Press Information Bureau Th e Pr ess In f or m at ion Bu r eau (PIB) is t h e n odal agen cy of t h e Gover n m en t of In dia t o dissem in at e in f or m at ion t o t h e pr in t an d elect r on ic m edia on gover n m en t policies, pr ogr am m es, in it iat ives an d ach ievem en t s.
August Edition
Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August POLITY
Constitutional safeguards under Assam accord The details of Clause 6 and 7 of the Assam Accord are as under:•
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Clause 6: “Constitutional, legislative and administrative safeguards, as may be appropriate, shall be provided to protect, preserve and promote the cultural, social, linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people.” Clause 7: “The Government take this opportunity to renew their commitment for the speedy all round economic development of Assam as to improve the standard of living of the people. Special emphasis will be placed on education and science & technology through establishment of national institutions.” Government of Assam has established a department which is named ‘Implementation of Assam Accord Department.’ to implement the above Clauses.
Delegation of Nagaland GB Federation calls on PM • •
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The Nagaland GB Federation is a body of GB- Gaon Burahs (village chieftains) of all the Naga village station Central Government’s Projects The Central Schemes concerning various Ministries are administered by the respective Ministry whereas MPLAD Scheme is being administered by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. Implementation of the Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) in the field is undertaken by the District Authorities in accordance with the State Government’s technical, administrative and financial rules and as per the provisions of Guidelines on MPLADS. A guideline on MPLADS provides that all recommended eligible works should be sanctioned within 75 days from the date of receipt of the recommendation, after completing all formalities. The District Authority shall, however, inform MPs regarding rejection, if any, within 45 days from the date of receipt of recommendations, with reasons thereof. The District Authority is required to review, every month and in any case at least once in every quarter, MPLADS works implementation with the Implementing Agencies. The District Authority should involve the MPs in the inspections of projects to the extent feasible. Inter-State River Water Sharing Disputes
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On the complaint made by the State Governments, the Central Government has, so far, set up eight tribunals to settle water disputes among the States under the Inter-State River Water Disputes (ISRWD) Act, 1956. The ISRWD Act, 1956 has been last amended in 2002 whereby adjudication of the water disputes by tribunals has been made time bound after consultation with all State Governments. Further, Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation adopted a revised National Water Policy (NWP) in 2012. As per Clause 12.2 of the Policy, a permanent Water Disputes Tribunal at the Centre should be established to resolve the disputes expeditiously in an equitable manner. In this regard, the Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Inter-State River Water Dispute (Amendment) Bill, 2017 has been introduced in Lok Sabha on March 14, 2017 to amend the existing ISRWD Act, 1956.
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Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) Govt. of India has taken up the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) with the financial assistance of the World Bank for the repair and rehabilitation of initially about 225 dam projects across the seven states of India, namely Jharkhand (DVC), Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Uttarakhand (UJVNL). The objectives of DRIP are to improve the safety and operational performance of selected existing dams and associated appurtenances in a sustainable manner, and to strengthen the dam safety institutional setup of participating States / Implementing Agencies.
Medium-term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) Statement laid in Parliament • • •
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MTEF projections provide a focus to the spending Departments and also give a general direction to the Fiscal Management. MTEF projections provide a focus to the spending Departments and also give a general direction to the Fiscal Management. Section 3 of the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act, 2003 requires the Government to place three Statements of Fiscal Policy viz., the Medium-term Fiscal Policy Statement, the Fiscal Policy Strategy Statement and the Macroeconomic Framework Statement in both the Houses of Parliament along with Annual Financial Statement and Demands for Grants. This Section was amended to require the Government to lay a Fourth Statement viz., the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) Statement in both the Houses of Parliament, immediately following the Session of the Parliament in which the Budget has been presented.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August SOCIAL ISSUES/DEVELOPMENTS
National Education Policy Committee to draft National Education Policy, 2017 •
The committee has been constituted by Human Resource Development Ministry, Government of India under the Chairmanship of Dr K. Kasturirangan comprising eminent experts from across the Country to draft National Education Policy, 2017.
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An autonomous Research Council, namely, Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy (CCRYN) is working under the Ministry of AYUSH as the apex body for Research and Education in the field of Yoga and Naturopathy. The CCRYN has set up a Central Research Institute at Rohini, Delhi The Government has approved establishment of Post Graduate Institutes for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy at Nagmangla (Karnataka) and Jhajjar (Haryana) Trends in Maternal Mortality: 1990 to 2015
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As per the UN Inter–Agency estimates in the publication “Trends in Maternal Mortality: 1990 to 2015", It is estimated that India accounts for 15% of the total global maternal deaths. As per SRS 2001-03 major reasons of maternal deaths are Haemorrhage (38%)Sepsis (11%), Abortion (8%),Hypertensive disorders (5%),obstructed labour (5%) and other causes (34%) including anaemia and various other causes.
To address the issue of poor health, anaemia and deficient medical facilities, Government of India has taken several steps: • •
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Operationalization of Sub-Centers, Primary Health Centers, Community Health Centers and District Hospitals for providing 24x7 basic and comprehensive obstetric care. To overcome the shortage of maternity beds so that quality care can be given to pregnant women and neonates, Mother and Child Health wings (MCH wings) have been sanctioned at high case load delivery points, based on the proposal received from the States and UTs in their annual Project Implementation Plans (PIPs). Operationalization of Safe Abortion Services and Reproductive Tract Infections and Sexually Transmitted Infections (RTI/STI) at health facilities with a focus on “Delivery Points”. Capacity building of health care providers in basic and comprehensive obstetric care with a strategic initiative “Dakshata” to enable service providers in providing high quality services during childbirth at the institutions. Augmenting the availability of skilled manpower at health facilities for providing basic comprehensive & emergency obstetric care, different skill-based trainings such as Skilled Birth Attendance for Auxiliary Nurse Midwives/Staff Nurses/Lady Health Visitors; training of MBBS Doctors in Life Saving Anaesthetic Skills, Emergency Obstetric Care including Caesarean Section. Universal screening of pregnant women for anaemia is a part of ante-natal care and all pregnant women are to be provided iron and folic acid tablets during their ante-natal and post natal visits.After the first trimester of pregnancy, every pregnant woman during ANC is to be given iron and folic acid (IFA) tablets for six months, and six months post-partum. STEPS TAKEN TO CHECK THE INCREASE IN POPULATION
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Mission Parivar Vikas has been launched to increase access to contraceptives and Family Planning services in 146 high fertility districts. Introduction of New Contraceptive Choices: The current basket of choice has been expanded to include the new contraceptives viz. Injectable contraceptive, Centchroman and Progesterone Only Pills (POP). Redesigned Contraceptive Packaging: The packaging for Condoms, Oral Contraceptive Pills (OCPs) and Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs) has now been improved and redesigned. New Family Planning Media Campaign has been launched to generate demand for contraceptives. Family Planning logistics management information system has been developed to track Family Planning commodities. Enhanced Compensation Scheme for Sterilization: The sterilization compensation scheme has been enhanced in 11 high focus states (8 Empowered Action Group (EAG), Assam, Gujarat, Haryana) Post Abortion Family Planning Services have been initiated. A Scheme for ensuring drop back services to sterilization clients has been initiated. A Scheme for Home delivery of contraceptives by ASHAs to provide contraceptives at the doorstep of beneficiaries is in operation. A Scheme to ensure spacing of births by ASHAs is in operation. World Population Day& fortnight as well as Vasectomy Fortnight is observed every year to boost Family Planning efforts all over the country. Post-partum Family Planning is being focused with special emphasis on Post-partum IUCD services. Quality Assurance Committees have been established in all state and districts for ensuring quality of care in Family Planning. Male participation is being emphasized upon. Private/ NGO facilities have been accredited to increase the provider base for family planning services under PPP
As a result the Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has declined to 2.2 (NFHS IV) and the Decadal growth rate has declined to 17.64 % as per Census 2011. Intensified Mission Indradhanush Background: • • • •
Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) of India prevents mortality and morbidity in children and pregnant women against 12 vaccine preventable diseases. In the past it has been seen that the increase in immunization coverage had slowed down and it increased at the rate of 1% per year between 2009 and 2013. To accelerate this coverage Mission Indradhanush was envisaged and implemented since 2015 to rapidly increase the full immunization coverage to 90%. Four phases of Mission Indradhanush have been completed in 528 districts across the country. More than 2.47 crore children and around 67 lakh pregnant women have been vaccinated under Mission Indradhanush so far.
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With the aim to accelerating the full immunization coverage and provide greater focus on urban areas and other pockets of low immunization coverage, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has drawn up an aggressive action plan to achieve the target by 2018. Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
According to the plan, States will conduct Intensified Mission Indradhanush drives for 7 working days from 7th day of every month starting from 7th October 2017 for four consecutive months excluding Sundays, holidays and Routine Immunization days. Under Intensified Mission Indradhanush, greater focus will be given on urban areas which were one of the gaps of Mission Indradhanush. This will be done through mapping of all underserved population in urban areas and need-based deployment of ANMs for providing vaccination services in these areas. Mobility support to field staff for deployment to such areas in urban as well as rural areas will be provided. A distinctive feature of Intensified Mission Indradhanush is that greater focus is being given on convergence with other ministries/departments especially women and child development, Panchayati raj, urban development, youth affairs, NCC etc. The convergence of ground level workers of various departments like ASHA, ANMs, Anganwadi workers, Zila preraks under NULM, self-help groups will be crucial for successful implementation of Intensified Mission Indradhanush.
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Mission XI Million is a joint programme of Ministry of State (I/C) for Youth Affairs and Sports and All India Football Federation (AIFF) and Federation International de Football Association (FIFA) to popularise football across the country. The programme targets to reach 11 Million boys and girls across the country for promotion of football by 30th September 2017 Government of India has allocated around Rs 12.55 crores towards the said programme and an equal amount will be spent by AIFF/ FIFA. Socio-Economic Challenges in North-Eastern Region
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The Government has assessed the challenges being faced by the North Eastern Region (NER) through various studies and reports. Shukla Commission Report; Usha Thorat Committee Report on Financial Sector Plan for North Eastern Region; Report of the Task Force on Connectivity and Promotion of Trade and Investment in NE States; Report on Poverty Eradication in NER; District Infrastructure Index for NER prepared by Ministry of DoNER; Human Development Report of NE States The assessment broadly identified various measures to bridge the infrastructural gaps and remove the backlog in basic minimum services in North Eastern States that include connecting North-East with rest of India and world through rail, road, water and air connectivity, opening new trade and business opportunities by improving the banking sector and giving incentive to Industry sector etc. Government has taken concerted efforts for development of the North-Eastern Region o All non-exempt Central Ministries/Departments are required to spend 10% of their Gross Budgetary Support in the North – Eastern Region not only through their ongoing schemes, but also through dedicated schemes for the North-Eastern Region. o Special Accelerated Road Development Programme for North East (SARDP-NE); Comprehensive Telecom Development Plan; Broad Gauging & Capital Connectivity Rail Projects; World Bank Assisted Power Transmission & Distribution Projects; Scheme for Inter-State Neglected Roads are some of the special projects for North East. o The Ministry of DoNER, through its schemes of Non-Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR)-State & Central, North Eastern Road Sector Development Scheme (NERSDS), North Eastern Regional Livelihood Project (NERLP-EAP), North Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Eastern Region Community Resource Management Project (NERCORMP), Social and Infrastructure Development Fund (SIDF) Scheme etc. along with schemes of North Eastern Council has taken steps to bridge the social and physical infrastructure gaps in North Eastern Region.
