Sakshi Education
- “Sweet Revolution and Atmanirbhar Bharat“
A webinar had been organised by the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) on the theme “Sweet Revolution and Atmanirbhar Bharat.”
Key Details
The webinar was conducted by the National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) on the theme “Sweet Revolution and AtmaNirbhar Bharat” in partnership with the National Bee Board, the Government of West Bengal, the Government of Uttarakhand and the Sher-e- Kashmir University of Agriculture Sciences and Technology, Kashmir.
The objective was to popularize scientific beekeeping as source of livelihood for landless rural poor, small and marginal famers to supplement agricultural income, as also as tool to enhance agriculture and horticulture production.
National Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM)?
A new Central Sector Scheme “National Beekeeping and Honey Mission (NBHM)” for overall promotion & development of scientific beekeeping and production of quality honey & other beehive products was approved by the Govt. of India keeping in mind the vision of “Sweet Revolution.”
The scheme will be implemented through National Bee Board as a Central Sector Scheme (100% funded by Central Govt.).
The NBHM will have following sub-schemes/ three Mini Missions:
Mini Mission-I: Under this Mission, thrust will be given on production & productivity improvement of various crops through pollination assisted by adoption of scientific beekeeping;
Mini Mission-II: This Mission will concentrate on post harvest management of beekeeping/ beehive products including collection, processing, storage, marketing, value addition, etc. with a thrust to develop requisite infrastructural facilities for these activities; and
Mini Mission-III: This Mission will concentrate on Research & Technology generation for different Regions/ States/ Agro-Climatic and Socio-Economic conditions.
The National Bee Board under the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare, will be a National Level Nodal Agency for overall holistic development and promotion of beekeeping sector at National level under NBHM for implementation of activities.
National Beekeeping & Honey Mission (NBHM) will be implemented through National Bee Board (NBB) as a Central Sector (100% funded by Central Government) component under the existing vertical “Mission on Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH)”, as a part of the Centrally Sponsored Scheme “Green Revolution”.
- Placebo effect in Mumbai
Homeopathy drug, Arsenicum Album 30, which is untested for efficacy against COVID-19 is being widely distributed in Mumbai as a feel-good factor for constituents.
According to the experts, there is no data exists which reflects the efficacy of this drug against COVID-19.
What is Placebo Effect?
A placebo is anything that seems to be a “real” medical treatment — but isn’t. It could be a pill, a shot, or some other type of “fake” treatment. What all placebos have in common is that they do not contain an active substance meant to affect health.
Researchers use placebos during studies to help them understand what effect a new drug or some other treatment might have on a particular condition.
Sometimes a person can have a response to a placebo. The response can be positive or negative. For instance, the person’s symptoms may improve. Or the person may have what appears to be side effects from the treatment. These responses are known as the “Placebo effect.”
There are some conditions in which a placebo can produce results even when people know they are taking a placebo. These includes depression, pain, sleep disorders, irritable bowel syndrome and menopause.
According to the research on the placebo effect, it is found that it focused on the relationship of mind and body. One of the most common theories is that the placebo effect is due to a person’s expectations.
If a person expects a pill to do something, then it’s possible that the body’s own chemistry can cause effects similar to what a medication might have caused.
- ReStart Programme for MSMEs by Andhra Pradesh
In a recent move, Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh has launched “ReStart Programme” for MSMEs to support the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) sector in the State.
What you need to know about the ReStart Program for MSMEs?
As part of the package, the government will spend Rs. 1,100 crore on revival of the sector which is expected to benefit 98,000 units that provide employment to more than 10 lakh people.
Apart from above, a special fund of Rs.200 crore will provide input capital loan to the firms at low interest rates.
As part of the Scheme, the minimum power demand charges of the MSMEs for the months of April, May and June, amounting to Rs. 188 crore to be waived off.
Further, the government will purchase around 360 products from the MSMEs, and payments towards it would be cleared in 45 days. Of the total purchases,
Almost 25% would be done from the micro and small enterprises.
4% from the SC/ST community enterprises.
3% from women entrepreneurs.
Skills required by the industries (MSMEs) will be imparted through Skill Development Colleges.
- UN lists khudol of Manipur as one of top 10 global initiatives to fight COVID-19 pandemic
The United Nations (UN) has listed Manipur’s "khudol" (gift) among the top 10 global initiatives for an inclusive fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. It was listed by the United Nations Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth.
Khudol:
Khudol is a crowd funded initiative of Ya_All,.
The initiative aims to ensure food supplies and health services for the people living with HIV, daily-wage earners, LGBTQI+ community, children, and adolescents.
Under the initiative network of 100 volunteers has been mobilized.
The volunteers have, so far, provided around 2,000 families and individuals with over 1,000 health kits, 6,500 sanitary pads, and 1,500 condoms.
- Centre directs Jal Shakti Ministry, NITI Aayog to study the feasibility of drinking water project for Udayagiri in AP
Government of India directed the Jal Shakti Ministry and NITI Aayog to study the feasibility of drinking water project for Udayagiri in Andhra Pradesh. The decision was made in a meeting held by the Vice President of India Venkiah Naidu with Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI Aayog and ParameswaranIyer, Secretary, Drinking Water & Sanitation, and Shri U.P. Singh, Secretary, Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation.
Highlights:
The officials discussed various possible ways to meet the drinking water and irrigation needs of the drought-prone Udayagiri area, Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh.
The officials of Jal Shakti Ministry and NITI Aayog have been directed to explore various options in consultation with the Government of Andhra Pradesh and look for the most feasible option.
The Vice President advised Secretary, Water Resources to discuss with Central Water Commission and find out about the technical feasibility.
GoI suggested that the Detailed Project Report (DPR) and the various ongoing efforts of the State Government to mitigate the water crisis including through the Water Grid project could be studied.
The officials will visit the area and interact with the concerned stakeholders to understand the ground reality and suggest a way forward.
- “ShahiLichi”and “Zardalu Mango“
The Department of Posts, Government of India and Department of Horticulture, Government of Bihar have joined hands to supply ”ShahiLichi” & “Zardalu Mango” to the people at doorstep.
This facility of online delivery will be initially available to people of Muzaffarpur& Patna for ”ShahiLichi” & Patna & Bhagalpur for “Zardalu Mango”.
Lichi will be booked minimum for 2 kgs and mangoes for 5 kgs.
Key Takeaways
The ”ShahiLichi” of Muzaffarpur (Bihar) & “Zardalu Mango” of Bhagalpur(Bihar) are famous in world by virtue of their unique fragrance and demand everywhere.
People can place order on website “horticulture.bihar.gov.in” online.
Key Details
ShahiLichi
The ”Shahi Litchi”, a speciality of the north Bihar district of Muzaffarpur which earned the Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2018, stands apart from other varieties by virtue of its unique fragrance and extra-juicy pulp which gives way to a smaller than usual seed.
Bihar produces 40% of the litchi grown in the country. Of the three lakh metric tonnes of different varieties of lichi produced in the state in 2017-18 fiscal, 60% were Shahi litchis.
Zardalu Mango
Zardalu is a unique mango variety from Bhagalpur. It is known for its light yellow skin and distinct special aroma. Jardalu mango, alongside Bihar’s Katarani paddy, and Magahi betel leaf, had recently got GI tag and had been listed in the one of the Geographical Indications Journal issues in 2018.
- UMANG Application | 7 services of IMD on UMANG
Key Takeaways
Prime Minister of India launched the UMANG App in 2017 to bring major government services on a single mobile app.
About 660 services from 127 departments & 25 states and about 180 utility bill payment services are live and more are in pipeline.
UMANG user base has crossed 2.1 Crore including Android, iOS, Web and KaiOS.
Why is the recent development regarding the UMANG Application?
In order to further enhance the initiatives of Digital India Programme, MeitY has brought the India MeteoLological Department (IMD) services on the “UMANG Application”.
The following 7 services hosted on http://mausam.imd.gov.in web site of IMD have been on-boarded on UMANG Mobile application:
Current Weather: This includes current temperature, humidity, wind speed, direction for 150 cities updated 8 times a day. Information on sunrise/ sunset and moonrise/ moonset is also given.
Nowcast: This includes three hourly warnings of localized weather phenomena and their intensity issued for about 800 stations, and districts of India by State Meteorological Centers of IMD. In case of severe weather, its impact also is included in the warning.
City Forecast: In this section, past 24 hours and 7 day forecast of weather conditions around 450 cities in India are given.
Rainfall Information: Here, all India district Rainfall information daily, weekly, monthly and cumulative series are available.
Tourism Forecast: This section provides past 24 hours and 7 day forecast of weather conditions of around 100 Tourist cities in India.
Warnings: By this section, the alert is issued to warn citizens of approaching dangerous weather. It is colour coded in Red, Orange and Yellow are the alert levels with Red as the most severe category. Issued twice a day for all districts for the coming five days.
Cyclone: Cyclone warnings and alerts provides the track of cyclonic storms along with likely time and point of crossing of coast. Impact based warnings, area/district wise, are issued so that appropriate preparation including evacuation of vulnerable areas can be done.
- NSO data says ESIC Social Security Scheme witnessed 8.21 lakh enrolments in 2020 March
The data released by the National Statistical Office (NSO) in a report titled 'Payroll Reporting in India: An Employment Perspective-March 2020' stated that around 8.21 lakh new members joined the ESIC-run social security scheme in March 2020, against 11.83 lakh in February 2020. The NSO data included the payroll data of the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC).
Highlights:
The data highlighted that the subscribers to the scheme in 2018-19 were 1.49 crore. This count increased to 3.83 crore in March 2020.
It stated that during fiscal 2019-20, the number of net new subscribers increased to 78.58 lakh as compared to 61.12 lakh recorded by the EPFO in 2018-19.
- HIL INDIA to provide locust control Pesticide to Iran
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers announced that HIL INDIA, a PSU under the Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals, is to produce and supply the pesticides for the farming community, amid the COVID-19 lockdown.
HIL is to supply 25 MT Malathion Technical for supply to locust control programme to Iran under Government to Government arrangement. Recently, the Credit rating of HIL INDIA was upgraded to BBB from BB. The rating marks a stable investment grade.
Other measures of HIL India:
HIL signed an agreement with the Ministry of Agriculture and Famers Welfare for the supply of Malathion Technical to Rajasthan and Gujarat for the Locust Control Programme. So far, the company has manufactured and supplied 67 MT of Malathion Technical.
HIL supplied to malathion Technical to municipal corporations for dengue and chikungunya control program.
HIL India has exported 10 MT of fungicide 'Mancozeb' to Peru and another 12 MT is to be exported.
It also supplied 314 MT of DDT 50% wdp to various states like Rajasthan, Punjab, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, etc was executed as per the supply order placed by the Ministry of family welfares, NVBDCP programmes.
During the lockdown period, HIL produced 120 MT of Malathion Technical, 120.40 MT of DDT Technical, 288 MT of DDT 50%, 21 MT of HILGOLD (Water Soluble Fertilizer), 12 MT of Mancozeb Fungicide for Exports and 35 MT of different agrochemical formulations.
- IAF to operationalize its No.18 Squadron at Coimbatore, TN
The Indian Air Force (IAF) is to operationalize its No.18 Squadron at Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu on 27 May. IAF chief, Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria is expected to operationalize the squadron "Flying Bullets" at the Sulur Air Force Station near Coimbatore, TN.
Highlights:
No.18 Squadron is equipped with the fourth generation LCA Tejas FOC (final operation clearance) aircraft. It will be the second IAF Squadron to fly Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
LCA Tejas aircraft is equipped with a fly-by-wire flight control system, integrated digital avionics, multimode radar, and its structure is made of composite material.
No.18 Squadron was formed in 1965. The motto is "TeevraaurNirbhaya" (meaning "Swift and Fearless") was earlier flying MiG 27 aircraft.
- Nitin Gadkari inaugurated Chamba Tunnel under Chardham Pariyojana
Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways and MSMEs Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the Chamba Tunnel in Uttarakhand under Chardham Pariyojana through video conference mode on 26 May 2020. The tunnel was constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Highlights:
The major milestone was achieved by BRO by digging up a 440 m long Tunnel below the busy Chamba town on Rishikesh-Dharasu road Highway (NH 94), Uttarakhand.
The tunnel will ease out congestion through the Chamba town and reduce the distance by one kilometer. The journey through the town will take only 10 minutes as compared to 30 minutes earlier.
The project was completed ahead of the deadline, which was earlier set as October 2020.
BRO began the work on the North Portal of this tunnel in January 2019.
The tunnel is a Horseshoe type tunnel with a 10 metre carriageway width and 5.5 metre vertical clearance.
Other ongoing projects of BRO are:
Dharasu- Gangotri Highway (NH-108) KM 110-123 by June 2020.
Rishikesh- DharasuHighway (NH-94) Km28-59 by July 2020.
Rishikesh- Dharasu Highway (NH-94) Km 59-65 including Chamba Tunnel by October 2020.
Chinialisaur bye-pass on Rishikesh- Dharasu Highway (NH-94) by October 2020.
- REC Ltd partners with TajSATS to provide nutritious meals to frontline healthcare workers
REC Foundation, the CSR arm of REC Limited, has tied up with TajSATS, a joint venture of IHCL and SATS Ltd, to distribute specially-made nutritious meal packets for medical staff in Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi.
Highlights:
Under this tie-up, every day, 300 food packets are being delivered to the frontline healthcare warriors of New Delhi.
Over 18,000 meals will be delivered in New Delhi through this initiative.
REC Limited is spearheading the mission to feed the medical staff in key government hospitals as well as poor daily wage labourers across the nation, through collaborative efforts.
REC Limited:
REC Limited, formerly Rural Electrification Corporation Limited, was established in 1969. The NBFC is focusing on Power Sector Financing and Development across India. It provides financial assistance across the power sector value chain. Apart from this, REC is the nodal agency for the Government of India flagship schemes in the Power sector like DeendayalUpadhyaya Gram JyotiYojana (DDUGJY), Saubhagya, etc.
- PFC signs MoU with NBPCL to fund 225 MW hydro-electric projects, Multipurpose projects in MP
Power Finance Corporation (PFC), the central PSU under the Ministry of Power and India's leading NBFC, signed an agreement with Narmada Basin Projects Company Ltd. (NBPCL), a wholly-owned company of Government of Madhya Pradesh on 26 May 2020.
The move aims to fund projects worth Rs.22,000crore for 225 MW hydro-electric projects & multipurpose projects in the State of Madhya Pradesh.
Highlights:
As per the agreement, the funds will be deployed by NBPCL for setting up hydroelectric projects of 225 MW and power components of 12 major multipurpose projects in Madhya Pradesh.
The Government of Madhya Pradesh has conducted the pre-feasibility study of these projects and has provided approval for their execution.
The disbursal of the amount will be linked to the execution of the projects.
Under the MoU, PFC will actively partner with NBPCL and provide finance for hydro-electric plants totaling 225 MW along with power components of multipurpose projects as part of the state government’s endeavor to implement twelve major multipurpose projects.
The major multipurpose projects that will be financed under the MoU are Chinki Boras Multipurpose Project NarsinghpurRaisenHoshangabad, Basaniya Multipurpose Project Dindori, SakkarPench Link NarsinghpurChhindwara, Dudhi Project ChhindwaraHoshangabad, etc.
- Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana aims to enhance fish production in the country
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) has announced its plan to enhance fish production to 220 lakh metric tons (MT) by 2024-25 from 137.58 lakh MT in 2018-19 at an average annual growth rate of about 9%.
The announcement was made by the Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying Giriraj Singh.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana:
The scheme will bring about Blue Revolution through the sustainable and responsible development of the fisheries sector in India.
PMMSY scheme will be implemented over a period of 5 years from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25 in all States/Union Territories.
The scheme aims to double export earnings to Rs.1,00,000crore.
It also aims to generate about 55 lakh direct and indirect employment opportunities in the fisheries sector.
The scheme is dedicated to aiding the fishers, fish farmers, fish workers, fish vendors, and other stakeholders associated with the fisheries sector.
The scheme will envisage an estimated investment of Rs.20,050crores comprising a Central share of Rs.9,407 crore, the State share of Rs.4,880 crore, and Beneficiaries contribution of Rs.5,763 crore.
The PMMSY aims to infuse new and emerging technologies like Re-circulatory Aquaculture Systems, Biofloc, Aquaponics, Cage Cultivation, etc. to enhance production and productivity, productive utilization of wastelands and water for Aquaculture.
- CoAST India Platform | A GIS-Based Dashboard
Indian Observatory, which is basically an open source database, has developed CoAST India Platform, a GIS-enabled dashboard to trace the migrant workers during their long journey.
What you need to know about CoAST India Platform?
CoAST India is short for “Collaboration/Covid Action Support Group” is a GIS-enabled dashboard which includes an India map reflecting the movement of migrants in real time on their long journeys, often on foot, along with facilities and relief organisations on their routes.
The platform is a collaboration of Indian Observatory with Anand-based Forest Ecological Security (FES) which acts as its main nodal point.
The CoAST India Platform draws information from 55 organisations on the ground, which is mostly located in villages, and aims to make such data available so that it would enable governments and small local civil society groups to be of assistance.
The map matches “time and spatial data, on administrative facilities in the area, transportation and healthcare facilities of an area and summaries, on the fly, in real time of people passing by.”
The map is available free in 12 different languages.
- Modified PM Vaya Vandana Yojana
This plan will be available for sale commencing from May 26 for 3 financial years – up to March 31, 2023.
LIC is solely authorised to operate this scheme, which works as a Non-Linked, Non-Participating, Pension Scheme subsidised by the Centre.
Modified PM Vaya Vandana Yojana (Modified-2020) Scheme?
Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) announced the launch of the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (Modified- 2020) Scheme. This plan will be available for sale commencing from May 26 for 3 financial years – up to March 31, 2023.
This scheme can be purchased offline as well as online from LIC of India.
The Union Cabinet had earlier this month extended the PMVVY or PradhanMantriVayaVandanaYojana, which is a social security scheme for senior citizens.
LIC is solely authorised to operate this scheme, which works as a Non-Linked, Non-Participating, Pension Scheme subsidised by the Centre.
The policy term is of 10 years and for policies sold during the first financial year — up to March 31, 2021, the scheme will provide an assured rate of return of 7.40 per cent per annum payable monthly (which is equivalent to 7.66 per cent per annum) for the entire duration of 10 years.
Benefits Under the Scheme
Initially the scheme will provide an assured rate of return of 7.40 % per annum for the year 2020-21 per annum and thereafter to be reset every year.
Pension is payable at the end of each period, during the policy term of 10 years, as per the frequency of monthly/ quarterly/ half-yearly/ yearly as chosen by the pensioner at the time of purchase.
The scheme is exempted from GST.
On survival of the pensioner to the end of the policy term of 10 years, purchase price along with final pension installment shall be payable.
Loan upto 75% of Purchase Price shall be allowed after 3 policy years (to meet the liquidity needs).
Loan interest shall be recovered from the pension installments and loan to be recovered from claim proceeds.
The scheme also allows for premature exit for the treatment of any critical/ terminal illness of self or spouse. On such premature exit, 98% of the Purchase Price shall be refunded.
On death of the pensioner during the policy term of 10 years, the Purchase Price shall be paid to the beneficiary.
The ceiling of maximum pension is for a family as a whole, the family will comprise of pensioner, his/her spouse and dependants.
The shortfall owing to the difference between the interest guaranteed and the actual interest earned and the expenses relating to administration shall be subsidized by the Government of India and reimbursed to the Corporation.
Eligibility under the Scheme
Minimum Entry Age: 60 years (completed)
Maximum Entry Age: No limit
Policy Term : 10 years
Investment limit : Rs 15 lakh per senior citizen
Minimum Pension: Rs. 1,000/- per month
Rs. 3,000/- per quarter
Rs.6,000/- per half-year
Rs.12,000/- per year.
Maximum Pension: Rs. 12,000/- per month
Rs. 30,000/- per quarter
Rs. 60,000/- per half-year
Rs. 1,20,000/- per year
- Van Dhan Webinar: Learning for post COVID-19
A Webinar under Know Your Scheme-Lecture Series on “Van Dhan Yojana : Learning For Post Covid-19” was organized by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Rajasthan in association with Trifed, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India.
Key Takeaways
The tribal gatherers can be one of the worst affected in these trying times, since this is the peak season for harvesting Non Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) in many regions.
The biggest challenge for tribal artisans, however, is to market their products effectively and make more people aware of the top quality items they develop.
The webinar organized by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Rajasthan in association with TRIFED, Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India, addressed the various initiatives taken by the TRIFED for tribals in the country.
BACKGROUND:
The webinar conducted addressed the various initiatives taken by the TRIFED for tribals in the country. These includes:
TRIBES India: TRIFED (under Ministry of Tribal Affairs) has been playing an instrumental role in this regard by procuring tribal-made products and selling them to the masses in India and worldwide under the banner of TRIBES India.
#GoTribal Campaign: It have launched a #GoTribal campaign and are growing from strength to strength via opening up of over 120 permanent outlets aross the country (including airports), ecommerce platforms.
Aadi Mahotsav: Organizing grand ‘Aadi Mahotsavs and entering into tie-ups for providing training to the artisans for further capcity building, quality improvement and market alignment are other important activities by TRIFED.
‘Tech for Tribals’: TRIFED is also going forward with ‘Tech for Tribals’ initiative by partnering with leading IITs and IIMs of the country along with the Ministry of MSME to form an Entrepreneurship Skill Development Program.
#iStandWithHumanity Initiative: TRIFED has collaborated with the Art of Living Foundation’s #iStandWithHumanity Initiative through a Stand With Tribal Families component in providing much needed Ration Kits for survival of the tribal community.
