National Digital Health Mission

National Digital Health Mission

The Central Government is preparing to launch the National Digital Health Mission at the national level. This mission was announced by Prime Minister Modi on the occasion of Independence Day 2020.

About National Digital Health Mission:

Under this, a digital platform has been made, in which 4 features will be launched - Health ID, Personal Health Record, Digi Doctor and Health Facility Registry. In the later stages, it will also include e-pharmacy and telemedicine, the guidelines of which are now being prepared. 

National Health Authority (NHA), the implementing agency of Ayushman Bharat has been prepared and it will be launched as an application and website.

For this, the Finance Ministry has allocated a maximum budget of 400 crores.

Linking to this platform will be voluntary, and registrations will be done through mobile application. 

The health information of the person can only be shared with the permission of the said person from another institution

About national health mission

What is National Health ID? 

National Health ID will be a database of all health information of an individual.

According to the National Health Authority (NHA), every patient who digitizes their health records need to create a Health ID. Health ID created using basic details of a person and mobile number or Aadhaar number. 

It will be a unique ID for every person who has an option to link all their health records with this ID. 

In the year 2018 Digital Health ID was proposed by NITI Aayog to take care and reduce the risk of medical errors. 

Gaganyaan Mission Of India

Gaganyaan Mission of India

Why in news? 

Larsen & Toubro Delivered Booster Segment (Booster for Rocket Engine) to ISRO for Gaganyaan Mission, which is the first hardware given for this mission. The company delivered it before the scheduled time.

Some important facts about Gaganyaan Mission

Gaganyaan is India's first man space mission.

This mission was announced by the Prime Minister of India on August 2018. 

GSLVMK-3 launch vehicle will be used to launch the Gaganyaan. 

A target has been set to complete the mission by the year 2022 and the cost of this mission is about Rs. 10,000 crore.

Gaganyaan will include a crew module, service module and orbital module, which weighs about 7 tons and will be sent by a rocket.

This spacecraft will be placed in a low earth orbit of 300-400 km. 

Two empty Gaganyaan missions will be sent before sending humans. 

Reserve Bank Innovation Hub

Reserve Bank Innovation Hub

Recently, Infosys co-founder, Chris Gopalakrishnan, has been appointed as the first President of the Reserve Bank Innovation Hub. 

What is Reserve Bank Innovation Hub? 

It aims to promote innovation in the financial sector. Through this, the work of establishing effective banking services and increasing financial inclusion will be done. In addition, this will also help in maintaining consistency to strengthen consumer protection mechanisms and trade in times of emergency. 

Earlier, a committee was formed by the Government of India headed by Infosys co-founder Chris Gopalakrishnan, this committee suggested that the exploitation of non-personal data generated in the country should be allowed by companies and institutions.

What is non-personal data? 

Non-personal data is a set of data that does not contain personally identifiable information. In simple words no person or living person can be identified by looking at such data.
The committee had also suggested the establishment of a new authority, which will be empowered to oversee such non-personal data mining.

Golden Jubilee Fellowship/ Swarna Jayanti Fellowshop Program

'Golden Jubilee Fellowship'

Recently 21 scientists have been selected by the Central Government for the 'Golden Jubilee Fellowship'. Among these scientists, professors working in higher educational institutions, scientists working in important government undertakings etc. are included. 

Objective of the program

The objective of this scheme is to provide necessary support to scientists for basic research in the field of science and technology.

About the scheme

'Swarna Jayanti Fellowship Scheme' was launched to commemorate the 50th year of India's independence.

Under this scheme, the selected scientists get Rs. 25,000 per month for 5 year by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India. The fellowship is provided in addition to the pay from their parent institutions. 

Also subsidies are provided for various devices, computational facilities, consumables, contingencies, national and for international travel and other special needs. 

Efforts and major schemes being conducted to promote research in India:

Prestigious Institution Scheme of Ministry of education will give boost to research work in higher educational institutions of the country. 

Through Imprint India higher educational institutions IITS / IIMs have been chosen to conduct research in various fields. 

India's gross expenditure in research and development increased nearly three times during 2008 to 2018.

National Super Computing Mission to increase technical capacity while to promote innovation programs like Atal Innovation Mission, Atal Tickering Lab have been started. 

East Asia Summit

East Asia Summit

Why in news? 

India was represented by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar at the East Asia Summit. In this summit the 'Hanoi Declaration' was adopted.

Important key points about this meeting:

The Foreign Minister has also agreed to to maintain sovereignty, integrity, respect international maritime laws in the South China Sea region of East Asia. 

The Hanoi Declaration was made in the year 2010, for the development of the region working with ASEAN countries. 

To pursue the Phnom Penh Declaration (2018-2022) at the meeting, the Manila plan of action emphasis was placed on effective implementation.

About East Asia Summit:

This is a forum of 18 regional leaders for cooperation on political, security and economic challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. It was established in 2005.

This summit 10 Asean countries and 8 other countries which are- Japan, China, Australia, India, New Zealand, South Korea, Russia and the United States

India is among the founding members of the East Asia Summit. 