Trade Related Entrepreneurship Development Assistance Scheme (TREAD) women entrepreneurship programme
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Trade Related Entrepreneurship Development Assistance Scheme (TREAD) envisages economic empowerment of women to encourage the non-farming activities taken up by women like Tailoring, Handicrafts, Embroidery, Toy making, Readymade garments, Candle making, Agarbatti making, paper cup and plate making, Masala powder making, Saree weaving, Coir mat making, Pickles making, Readymade garments, basketry and brooms making, Jute bag making etc. The focus of the scheme is to promote self-employment and income generation activities for women mostly from SHG groups in non-farm sector.
MDWS is crowd sourcing innovative ideas on Rural Sanitation • The Ministry of Drinking water and Sanitation, MDWS is organizing Swachhathon 1.0- the Swachh Bharat Hackathon, to crowd source solutions for the pressing issues pertaining to Sanitation.
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MAA Programme-Breastfeeding Week to promote breastfeeding Breastfeeding Week is observed in the first week of August to focus attention on the important aspect of promotion and support of breastfeeding. The theme of this year’s breastfeeding week is ‘Sustaining Breastfeeding’. To intensify the efforts further for promotion of breastfeeding, the Health Ministry has initiated a nationwide programme called “MAA-Mother’s Absolute Affection'’ to bring undiluted focus on promotion of breastfeeding and provision of services towards supporting breastfeeding, along with ongoing efforts of routine health systems. The key components of the MAA programme are awareness generation, promotion of breastfeeding & inter personal counselling at community level, skilled support for breastfeeding at delivery points and monitoring and Award/ recognition of health facility. Under this programme, ASHA has been incentivized for reaching out to pregnant and lactating mothers and provide information on benefits and techniques of successful breastfeeding during interpersonal communication. Breastfeeding within an hour of birth could prevent 20% of the newborn deaths. Infants who are not breastfed are 15 times more likely to die from pneumonia and 11 times more likely to die from diarrhoea than children who are exclusively breastfed, which are two leading causes of death in children under-five years of age. In addition, children who were not breastfed are at increased risk for diabetes, obesity, allergies, asthma, childhood leukaemia, sudden infant death syndrome etc. Apart from mortality and morbidity benefits, breastfeeding also has tremendous impact on improved IQ. Programmes for Quality of education at different levels
Higher Education •
There is not a single Indian educational institution in the top 20 world class institutions, as per various world rankings. To increase investments in the infrastructure of higher Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
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educational institutions, the Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) has been set up with an initial capital base of Rs. 300 crores. The HEFA has been incorporated as a Section 8 Company under the Company Act, 2013 and would mobilize debt/Bond funds from the market to finance improvement in infrastructure and research facilities in the higher educational institutions. The loans would be serviced through the internal accruals of the institutions.
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Under the Centrally Sponsored Schemes of Sarva Shiskha Abhiyan (SSA) and Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), the State Governments and UT Administrations are supported on several interventions to improve teaching standards like o regular in-service teachers’ training, o induction training for newly recruited teachers, o recruitment of additional teachers for improving pupil-teacher ratio, o academic support for teachers through block and cluster resource centres, o Maths and Science kits, Lab equipment, o special teaching for learning enhancement, o ICT facilities in schools, introduction of vocational education component at the secondary level. ‘Unnati’ project for improvement in English language skills. The Central Government, supports States and UTs on early grade reading, writing & comprehension, and early Mathematics programmes through a sub-programme of SSA namely ‘Padhe Bharat Badhe Bharat’ (PBBB) in classes I and II. Rashtriya Aavishkar Abhiyan (RAA) programme as a subcomponent of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan and Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA), to motivate and engage children of the age group from 6-18 years in Science, Mathematics and Technology through observation, experimentation, inference drawing, model building, etc. both through inside and outside classroom activities.
Child marriages show a declining trend • As per census 2011, the percentage of child marriage in 2011 is 31.6% which was 52 % in 2001 which shows a decreasing trend. • As per National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-4(2015-16), the percentage of Women age 1519 years who were already mothers or pregnant is 6.3% which was 16% in National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-3(2005-06). • The Government of India has enacted the Prohibition of Child Marriage Act, 2006 in order to prohibit child marriages rather than only restraining them.
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Integrated Child Development Services [ICDS] Scheme The Scheme provides a package of six services viz. supplementary nutrition, immunization, referral services, health check-up, pre-school non-formal education and health and nutrition education. The key features of Strengthened and Restructured ICDS include addressing the gaps and challenges with o special focus on children under 3 years and Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers o strengthening and repackaging of services including , care and nutrition counselling services and care of severely underweight children Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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a provision for an additional Anganwadi Worker cum Nutrition Counsellor for focus on children under 3 years of age and to improve the family contact, care and nutrition counselling for Pregnant and Lactating Mothers in the selected 200 high-burden districts across the country, besides having provision of link worker, 5% Crèche-cumAnganwadi centre forging strong institutional and programmatic convergence particularly, at the district, block and village levels models providing flexibility at local levels for community participation Provision for construction and improvement of buildings of Anganwadi centres, put ICDS in a mission mode etc. and revision of financial norms etc. Schemes for equality and security of women
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Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) Scheme • It was launched in January, 2015 to address the declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR) and related issues of women empowerment over a life-cycle continuum. • It is a tri-ministerial effort of Ministries of Women and Child Development, Health & Family Welfare and Human Resource Development. • It endeavours to change mindsets towards girls through impactful films and TVCs on various issues like gender awareness, sex selection, equal opportunities etc. • In synchronisation with International Women’s Day, the Ministry undertook a dedicated campaign (#WeAreEqual) with the objective to raise the consciousness of society towards women so that she can be valued, respected and recognised as equal. Gender Champions Scheme Ministry of Women and Child Development (MWCD), in collaboration with the Ministry of Human Resource Development, have envisaged Gender Champions as responsible leaders who will facilitate an enabling environment within their schools/colleges/academic institutions where girls are treated with dignity and respect. Gender Champions aim to make young boys and girls gender sensitive and create positive social norms which value the rights of women and girls.
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The Gender Budgeting Scheme
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Under the Scheme inter alia, the Ministry undertakes many programmes as well as provides financial support to Central/ State Government agencies in order to strengthen the process of gender budgeting. The training programmes are focused on increasing awareness about the need and importance of Gender Responsive Budgeting. Gender Budgeting undertakes Training programmes on GB with the collaboration of WCD Department of State Governments, National Level Training Institutions, Administrative Training Institutes & State Institute of Rural Developments.
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One Stop Centres (OSCs)
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The Ministry of Women & Child Development has set up 151 Centres till date under the new scheme of One Stop Centres (OSCs) for women affected by violence. Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
The purpose of these One Stop Centres is to help those women who have no access to either police or medical facilities or are not able to visit a police station in times of distress. Each centre has a psychologist, a doctor, a nurse, a lawyer, police and facility for 8 beds which can be expanded. The WCD Ministry is trying to get 600 OSCs for setting up across the country.
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National Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE) Policy The salient features of the National Early Childhood Care & Education (ECCE) Policy are: • • • • • • •
Access with equity and inclusion in programmes and interventions across service providers; Improving quality, Strengthening Capacity, Monitoring and Supervision; Research and Documentation; Advocacy and awareness generation; Convergence and Coordination among policies and programmes; Institutional and Implementation Arrangements; Partnerships, Periodic Review and Increased investment towards ECCE.
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Facilitate comprehensive childcare supports, infrastructure and services aimed at holistic well-being of children and responsive to their developmental needs along the continuum of care from conception to age of six years. Universalise and reinforce ECCE and ensure adaptive strategies for inclusion of all children with specific attention to vulnerable children. Engage capable human resources and build their capacity to enhance and develop quality services for children and their families. Set out the quality standards and curriculum framework for ECCE provisions and ensure their application and practice through advocacy and enforcement through appropriate institutional arrangements. Raise awareness and create common understanding about the significance of ECCE and promote strong partnerships with communities and families in order to improve the quality of life of young children through institutional and programmatic means and appropriate use of technology as required. Recognise diversity of contexts, develop and promote culturally appropriate strategies and materials and work within the framework of decentralized governance using participating and locally responsive approaches. Shortage of Funds in Health Sector
As per Economic Survey 2016-17 brought out by Ministry of Finance, expenditure by Government (Central and State Governments combined) on health as percentage of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) for last three years is as under: (i) (ii) (iii)
2014-15 - 1.1% 2015-16 - 1.3% (RE) 2016-17 - 1.4 % (BE)
The National Health Policy 2017 proposes raising public health expenditure to 2.5% of the GDP in a time bound manner by 2025. Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Primary Healthcare Facilities and National Health Policy 2017 • The Government has approved National Health Policy, 2017 with goal of attainment of the highest possible level of health and well-being for all, through a preventive and promotive health care orientation in all developmental policies, and universal access to good quality health care services without anyone having to face financial hardship as a consequence. • The National Health Policy 2017 envisages that for achieving the objective of having fully functional primary healthcare facilities especially in urban areas to reach under-serviced populations, the Government would collaborate with the private sector for operationalizing such health and wellness centres to provide a larger package of comprehensive primary health care across the country. • Partnerships could be in areas of diagnostics services, ambulance services, safe blood services, rehabilitative services, palliative services, mental healthcare, telemedicine services etc. Steps taken by the government to combat the infant mortality rates • Promotion of Institutional deliveries through cash incentive under Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) and Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK) which entitles all pregnant women delivering in public health institutions to absolutely free ante-natal check-ups, delivery including Caesarean section, post-natal care and treatment of sick infants till one year of age. • Strengthening of delivery points for providing comprehensive and quality Reproductive, Maternal, New-born, Child and Adolescent Health (RMNCH+A) Services, ensuring essential new-born care at all delivery points, establishment of Special New-born Care Units (SNCU), New-born Stabilization Units (NBSU) and Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) units for care of sick and small babies. Home Based New-born Care (HBNC) is being provided by ASHAs to improve child rearing practices. • India Newborn Action Plan (INAP) was launched in 2014 to make concerted efforts towards attainment of the goals of “Single Digit Neonatal Mortality Rate” and “Single Digit Stillbirth Rate”, by 2030. • Early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding for first six months and appropriate Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices are promoted in convergence with Ministry of Women and Child Development. • Village Health and Nutrition Days (VHNDs) are observed for provision of maternal and child health services and creating awareness on maternal and child care including health and nutrition education. • Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched MAA-Mothers’ Absolute Affection programme in August 2016 for improving breastfeeding practices (Initial Breastfeeding within one hour, Exclusive Breastfeeding up to six months and complementary Breastfeeding up to two years) through mass media and capacity building of health care providers in health facilities as well as in communities. • Universal Immunization Programme (UIP) is being supported to provide vaccination to children against many life threatening diseases such as Tuberculosis, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Polio, Tetanus, Hepatitis B and Measles. • Name based tracking of mothers and children till two years of age (Mother and Child Tracking System) is done to ensure complete antenatal, intranatal, postnatal care and complete immunization as per schedule. • Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakaram (RBSK) for health screening, early detection of birth defects, diseases, deficiencies, development delays including disability and early intervention Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
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services has been Operationalized to provide comprehensive care to all the children in the age group of 0-18 years in the community. Capacity building of health care providers: Various trainings are being conducted under National Health Mission (NHM) to build and upgrade the skills of health care providers in basic and comprehensive obstetric care of mother during pregnancy, delivery and essential newborn care. Low performing districts have been identified as High Priority Districts (HPDs) which entitles them to receive high per capita funding, relaxed norms, enhanced monitoring and focused supportive supervisions and encouragement to adopt innovative approaches to address their peculiar health challenges. Test and Treat Policy for HIV Patients The Government has launched the ‘Test and Treat Policy for HIV patients’ in April 2017. As per this policy all people living with HIV (PLHIV) are to be treated with Antiretro Viral Therapy regardless of CD4 count, clinical stage, age or population. The National Strategic Plan for HIV/AIDS and STI 2017-24 has been approved in June 2017.