Ration Kits have already been distributed across various regions of Kashmir, Telangana, Maharashtra, Karnataka and distribution is being planned for other parts of the country as well.
Van Dhan Samajik Doori Jagrookta Abhiyaan: TRIFED also initiated Van Dhan Samajik Doori Jagrookta Abhiyaan in association with UNICEF, under which tribals are being provided with crucial information regarding COVID-19 with several guidelines, nationwide and state-specific webinars and instructions on safety measures to be followed.
Minimum Support Prices of Non Timber Forest Produce (NTFP) items: The Ministry of Tribal Affairs has also revised the Minimum Support Prices of NTFP items to provide much needed relief to forest gatherers in these trying times.
- Shiv Linga unearthed by Archaeological Survey of India
Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) unearthed a Shiv Linga or representation of the Hindu deity Shiva dating back to the 9th century at Cham temple complex in Vietnam during restoration work.
The development underscored the “civilisational connect” between the two countries and was also a “great cultural example of India’s development partnership.”
Excavation of Shiv Linga
The Shiv Linga or the Representation of the Hindu Deity “SHIVA” has been unearthed by the Archaeological Survey of India at Cham temple complex, Vietnam.
The Cham Temple complex is a part of the UNESCO world heritage site of My Son in Quang Nam province of Vietnam.
It was built in the 9th century AD during the reign of King Indravarman II, who was also responsible for the famous Dong Duong Buddhist monastery in the same region.
French experts discovered the temple complex in a dilapidated condition in 1903-04.
During excavations at that time, French archaeologists had described the presence of a Shiv Linga in the group of temples that is currently being renovated.
However, due to limited excavation capabilities in those days, this Shiv Linga could not be recovered.
Subsequently, political disturbances and wars in Vietnam led to destruction of the temple complex.
The external affairs ministry created a new Development Partnership Division (DPA-IV) in January to coordinate and undertake culture and heritage conservation projects abroad.
- Criminal Defamation Law | Recent Madras HC Order
According to a recent decision by the Madras High Court, the public servants and constitutional functionaries cannot be allowed to misuse the law of criminal defamation by using the State as a tool to initiate defamation proceedings against adversaries.
BACKGROUND:
The Madras HC quashed criminal defamation proceedings launched by the Madras state government against a host of media houses and journalists, during Jayalalithaa’s tenure as Chief Minister in 2012 and 2013.
It was cleared out that the publications in the newspapers were factual news and the quoted statements of the politicians.
There was no criminal defamation in the case as the newspapers had not made any personal imputation against anyone.
However, some media houses can be prosecuted by the aggrieved, in their individual capacity, before a Judicial Magistrate under Section 199 (6) of Code of Criminal Procedure but not before a Sessions Court since no defamation against the State had been made out.
Defamation in India
In India, defamation can both be a civil wrong as well as a criminal offence. The basic difference between the two lies in the objects they seek to achieve.
A civil wrong tends to provide for a redressal of wrongs by awarding compensation.
A criminal law seeks to punish a wrongdoer and send a message to others not to commit such acts.
In Indian laws, criminal defamation has been specifically defined as an offence under the section 499 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) whereas the civil defamation is based on tort law (an area of law which does not rely on statutes to define wrongs but takes from ever-increasing body of case laws to define what would constitute a wrong).
- Governor modifies law on forest rights
Maharashtra Governor has modified the Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, allowing rightful claimants of forest rights to appeal against decisions of the district level committee (DLC).
BACKGROUND:
A notification issued says that the Governor has modified Section 6 of the Act, in its application to Scheduled Area of the State of Maharashtra, in exercise of the powers conferred on him by Schedule V of the Constitution.
The Governor’s office said the notification is important to provide justice to tribals whose ‘individual or community forest right’ has been rejected by the DLC, constituted under the Forest Rights Act (FRA).
Despite a large number of applications being rejected, there was no provision for appeal.
The notification applies to areas covered in the Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act in the State and allows appeal provision against the DLC’s decision.
The notification states that divisional level committees under the chairmanship of divisional commissioners have been constituted to hear the appeals against the DLC’s decisions.
In the case of an order passed by the DLC before commencement of the notification, the appeal needs to be made within six months. However, if an order has been passed after commencement of the notification, the application has to be made within 90 days.
- Delimitation Commission of India
The Delimitation Commission of India held its second meeting on 28th May, 2020, to review the progress of direction given by the Commission in its first meeting held on 29th April,2020.
Earlier there was slight delay in organizing the first meeting due to ongoing lock down because of Covid 19 pandemic.
What is Delimitation?
Delimitation refers to the act or process by which limits or boundaries of territorial constituencies are fixed in a country to represent changes in the population.
Why the procedure of Delimitation is practiced?
The Delimitation process is followed to provide equal representation to equal segments of a population.
With the help of delimitation, fair division of geographical areas can take place which in turn ensure that one political party doesn’t have an advantage over others in an election.
Apart from above, delimitation ensures the compliance of the principle of “One Vote One Value”.
BACKGROUND:
As per the Indian Constitution, under Article 82, the Parliament enacts a Delimitation Act after every Census.
Further, as per Article 170, States also get divided into territorial constituencies as per Delimitation Act after every Census.
Once the Delimitation Act is in force, the Union government sets up a Delimitation Commission of India.
The first delimitation exercise was carried out by the President (with the help of the Election Commission) in 1950-51. The Delimitation Commission Act was enacted in 1952.
Delimitation Commissions have been set up four times — 1952, 1963, 1973 and 2002 under the Acts of 1952, 1962, 1972 and 2002.
There was no delimitation after the 1981 and 1991 Censuses.
- Hindi as official language in Haryana courts challenged
The Haryana Government’s decision to enforce the use of Hindi language in all courts and tribunals across the state has been challenged in the Supreme Court.
Petitioners’ Arguments
Their petition contends that the Haryana Official Language (Amendment) Act of 2020 has unconstitutionally and arbitrarily imposed Hindi as the sole official language to be used in lower courts across the State.
The lawyers have argued that English is widely used by advocates and the subordinate judiciary in lower courts in justice administration work.
The imposition of Hindi as the sole language would result in an unreasonable classification between lawyers who are fluent in Hindi and those who are not.
They argued that the amendment was a violation of the fundamental right to equality, freedom to practice a profession of choice, dignity and livelihood.
The argument forwarded by those favouring Hindi
They won’t feel alien in their own country, if Hindi is made the language for usage in office.
The Haryana cabinet expressed its interest to get the Hindi language authorized for use in the courts so that the citizens of Haryana can understand the entire process as it will be in their own language and it will also enable them to easily put their views before the Courts.
Language of SC and HC
Article 348 (1) of the Constitution of India provides that all proceedings in the Supreme Court and in every High Court shall be in the English Language until Parliament by law otherwise provides.
Code of Civil Procedure, 1908- Section 137 speaks about Language of Subordinate Courts
(2) The State Government may declare what shall be the language of any such Court and in what character applications to and proceedings in such Courts shall be written.
- Asian Development Bank $177 million Loan to India
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India signed a $177 million loan to upgrade 450 kilometers (km) of state highways and major district roads in the state of Maharashtra.
Loan agreement between ADB and India
OVERALL LOAN AGREEMENT: $177 million loan to upgrade 450 kilometers (km) of state highways and major district roads in the state of Maharashtra.
COVERAGE: Overall the project will upgrade 2 major district roads and 11 state highways, with combined length of 450 km, to 2-lane standard across seven districts of Maharashtra, and improve connectivity to national highways, interstate roads, seaports, airports, rail hubs, district headquarters, industrial areas, enterprise clusters and agricultural areas.
TRAINING: The project will also focus on training the Maharashtra Public Works Department project staff to build their capacity in climate change adaptation and disaster resilient features in road design, road maintenance planning and road safety.
IMPORTANCE: After signing the loan agreement, the project will improve connectivity between rural areas and urban centers in the state enabling rural communities to better access markets, employment opportunities and services.
- CIPET is renamed as Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering and Technology
Centre has been renamed the Central Institute of Plastics Engineering & Technology (CIPET), a premier national institution under the Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, as Central Institute of Petrochemicals Engineering & Technology (CIPET). The announcement was made by the Union Minister for Chemicals and Fertilizers DV Sadananda Gowda.
Highlights:
The name change has been registered under the Tamil Nadu Societies Registration Act 1975, that is, Tamil Nadu Act 27 of 1975.
CIPET will support the growth of the entire petrochemical sector with a focus on Academics, Skilling, Technology Support, and Research.
The primary objective of the Institute is to contribute towards the growth of the plastics industry through a combined program of education and research.
The Institute, so far, has created closer ties with industries with an aim to create innovative plastic-based solutions that are resource-efficient and marketable.
- NDMA develops National Migrant Information System to facilitate movement of migrant workers
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) developed an online Dashboard-National Migrant Information System (NMIS). The central online repository aims to capture the information regarding the movement of migrants and facilitate the smooth movement of stranded persons across States.
NMIS was developed after the Government of India allowed the movement of migrant workers by buses and Shramik special trains to enable them to travel to their native places.
National Migrant Information System (NMIS):
The online portal will maintain a central repository on migrant workers and help in speedy inter-State communication/co-ordination to facilitate their smooth movement to native places.
NMIS has additional advantages like contact tracing, which may be useful in overall COVID-19 response work.
The key data pertaining to the persons migrating has been standardized for uploading such as name, age, mobile number, originating and destination district, date of travel, etc., which States are already collecting.
States will be able to visualize how many people are going out from where and how many are reaching destination States.
The mobile numbers of people can be used for contact tracing and movement monitoring during COVID-19.
- e-NAM reaches milestone of 1000 Mandis across 18 States, 3 UTs
On 15 May, 38 new mandis were integrated with the e-NAM platform. With this move, the pan-India electronic agriculture trading portal, e-NAM has reached the milestone of 1,000 Mandis across 18 States and 3 Union Territories (UTS). The information was announced by the Agriculture Ministry.
Highlights:
The 38 new Mandis include 19 Mandis from Madhya Pradesh, 10 Mandis from Telangana, 4 from Maharashtra and one each in Gujarat, Haryana, Punjab, Kerala and Jammu, and Kashmir.
e-NAM has become a tool for social distancing during the COVID-19 lockdown. States/UTs are promoting virtual trading platform like e-NAM thereby reducing human intervention in the handling the produce and trading ensured through online mode.
e-NAM:
E-NAM was launched in 2016. It aims to network all the existing Mandis on a common online market platform as 'One Nation, One Market' for agricultural commodities in the country.
It also aims at reducing transaction costs, bridging information asymmetries, and helping the expansion of market access for farmers and other stakeholders. So far, e-NAM has registered a user base of 1.66 crore farmers, 1,31,000 traders, and more than 1,000 Farmers Producers Organizations.
- HRD Minister launched set of 7 titles on “Psycho-Social impact of pandemic and lockdown and how to Cope With”
Union Minister of Human Resource and Development Ramesh Pokhriyal 'Nishank' launched a set of seven titles on "Psycho-Social impact of pandemic & lockdown and how to Cope With" by NBT, India.
The titles are placed under the corona studies series of NBT. NBT brought out a remarkable and unparalleled set of books that will serve as guides to the mental well-being of people at large.
Highlights:
The Corona Studies Series was prepared by National Book Trust (NBT) to document and provide relevant reading materials for all age-groups for the post-Corona readership needs.
The first-sub series of books focused on the Psycho-Social Impact of Pandemic and how one should cope up with the current situation prepared by a Study Group comprising of seven psychologists and counsellors constituted by NBT.
The titles were launched ater a complete Study at the various aspects of Psycho-social impact on seven different segments of the society. The study was done through personal interviews, case studies and community perceptions that are based on the response to the on-line questionnaire floated through the website and other social media handles of NBT, India.
- GoI, AIIB signed a loan agreement for a USD 145 million project to improve irrigation services
Government of India (GoI), West Bengal state government, and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) signed a loan agreement for a $145 million project. The main objective is to improve flood management and irrigation services in the Damodar Valley Command Area (DVCA) in West Bengal state.
Highlight:
The West Bengal Major Irrigation and Flood Management Project aims to benefit about 2.7 million farmers from five districts of West Bengal. It will benefit over 393,964 ha area with better irrigation services and improved protection against annual flooding.
The project will improve irrigation and agriculture in the area by optimizing the use of surface and groundwater. It will also strengthen flood management, which will, in turn, boost agricultural productivity and increase incomes in rural areas.
The key challenges faced by the area is the degradation of infrastructure and inadequate irrigation management, including poor quality of service delivery, inefficient irrigation, and the failure to serve the middle and tail parts. The Lower Damodar basin area is historically flood-prone. The downstream part of the project area lacks the infrastructure to protect against recurrent flooding.
- Chhattisgarh to launch Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana
Chhattisgarh State government is to launch Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana on 21 May on the commemoration of the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The scheme is aimed to stimulate the rural economy in the state, amid the slowdown caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana:
Under the scheme, the state government will inject Rs.5100 crore into the state's rural economy by directly transferring the grant amount through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the accounts of farmers.
For this scheme, the state had made the provision for the scheme in the Budget 2020-21.
The farmers would be paid Rs.10,000 per acre for paddy, corn, and sugarcane crops, based on the registered and procured area for the Kharif season.
The scheme will benefit over 1.87 million farmers.
The state government also plans to provide a fixed amount per acre based on the registered and notified areas for pulses and oilseed crops.
- GoI, World Bank signs USD 750 million to Protect Indias Poorest from COVID-19 pandemic
The Government of India (GoI) and the World Bank signed a $750 million of $1 billion proposed for Accelerating India's COVID-19 Social Protection Response Programme. The agreement aims to support India's efforts at providing social assistance to the poor and vulnerable households, severely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Highlights:
In April 2020, the World Bank announced $1 billion support towards immediate support to India's health sector. With this, the total fund committed from the Bank towards emergency COVID-19 response in India to $2 billion.
The support by the World Bank will be funded in two phases. In the first phase, there will an immediate allocation of $750 million for the fiscal year 2020. In the second phase, a sum of $250 million second tranche will be made available for the fiscal year 2021.
This programme aims to expand the impact and coverage of India's social protection system by helping vulnerable groups access more social benefits directly and across the country.
The project will help India to move from 460 plus fragmented social protection schemes to an integrated system that is fast and more flexible, acknowledging the diversity of needs across states
It also aims to enable geographic portability of social protection benefits that can be accessed from anywhere in the country. It will ensure food, social insurance, and cash-support for all, including for migrants and the urban poor.
- Defence Minister approves Rs.400 crore Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the launch of the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS) with an outlay of Rs.400 crore. The aim is to create a state of the art testing infrastructure for the defence sector and to boost domestic defence and aerospace manufacturing.
Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme:
DTID Scheme will run for a duration of 5 years. Unser the scheme, the MoD set up 6-8 new test facilities in partnership with the private industry.
The scheme will facilitate indigenous defence production, consequently, reduce imports of military equipment and help make the country self-reliant.
The projects will be provided with up to 75% of government funding in the form of 'Grant-in-Aid'. The other 25% of the project cost will be borne by the Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), whose constituents will be Indian private entities and State Governments.
The SPVs will be registered under the Companies Act 2013.
It will operate and maintain all assets under the Scheme, in a self-sustainable manner by collecting user charges. The systems that are tested will be certified as per appropriate accreditation.
The majority of test facilities are expected to come up in the two Defence Industrial Corridors (DICs). The Scheme is not limited to setting up Test Facilities in the DICs only.
- MHA issues guidelines to specify National Directives for COVID-19 management
Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) issued the guidelines to the National Directives for COVID-19 management. The guidelines will apply to public places and workplaces. The guidelines should be followed by all persons in public places and in transport.
Highlights:
Under the guidelines issued by MHA, all the people should wear face covers is compulsory, spitting will be punishable with fine, and social distancing should be followed in public places and in transport.
In Marriage related gatherings, people shall not have more than 50 guests.
For the last rites and funerals, the maximum number of persons allowed should be 20.
The guidelines prohibit, the consumption of liquor, paan, gutkha, and tobacco in public places.
The work from home practice should be followed to the extent possible, and a staggering of work hours should be adopted.
At all entry, exit points, and common areas, provisions for thermal scanning, hand wash, and sanitizers should be provided.
In all the workplaces, social distancing should be ensured through measures like the adequate distance between workers, and adequate gaps between shifts.
- Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS)
In order to give a boost to domestic defence and aerospace manufacturing, the government has approved the launch of Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS) with an outlay of Rs 400 crore.
USAID to fund Ventilators for India
According to an official statement, India will take delivery of 200 ventilators donated by the United States within the next month.
USAID aid to India
According to the sources, the ventilators, which would be paid for by the United States Agency for International Development (USAID), will arrive in May and June in two instalments, and a final schedule of delivery will be notified next week.
While the government has not commented on the total value of the donation from the U.S., it is likely to be funded by an additional grant of $3 million that USAID had made last month.
The ventilators, which were originally built for use in the United States, that has seen more than 1.5 million cases of COVID-19, are being “repurposed” for donations to several countries, including India.
- Cyclone Amphan to hit West Bengal and Odisha
The cyclone ‘Amphan’, which is currently moving over Southeast Bay of Bengal, is likely to turn into a very severe storm and make a landfall on West Bengal coast on May 20.
Cyclone Amphan
The cyclonic storm ‘Amphan’ (pronounced as UM-PUN) is moving over Southeast Bay of Bengal and neighbourhood and has been turning north-northwestwards with a speed of 6 kmph.
According to an official statement, it is very likely to intensify further into a severe cyclonic storm during next six hours and turn into a very severe cyclonic storm during subsequent 12 hours.
The National Crisis Management Committee (NCMC) reviewed the preparedness for the impending cyclone and directed immediate assistance to West Bengal and Odisha.
- MoHUA announced results of Star rating of garbage-free cities
Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) announced results of the Star rating of garbage-free cities for the assessment year 2019-2020. A total of six cities have been certified as 5-Star, 65 cities as 3-Star, and 70 cities as 1-Star.
The results were announced by Hardeep S, Puri, Minister of State (I/C) for Housing and Urban Affairs. The revised protocol for the Star Rating Framework was also launched.
Highlights:
The Star Rating Protocol was launched by MoHUA in January 2018. The aim is to institutionalize a mechanism for cities to achieve Garbage Free status and motivate cities to achieve higher degrees of cleanliness.
The 6 5-star rated cities are Ambikapur, Rajkot, Surat, Mysuru, Indore, and Navi Mumbai.
The rating acknowledges the clean status of Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) and strengthened Solid Waste Management (SWM) systems.
The performance of the cities under the Star Rating Protocol is crucial as it carries significant weightage when it comes to their final assessment in Swachh Survekshan.
The 5-start rating protocol has been devised to include components such as the cleanliness of drains & water bodies, plastic waste management, managing construction & demolition waste, etc.
Over 1435 cities applied for the Star Rating Assessment. It was based on 1.19 crore citizen feedbacks and over 10 lakh geo-tagged pictures were collected and 5175 solid waste processing plants were visited by 1210 field assessors. A total of 141 cities have been certified with Star Rating during field assessment.
The low number of certifications signifies the rigorous and robust certification mechanism of the protocol.
- Madhya Pradesh launched Charan Paduka initiative for migrant labourers
Madhya Pradesh state government launched the Charan Paduka initiative. The first of its kind of initiative is for the migrant labourers passing through the Madhya Pradesh.
Charan Paduka Initiative:
Under the Charan Paduka campaign, the migrant labourers who are heading back to their native land will be provided shoes and slippers to reduce their pain.
The campaign is being conducted by the police in most places. It aims to send the labourers to their homes respectfully amid COVID-19.
The Charan Paduka campaign started from the Rau Police Station of Indore.
The new initiative to support migrant labourers has spread in many cities of Madhya Pradesh including Damoh, Umaria, and Sagar.
- Development of Museums and Cultural Spaces hosted a webinar on Revitalising Museums and Cultural Spaces
Development of Museums and Cultural Spaces, Ministry of Culture, Government of India hosted a webinar on "Revitalising Museums and Cultural Spaces" on 18 May. The webinar aimed to celebrate the International Museum Day and kick start conversations around creating sustainable cultural organizations in post-pandemic India.
Highlights:
The webinar featured some of the best experts in the museum and cultural spaces domain including Founder Trustee of Museum of Art and Photography (MAP), Bengaluru Shri Abhishek Poddar, President of Kochi Biennale Foundation Shri Bose Krishnamachari, Founder and CEO of Cuseum Shri Brendan Ciecko, Managing Director of Teamwork Arts Shri Sanjoy K Roy and CEO of Museums and Cultural Spaces, Ministry of Culture, GoI (Moderator) Shri Raghvendra Singh.
The objective aims to identify the possible policy actions that will help alleviate the short and long term effects of the crisis on museums, cultural spaces, and their broader ecosystems.
Discussion on impact, innovations, and post-COVID-19 crisis planning in the context of Museums and cultural spaces were held.
The cultural spaces were reimaged to introduce innovative ideas to maximize the social and economic value of cultural heritage and to build capacity in order to engage with local audiences and tourists.
The discussion aimed to prepare policy paper and get agreement on whatever is practical and feasible.
- India participated in 73rd WHA
India participated in the 73rd World Health Assembly (WHA) on 18 May. India was represented by Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare through video conference. WHA addressed Global Vaccine Plan, polio eradication, and neglected tropical diseases other than COVID-19.
Highlights:
On this platform, the health leaders committed to fighting COVID-19 pandemic together, in unity, in solidarity.
Australia initiated the COVID-19 investigation during the conference. China showed its opposition to investigate.