List of Important Days for competitive exams

Important National and International Day/Dates for various competitive exams in India

1. Lewis Braille Day - January 4

2. World Comedy Day - January 10

3. National Youth Day - 12 January

4. Army Day - January 15

5. Leprosy Prevention Day - January 30

6. India Tourism Day - January 25

7. Republic Day - 26 January

8. International Customs and Excise Day - 26 January

9. Sarvodaya Day - January 30

10. Martyr's Day - January 30

11. World Cancer Day - January 4

12. Rose Day - February 12

13. Valentine's Day - February 14

14. International Mother Language Day - 21st February

15. Central Excise Day - 24th February

17. National Security Day - 4th March

18. International Women's Day - March 8

19. Establishment Day of K&S Force - 12th March

21. Ordnance Manufacturing Day - 18th March

22. World Forestry Day - March 21

23. World Water Day - March 22

24. Martyr's Day of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru - 23 days

25. World Meteorological Day - March 23

26. Rammanohar Lohia Jayanti - 23rd March

27. World TB Day - March 24

28. Rural Postal Life Insurance Day - 24th March

30. National Day of Bangladesh - March 26

31. World Theater Day - March 27

32. World Health Day - April 7

33. Ambedkar Jayanti - 14th April

35. World Hemophilia Day - April 17

36. World Heritage Day - April 18

37. Earth Day - April 22

38. World Book Day - April 23

39. World Labor Day - May 1

40. World Press Freedom Day - May 3

41. World Migratory Bird Day - May 8

42. World Red Cross Day - May 8

44. National Technology Day - May 11

45. World Museum Day - May 18

46. ​​World Nurses Day - 12 May

47. World Family Day - May 15

48. World Telecommunication Day - May 17

50. Biodiversity Day - 22 May

51. Mount Everest Day - May 29

52. World No Tobacco Day - 31 May

53. World Environment Day - 5 June

54. World Blood Donation Day - 14 June

55. International Olympic Committee Foundation Day - June 6

56. World Yoga Day - 21st June

57. National Statistics Day - 29 June

58. Birthday of PC Mahalanobis - June 29

60. Establishment day of State Bank of India - 1st July

61. Physician's Day - July 1

62. Birthday of Dr. Vidhan Chandra Rai - 1st July

63. World Population Day - July 11

64. Kargil Memorial Day - 26th July

65. World Breastfeeding Day - August 1

66. World Youth Day - August 12

67. Independence Day - 15th August

68. National Sports Day - August 29

69. Dhyanachandra's birthday - August 29

70. Teacher's Day - 5th September

71. International Literacy Day - September 8

73. World Brotherhood and Apology Day - September 14

74. Engineer's Day - 15th September

75. Accumulation Day - 15th September

76. Ozone Retention Day - September 16

77. Establishment day of RPF - September 20

78. World Peace Day - September 21

79. World Tourism Day - September 27

80. International Day of Older Persons - October 1

81. Lal Bahadur Shastri Jayanti - 2nd October

82. International Day of Non-Violence - October 2

83. World Nature Day - October 3

84. World Animal Welfare Day - October 4

85. World Teacher's Day - October 5

86. World Wildlife Day - 6 October

87. Air Force Day - October 8

88. World Postal Day - October 9

90. Jayaprakash Jayanti - 11 October

91. World Standards Day - October 14

93. World Food Day - 16 October

94. World Iodine Deficiency Day - October 21

95. United Nations Day - October 24

96. World Thrift Day - October 30

97. Indira Gandhi's Virtue Date - October 31

98. World Service Day - November 9

99. National Legal Literacy Day - 9th November

100. Children's Day - November 14

101. World Diabetes Day - November 14

101. International day for tolerance -  November 16

102. World Student Day - 17th November

103. National Journalism Day - 17 November

104. World Adult Day - November 18

105. World Citizens' Day - November 19

106. Universal Children's Day - November 20

107. World Television Day - November 21

108. World Meat Prohibition Day - November 25

109. World Environmental Protection Day - 26 November

110. Christmas Day - December 25

India will face recession according to RBI

According to the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), since independence in 1947, India has faced economic downturn four times in1958, 1966, 1973 and in 1980. The recession due to Covid 19 is the fifth economic downturn in the history of country.

How RBI predicted this recession?

The economic downturn is defined as a decline in sales, income and employment along with the country's economic activities.

Recessions in the history  of India

First Recession

The recession that India faced in 1957–58 was due to a balance of payments problem. This was mainly due to the weak monsoon, which severely affected agricultural production. In 1958, GDP growth was only -1.2%

 

Second Recession

India fought wars with China in 1962 and with Pakistan in 1965. Wars badly affected the economy and eventually the drought made the situation worst. They result in GDP growth rate as -3.6%.

Third Recession

In 1973, the world faced its first energy crisis. Arab oil producing countries banned oil exports to the countries that favored Israel. 414 of 1972, India's oil imports during this increased from USD414 million in 1972 to USD 900 million in 1973.GDP growth rate in 1973 was -0.32%.

Fourth Recession

The world saw the oil crisis for the second time in 1980. This was due to the decrease in oil production due to the Iranian revolution. This was further increased by the Iran-Iraq war that followed the revolution. This created a balance of payments crisis for India. The GDP growth rate in 1980 was -5.2%.

Fifth Recession

Recently the whole world has suffered the pandemic of Covid 19 which also affected the whole economy of the world. The economy of india was also affected with -23% GDP growth during the pandemic.

Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana

Why in news?

Recently a webinar was organized by TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Association). The title of this webinar was Van Dhan: Tribal Startups Bloom in India. During the webinar, it was reported that the scope of Van Dhan Yojana should be extended form the current 18,000 self-help groups to 50,000 self-help groups. This target is to be achieved through Van Dhan Start-up program

Prime Minister Van Dhan Yojana?

On April 14, 2018, this scheme was introduced during the Ambedkar Jayanti festival in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh by the Prime minister Narendra Modi.

Aims of Van Dhan Yojana

The scheme aims to produce livelihood for the tribes at non-timber small forest production (MFP), using real forest assets. For this, skill upgradation and capacity building training will also be provided  for value addition of forest production.

It aims to combine traditional knowledge and skills with the help of technology and IT is to be further enhanced.

Its main objective is to promote the To promote the livelihood development of MFP-focused tribal depositors and artisans.

Important facts about the scheme

10 lakh tribals have participated in the Van Dhan Start Up Scheme till now.

Under the Van Dhan Yojana, 1205 tribal enterprises have been set up so far.

China and 14 other countries signed on the biggest trade convention

15 countries including ASEAN countries and China have signed on the world's biggest trade agreement virtually on 15th November. Approx one-third economic activities of the world will come under this agreement. This agreement is seen as a big game-changer for China. Many Asian countries assume this will help boost their economy which was affected by the pandemic. 

About ASEAN 

The full form of ASEAN is the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. 

It is a regional association that was formed to control the political and social tensions between the Asian-Pacific countries.

List of 10 members of ASEAN

Malaysia

Philippines

Singapore

Cambodia

Thailand

Indonesia

Brunei

Vietnam

Myanmar

Laos

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

The State Bank of India (SBI) has recently published a report. This report states that  due to Covid 19, there has been a 60% increase in opening of new Jan Dhan accounts during the epidemic.

Important Key Points:

There has been an increase in the use of Jan Dhan accounts in the last few months, especially in those areas where there are more incidensts of theft.

Jan-Dhan accounts were also used extensively for remittances sent by migrant labourers.

What is Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana?

PMJDY is a national misssion for the financial inclusion which aims to provide financial facilities to all the  indians. To eliminate poverty from the country Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana was announced on 15 August 2014 and started form 28 august. This scheme plays an important an important role the financial inclusion in the country. This is the world's largest financial inclusion scheme.

Benifits of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

People will directly get the benifits of schemes in their bank account.

Beneficiaries will also get interest on their savings in the jan dhan account.

Government also provides accidental insurance of rs1 lac to all the account holders.

No minimum balance is required to open this account. i.e. its a zero balance account.

Free Rupay card is given to the account holder which can be used at any ATM without any annual maintance charge.

A life insurance of Rs 30000 is also provided with the account.

The money can be transferred in any part of the country.

In every family a woman will get overdraft facility to withdraw rs5000.

This scheme will help the small businesses to grow.

Subsidies will be directly trasferred to the account of beneficiary.

Features of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

Free insurance

Zero balance account.

Direct benifit transfer

Overdraft facility.

Rupay debit card

How to apply for  Jan Dhan Account

PMJDY account can be opened in any nationalised bank in india.

If an applicant face any problem the toll free number is 1800110001

Important facats about Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana:

This scheme was implemented in August 2014.

The mains objective of this scheme is Financial inclusion (expansion of banking services to every category).

According to the latest figures, the total number of Jan Dhan accounts as on 14 October 2020 is 41.05 crore.

This scheme registered a gunuess world record for opening highest number of bank accounts in a week (opened 18096130 accounts in a week between 23 to 29 august).

The Plasma Therapy used in the treatment of COVID-19

Plasma therapy

what is plasma therapy?

When a human comes in contact with a germ, the body makes antibodies to eliminate it. These antibodies are also found in plasma. When the patient recovers from the infection, these antibodies will remain in the plasma for some time. So in plasma therapy for Covid 19, blood plasma is transfused into the blood of a person infected with Covid-19 so the same antibodies can be developed and can recover from the virus easily.

What is blood plasma?

Blood plasma is some yellowish liquid  of  blood, in which blood cells of the whole blood are normally suspended. It accounts for about 60% of the total blood volume of the body. Most of it is water (90% by volume) and it contains proteins, sugars, clotting factors, mineral ions, hormones and carbon

Dioxide (the plasma, the principal means of removal of excretory products).

Process to eliminate plasma from blood

To separate the plasma from the blood, take fresh blood in a test tube and centrifuge it until

It should be rotated until the blood cells sit on the bottom of the tube, after that separate the remaining plasma over the blood. Fresh frozen plasma is on the WHO model's list of essential drugs, which is the most important medicines essential in basic health system. 

Uses of  Plasma Therapy

It is used to treat many types of trauma which causes blood loss.

Possibility of increased ability of infected person to fight Covid 19 with plasma therapy a few months ago was expressed. 

Pradhan Mantri Kusum Yojana Launched in India

Pradhan Mantri Kusum Yojana

Why in news? / current affair

Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) set a target to install total solar capacity of 36.8 GW by 2022 under PM-KUSUM scheme. Rs34,035 crore will be spent to achieve this goal. 

