January 2020 Rs 45/€¦ · chapatis, rice, dal and seasonal vegetable, all for Rs 10. 10,000 cameras to be used in Gujarat Lion Census, 2020 The Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

IBPS-RRB, SBI, RBI, Railways, SSC, KAS, PSI, PC Etc January - 2020 Rs 45/-

Achiever’s Academy Shivamogga Contact: 7812926702

Dear Readers,

This Monthly Magazine is a complete docket of important news and events that occurred

in a month of January .We have compiled important & Expected which can be asked

in upcoming, IBPS- Clerk Mains, SBI, Other Banking, Railways, SSC Exams,

interviews and all upcoming Competitive Exams.

Join Our Telegram Group

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SL NO. CONTENTS

1 NATIONAL NEWS

2 INTERNATIONAL NEWS

3 NEW APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNS

4 BANKING AWARENESS

5 AWARDS & HONOURS

6 RANKS & REPORTS

7 SCHEMES & APPS

8 DEFENCE, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

9 IMPORTANT DAYS & EVENTS

10 BUSINESS & MOUS

11 BOOKS & AUTHORS

12 SPORTS NEWS

13 OBITUARIES

https://t.me/studykitA2Z


National News NITI Aayog releases SDG India Index and Dashboard 2019

NITI Aayog has released the 2nd edition of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) India

Index. According to the SDG India Index, India‘s composite score has improved from 57 in 2018 to 60

in 2019.

Classification criteria based on SDG India Indexscore is as follows:

Aspirant: having score in the range of 0–49.

Performer: having score in the range of 50–64.

Front Runner: having score in the range of 65–99.

Achiever: having score in the range of 100.

Bengaluru will host the 107th edition of the Indian Science Congress

Bengaluru will host the 107th edition of the Indian Science Congress. It will be the ninth time the city

will host the annual convention. University of Agricultural Sciences (UAS), Bengaluru will host the

event.

The congress has chosen ‗science and technology: rural development‘ as its theme for the 107th

edition. A Farmer‘s Science Congress will take part in it for the first time, hence providing a platform

for innovative farmers.

There will also be a ‗Women‘s Science Congress‘, ‗Children‘s Science Congress‘, ‗Science

Communicator‘s Meet‘, and ‗Science Exhibition: Pride of India‘.

Political Parties Registration Tracking Management System launched by EC

The Election Commission of India has launched a Political Parties Registration Tracking

Management System (PPRTMS). The system enables the applicants to track the status of

the applications for the party registration.

The Commission has also amended the guidelines for registration which came into force

from 1st January 2020.

Kerala became 1st State to pass resolution against citizenship Amendment Act

On December 31, 2019, the state govt. of Kerala became the 1st state in the country to pass

a resolution scrapping the Citizenship Amendment Act, 2019 (CAA).

Government creates new Department of military affairs headed by Bipin Rawat


On December 30, 2019, the government has created a new ‗Department of Military affairs (DMA)‘ in

the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to be headed by Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Bipin Rawat.

The DMA is the 5th department in the Ministry of Defence (MoD) and was created after a change

in Government of India (Allocation of Business), Rules 1961.

Centre sets up 7-member GoM led by Rajnath singh to review crop insurance scheme-PMFBY

On December 28, 2019, The central Government has formed a 7-member group of ministers (GoM)

headed by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh to review the crop insurance scheme ,―Pradhan Mantri

Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)‖ & make suggestions to improve it according to the needs of the

farmers.

Pragati Maidan metro station renamed as Supreme Court metro station in New Delhi

On 31st December 2019, The Delhi Government‘s renaming committee has renamed Pragati Maidan

metro station as Supreme Court metro station. The demand was made by the Supreme court in

September 2019.

For the 1st time, Vizag (Andhra Pradesh) to host 14

th Global healthcare summit in 2021

On December 31, 2019, The American Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (AAPI), a

professional association for Indian American physicians, is set to organize a 3-days long 14th

Global

Healthcare Summit (GHS) in Visakhapatnam,Andhra Pradesh(AP) from January 3, 2021 for the

1st time.

UPSRTC launched ‗Damini‘ helpline service for women in Uttar Pradesh

On December 31, 2019 UPSRTC (Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation) has

launched ‗Damini‘ helpline service considering the safety of the women passengers in Uttar Pradesh

(UP).

On November 2019, web portal and e-Ganna app was launched for the sugarcane farmers by the Chief

Minister of UP.

28 UIDAI-run Aadhaar Seva Kendras operational across the country

The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has opened 28 Aadhaar Seva

Kendras (ASK) as part of its plan to open 114 stand-alone Aadhaar Enrolments & Update

Centres across the country.

PM to distribute Krishi Karman Awards and 3rd installment of Rs 2000 to 6 crore beneficiaries

under PM KISAN


The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi will distribute Krishi Karman Awards and

Commendation Awards to states at a public meeting in Tumkur Karnataka on 1.2020. He

will also give away Agriculture Minister‘s Krishi Karman Awards for Progressive Farmers.

The event will also witness the release of the 3rd installment of PM Kisan (Pradhan Mantri

Kisan Samman Nidhi) of Rs 2000 for the period December 2019-March 2020.

Government launches web portal to block stolen, lost mobile phones

The government has launched a web portal, ‗Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR)‘, to

facilitate blocking and tracing of stolen,lost mobile phones in Delhi.

11-day long ‗Dhanu Jatra‘ begins at Bargarh in western Odisha

The famous 11-day long ‗Dhanu Jatra‘, considered as the largest open-air theatre of the world begins

at Bargarh in western Odisha. The Jatra is based on the mythological story of Lord Krishna and his

demon uncle King Kansa.

Festivals celebrated in Odisha

Rath Yatra, it is also called as Chariot Festival. This festival is generally held in months of June or

July. Pilgrims from all over the world come to visit this festival which commences in the month of

Jyestha on a full moon day.

Konark Dance Festival is a five-day celebration starting from 1st December till 5th December.

Khattar launches Atal Canteen in Karnal

Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar inaugurated the state‘s first Atal Kisan-Mazdoor

canteens at the Karnal grain market.

At this canteen, farmers and labourers coming to the mandi will get a Veg-thali comprising four

chapatis, rice, dal and seasonal vegetable, all for Rs 10.

10,000 cameras to be used in Gujarat Lion Census, 2020

The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is to conduct Asiatic Lion Census in May 2020. The Institute

will use 10,000 cameras to conduct the census.In 2015, the WII counted 523 lions in Gujarat.


Railways renames RPF as Indian Railway Protection Force Service

The Indian Railways has renamed its security force RPF (Railway Protection Force) as Indian

Railway Protection Force Service.

The ministry has accorded organised Group A status to RPF and renamed it.The Railway Protection

Force (RPF) is a security force, enacted by the Indian Parliament for ―the better protection and

security of railway property‖.

‗Lai Haraoba‘ ritualistic festival begins in Tripura

In Tripura, Lai Haraoba, a ritualistic festival observed by Manipuri meitei communities began in

Agartala.The 5-day long festival is jointly organised by the Department of Information and Cultural

Affairs, Government of Tripura, Puthiba Lai Haraoba Committee and Puthiba Welfare & Cultural

Society, Agartala.

28th World Book Fair to focus on Gandhi as writer

The annual New Delhi World Book Fair, in its 28th edition, will focus on how Mahatma Gandhi

influenced generations of writers through his writings.The fair, organised by the National Book Trust

(NBT) in association with ITPO, will be inaugurated by Union Human Resource Development (HRD)

Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank.

The theme for World Book Fair 2020 is ‗Gandhi: The Writers‘ Writer.

Gujarat CM unveiled world‘s 2nd tallest statue of Vallabhbhai Patel in Ahmedabad

On January 3, 2020 the Chief Minister of Gujarat Shri Vijay Ramniklal Rupani unveiled the

world‘s 2nd largest statue of Sardar vallabhbhai Patel at Sardardham campus near Vaishnodevi

circle in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. This bronze statue which is 50 feet tall weighing 70,000 kilograms was

built at a cost of Rs 3.25 crores.

‗K-RERA‘ launched in Kerala to bring transparency in real estate sector

On January 1, 2020, the Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan launched K-RERA (Kerala Real

Estate Regulatory Authority) to bring confidence and transparency in real estate sectors among the

customers.

Delhi gets First 20-feet-tall Smog Tower to Help Tackle Rising Levels of Air Pollution at Lajpat

Nagar

Delhi gets its first 20-ft tall smog tower, which is used to purify the air, has been installed at south

Delhi‘s Lajpat Nagar market. It can remove up to 80% of the particulate matter (PM 2.5 and PM10)


Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurates new campus of NFSC in Nagpur

Union Home Minister Amit Shah dedicated the new campus of National Fire Service College (NFSC)

under Ministry of Home affairs. Mr Shah stated, NFSC campus spread across 42 acres is fully equipped

with the international standards.

Bhubaneswar civic body launches ‗Go Green‘ campaign

The Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation launched a campaign to sensitize citizens on the

protection of the environment and encourage exchange eco-friendly gifts this new year.