The committee decided to work on the transmission routes of the virus to find out the possible host and look for solutions to prevent such outbreaks in the future.
- GoI to implement Shekatkar Committee recommendations related to creating border infrastructure
Government has decided to implement three important recommendations of the Shekatkar Committee of Experts (CoE). The CoE is headed by the Chairmanship of Lt General D B Shekatkar (Retd). The recommendations are related to border Infrastructure like speeding up road construction, leading to socio-economic development in the border areas.
Highlights:
GoI has implemented the recommendation of CoE to outsource road construction work beyond the optimal capacity of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). As per the recommendation, Centre has made it mandatory to adopt Engineering Procurement Contract (EPC) mode for execution of all works costing more than Rs.100 crore.
GoI has decided to introduce modern construction equipment, plants, and machinery that have been implemented by delegating enhanced procurement powers from Rs.7.5 crore to Rs.100 crore to BRO, for domestic and foreign procurements.
BRO has been directed to use new technology like blasting technology for precision blasting, use of Geo-Textiles for soil stabilization, the cementitious base for pavements, plastic-coated aggregates for surfacing, to enhance the pace of construction.
It has also approved the land acquisition and all statutory clearances like forest and environmental clearance which are part of the approval of the Detailed Project Report (DPR).
Background:
The 11-member Shekatkar Committee was appointed by the late Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar in 2016. The Shekatkar Committee had made a total of 99 recommendations. The implementation of the recommendation of the committee is expected to save Rs.25,000 crores. In 2017, around 65 were approved by the Ministry of Defence.
- Cabinet approves extension for the welfare of Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana
The Union Cabinet led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the extension for the welfare of Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY). It aims to enable old age income security for Senior Citizens:
Highlights:
As per the approval, the scheme is extended up to 31 March 2023 for a further period of three years beyond 31 March 2020.
It also allowed initially an assured rate of return of 7.40% per annum for the year 2020-21 per annum and thereafter to be reset every year.
Annual reset of the assured rate of interest with effect from 1 April of the financial year in line with the revised rate of returns of Senior Citizens Saving Scheme (SCSS) up to a ceiling of 7.75% with a fresh appraisal of the scheme on breach of this threshold at any point.
It also approved the expenditure to be incurred on account of the difference between the market rate of return generated by LIC (net of expenses) and the guaranteed rate of return under the scheme.
The extension also includes capping Management expenses at 0.5% p.a. of funds of the scheme for the first year of scheme in respect of new policies issued and thereafter 0.3% p.a. for the second year onwards for the next 9 years.
- Cabinet approves Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) on 20th May 2020. The scheme aims to boost investments in the fisheries sector and increase of competitiveness of fish and fisheries products.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana:
The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana scheme aims to bring about Blue Revolution through sustainable and responsible development of the fisheries sector in India under two components namely, Central Sector Scheme (CS) and Centrally Sponsored Scheme (CSS).
The total estimated investment for the scheme is Rs.20,050 crore comprising of the Central government share of Rs.9,407 crore, State government share of Rs.4,880 crore, and Beneficiaries' share of Rs.5,763 crore.
PMMSY Scheme will be implemented during a period of 5 years from FY 2020-21 to FY 2024-25.
The scheme aims to address the critical gaps in the fisheries sector and realize its potential.
The main objective of the scheme is the doubling of fishers, fish farmers, and fish workers' incomes by 2024.
It will ensure the availability of certified quality fish seed and feed, traceability in fish, and including effective aquatic health management.
- Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries touch 1 crore
Ayushman Bharat beneficiaries set a milestone by touching 1 crore count across the country. The scheme is meant only for poor and economically-deprived people in India. The eligible families to avail the benefits of the scheme are fixed based on the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC).
Ayushman Bharat:
Ayushman Bharat or the National Health Protection Mission (AB-NHPM) was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in September 2018 in Ranchi, Jharkhand. The mission is popularly known as Modicare. The flagship health insurance programme of GoI aims to provide Rs.5 lakh hospitalization cover to up to 107.4 million poor and vulnerable families.
Under the mission, over 1.5 lakh sub-centres were converted into wellness centres with an aim to cater to the majority of services such as detection and treatment of cardiovascular diseases, screening for common cancers, mental health, care of the elderly, eye care, etc. The wellness centres under the mission also offer a set of services including mental health services, maternal and child health services, and vaccinations against selected communicable diseases.
- New Workplace Guidelines amid COVID-19
Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have recently announced fresh workplace guidelines amid this Coronavirus pandemic outbreak.
What are the new workplace guidelines amid COVID-19?
The Ministry has directed as part of new guidelines, that anyone who is diagnosed as a suspected/confirmed case of COVID-19 should immediately inform the office authorities and to isolate themselves.
There is no need to close the entire office building/halt work if one or two cases were detected.
However, a large outbreak would require that the building be shut down for 48 hours and disinfected.
Further, the guidelines make it mandatory to maintain a physical distance of at least 1 metre to be followed at all the times along with the use of face covers/masks.
It is also notified that no decision has been taken as yet to replace hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), introduced as a game changer to arrest the spread of COVID-19, as a prophylactic, with HIV combination drugs.
It was also notified that practice of frequent handwashing (for at least 40-60 seconds) even if the hands are not visibly dirty and use of alcohol based hand sanitizers (for at least 20 seconds) and respiratory etiquettes are to be strictly followed.
As per the guidelines, the respiratory etiquettes involve the strict practice of covering one’s mouth and nose while coughing/sneezing with a tissue/handkerchief/flexed elbow and disposing of used tissues properly.
Further, any staff requesting home quarantine based on the containment zone activities in their residential areas should be permitted to work from home.
Also, any staff reportedly suffering from flu-like illness should not attend office and seek medical advice from the local health authorities.
- Provisions for EPF Contributions amid COVID-19
As part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan announced by PM Modi, the reduction in statutory rate of contributions from 12% to 10% for wage months May, 2020, June, 2020 and July, 2020 for all class of establishments covered under the EPF & MP Act, 1952 has been announced.
Key details about Provisions for EPF Contributions
The above reduction of rate of contribution is not applicable to establishments like Central and State Public Sector enterprises or any other establishment owned or controlled by or under control of the Central Govt. or State Govt.
These establishments shall continue to contribute 12% of basic wages and dearness allowances.
The reduced rate is also not applicable for PMGKY beneficiaries, since the entire employees EPF contributions (12% of wages) and employers’ EPF & EPS contribution (12% of wages), totaling 24% of the monthly wages is being contributed by the Central Govt.
Reduction in rate of EPF contributions from 12% to 10% of basic wages and Dearness allowances is intended to benefit both 4.3 Crore employees/members and employers of 6.5 lakhs establishments to tide over the immediate liquidity crisis to some extent.
In Cost to Company (CTC) model, if Rs.10000/- is monthly EPF wages, in CTC Model the employee gets Rs.200/- more directly from employer as employer’s EPF/EPS contribution is reduced and Rs.200/- less is deducted from his/her wages.
Under the EPF Scheme, 1952 any member has the option to contribute at a rate higher than statutory rate (10%) and employer can restrict his contributions 10% (statutory rate) in respect of such employee.
- MHRD launched National Test Abhyas App
Union Minister of Human Resource and Development has recently launched a new mobile application named, “National Test Abhyas”.
National Test Abhyas:
The App has been developed by National Testing Agency (NTA) to enable candidates to take mock tests for upcoming exams such as JEE Main, NEET under the NTA’s purview.
The app has been launched to facilitate candidates’ access to high quality mock tests in the safety and comfort of their homes since there was a demand for making up the loss to students due to closure of educational institutions and NTA’s Test-Practice Centers (TPCs) due to the continuing lockdown.
Students across the country can use the App to access high quality tests, free of cost, in a bid to be fully prepared for the upcoming JEE, NEET and other competitive exams.
The app will make available practice tests on smartphones or computers for all students in India irrespective of their level of access to devices and quality of network.
The app also has an offline mode where students, on downloading the mock tests, can attempt the test without the internet.
The app works on Android-based smartphones and tablets and can be downloaded from Google Play Store.
The app will be soon available on iOS.
NTA plans to release one new mock test on the app everyday, which students can then download and attempt offline. Once the test is completed, students can go online again to submit the test and view their test report.
In addition to that NTA has developed extensive support system at http://nta.ac.in/abhyas/help.
- GoI launches scheme to solarise entire Konark Temple
GoI has launched a scheme for the solarisation of Konark Sun Temple and Konark town in Odisha. The announcement was made by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. The main objective of the scheme is to develop the historical Sun temple town of Konark in Odisha as 'Surya Nagri'.
Highlights:
Under the scheme, the Centre aims to set up the 10-MW grid-connected solar project and various solar off-grid applications such as solar drinking water kiosks, solar trees, and off-grid solar power plants with battery storage.
It will be set up with a 100% central financial assistance (CFA) support of around Rs.25 crore from the Government of India through the MNRE.
The implementation of the project will be done by the Odisha Renewable Energy Development Agency (OREDA).
The scheme is expected to meet all the energy requirements of Konark town with solar energy.
- 21st Dekho Apna Desh Webinar Series
The 21st Dekho Apna Desh Webinar Series was recently conducted by the Ministry of Toursim as part of its Dekho Apna Desh Scheme.
The Dekho Apna Desh Webinar Series is presented with support of National e-Governance Division (NeGD) of Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY).
Key Highlights of 21st Dekho Apna Desh Webinar Series
The 21st edition of the Dekho Apna Desh webinar series showcased the Tradition, Culture and Tourism of Bhopal, the capital city of Madhya Pradesh more commonly known as ‘The Heart of Incredible India.’
TITLE: ‘Photowalking Bhopal : Tradition, Culture and Tourism’
A number of experiences were showcased by the presenters about Bhopal which include ‘Paan’ ‘ Sulemani Chai,’ the embroidery work on silk, the Jeeps and much more. .
Several historical places including the Minto Hall (architectural marvel in Bhopal constructed by NawabSultan Jahan Begum) were listed during the session.
- “Scheme for formalisation of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (FME) “
Union Cabinet has given its approval for “Scheme for formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (FME)”, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for the unorganized sector.
Key Objectives of the Scheme
To increase in access to finance by micro food processing units.
Further increase in revenues of target enterprises.
To ensure enhanced compliance with food quality and safety standards.
Strengthening capacities of support systems.
To ensure a transition from the unorganized sector to the formal sector.
Provide a special focus on women entrepreneurs and Aspirational districts.
To encourage Waste to Wealth activities.
To enlarge its focus on minor forest produce in Tribal Districts.
- Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS)
The Union Cabinet has given its approval for the Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) to enable additional funding of up to Rs. 3 lakh crore to eligible MSMEs.
Key Highlights
The Emergency Credit Line Guarantee Scheme (ECLGS) has been formulated as a specific response to the unprecedented situation caused by COVID-19 and the consequent lockdown, which has severely impacted manufacturing and other activities in the MSME sector.
AIM
The Scheme aims at mitigating the economic distress being faced by MSMEs by providing them additional funding of up to Rs. 3 lakh crore in the form of a fully guaranteed emergency credit line.
OBJECTIVES
The main objective of the Scheme is to provide an incentive to Member Lending Institutions (MLIs), i.e., Banks, Financial Institutions (FIs) and Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) to increase access to, and enable availability of additional funding facility to MSME borrowers, in view of the economic distress caused by the COVID-19 crisis.
This is planned to be done by providing them 100 % guarantee for any losses suffered by them due to non-repayment of the Guaranteed Emergency Credit Line (GECL) funding by borrowers.
- MoD approves 26 Defence items from local suppliers to boost Make in India
Ministry of Defence (MoD) has approved the procurement of 26 defence items only from local suppliers to boost the "Make in India" initiative. GoI has issued Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India) Order 2017 to promote the manufacturing and production of goods and services in India.
Highlights:
MoD has notified 127 items where purchase preference is given to local suppliers as per PPP-MII 2017.
It also aims to encourage procurement from local suppliers. The procuring entities shall procure these items only from local suppliers, irrespective of the purchase value, provided that the local suppliers meet the Minimum Local Content (MLC) as prescribed for each item.
MoD has already procured 26 out of 127 items from the local suppliers. The 26 items include helo landing grids, inflatable boats, oil pumps, high-temperature gasket among others.
- National Anti-Terrorism Day is observed on 21 May
National Anti-Terrorism Day is observed on 21 May every year in India. The day aims to raise awareness about the anti-social act of terrorism and its impact on human suffering and lives.
The day marks the death anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, the Former Prime Minister of India. The day also aims to spread the message of peace and humanity and to promote unity among people.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the day has been decided to be observed with precautions. Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has advised that 'Anti-Terrorism Pledge' may be taken solemnly by the Officials in their rooms/offices itself.
History:
The seventh Prime Minister of India Rajiv Gandhi was assassinated on 21 May 1991. He was killed in Tamil Nadu in a campaign by the terrorist. Following this tragedy, under the V.P. Singh government, the Centre has decided to observe 21 May as Anti Terrorism Day.
- J&K Civil Services (Decentralization and Recruitment) Act 2010
Union Cabinet has given its approval for the Jammu & Kashmir (Adaptation of State Laws) Second Order, 2020 issued under section 96 of Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019.
This order has further modified the applicability of Domicile conditions to all level of jobs in the Union territory of Jammu & Kashmir under the Jammu & Kashmir Civil Services (Decentralisation and Recruitment) Act, 2010.
What you need to know about Jammu & Kashmir Reorganization Order (2020)?
Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Order would allow citizens from other states to become permanent residents of the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Previously, Article 370 reserved lands and jobs only for ‘permanent residents’, the definition of which has been altered to domiciles through the approval of the new order.
Under this new law, any person or children of a parent who has resided in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir for at least 15 years or who has studied for a period of seven years and appeared in class 10 or 12 examinations in an educational institution located in the territory will be eligible to become a permanent resident.
Furthermore, central government officials who have served in the region for at least 10 years will also be provided domicile status along with their children.
A migrant registered by the Relief and Rehabilitation Commissioner of the Union Territory will also be eligible to be domicile.
This notification was issued by the Ministry of Home Affairs in exercise of the powers provided by section 14 under section 96 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, referred to as the J&K Civil Services (Decentralization and Recruitment Act).
This law would allow people with a domicile status to apply for gazetted or non-gazetted jobs.
Initially, the Home Ministry issued an order that provided protection to domiciles in “Group D and entry-level non gazetted government posts,” i.e. a post carrying a pay-scale of not more than level 4. However, political parties in Kashmir showed discontent to this new law stating it was discriminatory towards the citizens of the state.
Hence, on April 3, 2020, a fresh order was issued that would reserve any post in the government for the domiciles including senior positions in the group A and B categories.
- Coir Geotextiles in Road Constructions under PMGSY
Under the third phase of PM Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) i.e., PMGSY-III, coir geotextiles are to be used for the construction of roads.
This was announced by the National Rural Infrastructure Development Agency under Union Ministry of Rural Development, Govt. of India.
The decision will give a big boost to the coir industry especially in these difficult times of COVID-19 pandemic.
PMGSY new technology guidelines
According to the PMGSY new technology guidelines for road construction, 15% length in each batch of proposals, is to be constructed using new technologies.
Out of this 5% roads are to be constructed using IRC accredited technology.
The IRC has now accredited coir Geo textiles for construction of rural roads.
As per these instructions, 5% length of the rural roads under PMGSY-III will be constructed using Coir Geo textiles.
Accordingly road will be constructed using coir geo textiles in following 7 states of the country namely,
164 km in Andhra Pradesh
151 km in Gujarat
71 km in Kerala
328 km in Maharashtra
470 km in Odisha
369 km in Tamil Nadu
121 km in Telengana.
Thus, 1674 km road will be constructed using Coir Geo textiles for which there will be a requirement of 1 Crore Sq. meter of coir Geo-textiles, estimated cost of which would come to Rs.70 Crore.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
The Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) is a nationwide plan in India to provide good all-weather road connectivity to unconnected villages. This Centrally Sponsored Scheme was introduced in 2000 by the then-prime minister of India Late Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
The PMGSY is under the authority of the Ministry of Rural Development and was begun on 25 December 2000. It is fully funded by the central government.
During November 2015, following the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission, the Sub-Group of Chief Ministers on Rationalization of Centrally Sponsored Schemes, it was announced that the project will be funded by both the central government (60%) and states (40%).
- NSafe mask-Reusable Antimicrobial Mask
IIT-Delhi startup named Nanosafe Solutions has launched an antimicrobial and washable face mask that can be reused up to 50 launderings. The move comes with the increasing demand for face masks to contain transmission of coronavirus.
Washable face mask:
NSafe mask is a three-layered product. It consists of an inner hydrophilic layer for comfort, the middle layer having antimicrobial activity, and the outermost layer having water and oil repellent behaviour.
NSafe is the first fabric-based antimicrobial face mask launched in India.
NSafe mask has 99.2% bacterial filtration efficiency (at 3 microns) and has very high Bacterial Filtration Efficiency, as tested according to ASTM standards.
The mask is engineered to have very good breathability and comfort
It has been designed to maximize durability and dimensional stability. The mask can be reused 50 times.
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, effective reusability is an important factor as single-use masks cause huge disposal issues.
The mask provides extreme comfortability and breathability. Elastic band in the chin region and wire in the nose region provides an adequate fit of the mask to the wearer.
- TRIFED, Art of Living Foundation collaborates to provide Free Ration Kits to needy tribes India artisans
Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Art of Living Foundation (AOL) to help the needy tribes India artisans amid COVID-19 pandemic.
Highlights:
The agreement aims to collaborate in respective programmes of each organization for promoting Tribal Enterprises.
Under this, the Art of Living Foundation has agreed to provide Free Ration Kits to Needy Tribes India Artisans.
TRIFED Regional Offices have compiled the list of needy tribal artisans and have identified 9,409 needy tribal artisans located across the country for distribution of ration kits under #iStandWithHumanity campaign of Art Of Living.
The move will be coordinated with the AOL offices in all States.
- Massive exercise to supply free food grains, pulses to 80 crore people under PM-GKAY
Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution reported that the Food Corporation of India (FCI) has supplied a total number of 2641 rakes, including Wheat and Rice. The announcement was made by Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Ram Vilas Paswan.
Measures to help poor:
PM-GKAY aims to ensure no poor vulnerable family/person suffers on account of the non-availability of foodgrains due to disruptions in the next three months amid lockdown.
Under the initiative, 21 States/UT have completed more than 90% distribution for the month of April under PM-GKAY. It covered nearly 41.35 crore beneficiaries in these States/UTs.
Some states/UTs namely, Andaman Nicobar Island, D&NH and Daman & Diu, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Puducherry, Himachal Pradesh, etc. are distributing foodgrains for two months in one go under PM-GKAY.
So far, 17 States/UTs are covered under the 'One Nation One Ration Card'.
National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED) provided free pulses for 3 months to about 19.50 crore households for three months in the country.
Also, the Department of Food & Public Distribution has constituted a Task Force to assess the situation arising out of shortage of jute bags/bales for the packaging of food grains due to the COVID19 lockdown. The Ministry also relaxed guidelines for packaging of foodgrains in used gunny bags and HDPE/PPE bags.
- Giriraj Singh awards Startup India-Animal Husbandry Grand Challenge winners
Union Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, Giriraj Singh awarded the winners of "Startup India-Animal Husbandry Grand Challenge" on 8 May. The Animal Husbandry Startup Grand Challenge was launched by the Department of Animal Husbandry and Dairying, in partnership with Startup India.
Animal Husbandry Startup Grand Challenge:
Animal Husbandry Startup Grand Challenge was launched by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi on 11 September 2019 at a national animal disease control programme in Mathura.
The challenge aimed to scout for innovative and commercially viable solutions to address the problems faced by the Animal Husbandry and Dairy sector.
The challenge was to provide unique solutions for six problems namely Value-added products, Single-use plastic alternatives, eliminate milk adulteration, Breed improvement and animal nutrition, E-commerce solutions, and Product traceability.
2 Startups per problem statement have been selected to receive cash grants and incubation. The winner will be granted Rs.10 lakh and the runner will be awarded Rs.7 lakh.
- MoD signs with Tata Power SED for Modernisation of Air Field Infrastructure
Ministry of Defence (MoD) signed a contract with M/s Tata Power SED (TPSED) for Modernisation of Air Field Infrastructure (MAFI) of 37 airfields for the Indian Air Force(IAF), Indian Navy (IN) and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) on 8 May.
The cost of the contract is worth around Rs.1,200crore. The proposal regarding the contract was approved by the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The contract will boost the domestic industry amid the COVID-19 situation.
Project Highlights:
The MAFI Phase-II is a follow-on programme that is based on MAFI Phase-I.
In Phase-I, the project included the upgradation of 30 airfields of IAF. The airfields modernized under MAFI Phase-I have been of immense benefit to both military and civil users.
The Phase-II of the project includes installation and commissioning of modern airfield equipment like Cat-II Instrument Landing System (ILS); and Cat-II Air Field Lighting System (AFLS), etc. The system around the airfield will be directly connected to Air Traffic Control (ATC), thereby providing excellent control of the airfield systems to the air traffic controllers.
The upgradation of infrastructure and navigational aids under the project will enhance the operational capability by facilitating air operations of military and civil aircraft even in poor visibility and adverse weather conditions. It will also enhance aerospace safety.
The project will give a boost to over 250 Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME) which will be directly benefited from being involved in the execution of various activities of this project.
The contract will help to infuse the much-needed capital in the market and boost employment generation in such fields as communications, avionics, information technology, apart from civil and electrical equipment and construction.
- UP CM Yogi Adityanath launched Pravasi Rahat Mitra App to aid migrant citizens
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched the 'Pravasi Rahat Mitra' App. The move is aimed at aiding migrant citizens coming to Uttar Pradesh from other states so that they can take advantage of government schemes.