What is Pradhan Mantri-Kusum Yojana? 

The full form of KUSUM scheme is KISAN URJA  SURAKSHA UTTHAN MAHAABHIYAN. Prime Minister Farmer Energy Security and Regeneration( KUSUM) is launched by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), under which on the solarification of agricultural pump up to 60% of the grant is  to  be given.

-This scheme is being implemented by the departments of the state government, in which the farmers only have to submit 40% of the rest to the department.

-Another major component of the plan is to connect the decentralization of 10,000 MW of decentralized grids built above the ground with renewable power plants.

-The new target of the plan is to install a total solar capacity of 36.8 GW by 2022.

Benefits of the Kusum Yojana

- Farmers will be able to use the produced energy for irrigation needs and will be able to sell to additional produced energy power to the distribution companies. This will provide additional income to the farmers.

- This plan will reduce carbon dioxide and positively impact the atmosphere.

The implementation of the plan will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 27 million tonnes throughout the year.

- Solar agricultural pumps will save 1.2 billion liters of diesel every year. This will also save the foreign exchange spenton the import of crude oil. 

- This scheme has the potential to create direct employment opportunities. With the increase in self-employment this scheme creates 6.31 lakh new employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled workers.

First successful human trial of hyperloop has been done

First successful human trial of hyperloop technique

Virgin Hyperloop Company conducted the first successful human trial of Hyperloop in Las Vegas, USA. Indian-origin engineer Tanay Manjrekar working in Virgin Hyperloop also became the first Indian to sit in Hyperloop Pod during testing. 

What is Hyperloop Technique? 

Friction caused by air and land are the major impediments to the motion of an object vehicle, the hyperloop technique is

the idea of ​​achieving fast speed by adopting low frictions. Hyperloop is a low pressure, almost vacuum tube, in which a pod is operated in a linear electromagnetic path. This pod is raised above the ground, it also has solar panels. Vacuum in hyperloop tube air is pumped out through the pump. It can achieve speeds up to 1000 km/h. Famous entrepreneur Elon Musk first gave the idea of ​​hyperloop technique in the year 2013.

Benefits of the Hyperloop Technology

The transportation will be very fast. 

Energy consumption is very low. 

Pollution will decrease. 

There will be minimal weather impact on transport.

5th Scorpion submarine "Vagir" launched in India

5th Scorpion submarine "Vagir"

The Indian Navy launched the 5th Scorpion submarine "Vagir" at Mazgaon Dock, South Mumbai on 12 November 2020.

What is Wagir submarine? 

It includes submarine, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare,  mines laying, intelligence gathering and also able to carry out missions such as field monitoring.

Important facts about Wagir submarine

-Wagir is named after Sand Fish. This is deep-sea hunter fish in the Indian Ocean. 

- Vagir is a part of 6 Kalvari class submarines being built in India. 

-These submarines were designed by the French Navy and DCNS, an energy company. 6 submarines were made under the Project 75 of the Indian Navy. 

- The first Vagir submarine taken in the year 1973 was from Russia.

What is Project 75? 

- The aim of Project 75 is to create 6 Scorpion class attack submarines. These submarines were made in the Mazagon building Dock Ltd. by  the  technology of DCNS, a French company. 

-Under this project, the first Scorpion submarine Kalvari was commissioned in the year 2017. 

The second Scorpion class submarine commissioned under the project was the Scorpion Khanderi.

The third Scorpion-class submarine was INS Karanja.

INS Vella was the  Fourth Scorpion Submarine. 

The 5th Scorpion submarine INS Vagir is currently being inducted. INS VAGSHIRe is now also under construction.

What is the Scorpion class submarine? 

It is a diesel-electric submarine, which was jointly developed by French and Spanish company. The specialty of these submarines is that they have an additional air independent propulsion. So that, it can operate in deep sea without surface atmospheric oxygen.

Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)

Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)

Why in news? 

India and ASEAN countries despite exit from Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) are moving towards finding new ways to increase business.

What is Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)? 

It is a trade agreement between the member countries of ASEAN and the 6 countries that entered into Free Trade Agreements (FTAs) with ASEAN (A free trade agreement proposed between Australia, China, India, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand). The dialogue began in November 2012 at the ASEAN Summit in Cambodia.

Benefits of RCEP for India:

India's exports will increase to ASEAN countries. 

Investment in India is likely to increase.

It will help to connect India's small scale sector with the global market.

Some Challenges before India regarding to RCEP

India's trade deficit may increase.

Chinese products will gain entry in India, due to this local businesses will face problems. 

Stricter intellectual property laws will affect the indian trades. 

Important key points

It is remarkable that in the recent past, many farmers have protested against Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). 

These farmers say that trade agreement may become a threat to their rights over seeds and the livelihood of the people based on it . 

The dairy sector will be worst affected by this agreement.

All about Crew dragon spacecraft of Space X

Crew dragon spaceship

Space X's Crew Dragon Spacecraft will Fly from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida on November 14, 2020. This spacecraft crew will take 4 people for upto 6 months long mission to the International Space Station. 

Besides this, NASA certified its first of the Space X's Crew Dragon capsule and Falcon 9 rocket, Spacecraft certification is also provided. After this authentication, Space X will be able to operate regular flights service to international space. 

