Predictions for UPSC Prelims 2017

Indian Polity Important Areas for Prelims 2017

Most Expected - Check List – Revise with Laxmikant and P.M.Bakshi

Indian Polity and Issues

1.      Alcohol Ban Issues - Refer: Article 142 – Complete Justice – Scope of Relief – SC as a GUARDIAN of the Constitution;  Refer: Article 47 of DPSP;

2.      Common High Court: Pondi & TN - Chennai (1861 Act); Arunachal, Assam, Mizo - Guwahati (1935 Act); AP & Telngana (1953 Act); Andaman & WB - Kolkata (1861 Act);Goa D&N DD,Maha - Mumbai(1861); Punjab Haryana Chandigarh - Punjab Haryana HC (1947 ordinance);

3.      PVTG – Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group – Dhebar Commission (1973) – Refer: Article 341 & Article 342; Note: Vanjeevan (MoTA + UNDP + NSTFDC); Also Refer: Forest Right Act 2006;

4.      Article 21 – Life & Personal Liberty – Note (1): Doctrine of Public Trust, Natural Justice, Reproductive choice of women, Detention of Under trail for indefinite period, Vishaka Guidelines (1997) – Sexual harassment at workplace; Note (2): Denial of employment for AIDS Patient – MX of Bombay Indian Inhabitant Case;  Related News: Decriminalizing Attempt to Suicide, AIDS & HIV Bill, Right to Privacy (1954 Sharma case & 1962 Kharak singh case – Now Whatsapp & Facebook Issue);

5.      Change in No-Detention Policy – Refer: Article 21A and RTE 2009 Act;

6.      Women Related: Monitoring Targets of BBBP Scheme (it is not a DBT or Cash Transfer Scheme – It focus on survival, protection, education of girl child), WOMEN TRANSFORMING INDIA INITIATIVES;

7.       

8.      NALSA 1987 (#30 years)

9.      National Commission for Child Rights 2007 (#10 years)

10.  UCIL 1967 (#50 years)

11.  NATCOM/ New Delhi (2002) – funded by GEF (#15 years)

12.  Union Territories are administrated by the President acting to such extent, as he thinks fit, through an Administrator appointed by him. Administrators of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Delhi and Puducherry are designated as Lieutenant Governors. The Governor of Punjab is concurrently the Administrator of Chandigarh. The Administrator of Dadra and Nagar Haveli is concurrently the Administrator of Daman and Diu. Lakshadweep has a separate Administrator.

13.  Read on J & K Special Provision – Article 370; Similar fetters have been imposed upon the executive power of the Union to safeguard the autonomy of the State of Jammu and Kashmir, a privilege which is not enjoyed by the other States of the Union, thus, (i) No Proclamation of Emergency made by the President under Art. 352 on the ground of internal disturbance shall have effect in the State of Jammu & Kashmir, without the con­currence of the Government of the State, (ii) Similarly, no decision affecting the disposition of the State can be made by the Government of India, without the consent of the Government of the State, (iii) The Union shall have no power to suspend the Constitution of the State on the ground of failure to comply with the directions given by the Union under Art. 365.

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Indian Economy & Development Important Areas for Prelims 2017

1.      Fund of Fund – Operated by SIDBI – under STARTUP INDIA ACTION PLAN of DIPP; (Note: Whereas STANDUP is for SC/ST/Women – Loan of Rs.1L to 1Cr - Standup Connect Centres SUCC – SIDBI & NABARD);

2.      New MSME Policy;

3.      New Steel Policy;

4.      NIIF (National Infrastructure Investment Fund) – Registered under Indian Trust Act and Recognized as Company under 2013 act - chaired by Finance Minister – CEO from International Finance Corporation / Washington;

5.      Refer Economy basics – Business Cycle – Great Depression, Great Inflation, Great Recession;

6.      Common Equity tier 1 Capital? Tier 1 common capital ratio is a measurement of a bank's core equity capital compared with its total risk-weighted assets that signifies a bank's financial strength. Simply, Common equity capital is the capital raised from public to finance operations and to startup companies or corporations or private banks. whereas, Core tire 1 or tier 1 capital both are same, it is the reserves plus the stock capital of the bank. Tier 2 capital, or supplementary capital, includes a number of important and legitimate constituents such as Undisclosed Reserves, Revaluation Reserves, General Provisions, Subordinated Term Debt, etc.

7.      The term ‘Dutch disease’ appeared in 1977. (Now Mentioned in ECONOMIC SURVEY 2015-16) This is the name for a risk which occurs when the boost of export of natural resources leads to a decline in the manufacturing industry, a phenomenon that reduces industrialization. In 1959, the Netherlands discovered a natural gas mine with large reserves. The country’s exports soared after it decided to sell the natural resource, earning big money after the first export consignments. However, the export made the Guilder, the then local currency, appreciate continuously. The other sectors of the economy became less competitive in the world market, while investments decreased dramatically. The Netherlands had to maintain low interest rates in an effort to curb the rapid appreciation of the local currency. The Dutch government had to increase investments in many different fields to recover production.

8.       Standing Deposit Facility is a remunerated facility that will not require the provision of collateral for liquidity absorption. Enter the Standing Deposit Facility. This will allow the RBI to absorb surplus funds from banks without collateral. Banks too continue to earn interest (though possibly lower than the existing reverse repo rate). In effect, it will empower the RBI to suck out as much liquidity as needed.

9. The Inclusive Development Index (IDI) is based on 12 performance indicators. In order to provide a more complete measure of economic development than GDP growth alone, the index has three pillars -- Growth and Development, Inclusion and Intergenerational Equity, and Sustainability.

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Geography, Environment, International Affairs and Sci-Tech

1.      UN-Habitat – Two themes: (1) Adequate Shelter for all; (2) Sustainable human settlements;  summits held every 20 years - I(Vancour/Canada 1976), II (Istanbul/Turkey 1996) – City Summit, III( Quito/Eucador 2016) – New Urban Agenda – Not legally binding; The New Urban Agenda, which will be taken up in Habitat III, aims at implementing the targets of Goal 11 in the Sustainable Development Goals, which specifically deals with making human cities and towns inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable. 

a.      Now India elected as President of this Nairobi based United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable Urban Development; The vision of APMCHUD is to act as global knowledge hub and facilitator of human settlement development and promoting sustainable development of human settlements in Asia Pacific Region;

b.      Also refer: APMCHUD - India is currently chair of Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development (APMCHUD) and The vision of APMCHUD is to act as global knowledge hub and facilitator of human settlement development and promoting sustainable development of human settlements in Asia Pacific Region; The sixth edition of Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development (APMCHUD) held in New Delhi has adopted NEW DELHI DECLARATION to adopt Urban Plus approach.

c.       National Housing and Habitat Policy 1998 (20 years completed) – Still in pursuit of Housing for all (deadline 2022); Note: Housing is the State Subject;

d.      News/Current Event: Jan 2016 to 3 year Term India elected to UN subsidiary – UNICEF, ECOSOC, WFP, CCPC, UN Habitat (2016-19)

5. India has been unanimously elected as the President of the UN-Habitat, an organ of the United Nations’ Organisation (UNO) that promotes socially and environmentally sustainable human settlements across the world, after 10 years. UN-Habitat reports to the United Nations General Assembly.  Since the UN-Habitat came into being in 1978,  It is only the third time that India has been  elected to lead this important organization after 2007 and 1988. As an inter-governmental policy making and decision making body, the Governing Council of UN-Habitat seeks to promote integral and comprehensive approach to human settlements, assist the countries and regions in addressing human settlement problems and strengthen cooperation among all countries on human settlement issue.  The theme of the 26th Meeting of the Governing Council is “Opportunities for effective implementation of the New Urban Agenda” with focus on inclusive, sustainable and adequate housing for a better future and planning and  financing sustainable urbanization and integrated human settlements. The New Urban Agenda was adopted by the world community at Quito, Ecuador last year.
6. Recall from old CA: GRIHA & LEED – Green Rating for Buildings;
7. Government  made public the Urban Development strategy for the next 20 years intending to give a big push to use growing urbanization for rapid economic development while at the same time committing itself to address issues of sustainable development and climate change. Minister of Housing & Urban Poverty Alleviation released ‘India Habitat III-National Report’ ahead of the UN Habitat III Conference in Quito, Ecuador late this month where a global New Urban Agenda for the next 20 years is going to be adopted.

2.      Polar Region: News (1): Plant life on both poles is growing rapidly as the planet warms. A new study has found a steady growth of moss in Antarctica over the last 50 years as temperatures increased as a result of climate change. The continued retreat of glaciers will make the Antarctic Peninsula, which has been warming at a faster rate than the rest of the continent, a much greener place in the future; For one, Antarctica is colder than the Arctic. But it also has a much thicker ice cover, thousands of feet thick in some areas, compared to Arctic sea ice that is just dozens of feet thick. The average elevation in Antarctica is more than a mile above sea level. Refer: ECOLOGICAL SUCCESSION and EXEMPTIONS (#Prelims 2017); News (2): India’s plans to acquire a ₹ 1,000-crore Polar Research vehicle (PRV) — a ship that can cut through ice sheets and glaciers — may see fresh delays. Though a Spanish ship-building company was roped in, in early 2015, the contract fell through, primarily due to escalated costs. The new ‘Make in India’ policy gives Indian companies an edge in baggingthese contracts, which are open to international and local bidders. The ‘ice-breaker,’ as these ships are colloquially called, can cut through a 1.5-metre thick wall of ice. With a lifespan of 30 years, the ship is expected to be central to India’s ambitions in the Arctic and Antarctica in coming years. India has announced plans to rebuild Maitri, its research station in Antarctica, and make it impervious to its harsh environment for at least 25 years. News (3): Huge Craters in Artic Ocean - Methane can form deep underground, where heat and pressure transform ancient organic material into methane gas. Fifteen thousand years ago during the Ice Age, when the Barents Sea was not yet a sea but an ice sheet, methane that migrated up through bedrock would have hit solid ice. It couldn’t go anywhere so it froze in place as methane hydrate. But as ice sheets melted to form a now liquid Barents Sea, the hydrates also began to turn back into methane gas. Pressure from this gas lifted the seafloor to create the giant mounds. With enough pressure, the mounds could blow, creating those giant craters. News (4): Sea ice 'to vanish from Arctic Ocean as region warming twice as fast as rest of world' This rapid loss of ice in the Arctic contributes not only to rising sea levels, but it also reduces the properties of sea ice that reflect the sun’s radiation back into space rather than absorb it like the ocean does, contributing even further to global warming.