The ‗Go Green‘ campaign was carried out in five different places in the city where municipal

officials distributed saplings, books and cotton bags.

MEA sets up new emerging and strategic technologies (NEST)

The External affairs ministry announced the setting up of new emerging and strategic technologies

(NEST) division.

The division will work to increase investment coordination among the states of the country and also with

the foreign countries.

‗Cyber Safe Women‘ initiative launched by Maharashtra Govt

Maharashtra Government has launched a ‗Cyber Safe Women‘ initiative under which awareness

camps will be held across all the districts of the state regarding cyber safety.The initiative will help in

educating women about how the web is used by anti-social elements and child predators to commit

various types of crimes.

KVIC opens 1st silk processing plant in Gujarat

The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) opened its first ―Patola Saree‖ silk

processing plant at Surendranagar in Gujarat.The aim of the plant is to make silk readily available to

Patola saree manufacturers to boost its production.

Patola is the trademark saree of Gujarat.

Overview of PM Modi‘s 2-day visit to Karnataka

The Prime Minister of India Shri Narendra Modi paid a 2 day visit to the state of Karnataka from

January 2-3, 2019 to attend events in Tumakuru and Bengaluru cities of the state. He arrived at the

Yelahanka air base, Bengaluru.


Prime Minister was inaugurating the 107th Indian Science Congress (ISC) at the University of

Agricultural Sciences (UAS) in Bengaluru. The theme of ISC for the year 2020 was ―Science and

Technology: Rural Development‖.

1st of-its kind turtle rehab centre comes up in Bihar

A 1st of its kind rehabilitation centre for freshwater turtles is to be inaugurated in January 2020 in

the Bhagalpur forest division of Bihar.

ISRO sets its fourth RAC-S in Karnataka

On January 3, 2020 Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) sets its fourth Regional Academic

Centre for Space (RAC-S) at the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NIT-K) at Surathkal

in Mangaluru taluk.

Telangana govt declares 2020 as AI year, signs 8 MoU

Telangana state government declared 2020 as the year of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and

signed eight Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) with various companies and educational

institutes to pave way for upcoming technological advancement in the state.

HRD Minister to inaugurate 28th edition of World Book Fair

Union Minister for Human Resources Development Ramesh Pokhriyal will inaugurate

the 28th edition of annual New Delhi World Book Fair at Pragati Maidan in New Delhi.

The book fair organized by National Book Trust will be held till 12th of this month in the national

capital.

As part of Mahatma Gandhiji‘s 150th Birth Anniversary celebrations, the theme of this fair

is Gandhi:The Writers‘ Writer.

Women Science Congress begins in Bengaluru

The Women Science Congress was inaugurated at the ongoing Indian Science Congress in Bengaluru.

DRDO Aeronautical Systems Director-General Dr Tessy Thomas who is known as Missile Woman of

India graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

Eight States finalized Agriculture Export Policy by the Government of India


On January 5, 2020, As per Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development

Authority (APEDA), eight states namely Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Kerala, Nagaland, Tamil Nadu,

Assam, Punjab, and Karnataka finalized an action plan for Agriculture Export Policy (AEP) to

enhance exports.

Chandigarh railway station is fifth in the country and first in North India to inaugurate

Navigation facilities for visually impaired

On January 5, 2020 Navigation facilities for visually impaired was inaugurated in Chandigarh railway

station in Mohali, Punjab by Shri Gurinder Mohan Singh, Divisional Railway Manager- Ambala

Division.

It was developed by Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation (IRSDC) and Makemytrip

Foundation through NGO (Non-government organization) ‗Anuprayaas‘.

2019 Forest Survey of India report: one-fifth (21.40%) of India‘s forests prone to fires

According to a 2019 report by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) which was based on a study carried out

along forest fire points (FFP) identified across the country from 2004 to 2017, about 21.40% of forest

cover of the country has been prone to fires.

Highest fire alerted state: Mizoram topped among all the states with the highest number of fire alerts

at 2,795.

Amit Shah to head group of ministers to examine the proposed National Tariff Policy

On January 05, 2020 the minister of Home Affairs (MoHA) Shri Amit Shah will head the Group of

Ministers (GOM) to discuss and examine the proposed National Tariff Policy 2016.

PayPal India launches adoption assistance programme for employees

On January 3, 2020, In order to promote parental support benefits for employees, online digital

payments player, PayPal India Private Limited has launched a new Adoption Assistance Program,

where it will be offering financial assistance of up to Rs 1 lakh per adoption for the parents.

Indian batsman Rohit Sharma lays foundation of International cricket stadium in Hyderabad,

Telangana

On January 3, 2020, India‘s cricket batsman, Rohit Gurunath Sharma has laid the foundation of

the Cricket Stadium and Training Center at ‗Heartfulness Institute‘s headquarters in Hyderabad,

Telangana. The cricket stadium has been named as ―Rohit Sharma Cricket stadium‖ by spiritual guru

Kamlesh Patel.

Kochi to host global meet on marine ecosystem


Eminent marine scientists, oceanographers, fisheries researchers and marine biotechnologists from

across the globe are expected to participate in the third international symposium on marine

ecosystems – challenges and opportunities (MECOS-3) in Kochi from January 7 to 10.

Javadekar to confer first ‗Antarrashtriya Yoga Diwas Media Samman‘ to 30 media houses

Information and Broadcasting Minister Prakash Javadekar will confer the first ‗Antarrashtriya Yoga

Diwas Media Samman‘ to 30 media houses in New Delhi.

Union Minister of Commerce and Industries inaugurates NSE Knowledge Hub

The Union Minister of Commerce and Industries inaugurated the National Stock Exchange (NSE)

Knowledge Hub in New Delhi. The National Stock Exchange (NSE) Knowledge Hub is an Artificial

Intelligence (AI) powered learning ecosystem that will assist the banking, financial services and

insurance (BFSI) sector.

Bhubaneswar to host 1st edition of Khelo India University Games

The 1st edition of Khelo India University Games is scheduled to be held at the KIIT University

in Bhubaneswar, Odisha from February 22 to March 1, 2020.

Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju and Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik unveiled the logo and

jersey of Khelo India University Games.

Challakere to be ISRO‘s astronaut training hub

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has proposed Human Space Flight Centre

(HSFC) at Challakere in Chitradurga district of Karnataka.

The facility is expected to become operational in 3 years.

Kochi to host Global Investors Meet: ASCEND 2020

Kochi, Kerala will host the Global Investors Meet: ASCEND 2020. ASCEND 2020 will showcase 18

mega projects with over Rs 100 crore investment each and offering direct employment to over 9,000

people. The meet will be organised by the Industries Department. The Invest Kerala Portal:

―invest.kerala.gov.in‖ will also be showcased at the meet.

Rajnath Singh inaugurates National Traders Convention in Delhi

Defence Minister inaugurated the National Traders Convention at Ramlila Maidan, Delhi.


The convention has been organised by Confederation of All India Traders and will deliberate upon

various issues concerning traders, including ―onslaught of e-commerce companies on retail trade by

their malpractices and violation of FDI policy‖.

CISF to observe 2020 as ‗year of mobility‘

The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) will observe 2020 as the ‗year of mobility‘ that will

have a special focus on the creation of more residential units and implementation of various welfare

measures for the troops.

Mizoram set to organize 1st edition of Zo kutpui festival 2020 in 10 states & US, Myanmar,

Bangladesh

In a bid to unify different tribes of Mizo community, the state Government of Mizoram will organize

the 1st edition of Zo Kutpui festival 2020 across 10 states in India & also in countries such as

Maryland in the US (United States), Tahan in Myanmar and Bangladesh from January 9, 2020.

Kolkata Police started 3rd edition of ‗Sukanya‘ project

On January 06, 2020, the Kolkata police of West Bengal started the 3rd edition of the ‗Sukanya‘

project in the state. The project provides self- defence training to girls studying in school and colleges

of Kolkata city.

4th

Buxa bird festival 2020 commenced in West Bengal

On January 7, 2020, A 3-day long 4th

edition of the Buxa Bird Festival 2020 has begun in Buxa

National Park in the Alipurduar district of West Bengal(WB).

West Bengal Govt to provide insurance coverage of Rs 5 lakh to Ganga Sagar pilgrims

The West Bengal Government will provide insurance coverage of five lakh rupees each to the Ganga

Sagar pilgrims.

31st International Kite Festival begins in Ahmedabad

The 31st International Kite Festival has been launched at Sabarmati river front

in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.Ahmedabad is hosting this festival since 1989.

Vikram Sarabhai Children Innovation Center to be set up in Gujarat

The Vikram Sarabhai Children Innovation Center (VSCIC) will be set up in Gujarat.The Vikram

Sarabhai Children Innovation Center (VSCIC) will identify, nurture and promote innovative


abilities of children in the state.The above announcement was made during the Children‘s Innovation

Festival (CIF) taking place in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

Indian High Commission organizes ―Art Exhibition‖ in Bangladesh

The Indian High Commission has organized the ―Art Exhibition‖ in Dhaka, Bangladesh.The ―Art

Exhibition‖ has been organized to commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

India hosts 5th Asia Pacific drosophila research conference in Pune

The 5th edition of the Asia Pacific Drosophila Research Conference (APDRC5) held in Pune,

Maharashtra.The conference is being conducted in India for the 1st time.