What is Space x? 

Space X is a private US space agency. It was founded on 6 May 2002 by renowned industrialist Elon Musk. Elon Musk is also the current CEO of Space X.

Objectives of Space X? 

The main objective of the establishment of this space agency is to reduce the cost of space transport.

Important key points

On 7 May 2020, it became the first private rocket company to send astronauts to space. 

This company sent Da Hurley and Bob Benken into the space. The spacecraft that takes international astronauts to the Space Station (ISS) is called Crew Dragon spacecraft. 

OTT services will be under Ministry of Information and Brodcasting

Announcement to bring video streaming services under the control of the Ministry

The central government recently announced that Video streaming services such as Hotstar over the top (OTT) platforms, such as online news portals, Netflix, Amazon Prime and Disney Hotstar will be under the control of Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

Why this announcement was done ? 

There are no specific rules or regulations to regulate any over the top (OTT) platform so far, however section 79 of the Information Technology Act, 2000 in video streaming services is applies to the providers.

There were 17 crore OTT platform users in India as of 7 March 2019, while the value of video streaming industry was Rs500 crore which is estimated to increase to Rs4000 crore by the year 2025.

Apart from this, many cases have been filed in the courts regarding the content lrovided on the OTT platforms. Therefore, it is necessary to bring these platforms under control in order to control the above situations.

What is Over the Top (OTT) platform? 

These platforms are used by consumers through the Internet. This includes 

Services like audio streaming, Video streaming, message service or Internet-based voice calling, etc.

These platforms are gaining popularity with short feature films, web-series. Netflix, Amazon Prime and Hotstar etc. are the main examples.

15th Finance Commission submitted it's reports

15th Finance Commission

15th Finance Commission under Chairman N. K. Singh has submitted reports from 2021-22 to 2025-2026 to the President, now the President will put it on the table of the Parliament and after that it will come in public domain. In this report on issues like tax distribution model among states for the next 5 years

recommendations will be included. The report has been finalized after consultations with institutions and multi-tiered institutions.

Composition of Finance Commission:

It's a constitutional body. It's formed in every 5 year under the article 280.This is done for the purpose of advising the government on financial matters.

There is a chairman and 4 members. The Chairman of the Finance Commission would be the person who has enough experience in 'Public Life'. 

Other members of the Finance Commission having the qualification of a HC Judge, a Finance and Accounts

Knowledgeable, a financial affairs experience and an economist.

Parliament has the power to make laws, rules for the selection of members of the Commission. For this  The Finance Commission Act 1951 was passed.

Functions of Finance Commission:

Under Article 280 (3), the Finance Commission makes its recommendations to the President on the following matters:

-Regarding the distribution of taxes between the Union and the States.

- Regarding the principles that determine grants-in-aid to the States from the Consolidated Fund of India.

-Regarding necessary measures for promotion from the State's Consolidated Fund for the fulfillment of resources of Panchayats and Municipalities in the State based on the recommendations of the State Finance Commission. 

-Regarding any other subject specified by the President to strengthen the financial position.

Other important facts about the Finance Commission

-The first Finance Commission was formed in the year 1951.

-Its first chairman was KC Niyogi.

-A total of 15 Finance Commissions have been constituted so far.

-The 15th Finance Commission was constituted in November 2017, headed by NK Singh (IAS). 

Full ban on firecrackers in New Delhi by National Green Tribunal (NGT)

Full ban on firecrackers in New Delhi by National Green Tribunal (NGT)

Sale and use of firecrackers in the National Capital Region by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has been completely banned. Ban on firecrackers in the National Capital Region starts from midnight on November 9 and will continue until midnight of 30 November.

In addition to this, the NGT has issued notices to 19 states and union territories. Air quality in these states is lower than the prescribed criteria.

Why this ban is required? 

Health experts have predicted an increase in infection of Covid 19 during winter, hence the high levels of pollution can cause serious health problems. Every year before Deepawali, burning of crop-waste/starch in New Delhi region are seen. This year also the central government will work with the states to deal with this problem.

National Green Tribunal and it's overview

-Constituted in the year 2010 by the Government notification under the National Green Tribunal Act 2010.

-It's president is a retired judge of Supreme Court or former Chief Justice of High Court. Apart from this, there are 20 experts and 20 judicial members. 

-It hears cases falling under 7 laws,  these are water pollution prevention law 1974, air pollution prevention law 1974, environmental protection law 1986, forest protection law 1980, Biodiversity Law 2002.

-The Forest Law 1927, the Wildlife Conservation Act 1972 and the Forest Rights Act 2006 are excluded from the jurisdiction of NGT. 

-The NGT has 5 offices - New Delhi, Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai.

The powers of National Green Tribunal(NGT) 

-May impose fine. 

-Can declare compensation.

-Can make policy suggestions for       environmental protection.

-May settle cases within 6 months.

-It has the same powers as a civil court.

What is OPEC Plus?

What is OPEC Plus (OPEC +)? 

Saudi Arabia recently reintroduced 'OPEC Plus' oil excavation agreements to balance the market. Followed by a rise in global crude oil prices has been seen. Which came to all time down due to the lockdown during the Covid 19 pandemic. 

About OPEC Plus:

This includes non-OPEC countries which export crude oil in this Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Mexico, Oman, Russia, South Sudan and Sudan.

