January 2020 National Affairs

• Nation celebrates 71st Republic Day with patriotic fervour
  Nation celebrated the 71st Republic Day with a grand military parade and exhibition of its history, cultural diversity and strategic weaponry at the Rajpath in the National Capital.
  
  President Ram NathKovind unfurled the tricolour and took the salute of the parade. President of Brazil Jair Messias Bolsonaro was the Chief Guest at the Parade this year.
  
  The Republic Day ceremony commenced with Prime Minister Narendra Modi paying homage to martyrs at the National War Memorial instead of Amar Jawan Jyoti. The National Flag was unfurled followed by the National Anthem with a booming 21-gun salute.
  
  For the first time, a contingent of women bikers of CRPF performed daredevil stunts. Sixteen states and Union Territories and six Central Ministries participated in the Parade.
  
  Jammu and Kashmir participated in the parade for the first time as a Union Territory.
  
  Start-up India, Jal Jeevan Mission and financial inclusion were some of the themes of the tableaux of Ministries and Departments.
  
  The major attraction was fly-past by the newly inducted Chinook and Apache helicopters along with Sukhoi and advanced light helicopters. Anti-satellite weapon - Mission Shakti, Army’s battle tank Bhishma were also showcased during the 90-minute long parade.
  
  
• Cabinet committee approves the closure of Hindustan Fluorocarbons plant in Telangana
  The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, CCEA approved shutting down the operations of the plant and unit of Hindustan Fluorocarbons Limited, HFL and closure of the company.
  
  HFL is a Central Public Sector Enterprise under Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals. HFL has only one plant located at Rudraram, District Sanga reddy in Telangana.
  
  Government granted interest free loan of over 77 crore rupees to HFL for expenditure exclusively on closure.
  
  
• Tribal Affairs Ministry proposes 6th Schedule Area status to Ladakh
  Union Tribal Affairs Ministry has proposed 6th Schedule Area status to Union Territory of Ladakh.
  
  The ministry has sent the proposal to the Union Home Ministry to declare the 6th Schedule status to Ladakh.
  
  Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda also assured that his ministry will take all necessary measures to preserve and enrich the rich legacy of Ladakh.
  
  Environmentalist Sonam Wangchuk had last month appealed Prime Minister Narendra Modi to preserve the culture and identity of Ladakh.
  
  
• Agreement with Bru-Reang community in North East, symbolises spirit of cooperative federalism: PM
  The Prime Minister said, the new decade of 2020, has brought a new ray of hope in the life of the Bru-Reang community. He was referring to the agreement which has ended the 25 year old problem of Bru-Reang refugee crisis.
  
  Around 34 thousand Bru refugees will be rehabilitated in Tripura and government will provide an assistance of around 600 crore rupees for rehabilitation and all-round development.
  
  With this, they will now be able to garner the benefit of public welfare schemes.
  
  
• Coronavirus: Government launches 24X7 call centre
  Seven central teams will visit states and designated airports to review the end-to-end preparedness for management and control of Novel Coronavirus in India. These airports are New Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Kochi.
  
  The team will consist of a public health expert, a clinician and a microbiologist.
  
  The team will also visit the tertiary hospitals attached to the airports for reviewing the isolation wards and availability of Personal Protective Equipment and masks. The team will coordinate with the State Health Secretaries to explore all avenues for further supporting and strengthening the states’ preparedness.
  
  A 24x7 National Centre for Disease Control Call Centre - 011 -23978046 has been made operational.
  
  The Call Centre will monitor the list of contacts furnished by the Ministry of External Affairs, provide details of district and state surveillance officers and in case of any clinical query, direct the concerned to the relevant Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme officer.
  
  No Novel Coronavirus case has been detected in the country so far. However, eleven persons have been put under observation.
  
  
• Govt. to sell 100 percent stake in debt-laden Air India
  The government announced the sale of 100 percent stake in debt-laden Air India. Issuing the preliminary bid document for the strategic disinvestment, the government has set March 17, as the deadline for submitting an expression of interest.
  
  As part of the strategic disinvestment, Air India would also sell 100 percent stake in low-cost airline Air India Express and 50 percent shareholding in joint venture AISATS. Management control of the airline would also be transferred to the successful bidder.
  
  The successful bidder will continue to use the Air India brand.
  
  
• SC seeks centre's response on plea challenging constitutional validity of CAA, NPR
  The Supreme Court sought the Centre's response on a plea challenging the Constitutional validity of the Citizenship Amendment Act and updation of the National Population Register (NPR).
  
  A bench, comprising Chief Justice S A Bobde and Justices B R Gavai and Surya Kant, issued notice to the Centre on the PIL which also challenged the rules made in 2003 for registration of citizens and issuance of National Identity Cards.
  
  The NPR updation is arbitrary as it puts citizens, non-citizens and persons seeking overseas citizenship at par asking the same information from the entire population residing within the country.
  
  The plea also said that the exercise of NPR assumes that people in India are not its citizens and shifts the onus of proving citizenship on the person itself.
  
  
• Centre & Assam govt to provide 1,500 crore rupees assistance for economic development of community under agreement
  The Centre today signed an accord with the Assam-based different insurgent groups and civil societies including the National Democratic Front of Bodoland.
  
  The tripartite agreement was signed in the presence of Union Home Minister Amit Shah and Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal.
  
  The accord will provide political, economic, executive and land rights to Bodotribals and also will safeguard their cultural and linguistic identities. The Centre and State Government will provide financial assistance of 1,500 crore rupees for the economic development of the community.
  
  This agreement will maintain the territorial integrity of Assam and will also provide an opportunity for the holistic development of the Bodo community.
  
  A commission will be appointed under the Sixth Schedule after the agreement. The commission will include representatives of State Government and other stakeholders. It will submit its recommendations within six months from the date of notification.
  
  It is the third tripartite agreement to end the violence in the region. Earlier, the tripartite agreements in 1993 and 2003 were signed leading to the creation of Bodoland Autonomous and Bodoland Territorial Councils. All Bodo Student Union and its associated organizations and different factions of the National Democratic Front of Bodoland had been raising the demand for separate statehood. Negotiations were held with Bodo organizations for a comprehensive and final solution to their demands while keeping intact the territorial integrity of Assam.
  
  
• JPC on Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019 invites suggestions
  The Personal Data Protection Bill, 2019 as introduced in LokSabha has been referred to a Joint Parliamentary Committee of both Houses headed by LokSabha Member Meenakashi Lekhi for examination and report.
  
  The committee has decided to seek views and suggestions on the bill from individuals and association or bodies concerned. The bill has been uploaded on the LokSabha website.
  
  The memoranda submitted to the committee would form part of the records of the committee and would be treated as confidential and would enjoy privilege of the committee.
  
  Those who wish to appear before the committee, besides submitting memoranda have been requested to specifically indicate it. However, the committee's decision in this regard will be final.
  
  
• Andhra Pradesh assembly adopts resolution to abolish Legislative Council
  The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet today passed a resolution setting in motion the process for abolishing the state Legislative Council. A similar resolution will now be adopted in the Legislative Assembly and sent to the Centre for necessary follow-up action.
  
  With just nine members, the ruling YSR Congress is in minority in the 58-member Legislative Council.
  
  The opposition Telugu Desam Party has an upper hand with 28 members and ruling party could get a majority in the House only in 2021.
  
  The move by the Andhra Pradesh cabinet came after the Jaganmohan Reddy government last week failed to pass in Upper House of the state legislature two crucial Bills related to its plan of having three capitals for the state.
  
  
• Five-day Ganga Yatra begins to promote bio-diversity
  The five day Ganga Yatra was started with an aim to create awareness about the holy river started in Uttar Pradesh.
  
  Flagging off the Yatra in Ballia, State Governor Anandiben Patel said that those who are living close to this holy river are fortunate people.
  
  
• PM Modi to address 3rd Global Potato Conclave in Gujarat
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address the 3rd Global Potato Conclave at Gandhinagar, Gujarat through video conferencing.
  
  Mr Modi is expected to take an overall view of the achievements and opportunities in the area of potato research, trade and industry and value chain management and set a road map for the decade.
  
  
• France will be guest of honour at New Delhi World Book Fair 2022
  France will be the guest of honour at the New Delhi World Book Fair in January 2022, announced France Ambassador to India, Emmanuel Lenain as part of a reciprocal invitation as New Delhi is the guest of honour this year at Livre Paris (Paris Book Fair).
  
  Leading and emerging Indian authors will be invited to Paris to meet readers, while publishing industry professionals will enhance cooperation between France and India in this area during networking events.
  
  
• India’s first war memorial dedicated to service animals is coming up in Meerut
  A war memorial that is being planned in Meerut is set to feature a heroine who lost her life in a counter-insurgency operation in Kashmir in 2016.
  
  It is also likely to feature some others who acquitted themselves creditably in the Kargil war that India fought with Pakistan in 1999.
  
  
• Speaker Om Birla writes to EU Parliament; calls anti-CAA resolution 'inappropriate'
  LokSabha Speaker Om Birla has written to European Parliament President David Maria Sassoli over the resolutions moved against the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) in that legislature, saying it is inappropriate for one legislature to pass judgement on another and the practice can be misused by vested interests.
  
  Mr Birla also asserted that as Members of the Inter- Parliamentary Union, sovereign processes of fellow legislatures should be respected.
  
  The act provides for easier citizenship to those who have been subjected to religious persecution in our immediate neighbourhood and it is not aimed at taking away citizenship from anybody. He added that the legislation was passed after due deliberation by both houses of the Indian Parliament.
  
  The Speaker's letter to Sassoli comes after some lawmakers in the 751-member European Parliament moved six resolutions against the CAA.
  
  
• Cabinet approves Medical Termination of Pregnancy Amendment Bill
  Union Cabinet has approved the Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2020. The bill will amend the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971.
  
  It will be introduced in the budget session of the Parliament.
  
  For Medical termination of pregnancy, permission will be needed, from two doctors and one of them must be a government doctor. The limit of termination of pregnancy has been increased from 20 weeks to 24 weeks.
  
  The Bill proposes for requirement for opinion of one provider for termination of pregnancy up to 20 weeks of gestation and introducing the requirement of opinion of two providers for termination of pregnancy of 20-24 weeks of gestation.
  
  The Bill is for expanding access of women to safe and legal abortion services on therapeutic, eugenic, humanitarian or social grounds. The proposed amendment is a step towards safety and well-being of the women and many women will be benefitted by this. Recently several petitions were received by the Courts seeking permission for aborting pregnancies at a gestational age beyond the present permissible limit on grounds of foetal abnormalities or pregnancies due to sexual violence faced by women. The proposed increase in gestational age will ensure dignity, autonomy, confidentiality and justice for women who need to terminate pregnancy.
  
  
• Cabinet approves 30 per cent of North-Eastern Council's allocation for new projects
  Union Cabinet has approved allocation of 30 per cent of the North-Eastern Council's allocation for new projects. This will help in focused development of deprived areas, neglected sections of society and emerging priority sectors.
  
  The Cabinet has also approved extension of Productivity-Linked Reward Scheme for the employees and workers of the Major Port Trust and Dock Labour Board for the period beyond 2017-18.
  
  The Scheme will annually benefit over 28 thousand workers. The annual estimated outgo will be 46 crore rupees.
  
  
• Government gives nod to amendments in National Commission for Homoeopathy Bill, 2019
  The Union Cabinet has approved the amendments in the National Commission for Homoeopathy Bill, 2019 for amending the Homoeopathy Central Council Act, 1973. Presently, the Bill is pending in Rajya Sabha.
  
  The amendments will ensure necessary regulatory reforms in the field of Homoeopathy education. This will also enable transparency and accountability for protecting the interest of the general public. The National Commission will promote the availability of affordable healthcare services in all parts of the country.
  
  
• Indian Navy launches operation 'Vanilla' to provide disaster relief at Madagascar
  Indian Navy has launched operation Vanilla to provide humanitarian assistance and disaster relief at Madagascar. Defence Ministry said, the Operation Vanilla has been launched to provide assistance to the affected population of Madagascar post devastation caused by Cyclone Diane.
  