3.     Anthropocene –“Recent age of man” – by the body ICS (International Commission on Stratigraphy) which decide epochs, eons, eras to mark the earth’s geological history; Refer: WWF’s LIVING PLANET REPORT; Living Planet Report – Since 1998 – by WWF (Switzerland 1961) (#55 years)

4.      Swatch of no ground (UPSC Mains 1999) – Swatch of No-Ground has a comparatively flat floor five to seven kilometres wide. At the edge of the shelf, depths in the trough are about 1,200 metres. It is globally famous for its cetaceans (whales, dolphins and porpoises) population. Swatch of No-Ground is a mysterious submarine canyon in the Bay of Bengal which is geologically, hydrologically and ecologically unexplored marine ecosystem on earth. A part of it was announced as the country's first Marine Protected Area (MPA) by the Ministry of Environment and Forest/ Bangladesh. Now in News: Expedition to Swatch of No-Ground in the Bay of Bengal in March (2017) to learn about the marine biota.

5.      Hirakund Dam (1957) – Mahanadi River – Dispute between Chattisgarh vs Odisha with NGT; Refer: Tributaries of Mahanadi;

6.      Phytoremediation: News(1): Floating rafts made with PVC pipes and coir strings on which Vetiver grass has been cultivated will be deposited in Perandoor Canal. Based on the principle of phytoremediation that proposes a low-cost, solar energy driven cleanup technique, Vetiver grass has been found to absorb heavy metals are found to be present in high amounts in the canal. Vetiver grass can purify the water from dissolved nitrates and ammoniates, but it cannot help in removing suspended particles which is the major cause of pollution of the canal. Refer (1): Algae Bloom – Cause & Effect – News (2): An increase in phosphates and nitrates results in a corresponding increase in algal and microbial growth in the lake which consume lot of dissolved oxygen eventually leaving the lake devoid of enough oxygen for aquatic plants and animals to survive.

7.      Blue Carbon Initiative: The initiative aims at achieving the following overall targets by 2025:- Reversing the current trend of the degradation of marine and coastal habitats and maintaining the amount of carbon sequestration;- Significantly increasing the area of Blue Carbon ecosystems under effective ecosystem-based management; coastal ecosystems - mangroves, tidal marshes and seagrasses; Refer: SDG 14.

8.      Antartica Circle?

9.      Dam in Chenab River – Dulhasti (J&K/commissioned in 2007 #10 years ago) and Baglihar Dam(J&K/commission in 2008); Refer: Indus River Water Treaty 1960 and World Bank Intervention; Also refer: Salal HEP, Sawalkot, Pakal Dul Dam, Ratle Dam;

10.  Climate Change Related:

11.  Mercer Study:

12.  Aral sea:

13.  Continental shelves:

14.   

15.  October heat: The weather in the month of October in the Indian sub-continent is called 'October heat'. During October and November, with the apparent movement of the sun towards the south, the monsoon trough or the low-pressure trough over the northern plains becomes weaker. This is gradually replaced by a high-pressure system. The south-west monsoon winds weaken and start withdrawing gradually. By the beginning of October, the monsoon withdraws from the northern plains. The months of October and November form the period of transition from the hot rainy season to dry winter conditions. The retreat of the monsoon is marked by clear skies and a rise in temperature. While day temperatures are high, nights are cool and pleasant. The land is still moist and the weather becomes rather oppressive during the day and is commonly known as October heat.

16.  Chenani-Nashri Tunnel.... Asia's longest bi-directional tunnel.... NH44 connect Jammu - Srinagar.... Refer: jawahae tunnel (banihal & quazigund in NH1A) – Pirpanjal Range; Also: Zojila Pass Tunnel Project – (Srinagar – Kargil - Leh) – Very Expensive Project

17.                        Pulse Production in India - Gram cultivated in Sub Tropical Areas. Main producers: MP, UP, AP, Maha, Rajasthan. Arhar/Tur/Red Gram/Pigeon Pea – Second main Pulse in India – 1/3 produced by Maharashtra.  Pulse pricing in India? Legume crops? Mostly Rainfed in India

18.                        Indian Mango Varieties – Banganapalli (AP), Chausa Langda (UP),  Alphoso, Kesar, Totapuri, Dalmbiya.

19.  Tiran and Sanfir – Islands of Contention - Disputed Island - Red Sea – Sinai Peninsula – Egypt & Saudi; Note: also refer other disputed islands Falkland Island, Parcel Island, Spartly Island. Also: South China Sea Dispute Refer: Cam Rahn Bay (Vietnam/ South China Sea) Recent Issue: Permanent Court of Arbitration (The Hague) declared no stake for China in South China Sea. PCA is not a real court like ICJ.  Refer: UNCLOS, Note: US is not partner in it. Refer Map for: Sasebo (Japan), Subic Bay (Philippines), Port Klang (Malaysia), Nine dash line. Refer: MALBAR-16 and RIM PAC-16

20.  Salt Production in India: News (1): The north India’s only natural rock salt mine at Mandi in Himachal Pradesh (HP) would soon start operations and production from April, 2017, six-year after they were closed for lack of environmental clearance and non-payment of dues.

21.  Anupam Varma Committee – recommended to ban 18 pesticides – Note: 2011 – SC ban on Endosulfan; Refer: Stockholm Convention on POPs;

22.  Global International Waterbird Census (IWC) – world’s longest running biodiversity monitoring programme; News (1): The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) along with Wetlands International is organizing Asian Waterbird Census (AWC) to count waterbirds all over India. "Waterbirds are the key indicators of the health of wetlands and highlight their importance for both humans and birds. The AWC is a citizen science programme that supports the management and conservation of waterbirds and wetlands. It is a part of the International Waterbird Census (IWC) which is completing its 50 years of waterbird monitoring." The birds that came up this year included oriental darter and river papwing, both put on the red-list by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Ropar has been declared a wetland by the Ramsar Convention of Wetlands. Asian Waterbird Census is part of the International Waterbird Census of Wetlands International, South Asia, which conducts the exercise every January across Asia and Australia. “Ropar is a riverine wetland with hardly any vegetation; but there are farmlands along the riverbanks where geese and ducks go for feeding. However, farmers try to keep them away from their land. This explains the dip in the number of bar-headed geese and ruddy shelduck which could have moved to other areas,”

23.                        FLRP (Food Legumes Research Platform) – Madhya Pradesh – collaboration of ICARDA & ICAR; Giving a fillip to agriculture research in the country, the government will set up a Food Legumes Research Platform (FLRP) at Amlaha, Sehore in Madhya Pradesh with its satellite hubs in West Bengal and Rajasthan. 'In principle' approval of the Cabinet for conferring on the Food Legume Research Platform of ICARDA an international status as contemplated in Clause 3 of the United Nations (Privileges and Immunities) Act, 1947. Authorizing the Department of Agricultural Research (DARE) on behalf of Government of India in all matters regarding establishment of the Platform. Authorizing the Ministry of Agriculture to carry out technical modifications in the Supplementary Agreement signed between ICAR and ICARDA relating to establishment of FLRP, if required. Refer: Pulse Action Plan;

24.                        Port led Development – Sagarmala Project – Minor & Major Ports of India – Coastal Regulation Zone – Inland Water ways Authority (1986 – 30+ years) and CIWTC 1967 (50+ years); Major & Minor Port of India  - Sagarmala Port-led Development – News (1): Quality Council of India, an independent agency set up by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (Ministry of Commerce) with the involvement of Assocham, CII and FICCI, was appointed to conduct the study under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. In the rankings Haldia Dock emerged as the No. 1 and Visakhapatnam Port No. 2 among the major ports in India in maintaining cleanliness. News(2): Kandla port in Gujarat will soon be connected with Iran’s Chabahar port, which will give a boost to India’s international trade and place the Indian port firmly on the global map. News(3): Protest against the Major Ports Authority Bill, 2016 - The Major Port Authorities Bill, 2016, will replace the Major Port Trusts Act, 1963 - The bill is aimed at reorienting the governance model in central ports to the landlord port model, in line with successful global practices. In the LANDLORD PORT MODEL, the publicly governed port authority acts as a regulatory body and as landlord, while private companies carry out port operations—mainly cargo-handling activities. Whereas in the service port model, the port authority owns the land and all available assets—fixed and mobile—and performs all regulatory and port functions. News(4): The proposal to build a port in Subarnarekha in Odisha has raised serious questions over the economic viability of two upcoming ports in Sagar and Tajpur in neighbouring West Bengal. Why does the west coast of India have more ports than the east coast?

a.        West coast is coast of submergence (except Malabar Coast) while east coast is an emergent coast. These imply that sea is deeper in west coast than sea on east coast. So, west coast has favourable conditions for natural harbours.

b.      West Rivers form estuaries and eastern rivers form delta. Therefore it becomes difficult for ships to reach the east coast covered with sediments.

c.       High Tides hit coast real hard. So coastal erosion, natural ports

d.      Continental shelf on east extends up to 500 km into the sea, so, difficult to develop good ports and harbours. Ships can enter and leave only during tides. But this does-not mean we cannot have ports in this condition. Some of the world's well known ports are located on Continental shelves like London, Singapore, Hong Kong.

e.       Historically, British India had trade contacts mainly with the Western world & Arabs. So natural choice was ports on Eastern coast. 

25.                        The Ministry of Shipping, as a part of its ‘Green Port Initiative’ has been emphasizing on use of renewable sources of energy to power Major Ports across the nation. It may be recalled that a MoU was signed between Indian Ports Association (IPA) and Solar Energy Corporation of India on the 15th of October, 2015 for the development of solar power projects at Major Ports. This is a new initiative by Major Ports which has been taken in line with the ‘Green Port Initiative’ policy of the Government of India.