About OPEC:

The Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) is a permanent, inter-governmental organization, formed on 10-14 September 1960 in a conference attended by Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela.

Currently it includes Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Libya, Nigeria, Gabon, Equatorial Guinea, Republic of Congo, Angola, Ecuador and Venezuela. 

OPEC Members in 2020

LIS OF MEMBER countries of OPEC 

Algeria

Angola

Equatorial Guinea

Gabon

Iran

Iraq

Kuwait

Ubya

Nigeria

Republic of congo

Saudi arabia

United Arab Emirates

Venezuela

Currently, the organization has 14 member countries. Initially until 5 years after OPEC came into existence, its headquarters was in Geneva (Switzerland), but in 1965 it was headquartered in Vienna, Austria.        Any country can become a member of OPEC who has sufficient quantities of oil, and will share the ideals of the organization. 

Aims and goals of OPEC

The aim of this organization is to secure fair and stable prices for petroleum producers,  an efficient, economical and regular supply of petroleum to the consumer nations. 

To promote coordination and integration of petroleum policies of member countries to ensure fair returns for those investing in the oil industry. 

Sarana code /Sarna Religion of Jharkhand

Sarana code

Jharkhand Legislative Assembly passed a resolution demanding 'Sarna Code' for tribals. This proposal was brought by the Chief Minister Hemant Soren. In this proposal, there has been a demand to create separate special columns for the tribals who follow the Sarna Dharma in the census of 2021. Now this offer

Will be sent to the central government.

About the Sarna Dharma/Religion

Adivasis who follow Sarna Dharma, worship nature, do not consider themselves Hindus. They are demanding special status for themselves from a very long time, it is noteworthy that at present Sarna Dharma is not given the status of religion. In the year 2011 also, the Scheduled Tribes Commission recommended the inclusion of the Sarna Code but it was not accepted.

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)

Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)

Interim measures in view of the ever increasing level of pollution in the Delhi-NCR region for the last few days

As the newly formed Air Quality Management Commission has sent the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) on air pollution

Implementation of measures under the Graded Response Action Plan - GRAP

The power of Significantly, the air quality situation in the New Delhi-NCR region for the sixth consecutive day. 

What is Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)? 

Thhis plan is prepared by EPCA to deal with the increasing levels of pollution, especially in Delhi-NCR. Under this, a certain response has been prescribed for each level of pollution, these are follows:

Instructions are issued to cleaning of roads, brick kilns, industries when air quality become moderate to Poor. 

Generators are banned when quality become very poor, parking fees are increased and the number of buses, metro is increased. 

When the air quality becomes severe, stone breakers, brick kilns are closed and the roads are closed and regular cleaning is done. 

In the event of severe to emergency, entry of trucks is banned in Delhi, construction works is stopped, programs like Odd-Even are implemented, and holidays are announced in the schools. 

About the Air Quality Management Commission:

It was established this year for air quality management in the National Capital Region and adjoining areas. The Commission was made under the Ordinance . 

It will be a permanent body and will have more than 20 members. It is headed by an officer of the rank of Secretary of government of India or Chief Secretary of the State Government. 

It will supersede the Central Pollution Control Board and the states of Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan Pollution Control Board.

It will have special jurisdiction on the areas of Haryana, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan in matters related to air pollution of this commission including the National Capital Region (NCR), and it will also work with CPCB and ISRO.

Roadmap of self-reliant (Aatmnirbhar) Madhya Pradesh 2023 launched

Roadmap of self-reliant (Aatmnirbhar) Madhya Pradesh 2023 launched

Roadmap of self-reliant Madhya Pradesh 2023 launched

Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chauhan on November 12, Launched Roadmap of 'self-reliant Madhya Pradesh 2023' through a virtual program. Special attention will be given to health and education in the state under this roadmap. 

Some important points about this Roadmap.

A network of hospitals will be established in the state focusing on the health sector.

Economy and employment will also be major focus areas and will inspired small and cottage industries.

Four seminars were held based on the physical infrastructure, good governance, health and education to prepare the roadmap. Based on input from experts in seminars, self reliant Madhya Pradesh

Roadmap has been prepared.

Chief Minister Rural Road Vendor Scheme

This scheme was also started in the seminars, under which Rs10,000 (Interested debtors) interest free loan will be provided to the street vendors from rural areas. 

The state government will bear the 14% interest on the behalf of beneficiary (for loans up to Rs 10,000).

National Food Security Act, 2013

National Food Security Act, 2003

Recently, 4.39 crore fake ration cards issued since 2013 have been canceled by the government to identify the right beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA). 

What is National Food Security Act? 

National Food Security Act was a historic initiative of the UPA-2 government, through which the public Nutritional food and nutritional security are being ensured.

Important key points about the national food security act, 2013

2 per kg Wheat and 3 rupees per kg rice will be provided to the poor people under the National Food Security Act, 2013. 

Kg Arrangements have been made to provide rice.

It covers 75% rural population and 50% urban population. 

35 kg food per family to the poorest families included in Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY). 

Month supply is maintained unchanged i.e. a fixed amount of food or grain is provided in a month. 

Under this law, there is a provision that the beneficiaries should get the food grains prescribed for them, in case of non-supply of food grains, the rule of payment of food security allowance provision has been made.