The app was developed by the state revenue department in collaboration with the United Nation Development Program (UNDP).
Pravasi Rahat Mitra App:
Pravasi Rahat Mitra app will help to monitor their health besides providing jobs and livelihood, related to their skills.
The data of the migrant citizens will be collected through the app. The basic information including a person's name, educational qualification, temporary and permanent address, bank account details, Corona-related screening status and experience will be taken in the app. In this, details of more than 65 types of skills will be collected.
The exchange of information by various departments of the government will help in planning and formulating programs for the employment and livelihood of these migrant citizens.
The app holds full details of the persons staying in the shelter center and the migrants who have reached their homes directly from other states.
The data that is collected through the app will be installed on the state-based Integrated Information Management System.
It also ensures that there is no data duplication, the unique mobile number will be made the basis. The app can work in both online and offline mode.
- DSCL uses several measures to fight COVID-19 pandemic
Dehradun Smart City Limited (DSCL) has utilized the Integrated Command and Control Centre for monitoring and surveillance activities in the fight against coronavirus. To manage COVID-19, DSCL authorities have collaborated with District Administration.
To implement and execute several measures, technology partners such as HPE, SGL, and Webline were remotely engaged by DSCL and District Administration through video and teleconferencing.
Measures:
Integrated Command and Control Centre
DSCL introduced the process of monitoring the quarantine wards at the hospitals through Dehradun Integrated Command and Control Centre. It used a CCTV surveillance system and the video feed of the same AI-based Face Recognition at Isolation/Quarantine location would be stored at the Integrated Command and Control Centre (ICCC).
Lockdown Pass
DSCL developed a computer application named "Essential Service Lockdown pass" for senior citizens, funeral, medical service, food supply & grocery service, home delivery, IT & telecom service, etc.
Public Awareness Campaigns
The smart city aimed to spread awareness regarding the lockdown and the services that have been provided by the Municipal Corporation and all other Government services. The city is also motivating people through its various social media to spread awareness among all the projects of DSCL.
Awareness through VMDs
COVID-19 awareness message is being published for citizens on Variable Messaging Displays (VMDs) placed at Critical Junctions of the City. Display of Emergency Numbers, Police, Health, and other important departments is being done on VMDs.
- MHA issues Standard Operating Protocol to facilitate movement of persons by train
Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has issued Standard Operating Protocol (SOP) to facilitate the movement of persons by train amid lockdown imposed to contain COVID-19 spread.
SOP:
As per the SOP, all the passengers entering the railway station will undergo a compulsory medical screening for COVID-19 infection.
Movement of passengers to & fro and entry at the railway station will be permitted only on the confirmed e-ticket.
During the travel and at the railway stations, Strict adherence to Health/hygiene protocols and social distancing.
All passengers would be provided with hand sanitizer at entry and exit points at the station and in coaches.
It will be ensured that all passengers wear face covers and masks at entry and during travel.
On arrival at their destination, the traveling passengers should adhere to all the health protocols prescribed by the destination State/ UT.
Movement of trains shall be permitted by the Ministry of Railways (MoR), in a graded manner, in consultation with the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) and MHA.
- Registration Committee recommends the ban use of TB drug on crops
The Registration Committee (RC) under the Central Insecticides Board and Registration Committee (CIBRC) recommended a complete ban on the use of antibiotics streptomycin and tetracycline on crops with immediate effect.
It suggested that other options were available for bacterial disease control. The decision was made at the 414th meeting of the RC held on 1 May 2020. The report will be shared with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Department of Agriculture Cooperation for necessary action on suggesting alternatives.
Highlights:
The report recommended that streptomycin and tetracycline use be phased by 2022-end for crops for which no alternatives were available. It directed the antibiotics to be used on crops strictly as per the label claim.
It also suggested measures to contain this malpractice and regulate it.
The assessment was carried out in the agricultural farms of Delhi, Punjab, and Haryana. It was found that streptocycline, a 90:10 combination of streptomycin and tetracycline. But it was observed that it is being routinely and indiscriminately used by farmers in high doses in crops.
Streptomycin:
The World Health Organization (WHO) recognized streptomycin as a critically important medicine for human use. It is used to treat tuberculosis (TB) patients in India. It is also used in multidrug-resistant TB patients and in certain cases of TB meningitis (brain TB).
- Registrar General of India released Birth rate, death rate, IMR data
Data released by the Registrar General of India stated that India's infant mortality rate (IMR) has improved very marginally from 33 per 1,000 live births in 2017 to 32 in 2018.
Report Highlights:
The report stated that Madhya Pradesh has the worst IMR in the country at 48 and Nagaland stands the best at 4. In 2017, Madhya Pradesh's IMR stood at 47.
Among large states, Kerala has performed best with an IMR in single digits at 7. Also, only Kerala state has now achieved the United Nations' sustainable development goal in this regard.
The report stated that the largest decline in IMR has been registered by Mizoram, with a decline from 15 to 5. Undivided Jammu and Kashmir has shown a decline and is at 22, well below the national average of 32.
Child and infant mortality stands as a massive problem in India despite improvements over the years. In 2018, an estimated 8,82,000 children under the age of 5 died in India.
Registrar General of India also released data for death and birth rates. India’s birth rate stood at 20. The death rate was 6.2. Chhattisgarh has the highest death rate in the country at 8 whereas Delhi has the lowest at 3.
Birth rate in India has declined from 36 in 1971 to 20 now. The death rate in 1971 was 14.9.
- Centre launched Mission Sagar for assistance to Indian Ocean nations amid COVID-19 crisis
Government of India launched "Mission Sagar" on 10 May. The aim is to provide assistance to Indian Ocean Region Nations amid the coronavirus crisis. The operation is being progressed in coordination with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The mission is in line with the Prime Minister's vision of SAGAR.
Mission Sagar:
The mission is a part of the Government of India outreach amidst the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Under the mission, Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kesari has departed for Maldives, Mauritius, Seychelles, Madagascar, and Comoros, to provide Food Items, COVID related Medicines including HCQ Tablets and Special Ayurvedic Medicines with Medical Assistance Teams.
The Ship will deliver consignments of COVID related essential medicines including Hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) tablets, to Mauritius, Madagascar, Comoros and Seychelles and about 600 tonnes of food items to the Maldives.
SAGAR Vision:
In 2015, GoI introduced its vision of the Indian Ocean called Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR). The aim is to seek economic and security cooperation with India's neighbours, especially maritime neighbours, under the vision. Under this vision, India would cooperate on the exchange of information, the building of infrastructure, coastal surveillance, and strengthening mutual capabilities with its neighbour countries.
- National Fertilizers Ltd. sale rose to 71 percent in April 2020 despited COVID-19 lockdown
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers reported that National Fertilizers Ltd, a PSU under GoI, registered a 71% growth in fertilizer sales in April 2020. The stringent restrictions in April due to COVID-19 lockdown Company recorded fertilizer sale of 3.62 Lakh MT in April 2020 compared to 2.12 Lakh MT in the same period 2019.
Highlights:
National Fertilizers Ltd made fertilizers available to farmers during this crucial period. It has achieved the highest-ever growth in sales in the month of April 2020.
NFL produced urea at its five plants located at Nangal and Bathinda in Punjab, Panipat in Haryana, and two plants at Vijaipur in Madhya Pradesh. Though the company has a production capacity of 35.68 Lakh MT of urea.
With all these products, the company has recorded the highest-ever sale of 57 Lakh MT in 2019-20, continuously for the fifth time in a row.
Maintaining optimum operations of these plants in difficult times is a big success story especially towards fulfilling the Government's commitment to the farming community of the country.
- Tourism Ministry organised 17th session of Dekho Apna Desh webinar series on Exploring River Nila
Ministry of Tourism organized the 17th session of the Dekho Apna Desh webinar on 9 May 2020. The webinar was titled 'Exploring River Nila' was about showcasing meaningful travel experiences for travelers that are offered by relatively unvisited places.
Exploring River Nila:
The webinar took the participants on a journey into lesser-known towns and villages along the “River Nila” also known as Bharathapuzha in Kerala. The river offers authentic and unique experiences to the discerning travellers and explorers.
The story 'Exploring River Nila' was modelled to showcase the tenets of responsible tourism that involves finding uniqueness about a place, the people who live in it and sharing it with the people who come to visit.
The webinar also showcased the local food, festivals, art forms, traditions, and also about conserving the nature, landscapes, heritage, and community of the places that people travel to.
Places like Palakkad, Thrissur and Malappuram districts in Kerala which can be easily accessed by air through Coimbatore, Kochi, and Kozhikode airports were included in the webinar.
- Ministry of Defence approves abolition of 9,304 posts in Military Engineering Service
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the abolition of 9,304 posts in the Engineer-in-Chief of Military Engineering Services (MES). The move was aimed to optimize more than 9,300 posts in the basic and industrial workforce as per the recommendations of the Committee of Experts, headed by Lieutenant General Shekatkar.
Recommendations of Shekatkar Committee:
The committee aimed to restructure the civilian workforce. As per the recommendation, the work of MES could be partly done by departmentally employed staff and other works could be outsourced.
A total of 13,157 vacancies were there in MES. The abolished 9,304 posts were included in the vacancies.
The committee recommended the closure of military farms and postal establishments in peace regions.
It suggested reducing the number of officers to 200.
It recommended enhancing the standards to recruit drivers in the army and clerical staff.
- Indian Railways operates Shramik Special trains across the country amid lockdown
Indian Railways has decided to operate "Shramik Special" trains. The operation of the trains aims to help the migrant workers, pilgrims, tourists, students, and other people who are stranded at different places due to lockdown.
Highlights:
In these special Shramik Special Trains, a maximum of around 1200 passengers can travel observing social distancing.
The passengers will be screened properly before boarding the train. During the journey, passengers will be given free meals and water.
Also, these trains have ferried migrants to cities like Tiruchchirappalli, Titlagarh, Barauni, Khandwa, Jagannathpur, Khurda Road, Prayagraj, Chhapra, Balia, Gaya, Purnia, Varanasi, Darbhanga, Gorakhpur, Lucknow, Jaunpur, Hatia, Basti, Katihar, Danapur, Muzzaffarpur, Saharsa, etc. in the country.
Indian Railways has terminated the operation of trains in various states like Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Odisha, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal.
The special Trains are being run by Railways only after concurrence is given both by the State which is sending the passengers and the State which is receiving them
As of 10 May 2020, a total of 366 Shramik Special trains have been operationalized from various states across the country amid lockdown.
- National Technology Day is observed on 11 May
National Technology Day is observed on 11 May. The day highlights the importance of science in daily life. It also encourages youngsters to get into the field for their career options.
Events:
Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Department of Science and Technology (DBT) is conducting a session on YouTube. Digital Conference will focus on RE-START 'Reboot the Economy through Science, Technology and Research Translations.' It will focus on rebooting the economy through Science and Technology.
The conference aims to bring together Scientists, Technocrats, Diplomats, World Health Organization (WHO) officials and dignitaries from national and international Industries, Research Institutions, and Academic Institutions.
History:
The observance of the National Technology Day was coined by late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The day has been designated to commemorate the major technological breakthroughs, achievements, and contributions of Indian scientists and engineers.
On 11 May 1998, India tested the nuclear tests at Pokhran. Also, on that day India conducted its nuclear missile Shakti, also known as Operation Shakti. The day aims to recognize the country's technological advancements.
- ICMR, NCDC to begin serosurvey to monitor COVID-19 prevalence at district level
The Union Health Ministry announced that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has initiated a population-based serosurvey to monitor the trend in the prevalence of the infection at the district level.
Highlights:
The two government research bodies will collaborate with key stakeholders for the survey at 10 health facilities, of which 6 are public and 4 are private.
The serosurvey involves testing of blood serum of a group of individuals to determine the presence of antibodies against that infection.
It is also planning to establish systematic surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 infection in all districts of the country.
The surveillance will be in addition to the routine testing as per current testing guidelines. The survey will include 200 samples per week and 800 samples per month.
A minimum of 100 samples per week and 400 per month of healthcare workers from selected districts would be tested.
Among the high-risk population, outpatient attendees (non-ILI patients) and pregnant women among the low-risk group, and health care workers will be tested.
Data on demographic characteristics will be collected on a specifically designed standard data collection form.
The collected data will be analyzed locally for action using standard indicator formats. Indicators will be made for person, place, time, and trend analysis.
- Ministry of MSME launches CHAMPIONS Portal
Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) has launched the CHAMPIONS portal, a Technology-driven Control Room-Cum-Management Information System.
The CHAMPIONS stands here for the Creation and Harmonious Application of Modern Processes for Increasing the Output and National Strength.
CHAMPIONS:
CHAMPIONS portal aims to make the smaller units big by solving their grievances, encouraging, supporting, helping, and handholding.
It has been developed as a real one-stop-shop solution of MSME Ministry. It is a technology-packed control room-cum-management information system.
The system is enabled by Artificial Intelligence (AI), Data Analytics, and Machine Learning in addition to ICT tools including telephone, internet, and video conference.
As part of the system, a network of control rooms is created in a Hub & Spoke Model. So far, 66 state-level control rooms are created as part of the system.
- Department of Consumer Affairs partners with Safejob, Seekify for Suraksha Store initiative
The Department of Consumer Affairs has launched the Suraksha Store initiative. Under the initiative, the department has partnered with tech start-ups Safejob and Seekify to use technology to prevent the spread of COVID-19 at the local Kirana store level.
Suraksha Store initiative:
The primary objective of the project is to educate Kirana store owners across the country about the COVID-19 safety guidelines and protocols that are to be followed while running their businesses.
The protocols were prepared by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It included norms around social distancing and hygiene at all retail outlets.
The main objective of the initiative was to allow consumers to use the AarogyaSetu app to find a Suraksha Store near them and shop.
Currently, more than 7 lakh retailers have enrolled for this training and over 70K Kirana employees have completed the awareness training.
- Bengaluru launched Pranavayu programme to create awareness about examining respiratory health
The Bengaluru city corporation, Karnataka has launched Pranavayu programme to create awareness on the need to self examine the respiratory health for the city people.
Pranavayu programme:
Pranavayu programme aims to create awareness through advertisements in media about the need to carry out self examination for early detection of any ailment that could aggravate the situation if contracted with the viral infection.
The initiative will allow them to monitor blood oxygen levels and heart rates of patients showing influenza-like illnesses (ILI) in fever clinics.
Several deaths due to COVID-19 are reported due to Severe Acute Respiratory illness (SARI).
Pranavayu awareness programme is an attempt to help people with low oxygen level in their blood to get themselves checked early before their ailments become fatal.
So far, Bengaluru Urban district in Karnataka reported 175 confirmed COVID-19 positive cases and 6 people have died due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 84 persons have recovered and discharged. There are 21 containment zones in the city.
- New 177 mandis integrated with e-NAM platform
The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar launched the integration of 177 new mandis with the National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) on 11 May. The move is to strengthen agriculture marketing and facilitate farmers to sell their harvested produce through the online portal.
e-NAM platform:
The 177 new mandis are from 10 States and Union Territories (UTs).
The mandis integrated are as follows: Gujarat (17), Haryana (26), J&K (1), Kerala (5), Maharashtra (54), Odisha (15), Punjab (17), Rajasthan (25), Tamil Nadu (13) and West Bengal (1).
With the launch of 177 additional mandis, the total number of e-NAM mandis across the country is 962.
Earlier, 785 mandis were integrated with e-NAM across 17 States and 2 UTs, with a user base of 1.66 crore Farmers, 1.30 lakh traders, and 71,911 Commission Agents.
Currently, 150 commodities, including food grains, oilseeds, fibers, vegetables, and fruits, are being traded on e-NAM.
More than 1,005 Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) have been registered on the e-NAM platform and have traded 2900 MT of agri-produce worth Rs.7.92 Crores.
e-NAM:
National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) is an electronic trading portal across India. The objective of the portal is to integrate the existing Mandis to "One Nation One Market" for agricultural commodities in India. e-NAM was launched on 14 April 2016 by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Small Farmers Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC) is the lead agency for implementing e-NAM. The portal functions under the aegis of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare, GoI.
The NAM Portal provides a single-window service for all Agriculture Produce Market Committee (APMC) related information and services which includes commodity arrivals, quality & prices, provision to respond to trade offers, and electronic payment settlement directly into farmers' accounts and helping them for better market access.
- Madhya Pradesh launched first-ever FIR Aapke Dwar Yojana
Madhya Pradesh state government launched FIR Aapke Dwar Yojana 11 May in Bhopal. With this, Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in the country to implement such an innovative scheme. It was launched by the Madhya Pradesh Home Minister Dr. Narottam Mishra.
FIR Aapke Dwar Scheme:
Under the scheme, the people would not be required to visit the police station to lodge an FIR.
The scheme has been started as a pilot project in 23 Police Stations including one urban and one rural Police Station at 11 Divisional Headquarters.
Under the scheme, the Dial 100 vehicle will have trained Head Constables to lodge FIR.
FIRs in complaints of general nature will be lodged on the spot. In case of serious complaints, guidance will be sought from senior officers.
The Minister also launched helpline 'Dial 112'. It will facilitate the immediate availability of ambulance, police, and fire fighting services wherever needed.
- SAI forms committee to prepare SOP to resume training post COVID-19 lockdown
The Sports Authority of India (SAI) has constituted a six-member committee to prepare a module for a phased resumption of training. The Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju announced that the athletes can start practice once the COVID-19 lockdown is lifted.
Highlights:
The committee will prepare a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for the phased resumption of training across sporting disciplines at all its centres.
The six-member panel will be headed by RohitBharadwaj SAI secretary. The members of the committee are: CEO Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) Rajesh Rajagopalan, Executive Director (Operations) SS Roy, SS Sarla, Col BK Nayak and Assistant Director TOPS Sachin K as members.
The committee will recommend the Standard Operating Procedures. It will describe several protocols and preventive measures to be observed by all stakeholders, including trainees, coaches, technical and non-technical support staff, NSFs, administrators, mess and hostel staff, and visitors, once training resumes.
The SOPs will also give detailed guidelines to be followed on entry norms, sanitization guidelines, precautions to be taken in common areas, and by athletes while travelling to and from the centre.
Also, a separate committee has been formed to prepare an SOP for swimming, since pool activities involve different health risks compared to other sports.
The committee for swimming will be headed by RadhicaSreeman, Executive Director, TEAMS Division of SAI. The members of the committee will include MonalChoksi, secretary-general of the Swimming Federation of India, senior coaches, and doctors.
The committee will draw up the guidelines in consultation with coaches and medical practitioners to ensure all preventive measures are put in place before swimmers resume training.
- NAL develops BiPAP Non-Invasive Ventilator SwasthVayu in 36 days for coronavirus
CSIR-National Aerospace Laboratories (NAL) Bangalore has developed SwasthVayu, a Non-Invasive Bilevel Positive Airway Pressure (BiPAP) Ventilator in a record time of 36 days to treat COVID-19 patients.
SwasthVayu:
BiPAP Non-Invasive ventilator is a microcontroller-based precise closed-loop adaptive control system with a built-in biocompatible 3D printed manifold & coupler with Highly Efficient Particulate Air Filter (HEPA Filter).
The system has been developed with unique features help to alleviate the fear of the virus spread. It has features like Spontaneous, CPAP, Timed, AUTO BIPAP modes with provision to connect Oxygen concentrator or Enrichment unit externally.
The system has been certified for safety and performance by NABL accredited agencies.
The system has undergone stringent biomedical tests and beta clinical trials at NAL Health Centre.
SwasthVayu machine is simple to use without any specialized nursing, cost-effective, compact and configured with a majority of indigenous components.
BIPAP Non-Invasive Ventilator has been developed with an externally connected Oxygen concentrator which will be ideal to treat moderate or mid-stage severe COVID-19 patients who do not require intubation and invasive ventilation.
- Technology Centres to manufacture critical parts of Real-Time Quantitative Micro PCR System
Technology Centres, Bhubaneswar, Jamshedpur and Kolkata of the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) are now manufacturing critical parts of Real-Time Quantitative Micro PCR System for AMTZ, Visakhapatnam.
Highlights:
The machine can give the COVID-19 Test result in less than one hour. Generally, the normal test result takes a minimum of 24 hours.
These machines are compact and may be taken for testing anywhere, anytime, in real-time.
The teams of the Technology Centers are working in 2/3 shifts to supply components for 600 Testing machines.
150 Testing Machine components have already been supplied to AMTZ.
The stainless steel components with an accuracy of 5 microns are being manufactured on the best machines of the world.
The Corona Testing Device will be helpful to carry out testing at an affordable cost. The manufacture of the machine was made possible with active collaboration and support by the Technology Centres of the Ministry of MSME located at Bhubaneswar, Jamshedpur, and Kolkata.
- PM Modi announces Rs.20-lakh-crore package for ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a Rs.20-lakh-crore special economic package, which is almost equal to 10 per cent of the country’s GDP.
Meanwhile, he indicated that the lockdown will continue beyond May 17 but in a totally different form.
“This package will lay emphasis on land, labour, liquidity and laws,” Modi said, in his fourth televised address to the nation in the last two months.
The package included the first tranche of the stimulus amounting to Rs.1.70-lakh crore on March 26 and multiple policy measures including the Rs.3.74-lakh-crore liquidity infusion by the Reserve Bank of India.
From Wednesday, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman will start providing details of various measures proposed to address the concerns of all sections of the economy including migrant labourers, small vendors, farmers and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
Titled ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ (Self Reliant India Campaign), the package will focus on supply chain in the farm sector, taxation, simple and clear rules/regulations, sound infrastructure, competent and efficient labour force and a strong financial system.