It is organised by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER).

2nd National GST Conference to streamline GST system held in New Delhi

On January 07, 2020 the 2nd edition of the National GST Conference of the Commissioners of State

Tax and Chief Commissioners of Central Tax was held in New Delhi under the chairmanship of Dr Ajay

Bhushan Pandey, Revenue Secretary of the Ministry of Finance(MoF).

J&K registers highest Inpatient Department (IPD) care in the country

On January 7, 2020 Jammu and Kashmir (J&K),Union territory of India has registered

the highest Inpatient Department, IPD care in the country.

BMC declares ODF++ status for Bhubaneswar

A day before commencement of Swachh Survekshan-2020, the Bhubaneswar Municipal Corporation

(BMC) on declared the Capital an open defecation-free (ODF) ++ city.

BMC Administrator and Director of Municipal Administration Sangramjit Nayak stated the ODF++

status will be open for third party verification following the declaration

CCEA approves disinvestment of 4 CPSEs & 2 State PSUs in NINL

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given its ‗in principle‘ approval for

strategic disinvestment of 4 Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) & 2 Odisha

State PSUs in Neelachal Ispat Nigam Limited (NINL).

NINL is a Joint Venture company in which 4 CPSEs & 2 State PSUs have equity

shareholding.

The 4 CPSEs includes Minerals & Metals Trading Corporation (MMTC), MECON, Bharat

Heavy Electricals (BHEL) and National Mineral Development Corporation (NMDC).


Institutions at GAU to get status of Institution of National Importance

The union cabinet granted the approval making the status of Institution of National Importance to a

cluster of Ayurvedic institutions at Gujarat Ayurved University in Jamnagar.

With the (INI) status, Jamnagar Ayurveda University will become the first Ayurveda institute to join the

ranks of the IIT‘s and AIIMS.

Maharashtra CM to inaugrates ―Advantage Maharashtra expo 2020‖

Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray will inaugurate ―Advantage Maharashtra expo

2020‖ in Aurangabad.

The Exhibition has been organised by the Marathwada Association of Small Scale

Industries and Agriculture (MASSIA).

Eight North-Eastern states to celebrate Madhavpur Mela in Gujarat on 2nd April 2020

On January 8, 2020 in New Delhi Dr Jitendra Singh, Union Minister of State for Development of

North Eastern Region (DoNER) chaired a high- level meeting for the preparation of the annual

festival Madhavpur Mela of Gujarat which will be held at Madhavpur Ghed in Porbandar district of

Gujarat on 2nd April 2020.

Indian Railways to installs IP based Video Surveillance System and AI based Face recognition

systems in stations

On January 8, 2020 Face recognition technology developed using Artificial Intelligence (IP) has been

installed in Bengaluru, Manmad and Bhusawal stations as test cases. The objective of the Railway

Protection Force (RPF) is to link the facial recognition system with existing databases and identify the

criminals.

Centre notifies new Wetland Conservation Rules

Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has notified the new Wetland Conservation

Rules which prohibit setting up or expansion of industries and disposal of construction and demolition

waste within the wetlands.

CCEA approves strategic disinvestment of 49.78 per cent equity shareholding of MMTC

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, CCEA has given in-principle approval for the

sale of equity held by four Central Public Sector Enterprises and two-state PSUs in Neelachal

Ispat Nigam Limited-NINL.


ITTF executive committee meeting to be held in New Delhi

New Delhi will host the two-day Executive Committee meeting of the International Table

Tennis Federation (ITTF) beginning January 10th.

Famous chariot festival of Tamil Nadu Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple begins

The famous chariot festival of the Suchindram Thanumalayan Temple in Tamilnadu begins.This

17th-century temple is famous for its architectural grandeur.The temple is especially significant because

it is sacred to both the Shaivite as well as Vashnavite sects.

South Asian Trade and Travel Exchange Expo 2020 held in New Delhi

The 27th edition of South Asian Trade and Travel Exchange Expo (SATTE) 2020 was held in New

Delhi.The SATTE expo was supported by Ministry of Tourism, Government of India

and sponsored by Jammu & Kashmir Tourism Department.

Works on laying of submarine cables between Chennai-A&N Islands inaugurates

Union Minister for Communications, Electronics and Information Technology Ravi Shankar

Prasad inaugurated the submarine cable works on laying between Chennai – Andaman and Nicobar

Islands.

The submarine cables will be initially laid from Chennai to Port Blair covering a distance of 1,450

kilometres.

4 Indian airports received international recognition for reducing emissions as per ACI

On January 10, 2020 the Airports Authority of India(AAI) has announced that 4 Indian airports have

received international recognition for reducing the carbon emission level as per the standards set by

Airports Council International (ACI) for the grading. The 4 airports are as follows:

Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (West Bengal)

Biju Patnaik International Airport (Odisha)

Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport (Uttar Pradesh)

Trivandrum International Airport (Kerala)

1st Solar section in South Central Railways comes up in Nandyal-Yerraguntla section in Guntakal

division of Andhra


On January 9, 2020 the Nandyal-Yerraguntla section in Guntakal Division of Andhra Pradesh has

been declared as the first solar section in South Central Railway. In 2016 August Indian Railways

opened Nandyal-Yerraguntla section in Kadapa district of Andhra Pradesh.

Chenab bridge: World‘s highest rail bridge by Indian Railways to connect Kashmir to rest of

India by 2021

On January 9,2020 Government of India set a new deadline for the completion of the world‘s highest

railway bridge- Chenab bridge. Kashmir will be connected to the rest of India by Indian railways by

December 2021. Konkan railway is the implementing agency of this project.

The Chenab bridge will be 35m taller than the Eiffel Tower in Paris,France.

Forest Committee approves Green Credit Scheme to ‗trade‘ in forests

On January 09, 2020 the Forest Advisory Committee (FAC) which is an apex body that considers

questions on the diversion of forest land for non-forest uses such as mining, industrial projects,

townships etc and also issues granting of forest clearances has approved Green Credit Scheme that

would allow forests to be traded as a commodity.

5th

edition of ‗The pulses conclave 2020‘ will be held in Lonavala, Maharashtra

India Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA), the apex organisation of the import and export trader of

pulses and grains in India will host the 5th

edition of its biennial conference, ‗The Pulses Conclave

2020‘ from February 12 – 14, 2020 at the Aamby Valley City in Lonavala, Maharashtra.

Union Power Minister RK Singh released 2nd State Energy Efficiency Index 2019 in New Delhi

On January 09, 2020 the Minister of State (MoS- Independent Charge) for Power and New &

Renewable Energy who is also MoS for Skill Development & Entrepreneurship Shri Raj Kumar

Singh has released the State Energy Efficiency Index 2019 in New Delhi.


Index development: The index was released during RPM (Review, Planning and Monitoring) meeting

in New Delhi and was developed by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in association with

Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE).

Front Runner: No States/UTs were listed in the frontrunner category.

Achiever: The states and UTs listed under Achiever categories were Haryana, Kerala and

Karnataka, thus making the total count to 3.

Contender: The states and UTs listed under contender categories were Punjab, Uttar

Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh,Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu

Uttar Pradesh government announced to build a 121-acre zoo named after Ashfaqullah Khan

On January 8,2020 The Uttar Pradesh Cabinet has approved a proposal to set aside Rs.234 crore for a

zoological garden spread across 121 acres in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh to be named after the

freedom fighter and revolutionary Shaheed Ashfaqullah Khan.

Govt. to encourage Indian pompano cultivation in the country

On January 09, 2020 the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) in Visakhapatnam,

Andhra Pradesh(AP) has successfully cultivated Indian pompano- marine fish species in a

brackishwater pond (low salinity)in the region, thus scientifically proving its commercial viability.

Kashmir to be connected with rest of India through rail by December 2021

Kashmir will be connected to rest of the country through Railway network by December next year as

the government has set a fresh deadline for completion of the world‘s highest Railway bridge.

Kerala‘s Chief Minister launches website for NRK‘s investment

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has launched the website of Overseas Keralites Investment and

Holding Ltd, set up by the State Government to attract investment from the Non-Resident Keralites

(NRK).

‗Pariksha Pe Charcha 2020‘ to be held on 20th Jan

The third edition of Prime Minister‘s Interaction with school students, ―Pariksha Pe Charcha

2020‖, will be held at Talkatora Stadium in New Delhi on 20th of this month.


Over 2000 students, parents and teachers will be participating from all over India in this event.

DBT funds a biotech-kisan hub at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University

The Department of Biotechnology in the Union Ministry of Science and Technology has provided funds

to Coimbatore-based Tamil Nadu Agricultural University to set up a biotechnology-KISAN

hub under its farmers-centric mission Biotech-Krishi Innovation Science Application Network

(Biotech-KISAN) programe to link India‘s farmers with Indian and global best in science.