Right to Recall Members of Panchayati Raj Institutions in Haryana

Right to Recall Members of Panchayati Raj Institutions in Haryana (Right to Recall)

Recently, the Haryana Panchayati Raj (Second Amendment) Bill, 2020 was passed by the Haryana State Legislative  Assembly. 

In this bill, for recalling members of Panchayati Raj Institutions for electors

Right to Recall has been granted. The purpose of this amendment is to increase accountability for the voters of the panchayat members. 

 

Key Points:

In addition to Right to Recall in this bill, rural bodies provision of 50% reservation for women has also been provided. 

Apart from this, 8% reservation was provided to the more disadvantaged sections within the backward classes (OBCs).

To recall members and sarpanch of Panchayati Raj bodies, 50% of the members of Gram Sabha have to give it in writing.

After this, a secret ballot will be held, in which two-thirds of the voters cast their votes. He will be relieved if he votes against.

Joe Biden became the 46th president of America

 US Presidential Election Results 2020

Democrat candidate Mr. Joe Biden won the US Presidential Election of 2020 by Defeating President Donald Trump to became 46th president of the United States Of  America.

Important key Points about the US Presidential Election 2020.

Indian-American Kamala Harris became first female, first South Asian and first black vice president of America.

Joe Biden will become the oldest president he will join the office at age 78.

Biden got over 75 million votes which are the highest number of votes in the US Election history.

Current Foreign Exchange Reserve of India

Foreign exchange reserves of India

India's foreign exchange reserves has increased by $ 5.4 billion to reach $ 560.5 billion. It is the highest level of foreign exchange reserves in India till now. In the list of countries with the highest foreign exchange reserves in the world, India is at the 5th position, China is at the first place in this list.

What is Foreign Exchange Reserves? 

It is an asset kept by the Reserve Bank of India in the form of foreign currency, treasury bills. The Fund includes special withdrawal rights of International currency, gold reserves, assets derived from foreign investment, etc.

Reserve bank is its custodian and manager. It manages it according to the agreement with the government. Foreign exchange reserves support India's imports. More foreign exchange reserves

Makes rupee stronger against dollar. 

Current status of India's foreign exchange reserves:

Foreign Currency Assets (FCA): $ 517.524 billion

Gold Reserve: $ 36.860 billion

SDR with IMF: $ 1.487 billion

Reserve position with IMF: $ 4.661 billion

The main reasons for the increase in foreign exchange reserves of India:

Huge foreign investment in Reliance Jio. 

Stability in portfolio investment. 

Fall in global crude oil prices made imports cheaper. 

Increased gold prices led to an increase in the price of gold reserves. 

Evidence of dairy productsfound in Indus Valley Civilization

Evidence of dairy products in the Indus Valley Civilization

Indian and Canadian archaeologists have found that before 2500 BCE, dairy products were used by the Harappans. This study was conducted on the basis of molecular chemical analysis. 

Important key points:

Analysis of residues in pots found at Kotra Bhaldi in Gujarat yielded evidence of boiled milk.

Studies have shown that a large amount of milk was present. This indicates that there used to be milk trade between

Different towns.

About Indus Valley Civilization:

In the year 1920, the Archaeological Department of the British Government first excavated in the Indus Valley and Harappa and Mohenjodaro like two ancient cities were found. Thus, in the year 2020, 100 years of discovery Have been done in Indus Valley Civilization.

100% Tax exemption on electric vehicles in Tamil Nadu

Tax exemption on electric vehicles in Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu government has recently announced to provide 100% tax exemption for electric vehicles (EV) motor vehicle. Earlier, the state government had issued orders for a 50% concessional rate for EV taxes.

Important key points Key points

- The state government has provided tax exemption in both transport and non-transport vehicle categories.

- Govt. EV Manufacturing Units to Promote Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles in the State and also offers 100% GST reimbursement and 50% capital subsidy.

- In addition, there is a plan to set up an EV park in the state. This will be result in 1,50,000 jobs in the state.

- Currently there are 4.82 million two-wheelers and 1.71 million passengers in the state. 

- It accounts for 35% of the country's auto components production.

National Electric Mobility Mission (NEMM):

This mission was introduced in 2013 to promote hybrid and electric vehicles to ensure energy security. Under this mission , the government has targeted to keep 30% electrified vehicles by 2030.

 Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME). 

FAME scheme was launched in 2015, under the National Electric Mobility Mission (NEMM). Its main objective is to promote eco friendly vehicles in the country. It is operated by Ministry of Heavy Industries. It focuses on 4 areas - technology development, demand generation, pilot projects and infrastructure construction. Under this, subsidy was given for 10 lakh two-wheelers, 5 lakh auto-rickshaws, 55000 four wheelers and 7000 buses. 2700 charging stations will be set up in cities with a population of more than 10 lakh.

Note:

Many states in India are now focusing on electric vehicles. Delhi Government released Electric Vehicle policy  2020 in August 2020.

Second batch of Rafale fighters arrived in India

Second batch of Rafale fighters in india

The second batch of Rafale fighter jets reached India on 4 November, this batch consists of three fighter aircraft.

These fighter aircraft have been landed at the Jamnagar airbase of Gujarat.