These reforms will promote business, attract investment, and further strengthen ‘Make in India’.
5 Pillars:
The 5 pillars announced by the PM are:
1) The Economical changes that will not only bring incremental change but help in quantum jump.
2) Infrastructures that will become symbol of modern India.
3) Technology-driven system will help fulfill the dreams of the 21st century.
4) The demography of India is the source and strength of self-reliant India.
5) The supply cycle and demand will be focused to make sure the country harnesses its complete potential.
- Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan ranks among biggest in world
Government of India allocated total spending of Rs.20 lakh crore under "Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan or Self-reliant India Mission" to fight the COVID-19 pandemic.
This is among the largest economic stimulus package announced by nations across the world. The allocated fund is about 10% of India's GDP in 2019-20. With this move, India would rank behind Japan, the US, Sweden, Australia, and Germany.
Highlights:
The relief package includes Rs.1.7 lakh crore package the government had announced in March and the steps were taken by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) such as liquidity enhancing measures and interest rate cuts.
The Rs.20 lakh crore package includes:
In March, India committed Rs.1.7 lakh crore ($22.6 billion) in COVID-19 related relief measures that included free foodgrains to poor and some cash to poor senior citizens and women.
IN March, the RBI announced Rs.3.7 lakh crore of liquidity support and another Rs.2 lakh crore in April.
The RBI had also said its measures provided support equivalent to 3.5% of the GDP.
Other countries:
Japan has announced a package equivalent to 21.1% of its GDP.
The US measures work out at an estimated 13% of GDP.
Sweden has announced a stimulus equal to 12% of its GDP
Australia allocated 10.8% of GDP to tackle COVID-19.
Germany has announced spending of around $815 billion, equal to 10.7% of its GDP.
- Delhi Police launched Thermal Corona Combat Headgear to enhance social distancing
Delhi Police launched Thermal Corona Combat Gear (TCCH) through which police personnel will be able to detect the temperature of a large number of people from a distance of 10-15 metres. The initiative was launched by the police in collaboration with Indian Robotics Solution (IRS).
Highlights:
The first of its kind of equipment will ensure the safety of the frontline warriors and enforce social distancing.
The wearer of the headgear will be able to scan the elevated body temperature-EBT. It will help in thermally scanning individuals from a safe distance of 10m to 15m.
With the help of this equipment, live imagery can be sent to a centralized control centre. Frontline workers can scan people without coming in close contact with them in public areas such as hospitals, supermarkets, and crowded areas.
Thermal Corona Combat Drone-(TCCD):
The Delhi Police has also launched a 'Thermal Corona Combat Drone-(TCCD)' in tow with the same startup. The drone is fitted with a day-vision camera that can see the real image of the personnel, a disinfectant tank to sanitize an area when a suspected person is taken away for further tests, a spotlight with a night utility camera, a loudspeaker for giving instructions and a medical box to carry essentials like medicines or portable coronavirus testing kits. The drone has been successfully tested at Majnu ka Tila Basti, three slums in Noida Sector 15 and 16, and Gurugram where over more than 150 people were screened effectively as a sample size.
- Haryana to provide tap water connection to all rural households by 2022 December
Haryana state government announced that it is to provide tap water connection to all rural households by December 2022. The State has provided 1.05 lakh tap connections during 2019-20 under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).
Highlights:
Haryana expects to be among the leading states to accomplish the ambitious target of providing a tap connection to each rural household.
Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation reported there are 28.94 lakh households in Haryana, out of which 18.83 lakh are already provided with Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTCs). Of the remaining 10.11 lakh households, Haryana plans to provide tap connections in 7 lakh households by 2020-21.
During 2020, the State is planning for 100% coverage of 1 district and 2,898 villages out of a total of 6,987 villages.
Amid COVID-19 pandemic, the state government's attempt to provide household tap connections in rural areas will definitely improve the ease of living especially the women and girls. This will reduce their drudgery, making them safe and lead a dignified life
- IIT-G, Duke-NUS carry out data-driven assessment of COVID-19 situation in India
Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati (IIT-Guwahati) and the Duke-NUS Medical School, Singapore have partnered and used data science models to analyze and predict the total number of infected people for different States in India in the next 30 days.
Highlights:
The researchers used the Susceptible Infectious Susceptible (SIS) models, along with the model-free daily infection-rate and analyzed factors in the exponential, the logistic model.
The report is based on the growth of recent active cases, along with the daily infection-rate (DIR) values for each State.
A state is labelled as 'severe' if there is a non-decreasing trend in DIR values over the last two weeks along with a near exponential growth in active infected cases.
A state is labelled 'moderate' if an almost decreasing trend in DIR values is observed over the last two weeks along with neither increasing nor decreasing growth in active infected cases.
A state is labelled 'controlled' if a decreasing trend in the last two weeks' DIR values is observed along with a decreasing growth in active infected cases.
The researchers recommended that this composite prediction will be used for assessment purposes for each State. States that are in a severe category are expected to take serious preventive measures immediately to combat the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Jammu and Kashmir to provide tap water to every household by 2022 December
Jammu and Kashmir announced that it will provide a tap water connection to all rural households by December 2022 under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). In the year 2020, the State is planning for 100% coverage of all 5,000 villages of 3 districts namely Gandharbal, Srinagar, and Raisi.
Highlights:
Action plan for the move was submitted to the Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation.
There are 18.17 lakh households in the Union Territory (UT), out of which 5.75 lakhs are already provided with Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs). Out of the remaining households, J&K plans to provide 1.76 lakh households by 2020-21.
The UT is likely to get Rs.680 crore as the Central government's share under JJM for the current financial year. The Union Territory is eligible for additional allocation based on physical and financial performance.
The UT Administration is planning 100% coverage by December 2022 ahead of the national goal by 2024-25.
Out of 98 water testing laboratories, the UT plans NABL accreditation of 10 labs during 2020. Field Testing Kits will be provided at the community level for testing water quality for taking corrective measures.
Village Action Plans have been carried out for villages, based on which the action plan has been finalized. The aim is to mobilize the community to inculcate a sense of ownership.
Jal Jeevan Mission:
The main objective of Jal Jeevan Mission is to provide every rural household in the country an FHTC for drinking water in an adequate quantity of prescribed quality on a regular and long-term basis at affordable service delivery charges leading to improvement in their living standards. Through the mission, the Government intends to ensure the rural communities are safe from being infected amidst the COVIDid-19 pandemic by providing the poor and marginalized sections of the society water supply through tap connections inside their house premises.
- NDB provides USD 1 billion loan to India to fight COVID-19 pandemic
The Shanghai-based New Development Bank of the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) countries have fully disbursed $1 billion emergency assistance loan to India to help it contain the spread of COVID-19 and reduce human, social and economic losses caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The 'Emergency Assistance Program Loan' to India was approved by the NDB Board of Directors on 30 April.
Highlights:
The move aims to mobilize resources for infrastructure and sustainable development projects in BRICS countries and other emerging economies and developing nations, complementing the existing efforts of multilateral and regional financial institutions for global growth and development.
It is aimed to support the Indian government to contain the spread of COVID-19 and reduce human, social and economic losses caused by the coronavirus outbreak.
The programme includes Healthcare Sector Emergency Response and Strengthening Social Safety Net for expenditures already incurred since 1 January 2020.
It aims to prevent, detect, and respond to the threat posed by the COVID-19, funding critical healthcare expenditure that will enhance healthcare capacity in India and strengthen national health systems preparedness and provide immediate economic assistance to the vulnerable and affected groups. It will facilitate economic and social recovery.
- Anunta won VMware 2020 Regional Partner of the Year Award
Anunta received the VMware 2020 Regional Partner of the Year Award for the Services Excellence category. Anunta was recognized for its demonstrable achievements using its skills and services capabilities, including consulting, managed, and subscription services, to help customers maximize the value received from their VMware investments.
Highlights:
Anunta was honoured under the Services Excellence category.
Anunta's innovative solutions work on the next generation users including cloud based-desktop services was recognized.
The VMware Partner of the Year Awards various categories including Services Excellence, Partner Value, Partner Social Impact, Digital Transformation, Cloud Platform Transformation, Partner Trailblazer, and the Global Partner for Technology Innovation Award.
- Study states that Indias under-5 mortality rate since 2000 dropped by 49 percent
Two scientific papers of India on child survival by the State-Level Disease Burden Initiative stated that the under-5 Mortality Rate in India has dropped by 49% since 2000. Also, there is a six-fold variation in the rate between states and an 11-fold variation between various districts.
Highlights:
The study highlighted that there were 1.04 million under-5 deaths in 2017, down from 2.24 million in 2000. Neonatal deaths were reduced from 1.02 million in 2000 to 0.57 million in 2017.
Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR) was reduced by 38% since 2000. There is a 5-fold variation in the rate between the states and 8-fold variation between the districts of India.
It also highlighted the child mortality and child growth failure indicators have improved substantially across India from 2000 to 2017. Also, inequality between districts has increased.
It highlighted that over 68% of under-5 deaths in India are attributable to the child and maternal malnutrition.
It also reported the largest contributors within this risk factor are low birth weight and short gestation of 46% and child growth failure of 21%.
11% of under-5 deaths are attributable to unsafe water and sanitation and 9% to air pollution. Meanwhile, 83% of the neonatal deaths are attributable to low birth weight and shorter gestation.
The study stated that leading causes of under-5 deaths in India are lower respiratory infections of 17.9%, preterm birth of 15.6%, diarrhoeal diseases of 9.9%, and birth asphyxia and trauma of 8.1%. The death rate for all the major causes decreased between 2000 and 2017.
- IIT-Guwahati organized Poster Making Competition under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat Campaign
Indian Institute of Information Technology Guwahati (IIIT-Guwahati) recently organized a Poster Making Competition under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat (EBSB) Campaign. The Ministry for Human Resource Development (HRD) is the nodal ministry for EBSB campaign which is run along with several other partner ministries and states. Students participated from their homes for the competition held online due to the COVID-19 lockdown.
Highlights:
IIITG is committed to conducting the events under the banner of EBSB to promote knowledge on the paired state Rajasthan among the students.
The topic of the competition was "RAJASTHAN TOURISM AND TRAVELS".
The poster making event was held in two categories- Digital and Handmade category.
A total of 14 participants, of which 9 in the digital category and 5 in the handmade category.
Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat:
Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 31 October, 2015. It was launched on the occasion of the 140th birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. The campaign aims to promote the knowledge of the culture, traditions, and practices of different States & Union Territories (UT) will lead to an enhanced understanding and bonding between the States. It aims to strengthen the unity and integrity of India. The campaign also focuses on creating an environment that promotes learning between States by sharing best practices and experiences.
- Nafed procures Pulses and Oilseeds amid lockdown
National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India (NAFED), under the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare, Government of India, procured pulses and oilseeds amid lockdown.
Procurement of crops by NAFED:
Nafed procured 3.17 Lakh MT Gram (Chana) from 9 States namely Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and Haryana.
3.67 Lakh MT Mustard has been procured from 5 States namely Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat, and Haryana.
1.86 Lakh MT Toor has been procured from 8 States namely Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and Odisha.
In Rabi Marketing Season (RMS) 2020-21, a total of 277.38 Lakh MT wheat is arrived in Food Corporation of India (FCI) out of which 268.90 Lakh MT is purchased.
In Rabi season 2020-21, a total of 3208 designated procurement centers for Rabi pulses and oilseeds are available in 11 States.
Also, during the lockdown period around 9.25 crore farmer families have been benefitted and an amount of Rs.18,517 crore has been released so far.
About NAFED:
NAFED was established on 2 October 1958. Nafed was registered under the Multi-State Co-operative Societies Act. The main objective of Nafed is to promote Co-operative marketing of agricultural produce to benefit the farmers. Agricultural farmers are the main members of Nafed, who have the authority to say in the form of members of the General Body in the working of Nafed.
- Bhagalpur Smart City uses innovative technological initiatives to fight COVID-19 pandemic
Bhagalpur Smart City Limited (BSCL) has taken several measures to combat COVID-19 using various initiatives. Use of International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and technology for guiding and spreading awareness has been the cornerstone for BSCLs support to the city in the fight against COVID-19.
Key initiatives:
The key initiatives taken up by BSCL include use of technology for spreading awareness; innovative IEC measures for sharing experience during lock-down periods; establishment of shelters for vulnerable population and distribution of supplies and food and other protection measures such as sanitizer preparation and distribution, mask and gloves distribution, disinfection tunnel and so on.
Mera Bhagalpur:
BSCL launched a mobile app named "Mera Bhagalpur" and used it to create awareness, provide important information at a single point, and engage people to keep their morale high during this pandemic period. Mera Bhagalpur mobile app has the following features: Daily City Updates regarding COVID-19, Do’s and Don’ts - to fight with COVID-19, Important Announcement by Government departments, List of Doctors, Emergency Numbers of all Government departments, List of Volunteers, Quick Contact, BSCL Channel.
BSCL has taken several initiatives to support the production of hand sanitizer and got the same distributed to Government departments, Corona Warriors, and residents.
BSCL launched a storytelling series with a tagline 'Lockdown Ke Panney', for sharing a new story which is based on various experiences of the lockdown period. It aims to introspect and explore the people's hidden talents, appreciation of sacrifices done by homemakers and housewives for family, and motivates them to connect with nature, improves bonding with family and understanding of Rich Indian Culture.
- DST supports assistive tools to combat challenges faced by Divyangjan, Elderly during COVID-19 pandemic
The Department of Science and Technology (DST) has taken several measures to mitigate the impact of COVID-19 among Divyangjan and Elderly. It has identified various challenges faced by them for finding technological solutions.
Highlights:
The Science for Equity Empowerment and Development (SEED) Division of DST has supported organizations that have been instrumental in developing various assistive tools, technologies, and techniques through its programme on Technology Interventions for Disabled and Elderly (TIDE).
The programme aims to create inclusiveness and universal accessibility for Divyangjan and Elderly.
Assistive tools:
Under this programme, an e-Tool to create awareness and impart health and hygiene-related information along with education and entertainment to overcome the loneliness of the persons with intellectual disabilities, due to the COVID-19 pandemic is used. It was developed by Rajalakshmi Engineering College, Chennai.
This will help persons with Intellectual Disability to learn with fun through Tabs and mobiles. The e-Tool can also be converted to other vernacular languages and the Beta Version of the e-tool is being used by 200 specially-abled children.
A wearable sensor device has been developed by PSG College of Technology, Coimbatore to remotely monitor the activities of Elderly and Divyangjan staying alone or those who happen to be under quarantine or isolation wards. The device costs Rs.1500 when produced in bulk.
A wearable rehabilitation band with real-time monitoring and feedback of the recovery process through guided rehabilitation protocols has been developed for the elderly with motor function disabilities.
- India ranked 74th on the global Energy Transition Index
As per the World Economic Forum (WEF) annual rankings, India has secured the 74th position on the global Energy Transition Index (ETI). In the previous year, India ranked 76th.
Key findings:
India showed improvements in all key parameters of economic growth, energy security, and environmental sustainability.
In WEF rankings, Sweden topped for a third consecutive year in the ETI. It is followed by Switzerland and Finland in the second and third positions respectively.
The 2020 results showed that 75% of countries have improved their environmental sustainability.
India:
India has gained from a government-mandated renewable energy expansion programme, which has now extended to 275 GW by 2027.
As per the report, India has made significant strides in energy efficiency through bulk procurement of LED bulbs, smart meters, and programs for labelling of appliances. India is also experimenting with similar measures to drive down the costs of electric vehicles (EV).
India's improvement has come in economic development and growth, energy access and security, and environmental sustainability.
- PM CARES Fund allocates Rs.3,100 crore for migrant workers, ventilators and vaccine development
Prime Ministers Citizen Assistance and Relief in Emergency Situations (PM CARES) trust has allocated Rs.3,100 crore for fight against COVID-19 pandemic.
Highlights:
Out of the total, a sum of around Rs.2,000crore will be earmarked for the purchase of ventilators. To tackle COVID-19 cases across the country, 50,000 Made-in-India ventilators will be purchased. The ventilators will be provided to government-run COVID hospitals in all States and Union Territories (UTs) for better treatment of the critical COVID-19 cases.
For the welfare of the migrants and poor, the States/UTs will be given an assistance of total Rs.1,000crore. It will be used to strengthen the efforts in providing medical treatment, accommodation facilities, making food arrangements, and making transportation arrangements of the migrants.
To support the COVID-19 vaccine designers and developers, a sum of Rs.100 crore will be given.
- ICMR issues guidance on COVID-19 rapid antibody test kits
The apex health research body, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), issued guidance on rapid antibody test kits for COVID-19 and also listed the manufacturers on 14 May.
The manufacturers were listed as the importer licenses of two Chinese firms, namely Guangzhou Wondfo Biotech and Zhuhai Livzon Diagnostics, which were cancelled by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) after kits supplied by them showed wide-variation under field conditions.
Highlights:
In its guidance, ICMR stated that these rapid antibody tests are not recommended for the diagnosis of COVID-19 infection. The testing technique is used to detect antibodies in the blood of people who may have had coronavirus infection.
The tests will be done on plasma samples or serum samples or blood samples. The results of the tests will be available in 30 minutes.
So far, 42 antibody-based rapid tests has been validated at the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune.
The antibody test kits are used only for surveillance as there are high chances of these kits producing false negatives at the early stages of COVID-19.
The list of firms includes Abbott Laboratories Zydus Cadilla, HLL Life care Limited, India, and SIDAK Life Care Pvt. Ltd, among others.
- Ministry of AYUSH, CSIR partners to conduct trial for 4 AYUSH formulations to fight coronavirus
The Ministry of AYUSH and the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) have partnered to validate four Ayush formulations against COVID-19. The trials are expected to start within one week. The results will be given in 3 months.
Highlights:
The partnership is a clinical study multi-centric in different parts of the country and variable design. for this purpose, a task-force has been formed and have prepared guideline for the clinical trial
Under the move, four candidates namely Ashwagandha, Yashtimadhu (Mulethi), Guduchi + Pippali (Giloy), and AYUSH-64 will be used for the trial. These drugs were invented for the treatment of malaria. Repurposing is currently going on.
Under the partnership, a competitive study between Hydroxychloroquine and Ashwagandha has been planned.
The four formulations will be tried as an add-on therapy and standard care for COVID-19 patients.
- CAPF canteens to sell Indigenous Products from 1 June
Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) announced that all the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) canteens and stores across the country will sell only indigenous products, from 1 June 2020. The move comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi appealed for “vocal for local”. The announcement was made by the Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
Highlights:
The total purchase value of the move by MHA would be around Rs.2800 crore.
Under this move, 50 lakh family members of about 10 lakh CAPF personnel will use indigenous products.
MHA directed the people to use the products made in the country as much as possible and encourage others to do the same.
The move aims to turn the COVID-19 crisis into an opportunity.
- KVIC issues revised guidelines to implement Vocal for Local initiative
The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) issued revised guidelines to expedite the implementation of projects under the flagship programme Prime Minister's Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) to hand-hold local production. The move comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "vocal for local" appeal.
Revised guidelines:
KVIC instructed the agencies concerned to scrutinize the applications under PMEGP and forward it to banks for disbursal of funds within 26 days.
The commission aims to bring down this time-frame to 15 days.
It also made it mandatory for implementing agencies to guide and hand-hold the applicants for the formulation of proposals and assist them till sanction of loan. KVIC instructed all its agencies to follow up with banks for the early sanction of loans.
As per the revised guidelines, the Monitoring Cell at KVIC, Mumbai will monitor the application process on a daily basis. Also, it will give feedback to the implementing agencies every fortnight. The progress report will be placed for the perusal of the CEO and Chairman of KVIC.
As per the guidelines, the implementing agencies must ensure that the applicant has secured at least 60 marks out of 100 in the scorecard, at the time of scrutiny.
Similarly, technical feasibility like availability of raw material, manpower, access to transport, and electricity must be examined so as to reduce rejections at the bank level.
The implementing agencies of KVIC should examine the market study, assessment of demand for the proposed product, similar projects in the vicinity, and the market strategy.
The agencies should also ensure that the proposal falls under the selected bank's jurisdiction to avoid rejection on that ground.
- Finance Minister announced measures for relief and credit support related to businesses
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced a Special economic and comprehensive package of Rs.20 lakh crores on 13 May 2020, equivalent to 10% of India's GDP, for relief and credit support related to businesses, especially Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), to support Indian Economy's fight against COVID-19 pandemic. The Union Minister of Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman announced several measures of the Economic Package called Aatma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyaanor Self-Reliant India Movement.
Highlights:
Several measures included in the economic package are:
For businesses, including MSMEs, Rs.3 lakh crore emergency Working Capital Facility has been allocated
Rs.20,000crore Subordinate Debt for stressed MSMEs
Rs.50,000crore equity has been planned to be infused through MSME Fund of Funds
New Definition of MSME and other Measures for MSME
No Global tenders for Government tenders of up to Rs.200 crore
Extending the Employees Provident Fund Support for business and organized workers for another 3 months for salary months of June, July and August 2020
EPF Contribution to be reduced for Employers and Employees for 3 months to 10% from 12% for all establishments covered by EPFO for the next 3 months
Rs.30,000crore Special Liquidity Scheme for NBFC/HFC/MFIs
Rs.45,000 crore Partial credit guarantee Scheme 2.0 for Liabilities of Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFCs)/Micro Finance Institutions (MFIs).
Rs.90,000crore Liquidity Injection for power distribution companies (discoms).
Relief to Contractors given by extension of up to 6 months for completion of contractual obligations, including in respect of EPC and concession agreements
Relief to Real Estate Projects the registration and completion date for all registered projects will be extended up to six months.