  During the port call, the ship, in coordination with Embassy of India and Government of Madagascar is planned to undertake relief operations to provide succour to the flood affected populace. The Indian Navy Ship is geared to set up medical camp and provide food, water and other necessary relief material.
  
  The situation is being monitored and the Indian Navy is prepared to render all necessary assistance to the local population in Madagascar.
  
  
• Government focusing to drive industrialization through power of seas
  Government is focusing to drive industrialization through the power of seas. It has launched ambitious Sagarmala programme which is aimed reducing logistics cost for both domestic and EXIM cargo with optimized infrastructure investment.
  
  Under the Sagarmala programme, Center is implementing 12 road projects worth 2387 crore rupees. Out of these, three projects are completed and six are in the pipeline. The work on 25 rail projects amounting to 2268 crore rupees is also in progress.
  
  Of these, 11 projects are completed and six are in the pipeline. Besides, 24 rail connectivity projects worth 3303 crore rupees are being implemented by the Indian Port Rail and Ropeway Corporation Limited.
  
  The government is also developing 11 multi modal logistics park across the country to boost the port led development.
  
  
• Martyrs Day: Nation pays homage to Mahatma Gandhi on his 72nd death anniversary
  On 30th January, India observes Martyrs' Day every year, to pay homage to honor the sacrifices made by Mahatma Gandhi and countless other brave Indians. This year India is observing the 72nd death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
  
  On January 30, 1948, Mahatma Gandhi was assassinated by Nathuram Godse in Birla House.
  
  On the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, leaders including- President, Vice President, Prime Minister, Defence Minister, CDS and the three Service Chiefs of India pay homage to the Father of nation and all the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the
  
  Mahatma Gandhi’s life and message of peace and non-violence are relevant for all times and find resonance in every part of the world.
  
  Through the philosophy of Ahimsa, Satyagraha and Non-Cooperation, Gandhiji galvanized masses and spearheaded the national movement.
  
  Building a New India that will be free from hunger, poverty, all types of discrimination, corruption and inculcates the spirit of service among the younger generation are few ways to pay tributes to Mahatma Gandhi.
  
  
• Nine Judge Constitution Bench of SC to frame issues about discrimination against women in various religions
  The Supreme Court on 28th January, 2020 said that its 9-judge Constitution bench will on February 3 frame issues for deliberation in the matter relating to discrimination against women in various religions and at religious places including Kerala's Sabarimala Temple.
  
  It said, the Constitution bench will consider issues related to the entry of Muslim women into mosques, female genital mutilation in the Dawoodi Bohra Muslim community and barring of Parsi women, married to non-Parsi men, from the holy fireplace at Agiary.
  
  A 3-judge bench, headed by Chief Justice S A Bobde said, the 9-judge bench will go through the issues framed by some arguing lawyers and would try to crystallize the common legal questions to be adjudicated upon by it.
  
  
• Government aims to achieve objective of Housing for All by 2022 under PMAY-G
  Union Government aims to achieve objective of Housing for All by 2022 under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin.
  
  A total of over one crore 50 lakh rural houses have been completed in the last five years.
  
  Ministry of Finance said, the eligible beneficiaries will get one crore 95 lakh houses in the second phase of the scheme. Government has set a target of 60 lakh houses for the current financial year.
  
  
• ISRO announces it is preparing low-cost satellite launch vehicles
  The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced that it is preparing low-cost satellite launch vehicles costing around 30-35 crores rupees each, which can put into orbit satellites weighing 500 kgs.
  
  The first such launch is expected to take place in the next four months from the country.
  
  This capability will give ISRO a big commercial boost as it will be able to cater to micro, mini and medium segments of the market.
  
  ISRO has earmarked 1,600 million Dollars for launch vehicles of which 870 million Dollars will be for PSLV and the remaining for GSLV.
  
  
• Nationwide programme to administer polio drops to children organized on National Immunization Day
  The National immunization day was observed on Jan 19th 2020. With an aim to maintain the 'NO POLIO' status, a nationwide programme to administer polio drops to children below 5 years was organized throughout the country.
  
  President Ram Nath Kovind launched the Pulse Polio Programme for this year by administering Polio drops to children below the age of five at Rashtrapati Bhavan
  
  Around 82,000 children were administered polio drops through 452 centres throughout the union territory.
  
  
• Cold wave conditions persist in most parts of north India
  Cold wave conditions have continued to sweep North India. National Capital Delhi recorded a minimum temperature of 7 degrees Celsius, a notch below normal. The maximum temperature is expected to hover around 17 degrees Celsius.
  
  The weatherman has forecast mainly clear sky and shallow fog later in the day. Met Department has said that the city may receive light rain on Tuesday due to a fresh western disturbance.
  
  In Uttarakhand, many high altitude areas are covered with snow. Road connectivity, water and electric supply along with telephone networks are affected in remote areas. However, a sunny day was witnessed in major parts of the state.
  
  In Himachal Pradesh, Shimla has received light snowfall while some parts of the state received light rain. Several tourist hotspots, including Manali, Kufri and Dalhousie, shivered at sub-zero temperatures.
  
  In the Kashmir Valley and Ladakh, sub-zero minimum temperatures led to frost formation on roads, causing inconvenience to motorists.
  
  In most parts of Punjab and Haryana, a thick blanket of fog reduced visibility in the morning at a few places. In Punjab, Amritsar was the coldest place with a minimum temperature of 3.6 degrees Celsius.
  
  In Rajasthan, cold weather conditions have continued with Ganganagar being the coldest place in the state at 3.7 degrees Celsius.
  
  
• Face recognition app to be used in Telangana Municipal polls on pilot basis
  In a first in India, the Telangana State Election Commission will be using facial recognition app in a bid to counter impersonation by voters. This will be done on a pilot basis in 10 selected polling stations in Kompally Municipality of Medchal Malkajgiri district.
  
  According to an official release, a negative result, however, would not deprive the voter from exercising his franchise. Pictorial data collected during the process will also be d afterwards.
  
  Polling for 120 municipalities and nine municipal corporations will be held on January 22nd and results declared on January 25th.
  
  Karimnagar Municipal Corporation, however, will go for polls on January 25th and results will be declared on the 27th. All stakeholders including political parties and polling staff would be sensitised on the new initiative.
  
  
• SC refuses to stay operation of CAA; asks centre to file reply within 4 weeks
  Supreme Court has refused to stay the operation of Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA). A bench headed by Chief Justice SA Bobde said that it cannot grant any stay on CAA without hearing Centre. The apex court asked the Centre to file its reply within 4 weeks on petitions challenging the CAA. The apex court also said that it will constitute a larger constitution bench to hear the matter. Appearing for the Centre, Attorney General KK Venugopal said that the government has been given copies of around 60 petitions out of the 143 and it needs time to respond to pleas which have not been served on it. Some of the petitioners urged the apex court to put on hold operation of CAA and postpone exercise of National Population Register (NPR) for time being.
  
  The CAA seeks to grant citizenship to migrants belonging to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Christian, Jain and Parsi communities who came to the country from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan on or before December 31, 2014.
  
  President Ram Nath Kovind gave assent to the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019 on December 12, turning it into an Act.
  
  
• Srinagar entered the list of Open Defecation Free cities
  Srinagar entered the list of Open Defecation Free (ODF) cities. The announcement was made by Mayor of Srinagar Junaid Azim Mattu.
  
  Srinagar received its Swachhata Certificate from the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Government of India. Also, Srinagar has achieved the 45th rank in Cleanest Cities in the country.
  
  The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs issues this certificate to cities in the country.
  
  Swachh Bharat Abhiyan:
  • Swachh Bharat Abhiyan or the Clean India Mission was introduced as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi on October 2 in 2014.
  • The Swachh Bharat Abhiyan meant to make India the Open Defecation Free (ODF) by 2019. It ensures to provide sanitation facilities to all.
  • The campaign was completed by 2 October 2019 to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
  
  
  
• Maharashtra to make Marathi mandate in all schools in the state
  The Maharashtra government is to make it mandatory to teach the Marathi language in all schools in the state irrespective of mediums of instructions.
  
  The announcement was made by the Industries Minister Subhash Desai on 21 January during an interaction organized by the 'Mumbai Marathi Patrakar Sangh'.
  
  The government will enact a law during the next Assembly session in February 2020. The draft bill in this connection is being prepared.
  
  Marathi language-Mandatory:
  • The Maharashtra government is to frame a law in next month's Assembly session.
  • The state is to make it mandatory to teach the Marathi language from Class 1 to Class 10 in all schools irrespective of media of all instructions.
  • There are 25,000 English medium schools in the state and the number is increasing.
  • The government aims to carry out all its business in Marathi.
  • It also stated that files without notings in the state language will not be accepted.
  
  
  
• Agriculture Ministry organized National consultative workshop
  The Ministry for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare organized the first National consultative workshop on Strengthening Agri-Logistics in the e-National Agriculture Market (e-Nam) in New Delhi on 21 January 2020.
  
  The workshop was inaugurated by the Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Narendra Singh Tomar
  
  Aim:
  The workshop aimed to strengthen agriculture and the rural economy as it will strengthen India to face challenges victoriously. The workshop is in line with the Prime Minister's vision of doubling farmers' income by 2022.
  
  Highlights:
  
  • The participants discussed the greatest challenges faced during providing farmers the correct price for their produce.
  • Discussion included introducing ways to strengthen the economy and infrastructure of rural areas so that every facility is available to villagers at their door-step.
  • The workshop shared the output of the PM-Kisan Samman Yojana, MaN-Dhan Yojana, PM-Fasal Bima Yojana, which showed good results.
  
  Participants: Delegations including Union Minister of State for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Shri Purushottam Rupala and Agriculture Secretary Shri Sanjay Aggrawal were present in the workshop. The National Consultative Workshop witnessed the participation of more than 200 prominent professionals, educationists, practitioners of Agri-Logistics, Cleaning, quality management, Grading, productivity analysis, warehousing and transportation, and logistics start-ups and senior officials from various states across India.
  
  e-Nam:
  Electronic National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is an electronic trading portal that creates a unified national market for agricultural commodities. It was established on 14 April 2016. e-NAM functions under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, Government of India.
  
  
• UP government to provide financial assistance under Mukhyamantri Krishak Durghatna Kalyan Yojana
  Uttar Pradesh state Government has launched Mukhyamantri Krishak Durghatna Kalyan Yojana.
  
  The scheme was launched after the cabinet meeting which was held on 21 January 2020. The announcement was made by the UP Power Minister Shrikant Sharma.
  
  The government also announced that it is to implement Mukhyamantri Paryatan Samvardhan Yojana.
  
  Mukhyamantri Krishak Durghatna Kalyan Yojana:
  • The scheme will provide financial assistance of Rs.5 lakh to the family of farmers who die or become handicapped while working in fields.
  • The scheme also includes Bataidars for the first time.
  • The scheme will cover farmers and their family members in the age group of 18-70 years.
  • The scheme was implemented on 14 September 2019 in the state.
  
  
  
• Government has set target of providing house to all poor households, before 75th Independence Day
  Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Arjun Munda has said that advancement of education; health and employment sectors are main focus areas of Central Government's development plan.
  
  He was speaking at a Public Outreach Programme meeting held at Talwara in block Pouni of Reasi district in Jammu Division.
  
  During his visit to the mountainous district, he sought full involvement of local administration in meeting the targets of Central schemes.
  
  
• Defence Acquisition Council approves procurement of over Rs.5100 crore worth indigenous equipment
  Defence Acquisition Council, DAC has approved procurement of equipment worth over five thousand 100 crore rupees from indigenous sources to promote indigenisation.
  
  These include sophisticated Electronic Warfare Systems for the Army designed by Defence Research and Development Organisation, DRDO and manufactured locally by the Indian industry.
  
  These systems will be used in deserts and plains and will provide comprehensive Electronic Support and Counter Measure capabilities to the field formations in both communication and other aspects of Electronic Warfare.
  
  
• National Girl Child Day to be celebrated on January 24
  National Girl Child Day will be celebrated on 24 January in Madhya Pradesh on the theme of “Aware girl child-able Madhya Pradesh" (JagrukBalika-Samarth Madhya Pradesh) under the "BetiBachao-BetiPadhao" scheme.
  