Important key points about the second batch Rafael Fighter aircrafts in India

On 23 September 2016, India-France signed agreement to purchase 36 Rafale fighter jets from france. 

These aircrafts are manufactured by French company 'Dassault Aviation'.

The maximum speed of these aircraft is 2200 km per hour and they fly to a maximum height of 50,000 feet.

They have the ability to refuel in the air using the Probe & Drogue method.

Rafale aircraft have electronic warfare (EW) system, these 6 air to air missiles capable of trekking and carrying infra

 of red search. 

All 36 Rafale aircraft are proposed to be delivered to India by the end of 2021.

The total cost of these fighter aircraft will be around 159,000 crores.

5 Rafale aircraft were included in the first batch on 29 July, 3 single seats, while 2 double seats were plane aircraft. This Rafale aircraft is included in Air Force Squadron 17 (Golden Arrows) at Ambala. 

Paris Climate Agreement of 2020 and America's exit

Why in news? 

United States has become the first nation of the world who officially withdraws from the Paris Climate Agreement on November 4, 2020. 

However the United States can rejoin it if the President announces Joining, Democratic Party Presidential Candidate Joe Biden has spoken about joining it After Becoming President.

Some important key points About the Paris Climate Agreement:

The 21st Conference of Parties (COP 21) under the UNFCCC was first held in Paris in 2015.

It was agreed to keep global temperature below 2 degree Celsius before pre-industrialization level. It came into force from 4 November 2016.

In this conference, various countries including developing countries have also announced their INDCs to reduce carbon emissions.

Under the Marrakesh Action Plan adopted at COP 22 in 2016, after the Paris Agreement, Developed countries have also agreed to support an annual fund of $ 100 billion from 2020.

However, after Donald Trump became president, his government decided to separate America from it.

(After November 2020) It is important to note that America is the second largest producer of greenhouse gases. 

Any country can apply for separation from this agreement only after 3 years of its implementation. 

Thus, the United States applied for separation on 4 November 2019 and a year later separated automatically in November 2020.

PRASAD- Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Augmentation Drive

 What is Prasad Yojana? 

Union Minister of State for Tourism and Culture Prahlad Singh Patel Inaugurated  'Tourist Facilitation Center' at Guruvayur, Kerala. 

The center has been constructed under the Prasad Yojana of the Ministry of Tourism.

Around Rs, 45.36 crores has been allocated for the project related to the 'Tourist Facilitation Center' in Guruvayur.

Under this project, tourist facilities such as CCTV network infrastructure, multi-level car parking, and the components are manufactured.

Important key points About the Prasad Yojana:

The Union Ministry of Tourism for the protection of the shrine and spiritual development in the year 2014-2015 started  'Prasad' Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual Heritage Promotion Campaign Mission (PRASAD) Project, the scheme focuses on infrastructural development of pilgrimage sites.

The objective of this scheme is to develop infrastructures, such as last-mile connectivity, entry point, Eco-friendly transport, interpretation centers, ATM money exchanges other basic tourism facilities, etc.

This is different from the HRIDAY scheme.    The full form of HRIDAY is Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana. This aims to preserve and revive heritage cities.

Around 30 infrastructural development projects have been identified under the Prasad Yojana. In these Buddhist sites such as Ajanta and Ellora, Bodhgaya is also included.

Luhri river project launched in Himachal Pradesh

Luhri Hydroelectric Project

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved 1810.56 crore rupees Investment proposal  for the first phase of the 210 MW capacity Luhri Hydroelectric Project located at sutluj river in Kullu and Shimla district of Himachal Pradesh. 

The project will generate 758.20 million power units per year.

Important Key Points about the Luhri Project

This project is based on Ownership-Operations-Maintenance (Build-on-Operate-Maintenance-BYOM) being implemented by Sutlej Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited.

This project will help in grid stability and power supply will be improved. 

The time period of this project is 40 years and this gives Himachal Pradesh free electricity of value of Rs 1140 crores.

100 units of free electricity every month for next 10 years to be provided to the families affected by this project.

 

Project Lion Started In India on 15th august

Project lion of India

6 new rehabilitation sites have been identified in addition to the Kuno-Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary under the 'Project Lion'. 

It is noteworthy that the announcement of this project was made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on August 15, 2020

The list of 6 new rehabilitation sites which are identified 

Madhav National Park, Madhya Pradesh

Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan

Mukundra Hills Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan

Gandhi Sagar Wildlife Sanctuary, Madhya Pradesh

Kumbhalgarh Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajasthan

Jessore-Balaram Ambaji Wildlife Sanctuary and Nearby Areas, Gujarat

Why the lions need to be rehabilitated:

The genetic diversity in the population of organisms in Gir is very low, due to which the organisms in this region epidemic outbreaks are high.

In the yaer 2013 It was orderedby the supreme court that the Asiatic lions will be transferred to the koono-Palpur wildlife sanctuary.

About the Asiatic Lion:

Asiatic lions are currently in protected areas of the agro-pastoral landscape of Saurashtra, Gujarat. The scientific name of the Asiatic lion is Panthera Leo Persica. Asiatic lion is under list of the  IUCN red list. The red list is listed under the crisis category. The population of the Asiatic lion has increased by 29%. It was 523 in 2015 and has increased to 674 in 2020.