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Most Expected Area 2017

Science & Technology

1.      Nuclear Medicine - Nuclear medicine scans, used to detect a variety of cancers and for thyroid, renal, and cardiac diseases diagnosis, have been put on hold in hospitals; NUCLEAR SCANNING procedures at major government and private hospitals have come to a halt due to the sudden non-availability of Technetium 99 generators, used in the transport of radioactive imaging medicine, after a new government order saying the imported generator must have quality clearance. The generators are suddenly in short supply because of an order issued by the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI); Earlier, the import was being monitored by Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB); Refer: Recently in News Note (1) – Institute of Nuclear Medicine and Allied Sciences INMAS – DRDO’s Delhi based Bio-medical & Clinical Research Lab - clinical research in nuclear medicine and non-invasive imaging methods with a focus on biological radio-protectors and thyroid disorders;  Note (2): INMASEAL Gel; Note (3): BARC – recently developed portable kit for detection of chromium contamination;

2.      Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality? Difference: Augmented Reality (AR) generally involves superimposing virtual images on top of what you actually see. Virtual reality (VR), by comparison, entails completely covering your eyesight and showing you artificial imagery. In News (1): Virtual Reality technology like laser scanning or high-definition imaging can create accurate three-dimensional representations of heritage sites. In News (2):  Global Hospitals Hyderabad organised the first-ever live VR surgical training for 700 doctors and students from across India.; Recall: Augmented Reality blends virtual reality and real life, but users continue to be in touch with the real world while interacting with virtual objects around them, so they can distinguish between the two. Virtual Reality creates an entirely fabricated world, that users would find it difficult to tell the difference between what is real and what is not. VR is usually possible by wearing a VR helmet or goggles while AR does not require users to wear special glasses. Perspective – Google’s API (Application Programming Interface);

3.      ICANN (now begun to operate in a MULTI STAKEHOLDER MODEL – free from US law); Issue/ Concern: By virtue of ICANN remaining incorporated in US, and subject to US laws, the US Congressional committees or the Senate committee can summon ICANN executives to get insights into ICANN's actions and plans. The same power is not available with other governments; hence challenges positioning of ICANN as a transnational institution devoid of any US links; the next ICANN meeting, the first post the transition to a multi-stakeholder model is set to take place in Hyderabad in India in November. ICANN will work with India's stakeholders, including the Centre, to develop a structured framework focusing on fostering the development of the DNS (Domain Name System) industry in India. Recall: Net Neutrality, Differential pricing, OTT Apps;  Refer: ITU; News (2): "ICANN is a technical organization and does not have the remit or ability to regulate content on the internet," Russia and China, among others, had backed the idea of empowering an obscure United Nations body called the ITU (International Telecommunications Union – Specialized Agency – HQ: Geneva 1965 – updated regulations ITR at Melbourne 1988) with internet governance duties. That would have given governments control, but it also would have diminished the relative importance of tech powers like the States. News (3): The Telangana government announced that it will be hosting the World Congress on Information Technology (WCIT) in association with the country's apex IT body, National Association of Software and Services Companies (Nasscom) and global IT organization World Information Technology and Services Alliance (WITSA), with the theme 'Future Enterprises' at Hyderabad in 2018. This is the first time that the global event will be held in India.

4.      IoT (Internet of Things) - The interconnection via the Internet of computing devices embedded in everyday objects, enabling them to send and receive data. Typically, IoT is expected to offer advanced connectivity of devices, systems, and services that goes beyond machine-to-machine (M2M) communications and covers a variety of protocols, domains, and applications. In 2013 the Global Standards Initiative on Internet of Things (IoT-GSI) defined the IoT as "a global infrastructure for the information society, enabling advanced services by interconnecting (physical and virtual) things based on existing and evolving interoperable information and communication technologies". News (1): Chinese telecom gear maker Huawei is in talks with India’s telcos to deploy narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT) technology to address the connectivity needs of industries, helping the carriers to create new revenue streams amid severe competition.  NB-IoT is a new technology standard designed to broaden the future of IoT connectivity. Ratified by 3GPP, a telecoms standards body that works to develop future generation wireless technologies, NBIoT provides improved network coverage for communications, supports deeper coverage and a large number of connections, while lowering power consumption.  Related News: Driverless car accident (2016) - Legal, Technical, ethical & moral aspects of a society driven by AI Technology – IEEE framework for AI – Ethically Aligned Designed – Similar to Isaac Asimov’s law of Robotics (1) No harm to Human (2) Obey Orders (3) protect its own existence (1942); #75 years (#Interview 2017)

5.      Optical Computing -  CNT Light Emitter – Carbon Nano Tube – Building Optical Computing Chips- Refer: Quantum Computing vs Optical Computing: Quantum super position to the Binary Code whereas Optical computing use speed of light without heat, so energy loss.

6.      C-DOT – Recently in News (1): Centre for Development of Telematics (CDoT), state-run telecom research and development company, has successfully built and demonstrated the world's first open standards-based machine-to-machine (M2M) communications platform (July 2016). M2M is commonly referred to cellular network-driven remote communication between two entities or machines for automation needs, and its application varies from smart appliances to smart home systems and connected vehicles.  News (2) : Centre for Development of Telematics (C-DoT) has developed a mass market 'public data office' (PDO) tech solution priced under Rs 50,000 to DELIVER LOW-COST WI-FI SOLUTIONS (April 2017) The service will be provided over a licence-free ISM (industrial, scientific and medical) band. C-DoT, a government-owned telecom research and development centre, will unveil its PDO solution. News (3): C-DoT WiFi Technology got approved by Railways. Note (1): The Centre for Development of Telematics is an Indian Government owned telecommunications technology development centre. It was established in 1984 with initial mandate of designing and developing digital exchanges. It is a registered society (No. S/14839 of 1984) under the SOCIETIES REGISTRATION ACT, XXI of 1860. Administered under Ministry MeiTy;

7.     TAMRA Portal and Mobile Application to ensure transparent award of Statutory Clearances for Mining Operations. It will be an interactive platform for all the stakeholders to compress the timelines for statutory and other clearances as it would help minimize the gestation period for commencing production. Also Refer: Apps developed by/for GoI – Various MOBILE APP developed by GoI – BHIM, Hawa Badlo, RajVayu, Surya mitra, ….. News (2): DoT’s Tarang Sanchar Portal to clear the air over mobile tower emissions; News (3): Vikalp -  new rail reservation system – Alternative Train Accommodation System (ATAS)  - for overcrowded railway network - Temporary solution -  we need a smart traffic management solution; News (4): GAMA website -  Grievance Against Misleading Advertisment -  new consumer protection law; News (5): The "Hawa Badlo App" introduced by Environmental Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA), appointed by the Supreme Court to improve the air quality in Delhi and NCR, allows people to report incidences of air pollution through it. News (6): Install RajVayu and Drishti to know about Rajasthan's air quality; News (7): Surya Mitra - The Mobile App was developed by National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) which is an autonomous institution of Ministry of New & Renewable Energy (MNRE). This innovative mobile approach shall enhance the employment of trained youth in solar PV technology News (8): GARV II App - Grameen Vidyutikaran (GARV) App - to provide access to electricity to all households in the country. Under this module, village-wise and habitation-wise base line data on household electrification for all States. News (9): AirSewa Portal: One Stop Solution For Hassle Free Air Travel;  News (10): First time in the world under the scheme National Mission on Bovine Productivity ‘e-pashuhaat’ portal has been developed for connecting breeders and farmers regarding availability of bovine germplasm. News (11): Hind-Iran portal (hindirantrade.org) is a joint initiative of STC and Douman Queshm, Iran. An Online Portal for facilitating trade between India and Iran was launched by Additional Secretary, Department of Commerce in the presence of Ambassador of Islamic Republic of Iran, CMD, STC, and other Directors of STC. News (12): Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare as he released the “Healthy India Initiative/Swastha Bharat-ek pehal” magazine and launched the “No More Tension” Mobile Application; News (13): 75 more Adarsh Monuments protected by ASI have been identified to be included in the ‘Swachh Paryatan Mobile App’ launched by the Ministry of Tourism. News (14): Minister of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, announced successfully completion of e-NAM first phase and launched e-NAM Mobile App in New Delhi. News (14): Bharat Ke Veer – Web portal / App – Apirl 9 – Valor day – CRPF role in 1965 war; News (15): Ministry will launch two mobile apps – e-Challan and m-Parivahan -  during the week. e-Challan is a comprehensive digital solution for transport enforcement and traffic police that is integrated with Vahan and Sarathi applications. m-Parivahan is a citizen centric app that will facilitate access to various transport related services. The app provides for virtual driving license and registration certificate through back end connection to Transport National Register.  If a vehicle number is entered into the app, it will give full details of the car and the owner including his DL and RC. This will provide a way to check genuineness of a vehicle and driver, help in passenger safety when hiring a driver or when buying a second hand vehicle. News (16): Toka Paisa – E Wallet launched by Assam Government;

8.      Centrchroman - A non-steroidal contraceptive pill developed by Central Drug Research Institute (CDRI) has been included in the National Family Planning Programme (NFPP) – Announced by Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (April 2016). Recently in News (2): The basket of choices in family planning was expanded as the ministry introduced three new methods in the National Family Planning program – Injectable Contraceptive DMPA (Antara) – a 3-monthly injection, Centchroman pill (Chhaya) – a non-hormonal once a week pill and progesterone-only pills (POP) – for lactating mothers.