  During this, health of girls will be examined. Gender champions at the local level will also be selected.
  
  
• Cabinet approves over Rs 4300 crore to establish permanent campuses for new NITs
  Union Cabinet on 22 January, 2020 approved to Revised Cost Estimates for establishment of permanent campuses of new National Institutes of Technology, NITs, at a total cost of 4371.90 crore rupees for the period till 2021-2022. NITs were established in the year 2009 and started functioning from academic year 2010-2011 in their temporary campus with very limited space and infrastructure. These NITs will be fully functional from their permanent campuses by 31st March, 2022.
  
  It also approved the extension of tenure of the Commission constituted under Article 340 of the Constitution, to examine the issue of sub-categorization within Other Backward Classes in the Central List. Union Minister Prakash Javadekar said, the tenure has been extended by six months till 31st July, 2020.
  
  Cabinet has also granted approval to addition of Term of Reference to the existing ToR of the Commission which include studying various Entries in the Central List of OBCs and recommending correction of any repetitions, ambiguities, inconsistencies and errors of spelling or tranion. Mr Javadekar said, Daman will be the capital of newly carved out Union Territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.
  
  
• IRCTC to pay compensation of Rs 100 each to 630 passengers of Tejas Express
  Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) has said that it will pay a compensation of 100 rupees each to around 630 passengers of the Ahmedabad-Mumbai Tejas Express because of a delay.
  
  The Express, the second IRCTC-run train which commenced commercial operations from January 19, was delayed for over an hour on Wednesday afternoon as it was entering Mumbai. The train reached the Mumbai Central station around 1 hour and 30 minutes late. The IRCTC spokesperson said the passengers will have to apply as per the refund policy. They will be given refund after verification.
  
  According to railway officials, the premium train departed from Ahmedabad at 6.42 am, two minutes late. But it arrived at Mumbai Central at 2.36 pm instead of the scheduled time of 1.10 pm. The Tejas Express and a few other suburban and outstation trains were held up due to a technical problem on the outskirts of Mumbai. The IRCTC spokesperson said that as the train was delayed, around 630 passengers who traveled upto Mumbai Central will be given compensation.
  
  
• India’s first e-waste clinic opens in Bhopal
  Country’s first e-waste clinic is being opened in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
  
  It would enable segregation, processing and disposal of waste from both household and commercial units.
  
  The e-waste clinic will be inaugurated by the Union Environment Secretary in a short while now.
  
  The Chairman of the Central Pollution Control Board will also grace the occasion.
  
  The e-waste clinic is jointly setting up by the Central Pollution Control Board-CPCB and Bhopal Municipal Corporation-BMC.
  
  
• ECI to host 10th Annual Meeting of Forum of Election Management Bodies of South Asia
  Election Commission of India (ECI) will host the 10th Annual Meeting of the Forum of the Election Management Bodies of South Asia (FEMBoSA) in New Delhi.
  
  Election Commission of India will take over the Chair of the forum for the year 2020.
  
  On the occasion, International Conference on the theme ‘Strengthening Institutional Capacity’ is also being organized.
  
  ECI will also renew Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for cooperation in the field of election management with the Independent Election Commission of Afghanistan.
  
  
• National Girl Child Day being celebrated across country
  The National Girl Child Day is being celebrated across the country.
  
  It was started by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development on 24th January 2008 with the purpose to spread awareness among people about all the inequalities girls face in the Indian society.
  
  
• Gujarat replaces West Bengal to top ‘Star States’ ranking
  Gujarat has topped the SKOCH State of Governance 2019 ranking, replacing 2018 leader West Bengal.
  
  Gujarat, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu were the top five "Star States".
  
  "The states where projects have performed the best in terms of rankings across different parameters have been classified as STARS", the report added.
  
  
• Madhya Pradesh government made the reading of Preamble of Constitution mandatory in schools
  In Madhya Pradesh, state government has made the reading of Preamble of the Constitution mandatory in schools on every Saturday. The Department of School Education stated that orders in this regard have been issued to District Education Officers.
  
  The order issued by the School Education department said that the Preamble to the Constitution will be read out by the headmaster or teacher in all the schools after prayer on every Saturday. The same will be read out by the students later.
  
  State BJP called this practice as a political gimmick. Party spokesperson Rajneesh Agrawal said to the media that the Congress always tried to weaken the Constitution with its anti-democratic decisions.
  
  
• Dappu artists buoyed over receiving ID cards
  Dappu artists have finally received their identity cards from the district administration in Kurnool. District collector G. Veerapandian distributed identity cards to the artists from all the constituencies in the district at the Collectorate.
  
  
• National Voters' Day being celebrated (25th January)
  The National Voters’ Day (NVD) is celebrated on 25th January every year since 2011. The theme for NVD-2020 is “Electoral Literacy for Stronger Democracy”. The theme sets the tone for year-long activities with focus on voter education and renewal of citizens’ faith in the electoral process.
  
  It is celebrated at over ten lakh locations across the country including polling stations, district and state headquarters, to mark the Foundation day of Election Commission of India, which was established on 25th January 1950. President Ram Nath Kovind will be the Chief Guest at the 10th National Voters' Day function which is being organized by the Election Commission of India at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi.
  
  
• No Coronavirus case detected in country so far; Travel advisory extended to 12 more airports, says Health Ministry
  Health Ministry has said that 20 thousand 844 passengers from 96 flights have been screened so far for Novel Corona virus symptoms. It said 4082 passengers were screened in 19 flights yesterday. No Novel Coronavirus case has been detected in the country so far. However, three persons have been put under observation.
  
  The Ministry said that travel advisory has been extended to 12 more airports in addition to the current seven. National Institute of Virology, Pune is fully geared up to test samples of Coronavirus. It said, ten other laboratories under the Indian Council of Medical Research’s Viral Research and Diagnostics Laboratories network are also equipped to test such samples, if a need arises.
  
  Meanwhile, In Nepal, one person has been found to be infected from coronavirus. Nepal's Ministry of Health and Population said that a person who had recently came back from the Wuhan region of China has been found positive. The Ministry said, after a preliminary test, his sample was sent to WHO Collaborating Center Hong Kong for confirmation which has been found positive.
  
  
• Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) inaugurated
  Union Minister for Home Affairs, Shri Amit Shah, inaugurated the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) and also dedicated National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal to the Nation. This state-of-the-art Centre is located in New Delhi.
  
  Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) - Objective
  To deal with all types of cybercrimes in a comprehensive and coordinated manner.
  
  It has seven components viz., National Cyber Crime Threat Analytics Unit, National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, National Cyber Crime Training Centre, Cyber Crime Ecosystem Management Unit, National Cyber Crime Research and Innovation Centre, National Cyber Crime Forensic Laboratory Ecosystem and Platform for Joint Cyber Crime Investigation Team.
  
  At the initiative of Union Ministry for Home Affairs (MHA), 15 States and UTs have given their consent to set up Regional Cyber Crime Coordination Centres at respective States/UTs.
  
  National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal
  National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal (www.cybercrime.gov.in) is a citizen-centric initiative that will enable citizens to report cyber crimes online through the portal.
  
  All the cyber crime related complaints will be accessed by the concerned law enforcement agencies in the States and Union Territories for taking action as per law.
  
  So far, more than 700 police districts and more than 3,900 police stations have been connected with this Portal.
  
  After successful completion, this portal can improve the capacity of the law enforcement agencies to investigate the cases and will improve success in prosecution.
  
  This portal also focuses on specific crimes like financial crime and social media related crimes like stalking, cyber bullying, etc.
  
  This portal will improve coordination amongst the law enforcement agencies of different States, districts and police stations for dealing with cyber crimes in a coordinated and effective manner.
  
  
• 23rd National Youth Festival-2020
  Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and State Government of Uttar Pradesh are jointly organizing 23rd National Youth Festival (NYF) 2020 at Indira Pratishthan, Lucknow from 12th to 16th January, 2020.
  
  About NYF
  The Government has been organizing National Youth Festival (NYF) since 1995.
  
  The objective of NYF is to provide a platform to bring the youth of the country together in an attempt to provide them opportunity to showcase their talents in various activities.
  
  It also provides an arena, by creating a mini-India, where youth interact in formal and informal settings and exchange their social and cultural uniqueness.
  
  This blend of diverse socio-cultural milieu proves the Hon'ble Prime Minister's commitment and belief in ‘Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat'.
  
  The theme of the 23rd National Youth Festival 2020 is ‘FIT YOUTH FIT INDIA'
  
  The National Youth Festival is like a mega National Integration Camp. NYF 2020 would have around 6000 participants (volunteers from NYKS, NSS and local youth) from each State of the country.
  
  
• Purvodaya: Accelerated development of Eastern India through an Integrated Steel Hub
  Minster for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Steel, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan in partnership with CII and JPC launched Purvodaya-Accelerated Development of Eastern Region through an Integrated Steel hub
  
  Know! The significance
  Creation of such a world-class steel hub would significantly contribute to Purvodaya by propelling socio-economic development in the Eastern region.
  
  This will play a significant role in overall socio-economic growth of Eastern India, thus reducing the disparity between the East and other regions of the country.
  
  Eastern states of India
  The Eastern region of India, though extremely rich in resources, lags behind other states in terms of development.
  
  (Odisha, Jharkhand,Chhattisgarh, West Bengal and Northern Andhra Pradesh) collectively hold ~80% of the country's iron ore, ~100% of coking coal and significant portion of chromite, bauxite and dolomite reserves.
  
  In addition to its rich mineral reserves, these states also have a significant locational advantage.
  
  There is a presence of major ports such as Paradip, Haldia, Vizag, Kolkata etc. with >30% of India's Major Port capacity, 3 major National Waterways as well as strong road, rail connectivity to most parts of the country.
  
  Despite these advantages, these states are currently behind many other Indian states in terms of economic and development indicators such as GSDP per capita and Human Development Index (HDI).
  
  Time to explore the untapped Potential of Eastern states
  
  India's march towards a $5 trillion economy, the 5 Eastern states can play a major role where steel sector can become the catalyst.
  
  The presence of natural resources, coupled with an already established steel industry, presents excellent opportunity for Eastern India to spearhead the expected growth in the domestic steel industry, the region at large and the country as a whole.
  
  This Eastern belt has the potential to add more than 75% of the country's incremental steel capacity envisioned by the National Steel Policy.
  
  Integrated Steel Hub
  The proposed Integrated Steel Hub, encompassing Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal and Northern Andhra Pradesh, would serve as a torchbearer for socio-economic growth of Eastern India.
  
  The objective of this hub would be to enable swift capacity addition and improve overall competitiveness of steel producers both in terms of cost and quality.
  
  In addition to increased steel capacity, this hub would also help enhance best-in- class value addition capabilities.
  
  The Integrated Steel Hub would focus on 3 key elements:
  Capacity addition through easing the setup of greenfield steel plants
  
  Development of steel clusters near integrated steel plants as well as demand centres
  
  Transformation of logistics and utilities infrastructure which would change the socio-economic landscape in the East.
  
  
• Asia’s largest Civil Aviation platform- ‘Wings India 2020' to be held at Hyderabad from 12-15 March 2020
  Wings India 2020, a flagship event of Indian Civil Aviation industry will be held at Begumpet Airport, Hyderabad from 12-15 March 2020.
  
  Know! More about Wings India
  Wings India 2020'- a four-day event themed: "Flying for All'' is an international platform focused on new business acquisition, investments, policy formation and regional connectivity in civil aviation industry.
  
  Wings India 2020 is a platform for the aviation fraternity to discuss challenges along with new developing growth spots that can be targeted to ensure a positive curve.
  
  Wings India 2020 is also Asia's largest and most popular gathering in the industry. Organized by Ministry of Civil Aviation, Govt. of India, AAI and FICCI the event is expected to attract top leaders, special invitees in foreign ministers for civil aviation and global CEOs, suppliers, strategic partners, organizations and the media.
  