The details of the strategies under National Strategic Plan for HIV/AIDS and STI 2017-24 are as follows: • • • • •
Accelerating HIV prevention in key population and ‘at risk group’. Expanding quality assured HIV testing with universal access to comprehensive HIV care. Elimination of mother to child transmission of HIV and syphilis. Addressing the critical enablers in HIV programming. Restructuring the strategic information system to be efficient and patient-centric.
Measles-Rubella (MR) Vaccination Campaign • India, along with ten other WHO South East Asia Region member countries, have resolved to eliminate measles and control rubella/congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) by 2020. • The campaign aims to cover approximately 41 crore children between the age group of 9 months to less than 15 years and is going to be the largest ever vaccination campaign worldwide. • Measles immunization directly contributes to the reduction of under-five child mortality, and in combination with rubella vaccine, it will control rubella and prevent CRS.
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Schemes to make education loan as easy loans All Scheduled Commercial Banks provide Education Loan to students. Simple interest is charged during the study period and up to commencement of repayment. Accrued interest is added to the principal amount borrowed while fixing EMI (Equated Monthly Instalment) for repayment. Central Scheme to provide Interest Subsidy (CSIS) wherein full interest subsidy is available for the students belonging to economically weaker sections, for studies in India, for educational loans. Padho Pardesh Scheme to award interest subsidy to meritorious students belonging to economically weaker sections of notified minority communities for overseas studies. Dr Ambedkar Central Sector Scheme of Interest Subsidy on Educational Loan for Overseas Studies for Other Backward Classes whereby interest payable by the students for the period of moratorium is borne by the Government of India. Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
In order to facilitate easy processing and disbursal of loans, Government has launched a webbased portal namely Vidya Lakshmi Portal where students can apply online and track education loans. Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Education Loans (CGFSEL) is also there wherein collateral free loan is given up to Rs. 7.5 lakh. NITI Aayog selects 3 States for transformative change in Health & Education sectors In a major push to competitive, cooperative federalism, NITI Aayog, today, announces partnership with three States each to radically transform their Health and Education sectors. NITI Aayog has selected Uttar Pradesh, Assam, and Karnataka to improve healthcare delivery and key outcomes in these States. In Education, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Jharkhand have been selected for support to better learning outcomes. The six States have been chosen after a rigorous competitive process based on comprehensive metrics to determine potential for impact and likelihood of success. The States highlighted the initiatives undertaken by them thus far, their willingness to accelerate improvement and justified why they should be selected for the institutional support being offered by NITI Aayog. This three-way partnership between NITI, State Governments and a knowledge partner for each of the sectors is part of the Sustainable Action for Transforming Human Capital (SATH) initiative of NITI Aayog. SATH Initiative has been launched to go beyond ranking states and to handhold them in improving their social sector indicators. SATH Initiative is a challenging and ambitious initiative as the baseline of various indicators and parameters of education and health in the States are in public domain.
National Family Health Survey • As per the National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-4 (2015-16), 35.7 per cent children below five years are underweight, 38.4 per cent are stunted and 21 per cent are wasted in the country. • The indicator “Children under 5 years who are underweight (weight-for-age)” is one of the composite indicator for child malnutrition. • As per NFHS-4 data, the national average of children under 5 years who are underweight has reduced from 42.5% as reported in NFHS-3(2005-06) to 35.7% in NFHS-4(2015-16). • In the State of Madhya Pradesh during the same period, underweight children under 5 years has gone down from 60%(NFHS-3) (2005-06) to 42.8%(NFHS-4). • In the State of Madhya Pradesh the districts Barwani & Sheopur have reported highest (55%) of children under 5 years who are underweight during 2015-16 (NFHS-4).
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Childhood Obesity Junk Food is a term used for food containing high levels of calories from sugar or fat with little fiber, protein, vitamins or minerals. These foods lead to a rapid increase in blood sugar levels (high glycemic index) which forces the body to produce high levels of insulin to counter the rising blood sugar. As reported by Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), development of obesity is multifactorial and eating of junk and processed food is one of them. Childhood obesity is a risk factor of developing heart diseases and diabetes in later life.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Ministry of Women and Child Development had constituted a Working Group on addressing consumption of foods High in Fat, Salt and Sugar (HFSS) and promotion of healthy snacks in schools of India, which has given its report. ICMR, National Institute of Nutrition (NIN) and other institutions carry out research and studies related to food and healthy diet. Apart from this, the consumers are made aware of food safety through consumer awareness programmes launched jointly by the Department of Consumer Affairs and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) which also includes advertisements in different media, campaigns, educational booklets, information on FSSAI website and Mass awareness campaigns.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August ECONOMIC ISSUES
Air India: Issues, steps taken by the government:
The main reasons for the losses of Air India is that the company is facing financial pressure and earning less profits due to high debt burden as an offshoot of past accumulated losses. The debt servicing is at around Rs. 6000 crores per annum for Air India. The Government had approved a Turnaround Plan (TAP) / Financial Restructuring Plan (FRP) for operational and financial turnaround of Air India. As a part of the turnaround strategy, the company, with the overall support of the government, has initiated a number of steps in order to cut costs and losses. • • •
Route rationalization of erstwhile Air India (AI) & Indian Airlines (IA) route and elimination of route network involving parallel operations. Rationalization of certain loss making routes. Enhanced utilization of new fleet resulting in production of higher Available Seat Kilometers (ASKMs).
During the last three years Air India initiated a number of steps including various phase market initiatives. The steps include the following: • • • • • •
Introduction of New Routes. Preferred seat selection on domestic and international routes. Flash sale of seats to increase revenues and Passenger Load Factor (PLF). To utilize unsold inventory/launching of airfare equivalent to Rajdhani IIAC fare on select sectors. Dynamic pricing and introduction of Advance Purchase fare. Various sales and Marketing Initiatives.
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) in its meeting held on 28th June, 2017 has given in-principle approval for considering strategic disinvestment of Air India and its five subsidiaries and constitution of Air India Specific Alternative Mechanism. Upgradation of Airports in North Eastern Region •
The Airports Authority of India is developing Guwahati Airport as an inter-regional hub, while Agartala, Dibrugarh and Imphal airports are being developed as intra-regional hubs in the North eastern region.
Initiatives to Bridge Skill Gap in Civil Aviation Sector •
In accordance with the road map for aviation education and skill development contained in the National Civil Aviation Policy, 2016, The Rajiv Gandhi National Aviation University (RGNAU) has been set up to facilitate and promote aviation studies and research, achieve excellence in areas related to aviation sector, and to produce quality human resources. Recovery of undisclosed income post demonetization
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
The Government has launched ‘Operation Clean Money’ on 31st January 2017 with the mission to “create a tax compliant society through a fair, transparent and non-intrusive tax administration where every Indian takes pride in paying taxes”. Welfare of districts affected by mining related operations
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Ministry of Mines has amended the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) (MMDR) Act, 1957 through the MMDR Amendment Act, 2015, one of the important provisions being the introduction of section 9(B); for the establishment of District Mineral Foundation (DMF) in districts affected by mining related operations. The DMF will get a 10% of royalty in respect of mining leases granted on or after 12.1.2015; and 30% of royalty in respect of mining leases granted before 12.1.2015. The Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) has been conceived by the Central Government which will be implemented by the District Mineral Foundations (DMFs) of the respective districts using the funds accrued to them. At least 60% of PMKKKY funds will be utilized for high priority areas like: drinking water supply, environment preservation and pollution control measures; health care education, welfare of women and children; welfare of aged and disabled people; skill development; and sanitation. The rest of the funds will be utilized for the physical infrastructure; irrigation; energy and watershed development; and any other measures for enhancing environmental quality in mining district. Mandating Aadhaar linkage to PAN cards
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Permanent Account Number (PAN) is the key identifier of taxable entity and aggregator of all financial transactions undertaken by one person. One PAN for one person is the guiding principle for allotment of PAN. However, for achieving the objective of one PAN to one assessee it is required to maintain uniqueness of PAN. The uniqueness of PAN is achieved by conducting a de-duplication check on all already existing allotted PAN against the data furnished by new applicant. Some instances are found where multiple PANs have been allotted to one person or one PAN has been allotted to multiple persons despite the application of de-duplication process based on demographic data. Linkage of Aadhaar number into PAN database will allow a robust way of de-duplication as Aadhaar number is based on biometric attributes of finger prints and iris images. Further seeding of Aadhaar will allow the Income-tax Department to weed out any undetected duplicate PANs. It will also facilitate resolution of cases of one PAN allotted to multiple persons. In this regard, the PAN service provider carries out onsite verification of PAN applications to verify identity and addresses of the applicant and share the report of such verification to the concerned Assessing Officer. On receipt of such report the assessing officer also conducts enquires and mark the PAN as “Fake”. National Mission on Electric Mobility
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Government of India approved the National Mission on Electric Mobility in 2011 and subsequently National Electric Mobility Mission Plan 2020 was unveiled in 2013. Under Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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the National Electric Mobility Mission Plan 2020, Government of India has an ambitious target to achieve 60-70 lakh sales of hybrid and electric vehicles by 2020. As part of the mission, Department of Heavy Industry formulated a scheme namely FAME India [Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehiclesin India]. The overall scheme is proposed to be implemented over a period of 6 years, till 2020, wherein it is intended to support the hybrid / electric vehicles market development and its manufacturing eco-system to achieve self-sustenance at the end of the stipulated period.