9.      Gravitational Waves: Ripple in the fabrication of Space & Time; News (1): First LIGO Site in India – Hingoli/ Maharashtra; News (2): NGARI – Gravitational Wave Telescope – Indo-Tibet Border; News (3): Gravitational waves: Third detection of deep space warping - The signals were picked up by the Advanced LIGO facilities in the US and are determined to have come from the merger of two huge black holes some three billion light-years from Earth. News (4): Gravitational Waves (GW) were the last prediction of Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity. The first direct detection of gravitational waves was announced on 11 February by the Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO). Using LIGO's twin giant detectors — one in Livingston, Louisiana, and the other in Hanford, Washington — researchers measured ripples in space-time produced by a collision between two black holes. This is the first major detection by LIGO experiments after more than a decade in operation. The new discovery is truly incredible science and marks three milestones for physics: (1)  Direct detection of gravitational waves.(2) The first detection of a binary black hole system. (3) The most convincing evidence to date that nature’s black holes are the objects as predicted by Einstein’s theory. Recall: LIGO(US), VIRGO(Italy), INDIGO (India); Note: Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO): A large-scale physics experiment and observatory to detect cosmic gravitational waves. And to develop gravitational-wave observations as an astronomical tool. Two large observatories were built in the United States with the aim of detecting gravitational waves by laser interferometry. Gravitational-Wave: Gravitational waves are 'ripples' in the fabric of space-time caused by some of the most violent and energetic processes in the Universe.  The strongest gravitational waves are produced by catastrophic events such as colliding black holes, the collapse of stellar cores (supernovae), coalescing neutron stars etc., PTR: (1) Gravitational waves are a prediction of the Theory of General Relativity; (2) It took decades to develop the technology to directly detect them; (3) They are ripples in the fabric of space-time generated by violent events; (4) Accelerating masses produce waves that propagate at the speed of light; (5) Detectable sources should include merging black holes and neutron stars; (6) LIGO fires lasers into long, L-shaped tunnels; the waves disturb the light; LIGO-India will also bring considerable opportunities in cutting edge technology for the Indian industry which will be engaged in the construction of eight kilometre long beam tube at ultra-high vacuum on a levelled terrain. 

10.  Pokhran II Test (1998) and AGNI series;

11.  Solar Eclipse – During a total solar eclipse the moon almost entirely covers the sphere of the sun. During solar eclipse moon comes in between Earth and Sun. The difference between solar and lunar eclipse: The total or partial obscuration of Sun’s light from an observer on earth is called solar eclipse and that of the moon is called the Lunar eclipse. Recently in News Note (1) A rare solar eclipse is happening across the US on August 21. It will be the first time since 1918 that a solar eclipse has crossed the country; and Refer: Bailey’s Beads – Near the beginning & end of total solar eclipse, the thin slice of the sun visible appears broken up into beads of light(UPSC Mains 1996);

12.  The Aadhaar-like unique identification of livestock could ensure traceability of animals from birth to death. In Europe, cattle tagging helps in tracing of animals for veterinary purposes, which is of crucial importance for the control of infectious diseases.  In Canada, there is permanent radio frequency identification (RFID) tags for cattle. Mad cow disease is a fatal neurodegenerative disease that slowly destroys the brain and spinal cord (central nervous system) in cattle. The disease can be transmitted to humans if they eat the brain or spinal cord of cattle.

13.  Fullerite is a molecular crystal similar to the previously discovered with fullerene molecule. Fullerene is a spherical molecule of carbon atoms which was first synthesized over 30 years ago, and was awarded the Nobel Prize. Carbon spheres in fullerite may be packed in different ways, and the hardness of the material strongly depends on how the fullerenes are connected to each other.  Natural diamonds have a hardness of nearly 150 gigapascals (GPa), but this ultrahard fullerite has as it could be between from 150 to 300 gigapascals. Fullertie could be almost twice as hard as diamond.

14.  Commemorating 50th Anniversary of the first United Nations Conference on the Exploration and Peaceful Uses of Outer Space (UNISPACE + 50).

15.  Indian Astronomical Unit – India’s 10 Meter Class Telescope – Hanle/ Ladak; (#Prelims 2017) Indian Astronomical Observatory (Hanie Ladahk): One of the world's highest sites for optical, infrared and gamma-ray telescopes.

a.     Currently the second highest optical telescope in the world, situated at an elevation of 4,500 meters

b.     The Observatory has two active telescopes. These are the 2.01 meter optical-infrared Himalayan Chandra Telescope (HCT) and a High Altitude Gamma Ray Telescope (HAGAR).

c.      ASTROSAT is Space based observatory whereas Ground based observatory GMRT (Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope/ Pune);

d.     Also Recall from old CA: SOFIA (NASA’s Airborne Observatory), TMT (Hawaii –India & 4 countries), FAST (China), MAST (Solar Observatory), MACE (Cerenkov Experiment – Gamma ray Telescope – Ladakh - BARC); HiSCORE (Russia – Gamma Ray Telescope);

5. Other Related News: Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES),an autonomous research institute of Department of Science and Technology (DST), on the occasion of the ‘Remote Technical Activation’of the 3.6m diameter Devasthal Optical Telescope (DOT) at Manora Peak near Nainital. The DOT facility will fill this gap and facilitate Indian astronomers for multi-wavelength observations including follow-up studies of astronomical objects detected at radiowavelengths by the Giant Metrewave Radio Telescope (GMRT), Pune and at UV/X-raywavelengths by the ASTROSAT, the first dedicated Indian multi-wavelength astronomical satellite.

15. Fast Breeder Reactor – Prototype FBR (PFBR) at Kalpakkam( TN) – constructed by BHAVINI (PSU)/ Dept of Atomic Energy – attain criticality by May 2016 - The sodium cooled mixed oxide fuelled pool type reactor being built at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu is the world’s first reactor for commercial use; Refer (1): India’s Three Stage Nuclear Programme; Refer (2): IAEA- For 50 years, IAEA’s activities in research and technology development of fast neutron systems have been implemented within the framework of the Technical Working Group on Fast Reactors (TWG-FR). Estb. 1967; Note (1): What is FBR? Fast reactors are a type of innovative nuclear reactors that offer some key advantages over traditional thermal reactors in safety, sustainability, and radioactive waste. Operating in a fully closed fuel cycle, they have the potential to extract 60-70 times more energy from uranium than existing thermal reactors and contribute to significant reduction in radioactive waste. There are currently two commercial fast sodium cooled reactors operating in Russia, as well as three experimental fast neutron reactors in China, India and Russia. Several prototypes have been permanently shut down. A number of new innovative fast neutron reactors are under development and construction. In News - Note (2): Nalco has adopted the EMRION-Nano technology for the first time globally for effluent treatment. The technology can be put to use in fluoride affected regions and benefit the society; Related News: All IAEA member states are eligible for support, although in practice technical cooperation activities tend to focus on the needs and priorities of less developed countries. The Technical Cooperation program provides support in the following areas: health and nutrition, food and agriculture, water and the environment, energy planning and nuclear power, industrial applications and radiation technology, safety, and nuclear knowledge development and management. Support is delivered through fellowships and scientific visits, training courses, workshops and seminars, expert assistance, and the provision of equipment and materials.

2.      Antrix – commercial arm of ISRO – 1992 (#25 years)

3.      IRS (Indian Remote Sensing Satellite) – ISRO – Two solar array of Cartosat-2 series were deployed – ISTRAC took the control (ISRO Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network) – First of the series CARTOSAT-2A launched in 2007 then followed by B,C, D,E and still one more remaining; (#Prelims 2017 – Cartosat);

4. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on November 11, 2016 at Tokyo, Japan between the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the Japanese Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA) for cooperation in the field of outer space. This MoU provides scope for pursuing cooperation in various areas of space science technology and applications including: eearth observation, satellite communication and navigation; exploration and space sciences; Research and development (space systems and space technology); and Space industry      promotion. India and Japan pursue space cooperation for more than 5 decades and carried out studies in the field of atmospheric study, observation of universe and scientific investigation in remote sensing. With the formation of JAXA in 2003, an "arrangement concerning the considerations of potential future cooperation in the field of outer space" was signed in October 2005 between ISRO/ Department of Space (DOS) and JAXA. Subsequently both agencies have signed cooperative documents addressing lunar exploration, satellite navigation, X-ray astronomy and Asia Pacific Regional Space Agency Forum (APRSAF).

5.     Technology Development Board (TDB) of India – 20^th Anniversary celebration – 2016 Theme: “Strategizing Commercialization through Technology and Innovation”; (#Prelims 2017)

6.      Japan – NOZOMI ( Mars Orbiting Aeronomy Probe 1998 – then terminated in 2003) – now Japan planning for MELOS ( Rover Mission to Mars – Mars Exploration of Life organism search 2015 originally planned as a Lander & Orbiter mission in 2008); Refer: Planet B – first Interplanetary mission by Japan;

7.      The Kessler syndrome (also called the Kessler effect, collisional cascading or ablation cascade), proposed by the NASA scientist Donald J. Kessler in 1978, is a scenario in which the density of objects in low earth orbit (LEO) is high enough that collisions between objects could cause a cascade where each collision generates space debris that increases the likelihood of further collisions. News (1): Japanese Space Agency – Kounotori Experiment -  Clearing Space Debris;

8.      Waste Management in India: News (1): It was declared that a cash prize of Rs 150,000 ($2,330) would be given to three ragpickers and three associations involved in innovative waste management. More than a year later there is no information available about the scheme.  News (2):  The government is planning solutions and devices for waste management using internet of things (IoT). The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology is examining a proposal to use IoT for waste management as part of its Smart City programme. News (2): To streamline e-waste management, the government notified Electronic Waste (Management and Handling) Rules, 2011 that became effective in May 2012. These rules are based on extended producer responsibility (EPR), a popular framework across the world for e-waste management. EPR makes manufacturers of electronic products responsible for the end-of-life management of their products. They have to set up collection centres and ensure that waste is recycled and disposed of in an environment-friendly manner. All collection centres, dismantling units and recyclers must register with state pollution control boards and comply with their norms. The e-waste rules were amended recently (effective October 2016) and now include collection targets as well as a requirement that producers implement a deposit-refund system (DRS).  News (3): The National Green Tribunal has recently levied a penalty on the incineration plant at Okhla in Delhi for its violations of emission norms, but residents in the neighbourhood of Okhla have approached the Supreme Court with a public interest litigation for relocation of the plant. NITI’s Draft Action Agenda neither incorporates lessons from the experience of incineration plants in Delhi, nor does it take note of the many success stories of biomethanation in a number of Indian cities, including some large cities. News (4): The government said in a statement that bio-medical waste received from hospitals, dispensaries and laboratories may contain bio-hazardous contaminants and germs of serious diseases such as Hepatitis B and Tetanus. All such waste treatment facilities are governed by the Bio Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016 under which waste are to be disposed properly while taking steps to go for recycling of plastic-made products. News (5): India’s old tradition of kabadiwalas and recycling of paper, glass, plastic, etc, becomes a contributing factor to the low calorific value of our municipal waste. A study by the United Nations Environment Programme in 2009 found that India’s informal recycling sector “recovers much of the dry, high calorific material leaving a moist residue with high green waste content unsuitable for production of combustible ‘fluff’ without considerable pre-treatment (that is, drying).” Recall: Solid Waste Management, E Waste Management, Medical Waste Management, Plastic Waste Management;