  
• Bihar Assembly ratifies bill to extend SC/ST quota by 10 Years
  Bihar Assembly unanimously ratified bill extending quota for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes in LokSabha and State assemblies by 10 years.
  
  Deputy Chief Minister Sushil Kumar Modi said, reservation is mandatory for development of dalit communities.
  
  
• Assam assembly ratifies Constitution (126th amendment) Bill
  Assam assembly has ratified the Constitution (126th amendment) Bill 2019 at a special day long session at Dispur. The bill seeks to extend SC/ST reservation for another 10 years in LokSabha and state assemblies.
  
  Assam has witnessed tremendous push in infrastructure sector. The state government has given top priority to safeguard the rights of indigenous people of Assam.
  
  
• Raisina Dialogue to begin today (14th January, 2020)
  India's flagship global conference on geopolitics and geo-economics Raisina Dialogue will begin today (14 January, 2020) with Prime Minister Narendra Modi attending the inaugural session. Seven former heads of state or government will share their views on important challenges facing the world.
  
  The fifth edition of the prestigious Raisina Dialogue, jointly organised by the Ministry of External Affairs and the Observer Research Foundation, will bring together 700 international participants from over a 100 countries.
  
  The three-day conference will see participation of 12 foreign ministers, including from Russia, Iran, Australia, Maldives, South Africa, Estonia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Hungary, Latvia, Uzbekistan and the EU.
  
  
• Register all drones by January 31 or face action: Civil Aviation Ministry
  Government has announced a scheme for voluntary registration of all drones and their operators. The registration can be done by the 31st January, 2020.
  
  Civil Aviation Ministry said in a notice that those who fail to register will face action.
  
  A Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) Co-Chair Committee on Drones last year had estimated that the number of illegal drones in India are likely to be between fifty to sixty thousand.
  
  
• Centre identifies 26 islands of Andaman and Nicobar and Lakshawadeep for holistic development by promoting tourism
  The Centre has identified 16 islands in Andaman and Nicobar Islands and 10 in Lakshadweep for holistic development by promoting tourism and offering facilities for export of seafood and coconut-based products.
  
  This was disclosed at the sixth meeting of the Island Development Agency, IDA chaired by Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi.
  
  The Island Development Agency reviewed the progress made towards the programme holistic development of islands.
  
  For the first time in the country, under the guidance of IDA, an initiative of sustainable development in the identified Islands within scientifically-assessed carrying capacity has been taken-up.
  
  
• Road and highways Ministry proposes Rs 14 thousand crore plan for enhancing road safety
  Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari has said that World Bank and Asian Development Bank have approved seven thousand crore rupees each to remove black spots and enhance road safety.
  
  The Minister also called upon the students to become the brand ambassadors of road safety to bring about the behavioral and transformative change in the youths of the country. Mr Gadkari said, youth is the most affected community in the road accidents.
  
  Around four lakh 50 thousand road accidents took place every year, in which over 1.5 lakh people lost their lives. The country loses two per cent of GDP due to road accidents, which is a matter of concern.
  
  The Defence Minister awarded Tamil Nadu, as the best performing state in reducing road accidents.
  
  
• State of Art Tejas express train between Mumbai-Ahmedabad flagged off
  The state of art- new Tejas Express train between Ahmedabad and Mumbai Central has been flagged off by Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani at Ahmedabad Railway Station. On the inaugural run, the Train No. 09426 which left Ahmedabad at 09.30 A.M. will reach Mumbai at 04.00 P.M. today (17 January, 2020).
  
  The train will have stoppages at Nadiad, Vadodara, Bharuch, Surat, Vapi and Borivali en-route to Mumbai Central. AIR, Ahmedabad correspondent reports that the first train under the private sector has world-class comfort and facilities for passengers.
  
  The train operated by IRCTC will run between between Ahmedabad and Mumbai on a six days a week- basis except Thursday - with effect from 19th of January. According to Chief Public Relations Officer of Western Railway, this train will offer world- class comfort and facilities for the passengers.
  
  The fully air-conditioned Tejas has several modern features such as sliding doors, personalized reading lights, mobile charging points, attendant call buttons, bio-toilets, automatic entry and exit doors, CCTV cameras, reclining facility, comfortable seats, etc. Its regular trip with Train No. 82902 will run from 19th January which will leave Ahmedabad at 06:40 A.M. and reach Mumbai Central at 01.10 P.M. Similarly, in return direction, train No. 82901 Mumbai Central-Ahmedabad Tejas Express will leave Mumbai Central at 03.40 P.M. and reach Ahmedabad junction at 09.55 P.M. This train will have two classes namely- Chair Car and Executive Chair Car.
  
  
• Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu addresses gathering at Dr B R Ambedkar Auditorium at Port Blair
  Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu has said that Andaman Nicobar Islands is place of pilgrims and every Indian should visit Cellular Jail once in their life. He was addressing a gathering today (17 January, 2020) at Dr. B.R. Ambedkar Auditorium at Port Blair. He said, as Chairman of Rajya Sabha, he would like to advice all the youth of the country and the Members of Parliament to visit Cellular Jail to know the sacrifices made by our freedom fighters for the freedom of our nation.
  
  Vice President while addressing the gathering said that the Andaman Nicobar Island is very important in context of its strategically location and also for tourism. The Cellular Jail itself described the struggle of our great freedom fighters who were tortured and kept in dark cell. Every Indian including the youth should visit this historic place once in their life.
  
  Mr Venkaiah Naidu said that the Government of India through Islands Development Agency and Niti Aayog has taken a lot of developmental project for Andaman Nicobar and Lakshadweep which will go a long way in coming years. Earlier, the Vice President launched Smart Meter Project of Electricity Department laid foundation stones for Feacal Sludge Treatment Plant, Marine Esplanade and neighbourhood Park.
  
  
• Ladakh hosts first ever Food Processing Summit to attract investors
  Union Territory Ladakh is hosting the first ever Food Processing Summit to attract investors to the region.
  
  With the help of Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, the UT Administration of Ladakh is organizing the Summit.
  
  Ladakh region has vast scope for investment in food Processing Industries in horticulture products like Apricot, SeabuckThorn, Apple and agricultural produce like buckwheat and barley.
  
  
• 7th Conference of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, India Region to start
  The 7th Conference of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) India Region will start at the legislative assembly building in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
  
  Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla will inaugurate the Conference in the presence of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. Governor Anandiben Patel will address the Valedictory Session.
  
  
• Statue of Unity finds place in '8 Wonders of SCO'
  The 182-meter tall Statue of Unity in Gujarat has been included in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's '8 Wonders of SCO' list, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced.
  
  
• Shri Dharmendra Pradhan to launch ‘Saksham’, annual one-month long, people centric fuel conservation mega campaign of PCRA
  ‘Saksham’, an annual one-month long, people-centric fuel conservation mega campaign of Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) under the aegis of Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas is going to be launched on 16th January by Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas and Steel Shri Dharmendra Pradhan in a function to be held in Delhi.
  
  Petroleum Conservation and Research Association (PCRA) in association with Institute of Petroleum-Dehradun has developed high energy efficient PNG burner/Gas stove for household where piped gas is supplied which will save gas as compared to modified LPG stove for PNG.
  
  
• MP government to set up Gandhi chairs, pillars in universities & colleges
  In Madhya Pradesh, the state government has decided to set up Gandhi chairs and Gandhi pillars dedicated to father of the nation in universities and colleges across the state.
  
  Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Kamal Nath will inaugurate the Gandhi Chairs at a symbolic function on January 30, the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
  
  The ‘Gandhi Chair’ will be set up under the political science department of the universities. Under the aegis of Gandhi Chair, scholars who are doing research focusing Mahatma Gandhi will be given incentive of Rs 60 thousand per annum.
  
  
• Government mandates hallmarking of gold jewellery
  The government has notified that it is to mandate hallmarking of gold jewellery and artefacts with effect from 15 January 2021.
  
  The jewellers have been given time for the implementation of this notification. Jewellers who violate this will be punished under the provisions of the Bureau of Indian Standards Act, 2016.
  
  New rules:
  The notification state that only registered jewellers will be allowed to sell the hallmarked gold articles through certified sales outlets.
  
  As per the notifications, the registered jewellers will be allowed to sell jewellery and artefacts only in three grades of gold, 14, 18 and 22 carat, instead of ten grades earlier.
  
  The mandatory hallmarking is not required for gold that is meant for exports.
  
  The new rules are not applicable to any article which is intended to be used for dental, medical, veterinary, scientific or industrial purposes
  
  Gold hallmarking:
  Gold hallmarking is a purity certification of the gold and is voluntary in nature at present. Since April 2000, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is already running a hallmarking scheme for gold jewellery. Also, around 40% of gold jewellery is currently being hallmarked.
  
  Hallmarked gold jewellery will have four components namely BIS mark, purity in carat and fineness, assaying and hallmarking centre's identification mark/number, and jeweller's identification mark/number.
  
  
• Ladakh Food Processing Summit
  Ladakh Food Processing Summit titled Building Partnerships for Inclusive Growth in Food Processing Sector was held on 16 January 2020.
  
  Organized by: The summit was organized by the Department of Industries & Commerce, Ladakh in association with the Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India and Invest India.
  
  Aim: Ladakh Food Processing Summit aimed to carry out a value chain mapping of food processing in Ladakh. It recommends strategies for integrating the local population into food processing and agriculture activities, to maximize the potential of the sector.
  
  Ladakh Food Processing Summit:
  The administration of UT Ladakh is making efforts to give a boost to the food processing industry in Ladakh.
  
  Food production added with value will reap maximum will benefit for the local growers.
  
  Discussions to boost the interest and talent through expert guidance from the Government of India and supporting agencies were held.
  
  During the summit, Invest India presented various schemes to support the sector followed by presentations by representatives from the National Institute of Food Technology and Entrepreneurship Management (NIFTEM), Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology (IIFPT) to provide required technical and skilling expertise.
  
  
• Indian Army conducted the Exercise Winged Raider
  The Indian Army conducted the airborne Exercise Winged Raider in the North-Eastern theatre on 10th January 2020. It is the Army's biggest airborne exercise.
  
  It comprises of more than 500 Special Forces troops. It was conducted from 6-10 January.
  
  Exercise Winged Raider:
  Before the exercise, a series of preparations including the movement of special forces and rallying up of transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force was held from 6 January.
  
  The newly inducted equipment and aerial platforms were validated with clockwork precision and seamless integration between the Indian Army and IAF in difficult terrain.
  
  The exercise included Special Forces personnel parachuting from C-130 Hercules and C-17 Globemaster transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force (IAF), besides Dhruv helicopters during the day and night.
  
  Exercise Winged Raider demonstrated the operational readiness of the Air Warriors and Paratroopers to undertake airborne missions
  
  The exercise was telecasted live to all field formation headquarters in the theatre.
  
  The exercises focused on the frontier with China.
  
  Capacity building exercises including building roads to forward areas, habitats, storage for ammunition and moving some of the advanced weapons systems to the eastern side were held during the exercise.
  
  The exercise by the army rebalanced its deployments and resources on the western and northern fronts.
  
  
• Yoga Science meet organised at Indian Science Congress in Bengaluru
  A Yoga Science meet was organised as part of the ongoing Indian Science Congress in Bengaluru.
  
  yoga heals the mind, body and soul thereby insulating those doing yoga from diseases. He explained about different yoga therapies and postures that can benefit people.
  
  Dr. Indranil Basu Ray, a cardiologist from Canada spoke on Yoga research.
  
  Meditation and yoga can compose our body and mind and give relief from any anxiety and stress.
  
  The penultimate day of 107th Indian Science Congress in Bengaluru will focus on farming and rural development.
  
  Indian Council of Agricultural Research and University of Agricultural Sciences have identified 120 innovative farmers from across the country to participate in Farmers Science Congress.
  
  Around 10 innovative farmers among them will present their views on integrated agriculture, climate change, agrarian distress, bio-diversity, ecosystem and rural bio-entrepreneurship.
  
  
• DRDO participates in Pride of India-Science Expo-2020
  The Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) is participating in Pride of India-Science Expo-2020 being held at the 107th Indian Science Congress in Bengaluru.
  