Tax relief to business as pending income tax refunds to charitable trusts and non-corporate businesses and professions to be issued immediately
Reduction in Rates of 'Tax Deduction at Source' and 'Tax Collected at Source' by 25% for the remaining period of FY 20-21
Due Dates for various tax-related compliances have been extended.
- Narendra Singh Tomar held meeting Pesticide Manufacturing Industry representatives to prevent locust attacks
The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar held a meeting with representatives of the Pesticide Manufacturing Industry through video conferencing to check the strategy to prevent locust attacks on agricultural fields.
Measures:
GoI is taking several measures to ensure uninterrupted sowing and harvesting operations amid lockdown.
The Central and State Governments are working together on the Desert Locust Control measures and have been able to check its spread. In this regard, mew machines have been ordered from the United Kingdom.
The locust invasion was first noticed in 2019 and the farmers were taken unawares as it took place after decades.
The Centre has compensated farmers who suffered losses from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) Fund.
Amid COVID-19 lockdown, the Locust Control Offices have been working since 11 April 2020 with 50 spray equipment/vehicles, in coordination with officials of the District Administration and State Agriculture Department.
Tractor mounted sprayers and fire-tender vehicles are deployed at various locations in locust control. Additional equipment is also being procured to increase the control capacity of Locust Control Organizations.
- Finance Minister announced third Tranche of Rs.20 lakh Economic Package
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced the third Tranche of Rs.20 lakh Economic Package on 15 May in New Delhi. On 12 May, Prime Minister Modi announced an Economic relief Package of Rs.20 lakh crore with an aim of making it "Atma Nirbhar" or self-reliant.
Highlights:
GoI is to create a facilitative legal framework to enable farmers to engage with processors, aggregators, large retailers, exporters in a fair and transparent manner.
Centre will formulate a law to provide adequate choices to the farmers to sell produce at an attractive price, barrier-free interstate trade, and framework for e-trading of agricultural produce.
GoI will implement a Rs.500 crore scheme of infrastructure development related to integrated beekeeping development centres, collection, marketing & storage centres, post-harvest, and value addition facilities. It is expected to lead to an increase in income of 2 lakh bee-keepers.
The National Medicinal Plants Board will bring an 800-hectare area by developing a corridor of medicinal plants along the banks of river Ganga.
Centre allocated Rs.4000 crore for the promotion of herbal cultivation. Under this, 10,00,000 hectares will be covered in the next 2 years.
Government has decided to amend the Essential Commodities Act. It will enable better price realization for farmers and attract investments that will lead to deregulation of prices for cereals, edible oils, oilseeds, pulses, onions, and potatoes.
Centre also announced the Animal Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund of Rs.15,000 crore to support investment in dairy processing.
Centre announced Rs.4,000 crore for promotion of herbal cultivation to bring 10 lakh hectares of land under herbal growing in the next 2 years.
A total outlay of Rs.13,343 crore has been allocated for the National Animal Disease Control Programme for Foot and Mouth Disease and Brucellosis.
Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana for the development of marine and inland fisheries will be given Rs.20,000 crore. It is expected to generate job opportunities for 55 lakh people.
All Covid-19 related deadline extensions relating to fisheries activities which are aimed to help marine and coastal farmers will be undertaken.
Government is to introduce a Rs.10,000 crores scheme for the formalization of Micro Food Enterprises (MFE).
Government aims to create an Rs.1 lakh crore Agri-Infrastructure Fund for farm gate infrastructure for Indian farmers.
As an additional step for agriculture during the lockdown, Centre has announced an amount more than Rs.74,300 crores for Minimum Support Price purchases and Rs.18,700 crore for Kisan fund transfer.
- Sohrai Khovar painting, Telia Rumal gets GI Tag
Sohrai Khovar painting and Telia Rumal were given the Geographical Indication (GI) tag by the Geographical Indications Registry headquartered in Chennai.
Sohrai Khovar painting:
Jharkhand's Sohrai Khovar painting is a traditional and ritualistic mural art. It is practised by local tribal women during local harvest and marriage seasons. The art is drawn using the local, naturally available soils of different colours in the area of the Hazaribagh district of Jharkhand.
The art is traditionally painted on the walls of mud houses. It is now seen on other surfaces, too.
The style features a profusion of lines, dots, animal figures, and plants, often representing religious iconography.
Telia Rumal:
Telia Rumals are offered at the Ajmer Sharif dargah in Rajasthan. The cloth is worn as a veil by princesses at the erstwhile court of the Nizam of Hyderabad and as a turban cloth by Arabs in the Middle East.
Telangana's Telia Rumal cloth involves intricate handmade work with cotton loom displaying a variety of designs and motifs in three particular colours namely red, black and white.
The cloth can only be created using the traditional handloom process and not by any other mechanical means. If not, it will lose the very quality of the Rumal.
- Foodgrains production in India to touch record 295.67 MT in 2019-20 crop year
Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare stated that India's foodgrain production has been estimated to touch a record of 295.67 million tonnes (MT) in the 2019-20 crop year. The Ministry released the third advance estimate.
Highlights:
As per the data provided by the Agriculture Ministry, it is the fourth consecutive year that the country has witnessed record production buoyed by good rains.
This data showed an increase of 10.46 MT from 285.21 MT achieved in the 2018-19 crop year.
Record output is estimated in rice, wheat, coarse cereals, oilseeds, and cotton during the 2019-20 crop year (July-June).
Rice and wheat production is estimated to set a record with 117.94 MT and 107.18 MT, respectively this year.
- Harsh Vardhan dedicated COBAS 6800 testing machine
Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Dr. Harsh Vardhan dedicated the COBAS 6800, first of its kind, testing machine at the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to the nation on 14 May.
GoI has procured such testing machines for testing of COVID-19 cases for the first time. It is installed at NCDC.
COBAS 6800:
COBAS 6800 is a fully automated, high-end machine that performs real-time PCR testing COVID-19 in the service of the nation.
The device will provide high quality, high-volume testing with a high throughput of around 1200 samples in 24 hours. It will largely increase the testing capacity with the reduction in pendency.
The machine is enabled with robotics that will minimize the chance of contamination and the risk of infection to the health care workers as it can be operated remotely with limited human intervention.
The machine requires a minimum BSL2+ containment level for testing and hence it cannot be placed at just any facility.
COBAS 6800 can also detect other pathogens like HIV, Papilloma, CMV, Chlamydia, Viral Hepatitis B & C, MTb (both rifampicin and isoniazide resistance), Neiserreia, etc.
GoI has developed the capacity to conduct 1,00,000 tests per day. As of 14 May, nearly 20 lakh tests for COVID-19 have been tested in India at more than 500 laboratories including 359 Government laboratories and 145 private laboratories in the country.
- Rajnath Singh commissioned Indian Coast Guard ships
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh commissioned Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) Sachet and two interceptor boats (IBs) C-450 and C-451 in Goa through video conferencing from Delhi on 15 May. The ships are indigenously designed and built in the line of the Prime Minister's 'Make in India' vision.
Highlights:
Commissioning of these ships is an important milestone in India's coastal capability building process. The move is in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi's vision 'Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)'.
ICGS Sachet:
The ICGS Sachet, the first in the series of five offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) has been designed and built indigenously by Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL). It is fitted with state-of-the-art navigation and communication equipment.
Sachet is 105 metre long. It displaces approximately 2,350 tons and is propelled by two 9,100 KW diesel engines designed to attain a maximum speed of 26 knots, with an endurance of 6,000 nautical miles.
The ship has been designed to carry a twin-engine helicopter and four high-speed boats and one inflatable boat for swift boarding and search and rescue operations.
The ship can carry limited pollution response equipment to undertake oil spill pollution response at sea.
IBs C-450 and C-451:
The IBs C-450 and C-451 are indigenously designed and built by Larsen & Toubro Shipyard Hazira. It is fitted with the latest navigation and communication equipment.
The 30 metre longboats are capable of achieving speeds in excess of 45 knots and designed for the high-speed interception, close coast patrol, and low-intensity maritime operations.
The quick response capability of the IBs makes it an ideal platform to respond and thwart any emerging maritime situation.
IBs have about 70% of indigenous content, thus providing the necessary fillip to the Indian shipbuilding industry.
The ships will join the Coast Guard fleet. It will be deployed extensively for Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) surveillance, coastal security, and other duties as enshrined in the Coast Guard charter of duties, to safeguard the maritime interests of the Nation.
- Tribal Affairs Ministry, FB launched Goal programme for Digital Skilling of Tribal Youth across India
Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Arjun Munda launched the "Going Online As Leaders (GOAL) programme" of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) in partnership with Facebook at a Webinar in New Delhi on 15 May. The programme is in line with the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
GOAL programme:
The GOAL programme has been designed to provide mentorship to tribal youth through digital mode.
The digitally-enabled program envisages acting as a catalyst to explore the hidden talents of the tribal youth, which will help in their personal development and contribute to all-round upliftment of their society.
Digital literacy has gained importance in view of challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The program intends to upskill and empower 5,000 tribal youths in the current phase to harness the full potential of digital platforms and tools to learn new ways of doing business, explore and connect with domestic and international markets. The digital skilling and technology will integrate them into the mainstream.
The programme has been designed with a long term vision to develop the potential of tribal youth and women to help them acquire skills and knowledge through mentorship in various sectors including horticulture, food processing, bee keeping, tribal art and culture, medicinal herbs, entrepreneurship among others.
It will enable Scheduled Tribe (ST) youth in remote areas to use digital platforms for sharing their aspirations, dreams, and talent with their mentors.
The programme also aims to create awareness amongst tribal beneficiaries about various schemes initiated by Central and State Governments for welfare of STs as well as their fundamental duties.
- Health Ministry issued guidelines for RT-PCR pool sampling for migrants
Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued a guideline for Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) based pooled sampling for migrants, returnees from abroad, and green zones.
Guidelines:
The guidelines are for the surveillance purposes of migrant labourers and international passengers who are in institutional quarantine facilities.
Pooled sampling will be conducted for surveillance purposes in green zones districts which have not reported any COVID-19 positive case in the last 21 days.
The guidelines state that a cohort of 25 people will be identified and the throat or nasal swab will be collected as per the Indian Council for Medical Research's (ICMR) protocol.
The pooled samples from 25 specimens will be tested in the lab by the RT-PCR method. The report will then be conveyed to the quarantine facility within 24 hours.
If any of the pooled samples are tested positive, then individual samples from the preserved pool would be tested. Samples will be preserved in the laboratory.
- Gujarat to implement sensor-based service delivery monitoring system under Jal Jeevan Mission
Gujarat state government is to implement a sensor-based service delivery monitoring system in the rural drinking water sector under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM). The pilot project is already underway in two districts of the state.
The state is primarily a water-stressed state. It has dealt with the crisis with a very strategic approach so far. The state has good community involvement in drinking water supply management, which began in 2002 through Water and Sanitation Management Organisation (WASMO).
The state recovers around 70% of annual O&M expenditure from the community in the form of water service charges.
Highlights:
The project aims to monitor the functionality of water supply, which is potable water in adequate quantity and of prescribed quality being provided to every rural household on regularly on a long-term basis.
The Department of Drinking Water & Sanitation finalized the Annual Action Plan for providing household tap connections to rural households for the FY 2020-21. The state also has set up plans to face the difficulties in achieving the Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTCs).
Out of 93.6 lakh rural households in the State, 65 lakh, over 70%, are already having household tap connections.
The state govt. plans to provide 11.15 lakh household tap connections in rural areas in 2020-21.
Gujarat state has set the target year of 100% coverage by the year September 2022.
- MHRD launched e-Governance platform, SAMARTH
Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) has developed an e-Governance platform, SAMARTH Enterprises Resource Planning (ERP), under the National Mission of Education in Information and Communication Technology Scheme (NMEICT).
Aim:
The aim of the e-Governance platform, SAMARTH, is to provide quality education to students across all Universities & Higher Education Institutions (HEIs). The objective of this initiative is to automate the processes of the Institute. This initiative will also enhance productivity through better information management in the institute by seamless access to information, and its utilization for various purposes.
SAMARTH:
SAMARTH is an Open Standard Open Source Architecture, Secure, Scalable, and Evolutionary Process Automation Engine for Universities and Higher Educational Institutions.
It caters to faculty, students and staff at a University/Higher Educational Institutions.
The platform has been implemented at the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Kurukshetra, a participating unit under the World Bank-supported Technical Education Quality Improvement Program (TEQIP).
So far, a total of 38 modules have been implemented in NIT, Kurukshetra. They are Organigram, Organizational Unit, Users, Employee Management, Grievance Management (Employee), RTI Management, Legal Case Management, Leave Management, Estate Management, Fee Management, Vendor Bill Tracking, File Management & Tracking, Inventory Management, Research Project Management, Programmes Management, Payroll, Recruitment Management, Health Facilities Management, Knowledge Management, Transport Management, Content Federation (CFS), Training & Placements, Hostel Management, Budget and Accounts, Sports Facilities Management, Uni Web Portal, Student Lifecycle, Endowment, College Affiliation, Student Feedback Management, Minutes and Retrieval/Document, Essential Services, Alumni Management, Core Communication, IT Service Desk, Training of Trainers Management(ToT) and Residence Allocation.
SAMARTH team provides the software free of cost to NIT, Kurukshetra.
- Visakhapatnam Smart COC functions round the clock for COVID-19 management
The Smart City Operations Centre (COC) of Visakhapatnam operates 24x7 in three shifts to manage COVID-19. Covid Helpdesk or the Contact center at COC traces and monitors foreign returned citizens in coordination with CMOH & DMOH on a day to day basis.
Highlights of COC:
The centre announces cautionary measures and information related to COVID-19 through Public Announcements Systems installed across 90 locations in the city.
It passes COVID-19 information disseminated through digital sign boards that are installed at 10 key locations across the city.
The surveillance system, 500 cameras installed across the city, monitors important areas and key junctions.
The helpdesk/contact center is functional 24x7 to coordinate with line departments like public health, city and district level officers from time to time. A toll-free number set-up at COC to answer emergency calls and follows up with line departments accordingly.
A mobile application developed to trace and map all foreign returnees. Based on the information received through the mobile application, cluster mapping and high-risk colour coding map was digitized wherein category wise clusters were formed, that is, 0-14, 15- 28, and above 28 days were identified using GIS in COC.
The 20 Rapid Response Teams (RRT) formed in Visakhapatnam and these teams are being tracked through the Mobile tabs fixed in respective team Ambulances.
4 Mobile teams were formed for sample collection for symptomatic citizens. The teams are being monitored through COC through mobile Tab based tracking. Further, the concerned doctors submit details of the citizens through mobile applications on a real-time basis.
Door to Door survey by Volunteers is monitored and reports placed before concerned committee in-charges regularly.
A mobile application being developed to monitor activities like bleaching and other sanitation activities in containment areas by the public health wing.
Essential and Grocery vendor details circulated through Social media. Dedicated help desk numbers 0891- 2869106, 2869110 circulated to attend any grievance related to essential & grocery issues.
- Five more States, UTs added under One Nation One Ration Card platform
The Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Ram Vilas Paswan approved the integration of 5 States and Union Territories (UTs) with the National Cluster under the "One Nation One Ration Card" plan. The 5 states/UTs include Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, and Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu.
Highlights:
Already 12 states are under the One Nation One Ration Card plan.
The 12 are Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Jharkhand, Kerala, Karnataka Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Telangana, and Tripura.
With this, the facility of national and inter-State portability will be available for nearly 60 crore National Food Security Act (NFSA) beneficiaries of 17 States/UT.
The beneficiaries may lift their entitled quota of foodgrains from any Fair Price Shop (FPS) of their choice, anywhere in these 17 States/UT by using their same or existing ration card under the One Nation One Ration Card plan.
The Department has shared the necessary guidelines for the implementation of national portability as it also imparted the requisite orientation training to the officers/technical teams of these 5 States/UTs.
Also, the required web-services for inter-State transactions and the central dashboards have been activated with immediate effect.
All the 17 States/UTs will formally commence seamless inter-State/national portability operations in a single cluster.
- CAIT to launch Bharatmarket, national e-commerce marketplace for retail traders
Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) has announced to launch 'Bharatmarket', a national e-commerce marketplace. It will be used for all retail traders in collaboration with several technology partners.
Bharatmarket:
Bharatmarket will integrate the capabilities of various technology companies to provide end-to-end services in the logistics and supply chains from manufacturers to end consumers, including deliveries at home.
The e-commerce portal will include nationwide participation by retailers and aims to bring 95%of retail traders onboard the platform, who would exclusively run the portal.
The initiative has had active support and guidance of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, as they see this as an effective way to get essential commodities to consumers during the lockdown period and within containment zones.
CAIT enrolls about one crore retailers on this e-marketplace in 2020 and makes it the world's largest and most-unique e-marketplace ever.
- PM holds meeting to boost agriculture sector and increase farmer’s income
Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a key meeting on the reforms in the agriculture sector and increase farmers income in India. The importance of the use of technology in the agriculture sector was emphasized in the meeting.
Highlights:
Prime Ministers and Ministers discussed the possibilities of the uniform statutory framework in the country to facilitate new ways for farming which will infuse capital and technology in the agrarian economy.
Discussion to make strategic interventions in the existing marketing eco-system and to bring appropriate reforms in the context of rapid agricultural development.
Developing e-NAM into a platform of platforms to enable e-commerce was one of the important topics of discussion.
They also discussed measures to strengthen the role of Farmer's Produce Organization (FPOs) to bring vibrancy in the agrarian economy, transparency in agriculture trade, and enable maximum benefits to the farmers.
- GoI transfers 2nd installment of Rs.500 into accounts of women beneficiaries under PMGKY
Government of India has released the second installment of Rs.500 under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojna (PMJDY). The money will be transferred directly into the accounts of women beneficiaries.
Highlights:
Under the Pradhan Mantri Gareeb Kalyan Yojana, every women beneficiary has to be provided three installments of Rs.500 starting from April 2020.
The second installment has been released to a large number of banks which will now credit the amount into the accounts of the beneficiaries.
Around 20 crore women beneficiaries received the first installment for last month in its first week.
Government has announced a date plan for beneficiaries to visit the bank in order to dispense the money so that adequate precaution of social distancing can be ensured.
- Environment Ministry approves the construction of new Parliament
The Expert Appraisal Committee of the Environment Ministry has approved the construction of the new Parliament building at a cost of Rs.922 crore. The committee cleared the controversial project in its April 22-24 meeting. The Central Vista committee has also approved the new plan.
Issues:
The plan was opposed by civil society organizations. The expert panel of the environment ministry has said the clearance for the project to build a new Parliament is subject to the decision of the Supreme court. The apex court, earlier, refused to stay the Central Vista Redevelopment project.
Project Highlights:
The project aims to build a triangular parliament building. It will revamp the 3-km long Raj Path from Rashtrapati Bhavan to India Gate.
The proposed Parliament Building will carry out Legislative functions, which is separate from Executive Functions to be carried out in other office buildings. Hence, it will not be considered as an integrated and inter-related project vis-à-vis the other proposed central vista buildings for the simple reason that it can definitely operate independently of the other structures.
- Ministry of Culture released Prof B.B. Lal -India Rediscovered on the 100th birth anniversary of Prof Lal
Union Culture Minister Shri Prahlad Singh Patel released an e-book "Prof B.B. Lal -India Rediscovered" on 2 May on the occasion of the centenary year of great archaeologist Professor B. B. Lal.
The book is a tribute from the Ministry of Culture for his immense contribution to the field of archaeology. The book is a centenary special edition that has been prepared by the Ministry of culture in collaboration with Prof B BLal Centenary Celebration Committee.
Prof B.B. Lal:
Prof Lal was born on 2 May 1921 in village Baidora, District Jhansi, Uttar Pradesh. The living legend rediscovered civilizational India buried under the colonial past. In a career spanning over 50 years, Prof Lal made an immense contribution to the field of archaeology.
He was trained by Sir Mortimer Wheeler at Taxila in 1944. He joined the Archaeological Survey of India. Prof. Lal excavated several important landmark sites including Hastinapura (Uttar Pradesh), Sisupalgarh (Orissa), PuranaQila (Delhi), Kalibangan (Rajasthan). From 1975-76 onwards, he investigated sites like Ayodhya, BharadvajaAshrama, Sringaverapura, Nandigrama, and Chitrakoota under the Archaeology of Ramayana Sites.
Prof Lal was conferred upon Padma Bhushan in 2000. He served as the Director-General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) from 1968 to 1972. He was also the Director of the Indian Institute of Advanced Studies, Shimla. Prof Lal also served on various UNESCO committees. He has authored 20 books and over 150 research articles on various national and international journals.
- Ministry of Shipping launched new website
Ministry of Shipping has revamped its website and launched its new version on 30 April 2020. The new website is based on open source technology and is deployed on NIC cloud Meghraj.
Shipping Ministry Website:
The website of the Shipping Ministry is http://shipmin.gov.in/
The website has been designed as per Guidelines for Indian Government Websites (GIGW) issued by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances, Government of India.
The new website has a well designed and dynamic Homepage.
Social Media Integration with a better video uploading facility is a new feature on this website.
- Ministry of Tourism organized 12th webinar of Dekho Apna Desh series
The 12th session of Dekho Apna Desh of Tourism Ministry was held on 30 April 2020. It was titled as 'Celebrating the Incredible Indian Women in Responsible Tourism'. It presented some powerful and personal stories of a few incredible women in India, who offer an alternative imagination of travel.
Aim:
The webinar series aims to create awareness about and promote various tourism destinations of India including the lesser-known destinations and lesser-known facets of popular destinations.