Electricity Generated from Nuclear Power Plants •
Electricity generated by central sector generating stations is allocated to the beneficiary States and Union Territories in the electricity region by the Ministry of Power (MoP) and 50% of power is allocated to ‘Home’ State, 15% unallocated power kept at the disposal of Government of India and 35% is allocated to other constituents (except ‘Home’ State) of that region. Involvement of Foreign Companies in Indian Nuclear Sector
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FDI is not permitted in nuclear power sector. Thus, foreign companies cannot invest in nuclear power. Nuclear power projects to be set up with foreign technical cooperation are planned to be funded by a mix of equity and debt, with equity to be mobilised from internal resources of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL), Joint Venture companies between NPCIL and other Central Public Sector Undertakings and Government budgetary support. Foreign companies can however, invest in the supply chain for nuclear power projects.
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Setting up of Border Haats is one of the methods for facilitating and increasing border trade across neighbouring countries. Currently four Border Haats are operational along India-Bangladesh border. Two Border Haats are located in Meghalaya at Kalaichar and Balat and two are located in Tripura at Srinagar and Kamalasagar. In addition to them, Government of India and Government of the People’s Republic of Bangladesh have agreed to set up six more border haats-two in Tripura and four in Meghalaya.
Achievements of Telecom Sector in India The major achievements of the Indian Telecom Industry• • • • • • • •
Over 400 million internet users FDI quadrupled in FY2016-17 recording inflow of approximately USD 5.6 billion Greater than 20 per cent tower sites now diesel free Rural Tele density increased by 30 per cent over the last five years More than 3/4th of the data consumption was from 3G/4G Telecom industry generates over 4 million jobs direct and indirect LTE device ecosystem grew by 270 per cent from 2015 38 new mobile manufacturing units set up since September 2015
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Automobile sector's contribution to GDP •
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Automotive Mission Plan 2026 is aimed at bringing the Indian Automotive Industry among the top three of the world in engineering, manufacture and exports of vehicles & components; growing in value to over 12% of India GDP during the next decade. Auto Industry Contribution to National output at Factor Cost with base year prices 2004-05 in 2014-15 is 7.2%. Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) is a credit-linked subsidy programme aimed at generating self-employment opportunities through establishment of micro-enterprises in the non-farm sector by helping traditional artisans and unemployed youth. Any individual above 18 years of age is eligible. For setting up of projects costing above Rs.10 lakh in the manufacturing sector and above Rs. 5 lakh in the business /service sector, the beneficiaries should possess at least VIII standard pass educational qualification. General category beneficiaries can avail of margin money subsidy of 25 % of the project cost in rural areas and 15% in urban areas. For beneficiaries belonging to special categories such as scheduled caste/scheduled tribe/OBC /minorities/women, ex-serviceman, physically handicapped, NER, Hill and Border areas etc. the margin money subsidy is 35% in rural areas and 25% in urban areas.
Major initiatives taken by Indian Railways towards improvement of cleanliness in trains 1. Cleaning of coaches of trains at both ends including mechanized cleaning. 2. On Board House Keeping Service (OBHS) has been provided in nearly 900 trains including Rajdhani, Shatabdi, and other important long distance Mail/Express trains for cleaning of coach toilets, doorways, aisles and passenger compartments during the run of the trains. 3. ‘Clean My Coach’ service is provided on demand in nearly 880 important Superfast/ Mail/Express long distance trains having “On Board Housekeeping Service”. 4. Clean Train Station (CTS) scheme has also been prescribed for limited mechanized cleaning attention to identified trains including cleaning of toilets during their scheduled stoppages enroute at nominated stations. 40 Clean Train Stations are presently working. Common Agency for Collection of Price Statistics National Statistical Commission (NSC) constituted ‘Committee on Price Statistics’ under the Chairmanship of Dr.SudiptoMundle in July 2010. The term of reference of the Committee included Integration of data collection machinery. The Committee submitted report in 2011. Accordingly, the Committee made following recommendations: • •
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Integration of Price data collection for CPI-Rural and CPI-Agricultural Labourers /Rural Labourers. The integration of price collection mechanism for all price indices should be accomplished by entrusting the task to a single agency, namely, Field Operation Division (FOD) of National sample Survey Office (NSSO). Technical bottlenecks in integrating the datasets for CPI-Urban and CPI-Industrial Workers should be resolved by Prices Unit of National Accounts Division, Central Statistics Office (CSO) in consultation with Labour Bureau.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Government revises the base year of All-India Wholesale Price Index (WPI) from 2004-05 to 201112 • The Government has revised the base year of All-India Wholesale Price Index (WPI) from 2004-05 to 2011-12. • The base year revision of WPI has aligned the series with the base year of other macroeconomic indicators such as the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) and Index of Industrial Production (IIP). • The Government has modernized the data collection methods by adopting international norms and global best practices such as submission of data online through web portals, use of computer assisted personal interviewing methods etc. • The new series of WPI has the following salient features and improvements over the old series: o The revised basket of WPI and its weighting structure conform to the structure of economy in 2011-12. o The number of items in the basket has increased from 676 to 697 and the number of price quotations has increased from 5482 to 8331. o New series of WPI does not include indirect taxes. This is in consonance with international practices and will make the new WPI conceptually closer to Producer Price Index. o A new “Food Index” is compiled to capture the inflation in food items. o Seasonality of fruits and vegetables has been updated to account for more months as they are now available for longer duration. o Item level aggregates for new WPI are compiled using Geometric Mean (GM) instead of Arithmetic Mean.
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e-Shakti initiative of NABARD e-Shakti is a pilot project of National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) for digitisation of Self Help Groups (SHGs). It was initiated to address certain concerns like improving the quality of book keeping of SHGs and to enable banks to take informed credit decisions about the group through a Management Information System (MIS).
Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana (AGEY) The Government of India has decided to launch a new sub-scheme named “Aajeevika Grameen Express Yojana (AGEY)” as part of the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). The Self Help Groups under DAY-NRLM will operate road transport service in backward areas. This will help to provide safe, affordable and community monitored rural transport services to connect remote villages with key services and amenities (such as access to markets, education and health) for the overall economic development of backward rural areas. This will also provide an additional avenue of livelihood for SHGs. The Community Investment Fund (CIF) provided to Community Based Organization (CBOs) under DAY-NRLM will be utilized to support the SHG members in this new livelihoods initiative. The beneficiary SHG member will be provided an interest free loan by the CBO from its Community Investment Fund uptoRs.6.50 lakh for purchase of the vehicle. Alternative, CBO Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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will own the vehicle and lease it to an SHG member to operate the vehicle and pay lease rental to the CBO
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Development of Shipping Sector Under the Government of India’s Sagarmala Programme to promote port-led development, a master plan has been formulated for the 12 Major Ports. In order to strengthen the shipping and ports sector and make it internationally competitive, the Government of India has taken various steps which include the following : Exemption of Customs and Excise Duty leviable on bunker fuels used in Indian flag vessels for transportation of mix of EXIM, domestic and empty containers between two or more ports in India. Abatement of service tax of 70% for transportation of goods by Coastal shipping and Inland Waterways transportation To promote manufacture of sea-going vessels by Indian shipyards, Shipbuilding Financial Assistance Policy was approved for contracts signed during a ten year period, viz. 2016-2026. Customs and Central Excise duty exemption on inputs used in manufacture of ships to provide a level playing field between indigenously built ships vis-à-vis imported ships. Shipping enterprises based in India have been permitted to acquire ships abroad and also flag them in the country of their convenience. This policy initiative of “Indian Controlled Tonnage (ICT)” has facilitated Indian ship-owners to gain access to cheaper funds abroad and also save on costs of setting up subsidiaries abroad to acquire and maintain such tonnage. Launch of GeM Samvad: The GeM -Industry forum A MoU between GeM and CII is signed; it is aimed at establishing GeM Samvad- a participative and collaborative approach with the industry for promoting Indian industry and entrepreneurship. As part of this initiative GeM & the Indian industry shall work together to: o Create GeM related awareness and onboard industry members from across the country. o Create a GeM-Industry Forum for collaboration with the Indian Industry for, seeking inputs on the technical specifications of products and SLAs of services to be procured by the Government agencies, improving the quality of products/services procured especially from the MSMEs, organize annual Public Procurement Convention of all stakeholders and set up GeM Resource Centres at CII Regional Offices
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August Defence and Security Issues
Coastal Defence Security •
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The coastal security issues are regularly reviewed at appropriate levels with National committee on Strengthening Maritime and Coastal Security (NCSMCS), being the apex body for inter-ministerial and inter-agency coordination. A coastal security mechanism in the form of a three-tiered cover comprising Indian Navy (IN), Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and State Marine Police with demarcated areas of responsibility has been put in place. Coastal Security Exercises are being conducted in all coastal States and Union Territories to assess the effectiveness of existing mechanisms and to address gaps. Coastal Surveillance Network (CSN) which includes radars has been established along the coastline. Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard have been provided with adequate powers under the Coast Guard Act, 1978 and other Acts / Rules to enable them to face various challenges effectively. Justice Krishna to head expert group on Data Protection Framework for India
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Recognising the importance of data protection and keeping personal data of citizens secure and protected, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY), Government of India has constituted a Committee of Experts under the Chairmanship of Justice B N Srikrishna, Former Judge, Supreme Court of India It comprises of members from Government, Academia and Industry to study and identify key data protection issues and recommend methods for addressing them. The committee will also suggest a draft Data Protection Bill. Protection of Data is expected to provide big boost to Digital economy of the country.
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RBI has issued Cyber Security Framework in Banks, mandating banks to put in place a Boardapproved cyber-security policy, which covers the risks from cyber threats and the measures to address/ mitigate these risks. RBI has issued instructions to banks for reversal of erroneous debits arising from fraudulent or other transactions, and for Board-approved bank policy to cover customer protection, the mechanism of compensating the customer for the unauthorised electronic banking transactions, and display of the same on the bank’s website, along with the details of grievance-handling / escalation procedure. Under the Banking Ombudsman Scheme, if a customer does not receive any reply within a period of one month after receipt of representation by the bank or is not satisfied with the reply given, he can file a complaint before the Ombudsman, who can ask the bank to pay compensation of up to Rs. 20 lakh to the customer for loss, suffered by the customer due to an act of omission of the bank, and also compensation of up to Rs. 1 lakh for mental agony and harassment. Curtailing money supply to anti-India activists
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
The Government has constituted a Combating Financing of Terrorism Cell (CFT Cell) in the Ministry of Home Affairs to coordinate with the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), an intergovernmental international body dealing with anti-money laundering and CFT issues National Investigation Agency (NIA) has also constituted a terror funding and fake currency cell to focus on terror funding and fake currency cases. Besides, various agencies such as Financial Intelligent Unit and regulatory and enforcement agencies under the Ministry of Finance keep a check on the inflow of foreign funds. In addition to above, a surveillance mechanism has been put in place by the State Government to check cases relating to foreign and suspicious funding, including Hawala and cases under Prevention of Money Laundering Act. New strategy to handle LWE affected States Multipronged strategy comprising of security, development, ensuring rights and entitlements of local communities should be vigorously pursued. The concept of ‘SAMADHAN’ given as new doctrine by home minister can be used. The elements of this strategy are S for Smart Leadership, A for Aggressive Strategy, M for Motivation and Training, A for Actionable Intelligence, D for Dashboard-based Key Result Areas and Key Performance Indicators, H for Harnessing Technology, A for Action Plan for Each Theatre and N for No access to Financing.