―Paperless Licensing Process‖ launched for Petroleum Road Tankers

The ―Paperless Licensing Process‖ has been launched by the Department for Promotion of Industry

and Internal Trade (DPIIT), for Petroleum Road Tankers.

DPIIT has launched the process through Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO). The

process has been launched under the Petroleum Rules, 2002.

Union Home Minister inaugurates I4C & National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal

Union Home Minister has inaugurated the National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and Indian

Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) located in New Delhi.

The National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal is a citizen centric vision which enables people to report

cyber crimes online.

IEA launched 1st in-depth review of India 2020 energy policy review in New Delhi

On January 10,2020 the International Energy Agency (IEA) in partnership with NITI (National

Institution for Transforming India) Aayog has released the first in-depth review of India‘s energy

policies 2020.

‗Wings India 2020‘ to be held at Begumpet Airport of Telangana in March 2020

Wings India 2020, an international exhibition and conference on civil aviation sector, will be held

at Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad, Telangana from March 12-15, 2020. The theme of the event is

―Flying for all‖.

Mangaluru Junction railway facility gets IMS certification


The Carriage and Wagon Depot at Mangaluru Junction railway station, which is capable

of examining freight train formations for rail worthiness, has obtained Integrated

Management System (IMS)

23rd National Youth Festival-2020 to be organized from 12th to 16th January, 2020

Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and State Government of Uttar Pradesh are jointly

organizing 23rd

National Youth Festival (NYF) 2020 at Indira Pratishthan, Lucknow from 12th to

16th January, 2020.

The theme of the 23rd National Youth Festival 2020 is‗FIT YOUTH FIT INDIA‘ in pursuance of the

goal of Hon‘ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi for New India to be a fit India.

5th edition of The Pulses Conclave to be held in Maharashtra

India Pulses and Grains Association (IPGA), the nodal body for India‘s pulses trade &

industry announced that the 5th edition The Pulses Conclave, their biennial global pulses

conference will be held from 12th to 14th February, 2020 at Amby Valley City in Lonavala,

Maharashtra.

Kolkata Port Trust renamed as Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Port

Kolkata Port Trust was renamed as Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Port on the occasion of 150th years

celebration of Kolkata Port Trust. The event was also attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He

dedicated a Commemorative Stamp to mark 150 years of Kolkata port trust to India.

India‘s 1st Cyber Crime Prevention Unit launched in Gujarat

Amit Shah, the Union Home Minister launched the first Cyber Crime Prevention Unit of India

―AASHVAST‖ in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. He also launched 2 other projects: VISWAS & Netrang.

AASHVAST project will act as a helpline for the cyber crime victims.

Overview of Prime Minister Modi‘s 2 day official visit to Kolkata,West Bengal

The Prime Minister(PM) of India shri Narendra Modi paid a two-day official visit to Kolkata, West

Bengal from January 11-12, 2020. The visit in detail are as follows:


Shri Modi renamed Kolkata Port as Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Port on the occasion

of sesquicentenary (150th year) celebrations of the Kolkata Port Trust (KoPT).

Rs.600 crore projects: During the occasion projects worth Rs.600 crores were launched.

Oldest pensioners of port honoured: Two oldest pensioner of the port Smt. Nagina

Bhagat(105 years) and Mr. Naresh Chandra Chakraborty (100 years) were honoured at

the event.

Indian embassy in Nepal celebrates Vishwa Hindi Diwas ; launches Nepali translation of Swami

Vivekananda‘s ‗Karma Yoga‘

In order to mark the event of Vishwa Hindi Diwas on January 10, 2020, the Indian Embassy in

Kathmandu, Nepal has launched 4 books including Nepali translation of Swami Vivekananda‘s

‗Karma Yoga‗ (Publisher -Advaita Ashrama).

Shri Nitin Gadkari inaugurated 31st Road Safety Campaign in Nagpur, Maharashtra

On January 11,2020 Transport department in Maharashtra observed 31st Road Safety Week from 11th-

17th Jan 2020. Union transport Minister Nitin Jairam Gadkari inaugurated 31st Road Safety Campaign

organised by Regional Transport Office, Traffic Police and District Road Safety Committee in Nagpur,

Maharashtra.

Lohri, a harvest Festival of North India is celebrated in January 13 The festival of harvest, Lohri is being celebrated on January 13 every year in North India, especially in

Punjab, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Delhi, Jammu and Chandigarh.

UK-based Big Innovation Centre opens office in Hyderabad

Big Innovation Centre (BIC), headquartered in the United Kingdom, which provides research and

consulting services for the corporate, public institutes to address economic challenges and innovation

capabilities, has opened its India office

Sardar Patel‘s Statue of Unity place in ‗8 Wonders of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation‘

Sardar Patel‘s 182 meter tall Statue of Unity in Gujarat included in the Shanghai Cooperation

Organisation‘s ‗8 Wonders of SCO‘ list. S Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister has announced today.

Amit Shah chaired 6th IDA meeting in New Delhi; 26 islands identified to promote tourism


On January 13, 2020 the Union Minister of Home Affairs (MoHA) Shri Amit Shah chaired

the 6th meeting of Island Development Agency (IDA) in New Delhi. During the meeting progress

made towards ―Holistic development of islands‖ were reviewed.

11-member panel headed by K. Rajeswara Rao to chair royalty rate issues on minerals

On January 13, 2020 the centre has decided to set up an 11-member panel that will look into the issues

related to revision of royalty rates for minerals (other than coal, lignite, sand for stowing and minor

minerals). The panel will be headed by additional secretary of the mines ministry Dr. K. Rajeswara

Rao.

India‘s under-5 mortality of girls exceeds that of boys: UN Child Mortality report

On January 12, 2020, the United Nations(UN) inter agency group for child mortality has produced a

report titled ―Levels and Trends in Child Mortality‖. As per this report India is among 5 countries where

in 2018, the mortality of girls under the age of 5 exceeds that of the boys. Half of all under-5 deaths in

2018 occurred in the following five countries: India, Nigeria, Pakistan, the Democratic Republic of the

Congo(DRC) and Ethiopia.

Govt launches Integrated Road Accident Database (IRAD) developed by IIT-Madras

On January 13, 2020, Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways and MSMEs(Ministry of Micro,

Small and Medium Enterprises) Shri Nitin Gadkari & Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh have

jointly launched an IT (Information Technology) tool ―Integrated Road Accident Database

(IRAD)‖ developed by the Indian Institute of Technology–Madras (IIT-M) that will help in proper

monitoring and accurate analysis of road accidents.

It was launched during ‗Road Safety Stakeholders‘ Meet held in New Delhi.

Captain Tania Shergill to become first woman parade adjutant for Republic Day parade of 2020

On 13th

January 2020, Captain Tania Shergill, an officer with Army‘s Corps of Signals, will be the

first woman parade adjutant for the Republic Day (26th January) parade of 2020. A parade adjutant is

responsible for the parade.

H9N2 virus: Indian scientists detect India‘s 1st case of infection in Maharashtra

Scientists of the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, Maharashtra have detected the 1st case

of H9N2 virus ,a rare subtype of influenza virus A, in a 17-month-old boy in Maharashtra.

15 new investment proposals worth Rs 6608 cr approved in Tamil Nadu

On January 14,2020 In Tamil Nadu, fifteen new investment proposals worth Rs 6608 crore have been

approved, which will generate 6763 direct employment. They have been cleared by the higher-level

committee on industrial guidance and single window system, led by the state chief-minister Edappadi

K Palaniswamy.


Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra in New Delhi renamed as Sushma Swaraj Bhawan

Government has decided to rename Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra in New Delhi as Sushma Swaraj

Bhawan and Foreign Service Institute in the national capital as Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign

Service.

Manipur CM launches ‗Anganphou Hunba‘ programme at Arapti Mayai Leikai in Imphal East

Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh stated that his government has prepared a 260-crore

rupee project to provide irrigation facilities by pumping ground water and is awaiting the Centre‘s

approval.

Organic Food Festival for women entrepreneurs

An organic food festival for women entrepreneurs will be held during February 21-23 in the

national capital as part of the government‘s effort to boost organic products and promote women

entrepreneurship in the area of production and processing.Theme: Unleashing India‘s Organic

Market Potential

Parshuram Kund Mela‘ started in North-Eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh

Parshuram Kund Mela started in North-Eastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. Parshuram Kund, a

Hindu pilgrimage centre situated on the Brahmaputra plateau in the lower reaches of the Lohit River.

India, Bangladesh Information and Broadcasting Ministers‘ Meet 2020 held in New Delhi

India and Bangladesh Information and Broadcasting Ministers‘ Meet 2020 was held in New Delhi.

Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Bangladeshi counterpart

Muhammad H Mahmud representing their respective countries in this meet.

Union Minister for culture and tourism launched ―Indian Heritage in Digital Space‖ exhibition in

New Delhi

On January 15, 2020 Union Minister of State for Culture and Tourism (IC) Shri Prahalad Singh

Patel launched the first International Heritage Symposium and Exhibition (IHSE). The exhibition will

be held until February 15, 2020 on ―Indian Heritage in Digital Space ― and the first international

heritage symposium will be held for two days in the National Museum in New Delhi.