9.      BARC’s Nisargaruna Technology (since 2001 in different IIT & TISS) and Biomethanation - Biomethanation process degrades biological or organic compounds to generate biogas and manure. Biogas is a mixture containing carbon dioxide and methane in varying proportions and a small quantity of hydrogen sulfide gas. First plant in Pune; Nisargaruna Technology is kitchen waste/ biodegradable waste based Bio-Gas Plant;  Also Refer: Bioremediation, Bioventing, Bioleaching, Bio-augmentation, Bio-stimulation;

10.  First 2G Ethanol Bio-Refinery in Punjab;

11.  Nutrition transition is the shift in dietary consumption and energy expenditure that coincides with economic, demographic, and epidemiological changes. Under nutrition is now an issue for only a few countries, with just 7% of the population of Europe and Central Asia affected. But 13% of the population faces the so-called TRIPLE BURDEN of under-nutrition, micronutrient deficiencies and Over-nutrition;

12.  Natural Infrastructure - Natural infrastructure (NI) solutions arrayed across different scales, from buildings to landscapes in rural, urban, terrestrial, freshwater, coastal and marine areas, hold huge potential. NI solutions include constructed wetlands that are used for industrial processed water and waste-water treatment, substituting traditional waste-water treatment infrastructure. Oyster reefs and seagrass beds can decrease erosion and protect coastal areas from storms, while also filtering contaminated seawater and supporting local fisheries. SDGs particularly SDG9 (resilient infrastructure), SDG 13 (climate change) and SDG 15 (reverse land degradation) while addressing business needs and deriving benefits from NI solutions. Refer: World Bank WAVES programme, Natural Capital Protocol, WBCSD Natural Infrastructure for Business platform.

13.  Energy Conservation Building Code (2007)

14.  Green corridor in Railways;

15.  Atomic Energy Act, 1962 – 55 Years Now….

16.  Zika virus – first in UGANDA (1947) – 70 years now – Refer: GBS & Microcephaly associated diseases;

17.  Evolution of Telecom and Telecom revolution in India?

18.  Human Genome Project (1988/US) -  Decoding the DNA sequence and order of Genes; Bioinformatics? Human Gene contains DNA and which inturn contain Nucleotides;  Contain Chemical Blocks called A(adenine), C (Cytosine), G(Guanine),T(Thymine) Frozen semen Technology? Embryo Transfer vs Transgenic Animal? DNA Recombinant Technique? Therapeutics? For curing Disease; Dolly (1996) – note +20 years – Roslin Institute (Scotland) by SCNT (Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer);

19.  Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology: Current Affairs: MaHyCo Monsanto Issue? (May – June 2016)– Bt Cotton pricing and royalty; Note: MaHyCo ( Maharastra Hybrid seed Company) – founded by Dr. B. R. Barwale – 1998 World Food Prize ( WFP) winner WFP is conceptualized by Norman Bourlang – first prize (1987) given to M S Swaminathan – who is called Father of Green Revolution in India; ICAR also provide award “ Norman Bourlang Chair” – National Professor status for 5 years with 2.5 cr grant – for 2016 it was given to Assam Scientist Bidyut Kumar – for Chickpea research.

a.       GM crops? Genes of commercial interest are transferred form one organism to another. Two method: ‘Gene Gun’ and ‘Bacterium method’

b.      Transgenic Plants vs Hybrid Plants? Transgenic is offspring of Genetic Engineering – it contain at least one unrelated organism – Virus, Bacteria, Animal, Plant; Whereas Hybrid plants are offspring of two genetically unrelated parents (Eg: Cross pollination);

c.       Genetic Material? DNA is the hereditary material found in the nucleus of eukaryotic cells ( Plant & Animal) and the cytoplasm of prokaryotic cells ( Bacteria) that determines the composition of the organism. RNA decodes genetic information in DNA and all cellular organisms use messengerRNA (mRNA) to cary the genetic information that directs protein synthesis. In virus, RNA is the genetic material. Also Refer:  Genetic Screening? Genetic testing is a type of medical test that identifies changes in chromosomes,genes, or proteins. The results of a genetic test can confirm or rule out a suspectedgenetic condition or help determine a person's chance of developing or passing on a genetic disorder. DNA Fingerprinting? (British/Alec Jeffrey/ 1984) The technique helps in identifying an individual at molecular level. This Technique can be used in identification of criminals, by checking saliva, hair, drop of blood, semen; (only exemption is ‘Twins’) Genotype and Phenotype? GEAC in India? Cartegena Protocol?

20. Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) - Vaccine: Gardasil and Cervarix; Eliminated Diseases: Small Pox (1975), Polio (2014) and MNT Tetanus (2015); Refer: Mission Indradanush – Universal Vaccination Programme; UIP – 7 +4 Vaccine – Refer? Priority Vaccine: Pneumococcal conjugate, HPV Vaccine, Influenza Vaccine. Note: Universal Immunization Programme - Under UIP, Government of India is providing vaccination free of cost against ten vaccine preventable diseases i.e. Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, severe form of Childhood Tuberculosis, Hepatitis B and Meningitis & Pneumonia caused by Hemophilus Influenza type B across the country; Japanese Encephalitis in JE endemic districts and Rotavirus diarrhoea in selected states. The Government is introducing Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) under UIP in a phased manner. In 2017, the vaccine is being introduced in parts of Bihar, parts of Uttar Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh as per the recommendations of the PCV expert group. The recommendations to introduce new vaccines have been made after numerous scientific studies and comprehensive deliberations by the National Technical Advisory Group of India (NTAGI), the country’s apex scientific advisory body on immunization.  The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Government of India has launched Mission Indradhanush on 25 December, 2014 as a special nationwide initiative to vaccinate all unvaccinated and partially vaccinated children under the Universal Immunization Programme and sustain it by health system strengthening by 2020.

21.  Silica Aerogel – World’s lightest Synthetic Material- developed by ISRO - wide application - "Blue Air" since it contains 99% air- It is also called “Frozen Smoke” used in Light clothing, Paint, Insulate Rocket Engine, Window glazing... What is Silican Aerogel? It is a Nano-Structured material with high specific surface area, high porosity, low density, low dielectric constant and excellent heat insulation properties.

22. Biofertilizers are defined as preparations containing living cells or latent cells of efficient strains of microorganisms that help crop plants uptake of nutrients by their interactions in the rhizosphere when applied through seed or soil.  They accelerate certain microbial processes in the soil which augment the extent of availability of nutrients in a form easily assimilated by plants. Several microorganisms and their association with crop plants are being exploited in the production of biofertilizers. They are - Nitrogen fixing, Phosphate Solubilizing, Potassium mobilizing, Biofertilizers for micro nutrients like zinc solubilizing biofertilizers.
23. Ban on Potassium Bromate - The government banned use of potassium bromate as a food additive following a CSE study that found its presence in bread as causing cancer. The Food Safety Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), however, has referred potassium iodate -- also claimed to be carcinogenic used as a food additive -- to a scientific panel. The CSE study had found that 84 per cent of 38 commonly available brands of pre-packaged breads, including pav and buns, tested positive for potassium bromate and potassium iodate. These two food additives are banned in many countries and listed as "hazardous" for public health. According to CSE, potassium bromate typically increases dough strength, leads to higher rising and uniform finish to baked products while potassium iodate is a flour treatment agent. Note (1): Ascorbic acid or Vitamin-C is considered a healthy alternative to potassium bromate. Glucose oxidase is another option approved by FSSAI in 2015. Other food improvers and flour      treatment agents approved by law include ammonium persulphate, ammonium chloride and amylases.

24.  The first leap second was added in 1972, so it will be the 27th time it has been added to clocks in history, meaning that everyone has gained 27 seconds over the past 44 years. It is the task of scientists and officials at the International Earth Rotation Service, based in Paris, to monitor the planet's rotation and inform countries when leap seconds must be added six months in advance.

Most Expected Area 2017

International Affairs & Institutions

1.     BTIA Bilateral Trade & Investment Agreement (struck up since 2007) -  Open up EU markets for India’s services sector and allow free movement of people to deliver services – India EU Strategic Partnership begins in 2004; (#Prelims 2017) News (2):  India cancelled Bilateral Agreement – have bought 2016 Model Law – Non Discrimination Treatment: Exemption: (1) Govt. Procurment (2) Taxation (3) Subsidies (4) Compulsory license (5) National Security; Apprehension of International community: (1) MFN concept is missing (2) Mandate local litigation ( ISDS International Arbitration after exhausted local choice) (3) Regulatory Risk (Retrospective changes in the policies could not be challenged) (4) no mention about multilateral Investment court; Issue: Investment versus State Right to Regulate;