  31 DRDO laboratories with more than 150 exhibits and models are participating in the expo showcasing many cutting-edge indigenous defence technologies, which narrate the saga of Self-reliance and National Pride with the Make in India spirit.
  
  Star attractions of outdoor exhibits at DRDO Pavilion include the Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM), Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile system (QRSAM), ASTRA Missile, Radars including Battle Field Surveillance Radar (BFSR), ASLESHA and BHARANI, MINI-UGV Autonomous Surveillance Robot, Sentry Autonomous Surveillance Robot etc.
  
  Indoor exhibits include models from each technology cluster of DRDO. Some of them are AEW&C, UAV Rustom-I and Tapas, Nirbhay Missile, Akash Missile System, Prithvi missile, Nag missile, HELINA, Maareech - Advanced Torpedo Defence System, Bukhari-the heating system, Ready-to-Eat Packaged Foods, Juices etc.
  
  DRDO pavilion at the Pride of India Expo has always been a major attraction amongst visitors & students.
  
  The visitors also get a chance to interact with DRDO scientists manning the stalls.
  
  
• Govt's UJALA, SLNP complete five years of illuminating nation
  UJALA and Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP) of the central government completed five successful years of illuminating the country.
  
  Over 36.13 crore LED bulbs have been distributed across the country through the UJALA initiative.
  
  This has resulted in estimated energy savings of 46.92 billion kilowatt-hour per year.
  
  Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) project brought the market transformation in the energy efficiency sector.
  
  Prices of LED bulbs being distributed under UJALA programme have fallen to one-tenth of their rates, from 310 rupees in 2015 to 38 rupees in 2018.
  
  The switch from inefficient incandescent bulbs to LEDs is helping families reduce their electricity bills while also enabling them to access better brightness in homes.
  
  More than 1.03 crore smart LED streetlights have been installed till date under the Street Lighting National Programme.
  
  This has enabled an estimated energy savings of 6.97 billion kilowatt-hour per year.
  
  LED streetlights have been installed in various states across the country, helping in generating approximately 13,000 jobs to support Make in India initiative.
  
  
• YSR Aarogyasri scheme launched
  Andhra Pradesh CM YS Jagan Mohan Reddy inaugurated YSR Aarogyasri scheme at Eluru on 3 Jan 2020.
  
  The scheme is aimed at providing free medical treatment to the poor.
  
  Over one crore individuals will be benefited under this new health scheme.
  
  A total of 2,059 medical ailments have been covered under the scheme.
  
  In all, 16,37,230 Aarogyasri cards will be distributed across the State.
  
  
• PM Narendra Modi to chair meeting of experts at Niti Aayog on Jan 9
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi will chair the meeting of experts at the Niti Aayog on 9 Jnauary, 2020 and is likely to discuss the state of economy.
  
  The meeting will also be attended by Niti Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar, CEO Amitabh Kant and other senior officials of the think tank.
  
  The meeting assumes important as the government is in the process of formulating Budget proposals for 2020-21.
  
  Prime minister interacted with top business tycoons to discuss issues facing the economy and measures needed to boost growth and create jobs.
  
  Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will present her second Union Budget on February 1st with an eye to reviving growth.
  
  
• Nitin Gadkari asserts to create Rs 50,000-crore ethanol economy
  Union Minister for Road Transport Nitin Gadkari asserted that he wants to create a 50,000-crore rupees ethanol economy.
  
  The bio-fuel will benefit both ecology and economy.
  
  A lot of years went into convincing about ethanol use but in the last five years, the policy related to ethanol has been implemented in true sense.
  
  If the use of ethanol is increased, it will help ecologically and economically as import of crude oil will go down and it will benefit ecology and economy.
  
  
• Prakash Javadekar to confer first ‘Antarrashtriya Yoga Diwas Media Samman’ to 30 media houses
  Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar will confer the first ‘Antarrashtriya Yoga Diwas Media Samman’ to 30 media houses in New Delhi.
  
  The Ministry had instituted the award in June, 2019 to mark the contribution of media in spreading the message of Yoga.
  
  It acknowledged the positive role and responsibility of the media in disseminating the outreach of Yoga in India and abroad.
  
  Eleven awards will be conferred under the category of Best Media Coverage of Yoga in Newspapers.
  
  Eight awards will be presented under the category “Best Media Coverage of Yoga in Television while 11 will be conferred under the category “Best Media Coverage of Yoga in Radio. The award comprises of a special medal, plaque, trophy and a citation.
  
  The contribution of Media in popularizing Yoga and the entries were assessed by a Jury comprising six members.
  
  It was headed by Justice C. K. Prasad, Chairman, Press Council of India.
  
  The International Day of Yoga is being celebrated on 21st of June every year since 2015.
  
  The idea of International Day of Yoga was first proposed by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his address at the United Nations General Assembly in September 2014.
  
  
• 2nd round of Intensified Mission Indradhanush- 2 begins
  The second phase of Intensified Mission Indradhanush 2.0 rolled out at block level in 35 districts of Uttar Pradesh.
  
  The aim of the program launched by central government in 2017 is to achieve 90 percent vaccination coverage in children of less than 2 years in state.
  
  Under the program the immunization activity will be in four rounds over seven working days excluding the Regular immunisation days, Sundays and holidays.
  
  First round was completed in December, 2019 while present round started.
  
  Next rounds will be in February and March months and will cover 425 blocks of 73 districts of state.
  
  Under the program around 66 thousand sessions will be organized for vaccination of more than 5.5 lakh children and around 1.3 lakh pregnant women of state.
  
  Prior to the launch of program a detail of all children under age of 2 who were left during earlier vaccination drives were collected will the help of Asha workers last month.
  
  There will be an enhanced focus on left-outs, dropouts, and resistant families and hard to reach areas, focus on urban, under served population and tribal areas.
  
  In Bihar Mission Indradhanush 2.0 has been launched for covering low immunization pocket of state.
  
  The extensive immunization will cover children upto 2 years of age and all pregnant women.
  
  The extensive immunization has been focused on left outs, dropouts and resistant families and hard to reach areas.
  
  Immunization is being conducted in blocks of different districts including Nawada, Samastipur and Rohtash districts.
  
  Immunization activity will be in four rounds. Enhanced immunization session with flexible timing, mobile session and mobilization by other departments.
  
  The focus of immunization is on urban, underserved population and tribal areas. Intensified Mission Indradhanush will be conducted till March 2020.
  
  
• Nine-judge SC bench to hear Sabrimala case from January 13
  A nine-judge Constitution Bench of Supreme Court will hear from 13th of January, the issue of allowing women and girls of all ages to enter Kerala's Sabarimala temple along with other contentious issues of alleged discrimination against Muslim and Parsi women.
  
  The top court issued a notice informing listing of a petition filed by Indian Young Lawyers Association seeking review of its 2018 judgement allowing women and girls of all ages to enter Sabarimala temple.
  
  On 14th of November, 2019, a five-judge Constitution Bench in a 3:2 majority verdict had referred to a larger seven-judge bench, the pleas seeking review of its 2018 judgement.
  
  The debate about the Constitutional validity of religious practices like bar on entry of women and girls into a place of worship was not limited to the Sabarimala case.
  
  Such restrictions are there with regard to the entry of Muslim women into mosques and Dargah and Parsi women, married to non-Parsi men, being barred from the holy fireplace of an Agyari.
  
  
• Army to sign MoU for AK-203 assault rifles
  The Indian Army will sign an MoU in a month for the procurement of over 7.5 lakh AK-203 assault rifles, which are to be manufactured by an India- Russia joint venture (JV).
  
  About 1 lakh rifles will come directly from Russia and the remaining will be manufactured by the JV in India.
  
  The rifles will be manufactured by the Indo- Russian Rifles Private Limited (IRRPL) at Korwa in Uttar Pradesh.
  
  
• Third edition of 'Sukanya' project began
  Kolkata Police started the 3rd edition of its 'Sukanya' project on 6 Jan 2020 to provide girls studying in schools and colleges in the city with self-defence training.
  
  Girl students of VIII, IX, XI and girls studying in the first year at educational institutions will be part of it.
  
  The initiative is funded by Women and Child Development and Social Welfare Department of the state government.
  
  
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi calls for suggestions ahead of Union Budget 2020-2021
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited people to share their ideas and suggestions for this year’s Union Budget on MyGov. in.
  
  The Union Budget represents the aspirations of 130 crore Indians and lays out the path towards India’s development.
  
  
• President Ram Nath Kovind lays foundation stone to Lakshadweep's first Super Specialty Hospital at Kavaratti
  President Ram Nath Kovind laid foundation stone to Lakshadweep's first Super Specialty Hospital at Kavaratti on 7 Janaury, 2020.
  
  President who is on two days visit to the union territory assured special focus for the development of Lakshadweep and directed Lakshadweep Administrator to give special attention for the completion of Super Specialty Hospital.
  
  Lakshadweep Administrator Dineshwar Sharma received the President at Agatti Airport. After the ceremonial reception, the President reached Kavaratti.
  
  President received guard of honour from a joint group of 160 different forces.
  
  At the event in Kavaratti, President congratulated Rahmath Begum, the only woman who won Padmashri from Lakshadweep. He extended new year wishes and invited the people of Lakshadweep to visit Rashtrapati Bhavan.
  
  President reached Bangaram island of Lakshadweep, this evening. After spending a full day at Bangaram, he will return to Kochi on Thursday and leave for New Delhi on the same day.
  
  
• Nirbhaya Case: Delhi Court issues death warrants for hanging of four convicts on January 22
  A Delhi Court ordered that four convicts in the 2012 Nirbhaya Gang rape and murder case will be hanged on January 22 at 7 am in Tihar jail.
  
  The order was pronounced by Additional Sessions Judge Satish Kumar Arora who issued death warrants against them.
  
  The four death row convicts are Mukesh, Vinay Sharma, Akshay Singh and Pawan Gupta. Besides the four convicts, two more were accused in the rape and murder.
  
  Ram Singh, the fifth accused, committed suicide and a juvenile was released after three years in a reform home.
  
  The 23-year-old victim dubbed as Nirbhaya - the fearless one, died from her injuries 13 days after she was raped and brutally assaulted on a moving bus on December 16, 2012.
  
  It was a crime of staggering brutality that sparked massive protests, global outrage and led the country passing new anti-rape laws.
  
  
• CISF to observe 2020 as ‘year of mobility’
  The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) will observe 2020 as the ‘year of mobility’.
  
  It will have a special focus on the creation of more residential units and implementation of various welfare measures for the troops.
  
  In 2020, the CISF will aim at creating an infrastructure for their families.
  
  It will also aim at focusing on sports and physical fitness leveraging modern gadgetry.
  
  
• Kochi to host ASCEND 2020, the Global Investors Meet
  Kerala is organizing the Global Investors Meet 'ASCEND 2020'. The meet will be held from 9-10 January 2020 in Kochi, Kerala. The meet will be organized by the Industries Department of the state government.
  
  In the meeting, the government will highlight a Kochi-to-Palakkad integrated manufacturing cluster, a Rs.131 crore Defence Park at 60 acres in Ottapalam of Palakkad district and an electronic hardware park in Ernakulam district among 18 mega projects the state government.
  
  The meet will focus on integrated solid waste management systems at Thiruvananthapuram, Thrissur, and Malappuram.
  
  It will focus on the medium density fiberboard plant in Perumbavoor.
  
  The organizers of the program will showcase 70 other projects classified as large, medium and small to provide jobs.
  
  The megaprojects require an estimated investment of more than Rs.100 crore.
  
  These projects are expected to give direct employment to at least 500 people.
  
  The proposed mega-projects also include a Propylene Oxide manufacturing plant of 2,00,000 MPA capacity in the vicinity of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL)-Kochi Refinery, a Rs. 1,864-crore KINFRA-initiated Petrochemical Park of international standards at Ambalamugal in Ernakulam district and a Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) manufacturing facility of capacity 150,000 TPA.
  
  To showcase the meeting, the Kerala State government has launched the Invest Kerala Portal. It will provide a single-window facilitator for easy investment promotion under its Ease of doing business initiatives.
  