Highlights:
The webinar explained how individuals can create change in their life and the communities they live in through tourism.
It taught how to use local resources, staying in homestays, supporting undocumented new lesser know enterprises eating at a small family-owned restaurant, all make a huge difference to the locals and thus helps in growing the areas which benefit from tourism.
The webinar presented ten inspiring stories namely StanzinDolkar from Maan village; SunitaMarawi from BandhaTolavillage near Kanha, PhejinKonyak from Shiyong village in Mon district Nagaland; Laxmi a hospitality expert and masseuse from Delhi NCR; RekhaRautela from Sarmoli village in Munsiari; RakshaPatekar from Dehene village in Maharashtra, a rural tourism expert, and master trainer; SajnaShaji a drummer and travel guide from Mothakkara, Wayanad in Kerala; Pabitra Maya Khawas, home chef and entrepreneur from Chuikhim, north Bengal; SumitraBiswas from Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
The sessions are now available on the https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbzIbBmMvtvH7d6Zo_ZEHDA/ featured and also on all social media handles of Ministry of Tourism, Government of India.
- Two hundred new mandis were added to the e-NAM platform from 7 States
On 1 May 2020, 200 new mandis were added to the e-NAM platform from 7 States. The function was headed by the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Narendra Singh Tomar.
Centre aims to add 1,000 Mandis to the e-NAM platform for marketing of Agricultural produce. It is expected that the Prime minister's vision of using technology for the benefit of farmers will soon be realized.
Highlights:
e-NAM aims to reach the last mile farmer and transform the way they sell their Agri produce. e-NAM has gained more strength by reaching out to more farmers & traders of these new mandis. Already 585 mandis in 16 States and 2 Union Territories (UT) have been integrated and are working.
The newly added 200 markets that are integrated with the e-NAM platform are as follows: Andhra Pradesh (11 mandis), Gujarat (25 mandis), Odisha (16 mandis), Rajasthan (94 mandis), Tamil Nadu (27 mandis), Uttar Pradesh (25 mandis) & Karnataka (2 mandis).
With this, the total e-NAM mandis in the country are 785. This is the first milestone achieved in the path of integrating 415 new markets across the country.
It is for the first time that Karnataka State has been added to the list of e-NAM States.
- Narendra Singh Tomar launched The Saras Collection on GeM portal
The Union Minister for Rural Development and Panchayati Raj and Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar launched “The Saras Collection” on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) portal at Krishi Bhavan in New Delhi on 4 May 2020.
The Saras Collection:
It is a, unique initiative of GeM and the Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), Ministry of Rural Development.
The Saras Collection will showcase daily utility products made by rural self-help groups (SHGs). It aims to provide SHGs in rural areas with market access to Central and State Government buyers.
Under this initiative, the SHG sellers will be able to list their products in 5 product categories, namely handicrafts, handloom and textiles, office accessories, grocery and pantry, and personal care and hygiene. In Phase-1, 913 SHGs from 11 States have already registered as sellers and 442 products have been on-boarded.
GeM has developed an API based integration mechanism with the NRLM database. GeM will collaborate with State functionaries to address the capacity building and training needs of SHGs and build up their competencies required for order packaging, catalogue management, and logistics.
- Manufacturing sector activity in India hits record low in April amid lockdown
IHS Markit India stated that the Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI) of the manufacturing sector activity of the country has slipped into contraction mode, after remaining in the growth territory for 32 consecutive months.
Highlights:
The PMI fell to 27.4 in April, from 51.8 in March. It reflected the sharpest deterioration in business conditions across the sector since data collection began over 15 years ago.
The index above 50 means expansion and a score below that denotes contraction.
The unprecedented contraction in April occurred due to the national lockdown restrictions. Because of that the new business orders collapsed at a record pace and firms sharply reduced their staff numbers.
- Kashmiri saffron received GI tag
Kashmiri saffron received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag. The Certificate was granted to the Department of Agriculture Kashmir.
Kashmir Saffron:
Kashmir saffron has a unique identity and superior quality as compared to saffron grown across the world. It is famous and unique as it is grown at an altitude of 1,600 m.
The spice is derived from the crocus flower. The Kashmir Saffron is long, thick, and has a natural deep red colour. The deep red colour of the saffron is due to the high quantity of crocin. It has a rich flavour because of the safranal and the bitterness is due to the presence of picrocrocin.
The Saffron cultivated in Kashmir has a high aroma and is processed without adding any chemical. Saffron is used extensively in medicines and cooking in Kashmir with some claiming that saffron is an aphrodisiac.
- UP makes Arogya Setu app must for those in hotspot areas
Uttar Pradesh state government has made it compulsory to download the Arogya Setu app for those living in hotspot areas of the state. The State government has issued instructions regarding the opening of offices and resuming work in industrial areas.
Highlights:
As per the move, Arogya Setu App is a must for everyone in the Hotspot area. If anyone is facing any problem in download and use of the app then teams comprising members of the administration, Medical Services, and Police personal will help them.
Administrative and health department officials have been directed for contact mapping of every case in the hotspot area.
The government has strictly restricted gatherings of five or more persons at any point as part of the COVID-19 management.
- India ranks 3rd in scientific publication
The National Science and Technology Management Information (NSTMIS), Department of Science and Technology (DST), has conducted a survey on Research and Development (R & D) Statistics and Indicators 2019-20. As per the survey India ranks 3rd among countries in a scientific publication.
Parameters of the Survey:
The survey included more than 6800 S&T Institutions spread across varied sectors like central government, state governments, higher education, public sector industry, and private sector industry in the country. A response rate of more than 90% was achieved.
Report Highlights:
The report on R&D indicators for the nation is an extraordinarily important document for evidence-based policymaking and planning in higher education, R&D activities and support, intellectual property, and industrial competitiveness.
The report captured the R&D landscape of the country through various Input-Output S&T Indicators in the form of Tables and graphs.
It pertains to Investments in national R&D, R&D investments by Government and Private sector; R&D relationship with the economy (GDP), Enrolment of S&T personnel, Manpower engaged in R&D, Outrun of S&T personnel, papers published, patents and their international S&T comparisons.
As per the report, India spent 0.7% of its GDP on R&D in 2017-18, while the same among other developing BRICS countries were Brazil 1.3%, Russia 1.1%, China 2.1%, and South Africa 0.8%. In 2018, India was ranked 3rd, 5th, and 9th in scientific publication output as per the NSF, SCOPUS, and SCI database respectively.
During 2011-2016, India's growth rate of scientific publication as per the SCOPUS and SCI database was 8.4% and 6.4% as against the world average of 1.9% and 3.7%, respectively. The report has also highlighted that India's share in global research publication output has increased over the years as reflected in publication databases.
- PM attended virtual summit of Non-Aligned Movement
Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in a virtual summit of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) on 4 May. The summit aimed to enhance the coordination of the member states in their fight against the COVID-19 pandemic. The External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar also participated in the summit.
Highlights:
The summit is conducted under the Presidency of Azerbaijan, who is the president of the NAM till 2022. The summit is convened by President Ilham Aliyev.
The summit identified measures for enhanced coordination among NAM members in their common fight against COVID-19.
The online session concluded with a political declaration of the movement “uniting against COVID-19."
The summit-level meeting witnessed the participation from representatives of international organizations such as the United Nations Secretary-General and Director-General of WHO.
- PM paid tributes to the Army personnel who lost their lives in Handwara encounter
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to valiant soldiers and security personnel martyred in Handwara in Jammu & Kashmir. Five security personnel, including a Colonel, a Major and a sub-inspector, and two unidentified militants were killed in the anti-militancy operation in north Kashmir's Handwara area.
- Jal Shakti Ministry launched IDEAthon
On 2 May 2020, the National Mission for Clean Ganga operating (NMCG) under Ministry of Jal Shakti and National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA) launched "IDEAthon" titled "The future of River Management" to explore how the COVID-19 crisis can shape River Management strategies for the future. The move focuses on creating awareness about the ecological importance and economic potential of the rivers to help the cities.
IDEAthon:
IDEAthon had created a framework called River Management in a city's Urban river management plan.It examined how the social angle of rivers can be leveraged to address other crises.
An international webinar was to bring together close to 500 participants. The expert panelists were from different countries and international organizations.The IDEAthon sought to brainstorm the learnings from COVID-19 pandemic, the following lockdown, and its impact on river management.
It also aims to mainstream River Management in a city's Urban Planning framework. NMCG has developed a template for an Urban River Management Plan with the National Institute of Urban Affairs. Interactive discussion on various aspects of river management was held during the event.
- Centre constitutes 20 Central Public Health Teams for districts with highest number of COVID-19 cases
The government of India has constituted 20 Central Public Health Teams from the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. The move comes as per the guidance of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
10 Central Public Health Teams:
The teams have been constituted to support the States in the implementation of containment measures for COVID-19 in the affected areas within these districts/cities. The teams will assist the State Governments.
The 20 districts that are reporting the maximum number of COVID-19 are Mumbai, Maharashtra; Ahmedabad, Gujarat; Delhi (South East); Indore, Madhya Pradesh; Pune, Maharashtra; Jaipur, Rajasthan; Thane, Maharashtra; Surat, Gujarat; Chennai, Tamil Nadu; Hyderabad, Telangana; Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh; Jodhpur, Rajasthan; Delhi (Central); Agra, Uttar Pradesh; Kolkata, West Bengal; Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh; Vadodara, Gujarat; Guntur, Andhra Pradesh; Krishna, Andhra Pradesh; Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.
As of 4 May, India has 130 red zones, 284 orange zones, and 319 green zones. They will be opened up gradually as per the Home Ministry guidelines.
- BDL partners with IIT-Kanpur to manufacture ventilators for COVID-19 treatment
Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), a defence Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), has signed an MoU NOCCA Robotics, an incubated start-up of the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur for the large-scale manufacturing of ventilators.
Highlights:
The MoU will give a big boost to the development of affordable ventilators for COVID-19 treatment.
BDL partnered with IIT Kanpur's incubator Foundation for Innovation and Research in Science and Technology (FIRST) and NOCCA Robotics Private Limited (NRPL) to manufacture ventilators.
It aims to develop an affordable ventilator which will be able to scale up the production. The device will be in line with the Make in India initiative.
For the project, the team has received inputs from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Directorate General of Mines Safety (DGMS).
- Civil Aviation Ministry launches GARUD portal to fast-track approval to COVID-19 related drone operations
Civil Aviation Ministry and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) have launched the Government Authorisation for Relief Using Drones (GARUD) portal.
GARUD portal:
The portal aims to provide fast track conditional exemptions to government agencies for COVID-19 related drone operations.
The move will help the government entities in addressing the challenges posed by COVID-19 and will remain in force until further orders.
Civil Aviation Ministry also said that any violation of provisions will make the conditional exemption null and void and will lead to penal action.
- Delhi imposes 70 percent Special Corona Fee on Liquor
The Delhi state government imposed a 'Special Corona Fee' on liquor. As per the announcement, 70% of the maximum retail price (MRP) will be charged for all categories of liquor that will be sold in the city with effect from 5 May.
The fee was approved by Delhi's Lieutenant Governor Anil Baijal. Also, a notification was later issued by the Delhi government's finance department.
Highlights:
The move by the Delhi government aims to boost the government revenue but will also result in a steep rise in the prices of retail liquor bottles.
The lockdown since 25 March to contain COVID-19 cost the Delhi government around Rs.645 crore in revenue from the sale of alcohol.
The excise department prepared a full report on the exact revenue loss incurred by the ban on the sale of liquor for over 40 days.
So far, 3,403 active cases have been reported, out of which 1,431 people have recovered from COVID-19.
- Centre to introduce Agro MSME Policy to focus on entrepreneurship development
Centre is to introduce an Agro MSME Policy that will focus on entrepreneurship development in rural, tribal, agricultural, and forest areas for manufacturing products using local raw material.
The information was announced by the Union Minister for Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari.
Agro MSME Policy:
The move focuses on export enhancement and import substitution to replace foreign imports with domestic production.
It also focuses on innovation, entrepreneurship, science and technology, research skill and experiences to convert the knowledge into wealth.
The policy will also focus on further extension of the moratorium, payment of salaries to workers during lockdown from their ESI and Provident Fund, a helpline for MSMEs, strengthening access to finance, etc.
Also, the Ministry of MSME has signed anMoU with AYUSH Ministry to promote the AYUSH sector through various schemes of Ministry of MSMEs in the areas of training, skilling, handholding, and entrepreneurship development.
The MSME sector needs to be ensured by industries that necessary preventive measures are taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19. He emphasized on the usage of PPE (Masks, sanitizer, etc.) and advised to maintain social distancing norms during business operations.
- Centre completed integration of Cold Chain Projects
The Union Minister of Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal held a video conference with the promoters of the completed Integrated Cold Chain Projects on 4 May. The promoters of 38 cold chain projects participated in the Video Conference.
Highlights:
The projects are supported by the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) in Maharashtra.
The promoters shared the experience gained and the problems faced in completing the projects.
The promoters shared the challenges faced in running the cold chain projects during the lockdown period.
The conference emphasized the need to leverage the collective strength of the Integrated Cold Chain network to cope up with the COVID-19 crisis that has posed a serious challenge to the existing supply chain of food products.
They discussed issues such as piling stocks of frozen vegetables and processed dairy products not finding their traditional markets like restaurants, banquets, hotels, etc. amidst the lockdown and further, the difficulty in exporting these products.
The promoters shared that a higher number of working hours is required as businesses are operating with 1/3rd or half of labour Force. This has increased the cost of production rendering products less competitive.
They discussed following major issues including Raw material availability and its high cost; Impact of lockdown on operations; Labour and Logistics issues; High inventory costs; and Liquidity crisis as payments have to be made to farmers.
- PMJAK plays a vital role in COVID-19 Situation
The Union Minister of State (IC) for Shipping and Chemicals & Fertilisers Mansukh Mandaviya reported that the Jan Aushadi Kendras are playing a vital role in the COVID-19 situation.
Highlights:
Around 10 lakh persons per day are visiting 6000 Jan Aushadhi Kendras to source quality medicines at affordable prices. These Kendras are also selling HydroxyChloroquine (HQC).
Jan Aushadi Kendras are opened under the Scheme to fulfill the vision of the Prime Minister to make available quality generic medicine at affordable price.
So far, about 6000 Jan Aushadi Kendras have started operating across the country where at par quality medicines are sold at a cheaper price by 50% to 90% of Average Market Price.
Janaushadhi Pariyojana:
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana Kendra (PMBJP) is an initiative launched by the Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP), Government of India. It aims to provide quality medicines at an affordable price. The number of Kendras has grown to more than 6200, and 700 districts are covered under the scheme at present. The total sales in the financial year 2019-20 have crossed Rs.383 crore, which led to total savings of approximately Rs.2200 crore of common citizens as these medicines are cheaper by 50 to 90% of the average market price.
- Lt Gen Raj Shukla assumed command of ARTRAC
Lieutenant General Raj Shukla assumed command of the Army Training Command (ARTRAC) on 1 May 2020.
Lieutenant General Raj Shukla:
Lieutenant General Raj Shukla is a graduate of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Khadakwasla and the Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun. He was commissioned into the Regiment of Artillery in December 1982.
He has a career spanning over four decades and has seen extensive service in the field. He commanded a Medium Regiment in the Eastern and Desert Theatres, an Infantry Brigade in Counter Insurgency Operations, an Infantry Division along the Line of Control in the Valley, and a Corps along the Western Borders.
Lt Gen Raj Shukla is an alumni of the Defence Services Staff College Wellington, the College of Defence Management Secunderabad, and the National Defence College New Delhi.
He has served two tenures at the Military Operations Directorate and as the Director-General, Perspective Planning at Army HQ. He has also been Commandant of the Indian Army War College.
- PM Narendra Modi participated at the online Summit of NAM Contact Group
Prime Minister Narendra Modi participated in the online Summit of Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) Contact Group was held on 4 May 2020 to discuss the response to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic crisis.
The summit commemorated the International Day of Multilateralism and Diplomacy for Peace.
Highlight:
The theme of the online NAM Contact Group Summit was 'United against COVID-19.'
The summit was hosted by the current Chairman of NAM, President of the Republic of Azerbaijan HE IlhamAliyev.
The Summit aimed to promote international solidarity in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and to mobilize efforts of States and international organizations to address the pandemic.
Over 30 other Heads of State and Government and other leaders, including from member States in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Caribbean, and Europe participated in the event.
The Summit was addressed by the President of the UN General Assembly (UNGA) Prof Tijjani Muhammed Bande, UN Secretary-General Mr. Antonio Guterres, African Union (AU) Chairperson Musa Faki Mahamat, European Union (EU) High Representative, Josep Borrell, and Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO) Dr. Tedros Ghebreyesus.
The leaders also discussed the creation of a 'Task Force' to identify the needs and requirements of Member States through the establishment of a common database that reflects the basic medical, social, and humanitarian needs in the fight against COVID-19 pandemic.
- Karnataka announced Rs.1,610 crore package for farmers, construction workers, weavers, auto and taxi drivers
Karnataka Chief Minister B S Yediyurappa announced Rs.1,610 crore package for farmers, construction workers, weavers, auto and taxi drivers on 6 May.
The state govt. has also announced that all those who incurred losses due to lockdown will be compensated.
Highlights:
The flower growers in the state will get a compensation of Rs.25,000 per hectare.
Washermen, barbers, construction workers, auto and taxi drivers will get a compensation of Rs.5,000 each. The electricity fixed charges for MSMEs will be waived off for two months and a package will be announced soon to compensate fruit and vegetable growers.
The state also announced a new Naikar Samaan Yojana that will provide Rs.2,000 financial assistance to the weavers.
The state government is also making various efforts for the welfare of stranded migrants and labourers.
- Rajasthan begins Plasma therapy to treat COVID-19 patients
Rajasthan State Health Minister Raghu Sharma formally launched COVID-19 treatment with plasma therapy at the city's SMS Medical College through video conferencing on 6 May.
Highlights:
SMS Medical College has received permission from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to treat 20 critical patients with Plasma therapy.
The Plasma therapy trials were started in the state.
The State assured that it has provided world-class screening and treatment facilities for COVID-19 patients.
CT scan, pulmonary angiography, ultrasonography of the lung, and high-level blood tests are being done for COVID-19 patients at SMS Medical College.
- Progress of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package so far
Ministry of Finance stated that around 39 crore poor people received financial assistance of Rs.34,800 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP) as of 5 May 2020. The amount was transferred to the beneficiaries using the digital payment infrastructure.
Highlights:
PMGKP announced by Union Finance Minister NirmalaSitharaman on 26 March 2020 to protect poor people from the impact of the lockdown due to COVID-19.
The Government announced free food grains and cash payment to women and poor senior citizens and farmers under the scheme.
The swift implementation of the package is continuously monitored by Central and State governments.
Central/State governments ensure that the relief measures reach the needy swiftly and in line with the intent of the lockdown.
Fintech and digital technology have been employed for efficient transfer to the beneficiary.
Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) ensures that the amount is directly credited into the account of the beneficiary, eliminates leakage, and improves efficiency. It has also ensured credit to the beneficiary's account without the need for the beneficiary to physically go to the branch.
- CMIE data reports India’s unemployment rate climbed to 27.1 percent
Centre for Monitoring of Indian Economy (CMIE) data stated that the unemployment rate in India has climbed to a staggering 27.1% as of 3 May 2020.
It also stated that over 121.5 million Indian's were out of jobs in April due to the continuous nationwide lockdown to contain COVID-19.
Highlights:
The report stated that 91.3 million workers including daily wagers and those working with small traders were out of jobs in April followed by 18.2 million employment loss of entrepreneurs, and 17.8 million among the salaried class.
It showed that around 5.8 million farmers went back to work as farming activity picked up after 20 April due to a staggered easing of lockdown in parts of India.
The jobless rate increased to 27.1% as of 3 May.
The urban unemployment rate climbed almost 8% point in the above time period over the week ended 26 April, the rural unemployment jumped to 26.16%, up from 20.88%.
India's overall weekly unemployment rate increased from 6.74% on 15 March to 26.19% on 19 April. Unemployment decreased to 21.05% in late April.
India's economy has already slowed down due to persistent financial sector weaknesses. It also reported, post the lockdown, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, economic activity has caused massive job loss and wage loss.
- Himachal Pradesh to launch Nigah Scheme
Himachal Pradesh State Government is to launch the "Nigah" Scheme to properly sensitize and educate family members of people coming from other states so that social distancing is effectively maintained. The announcement was made by Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur.
Nigah Scheme:
Under the scheme, a team of ASHA workers, health workers, and Anganwadi workers would visit the family members of persons arriving from other states. The will educate them about the importance of social distancing so that they could be saved from any possible infection.
The state government also ordered to mark the people who have come from other states.
Also, the govt. stated that strict action would be taken against those jumping home quarantine as this would not only harm their family members but also society as a whole.
The persons entering the state have been asked to download AarogyaSetu App and must also be provided with Information Education Communication (IEC) material regarding the importance of social distancing.
- UP launched Ayush Kavach app to boost immunity through Ayurveda
Uttar Pradesh state government unveiled the Ayush Kavach app that will provide health-related tips and information about ayurvedic medicines amid the COVID-19 pandemic. The app was launched by the UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on 5 May.
AyushKavach app:
Ayush Kavach mobile app will help people access prescriptions to strengthen their resistance through the ancient mode of Yoga and Ayurveda of India.
Ayurveda and the ancient traditions of India. It is expected to boost immunity through Ayurveda which will help in fighting these types of viruses.
There was a need for such an app that could easily deliver information about Ayurveda and traditional medicines and prescriptions in simple language with ease among the masses.