2.     Venezuela – (1)Internal Political Problem; (2) NAM – 17^th Summit at Venezuela (Margarita) – started in 1961 (India, Egypt & Yugoslavia) – Note: 1^st Summit @Belgrade/ Yugoslavia, 7^th Summit @New Delhi and 16^th Summit @Tehran; So for Prelims 2017: Geographic location, Major Economic Activities; Refer Map: Savanna Tropical Grassland – Llanos; Further refer NAM & Panchasheel for Mains 2017; Problem at Venezula: Socialist policy of Governance affected due to multiple reasons like falling oil price across the globe (90-95% Export Revenue of the country comes from OIL); Participatory Democratic Communal Councils – to execute Community Development programme – successful in 2000 -2010 (Poverty, Literacy, Income Equality, Quality of life); Recent Problems: Nationalized key Industries, Inflation – 3 digit, falling oil price, failure of social programme – people went against govt.; Democratic Institution weakened, Economy mismanaged; Chemical Weapon Convention 1997 – Hague based OPCW (Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapon) – (1) Destroy weapon (2) Monitor Industry (3) Protection of State (4) Fostering International Cooperation; Note: Chemical Weapons – Mustard, Sarin, Tabun, VX Agent;  Nuclear Proliferation Treaty 1970 – safeguard system responsibility with IAEA 1957 – HQ Vienna and Regional Office – Toronto & Tokyo; Objective: (1) Nuclear Energy for Peaceful purpose and (2) Nuclear Security; Refer: AFPO (Atoms for Peace Organization); Conference on Disarmament Comprehensive Nuclear Weapons convention – for legally binding treaty yet to be adopted; UNODA ( office of Disarmament) Refer: Reactor grade Uranium 3-5% enriched; Weapon grade Uranium 90% enriched;

3.      Hague based OPCW – implements Chemical Weapons Convention – came into force in 1997 ( +20 years); (already in UPSC 2016 – anyways – just look objectives & recent inititatives)

4.      BIMSTEC (1997) – 20 years Now…. BMIC Corridor; BCIM Economic Corridor overshadowed by China’s OBOR – Refer: Kunming – Mandalay (Myanmar) – Imphal – Silchar(India) – Dhaka -Jessore (Bangladesh) – Kolkatta; Refer: BIMSTEC – Motor Vehicle Agreement; (#Prelims 2017) BIMSTEC Framework Agreement on Transit, Trans-shipment and movement of vehicular traffic; Also refer: BIG B( Bay of Bengal Industrial Growth Belt) - Japan & Bangladesh bilateral effort to influence – Intraregional connectivity; Note: Jaipur based Think Tank CUTS International – suggest TOURISM CORRIDOR as an effective precursor to BUSINESS CORRIDOR as it could attract investment; News (2): The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization comprising seven Member States namely Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand. The regional group acts as a bridge between South and South East Asia and represents a reinforcement of relations among these countries. The objective of building such an alliance was to harness shared and accelerated growth through mutual cooperation in different areas of common interests by utilizing regional resources and geographical advantages. Unlike many other regional groupings, BIMSTEC is a sector-driven cooperative organization. Starting with six sectors—including trade, technology, energy, transport, tourism and fisheries—for sectoral cooperation in the late 1997, it expanded to embrace nine more sectors—including agriculture, public health, poverty alleviation, counter-terrorism, environment, culture, people to people contact and climate change—in 2008. New (3): The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is an international organisation involving a group of countries in South Asia and South East Asia viz. Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal. The "Plan of Action for Energy Cooperation in BIMSTEC" was formulated in the first BIMSTEC Energy Ministers' Conference held in New Delhi on October 4, 2005. 

5.      SAARC Related: News(1): The Legislature-Parliament has ratified the statute of the South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN). The SAWEN provides a platform for the member countries of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) to work together in the fight against the burgeoning wildlife crime. It focuses on harmonisation of policies and laws; strengthening institutional capacity; sharing of knowledge, experiences and technologies among the member countries; and promoting collaboration with national, regional and international partners to enhance the wildlife law enforcement in the region. News (2): SAARC Disaster Management Centre (SDMC) developed by the Gujarat Institute of Disaster Management (GIDM).  Gujarat State Disaster Management Authority (GSDMA) was developed after the 2001 earthquake. News (3): ISRO sent the Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) on its 11th flight into space. Nicknamed the 'naughty boy of ISRO', GSLV carried the South Asia Communication Satellite to place it into its designated orbit. The South Asia Satellite will cater to the communication needs of all the SAARC countries except Pakistan, which pulled out of it in, what seemed as its attempt to sabotage the project. Of all the eight SAARC nations, India, Pakistan and Sri Lanka have their own satellites. The rest don't have their own space programmes. Pakistan's Space and Upper Atmospheric Research Commission (SUPARCO) is working on a remote sensing satellite. This is slated for launch in 2018 by a Chinese space vehicle. News (4): Convert BBIN into regional grouping - Member countries of SAARC are allowed to form sub-regional groups such as BBIN (Bhutan, Bangladesh, India and Nepal). Geographical contiguity, access to sea and vast natural resources and demographic advantage are some of the USPs of BBIN, which if nurtured can yield sustained benefits. Manufacturing is a key factor that can pull in all other economic activities. Since India has a more broad-based and robust manufacturing sector. This had been the recipe for the rise and success of ASEAN. News (5): SAARC Motor Vehicle Agreement for the Regulation of Passenger and Cargo Vehicular Traffic amongst SAARC Member States. The BBIN connectivity project hit a stumbling block with Bhutan unable to get the necessary parliamentary ratification to implement the Motor Vehicles Agreement; The BBIN project was conceived when Saarc at its 18th Summit in Kathmandu failed to sign a Saarc Motor Vehicles Agreement in November 2014—chiefly because of Pakistan. Saarc comprises Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka, who traded among themselves goods and services worth $20 billion in 2013-14, a 12.36% rise over the previous year. But India’s plan seem to have hit a stumbling block with Bhutan unable to get the necessary parliamentary ratification to implement the Motor Vehicles Agreement that would see the movement of trucks among the four BBIN countries. News (6): The eight nations composing the South Asia Initiative to End Violence Against Children (SAIEVAC) are assembling in New Delhi from 9th-11th May, 2016 for their 4th Ministerial Meeting. SAIEVAC is the Apex Body of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) created to bring governments of the region into active engagement for child protection against violence. SAARC made history in 1986 by installing children as a ‘summit-level concern and commitment.’ The forthcoming 4th Ministerial Meeting marks 30 years since that SAARC summit commitment.News (7): As per National Civil Aviation Policy 2016, Government has planned to enter into an 'Open Sky' Air Service Agreement on a reciprocal basis with SAARC countries and countries with territory located entirely beyond a 5000 km radius from New Delhi. Unlimited flights above the existing bilateral rights will be allowed directly to and from major airports within the country as notified by the Government time to time. However, the points of call at other airports under the existing Air Service Agreement will continue to be honoured till the same are renegotiated.  News (8): SAARC Business Card Project - The India Business Card is issued to those businessmen from SAARC countries who are eligible for issuance of a multiple entry business visa for a period of three years or more. First batch of 96 India Business Cards to businessmen from SAARC countries has been issued. The issue of India Business Card is ongoing process.

NOTE: SAARC was founded in Dhaka on 8th December, 1985. Its secretariat is based in Kathmandu, Nepal. The organization promotes development of economic and regional integration.^[5] It launched the South Asian Free Trade Area in 2006. States with observer status include Australia, China, the European Union, Iran, Japan, Mauritius, Myanmar, South Korea and the United States. Summits: Dhaka (1985),         2^nd Bengalure (1986), 8^th New Delhi (1995), 14^th New Delhi (2007), 18^th Kathmandu (2014), 19^th Islamabad (2016 – Cancelled); Refer: Charter of SAARC? We, the Heads of State or Government of BANGLADESH, BHUTAN, INDIA, MALDIVES, NEPAL, PAKISTAN and SRI LANKA; Desirous of promoting peace, stability, amity and progress in the region through strict adherence to the principles of the UNITED NATIONS CHARTER and NON- ALIGNMENT,   particularly respect for the   principles of sovereign equality, territorial integrity, national independence, non-use of force and non-interference in the internal affairs of other States   and peaceful settlement of all disputes; Note: Afghanistan not signed the Charter since then;

6.      WTO related: News (1): India and the US are heading for another face-off at the World Trade Organization (WTO). As efforts to settle a dispute amicably fail, India has approached the WTO to set up a panel to decide whether it has complied with the multilateral body’s ruling on a poultry case in 2015 that went in favour of the US, sources told FE. The dispute settlement body (DSB) of the WTO will take up India’s request; News (2): India blocked the World Trade Organization (WTO) General Council from approving an agenda to discuss investment facilitation on grounds of mandate, triggering an uproar and the suspension of proceedings. India has consistently maintained that there is no merit for any proposal on investment facilitation at the WTO, as investment falls outside the trade body’s mandate. It has emphasized that a multilateral agreement on investment will undermine its “policy space” and “right to regulate investment” in strategic sectors. Marrakesh Agreement of 1994 that do not allow investment facilitation to be discussed at the WTO; News (3):  India has asked members of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) group, including Australia and New Zealand, to abide by their multilateral commitments on the movement of professionals, in an effort to guard against growing protectionism across the developed world that could hurt India’s information technology sector. RCEP is a grouping of 10 members from the Asean grouping and India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand, which has been negotiating a trade deal since May 2013. News (4):  Several countries deflated India’s proposal for a comprehensive agreement on facilitating global trade in services at the World Trade Organization (WTO), suggesting that it lacks a mandate under the unfinished Doha Development Agenda trade negotiations, according to negotiators familiar with the development. News (5): The WTO’s dispute settlement body set up a panel to resolve the dispute between Japan and India over imposition of safeguard import duty on iron and steel products. In September 2015, India imposed provisional safeguard duty of 20% on import of certain categories of steel with a view to protect domestic producers. Later in November 2016, the government slapped the final duty. Japan in December dragged India to the WTO against certain measures taken by New Delhi on imports of iron and steel products. Japan, which is the second largest steel producer in the world, had alleged that duties imposed on steel imports by India violates WTO trade norms. The dispute assumes significance as India and Japan implemented a comprehensive free trade agreement in 2011. It gave easy access to Japan in the Indian steel market. Indian industry has time and again demanded to take out the steel sector from the pact. But it can happen only after both the sides agree to do the same. News (6):  India, South Africa, US oppose G20 draft on investment facilitation The US, India and South Africa have pulled the plug on a draft deliverable on investment facilitation proposed by the German presidency at a G20 technical experts meeting in Berlin. It listed four actions by G20 countries—transparency, predictability and consistency (in investment policies), efficiency, and stakeholder relations.;  Recall: Nairobi Package, Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA);

7.      Domestic Content Requirement for 20GW under JNNSM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission) – Violation of National Treatment Provision of Article III:4 of WTO;