  
• Government approves over Rs 5000 crore project for natural gas supplies in Northeast
  The Government has approved the Viability Gap Funding, VGF of 5 thousand, 559 crore rupees to Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited to build Natural Gas Pipeline Grid covering 8 North Eastern states.
  
  Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, CCEA approved the capital grant in New Delhi.
  
  This is second such funding by the government for gas pipeline project.
  
  The total cost of the grid is 9 thousand 256 crore rupees and sanctioned VGF amount will cover 60 per cent cost of the project.
  
  The 1,656-km pipeline will connect Guwahati in Assam to major cities in the region such as Itanagar, Dimapur, Kohima, Imphal, Aizawl and Agartala.
  
  The project is critical towards implementing the government's Hydrocarbon Vision 2030 for the North-East.
  
  The Gas Pipeline Grid would be developed in all the eight states of North-Eastern region.
  
  The Capital Grant will provide natural gas supplies to various types of consumers and would help in substituting the liquid fuels.
  
  The government said that the pipeline grid would ensure reliability and uninterrupted natural gas supplies to the consumers which otherwise gets severely affected due to various reasons in this part of the country.
  
  The CCEA also gave in principle approval to sell equity held by four Central Public Sector Enterprises and two state PSUs in Neelachal Ispat Nigam Limited-NINL.
  
  It approved strategic disinvestment of 49.78 per cent equity shareholding of Minerals and Metals Trading Corporation MMTC Limited and 10.10 per cent of National Mineral Development Corporation.
  
  The CCEA, gave approval for strategic disinvestment of point 68 per cent of MECON and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited each.
  
  
• Army Chief General MM Narawane to visit Siachen today (9 January)
  Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Narawane will be visiting Siachen today (9 January, 2020).
  
  This is his maiden visit to any forward post after taking the Charge as India's 28th Army Chief.
  
  General MM Narawane will be visiting the base camp of world's highest battle filed Siachen in a while from now.
  
  This is his first visit to Siachen as Army General.
  
  At temperatures touching as low as -50 degrees Celsius, the survival itself is a battle in Siachen. Army is guarding the country's boundaries in very hostile environment, braving the enemy as well as the nature.
  
  New Army Chief's maiden visit to Siachen will boost the morale of the forces here.
  
  General Manoj Mukund Narawane will lay wreath at Siachen War Memorial to pay homage to the martyrs.
  
  Later he will interact with the local Army officials.
  
  
• PM Narendra Modi invites people's ideas, suggestions about their demands and aspirations from upcoming Union Budget
  In an effort to engage common people directly on their demands and aspirations from upcoming Union Budget, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has invited ideas and suggestions from them.
  
  Union Budget represents the aspirations of 130 crore Indians and lays out the path towards India’s development.
  
  He invited people to send their suggestions on MyGov.in.
  
  Earlier, the Finance Ministry had also urged people to share their valuable ideas in the field of agriculture, education and other sectors for the general budget 2020-21.
  
  Finance Minister, Nirmala Sitharaman already had pre-budget consultations with representatives of different sectors including health, education, banking, infrastructure, energy, rural development, agriculture as well as the leading economist and industry bodies.
  
  The Union Budget is expected to be presented in the first week of next month (February, 2020).
  
  
• Institutions at Gujarat Ayurved University to get status of Institution of National Importance
  The Cabinet approved conferring the status of Institution of National Importance to a cluster of Ayurvedic institutions at Gujarat Ayurved University campus in Jamnagar.
  
  The elevation of the status of institution will provide it with the autonomy to upgrade the standard of Ayurveda education, frame various courses in Ayurveda as per national and international demand.
  
  It will help the institute to develop tertiary care in Ayurveda and to secure inter-disciplinary collaborations to give a contemporary thrust to Ayurveda.
  
  Considering the rapidly growing role of AYUSH Systems in addressing the Public Health challenges of India, conferring the status of National Importance will boost the role and importance of Ayurveda in Public Health.
  
  The strengthening of Ayurveda will reduce government expenditure on health as Ayurveda is cost-effective because of its preventive and curative approaches.
  
  A bill to that effect will be introduced in the ensuing Session of Parliament.
  
  
• Advantage Maharashtra expo 2020 in Aurangabad
  Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray will inaugurate Advantage Maharashtra expo 2020 in Aurangabad today (9 January, 2020).
  
  The four-day mega industrial exhibition has been organised by the Marathwada Association of Small Scale Industries and Agriculture (MASSIA).
  
  Growth of Marathwada industries in technology and innovation and the products produced and exported from the region will be showcased in this exhibition.
  
  Convener of the expo Sunil Kirdak informed that over 450 exhibitors from within the state as well as outside the state are participating in this exhibition. He added that conferences and seminars will also be held during the event.
  
  However, explaining the importance of the event Mr. Kirdak said that this exhibition will provide the opportunity for ambitious businesses and will serve as the platform for small entrepreneurs.
  
  
• 16th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas being celebrated today (9 January)
  Pravasi Bharatiya Divas being celebrated on 9th January every year to mark the contribution of overseas Indian community in the development of India. It also commemorates the return of Mahatma Gandhi from South Africa to India on 9 January 1915.
  
  Established in 2003 the celebratory event is organised by the Ministry of External Affairs every year on this day.
  
  On the occasion of 16th Pravasi Bhartiya Divas, External Affairs Minister Dr S Jaishankar will interact with Indian Diaspora across the globe through a digital video conference.
  
  
• PM’s ‘Pariksha Pe Charcha-2020’ programme to be held on Jan 20
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi's interaction Programme with school students, Pariksha Pe Charcha-2020 will be held in New Delhi on 20th January, 2020. In this programme, the Prime Minister will interact with the cross section of Students and Teachers from India and abroad to beat exam stress.
  
  Around two thousand students, parents and teachers will be participating in it.
  
  Last month, Human Resource Development Ministry launched a short essay competition for students of Class 9 to 12 for the third edition of this event. Selected winners of this competition will get a chance to attend Pariksha Pe Charcha and interact with Mr Modi.
  
  The first edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha was held on 16th February, 2018 and second on 29th of January, 2019.
  
  
• CBFC announces implementation of new certificate design in regional offices
  The Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC) has announced the implementation of its new certificate design in all its nine regional offices across India.
  
  The certificate will have a new and modern look.
  
  CBFC chairperson Prasoon Joshi said the certificate should be interactive and it should reflect the modern digital world, leveraging the ease that technology has brought in the organisation's work processes.
  
  The new design underlines the positive, user-friendly and dynamic approach of the CBFC and its board.
  
  The new certificate will provide all the information and basic certification data about the film from cast credits details to synopsis, plot, trailer and promo.
  
  The new certificate and the logo of CBFC was showcased on August 31, 2019 and was unveiled by Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar, along with the then Information and Broadcasting Secretary Amit Khare.
  
  
• Census India-2021 to begin on 1st April; To be conducted through mobile app
  Census India-2021 will begin on 1st April, 2020 and will end on 30th of September. Census India-2021 will be conducted through a mobile phone application, moving away from the traditional pen and paper.
  
  Enumerators of the census will seek the information of mobile number of the head of the family, information related to toilets, TV, Internet, vehicles owned, source of drinking water besides asking other questions during the house listing phase of the exercise.
  
  
• Over 1000 Fast Track Special Courts to be set up for speedy disposal of rape, POCSO cases
  Over 1000 Fast Track Special Courts will be set up across the country for speedy disposal of cases relating to rape and Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act.
  
  Out of these, 389 courts have been proposed to be set up exclusively for POCSO Act related cases in districts where the pendency of such cases is more than 100.
  
  The Law Ministry has said, these courts will be set-up as a part of the National Mission for Safety of Women.
  
  The scheme was circulated to the concerned State Governments and Union Territory Administrations in September, 2019.
  
  The Ministry said, 24 States and Union Territories have joined this scheme for setting up 792 Fast Track Special Courts.
  
  These include 354 exclusive courts for trial of POCSO offences.
  
  216 POCSO courts are already functional in 12 States.
  
  Incidents of rape and gang rape of minor girls below twelve years and similar heinous crimes against women have shaken the country.
  
  These offences require effective deterrence through time- bound trial. For this purpose, the Centre has enacted the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018.
  
  
• Delhi Police arrests three ISIS terrorists from Wazirabad area
  Delhi Police have arrested three terrorists of ISIS-inspired module after an encounter in city's Wazirabad area.
  
  Deputy Commissioner of Police - Special Cell of Delhi Police P S Kushwaha informed today that arrested terrorists were planning terror strike in the National Capital Region and Uttar Pradesh. Arms were recovered from their possession. They were taking instructions from foreign handlers.
  
  
• Visakhapatnam to host naval event MILAN 2020
  Visakhapatnam, the City of Destiny is to host MILAN 2020. The International Naval event has been scheduled to be held in March 2020.
  
  Vice Admiral SN Ghormade, Chief of Staff ENC reviewed the preparations at the Eastern Naval Command (ENC) on 7 January 2020.
  
  The review meeting included site visits of the venues by the Nodal officers from the Navy and the stakeholder organizations that participate in the event.
  
  MILAN 2020 is a multilateral naval exercise. The main objective of the event is to enhance professional interaction between friendly foreign navies and learn the strengths and best practices in the maritime domain.
  
  The theme of the exercise is Synergy Across the Seas. The theme is expected to provide a unique opportunity for Operational Commanders of friendly foreign navies to interact with each other in areas of mutual interest.
  
  41 navies were invited and over 30 navies have confirmed their participation in MILAN 2020.
  
  
• J&K’s diverse Tourism attractions showcased at SATTE- Expo 2020
  Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Department has launched a massive publicity campaign at the ongoing South Asian Trade and Travel Exchange Expo (SATTE), 2020, to showcase diverse tourism attractions of the twin regions.
  
  The three-day expo, sponsored by J&K Tourism Department and supported by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India, has been organized in New Delhi.
  
  The 27th Edition of SATTE has witnessed participation of over 1,000 delegates from over 50 countries and 28 Indian states. Aimed at building new business partnerships, SATTE is an important avenue for the promotion of tourism.
  
  
• Union Power Minister releases State Energy Efficiency Index 2019
  Shri Raj Kumar Singh, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power and New & Renewable Energy and Honourable Minister of State for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship released the ‘State Energy Efficiency Index 2019’, which tracks the progress of Energy Efficiency (EE) initiatives in 36 states and union territories based on 97 significant indicators.
  
  The index was released on the occasion of RPM (Review, Planning and Monitoring) meeting, which is being held on 09-10 Jan 2020 at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra, New Delhi.
  
  The index is developed by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in association with Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE).
  
  It will help states contribute towards national goals on energy security and climate action by helping drive EE policies and program implementation at the state and local level, tracking progress in managing the states’ and India’s energy footprint and institutionalizing the data capture and monitoring of EE activities by states.
  
  
• In-depth Review of India's Energy Policies report launched by International Energy Agency (IEA)
  In-depth Review of India's Energy Policies report by International Energy Agency (IEA) was launched in New Delhi. India is now the third largest energy consumer in the world.
  
  India is in the midst of a major transformative shift in its energy sector. The energy polices already put in place by the Government and also those on the anvil, clearly demonstrate our determination to embrace this energy transition in a sustainable and responsible manner.
  
  
• Shri Amit Shah inaugurates Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) in New Delhi
  Union Minister for Home Affairs, Shri Amit Shah, inaugurated the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) and also dedicated National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal to the Nation.
  
  This state-of-the-art Centre is located in New Delhi.
  
  It has seven components viz., National Cyber Crime Threat Analytics Unit, National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal, National Cyber Crime Training Centre, Cyber Crime Ecosystem Management Unit, National Cyber Crime Research and Innovation Centre, National Cyber Crime Forensic Laboratory Ecosystem and Platform for Joint Cyber Crime Investigation Team.
  
  At the initiative of Union Ministry for Home Affairs (MHA), 15 States and UTs have given their consent to set up Regional Cyber Crime Coordination Centres at respective States/UTs.
  
  
• AP CM launches Rs 6,318 crore 'AmmaVodi' scheme for indigent
  Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy launched his government's flagship programme 'AmmaVodi' scheme meant to support lakhs of poor and needy mothers to educate their children.
  