Overview of 5th edition of Raisina Dialogue 2020 held in New Delhi

The 5th edition of the Raisina Dialogue 2020 which is India‘s annual global conference on geopolitics

and geo-economics was held in New Delhi from January 14-16, 2020. The dialogue was jointly

organised by the Ministry of External Affairs(MEA) and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF).

Mizoram sets to celebrate ‗Chapchar Kut‘ festival on March 6, 2020

On January 14, 2020 Government of Mizoram along with the organizing committee under the

chairmanship of Chief Minister Zoramthanga has decided to celebrate the ‗Chapchar Kut‘, the

biggest and most important festival of the Mizos, on March 6, 2020.

Arunachal pradesh becomes the 1st state in India to initiate IUCN‘s red-listing of orchids

On January 17, 2020, Arunachal Pradesh (AR) has became the 1st State in India to initiate

the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)‘s ‗red listing‘ of orchids at the state

level after it has inked a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the International Union for

Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in Itanagar, AR.

Centre accepts SIT recommendations in 1984 anti-Sikh riot cases headed by Justice SN Dhingra On January 15,2020 The Special Investigation Team (SIT) probing of the 1984 anti-sikh riots cases

was headed by retired Delhi High Court judge Justice SN Dhingra.

Ladakh hosts first ever Food Processing Summit to attract investors

Union Territory Ladakh is hosting the first ever Food Processing Summit to attract investors to the

region.

With the help of Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the Ministry of Food Processing

Industries, the UT Administration of Ladakh is organizing the Summit.

Om Birla inaugurates 7th Conference of CPA India Region in Lucknow

7th Conference of Commonwealth Parliamentary Association India Region in the legislative

assembly building in Lucknow.The main theme of the conference is ‗ROLE OF LEGISLATORS‘

Fifth Science Film festival kick-starts in Goa

The fifth edition of Science Film Festival of India, SCI-FFI 2020, was kick-started in Goa‘s capital

city Panaji.


Films that have been selected to be screened at the event are ‗Mission Mangal‘, ‗Antariksham 9000

KMPH‘, ‗Everest‘, ‗Aamorie‘, ‗Terminator: Dark Fate‘, ‗Geostorm‘ and, ‗Virus‗ among others.

1st edition of Krishi Manthan hosted begins in Gujarat

1st edition of Krishi Manthan– the largest Food, Agri-business and Rural Development Summit of

Asia begins in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. This summit is organized by Indian Institute of Management

Ahmedabad. It is an exclusive platform for industry, academia, and policymakers to share ideas,

knowledge, and expertise to create solutions.

Microsoft vows will be carbon negative by 2030

The US tech giant Microsoft has announced that it would become ―carbon negative‖ by year 2030.

Microsoft has also announced its investment of $1 billion in a ―climate innovation fund‖ for

technology for carbon capture and removal.

3rd Edition of North Zone Conference of MIB‘s of Media Units held in Jammu

The 3rd edition of North Zone Conference‘ of Media Units of Information and Broadcasting Ministry,

held in Jammu. The Conference is being organised by the Regional Outreach Bureau, Jammu and

Kashmir region.

1st Session of India-Norway Dialogue on Trade & Investment Held in New Delhi

The 1st ever session of the India-Norway dialogue on Trade & Investment (DTI) was held from

January 15-16 in New Delhi.

Bahadurpur and Kheri Viran to become India‘s first model sports villages

On January 16, 2020 Two villages namely Bahadurpur and Kheri Viran of Uttar Pradesh (UP) has set

to become India‘s first ‗Model Sports villages‘ as a part of Institute of Management Technology (IMT)

Ghaziabad, UP ‗Adarsh Khel Gram‘ program in association with NGO(Non Governmental

Organization)‗ Sports: A Way of Life‘ to evolve sports culture and increase sports literacy in the

country.

Govt allocates Rs 2379 crore for completing Z Morh tunnel in J&K

On January 17, 2020 a concession agreement was signed in New Delhi for completing the Z-Morh

tunnel in the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir(J&K). Under the agreement Rs.2379

crore has been allocated to complete the construction of the tunnel within 3.5 years.


Face recognition app to be used in Telangana Municipal polls on pilot basis

In a first in India, the Telangana State Election Commission will be using facial recognition app in a

bid to counter impersonation by voters. This will be done on a pilot basis in 10 selected polling stations

in Kompally Municipality of Medchal Malkajgiri district.

Delhi CM launches ‗Guarantee card‘ ahead of Assembly Polls

Aam Aadmi Party national convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched

party‘s Guarantee Card ahead of upcoming assembly elections in the national capital.

He stated in the coming 5 years, AAP will ensure 24 hours drinking water supply to every household

and pollution-free Delhi.

Bengaluru comes up with Centre for Excellence in Blockchain Technology

In Karnataka, Bengaluru has come up with a Centre for Excellence in Blockchain Technology. Set up

by the National Informatics Centre.

Week-long National Tribal Youth Exchange Programme to begin in Puducherry.

A week-long National Tribal Youth Exchange Programme will begin in Puducherry . The

programme is being jointly organized by the Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan (NYKS) and Puducherry

Government.

Andhra Pradesh Cabinet clears the Proposal for three capitals: Visakhapatnam, Amaravati,

Kurnool

On January 20, 2020 Andhra Pradesh (AP) Government has passed Andhra Pradesh Decentralization

and Inclusive development of All Regions Bill-2020 for the tri-capital system. The bill proposes to

make Visakhapatnam as the executive capital, Amaravati as the legislative capital and Kurnool as the

judicial capital of Andhra Pradesh.

9th International Children‘s Film Festival begins in Kolkata


The 9th International Children‘s Film Festival begins in Kolkata with the screening of Aizaz Khan

directed Hamid.

Gujarat leads in water efficiency survey 2019 under National hydrology project, Delhi among

worst performing states

On January 18, 2020, According to the rankings of ‗Central and state governmental water

departments based on their efficiency targets for 2019‘ released by Ministry of Jal

Shakti, Gujarat ranked the best for parameters on efficiency targets, while National Capital Territory

of Delhi remains in the worst-performing state category.

3rd

International symposium on marine ecosystems challenges and opportunities (MECOS) 2020

held in Kochi, Kerala

The 3rd

edition of the International Symposium on Marine Ecosystems Challenges and

Opportunities (MECOS-3) was held at Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute

(CMFRI) in Kochi, Keral.

Union ministers Prakash Javadekar, R K Singh inaugurated 14th

edition of ELECRAMA 2020

held in Greater Noida, UP

On January 18, 2020, Union Minister of Heavy Industries &Public Enterprises, Environment, Forest and

Climate Change and Information & Broadcasting, Prakash Javadekar and Power Minister Raj Kumar

Singh have inaugurated the 5-day long 14th

edition of ELECRAMA 2020 being held at the India Expo

Mart, Greater Noida, Uttar Pradesh (UP). The ELECRAMA 2020 chairman is Anil Saboo.

Magh Bihu festival celebrated in Assam

On January 15,2020 Magh Bihu, an auspicious harvest festival is being celebrated in Assam. Magh

Bihu falls in the local month of ‗Magh‘ during mid-january. It is also called ‗Bhogali Bihu‘ or ‗Maghor

Bihu‘ as it is celebrated with community feasts after the annual harvest takes place.

Union HRD Minister inaugurated 28th New Delhi World Book Fair 2020 in New Delhi

The 28th edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair 2020 (NDWBF 2020) was held at Pragati Maidan

in New Delhi from January 4-12, 2020. It was inaugurated by Union Minister of Human Resource


Development (MHRD) Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‗Nishank‘. The theme of NDWBF 2020 book fair was

‗Gandhi: TheWriters‘ Writer‘ celebrating 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi.

Highlights of NSA Ajit Doval‘s visit to Sri Lanka; $50mn assistance pledged to SL

On January 18, 2020 the National Security Advisor (NSA) of India Shri Ajit Doval paid a day-long visit

to Colombo in the Island nation of Sri Lanka (SL). On his visit, Shri Doval met the President of SL

Shri Nandasena Gotabaya Rajapaksa and held talks on various bilateral issues.

Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren Rijiju flag off ‗Fit India Cyclothon‘

Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren Rijiju flag off ‗Fit India Cyclothon‘ in Panaji,

Goa. This inaugural event of ‗Fit India Cyclothon‘ organised by Directorate of Sports and Youth

Affairs and Government of Goa.

‗One Nation, One Ration Card‘ scheme will be implemented by June 1, 2020: Union Minister Ram

Vilas Paswan

On January 20, 2020 ‗One Nation, One Ration Card‘ scheme will be implemented by June 1,

2020 across the country. The announcement was made by the Minister of Consumer Affairs, Food and

Public Distribution, Ram Vilas Paswan.

International Conclave on ‗Globalising Indian Thought‘ held in IIM-Kozhikode from January 16-

18, 2020

The Indian Institute of Management Kozhikode (IIM Kozhikode), Kerala has hosted an

‗International Conclave on Globalising Indian Thought‘ (GIT2020) from January 16-18, 2020.