The mobile app Ayush Kavach was developed by the Ayush Department of Uttar Pradesh in view of the COVID-19 health crisis.
- Scientists to culture novel coronavirus in human lung epithelial cell
Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB), Hyderabad has partnered with a Bengaluru-based company, Eyestem Research Private Limited, to take up research activities on COVID-19.
Highlights:
The collaboration aims to grow novel coronavirus in human cell lines, which will enable in vitro testing of potential drugs and vaccines against the COVID-19.
Eyestem's human lung epithelial cell culture system will be used as part of its Anti-COVID Screening (ACS) platform to understand the molecular and pathological characteristics of the novel coronavirus.
The research will overcome the issues faced to culture the virus outside the human host.
CSIR-CCMB is known for its cutting-edge research work on cellular and molecular biology. Eyestem Research Private Limited is a cell therapy start-up incubated at the Centre for Cellular and Molecular Platforms (C-CAMP), Bengaluru.
C-CAMP is an initiative of the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology.
Eyestem is working to democratize access to cell therapy and disease modeling platforms and bring their benefit to a large section of humanity.
- Indian Navy launched Operation SamudraSetu
Indian Navy launched Operation SamudraSetu, meaning Sea Bridge, as a part of a national effort to repatriate Indian citizens from overseas. Indian Naval Ships (INS) Jalashwa and Magar are presently en route to the port of Malè, the Republic of Maldives to commence evacuation operations from 8 May 2020 as part of Phase-1.
Operation SamudraSetu:
The operation aims to evacuate personnel who repatriate Indian citizens from overseas.
GoI is monitoring the situation with respect to the effect of COVID-19 pandemic on the citizens abroad. The Indian Navy has been directed to make suitable preparations for their evacuation by sea.
The Indian Mission in the Republic of Maldives is preparing a list of Indian nationals to be evacuated by Naval ships and will facilitate their embarkation after the requisite medical screening.
Under the operation, a total of 1000 persons are planned to be evacuated during the first trip, catering for COVID-related social distancing norms vis-a-vis the carrying capacity and medical facilities available onboard.
The ships are provisioned for the evacuation operation. The evacuated personnel will be provided the basic amenities and medical facilities during the sea-passage.
Stringent protocols have been stipulated due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The evacuated personnel will be disembarked at Kochi, Kerala. They will be entrusted to the care of State authorities.
This operation is done by the Ministries of Defence, External Affairs, Home Affairs, Health, and various other agencies of Central/State governments.
- 8 dead, 2,000 affected in LG Polymers gas leak in Vishakhapatnam, Vizag trains diverted
Eight persons died and 2000 fell ill in a gas leak from a private polymers company in Vishakhapatnam today (7th May, 2020) morning.
The leakage happened around 3am at LG Polymers industry at RR Venkatapuram near Naiduthota area close to Gopalapatnam.
The incident led to panic among locals in the 3km-radius area. Many people were seen lying unconscious on roads while some faced breathing difficulties. People also complained of rashes on their body and soar eyes.
Several hundreds of people complained of breathlessness, irritation in eyes and stomach pain following leakage of gas.
According to officials, accident occurred in styrene gas chamber during recommissioning of LG polymer unit at Gopalapatnam.
Styrene is a flammable liquid that is used to make polystyrene plastics, fiberglass, rubber, and latex.
- GoI begins evacuation exercise Vande Bharat Mission to bring Indians stranded abroad
The Government of India is to conduct one of the largest evacuation exercises named the Vande Bharat Mission with an aim to bring Indians stranded abroad due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Vande Bharat Mission:
Under the mission, the government will operate 64 flights from 7-13 May to bring home nearly 14,800 Indian nationals stranded abroad due to the coronavirus lockdown.
The 64 flights include 10 flights from the UAE, 2 from Qatar, 5 from Saudi Arabia, 5 from Singapore, 7 from the United Kingdom, 7 from the United States, 5 from the Philippines, 7 from Bangladesh, 2 from Bahrain, 7 from Malaysia, 5 from Kuwait and 2 flights from Oman.
Preparations for the operation have commenced and also urged the stranded individuals to stay in touch with the Indian embassies in their countries.
The lights will bring back people to Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Delhi, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Gujarat.
Under the mission, the maximum number of flights will bring back citizens from the Gulf countries.
Meanwhile, the Indian Navy has also sent 3 ships under Operation Samudra Setu to get back stranded citizens from Maldives and UAE.
- PM reviewed Visakhapatnam Gas Leak Incident
The incident of Styrene gas leakage occurred in a chemical plant LG Polymers industry in the early hours at 3 am in RR Venkatapuram village, Gopalapatnam Mandal in Visakhapatnam District, Andhra Pradesh on 7 May. Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting to take stock of the steps being taken in response to the Vishakhapatnam gas leak incident.
Highlights:
Styrene gas is toxic in nature. It may cause irritation to the skin, eyes, and causes respiratory problems and other medical conditions.
The gas leakage affected the surrounding villages namely Narava, B.C Colony, Bapuji Nagar, Kampalapalem, and Krishna Nagar. People who were exposed to the gas faced breathing difficulties, rashes on their bodies, and soar eyes.
At least 10 people died and over 1,000 fell sick because of the alleged gas leak in Andhra Pradesh.
The plant used raw material styrene which is highly flammable and releases poisonous gas when burnt.
LG Polymers industry:
The LG Polymers industry was founded in 1961 as Hindustan Polymers. The plant manufactures polystyrene and its co-polymers in Vizag. In 1978, it was merged with Mc Dowell& Company Limited of UB Group.
Previous Gas leak incidents in India:
In 1984, at least 3,787 died in the gas leak incident at the Union Carbide India Limited (UCIL) pesticide plant in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh.
In 2011, around 20 persons were hospitalized following a chlorine gas leak in an effluent treatment plant in Pimpri Chinchwad, Pune.
In 2014, 6 persons died and over 30 people fell ill when poisonous gas leaked from Bhilai Steel Plant in Durg, Chhattisgarh.
In 2018, 14 people were hospitalized after inhaling ammonia gas leaked from a plant in Ratnagiri, Mumbai.
In 2019, 21 workers were hospitalized in a chemical leak from a tank inside a plant at Nira-Nimbut near Pune.
- ICAR Institutes released advisories to Fisheries sector in 12 languages
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Department of A
griculture Research and Education (DARE), Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India, released Advisories to the Fisheries sector in 12 languages.
Highlights:
The advisories are aimed to put back the disrupted fishing activities from open-water, and aquaculture in both freshwater and brackish water systems, several associated activities like seed production, feed plant operation, supply and market chains, etc.
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) included ICAR Advisories as Voluntary Guidelines for the benefit of the fisheries sector across the globe.
ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), Barrackpore prepared advisories for the stakeholders involved in fishing activities in rivers, estuaries, reservoirs, and wetlands.
The advisories were popularized through print and electronic media, circulated to State Fisheries Departments, developmental agencies, NGOs and SHGs, and also through social media.
FAO, Rome has recommended these advisories prepared by ICAR-CIFT and ICAR-CIFRI as they included them as Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries under the Asia-Regional initiatives for the benefit of fisheries sector across the globe at its Webpage: http://www.fao.org/3/ca8959en/ca8959en.pdf.
- Ministry of Tourism launched Dekho Apna Desh logo design contest
The Ministry of Tourism launched the 'Dekho Apna Desh' logo design contest on the MyGov platform. The objective of this contest is to have a logo for the Dekho Apna Desh campaign coming out of the creative ideas of the citizens of the country.
Dekho Apna Desh:
Dekho Apna Desh is an initiative of the Ministry of Tourism which was launched by Union Minister for Tourism (IC) Prahlad Singh Patel at Konark, Odisha on 24 January 2020.
The initiative of the Ministry of Tourism is in line with the appeal of the Prime Minister who asked every citizen to visit at least 15 destinations by the year 2022.
The aim of the campaign is to promote domestic tourism in India which is intended to enhance tourist footfalls in places of tourist interest so as to help develop the local economy.
During the lockdown, the Ministry of Tourism launched a web series on the overall theme of 'Dekho Apna Desh' with the objective to create awareness about and promote various tourism destinations of India, including the lesser-known destinations and lesser-known facets of popular destinations.
Dekho Apna Desh Logo design Contest activity is live on My Gov, and the link is: https://www.mygov.in/task/dekho-apna-desh-logo-design-contest/
Also, the winner of the Dekho Apna Desh Logo contest will get 5 nights 6 days all expenses covered holiday package for 2 to any destination in India from their residence in India. The contest terms and conditions are available on MyGov.in
- IMD subtly includes PoK, Gilgit-Baltistan in its weather forecasts
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has started to include Jammu & Kashmir, Ladakh, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Muzaffarabad in its meteorological sub-division of Jammu & Kashmir. The daily region-wise forecasts are for the entire sub-division, and not for any specific areas within. The first such forecast for Gilgit was uploaded on 6 May.
Highlights:
The move by IMD reflects the changed status of Ladakh as a separate Union Territory (UT).
The shift can be perceived as subtle diplomacy in claiming India's rights over Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK).
India protest against Pakistan court's order:
The IMD's move comes just days after Pakistan's Supreme Court allowed that country's government to conduct elections in the Gilgit-Baltistan region. In response, India told Pakistan that it has no locus standi in Gilgit-Baltistan and asked Islamabad to vacate PoK, which is an integral part of India. It was clearly conveyed that the entire UT of J&K and Ladakh, including the areas of Gilgit and Baltistan, are an integral part of India by virtue of its fully legal and irrevocable accession.
- Aarogya Setu Interactive Voice Response System implemented
Aarogya Setu Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) the feature has been implemented in the Aarogya Setu mobile application. The new feature of the app aims to include the citizens with feature phones and landlines under the protection of Aarogya Setu. The service is available across the country.
Aarogya Setu IVRS:
Aarogya Setu IVRS is a toll-free service. The citizens are asked to give a missed call to the number 1921 and they will get a call back requesting for inputs regarding their health.
The questions asked will be aligned with the Aarogya Setu App, and based on the responses given, citizens will also get an SMS indicating their health status and also will get further alerts for their health moving forward.
So far, the service is implemented in 11 regional languages similar to the mobile application.
The input provided by the user or citizen will be made part of the Aarogya Setu database. The information will be processed to send alerts to the citizen on the action to be taken to ensure their safety.
Visit: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/. to get the authentic information.
Technical queries related to COVID-19 may be emailed at technicalquery.covid19@gov.in and other queries on ncov2019@gov.in and via tweets to @CovidIndiaSeva.
Also, call at the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare helpline no.: 11-23978046 or 1075 (Toll-free).
- Centre to set up farmers movement on integrated soil nutrient management based on Soil Health Card
Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare has announced the setting up of integrated soil nutrient management a farmers' movement. The announcement was announced by the Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers' Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar. During 2020-21, the major focus of the Soil Health Programme would be on a mass awareness programme for farmers in over 1 lakh villages covering all districts of the country.
Highlights:
The mission mode awareness of the Soil Health Programme to increase the use of bio and organic fertilizers and reducing chemical fertilizers strictly based on recommendations of Soil Health Card.
The Department of Agriculture, Cooperation, and Farmers' Welfare is to launch a comprehensive campaign on soil test based rational application of fertilizers. It also promotes organic farming including Bhartiya Prakritik Krishi Padhati (BPKP) for safe nutritious food in association with the Departments of Panchayat Raj, Rural Development and Drinking Water and Sanitation.
Under the SHC scheme, Soil Health Cards are provided to all farmers at an interval of 2 years.
Soil Health Card will provide two sets of fertilizer recommendations for 6 crops including recommendations of organic manures.
Farmers will be given recommendations for additional crops on demand. They can also print the card as their own from the SHC portal.
SHC portal has a farmers database of both the cycles. It is available in 21 languages for the benefit of the farmers.
- Ministry of AYUSH to formally launch studies on AYUSH interventions for COVID-19 situation
AYUSH Minister Shripad Yesso Naik and Health Minister Harsh Vardhan will jointly launch three AYUSH based studies related to COVID-19 situation at New Delhi on 7 May.
Highlights:
The initiatives are taken to address the COVID-19 pandemic problem in the country through clinical studies including prophylactic and add-on interventions, of AYUSH systems.
The AYUSH Ministry also studies the impacts of AYUSH based prophylactic interventions in a high-risk population and AYUSH advocacies and AYUSH measures for prevention of COVID 19.
Ministry of AYUSH has set up an Interdisciplinary Ayush R&D Task Force with a group of experts under the chairmanship of Dr. Bhushan Patvardhan, Vice-Chairman, University Grant Commission (UGC) to formulate and develop strategies for this initiative.
The studies include:
Clinical research studies on Ayurveda interventions as prophylaxis and as an add-on to standard care to COVID-19
Population-based interventional studies on the impact of AYUSH based prophylactic interventions
Ayush Sanjivani application-based study for impact assessment of acceptance and usage of AYUSH advisories in its role in the prevention of COVID-19.
- NCSTC-GUJCOST to host Webinar series to overcome COVID-19 by awareness and preparedness
The National Council for Science & Technology Communication (NCSTC), Department of Science & Technology, Government of India, in association with the Gujarat Council of Science & Technology (GUJCOST) has announced to organize a Citizen’s Science Webinar Series on "Science Communication in the Time of COVID-19." The webinar has been scheduled to be held from 10-16 May 2020 everyday between 10-11 am. The webinar would be accessible online through the internet.
Science Communication in the Time of COVID-19:
The webinar aims to address tackling the COVID-19 pandemic by applying various methods and means.
It will develop awareness and preparedness to deal with and address the current health crisis posed by COVID-19 to help overcome the situation.
The webinar will facilitate the necessary actions and preparedness of the society to address the challenge, such as strategies to reach out to society with the necessary information by involving various stakeholders, including academicians, students, media and volunteers, and so on.
It also aims to promote at the community-level for the usage of authentic scientific and health information and facilitate crisis management.
- Union Minister Nitin Gadkari sets road construction target for next two years at Rs.15 lakh crore
Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has announced its target to construct roads worth Rs.15 lakh crore in the next two years.
The announcement was made by the Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways and MSMEs Nitin Gadkari. The Ministry is working overtime to clear all arbitration cases with concessionaires.
Highlights:
It will focus on enhancing liquidity in the business. The industry also focuses more on innovation, technology, and research skill to become competitive in the global market.
The Ministry has announced that it is working overtime to clear all arbitration cases with concessionaires.
The Centre also assured all possible help at the appropriate level in the govt and other departments.
The Ministry is to finalize the auto scrapping policy quickly and will go a long way in cost reduction.
- Coir Board signed MoU with IIT-Madras for setting up Centre of Excellence for coir applications
Coir Board signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology- Madras (IIT-Madras) on 7th May. The aim was to establish a Centre of Excellence (CoE) for the application of Coir exclusively or in combination with other natural fibres.
Highlights:
Under the MoU, Coir Geo-Textiles (CGT) can be successfully used to prevent soil erosion in slopes/embankments, river embankments, mine slope dumps stabilization, etc. CGT can be used in the low volume rural roads as a re-enforcement material.
CoE will extend the research work, which is done so far, in the coir sector with the support of IIT-Madras.
IIT-Madras will provide support to the development of relevant technology and evolve standards for production & processing through specific projects and monitor research projects and mentor of Coir Board’s research institutes/laboratories.
CoE will also assist in generating the Intellectual Property Rights and technology transfer.
Coir Board will provide financial assistance of Rs.5 crores initially for a period of two years for the establishment and running of the Centre of Excellence.
So far, 27 areas of R&D needs of the Coir industry have been identified, to be taken up by this Centre of Excellence, in addition to 10 in-house projects of IIT-M, in machinery development and road projects.
- Smart City Nashik uses several creative initiatives to fight coronavirus
Smart City Nashik takes several measures and initiatives to fight COVID-19. The measures taken by the Nashik Municipal Corporation (NMC) at the city level include:
Cleanliness/ Sanitization of Public Places:
Spraying of Sodium Hypochlorite by means of 8 Tractors and 13 Pumps on an area of 36 sq.km at various NMC Offices, Quarantine Facilities, and across the City. Spraying of pesticides was done by 287 Malaria fighting workers on across 37.5 Sq. Meter & 109 Km of the area across the city respectively.
Separate vehicles for Waste collection & Disposal from Quarantined households:
The collection of door-to-door waste and disposal from Home Quarantined households is undertaken by Corporation’s sanitation workers separately.
Provision of special PPE for sanitation workers:
The NMC provided the provision of safety equipment such as Hand Gloves, Face Masks, Hand Sanitizers, and another PPE that has been made to 748 Medical officials & 1500 Sanitation Workers.
Provision of Facility of Institutional Quarantine wards:
Planning & Provision of 14 Institutional quarantine wards has been done across the city for the COVID-19 suspects. A total of 72 beds have been utilized to date at Institutional quarantine wards.
Smartphone App MahaKavach:
The MahaKavach is a real-time digital contact tracing mobile application. It enables citizens to contribute and assist the health authorities in contact tracing, geo-fencing, and tracking of quarantined COVID-19 patients. This app is to be used by Individuals as directed by their doctor or medical worker. The app also encourages to update the quarantine status for greater adherence.
IVR based 24*7 Helpdesk:
NMC has initiated 24*7 Helpdesk System for Inbound calls & pre-recorded, outbound text and voice messages to citizens to get information about the COVID-19.
Body Sanitizing Machine:
NMC has also established a Body Sanitizing Machine at Nashik Municipal Corporation Head office, Divisional Offices & Hospitals to sanitize people.
Farmers Group & NGO Help:
42 Farmers group in 82 different locations across the city, provides Fruit & Vegetables to Citizens. Also, Sahyadri Farmers Producer Company, Green Fields Services, and DrakshVigyanMandal provided Home delivery of Fruits and Vegetable baskets to citizens. NGO's are also helping NMC to provide Medical & Food supplies to needy citizens.
- UP passed an ordinance to suspend most labour laws for 3 years
Uttar Pradesh State government passed an ordinance 'Uttar Pradesh Temporary Exemption from Certain Labour Laws Ordinance, 2020' to suspend labour laws for the next three years.
The move is aimed to boost industrial investment and employ the large number of migrant workers that have come back to their native villages in the state. The Ordinance has been sent to Governor Anandiben Patel for assent.
Highlights:
The purpose of the ordinance aims to encourage industries to freely employ the large number of migrant workers that have come back. If industries have to go through the regular process of employing then they will be hesitant.
It provides certain safeguards regarding minimum wages, health, and safety of the workers. Also, it stated that strict action will be taken if anyone is found misusing the ordinance.
The ordinance will apply to all factories and manufacturing facilities and fresh investments.
The state cabinet approved this ordinance in order to revive economic activities in the state that have been hit hard due to the coronavirus-mandated lockdown.
It will encourage new investments and set up the new industrial infrastructure and the benefit of existing industries and factories.
The state has received close to 7 lakh migrant workers from across the country and many more lakhs are expected to arrive in the state.
- Indian Navys PPE clears certification by INMAS
Indian Navy recently designed and produced Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). The PPE was tested and approved by the Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences (INMAS), Delhi which is a DRDO organization tasked with the testing and certification of PPE. It is certified to be mass-produced and used in clinical COVID-19 situations.
Highlights:
The PPE was passed with 6/6 Synthetic blood penetration resistance test pressure. GoI mandated a minimum 3/6 and above level as per ISO 16603 standard and is thus certified to be mass-produced and used in clinical COVID-19 situations.
The outstanding features of the PPE are simple, innovative, and cost-effective design. It can be manufactured by basic gown manufacturing facilities.
The PPE is noteworthy for the innovative choice of fabric used, which gives the PPE its breathability and penetration resistance rendering it both comfortable and safe for the user.
The cost for the approved PPE is significantly lower than those commercially available.
- Union Minister Harsh Vardhan launched AYUSH Sanjivani App
Dr. Harsh Vardhan, Union Health & Family Welfare Minister launched the mobile application 'AYUSH Sanjivani' App and two AYUSH based studies related to COVID-19 situation.
The app was developed by the Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) and Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MEITY).
AYUSH Sanjivani App:
The AYUSH Sanjivani mobile app will help to generate data on acceptance and usage of AYUSH advocacies and measures among the population and its impact on the prevention of COVID-19.
It is expected to reach out to a target of 50 lakh people.
The COVID-19 management has provided a potent platform for the alliance between MoHFW, MoAYUSH, and technology organizations such as CSIR, ICMR, and UGC to not only develop AYUSH interventions and solutions but also help in promoting AYUSH knowledge for the larger good of the global community.
These organizations are partnering with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) for this regard.
ICMR and DCGI will support and guide AYUSH in propagating the wholesomeness and holistic health benefits of the age-old traditional medicinal knowledge of Ayurveda.
- Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated Dharchula-Lipulekh road link
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the road link from Dharchula (Uttarakhand) to Lipulekh (China Border) on 8 May. He flagged off a convoy of vehicles from Pithoragarh to Gunji through video conferencing. The road link was constructed by Border Roads Organisation (BRO) engineers and personnel.
Highlights:
The crucial Dharchula-Lipulekh road link is expected to increase the local trade and economic growth in the region. It will boost the operationalization of this roadway.
Dharchula-Lipulekh is an 80 km road. The altitude rises from 6,000 to 17,060 feet.
The road link will make the Kailash-Manasarovar pilgrimage easy. Currently, the travel to Kailash-Mansarovar takes around two to three weeks through Sikkim or Nepal routes. The arduous trek will now be entailed approximately 20% of land journeys on Indian roads and 80% of land journeys in China.
Published date : 22 May 2020 12:46PM
More Articles