  Marking the launch, Y S Jagan Mohan Reddy pressed a button on a laptop to credit an annual financial assistance to the tune of Rs 15,000 each into the accounts of around 43 lakh mothers for the benefit of 82 lakh children in the state.
  
  
• Vice President Venkaiah Naidu to arrive in Kerala
  Vice President Venkaiah Naidu will arrive in Kerala on a day-long visit. He will inaugurate the 87th Sivagiri pilgrimage meeting in Sivagiri Theerthadana Mutt in Varkala.
  
  Later in the day, he will be inaugurating the silver jubilee celebration of Sree Satyasai Orphanage Trust, Saigramam in Thiruvananthapuram.
  
  Mr Naidu will attend the valedictory function of National Children's Science Congress in Nalanchira. Soon after the event, Vice President will leave for Delhi.
  
  
• NITI Aayog to launch second edition of Sustainable Development Goals India Index today
  NITI Aayog will launch the second edition of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) India Index in New Delhi .
  
  The Index documents the progress made by India’s States and Union Territories towards implementing the 2030 SDG targets.
  
  NITI Aayog will also launch the Dashboard 2019-20.
  
  The SDG India Index and Dashboard track the progress of States and rank all States and Union Territories on 100 indicators drawn from Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation's National Indicator Framework, comprising 306 indicators.
  
  It indicates where the country and its States and UTs currently are on SDG implementation.
  
  It also charts the distance to be travelled to reach the SDG targets.
  
  The Index covers 16 out of 17 SDGs and a qualitative assessment on Goal 17.
  
  This marks an improvement over the 2018 SDG Index, which covered only 13 goals.
  
  
• Government committed to ensure that each paramilitary force jawan spends 100 days with his family
  The government is committed to ensure that each and every jawan of the para-military forces spends hundred days in a year with his family.
  
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi has assured to take care of the families of the security personnel while they guard the nation.
  
  Health cards will be provided to the families of the jawans and urged the state governments to provide such a facility.
  
  It is the most powerful para-military force in the world.
  
  
• Function organized to commemorate 76th Anniversary of First Flag Hoisting at Port Blair
  A function was organized to commemorate the 76th Anniversary of First Flag Hoisting by Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose at Port Blair.
  
  Lt Governor Admiral DK Joshi and Minister of State for Health & Family Welfare Ashwini Kumar Choubey hoisted the National Flag at Flag Point, Port Blair.
  
  Subhash Mela Committee Swarajdweep organised a bike rally and a cultural programme.
  
  
• GeM Samvaad took off in 4 States
  A national outreach Programme, GeM Samvaad, was launched on 17 Dec 2019 to reach out to stakeholders across the country.
  
  The outreach programme began from 19th December 2019 and during the launch week the States of Karnataka, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh were covered.
  
  The outreach programme will be on till 17th February 2020 and will cover all the States and UTs.
  
  
• India's first Transgender University in UP
  India’s first university for the transgender community will be opened in Fazilnagar block of Kushinagar district in Uttar Pradesh.
  
  It is the first of its kind University in the country, where transgender community members will be able to get the education.
  
  The university is being built by Akhil Bhartiya Kinnar Siksha Seva Trust (All-India transgender education service trust).
  
  
• ONGC got green nod for Rs 3,500 crore project
  ONGC has received environment clearance for carrying out onshore exploration, development and production of oil and gas in 100 locations in the non-forest area of Assam.
  
  It would entail an investment of Rs 3,500 crore.
  
  The company proposes to carry out drilling in 100 locations to evaluate the hydrocarbon potential of 21 different onshore Petroleum Mining Lease (PML) blocks in Assam.
  
  
• Global House Price Index Q3 2019
  Knight Frank's Global House Price Index tracks the performance of over 50 mainstream national housing markets around the world using official data from Central Banks or National Statistic Offices in each country.
  
  India ranked 47th in the world in terms of appreciation in housing prices.
  
  India stood at 11th position in the April-June quarter of 2019 with a 7.7 per cent year-on-year rise in home prices.
  
  As per the data, Hungary leads the index this quarter with 15.4% annual price growth, followed by Luxembourg and Croatia.
  
  
• MyGov reaches 1 crore registered users
  Central government's citizen engagement platform - MyGov has reached one crore registered users.
  
  Five years ago, @mygovindia began its journey with a vision to offer a platform for the voice and views of the people of India.
  
  MyGov has emerged as a vibrant centre for ideas and insights. Congrats on this milestone.
  
  
• Central Railway to run special late night trains on Dec 31
  The Central Railway (CR) has announced that it will run four additional suburban services between CSMT-Kalyan and CSMT-Panvel stations after the midnight tonight for the convenience of New Year revellers.
  
  These suburban special trains will stop at all stations.
  
  Of the four services, two will run on the main line and the rest on the Harbour line.
  
  He informed that all these locals will depart at 1.30 am from CSMT Main and Harbour line for Kalyan and Panvel stations.
  
  Western Railway has announced that it will operate eight special services between Churchgate and Virar stations after midnight tonight.
  
  Every year, thousands of people from extended suburbs travel in local trains to ring in the New Year at iconic Gateway of India in south Mumbai.
  
  
• PAN-Aadhaar linking deadline extended till March 2020
  The last date for the mandatory linking of the Permanent Account Number (PAN) with Aadhaar has been extended till March, 2020.
  
  The earlier deadline was December 31.
  
  This is the eighth time that the Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has extended the deadline for individuals to link their PAN with Aadhaar.
  
  Supreme Court, in September, 2018, had declared the Centre's flagship Aadhaar scheme as constitutionally valid and held that the biometric ID would remain mandatory for the filing of I-T returns and allotment of the PAN.
  
  
• Railways announces passenger fare hike in non-suburban sections
  Ministry of Railways have decided to marginally affect an increase in fare only over non-suburban sections keeping the affordability concerns of daily commuters.
  
  There shall be no fare hike for passengers over suburban sections and season ticket holders.
  
  This class constitutes 66 per cent of total passenger segment over Indian Railways.
  
  Even for the passengers travelling in ordinary Non- AC Classes, there shall be a marginal increase of 1 paise per passenger-kilometre.
  
  The increase in fare will be on tickets bought on or after 1st January 2020 and no excess fare ( difference of fare) will be charged from passengers who have booked tickets before this date.
  
  There shall be no change in charges for reservation fee, superfast surcharge etc.
  
  
• NIA files charge-sheet against six people for ambush in Manipur on Assam Rifles personnel in 2017
  The National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a charge-sheet in its Special Court in Manipur against six people for an alleged ambush on Assam Rifles personnel in 2017.
  
  According to NIA, the ambush allegedly took place on a road opening party of the 4th Assam Rifles at Chamol-Sajir Tampak road in Chandel district.
  
  The attack was allegedly carried out by the People's Liberation Army (PLA) and Manipur Naga People's Front (MNPF).
  
  Two personnel were seriously injured in the ambush.
  
  One of them later succumbed to his injuries. Two terrorists were also killed in the action.
  
  
• SMS services to be restored in Kashmir; Broadband Internet facility also to be restored in all govt hospitals across J&K
  SMS service which was banned in Kashmir since the abrogation of Article 370 on August 5, will be restored. Besides, broadband Internet facility will be restored in all the Government Hospitals across the Jammu & Kashmir. This was stated by J&K Government Spokesperson Rohit Kansal.
  
  He said that toll plazas at Lakhanpur (Kathua district), Lower Munda (Anantnag district), Railway Station, Airports and all other places across the Union Territory will stand abolished. He said that the Union Territory will incur a revenue loss of 1500 crore rupees due to abolition of toll plazas. Kansal said that the nce Ministry has already issued orders in this regard.
  
  He further stated that a high powered committee will be set up under the chairmanship of Advisor K.K.Sharma which will interact with various stakeholders and will give suggestions for the development of vibrant, modern competitive industrial and manufacturing sector.
  
  
• N. Thirumala Naik: New labour commissioner
  Odisha government made a reshuffle in IAS cadres by appointing Dr. Noonsavath Thirumala Naik as the new Labour Commissioner of the state recently.
  
  Dr Naik, the Director of Fisheries, replaced Niranjan Sahu, who is appointed as the Revenue Divisional Commissioner in Northern Division, Sambalpur.
  
  Prasanta Kumar Senapati has been appointed as Director of OBC, ST & SC Development and M&BCW Dept.
  
  
• Indian Navy plans to build 24 submarines
  The Indian Navy is planning to build 24 submarines, including six nuclear attack submarines.
  
  There are presently 15 conventional submarines and two nuclear submarines in its fleet.
  
  The Indian Navy has two nuclear submarines INS Arihant and INS Chakra, with the latter being leased from Russia.
  
  Majority of the conventional submarines are over 25 years old.
  
  
• AAI to Set Up 3 Water Aerodromes
  Airports Authority of India (AAI) will be setting up three, first-of-its-kind in the country, water aerodromes in Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
  
  It intends to develop water aerodromes in Long Island, Swaraj Island and Shaheed Island with a total investment of Rs. 50 crore.
  
  It is in the process of seeking environmental clearance from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change for it.
  
  
• Indian Science Congress to be held
  The University of Agricultural Sciences in Bengaluru is gearing up to host the 107th Indian Science Congress from 3-7 Jan 2020.
  
  PM Narendra Modi will inaugurate the conference to be attended by over 15,000 delegates.
  
  The Pride of India exhibition will see over 130 participants exhibiting technologies, machineries, equipments and science models.
  
  
• India improved score in SDG Index 2019-20
  India improved its composite score from 57 to 60 in the Sustainable Development Goals Index 2019-20.
  
  Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Telangana have topped on the SDGs Index-2019-20.
  
  Kerala achieved the first rank in the composite SDG Index with a score of 70.
  
  This was revealed in the second edition of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) India Index.
  
  
• Railway Protection Force renamed as Indian Railway Protection Force Service
  The Ministry of Railways accorded Organised Group 'A' status to Railway Protection Force (RPF) and renamed it Indian Railway Protection Force Service.
  
  The Organised Group 'A' status (OGAS) to RPF decision arising from Hon'ble Court's orders.
  
  The RPF will be known as the Indian Railway Protection Force Service.
  
  The notice in this regard was issued by the Joint Director of Railway Board Amitabh Joshi on December 30.
  
  It is a security force, established by the Railway Protection Force Act, 1957.
  
  
• India first time ranks among top ten in Climate Change Performance Index
  India for the first time ranks among the top ten in the Climate Change Performance Index, CCPI, which goes further to prove that all efforts and activities being currently undertaken by the government are setting a tone of vast improvements.
  
  Government aims to increase the share of non-fossil fuels to 175 GigaWatt by 2022 and further take it to 450 GW.
  
  Air pollution is one of the biggest global environmental challenges of today. A time bound national level strategy for pan India implementation to tackle the increasing air pollution problem in a comprehensive manner in the form of National Clean Air Programme was launched last year.
  
  The total forest and tree cover rises to over 24 percent of the total geographical area of the Country.
  
  Government is taking all possible steps to protect the tiger. According to the latest tiger census data -2018, the total tigers in India has risen to around three thousand.
  
  In a major boost towards promoting afforestation and achieving green objectives of the country, government handed over 47 thousand crore rupees of Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority, CAMPA funds to various states in August 2019.
  
  
• EC launches Political Parties Registration Tracking Management System
  The Election Commission has launched a Political Parties Registration Tracking Management System to enable applicants to track the status of the applications.
  
  The Commission had amended the guidelines for registration last month.
  
  Applying for the party registration from 1st January, 2020 will be able to track the progress of applications and will get the status through SMS and e-mail.
  
  An association seeking registration has to submit an application to the Commission within a period of 30 days from the date of its formation.
  
  
• PM Modi’s ‘Pariksha pe Charcha’ programme rescheduled on Jan 20
  Pariksha pe Charcha, the programme in which Prime Minister interacts with the cross section of Students and Teachers from India and abroad to beat exam stress has been rescheduled to 20th January, 2020. The programme was earlier scheduled for 16th of January.
  