3rd

edition of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2020: PM Modi interacts with students, teachers in New Delhi


On January 20, 2020, The Prime Minister(PM), Shri Narendra Modi has attended the 3rd

edition

interaction programme with school students ‗Pariksha Pe Charcha 2020‗ held at Talkatora Stadium

in New Delhi.

Supreme Court sets up a panel for draft mediation law headed by mediator Niranjan Bhat

The Supreme Court set up a panel headed by mediator Niranjan Bhat to firm up draft legislation to

give legal sanctity to disputes settled through mediation, which would then be sent to the government as

a suggestion from the apex court.

West Bengal emerges at the top in vegetable production

West Bengal has overtaken Uttar Pradesh and emerged as the top State in vegetable

production in 2018-19, the data presented at a recent horticultural meeting showed.

Fruits production

Andhra Pradesh continued to hold on to the pole position in fruits with 17.61 mt, followed

by Maharashtra (10.82 mt) and UP (10.65 mt). While Andhra Pradesh marginally improved

its position,

BEL commissions real time train info system for Railways

Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL), the Bengaluru-based defence PSU, has commissioned Phase I of the

Real Time Train Information System (RTIS) for the Railways.


IILF to be held in Chennai from January 31 to February 3

The 35th edition of India International Leather Fair (IILF) will be held from January 31

to February 3 in Chennai. The event organised by the Indian Finished Leather Manufacturers

and Exporters Association will provide an insight about the latest trends and designs in the

industry.

GoI sets up ―National Startup Advisory Council‖

The ―National Startup Advisory Council‖ has been set up by the Government of India to guide the

union government to build a strong ecosystem to nurture innovation and start-ups in India. The council

will be chaired by the Commerce Minister.

Prime Minister Modi chairs the 32nd edition of PRAGATI platform meeting

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has chaired the 32nd interaction through PRAGATI platform which

was held in New Delhi. PRAGATI is defined as the ICT-based, multi-modal platform for Pro-Active

Governance and Timely Implementation. The PRAGATI platform also addresses the grievances of the

common people.

Brazilian President J. M. Bolsonaro has been invited as the Chief Guest on India‘s 71st Republic

Day celebrations

On the occasion of 71st Republic Day Parade at Raj Path, New Delhi on 26 January, President of

Brazil Jair Messias Bolsonaro has been invited as the chief guest.

Government of Maharashtra makes the reading of Preamble mandatory in Maharashtra schools

Maharashtra Government has made the reading of the Preamble of the Constitution mandatory for

the Maharashtra schools. The reading will be done after prayer in all primary and secondary schools

in Maharashtra.

Uttar Pradesh Government launches Mukhyamantri Krishak Durghatna Kalyan Yojana

Mukhyamantri Krishak Durghatna Kalyan Yojana has been launched by the government of Uttar

Pradesh to provide financial assistance to the family of farmers who die or become handicapped while

working in fields.

Meghalaya celebrates 48th anniversary of its statehood day on 21 January


Meghalaya celebrates the 48th anniversary of its statehood day on 21 January and the celebrations will

continue till the Republic Day celebration.

Adani Capital acquires Essel Finance‘s MSME lending business

Essel Finance‘s micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) loan business has been acquired by

Adani Capital Private Ltd. Through the acquisition, Adani Capital has secured a loan book of around

Rs 145 crore.

Bharti Airtel receives approval from Telecom department to raise FDI in the company to 100%

The Bharti Airtel Ltd has received the approval from the Telecom department to increase the Foreign

Direct Investment (FDI) in the company to 100%. The approval will enable Bharti Airtel company to

raise more funds as per its requirement.

IIM Indore to provide ‗mob management & communication‘ training to UP Police

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Indore will provide effective communication and crowd

management training to the Uttar Pradesh Police personnel.

Union minister Ravi Shankar Prasad inaugurates 2nd

edition of ‗NIC TechConclave 2020‘ in New

Delhi

On January 21, 2020, Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad ,the Union Minister for Law & Justice,

Communications and Electronics & Information Technology(IT), has inaugurated a 2-day

long 2nd

edition of ‗NIC TechConclave 2020‘based on the theme ―Technologies for NextGen

Governance‖ held at Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi.

‗Youth Co:Lab- National innovation Challenge‘ was hosted by Atal Innovation Mission and

UNDP in New Delhi

On January 17, 2020 Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) NITI Aayog and United Nations Development

Programme (UNDP) hosted a three day long Youth Co:Lab -National Innovation Challenge in New

Delhi.

Uttarakhand is the 1st state in the country to implement agricultural leasing policy

Uttarakhand has become the first state in India which has made a policy to lease agricultural land.

After the approval of Rashtrapati Bhavan, the state government has issued the order.

Bengaluru airport first in India to get disabled aircraft recovery equipment


On 14th

January 2020, An agreement was signed by the Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL)

to acquire Disabled Aircraft Recovery Equipment (DARE) to enhance operational capabilities and to

reduce downtime during runway emergencies.

Visually impaired cricketers to get exclusive sports ground in Bengaluru

Visually impaired cricketers are likely to get a dedicated sports training complex that will enable them to

develop into professional players, the Cricket Association for the Blind in India (CABI).

Uttarakhand becomes 1st state to implement agricultural land leasing policy

Uttarakhand has become the 1st state in the country where the government has made a policy to lease

agricultural land.

NPCI Launches Blockchain-Based Vajra Platform To Secure Payments

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched a blockchain-technology based

payment system ‗Vajra Platform‘.

MD & CEO of National Payments Corporation of India: Dilip Asbe.

Headquarters of National Payments Corporation of India: Mumbai.

Jharkhand‘ Jharia is the most polluted Indian city & Lunglei, Mizoram least polluted:

Greenpeace India report 2018

The Greenpeace India report for 2018 was released based on the National Ambient Air Quality

Monitoring Programme (NAMP), on January 21, 2020. Jharia in Jharkhand which is known for Coal-

belching is the most polluted Indian city with 322 µg/m3 (micrograms per cubic meter) of PM10

(Particulate matter) pollutants in 2018, according to the report analysis of 287 cities across the country.

Greenpeace India Headquarters Location: Bengaluru.

Greenpeace India Founded: 2001.

Cabinet committee approves the closure of Hindustan Fluorocarbons plant in Telangana

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, CCEA approved shutting down the operations of the

plant and unit of Hindustan Fluorocarbons Limited, HFL and closure of the company.

HFL is a Central Public Sector Enterprise under Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals. HFL has

only one plant located at Rudraram, District Sangareddy in Telangana.


Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurates India‘s first global Mega Science Exhibition ―Vigyan Samagam‖ in

Delhi

India‘s first global Mega Science Exhibition ―Vigyan Samagam‖ at National Science Centre, This is

fourth such exhibition after bring organised at Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata.

Odisha Mahaotsav begins in Gujarat

In Gujarat, the 2-day Odisha Mahaotsav as a part of Ek Bharat Shreshth Bharat Programme was

launched. More than one lakh people from Odisha are settled in Gujarat. They will showcase the art,

culture, traditions & rich heritage of Odisha in the festival.

Taxi service ‗Women with Wheels‘ launched at Indira Gandhi International Airport

A unique taxi service ‗Women with wheels‘ which will be only available for the female commuters

and will be driven by women drivers only, has been launched at the Indira Gandhi International

Airport, New Delhi. It is an initiative by ‗Sakha cabs‘.

CEO of Sakha Consulting Wings: Arvind Vadera.

44th International Kolkata Book Fair will be held with Russia as focal theme country

The 44th International Kolkata Book Fair (IKBF) will be held with Russia as the focal theme

country. It is the world‘s largest non-trade book fair, Asia‘s largest book fair and the most attended

book fair in the world.

IR sets up govt‘s 1st Waste to energy plant at Mancheswar Carriage Repair Workshop in

Bhubaneswar, Odisha

On January 22, 2020 Railway Board Member (Rolling Stock) Rajesh Agarwal inaugurated the East

Coast Railway‘s (ECoR) waste to energy plant at Carriage Repair

Workshop, Mancheswar (CRW/MCS) in Bhubaneswar, Odisha.

India‘s 1st War Memorial for Animals to be set up in Meerut, UP

On January 23, 2020 the govt has announced to set up country‘s 1st war memorial for

service animals such as dogs, horses, mules in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh(UP).

MoRD inks MoU with BMGF under DAY-NRLM to strengthen grassroots institutions of the

rural poor


On January 22, 2020 the Ministry of Rural Development(MoRD) has signed a Memorandum of

Understanding (MoU) with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation(BMGF) under the Deendayal

Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM). The MoU is to

further strengthen grassroots of institutions for rural poor.

2nd Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan Puraskar 2020:DMMC & Kumar Singh

awarded

The govt of India announced the 2nd edition of the 2020 Subhash Chandra Bose Aapda Prabandhan

Puraskar on January 23, 2020, marking the 123rd birth anniversary of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose.

Election Commission of India receives cabinets approval to ink agreement with EC of Tunisia and

Papua New Guinea

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has granted its approval to the Election

Commission of India to ink agreement with Papua New Guinea Electoral Commission and Independent

High Authority for Elections of Tunisia.