Major Military or Defence Agreement Signed With Foreign Countries For Last Three Years Bangladesh - MoU between the Coast Guards for establishment of Collaborative Relationship to Combat Transnational Illegal activities at sea and Develop Regional Cooperation. 2. France- Inter-Governmental Agreement for procurement of 36 Rafale aircrafts. 3. Japan- Agreement concerning the Transfer of Defence Equipment and Technology and Agreement concerning security measures for protection of classified military information. 4. Oman- Protocol between the Air Forces on Flight Safety Information Exchange and MoU between the Coast Guards in the field of Marine Crime Prevention at Sea and Maritime Cooperation. 5. Republic of Korea - to develop and strengthen defence industry cooperation and to establish Special Strategic Partnership including close cooperation in Naval Ship Building. 6. Russia - Agreement on Training of Indian Armed Forces personnel in the Russian Military Training Establishment; on Cooperation in Aircraft Flight Safety; on Cooperation in the field of Helicopter Engineering; on Supply of S-400 Triumph Air Defence Missile Systems to the Republic of India; for construction of follow-on ships of Project 11356 in Russia and in India. 7. Seychelles - MoU for Cooperation in the field of Hydrography. 8. Singapore - Defence Cooperation Agreement 9. USA - New Framework for the India-US Defence Relationship and Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA. 10. Vietnam- MoU between Coast Guards for establishment of collaborative relationship to combat transnational crime and develop mutual cooperation and Programme of Cooperation between the Vietnam People’s Air Force & Air Defence and Indian Air Force.
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Security Cover • Security is provided on the basis of threat assessment of individuals and the category of security (Z+, Z, Y+, Y& X) is decided on the basis of nature and gravity of the threat. Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Threat assessment is done by the security agencies to determine the nature and gravity of threat faced by an individual. At present there are 288 threat based protectees (Z+ =25, Z =61, Y+ =113, Y =19, X =70) in the Central list.
Make in India – Defence Sector Defence Forces are actively involved in various policies & procedures related to procurement, indigenous design, development & manufacture of defence equipment, co-development & coproduction with foreign OEMs, thus contributing towards ‘Make in India’ Technology Development Fund (TDF) Scheme •
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TDF scheme launched by the Government aims at funding the development of defence and dual use technologies that are currently not available with the Indian defence industry, or have not been developed so far, thus creating an Eco-system for enhancing cutting edge technology capability for Defence application. The scheme envisages constitution of Empowered Committee and Technical Committee with representation from Armed Forces as members, which are involved in identification of technologies, Project Monitoring & Mentoring activities.
Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP) •
‘Buy & Make (Indian)’ and ‘Buy & Make’ categories of capital acquisition under DPP, envisage tie-up between Indian Vendor/ Indian Production Agency & foreign OEM, for indigenous production of defence equipment involving Transfer of Technology (ToT) of critical technologies to promote ‘Make in India’. The Defence Personnel are engaged at various stages of procurement to progress the projects categorized under these categories.
Army Design Bureau (ADB) •
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Service HQ (Army) has established an Army Design Bureau (ADB) in August - 2016 as a single point coordination with Industry & Academia. The mandate of ADB is to act as a central repository of technical know-how, to bring forward the innovation undertaken by field formation, to generate long-term research requirement for Indian Army etc. In addition, a large number of personnel from the Armed forces are posted in DRDO (Defence Research & Development Organisation) to provide impetus to design & development of projects of the Armed forces, thus contributing to indigenization process.
Joint Naval Exercise • There is no institutionalized joint exercise with China. However, a Passage Exercise (PASSEX) was conducted with the PLA Navy during an Indian Navy Ship’s visit to Qingdao, China in April 2014.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August AGRICULTURE
Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture(MIDH) •
The Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) envisages production and productivity improvement of horticulture crops like fruits (including apple) and vegetables through various interventions.
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Capacity building of farmers and technicians are also provided for adopting improved technologies. Scheme also envisages creation of infrastructure for Post-Harvest Management (PHM) and marketing for better price realization of produce.
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Under the mission assistance is provided for development of all relevant infrastructure like cold storages, controlled atmosphere (CA) storage, reefer vans, primary/mobile processing units and setting up of ripening chambers etc.
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It promotes logistic integration with the aim to reduce losses across total supply chain and enable farmers to access markets to get remunerative prices for their produce. Agriculture Produce Market Committee
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The Agriculture Ministry has drafted a model “The Agricultural Produce and Livestock Marketing (Promotion and Facilitation) Act, 2017. The features of the new model law have several Agricultural marketing reforms: o including setting up markets in private sector, o direct marketing, o farmer-consumer markets, o de-regulation of fruits and vegetables, o e-trading and single point levy of market fee, o issue of unified single trading license in the State, o Declaring warehouses/silos/cold storage as market sub-yards and Market Yards of National Importance (MNI) so that more markets are available for farmers to sell their produce for better prices. Since the Agriculture is a State subject, the States were urged to adopt the Model Agriculture Produce and Livestock Marketing (Promotion & Facilitation) Act, 2017. Facilities to Farmers
ATMA scheme: •
The Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers’ Welfare (DAC&FW) has taken up several initiatives in the field of agricultural extension which includes ‘Support to State Extension Programmes for Extension Reforms’ which is popularly known as ATMA Scheme.
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Setting up of autonomous institutions at the State/District/Block level. Encouraging multi-agency and broad-based extension strategies adopting group approach to extension and Facilitating convergence of programmes in planning, executing and implementation.
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The Government is educating farmers through display of exhibits for know-how on new tools and technology, creating awareness about schemes, programmes activities being implemented for benefiting and helping farmers. Farmers’ education/awareness programmes are being implemented through agriculture fair, exhibitions and use of print, electronic media like Radio, TV and Social Media platforms, etc.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Kisan Call Centres (KCCs) scheme: • • •
Farmers’ queries are answered on a telephone call in their own dialect between 6.00 AM to 10.00 PM on all seven days. Presently, these Call Centres are working in 14 different locations covering all the States and UTs. A Toll Free No.1800-180-1551 has been allotted for this purpose.
Kisan Suvidha Mobile App •
It has been launched by the Government which provides information to the farmers on Weather report, Plant Protection, Input Dealers, Agro-Advisory and Marketing. Besides, Pusa Krishi Mobile App, Agri-Market App and Crop Insurance Mobile App have also been launched for the benefit of farmers.
Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) •
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has established a network of 680 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) in the country with mandate of Technology Assessment and Demonstration for its Application and Capacity Development. A number of activities viz. on-farm trials, front-line demonstrations, creation of awareness on improved agricultural technologies, etc. are conducted by KVKs for the benefit of farmers.
Crop Development Schemes •
National Food Security Mission (NFSM) on rice, wheat, pulses, coarse cereals and Commercial Crops (cotton, jute & sugarcane); Bringing Green Revolution to Eastern India (BGREI) andCrop Diversification Programme (CDP).
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Under these schemes, scientific crop production technologies are being promoted at the farmers’ field through organization of cluster demonstrations and training of farmers with latest crop production technologies such as timely sowing, seed rate, recommended package of practices, etc. for reduction in the cost of cultivation. New initiatives like distribution of seed mini-kits of newer varieties of pulses free of cost, production of quality seed, creation of seed hubs at SAU and KVKs, strengthening of bio-fertilizers and bio-agent labs at SAUs/ICAR Institute, technological demonstration by KVKs and enhancing up breeder seed production have been included under NFSM.
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Under NFSM and BGREI, there is a provision of ‘Cropping System Based Training’ of farmers which includes four sessions i.e. one before Kharif and Rabi Seasons, one each during Kharif and Rabi Seasons. Under this programme, training of trainers/farmers is imparted by Crop/Subject-Matter Specialist of ICAR Institute/SAUs/KVKs on creating awareness about the new high yielding varieties.
National Mission on Oilseeds and Oil Palm (NMOOP) •
Under NMOOP programme, Transfer of Technology (ToT) component, assistance is provided to States for conducting Farmers Training and Trainers Training Programme, in which training is provided to the farmers and extension workers educating the farmers to avail the benefits of the programme.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) •
‘Per Drop More Crop’: DAC&FW is implementing ‘Per Drop More Crop’ component of PMKSY. It mainly focuses on water use efficiency at farm level through precision/micro irrigation (Drip and Sprinkler Irrigation).
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Integrated Pest Management (IPM •
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is an ecological approach which aims to keep pest population below economic thresholds level by employing available alternate pest control strategies and techniques viz. preventive measures, cultural, mechanical and biological control with greater emphasis on usage of bio-pesticides and pesticides of plant-origin like Neem formulation, etc.
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The Government is implementing “Strengthening and Modernization of Pest Management Approach in India” through 35 Central Integrated Pest Management Centres (CIPMCs) of Directorate of Plant Protection Quarantine and Storage established across the country, which inter alia, organizes Farmers Field Schools (FFSs) to promote IPM approach. Schemes for the development of cattle population in the country
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Rashtriya Gokul Mission has been launched December 2014 for the development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds thereby enhancing milk production and productivity. The framework of the scheme is to enhance milk production & productivity through induction of high genetic merit bulls for semen production; field performance recording; strengthening of bulls mother farms; setting up of Gokul Grams etc.
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National Programme for Bovine Breeding is being implemented for enhancing productivity of milch animals through extension of Artificial Insemination (AI) coverage. This is done through establishment of Multi-Purpose AI Technicians in Rural India (MAITRIs); strengthening of existing AI centres; monitoring of AI etc.
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National Mission on Bovine Productivity has been launched in November 2016 with the aim of enhancing milk production and productivity and thereby making dairying more remunerative to the farmers. The scheme is being implemented with following components o Pashu Sanjivni- this component includes identification of animals in milk using UID, issuing health cards to all animals in milk and uploading data on INAPH data base; o Advance reproductive Technique- under the component sex sorted semen production facility is being created at 10 A graded semen stations and 50 Embryo Transfer Technology Labs with IVF facilities are being created in the country; o Creation of E Pashu Haat Portal- The e-pashu haat portal has been launched in November 2016 for linking farmers and breeders of indigenous breeds ans o Establishment of National Bovine Genomic Centre for Indigenous Breeds(NBGC-IB): The NBGC-IB is being established for enhancing milk production and productivity through genomic selection among indigenous breeds.