8.      BREXIT:

9.      MTCR Related: India joined the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) as its 35th member on 27th June 2016. MTCR membership is expected to ease the access to high technology for India’s space programme. It will help us to move up the technology value chain by facilitating tie-ups for Make in India including in the defence sector. India’s entry into the regime would be mutually beneficial in the furtherance of international non-proliferation objectives. India joining MTCR would benefit our space development programme in:-  (i) Strengthening our international cooperation activities in high technology areas with other space faring nations. (ii) Easing the procurements & supplies of export controlled high/ advanced technology items, components, materials, and equipment from other countries, especially MTCR partner states. (iii) Enhancing our commercial ventures in terms of export of sub-systems, satellites and commercial launch services etc. India as a major space faring nation and as a partner state in MTCR could play critical roles in various international fora such as UNCOPUOS, UN Conference on Disarmament (CD) and other space related international fora in major policy decisions relating to space applications, space security topics. India, as a Partner State of MTCR, can take part in the decision making process in ensuring non-proliferation of sensitive space technology related items, which are controlled through a list (called Technical Annex) and reviewed & revised annually through Technical Experts Meetings. Related News (1): New Delhi has access to high-end testing technology for its solid rocket booster propulsion system, which fires up the first stage of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV). Related News (2): The Indian Army carried out a second successful test of the BrahMos Block-III Land Attack Cruise Missile (LACM) in two days in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The range of the supersonic cruise missile has been extended to 450 km from the earlier 290km. The upgrade to the extended range BrahMos comes after India's entry into Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) in Jun'16. MTCR prevents the proliferation of missiles and UAVs beyond 300-km range. The government approved the deployment of BrahMos Block-III in Arunachal Pradesh to counter China's military infrastructure along the 4,057-km Line of Actual Control. Note: INDO-RUSSIA JOINT VENTURE AGREEMENT 1998; Refer: Ballistic vs Cruise Missile - Ballistic missiles are powered for the initial half of their flight path and they use gravity to complete their trajectory. But cruise missiles are powered throughout. 

Note: The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) is a multilateral export control regime. It is an informal and voluntary partnership among 35 countries to prevent the proliferation of missile and unmanned aerial vehicle technology capable of carrying above 500 kg payload for more than 300 km. The Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) established in April 1987  by the G7 countries: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States of America. The People's Republic of China is not a member of the MTCR but has agreed to abide by the original 1987 Guidelines and Annex, but not the subsequent revisions. China first verbally pledged that it would adhere to the MTCR in November 1991. In their October 1997 joint statement, the United States and China stated that they agree "to build on the 1994 Joint Statement on Missile Nonproliferation." In 2004 China applied to join the MTCR, but members did not offer China membership because of concerns about China's export control standards. Israel, Romania and Slovakia have also agreed to voluntarily follow MTCR export rules even though not yet members.

10.  ESCAP: The United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP) marked its 70th Anniversary at the opening of the annual Commission session in Bangkok (May 2017) - Seventy years ago ESCAP was created to help our region recover from war and conflict. Our region’s growth story since then has been remarkable. But as long as poverty and inequality persist, ESCAP will remain focused on the future, on supporting growth and sustainable development across Asia and the Pacific. Note: Founded in 1947, as the then Economic Commission for Asia and the Far-East, to assist the region’s countries with economic reconstruction in the devastating aftermath of the Second World War, the Commission’s geographical scope and mandate were expanded in the 1970s to reflect changes on the ground. (#Prelims 2017) News (2): Signing and ratifying the Inter-Governmental Agreement on Dry Ports of International Importance - The agreement will also lead to strengthening of connectivity and seamless international movement of goods, facilitate increased efficiency and reduce cost of transport and logistics as well as extend reach to inland areas and wider hinterlands;

11.  NAFTA:

12.  UNESCO Related: News (1): World Science Day for Peace and Development – 10^th November every year – Theme of 2016 - The 2016 World Science Day for Peace and Development is dedicated to the theme “Celebrating Science Centres and Science Museums”. The UNESCO General Conference in 2001, proclaimed that Nov 10 will be observed as the World Science Day for Peace and Development to recall the commitment made at the UNESCO-ICSU World Conference on Science (Budapest 1999) -- the importance of science in and for society and that science, peace and development are interlinked. "Our starting point is clear. Science stands at the heart of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda, the Sendai Framework for Action, and the Paris Agreement on Climate Change. News (2): A United Nations agency said it had "serious concern" about coral bleaching on Australia's Great Barrier and urged the government to work faster to improve water quality in the region. Refer (1): Coral Bleaching – Causes & Effects? Refer (2):  Coral Triangle Initiative by WWF – Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Timor, Solomon Island (6 Countries); Refer (3): Global Coral Reef Monitoring Network/IUCN; Refer (4):

13.  BRICS Related: News (1): Role of youth in fostering intra-BRICS bonds has been recognized during the past Summits. Youthful democratic profile of most BRICS countries combined with their economic-vibrancy can be an asset in consolidating exchanges between BRICS countries. It is in this context that BRICS Youth Summit, 2016 is being organised at Guwahati (Assam) from 1st to 3rd July, 2016. The Theme for the Summit is “Youth as bridge for Intra-BRICS Exchanges”. The subjects to be covered by thematic debates are (i) Skill Development and Entreneurship, (ii) Social Inclusion, (iii) Youth Volunteerism and (iv) Youth Participation in Governance. The programme for the Summit also includes thematic debates, cultural events, site-visits and interactive sessions with local youth. The Youth Summit would also be an occasion to introduce India’s North-East to BRICS youth.  News (2): Goa Declaration at 8th BRICS Summit - the Leaders of the Federative Republic of Brazil, the Russian Federation, the Republic of India, the People's Republic of China and the Republic of South Africa, met on 15-16 October 2016 in Goa, India, at the Eighth BRICS Summit, which was held under the theme "Building Responsive, Inclusive and Collective Solutions.” Recall: NDB, CRA,  News (3): BRICS Disaster Risk Reduction meet adopts Udaipur Declaration - Mainstreaming of disaster risk reduction, use of advanced technology in providing early warning, need for adequate funding to deal with rehabilitation and reconstruction after a disaster and the impact of climate change on disasters are common challenges faced by all of us. The deliberations have been very useful and we got an opportunity to learn about the disaster management structure, system and processes followed in other BRICS countries. 

14.            Union Cabinet under the Chairmanship of PM has given its approval for signing of a MoU on General Cooperation with New Development Bank (NDB) through the BRICS Interbank Cooperation Mechanism by Government at the level of Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs/ Export Import Bank of India.

15.            The 1st BRICS Trade Fair was organized in New Delhi;

16.            India will host the 8th BRICS Summit, in Goa on 15-16 October 2016 during its Chairmanship of BRICS, which it assumed on 15 February 2016.As the precursor the same, the 4th BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation Ministerial Meeting was convened on 8 October, 2016 at Jaipur.

17.  WMO: News (1): The World Meterological Organization (WMO) that crowned the 2016 as the warmest year now predicts 2017 will be hotter and could be the hottest year in living memory. News (2): Cyclone MORA - The cyclone, which has already hit Bangladesh, formed after heavy rains in Sri Lanka that caused floods and landslides killing at least 180 people -- the worst flooding in 14 years on the island has affected the lives of more than half a million people.  Born in Sri Lanka, cyclone Mora got its name from Thailand. "Mora" is a Thai word, which means "star of the sea" or "sea star". According to Hurricane Research Division, tropical cyclones are named to provide ease of communication between forecasters and the general public regarding forecasts, watches, and warnings. A name helps people and the media to identify each cyclone and become more aware of its implications. Eight countries in the North Indian Ocean region -- Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Oman, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Thailand -- have contributed a set of names which are assigned sequentially for whenever a cyclonic storm develops. They came up with a list of 64 names -- eight names from each country -- for upcoming cyclones. The World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), a Geneva-based agency of the United Nations (UN), maintains the lists of given names. News (3): An 1888 hailstorm in India has been identified by the UN weather agency among all-time deadliest weather events. This is the first time that the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) Archive of Weather and Climate Extremes have broadened its scope from temperature and weather records to address impacts of specific events. Now, for the first time, the WMO has established the cyclones, tornadoes, lightning strikes and hailstorms that caused the most deaths.  News (4): The AgriMet Department of the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has devised an elaborate system to help more than 40 lakh farmers in the country with timely weather-based crop advisories to plan the agricultural cycle. Now this system, which sees extensive usage of information and communication technology, is all set to be replicated in Bhutan and seven other developing countries across the world. This move comes as part of a global initiative by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO) to help the agricultural sector to deal with the growing threat of climate change in developing nations. The WMO’s Global Framework of Climate Services (GFSC) calls for developed and developing countries to share information and technology to help under-developed countries to come up with climate-resilient agricultural practices and to develop a strong climate information service system. Note: Geneva based Inter-Governmental Organization – Specialized agency of UN – Established in 1873 by ratification of WMO Convention; Refer: Tropical Cyclone – Eye, Eye-wall, Rain-band;

18.  Act East

19.  nsar Allah movement (known as Houthis) – Yemen;

20.   Asian Development Bank (ADB) on completing its 50 years and serving the people of Asia-Pacific region.

21.  ASEAN and IORARC; Indonesia, IORA’s current chair, has also been talking up its importance as a maritime security vehicle for a vast and vastly diverse region that includes some of the world’s poorest countries as well as two of the most important trade routes, the Strait of Hormuz and the Strait of Malacca. (IORARC 1997 – Security + Commerce – 20 years now) #Prelims 2017;

22.            Beijing – China is willing to work with members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) to fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC); On the occasion of ASEAN’s 50th anniversary this year, Geng said China will support important consensus in building the ASEAN community, maintaining centrality in regional cooperation, and playing a bigger role in international and regional affairs.

23.             In the event organized to commemorate the 25th year of the ASEAN-India relations, the Minister urged the participating countries to ensure that Indian telecom products and services should become their number one choice as they accelerate the digital connectivity initiatives. 