NIRDPR ties up with UNICEF, Hyderabad (Telangana) field office to establish ‗communication

resource unit‘

On January 24, 2020, National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRDPR),an

autonomous organization under the Union Ministry of Rural Development has entered into the

partnership with UNICEF (United Nations Children‘s Fund), Hyderabad (Telangana) field office to

set up ‗Communication Resource Unit‘ (CRU).

External affairs Minister Jaishankar‘s 3-day visit to Niger & Tunisia

External Affairs Minister(EAM) of India Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar has paid a visit to two

nations Niger & Tunisia.This is his 1st visit to the African continent after becoming Foreign Minister &

he was the 1st Indian EAM to visit Niger.

Nitin Gadkari launches ‗GATI‘ web portal to monitor Rs 3 lakh crore rupees project

On January 23, 2020, Nitin Jairam Gadkari, Minister for Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH)

has launched an online web portal ‗GATI‘, on the pattern of portal ‗PRAGATI‘, the portal used by the

Prime Ministers‘ Officer (PMO) for monitoring projects, during the two-days long review meeting of

National Highways Authority (NHAI)-Ministry projects in Manesar, Haryana.

Himachal Pradesh celebrates its 50th Statehood Day


Himachal Pradesh celebrated its 50th Statehood Day with fanfare and enthusiasm throughout the state

on 25 January. It was on this day in 1971 when Himachal Pradesh was carved out as the 18th State of

the country. CM unveiled the golden jubilee plaque.

‗Bharat Parv 2020‘ begins at Red Fort to celebrate spirit of India

A festival to celebrate the spirit of India ―Bharat Parv 2020‖ has begun at Red Fort Ground in New

Delhi. The theme of this year‘s Bharat Parv is ‗Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat‘ and ‗Celebrating 150

Years of Mahatma Gandhi.

India‘s 1st e-waste clinic opens in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh

India‘s first e-waste clinic is being opened in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh. The e-waste clinic was

inaugurated by C K Mishra (Secretary to the Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate change,

MoEFCC). The e-waste clinic is jointly set up by the Central Pollution Control Board-CPCB and

Bhopal Municipal Corporation-BMC.

‗Innovation Festival‘ begins at Science Centre in Itanagar

The ‗Innovation Festival‘ kicked off at the Science Centre in Itanagar, Arunachal Pradesh. The

festival is being organized by the Arunachal Pradesh State Council for Science & Technology in

collaboration with the National Innovation Foundation.

Government announces sale of 100% stake in debt-laden Air India

The government of India announced a sale of 100% stake in debt-laden Air India. As part of the

strategic disinvestment and has set March 17, as the deadline for submitting an expression of interest

(EoI).

France to be the guest of honour at 2022 New Delhi World Book Fair

On January 22, 2020 France ambassador to India, Emmanuel Lenain has announced that France will be

the guest of honour at New Delhi World Book Fair for the year 2022 (NDWBF 2022) as part of the

reciprocal invitation as New Delhi was the guest of honour for 2020 Livre Paris (Paris Book Fair).

Reading preamble of constitution made mandatory in schools of Madhya Pradesh

On January 26, 2020 the govt of Madhya Pradesh has made it mandatory for schools to read

the preamble of the constitution every Saturday under the name sovereignty of constitution.


Department of Biotechnology organized International Summit on Women in STEM

Department of Biotechnology organized an International Summit on Women in STEM- "Visualizing

the Future: New Skylines" on 23 & 24 of January in New Delhi. Overall aim was to boost

participation of women in STEM field for development of scientific career.

STEM- Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

First-ever carnival of peace and harmony held in Shillong

Shillong witnessed the 1st-ever carnival of peace & harmony as part of the weeklong Meghalaya Day

Celebrations. Carnival procession passed through the busy streets of Shillong city showcasing different

ethnic communities of the State & neighbouring areas.

World‘s largest meditation centre coming up in Hyderabad

The world‘s largest meditation centre and the global headquarters of the Heartfulness Institute will be

inaugurated on January 28. To mark the 75th anniversary of the organisation, Kanha Shanti Vanam-

spread over 30 acres-will be dedicated to Lalaji.

It can accommodate 100,000 practitioners at one go.

Kerala CM Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated India‘s 1st Super Fab Lab

On January 25, 2020 the Chief Minister(CM) of Kerala Shri Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated

India‘s 1st Super Fab Lab facility at the Integrated Startup Complex of the Kerala Startup Mission

(KSUM).

The lab which will function in collaboration with the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT),

United States(US), will work in enhancing the hardware industry.

Ministry of Tourism to fund the travel expenses of the tourist who visit 15 destinations of our

country in 1 year

The Ministry of Tourism (MoT) will fund the travel expenses of the tourist who submits the photos in

tourism websites after visiting 15 destinations of our country in a year. It was announced by the Union

Tourism Minister, Prahald Singh Patel during the concluding ceremony of the two-day National

Tourism Conference held at Konark, Odisha.


1st Ganga-Volga Dialogue of civilizations 2020 between India & Russia held in New Delhi

On 22 January 2020, The 1st edition of Ganga-Volga Dialogue of Civilizations 2020 based on

the theme ―Connectivity‖, between India & Russia was held in New Delhi.

71st Republic Day Celebrations:

Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro attended as a chief guest

16 States and UTs along with 6 central ministries participated

Captain Tania Shergill led Corps of Signals Contingent: 4th generation army officer Captain Tania Shergill (26 years) who became the 1st woman officer as

Parade Adjutant on Army Day Parade (15 January, 2020), led the corps of signals under the motto

‗Teevra Chaukas‘ (swift and alert).

Dhanush gun system Army Air Defence marching contingent took part for 1st time: The artillery gun system Dhanush, short-span bridge system and a marching contingent of the Army Air

Defence took part for the 1st time in the Republic Day parade.

ASAT from Mission Shakti, ADTCR to be on display during Republic Day parade: The Anti-Satellite (ASAT) missile from Mission Shakti and Air Defence Tactical Control Radar

(ADTCR) of the DRDO(Defence Research Development Organisation)was displayed for the 1st time

during the republic day ceremony.

‗Abide With Me‘, the Christian hymn played in republic day: The Ministry of Defence(MoD) decided to reinstate the Hymn, Abide With Me in the beating retreat

ceremony at the republic day celebrations. It was also Mahatma Gandhi‘s favourite hymn.

Andhra Pradesh cabinet approves proposal to abolish legislative council

On January 27, 2020, The Andhra Pradesh (AP) cabinet chaired by the chief minister (CM) Yeduguri

Sandinti Jaganmohan Reddy has approved the abolition of the legislative council which the

government feels is a major hurdle for passing crucial bills.

GeM signed MoU with UP for GOTT Project Management Unit

On January 27, 2020, The Government eMarketplace (GeM) under the Department of Commerce of the

Ministry of Commerce and Industry (MoC&I) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding(MoU) with

the Uttar Pradesh(UP) govt to set up a GeM Organizational Transformation Team (GOTT) Project

Management Unit (PMU) in the state.


New industries in Madhya Pradesh have to employ 70% local youth: Governor

Madhya Pradesh Governor Lalji Tandon said that government was accelerating job creation by setting

up new industries, which have to compulsorily employ 70% local youths. State has brought the number

of permissions required in realty sector from 27 to 5.

Global Potato Conclave 2020

The 3rd Global Potato Conclave-2020 begins today at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Prime Minister

Narendra Modi will inaugurate the conclave through video conferencing.

Meerut to house India‘s first war memorial for animals

Government of India is a plan to set up a war memorial for animals in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. It will

be India‘s first animal war memorial. The memorial will come up at the Remount and Veterinary

Corps (RVC) Centre and College in Meerut.

Horticulture output to be 313.35 million tonnes in 2019-20: First advance estimates

On January 27,2020, The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, Government of India (GoI)

has presented the first advance report for 2019-20 & as well as the final estimate for 2018-19 for Area

and Production of various Horticulture Crops

India‘s first underwater metro, ‗Kolkata metro‘ to be opened by March 2022

On January 28,2020 Kolkata Metro Rail Corporation (KMRC) is set to complete its East-

West Project, which runs partly under the Hooghly river, West Bengal, by March 2022.

A soft loan of 41.6 billion rupees from Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) funded

48.5% of the project.

IR with 100% electrification by 2024:

The Indian Railways(IR) has set a target to run entire railway network with 100% of electricity

by 2024. IR will also be the 1st railway in the world with large scale and size to be run on electricity.

By 2030 IR plans to run on clean energy and become net zero carbon emitter

Rajya Sabha panel submits report on child porn


On January 25,2020, An ad hoc committee of the Rajya Sabha (RS) headed by Congress

parliamentarian Jairam Ramesh submitted its report on child pornography to Vice President (VP) and

Rajya Sabha Chairman Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu.

Centre & Assam govt to provide 1,500 Cr assistance for economic development of Bodo

community

Centre signed an accord with the Assam-based different insurgent groups and civil societies including

the National Democratic Front of Bodoland to provide 1,500 Cr assistance. The accord will provide

political, economic and land rights to Bodo tribals.