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Two National Kamdhenu Breeding Centres are being established one in the State of Andhra Pradesh for southern region and other in Madhya Pradesh for northern region of the country with the aim of development and conservation of indigenous breeds in a scientific manner and thereby enhancing milk production and productivity. Government has also established three subordinate organizations namely Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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o Central Cattle Breeding Farms (CCBFs) o Central Herd registration Scheme and o Central Frozen Semen Production & Training Institute. These organizations are also undertaking genetic upgradation of milch animals through supply of disease free high genetic merit bulls for semen production and natural service for use in the breeding programme being implemented by the States.
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National Dairy Plan-I a world Bank assisted project being implemented in 18 major dairy States with aim of enhancing milk production and productivity in order to meet demand of milk in the country through strengthening of semen stations; bull production programme (progeny testing and pedigree selection), ration balancing programme etc. Steps are taken for safe storage and preservations of foodgrains:
During storage, the following steps are taken for safe storage and preservations of foodgrains: • • • • • •
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Food grains are stored by adopting proper scientific code of storage practices. Adequate dunnage materials such as wooden crates, bamboo mats, polythene sheets are used to check migration of moisture from the floor to the food grains. Fumigation covers, nylon ropes, nets and insecticides for control of stored grain insect pests are provided in all the godowns. Prophylactic (spraying of insecticides) and curative treatments (fumigation) are carried out regularly and timely in godowns for the control of stored grain insect pests. Effective rat control measures, both in covered godowns as well as in CAP storage are used. Foodgrains in ‘Cover and Plinth’ (CAP) storage are stored on elevated plinths and wooden crates are used as dunnage material. Stacks are properly covered with specifically fabricated low-density black polythene water -proof covers and tied with nylon ropes/nets. Regular periodic inspections of the stocks/godowns are undertaken by qualified and trained staff and all senior officers. The health of the foodgrains is monitored at regular intervals by a system of checks and super checks at different levels. The principle of “First in First Out” (FIFO) is followed to the extent possible so as to avoid longer storage of foodgrains in godowns. Only covered rail wagons are used for movement of foodgrains so as to avoid damage during transit. Steps taken to ensure remunerative price to farmers:
1) The minimum support prices (MSP) are announced by the Government of India at the beginning of the sowing season for crops on the basis of the recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) which determines the MSP based on the input costs and margin to farmers. 2) MSP (Minimum Support Price) operations are given wide publicity through pamphlets, banners, sign boards radio, TV and advertisements through print & electronic media. 3) Procurement centres are opened by respective State Govt. Agencies/ FCI taking into account the production, marketable surplus, convenience of farmers and availability of other logistics / infrastructure such as storage and transportation etc. 4) For further strengthening the system that the farmers directly get the MSP announced by GOI, and the entire procurement of paddy to be done only by the State Agencies/FCI and
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5) The payment to farmers is done largely through electronic mode or account payee cheque by State Agencies/FCI other than in Punjab & Haryana where it is routed through the Arthiyas as per APMC Act of the State. 6) Department of Food & Public Distribution is implementing a Scheme on 'End-to-end Computerization of TPDS Operations' with the aim to improve the efficiency of the current system and to address various challenges such as leakages and diversion of foodgrains, elimination of fake and bogus ration cards etc. 7) The scheme comprises digitization of ration cards/beneficiary and other databases, online allocation, computerization of supply-chain management, setting up of transparency portal and grievance Redressal mechanism. Special package to address debt burden of farmers The Government has taken the following initiatives to reduce the debt burden of farmers: • •
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Ensuring availability of agriculture credit at a reduced interest rate of 7% p.a. to farmers Interest subvention scheme for short term crop loans up to Rs. 3.00 lakh where additional subvention of 3% is given to those farmers who repay their short term crop loan in time, thereby reducing the effective rate of interest to 4% p.a. for such farmers. Relief measures in areas affected by natural calamities including drought which, include identification of beneficiaries, extending fresh loans and restructuring of existing loans, relaxed security and margin norms, moratorium, etc. In addition, as per the Priority Sector Lending Guidelines issued by RBI, loans to distressed farmers to repay non-institutional lenders, are eligible under priority sector. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) provides a comprehensive insurance cover against failure of insured crops due to non-preventable natural risks, thus providing financial support to farmers suffering crop loss/ damage arising out of unforeseen events; stabilizing the income of farmers to ensure their continuance in farming; and encouraging them to adopt innovative and modern agricultural practices. For development of agriculture and welfare of farmers of the country, the Government in Department of Agriculture Cooperation and Farmers Welfare (DAC&FW), is implementing various Central Sector/ Centrally Sponsored Schemes, which include: o Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) o National Food Security Mission (NFSM) o National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) o National Mission For Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA)
AGRI UDAAN- Food and Agribusiness Accelerator 2.0 • ICAR-NAARM Technology Business Incubator (TBI), a-IDEA and Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad’s (IIM-A) incubator Center for Innovation, Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE) announces “AGRI UDAAN”- Food and Agribusiness Accelerator 2.0 • This programme will help to selected innovative startups who will be mentored in to scale up their operations in agri value chain for effective improvement in agriculture. This is a 6 month program in which shortlisted agri startups with promising innovative business models will be mentored & guided to scale up their operations. BRICS Agriculture Research Platform (BRICS-ARP) •
During the 7th BRICS Summit held on 9thJuly 2015 at Ufa in Russia, Prime Minister Shri Modi proposed to establish BRICS Agriculture Research Centre which will be a gift to the entire world. Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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The Centre will promote sustainable agricultural development and poverty alleviation through strategic cooperation in agriculture to provide food security in the BRICS member countries. BRICS-ARP will be the natural global platform for science-led agriculture-based sustainable development for addressing the issues of world hunger, under-nutrition, poverty and inequality, particularly between farmers' and non-farmers' income, and enhancing agricultural trade, bio-security and climate resilient agriculture.
Roadmap for Next Three Years for Evergreen Revolution The NITI Aayog has drafted the three years action plan for all the sectors including agriculture. The action plan on agriculture deals with remunerative prices for farmers and raising productivity. Strategy chalked out for increase in production of pulses, use of wasteland, seed village programme and model contract farming are as below:Increase in production of Pulses • •
National Food Security Mission (NFSM-Pulses) is being implemented in 638 districts of 29 States in the country. The interventions covered under NFSM-Pulses include cluster demonstrations on improved package of practices, demonstrations on cropping system, distribution of High Yielding Varieties (HYVs), Integrated Pest Management, resource conservation technologies/tools, efficient water application tools and cropping system based training for increasing production and productivity of pulses, creation of seed hubs, breeder seed production, minikit distribution, cluster frontline demonstrations etc.
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PMKSY is principally for development of rainfed portions of net cultivated & culturable wastelands.
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To upgrade the quality of farmer’s saved seeds financial assistance for distribution of foundation/certified seeds at 50% cost of the seeds for cereal crops and 60% for pulses, fodder, oilseeds and green manure crops for production of quality seeds is now available for one acre per farmer. The above schemes are demand driven and implemented by the States/implementing agencies for benefiting the farmers.
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This Model Act on Contract Farming would address the constraints in promoting contract farming in a holistic manner by the States. The agriculture and allied sector road map endeavours growth of agriculture for meeting food and nutrition security of the country. Small Farmers Agri-Business Consortium
Background The Government established Small Farmers’ Agri-Business Consortium (SFAC) as a Society in 1994 to facilitate agri-business ventures by catalyzing private investment through Venture Capital Assistance (VCA) Scheme in close association with financial institutions. Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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The setting up of State level SFAC as counterpart agency of Central SFAC for agribusiness projects was part of the Scheme. Central SFAC contributed Rs. 50.00 lakh to each State which establishes a State Level SFAC. So far, 21 States have received funds for Central SFAC for setting up of State SFAC. Functions of SFAC The main functions of SFAC are: • • • •
Promotion of development of small agribusiness through VCA scheme; Helping formation and growth of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) / Farmer Producer Companies (FPCs); Improving availability of working capital and development of business activities of FPOs/FPCs through Equity Grant and Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme; Implementation of National Agriculture Market (e-NAM) Electronic Trading platform.
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Agri-Business Development (ABD) through Venture Capital Assistance (VCA) and Project Development Facility (PDF) to facilitate the promotion of agri-business projects establishing backward linkages with farmers, providing assured market to their produce, thereby generating employment and enhancing farmers’ income. Equity Grant and Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme to loans extended by banks to Farmer Producer Companies without collateral, up to a maximum of Rs. 1.00 Crore. National goal of 300 million ton milk production by 2023-24 India ranks first in milk production, achieving an annual output of 155.48 million tons during 2015-16 accounting for 19 % of world production. A National goal of 300 million ton milk production by 2023-24 has been kept along with increasing the productivity of 40.77 million breed-able Indigenous non-descript cows from 2.15 Kg per day to 5.00 Kg per day during the same period. Key strategy for increasing productivity is through ensuring Artificial Insemination (AI). AI plays a vital role in improving the productivity of Bovines by upgrading their genetic potential thereby enhancing the milk production and productivity in the country. This core activity is fortified through the ongoing flag ship schemes, National Programme for Bovine Breeding (NPBB) and Indigenous Breeds (IB) under the Umbrella scheme Rashtriya Gokul Mission (RGM). These programmes envisage twin benefits namely (i) To improve the productivity and enhance milk production and (ii) To increase farmers income that will facilitate the Government’s ambitious goal of doubling their income by 2020. To facilitate the government’s ambitious goal of doubling farmers’ income by 2020, a State Wise target of 100 million Artificial Inseminations has been shared for 2017-18. Benefits of new Crop Insurance Schemes
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Government of India has launched the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana ( PMFBY) with simplified provisions making them more farmer friendly. The scheme provides the farmers maximum financial protection against non-preventable natural risks. Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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The Advantages of the scheme are as follows: Reduction in Premium •
The farmers premium has been reduced for all food and oilseeds crops and kept at a maximum of 1.5% for Rabi, 2% for Kharif and 5% for annual horticultural/commercial crops.
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In 2016-17, 30% of Gross Cropped Area (GCA) has been covered in comparison to 23% in 2015-16. In 2016-17, a total of 5.74 crore farmers were covered, including 1.35 crore non-loanees. Thus, there was an increase of 0.89 crore in total coverage of farmers, an enhancement of 18.23% in comparison to the previous year.
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Under PMFBY, in order to provide maximum risk coverage to farmers, sum insured has been equated to Scale of Finance (SOF). As a result the farmers now get timely settlement of claims for entire sum insured, without any deduction and are being compensated for entire crop loss.
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Comprehensive coverage has been provided against non-preventable natural risks from presowing to post-harvest losses. In addition, losses due to localised risks are estimated at the individual farm level for claim settlement.