24.            The ASEAN Secretariat, in partnership with Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR) launched the ASEAN Declaration “One ASEAN, One Response: ASEAN Responding to Disasters as One in the Region and Outside the Region” Declaration is a commitment from ten ASEAN Member States to provide faster and collective response to disasters in and outside the region.

25.  International Vaccine Institute (1997) – 20 years – Under UN; India’s taking full membership of the International Vaccine Institute (IVI) Governing Council. International Vaccine Institute (IVI), Seoul, South Korea, established in 1997 on the initiatives of the UNDP, is an international organization devoted to developing and introducing new and improved vaccines to protect the people, especially children, against deadly infectious diseases. International Vaccine Institute (IVI), Seoul, South Korea, established in 1997 (# for Prelims 2017) on the initiatives of the UNDP, is an international organization devoted to developing and introducing new and improved vaccines to protect the people, especially children, against deadly infectious diseases. In the year 2007, with the approval of Cabinet, India joined IVI. India is a long-term collaborator and stake-holder of IVI. In December, 2012 the Board of Trustees (BOT) of IVI approved the formation of its new governance structure. As per the new governance structure of IVI, a member State has to contribute to the IVI by paying a portion of its core budget. Since India is classified in Group-I, it has to pay an annual contribution of US $ 5,00,000. Note: National Vaccine Regulatory Authority – News : The Minister informed that WHO has termed the 100% compliance in the WHO assessment (benchmarking) of the Indian vaccine regulatory system as another ‘landmark achievement’. The previous WHO assessment (benchmarking) of the Indian vaccine regulatory system was conducted in 2012 during which institutional development plan (IDP) and the road map for strengthening the NRA were developed. Pointing out to the introduction of newer vaccines in the country’s full immunisation basket through the nationwide introduction of pentavalent vaccine, and the phased roll-out of Rotavirus vaccine and Measles Rubella vaccine, Shri Nadda stated that the Ministry is confident that India shall meet all its global commitments in the healthcare sector as a result of these focussed endeavours. In addition, Mission Indradhanush has strengthened the full immunisation drive of the Government, the Health Minister stated.  World Health Organisation has, based on a robust benchmarking tool developed over years of consultation with various experts drawn from across the globe, carried out assessment of the National Regulatory Authority (NRA) of India comprising the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO), State Drug Regulatory Authorities, Pharmaco-vigilance Programme of India (PvPI) and Adverse Events Following Immunization (AEFI) structures at the Central and States levels. The nine functions included in the tool are National Regulatory System; Registration and Marketing Authorization; Vigilance; Laboratory Access and Testing; Regulatory Inspection; Clinical Trial Oversight; NRA Lot Release; Licensing Premises; and Market Surveillance and Control. 

26.  Indus Water Treaty – Indo Pak - Indus River System - Tributaries ;

27.            BTIA Bilateral Trade & Investment Agreement (struck up since 2007) -  Open up EU markets for India’s services sector and allow free movement of people to deliver services – India EU Strategic Partnership begins in 2004; (#Prelims 2017); India cancelled Bilateral Agreement – have bought 2016 Model Law – Non Discrimination Treatment: Exemption: (1) Govt. Procurment (2) Taxation (3) Subsidies (4) Compulsory license (5) National Security; Apprehension of International community: (1) MFN concept is missing (2) Mandate local litigation ( ISDS International Arbitration after exhausted local choice) (3) Regulatory Risk (Retrospective changes in the policies could not be challenged) (4) no mention about multilateral Investment court; Issue: Investment versus State Right to Regulate;

28.            PM modi gng to participate as Chief Guest of 21st st.petersburg International Economic Forum(SPIEF) - June 1,2(2017) - Plan to Celebrate 70th Anniversary of Estb. Of Diplomatic Relations b/w India & Russia

29.             International Solar Alliance – one of the objectives is to $1 trillion investments in the solar sector by 2030; signing of framework agreement is to be followed by ratification by the countries; The agreement will become operational after at least 15 countries ratify it; Note: one-third of the fund will come from World Bank Administered Fund;

30.             

Other Important Topics – Most Expected

11.  Kumbh of Himalayas - A once-in-12-years carnival of Buddhist spirituality, culture and tradition, the fourth edition of the Naropa festival;  17th century Hemis monastery of Drukpa lineage, the largest such in the Himalayas.

12.  All India Scheduled Castes Federation (1942) – founded by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar  – Now 75 years;

13.  Hindu College Calcutta (1817) established by Raja Ram Mohan Roy  – Now 200 years; also University of Calcutta (1857) – 160 years;

14.   

Check list – Other related topics

1.      At the meet of National Bioresource Development Board (NBDB), Department of Biotechnology - Indian Bioresources Information Network (IBIN), the first web enabled portal for proper integration of spatial and non-spatial data. This is the first comprehensive information system, integrating all aspects of bioresources related data (spatial and non-spatial). The first Butterfly Bank of the country has been established at Bannerghatta Biological Park, Bangalore which serves as an integrated centre for research, education and rural livelihood. The NBDB was established under the aegis of DBT in 1999 with a vision to ensure development and sustainable utilization of bio resources for food and nutritional, environmental and livelihood security.

2.      CASPOL is a room temperature curable, water based formulation having self-extinguishing properties, good adhesion and water repellence characteristics. It is based on ceramic composition dispersed in an aqueous polymeric emulsion containing flame retardant components. (flame proofing coating - ISRO)

3.      Estuaries are usually biologically highly productive zones. They also act as a filter for some dissolved constituents in river water; these precipitate in the zone where river water meets seawater. More important is the trapping of suspended mud and sand carried by rivers which leads to delta formations around estuaries. Major estuaries occur in the Bay of Bengal. Many estuaries are locations of some of the major seaports. Most of the India’s major estuaries occur on the east coast. (Source: NIO/CSIR website)

4.      Urja Ganga gas pipeline project was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in his constituency Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. A pipeline of length 2540-km is planned to be laid across the states from Uttar Pradesh to Odisha.  The prime minister, as part of Give up LPG subsidy, appealed to the country in 2015 to give up their subsidised gas cylinders so that the money could be used to supply cooking gas to rural and poor areas. The scheme is an add-on in the campaign.

5.      The India Biodiversity Awards recognise excellence in biodiversity governance across the country, Launched in 2012, by the Ministry of Environment Forests and Climate Change in partnership with the United Nations Development Progamme. (I)Conservation of Threatened Species: (1) The Greater Adjutant bird, is found only in two areas in India and Cambodia. Purnima Devi Barman and the women’s Hargilla army protect this endangered species increasing nests three-fold in six years. (2) The group introduced the Hornbill Nest Adoption Programme in Pakke Tiger Reserve, Arunachal Pradesh, which has managed to protect 62 active hornbill nests and help 60 hornbill pairs breed successfully; (II)Sustainable use of Biological resources - Mawkyrnot Self Help Group: The Living Root Bridges(2015 Prelims question - also mentioned in NCERT); (III)Successful Mechanisms/ Models for Access and Benefit Sharing: Gram Mooligai Co. Ltd., Madhya Pradesh involves local communities in developing medicinal plant products and markets, aimed at sustainable use and equity; (IV)Biodiversity Management Committees: The Dudhai Biodiversity Management Committee in Uttarakhand has banned illegal sand mining and revived river ecosystems;

6.      Olive Ridley Turtle - Vulnerable under IUCN Red Data Book and these turtles and their products is banned under CITES Appendix I - Note: Yanadi Tribes in conservation of Olive ridley turtle; Refer: Krishna Wildlife sanctuary and Bhitarkanika Wildlife Sanctuary (under Ramsar convention), Gahirmatha Beach; Olive Ridley Turtle occurs in the tropical and hot waters of Pacific and Indian Oceans - known as Pacific Ridley Sea Turtle;

7.      MoEF declare animal as VERMIN under Wildlife Protection Act 1972...animal which cause damage to farm crops - wild boar,  rhesus monkey, nilgai... Under this act state send a list to the centre requesting such declaration...

8. The vadose zone, also termed the unsaturated zone, is the part of Earth between the land surface and the top of the phreatic zone, the position at which the groundwater (the water in the soil's pores) is at atmospheric pressure.

9.     Daroji slith bear sanctuary – hambi ;

10. The Extra Neutral alcohol or ENA is a high distillated alcohol without any impurities and others destinated to be used in the high cosmetic industry, perfumeries as well as for the production of alcoholic beverages such as whisky, vodka, gin, cane, liqueurs and alcoholic fruit beverages and aperitifs.

11.  The world's biggest X-ray laser has generated its first beam of light, that will allow scientists to get a glimpse of new materials, drugs and chemical reactions at the atomic level.

12. India and European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN) signed an agreement today making India an Associate Member State of CERN. India is one of the leading partners in the ALICE experiment, which is on a quest to unearth the physics of quark-gluon plasma (QGP) and to get a glimpse of how matter behaved within a few microseconds after the birth of our Universe.

13.   

Check list – Basic Terminologies & Concepts

1.      Solar day & Sidreal Day? the time between two consecutive transits of the First Point of Aries. It represents the time taken by the earth to rotate on its axis relative to the stars, and is almost four minutes shorter than the solar day because of the earth's orbital motion.

2.      Osmosis & Reverse Osmosis: Osmosis is a naturally occurring phenomenon where the solvent (the substance in which other materials remain dissolved) moves from a region of lower concentration to that of a higher concentration through a semipermeable membrane to equalise the solution’s overall concentration. Reverse osmosis (RO) does the opposite. RO is essentially a pressure-driven process where a semi-permeable membrane is used to separate suspended and dissolved solids from water. News (1): Sustained governmental support has enabled Tamil Nadu to contribute 24% of the total desalinated water capacity in India, making it the second best in the country after Gujarat. The Minjur Desalination Plant, India’s largest, was set up in the village of Kattupalli along the northern fringes of Chennai city in 2010. The second desalination plant came up at Nemmeli, about 35 km south of Chennai city along the East Coast Road. Functional since 2013;

3.      Tea and Coffee Plantation in India – Climate, Geographical condition, production etc…

4.      Sugar cane cultivation and Sugar Industries in India;

5.      Salt Production in India

6.      Circum-pacific Belt

7.      Dharwar Rock System

8.      Gama Decay

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