Centre to release report card of 'smart cities' in June

The central government will release a report card of 100 selected smart cities in 3 categories- ease of

living, municipal performance index and climate-in June as the Smart Cities Mission completes its

five years. It will help cities in better planning.

Jitendra Singh launches Bhuvan Panchayat V 3.0 Web portal

Union Minister of State for PMO Jitendra Singh launched the Bhuvan Panchayat V3 web Portal in

Anthariksh Bhavan, ISRO Head Quarters in Bengaluru. This web Portal will enhance network

application of gram panchayats. The Portal will function with the help of satellite technology developed

by ISRO.

Indian Railways commissions 1st waste to energy plant in Bhubaneswar

Indian Railways has commissioned India‘s 1st governmental waste-to-energy plant in Mancheswar

Carriage Repair workshop at Bhubaneswar under the East Coast Railway zone.

Maharashtra CM Uddhav Thackeray inaugurates Nagpur Metro‘s Aqua line

The Chief Minister of Maharashtra Uddhav Thackeray inaugurated 18.5 kilometre-long stretch of

Nagpur Metro Aqua line of Maha Metro Rail Network.

Govt of Odisha launches virtual police station

The State Government of Odisha has launched a virtual police station where people can lodge

complaints from their respective districts without visiting Police Station. The e-police station will

function from the State Crime Records Bureau in Bhubaneswar.

10 more wetlands from India declared as Ramsar sites


On January 28, 2020 in an effort to improve the conservation, restoration and rejuvenation of wetlands,

the Ramsar Convention has declared 10 more wetland sites from India as sites of national importance.

Ramsar sites are those which are declared under the Ramsar Convention signed in 1971 to preserve

wetlands of national importance. Thus India now has a total of 37 Ramsar sites covering an area of

1,067,939 hectares.

Nandur Madhameshwar: This is the 1st Ramsar site of Maharashtra

It is named after the city of Ramsar in Iran, where the Convention was signed in 1971.

SC allows govt to bring African cheetah to suitable wildlife habitat in India

On January 28, 2020 the Supreme Court(SC) has allowed the govt. to introduce African Cheetah in a

suitable wildlife habitat in India including Kuno-Palpur (Kuno National Park) in Madhya Pradesh.

The decision was taken after a petition was filed by National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to

introduce the African Cheetah from Namibia as the rare Indian Cheetah that has become almost extinct

in India.

MGNREGA scheme faces fund crunch as 96% funds been spent

On January 26, 2020, as per Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act

(MGNREGA) scheme‘s financial statement, the govt is on the verge of running out of funds for the

MGNREGA scheme.

15 states currently have negative net balance. Out of them Rajasthan has the highest negative net

balance of Rs 640 crore followed by Uttar Pradesh with Rs.323 crores.

Country‘s 1st and biggest ‗walk-through‘ aviary inaugurated at Byculla Zoo in Maharashtra

On January 26, 2020, Chief Minister of Maharashtra Uddhav Thackeray inaugurated the country‘s first

and biggest ‗walk-through‘ aviary in Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo also known as

Byculla Zoo in Mumbai, Maharashtra.

He also inaugurated ‗Miyawaki‘ method, at Bhakti Park in Wadala, Maharashtra to increase cover in

Mumbai. This method is about planting maximum trees in minimum area and it will be implemented in

64 locations in the state.

India‘s crude steel production rose by 1.8 % to 111.2 MT in 2019: WSA


January 28, 2020, According to World Steel Association (WSA), the international trade body for the

iron and steel industry , India‘s crude steel production increased to 111.2 million tonne (MT) in 2019,

showing a 1.8 % hike over 2018 (109.3 MT).

India ranked 2nd

in top 10 steel-producing countries as Asian steel producers China ranked 1st as the

largest steel producer in 2019 at 996.3 MT, up by 8.3 % on 2018.

Hq of World Steel Assocoation Brussels, Belgium

NTPC to develop 300 MW solar power projects in West African country Togo

On January 28, 2020,According to the Power Ministry, Government of India (GoI), West African

country Togo has appointed NTPC ( formerly known as National Thermal Power Corporation

Limited), India‘s largest energy conglomerate, as its project management consultant (PMC) for

about 300 MW (MegaWatt) of solar power projects in Togo.

Researchers at IIT-H develops essential-oil-based drug carrier to treat fungal diseases

On January 29, 2020, Researchers from the Indian Institute of Technology, Hyderabad (IIT-H),

Telangana has developed a new essential-oil-based system of delivering medicines to the body for the

treatment of fungal infections

Flipkart signs MoU with GSHHDC to promote artisans and craftsmen

Flipkart Private Limited, an Indian e-commerce company, has entered into an MoU (memorandum of

understanding) with the Gujarat State Handloom and Handicrafts Development Corporation Ltd

(GSHHDC) for the promotion of local handicrafts by bringing on board thousands of artisans, weavers

and craftsmen.

The agreement is a part of Flipkart‘s ―Samarth‖ initiative & was signed in the presence of Gujarat

chief minister (CM) Vijay Ramniklal Rupani at an event held in Rajkot, Gujarat.

ECI hosts 10th Annual Meeting of Forum of Election Management Bodies of South Asia

Election Commission of India is hosting the 10th Annual Meeting of the Forum of the Election

Management Bodies of South Asia (FEMBoSA) in New Delhi.

The Election Commission of India will take over the Chair of the forum for the year 2020.

On the occasion, the International Conference on the theme ‗Strengthening Institutional

Capacity‘ is also being organized.

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Pema Khandu dedicates Padi Yubbe outdoor stadium to the people of Lower Subansiri

Chief Minister Pema Khandu dedicated the 4000 seating capacity Padi Yubbe outdoor stadium to the

people of Lower Subansiri district.The stadium has been named after the first cabinet Minister from

the Apatani community.

Govt targets to install 175 GigaWatt renewable energy by 2022

The Government has targeted to install 175 GigaWatt renewable energy by 2022 to build a healthy

planet with a less carbon intensive economy.

Through Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Surkasha Evam Utthan Mahabhiyan, PM-KUSUM scheme,

the government empowers the farmers to be the producer of energy.

Surajkund Mela 2020 : The Largest Crafts Fair In The World

President Ram Nath Kovind will inaugurate the 34th Surajkund International Crafts Fair on February 1,

2020, in Faridabad, Haryana. For the 34th Surajkund International Crafts Mela-2020, the partner

country of the fair is Uzbekistan. The state of Himachal Pradesh has been chosen to be the Theme

State.

44th

International Kolkata Book Fair 2020 (IKBF) begins in Kolkata, West Bengal with Russia as

the theme country

On 28 January 2020 , The 44th

edition of Kolkata Book Fair 2020 (IKBF) has commenced at Central

Park Mela Ground in SaltLake, Kolkata , West Bengal with Russia as a ―Focal Theme Country‖.

Tyto, a category of bird species was selected as the official Mascot of the Book Fair for the 1st time.

Overview of Luxembourg foreign minister Jean Asselborn‘s 2-day visit to India

The Minister of Foreign & European Affairs of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg H.E. Mr. Jean

Asselborn was on 2 day visit to India on January 27- 28, 2020.

NCRB Launched ‗Searching the missing persons‘ & ‗Generate Vehicle NOC‘ services.

On January 29,2020 NCRB (National Crime Records Bureau) launched 2 police related Citizen centric

services– ―Searching the missing persons‖ & ―Generating vehicle NOC (No Objection

Certificate)― on CCTNS (Crime & Criminal Tracking Network and Systems) platform.


Delhi airport gets a new women-only cab service namely ―Women with Wheels‖

‗Women with Wheels‘ cab service has been started at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), New

Delhi by ‗Sakha cabs‘ for the safety of women.

Tata AIG collaborates with Drone Federation of India for Drone Insurance

Tata AIG and Drone Federation of India (DFI) have collaborated to create insurance products and

services for the Drone Industry. DGCA regulations make insurance mandatory during operation of

remotely piloted aircraft systems.

Cabinet approves upper limit for abortion at 24 weeks

Cabinet gave nod to extend the upper gestation limit for abortion from the existing 20 to 24 weeks,

amending the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act,1971.Globally, pregnancies are aborted even at 32

wks in case there are substantial foetal abnormalities.

Google announces $1 million grant to promote news literacy in India

Technology giant Google announced a USD 1 million grant to promote news literacy among

Indians.The money will be given to Internews, a global non-profit, which will select a team of 250

journalists, fact checkers, academics and NGO workers for the project.

Nagoba Jatara festival celebrated in Telangana

On January 24, 2020 Nagoba Jatara tribal festival was celebrated in the state of Telangana.

Indian Railways to offer content on demand service by 2022

On January 14, 2020, The Indian Railways has decided to provid

January 2020 Rs 45/€¦ · chapatis, rice, dal and seasonal vegetable, all for Rs 10. 10,000 cameras to be used in Gujarat Lion Census, 2020 The Wildlife Institute of India (WII)

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