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In order to promote transparency and timeliness a Central Crop Insurance Portal has been developed which integrates farmers and other stakeholders and also provides for online registration of farmers. All possible farmer friendly administrative initiatives and technology have been put in place to increase the coverage of non-loanee farmers including sharecroppers. For example Common Service (CSC) has been engaged to facilitate enrolment of non-loanee farmers from Kharif 2017. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) has been initiated to facilitate transmission of claims amount directly to the farmers account. Provision has been made for use of advanced technology such as drone, remote sensing etc. for promoting transparency and immediate settlement of insurance claims. To eliminate the delay in payments and to promote transparency, it has been made mandatory to use smartphones and Agri App for capture/transmission of yield data to the crop insurance portal.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August History, Culture and Tourism Promotion of traditional sports • •
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“Sports” is a State subject and, therefore, it is primarily the responsibility of the State Government to promote and develop Sports in the country. The Central Government complements/supplements the efforts of the State Governments. Under the revamped “Khelo India” proposal, there is an exclusive component called “Promotion of Rural, Indigenous and Tribal Games” for promotion and development of traditional sports. In order to revive such traditional sports and games, to promote them among the masses, Sports Authority of India (SAI) has adopted the following indigenous games disciplines for their promotion: o Kalaripayatu, Kerala o Silambam, Tamilnadu o Kabaddi, Telengana o Archery, Jharkhand o Malkhamb, Maharashtra o Mukna, Imphal o Thangta, Imphal o Khomlainai, Assam o Gatka, Punjab
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The objective of the Mission is not only to collect the database of artists, artisans and various art forms, but also to applaud new talent and protect all age group of artists by organizing activities under ‘National Cultural Awareness Programme’ from Block level to National level. Making India a Preferred MICE Destination India is being promoted as a preferred Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination through the Global Incredible India media campaign and through Road Shows and Seminars conducted by the India tourism offices overseas. India is relatively a new entrant in the Global Convention business. Most of the Convention business in India is generated from the domestic market and as per the International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA) Report 2015; India ranks 31st worldwide as a convention destination The India Convention Promotion Bureau (ICPB) has been set up under the patronage of the Ministry of Tourism to promote India as a venue for International Conferences and Exhibitions.
National Handloom day • The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi launched the first National Handloom Day on 7th August, 2015, at a national level function in Chennai. • The date August 7 has been chosen due to its special significance in India`s history; it was on this day that the Swadeshi Movement was launched in 1905. • The third National Handloom Day was celebrated across the country on August 7th, the main event being in Guwahati.
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Sanskrit Day
Sravanapaurnami, that is the Paurnami day of Sravana month in Hindu Calendar, is celebrated as World Sanskrit Day, which was on August 7th this year. Exhibition ‘Quit India’ and ‘Azad Hind Fauj - 75th Anniversary (1942-2017)
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Minister of State (I/C)for Culture and Tourism inauguratedan exhibition “Quit India and Azad Hind Fauj – 75th Anniversary (1942-2017)” in the National Archives of India, Janpath, New Delhi The ‘Quit India Movement’ was an important milestone in the Indian Freedom Movement which made the entire nation determined to attain freedom from the British rule. Millions of Indians responded to Mahatma Gandhi’s clarion call and the mantra of ‘Do or Die’. Gandhi Ji and prominent freedom struggle leaders were all arrested on 9th August, 1942.
The exhibition is spread over four sections viz: (1) The Prelude to the Quit India Movement: •
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The Section displays documents/reports pertaining to the coming of the Cripps Mission to India and its failure, Gandhiji’s description of the offer of the Mission as “post-dated cheque”. The section also depicts the All India Congress Committee resolution of 14 July 1942 at Wardha and its adoption on 8 August 1942 in Mumbai.
(2) The Actual Movement: • This section includes the coining of the term “Quit India” and “Do or Die” by Yusuf Mehar Ali, besides Gandhi’s message in his own words ‘Karenge Ya Marenge – Mat Puccho Kyon’. • Depicting the calendar of events, the section also highlights the role of important personalities like Sarojini Naidu, Suchita Kripalani, Aruna Asaf Ali, Ram Manohar Lohia, Jai Prakash Narayan, J.B. Kripalani and Usha Mehta (who was instrumental in setting up private radio broadcast). (3) The impact of the Movement: • The section reflects the disturbances that occurred all over the country after the arrest of the prominent leaders on 9 August 1942. • The exhibits also showcase the parallel governments that were set up in different parts especially in Midnapur, Satara, Ballia, Tamluk (West Bengal) etc. (4) The Indian National Army and Azad Hind Fauj: • The important documents displayed in this section consist of Indian Independence League, Tokyo 1942, message of Rash Bihari Bose 1942, publicity material, including various posters and banners of Azad Hind Fauj etc. •
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Company Painting School In the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries India witnessed a new genre of painting popularly known as ‘Company School’ as it emerged primarily under the patronage of the British East India Company. The British officers trained Indian artists in British water colour style for documenting Indian daily life scene, monuments, art and culture in the form of Paintings for carrying out as Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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souvenir to their homes while returning to the England. Some of these Company Paintings are illustrated with scenes of Mughal Architectures.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August Science and Technology Cloud Observatory • •
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A high altitude cloud physics observatory has been established at Munnar (Kerala), in Western Ghats, the region which is gateway for the monsoon of India. It is used to observe cloud and rain processes over that region with state of the art observations. Such facility will enable understanding of rainfall distribution and will allow better characterization of rainfall processes in the numerical models used for prediction of monsoon rainfall. It is expected that long term monitoring of cloud and rainfall processes will enable accurate representation of cloud micro-physical process in forecast models to improve over all skill of rainfall prediction for severe weather phenomena viz, heavy rainfall, thunderstorm etc., not only over Kerala but for the whole country. The other High altitude cloud physics laboratory is functional at Mahabaleshwar (Konkan) Progress in Earth Sciences
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The mandate of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) is to provide services for weather, climate, ocean and coastal state, hydrology, seismology and natural hazards; to explore marine living and nonliving resources in a sustainable way and to explore the three polar regions (Arctic, Antarctic and Himalayas). To achieve this mandate, the research & development and operational activities of MoES are carried out under the following five major programs: 1. Atmosphere and Climate Research – Modelling, Observing Systems and Services (ACROSS). 2. Ocean Services, Technology, Observations, Resources, Modelling and Science (OSTORMS). 3. Polar and Cryosphere Research (PACER). 4. Seismology and Geosciences (SAGE). 5. Research, Education, Outreach and Training (REACHOUT). MoES for the first time started issuing forecasts for heat waves over the country. The heat wave forecasts issued during the 2016 hot weather season (April to May) were very successful. Under the National Monsoon Mission, a high resolution global deterministic weather prediction model has been commissioned for generating operational weather forecasts at a horizontal resolution of 12 km. With this, MoES has attained the same capability as in USA in using high resolution weather prediction models Development of first version of Earth System Model (ESM) with good fidelity in simulating the present climate and its variability. The ESM will be the first climate model from India to contribute to the forthcoming sixth Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) climate change assessment process. The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) system has been developed and deployed at Delhi, Pune, Mumbai and Ahmedabad and an Air Quality Forecasting Model has been set up for four cities to forecast the air quality of various pollutants along with weather parameters with a lead time of 1-3 days. Established a high altitude research station in Himalaya called HIMANSH at a remote region in Spiti, Himachal Pradesh. Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Deployed India’s first multi-sensor moored sub-surface observatory (IndARC) at a water depth of ~180 m in the Arctic. India successfully commenced operations at the 3rd Indian Permanent Research Station Bharati, at Larsemann Hills, East Antarctica. Three (34th, 35th and 36th) Indian Scientific expeditions to Antarctica were launched and executed successfully. India has been accorded the Observer status in the Arctic Council in recognition of her scientific contributions endeavors in Polar research. Setting up of the National Centre for Seismology (NCS) at New Delhi to provide added thrust to seismological services in the country. The Scientific Deep Drilling Project at Koyna, Maharashtra started in 2016 with the aim of setting up of borehole observatory at 3.0 to 5.0 km depths for directly measuring parameters in the near field of earthquake. The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) provides PFZ advisories to 2.75 lakh fisherman on a daily basis to help them to easily locate the areas of abundant fish in the ocean.
Plastic Converted In to Petrol • Plastic can be converted into petrol, diesel and other hydrocarbons. CSIR-Indian Institute of Chemical Technology (IICT), Hyderabad has developed a catalyst that can be used for conversion of waste plastics to fuel oils. • CSIR-Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP), Dehradun in collaboration with GAIL (India) Ltd. has developed a process by which waste polyethylene and polypropylene type plastics can be converted into petrol and diesel. One kilogram of waste polyethylene and polypropylene can be converted to either about 600-650 ml of petrol or 700-750 ml of diesel along with LPG.
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National Biopharma Mission The National Biopharma Mission has been launched by the Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science & Technology as an Industry-Academia mission to accelerate biopharmaceutical development in India. As per the Cabinet approval, this Mission for Accelerating Discovery Research to Early Development for Biopharmaceuticals – “Innovate in India (i3)” Empowering biotech entrepreneurs & accelerating inclusive innovation will be implemented at a total cost of Rs. 1500 crore for a period of five years and 50% of the grant will be arranged through the World Bank loan. The Mission Programme of Department of Biotechnology will be implemented by Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) a Public Sector Undertaking of the Department. BIRAC as an umbrella Product Development Partnership (PDP) would facilitate this program by bringing together partners through existing frameworks for specific program goals and would facilitate this program by involving established organizations with relevant expertise in product development
The following are the objectives of the Mission: • •
Development of products from leads that are at advanced stages in the product development lifecycle and relevant to the public health. Strengthening and establishing shared infrastructure facilities for both product discovery validation and manufacturing. Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Developing human capital by providing specific training to address the critical skills gaps in researchers, nascent biotech companies across the product development value chain, including in business plan development and market penetration. Creating and enhancing technology transfer and intellectual property management capacities and capabilities in public and private sector.
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The programme will specifically focus on the development of new vaccines, bio-therapeutics, diagnostics and medical devices to better address the rising burden of diseases in the country. It will also bring isolated centres of excellence together, enhance regional capabilities and strengthen the current bio-clusters network in terms of capacities as well as quantity and quality of output. The programme will help deliver 6-10 new products in the next five years, create several dedicated facilities for next-generation skills. The program would aid in preparing India’s technological and product development capabilities in the biopharmaceutical sector to a level so that it is globally competitive. Development of Radiation Technology Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) - Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) has been engaged in R&D work on the technology of preservation and hygienization of food and agriproducts by radiation. Irradiation is very effective in treating the horticultural produces. Extension of shelf life of horticultural produces is very much depended on the produce, variety and storage conditions. For many fresh agri produce subjected to irradiation and proper storage, substantial shelf life extension has been achieved.
Unique advantages of radiation processing are: • • •
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Significant increase in shelf life for many products including fruits, vegetables, cereals, pulses, spices, sea foods and meat products. Effective elimination of harmful bacteria, viruses and insects/pests. Cold & clean process (No temperature raise or residue); and treatment done after final packaging (no repacking necessary).
BARC-DAE has set up two technology demonstration units, one commissioned in the year 2000 for high dose irradiation at Vashi, Navi Mumbai, and another in 2002, for low dose irradiation, KRUSHAK (Krushi Utpadan Sanrakshan Kendra) facility at Lasalgaon, near Nashik. The facilities are being operated by the Board of Radiation & Isotope Technology (BRIT).