  It has been rescheduled in view of festivals of Pongal, Makar Sankranti, Lohri, Onam across the country.
  
  Human Resource Development Ministry said, a lot of excitement and enthusiasm is being seen among the students, teachers and parents to not only participate in the unique event but also to receive valuable tips from the Prime Minister.
  
  
• TRAI amends new regulatory framework for cable & broadcasting services
  Telecom Regulatory Authority of India, TRAI has made amendments to the new regulatory framework for cable and broadcasting services with a view to protect the consumer interests.
  
  Under it, cable TV users will be able to access more channels at lower subion price.
  
  The Authority has also capped at 160 rupees the amount consumers will have to pay monthly for all free to air channels.
  
  Consumers have also highlighted huge charges taken by Distribution Platform Operators (DPOs) in the form of Network Capacity Fee -NCF for a multi-TV home.
  
  The homes where more than one TV connection is working in the name of one person, it will charge maximum 40 per cent of declared NCF for second and additional TV connections.
  
  Authority has also permitted DPOs to offer discounts on long term subions which is for 6 months or more.
  
  TRAI has also reduced the maximum NCF charge to 130 rupees excluding taxes for 200 channels.
  
  In addition, it has also been decided that channels declared mandatory by Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will not be counted in the number of channels in the NCF.
  
  Only those channels which have an MRP of 12 rupees or less will be permitted to be part of the bouquet offered by broadcasters.
  
  
• Bengaluru’s University of Agricultural Sciences to host Indian Science Congress from 3rd Jan
  The University of Agricultural Sciences in Bengaluru is all set to host the 107th Indian Science Congress from 3rd to 7th January, 2020.
  
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the conference to be attended by over 15,000 delegates including Nobel laureates, scientists, academicians, students, farmers among others.
  
  The General President of the Indian Science Congress Association, Prof. K S Rangappa has informed that 1500 scientific papers and 5700 posters will be laid in 14 scientific disciplines.
  
  There are 26 plenary sessions lined up for the science buffs.
  
  Women, Farmers, Children and Science communicators will have exclusive deliberations during this science congress. AIR correspondent reports, the Pride of India exhibition is one of the attractions during the Science show.
  
  Over 130 participants are exhibiting technologies, machineries, equipments and science models.
  
  Farmers’ congress being organised for the first time will focus on innovation in the integrated agriculture and entrepreneurship, climate change, bio-diversity, agrarian distress, rural bio entrepreneurship and policy issues.
  
  In the three technical sessions on agriculture, around 10 innovative farmers will present their views.
  
  ISCA has introduced a comprehensive mobile app ISC 2020 UASB to provide details of all the sessions.
  
  
• Atal Kisan- Mazdoor Canteen launched in Karnal
  Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar inaugurated the state’s first Atal Kisan- Mazdoor canteens at the Karnal grain market on 29 Dec 2019.
  
  At this canteen, farmers and labourers coming to the mandi will get a Veg-thali comprising four chapatis, rice, dal and seasonal vegetable, all for Rs 10.
  
  Ten women from a self-help group (SHG) have been appointed to prepare the food.
  
  
• Over one crore FASTags issued for vehicles
  Over one crore FASTags have been issued for the vehicles with more than one lakh being issued every day.
  
  FASTag provides smooth journey to commuters who pass through toll plazas on National Highways.
  
  The Electronic Toll Collection through FASTag was implemented from 15 Dec 2019.
  
  In order to simplify the recharge of FASTag, government has recently included BHIM (UPI) App payment mechanism.
  
  
• Indian Railways launches integrated helpline number 139 for passengers
  The Indian Railways has integrated its helpline numbers into a single number -- 139 for quick grievance redressal and enquiries by passengers during their train journeys.
  
  The new helpline number 139 will take over all the existing helpline numbers.
  
  It will be easy for passengers to remember this number and connect with Railways for all their needs during train travel.
  
  The Helpline 139 will be available in twelve languages.
  
  It will be based on Interactive Voice Response System.
  
  A call can be made on this number from any mobile phone and not just smart phones, thus, providing easy access to all mobile users.
  
  
• General Bipin Rawat proposes creation of Air Defence Command by June 30
  Chief of the Defence Staff, CDS General Bipin Rawat has directed various branch heads to come up with recommendations for inter-service synergy and jointness in a time bound manner.
  
  After assuming charge as CDS, General Rawat held a meeting with important functionaries of Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff.
  
  He also directed that a proposal to create Air Defence Command be prepared by 30th June, 2020.
  
  He also set out priorities for execution of synergy by 30th June and 31st December, 2020.
  
  Some of the areas identified for jointness and synergy include creation of common logistics support pools in stations where two or more services have their presence.
  
  Emphasizing collegiate system of functioning, General Rawat directed that all three services and Coast Guard must be consulted and their views obtained in a time bound manner.
  
  However, decisions will be taken to ensure optimization of resources. Efforts will be made to cut out infructuous ceremonial activities, which are manpower intensive.
  
  The Chief of the Defence Staff stressed that all must work towards accomplishing desired results and coming up with healthy views and ideas.
  
  
• HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal to inaugurate 28th New Delhi World Book Fair
  Human Resources Development Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal will inaugurate the 28th edition of annual New Delhi World Book Fair on 4 January, 2020 at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi.
  
  The book fair organised by National Book Trust (NBT) will be held from January 4 to 12 in the national capital.
  
  Eminent Gandhian scholar Girishwar Mishra will be the chief guest on the occasion.
  
  As part of Mahatma Gandhiji's 150 birth anniversary celebrations, the theme of this year is Gandhi:The Writers' Writer said Professor Govind Prasad Sharma, Chairman , NBT.
  
  The fair will be open to the public from 11 am to 8 pm. Other features at the fair will include -- Theme pavilion, authors' corner, seminar hall, braille books, children's pavilion and foreign countries' pavilion.
  
  
• Maharashtra Government launches ‘Cyber Safe Women’ initiative
  Maharashtra Government has launched a ‘Cyber Safe Women’ initiative under which awareness camps will be held across all the districts of the state regarding cyber safety.
  
  The initiative will help in educating women about how the web is used by anti-social elements and child predators to commit various types of crimes.
  
  Rising instances of cyber-crime need to be curbed and the government is looking to take all measures to ensure that women and children do not fall prey to these criminal activities.
  
  
• National Green Corps scheme revived in J&K
  The National Green Corps scheme, which was closed for over a decade, has been revived for Jammu and Kashmir.
  
  Under this scheme, the Pollution Control Board (PCB) would provide financial assistance to 3,742 Eco Clubs of registered schools in both the regions of the UT.
  
  The Environment and Forests Ministry has approved the release of Grant-in-Aid of 2.60 crore rupees to J&K PCB.
  
  
• Union Minister Amit Shah inaugurates new campus of NFSC in Nagpur
  In Maharashtra, Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurates the new campus of National Fire Service College (NFSC) in Nagpur on 2 Jan 2020.
  
  He also laid the foundation stone of the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) academy.
  
  In the same function organised at National Fire Service College, he conferred the 15 President's fire service medal for gallantry.
  
  
• PM Narendra Modi disburses 12,000 crore rupees to six crore farmers
  Prime Minister Narendra Modi electronically released 12,000 crore rupees under Pradhan Mantri Samaan Yojana to six crore farmers in Tumakuru.
  
  He awarded the Krishi Karman Award to the progressive farmers from 21 states. Tamil Nadu and Karnataka gave deep sea fishing boats and transponders that will help them to navigate in the deep sea.
  
  Prime Minister emphasized on agro exports, value-addition of produce, marketing, and doubling of farmers income by 2022.
  
  The individual programs are launched for coffee, rubber, coconut, cashew, and pulses.
  
  The government is committed to improving irrigation facilities and providing skills to the agriculturists.
  
  
• UIDAI opened 28 new Aadhaar Seva Kendras
  The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has opened 28 Aadhaar Seva Kendras as part of its plan to open 114 Aadhaar Enrolments and Update Centres across the country.
  
  These are in addition to about 38,000 Aadhaar enrolment centres run by Banks, Post Offices and State Governments.
  
  These Aadhaar Seva Kendras have a capacity to handle up to 1,000 enrollments and requests per day.
  
  
• NHRC issues notice to Rajasthan govt over reported deaths of over 100 children
  National Human Rights Commission, NHRC has issued notice to Rajasthan Government over the reported deaths of over 100 children in Kota Government Hospital.
  
  Taking suo motu cognizance of media reports, the commission asked the State Chief Secretary to submit a detailed report within four weeks in the matter including the steps being taken to address the issue.
  
  It also directed the State Government to ensure that such deaths do not recur in future due to lack of infrastructure and health facilities at the hospitals.
  
  Over 50 per cent of the gadgets installed in the hospital are defunct and the hospital is lacking cleanliness and basic infrastructure including oxygen supply in the Intensive Care Unit.
  
  The commission has observed that the contents of the media reports, if true, raise serious issue of violation of human rights.
  
  
• BSF will apprehend if anyone tries to trespass IB without proper documents: BSF IG in Meghalaya
  In Meghalaya, the Border Security Force (BSF) informed that there are reports of Bangladesh nationals crossing back to Bangladesh and are being apprehended by the Bangladesh Border Guards (BBG).
  
  But, the sources maintained that none of the incidents took place from the Meghalaya stretch of the international border with Bangladesh.
  
  The BSF personnel are manning the borders and meetings are being held on a regular basis with headmen for any movements of foreign nationals.
  
  The BSF will apprehend if anyone tries to trespass the international border without proper documents, he informed.
  
  Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) Director General Maj. Gen. Md Shafeenul Islam had recently informed that around 1,000 people were arrested in 2019 for illegal border crossings from India to Bangladesh and that 445 Bangladeshi nationals returned from India in the last two months.
  
  
• Delhi CEO office's voters helpline to have dedicated facility for persons with disability
  The Office of Chief Electoral Officer, Delhi has made a special arrangement by way of toll free Voter Helpline number 1950 through which Persons with Disability can register grievances.
  
  In view of upcoming Delhi Assembly Elections, they have taken this unique step to ensure maximum participation of PwD voters.
  
  The Voter Helpline Number is available in two languages - English and Hindi - for grievance registration.
  
  This facility informs, educates and communicates about election related information.
  
  Now, a new feature has been added which empowers the Persons with Disability to register their complaints directly.
  
  
• WHO designated 2020 as Year of Nurse and Midwife
  World Health Organization (WHO) designated 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and the Midwife.
  
  It is done to honor the 200th birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale.
  
  WHO is the collaborating partner in the three- year Nursing Now Campaign (2018–2020).
  
  The main objective of the campaign is to improve health globally by raising the status and profile of nursing.
  
  
• Gold cards to be issued under Ayushman Bharat
  According to Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare Ashwini Kumar Choubey, two to three crore premium Gold cards will be issued under the Central Government’s flagship Ayushman Bharat scheme.
  
  Gold cardholders will be able to avail free medical services in hospitals anywhere in the country.
  
  Nine new medical colleges are being started in Tamilnadu.
  
  
• 'One Nation One Ration Card' scheme
  Union Minister Ram Vilas Paswan has said that ''One Nation One Ration Card'' scheme has been implemented in 12 states.
  
  The 12 states are Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana, Rajasthan, Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Tripura, and Jharkhand.
  
  Under this scheme, beneficiaries can buy subsidised food grains from ration shops in any of these 12 states.
  
  
• Gujarat CM unveils world second tallest statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
  Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani unveils the second tallest statue of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the world at Ahmedabad.
  
  Around 50 feet tall bronze statue with a weight of 70 thousand kilograms unveiled at the Sardardham campus near the Vaishnodevi Circle in Ahmedabad.
  
  It is the second-highest statue of India’s first home minister after the Statue of Unity of the legendary leader situated at Kevadiya in the Narmada district of Central Gujarat.
  
  Sardar Patel designed by Padma Bhusan Ram V. Sutar, the Statue of Unity.
  
  Chief Minister Vijay Rupani the highest and second highest statue of Sardar Patel, the architect of united India is situated in his home state.

Published date : 20 Jan 2020 05:24PM