Joint Project between NASA and ISRO • ISRO and NASA are working towards realisation of NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission by 2021. • In NISAR mission, NASA is responsible for development of L-band SAR and ISRO is responsible for development of S-band SAR. • The L & S band SAR will be integrated with ISRO’s spacecraft and launched on-board India’s GSLV.
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NISAR employs a futuristic SweepSAR technique, which enables very wide swath of more than 200 km and very high resolution of the order of 5-10m. The L & S band microwave data obtained from this satellite will be useful for variety of application, which include estimating agricultural biomass over full duration of crop cycle; assessing soil moisture; monitoring of floods & oil slicks; coastal erosion, coastline changes; assessment of mangroves; surface deformation studies, ice sheet dynamics etc. Desi Global Positioning System Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has deployed an indigenous regional positioning system named as “Navigation with Indian Constellation” (NavIC). It consists of seven satellites in a constellation to provide Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) services in Indian mainland and surrounding region up to 1500 Km. It provides two types of services viz. Standard Positioning Service (SPS) and Restricted Service (RS). ISRO has established the required space segment of the NavIC system for providing signal in space enabling position, navigation and timing information and it can support commercial civil applications. Mobile-Apps for navigational alerts across maritime jurisdictions is developed and tested for the Fishermen community using first generation NavIC receivers. Various types of user receivers are being developed indigenously involving Indian industry and discussions amongst government departments, user-receiver manufacturers, system integrators and service providers are taking place for the usage of NavIC system. While the space and ground segment of the NavIC system has been established and demonstrations of various applications/ services have been conducted, the time required for it to become fully operational depends on the service providers making the services available in the market. It may take couple of years to become fully operational in the market Venus Mission of ISRO The Indian Venusian orbiter mission is a proposed orbiter to Venus by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to study the atmosphere of Venus. It would be launched on or after 2020. ISRO has made the call for scientific proposals, through an Announcement of Opportunity (AO) to conduct space based experiments has been made to Indian scientists.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August Environmental Issues
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Environment Ministry Implementing Two Major Afforestation Schemes in the Country To achieve the targets mentioned in the National Forest Policy to maintain 33% forest and tree cover in the country the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEF&CC) is implementing two major afforestation/tree plantation schemes i.e. National Afforestation Programme (NAP) scheme and National Mission for a Green India (GIM). NAP is being implemented for afforestation of degraded forest lands. GIM aims at improving the quality of forest/increase in forest cover, besides cross-sectoral activities on landscape basis. The fund under Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA), is used in plantation activity including compensatory afforestation to give a massive thrust to afforestation activity in the country. Seventeen States/UTs have Imposed Complete Ban on Use of Polythene Bags As per the provisions of Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, the generators of waste have been mandated to take steps to minimize generation of plastic waste, not to litter the plastic waste, ensure segregated storage of waste at source and handover segregated waste to local bodies or agencies authorised by the local bodies. In the country, 17 States / Union Territories have imposed complete ban on manufacture, stock, sale and use of plastic carry-bags, through directions and executive orders. Further, use of plastic carry bags has been partially banned in some pilgrimage centres, tourist and historical places located in the States of Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Goa, Gujarat, Karnataka, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand. The Government has notified Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, which regulate manufacture, sale, distribution and use of plastic carry bags including carry bags of compostable plastic, and plastic sheets for packaging or wrapping applications. The use of carry bags made from conventional plastic with thickness less than 50 micron is prohibited. The use of plastic for packaging gutka, tobacco and pan masala is also prohibited. Biosphere Reserves Biosphere Reserve (BR) is an international designation by UNESCO for representative parts of natural and cultural landscapes extending over large area of terrestrial or coastal/ marine ecosystems or a combination thereof. BRs are designated to deal with one of the most important questions of reconciling the conservation of biodiversity, the quest for economic and social development and maintenance of associated cultural values. The Biosphere Reserve Programme is guided by UNESCO Man and Biosphere (MAB) programme as India is a signatory to the landscape approach supported by MAB programme. A scheme called Biosphere Reserve is being implemented by Government of India since 1986, in which financial assistance is given in 90:10 ratio to the North Eastern Region States and three Himalayan states and in the ratio of 60:40 to other states for maintenance, improvement and development of certain items.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Inter-Linking of Rivers • Under the National Perspective Plan (NPP) the National Water Development Agency (NWDA) has identified 30 links (16 under Peninsular Component & 14 under Himalayan Component) for preparation of Feasibility Reports. • Four priority links under Peninsular Rivers Component have been identified for preparation of Detailed Project Reports (DPR) viz; Ken-Betwa Link, Phase –I & II, Damanganga-Pinjal Link, Par-Tapi-Narmada link and Mahanadi-Godavari link.
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Flood Warning Centres Divisional Flood Control Rooms (DFCRs) at regional level for monitoring flood situation and issuing forecasts have been set up by Central Water Commission (CWC) which work on 24x7 basis during 1st May/ June to 31st October/ December every year. Central Flood Control Room (CFCR) has been set up at CWC HQ in New Delhi which works on 24x7 basis during 1st May to 31st December every year. CFCR monitors the flood situation at national level and also facilitates to generate three days flood advisory. The remote sensing data (Rainfall, Topography, Land-use/ Land-cover etc.) and Geographical Information System are being used in mathematical modeling for flood forecasting under flood management activity of CWC.Generation of Quantitative Precipitation Forecast (QPF) currently used at 146 river-basins of India for assessing the flood inundation scenario by CWC is at par with the global standards. The said technology is being used for Indus and its tributaries, Ganga & its tributaries, Brahmaputra & its tributaries, Barak system, Subarnarekha, Brahmani & Baitarani, Narmada, Tapi, Mahi, Sabarmati, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, West flowing rivers Kutch, Saurashtra and Tapi to Tadri, Cauvery and its tributaries, Pennar and East flowing rivers Mahanadi to Pennar and Pennar to Kanyakumari. In order to meet specific requirements of flood forecasting, which is provided by Central Water Commission, India Meteorological Department (IMD) operates Flood Meteorological Offices (FMOs) at thirteen locations viz., Agra, Ahmedabad, Asansol, Bhubaneshwar, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jalpaiguri, Lucknow, New Delhi, Patna, Srinagar, Bangaluru and Chennai.
Steps to Promote use of clean fuels in Indian Railways Railways are taking the following steps to promote use of clean fuels and reduce carbon emissions: • • • • • • •
Use of B5 (5% Bio-Diesel) blends of bio diesel in the diesel locomotives. Use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) based dual fuel system on DEMU trains to achieve 20% substitution of Diesel with gas. Development of CNG based dual fuel system with 40% substitution of diesel for high economy and environmental benefit. Process to establish two bio diesel manufacturing plants with 30 Ton Per Day (TPD) capacity owned by Railways. Promote use of LNG/CNG as environment friendly industrial gas in place of Liquid Petroleum Gas (LPG) and Acetylene in Railway workshops. Promote and install roof top based solar power generation system in railways workshops and production units. Railways are installing solar and wind power plants mostly through developer mode wherein investment will be made by the developer and Railways will procure power on long term Power Purchase Agreement (PPA). Created with by ForumIAS.com – The Knowledge Network for Civil Services. Visit http//forumias.com New! http://forumiasacademy – Prelims & Mains Test Series
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August
Environment Ministry launches ‘Gaj Yatra’ to mark World Elephant Day 2017 World Elephant Day is an annual global event celebrated across the world on August 12, dedicated to the preservation and protection of elephants. The goal of World Elephant Day is to create awareness about the plight of elephants and to share knowledge and positive solutions for the better care and management of captive and wild elephants. African elephants are listed as “vulnerable” and Asian elephants as “endangered” in the IUCN Red List of threatened species. As per the available population estimates, there are about 400,000 African elephants and 40,000 Asian elephants. The elephant is part of India’s animal heritage and the Government celebrates this day to spread awareness about the conservation of the species. World Elephant Day was conceived in 2011 by Canadian filmmakers Ms. Patricia Sims and Mr. Michael Clark of Canazwest Pictures and the Secretary- General of the Elephant Reintroduction Foundation of Thailand.
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August International Relations
Boosting Trade ties with Africa Various steps have been taken by Government to enhance trade and commercial relations with African countries. • •
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The 4th India-Africa Trade Ministers’ Meeting was organized in New Delhi on 23rd October, 2015. Negotiations to enter into Free Trade Agreement with the Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA), a Regional Economic Community in Africa, Preferential Trade Agreement with the South African Customs Union (SACU) and a Comprehensive Economic Co-operation Partnership Agreement (CECPA) with Mauritius are in progress. Promotional events like Trade fairs/Conclave/Buyer Seller Meet are also organized regularly in African countries and India under the Market Access Initiative (MAI) Scheme with a view to diversify and boost exports to Africa. Bilateral trade between India and African countries are reviewed regularly, including through bilateral mechanisms like of Joint Trade Committee Meetings and Joint Commission Meetings.
First meeting of Japan-India Coordination Forum (JICF) for Development of North-Eastern Region held • Japan-India Coordination Forum (JICF) for Development of North-Eastern Region has been formed Priority areas of cooperation identified by Indian side including Connectivity and Road Network Development, especially inter-State roads & major district roads; Disaster Management; Food Processing; Organic Farming and Tourism were discussed in the meeting. •
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Public Information Bureau (PIB) Compilation August Trivia
The North-Eastern region, with eight percent of India's land area, contains one-third of the country's water resources. 2. At present in India, there are 42 operational satellites in orbit comprising of 18 Earth observation (including meteorological), 15 communication, 7 navigational and 2 Space Science satellites. 26 satellites are currently under various stages of realisation. 3. ISARC- International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) South Asia Regional Center (ISARC) is to be established at campus of National Seed Research and Training Center (NSRTC) in Varanasi 4. A Spice Park at Nizamabad for turmeric and Spice Development Agency (SDA) for Telangana having headquarters at Warangal are being set up for research, production, marketing, quality improvement and export of spices, including chilli and turmeric. 5. The 7th Meeting of BRICS Trade Ministers was held in Shanghai on August 1 and 2. 6. By the end of 2016 the number of internet subscribers in India was 391.50 million making India globally the 2nd highest in terms of internet users. 7. The System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting And Research (SAFAR) system has been developed and deployed at Delhi, Pune, Mumbai and Ahmedabad and an Air Quality Forecasting Model has been set up for four cities to forecast the air quality of various pollutants along with weather parameters with a lead time of 1-3 days. 8. National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI) and Center of Innovative and Applied Bioprocessing (CIAB) established at Mohali under the administrative control of Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology. 9. First Grameen Marathon for the youth of rural regions in Delhi organized by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports. 10. India and US to co-host the Global Entrepreneurship Summit at Hyderabad in November 2017. 11. Bharat Parikrama Padyatra - undertaken by Shri Sitaram Kedilaya took 5 years to complete, he visited 9000 villages in the journey. 12. Prasoon Joshi is appointed as Chairperson of the Central Board of Film Certification in an honorary capacity for a period of three years or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
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