INTERNATIONAL
First Women’s TV Channel launched in Afghanistan
The first ever Women television channel “Zan TV” (or Women’s TV) has started in Kabul, Afghanistan. It has been started on May 30, 2017 with a staff of all female presenters and producers. The main purpose to launch the women TV Channels is to highlight the rights of Afghan Women and to improve their status and ensure their equality with men in the conservative society. It has been taken a crucial step for Women’s rights, in a male dominated country which is struggling for peace.
Apple opens first official store in South east Asia
Apple opened its first Southeast Asia store in Singapore on 27 May, 2017. It was drawing hundreds of excited fans to the swanky two stores site in the city’s up market shopping district. Located on the affluent Orchard Road, the new shop easily distinguished by its iconic glass facade is expected to be one of the most popular Apple stores in the World according to US tech giant. Merchandise such as the iphone and Macbook were strategically placed on display across the spacious first floor, while the upper level acted as a classroom for customers to participate in hands on sessions.
Mark Zuckerberg gets honorary Harvard Degree
Facebook founder Mark Zuckerberg received an honorary doctorate degree from Harvard University. He dropped out of the lvy league school to focus on Facebook. He started Facebook in his Harvard dorm room in 2004. The social network was initially limited to Harvard students only. It later expanded to other lvy league Universities, before being rolled out globally. Now, Mr. Zuckerberg is the World’s fifth richest person.
Egypt blocks 21 Media Websites, including Al-Jazeera
Egypt has blocked 21 media websites including the main website of Qatar based Al-Jazeera news channel for allegedly supporting terrorism, as per reports by one of the countries local news agencies. According to sources, the blocked websites also include some Egypt focussed Websites hosted abroad such as Masr Al Arabia. There claims from the Egyptian Government that the websites are being financed by Qatar. They were blocked inside Egypt of having content that supports terrorism and extremism.
Taiwan Court rules in favour of same sex marriage, first in Asia
Taiwan’s constitutional court has declared that same sex couples have the right to legally marry. This is the first such rule in favour of same sex marriage in Asia. The court gave the country’s parliament a period of two years for laws to be amended to allow same sex marriage. Without a doubt, Taiwan is walking in front of other Asian countries in favour of same sex marriage.
Omar Hegazy becomes first amputee to swim across Red Sea
Egyptian Swimmer Omar Hegazy has become the first amputee to swim across Red Se’s 20 km Aqaba Gulf from Egypt to Jordan. Hegazy, a 26 year old banker who lost his left leg in a motorcycle accident. Aqaba Gulf is a large gulf at the northern tip of the Red Sea. Its coastline is divided between four countries. Egypt, Israel, Jordan and Saudi Arabia.
Mumbai and Kota among World’s most Crowded cities
World Economic Forum refers UN-Habitat data named two Indian cities Mumbai and Kota among the World’s most crowded cities. Dhaka, the capital of Bangladesh has population density of 44,500 people per square Kilometer. Mumbai has a population density of 31,7000 people per square kilometer. Kota in Rajasthan with 12,100 people per square kilometer has been ranked seventh in the list.
PM Modi Calls for Creation of Asia Africa Growth Corridor
PM Narendra Modi on 23 May 2017 called for the creation of an Asia Africa growth corridor for the development of Africa. Modi called for the creation of this corridor while inaugurating the 52nd Annual Meeting of African Development Bank (AfDB) at Mahatma Mandir in Gujarat Gandhinagar. The core theme of the Annual Meeting is “Transforming Agriculture for wealth creation in Africa. “The meeting AfDB is a five day event that will witness about 3,000 delegates from 81 member countries.
70th World Health Assembly Kicks off in Geneva
The 70th World Health Assembly opened on 22 May 2017 at Geneva based UN headquarters in Switzerland. The World Health Assembly is the main decision making body of the World Health Organization (WHO). The Member states of the WHA will elect a new Director General, who will take office for a five year term on 1 July 2017. The three nominees from Ethiopia, Great Britain and Pakistan were address the Health Assembly for 15 minutes each on 23 May 2017.
UN releases the First Draft of Nuclear Ban Treaty
The United Nations on 22 May 2017 released the first draft of the nuclear ban treaty that would legally prohibit the possession of Nuclear Weapons. It would also require the states to make a pledge to never use the weapons and also to never develop, produce, stockpile, transfer or test them. The draft also rejects the concept of nuclear deterrence promoted by nuclear armed countries. The Draft was released in Geneva by Costa Rican UN Ambassador Elayne whyte Gomez . It condemns the use of nuclear weapons a violation of International humanitarian law.
Japan to build war museum in Manipur for Japanese soldiers
Japan will build a war museum at the hillock at Maiba Lokpa in Manipur. Japanese Ambassador to India Kenji Hiramatsu has announced. Hiramatsu said that around 70,000 Japanese soldiers had died during World War II in Imphal and Kohima, between the months March and June in 1944. Meanwhile Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has offered to assist the Japanese Government.
NASA honours APJ Abdul Kalam by naming new species after him
NASA paid tribute to late President of India APJ Abdul Kalam by naming a newly discovered organism after him. As of now, the bacterium named “Solibacillus Kalamii” by NASA scientist Kasthuri Venkateswaran, is found only on the ISS, which is orbiting Earth at 400 KM. Kalam had trained at NASA in 1963 before setting up India’s first rocket launching facility in Kerala.
Gujarat gets its First Woman Police Chief
Geetha Johri, an IPS officer of the 1982 batch was appointed the new Gujarat DGP, Johri becomes the State’s first woman police chief. Johri was in news of her role in the SIT probing post Godhra riots and as investigating officer in the Sohrabuddin Shaik and Tulsiram Prajapati fake encounter case. She was the supervisory officer of Sohrabuddin encounter case in 2006-07 when the CID investigated the case following the opex court's direction.
Indian American Nominated for Key Post in FERC
US president Donald Trump Nominated Indian American Neil Chatterjee as a member of Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) FERC is an agency responsible for overseeing America’s power grid and deciding on multibillion dollar energy projects. He is the second Indian American appointed by Donald Trump to a major regulatory position.
Made in China C 919 passenger jet takes maiden flight
The twin engine, 158-174 seat passenger jet made by state owned Commercial Aircraft Corporation it feature several imported elements like German landing Gear and Austrian interior. Single aisle plan carry up to 168 passengers and is meant to rival Airbus and Boeing Aircraft. China’s first domestically made regional jet, the twin engine regional AR 121, flew its passengers in June 2016.
Trump’s Obama care replacement bill passed by US House
In USA, lawmakers vote to repeal and replace Obamacare with makes Quality health insurance more affordable and available to the Americans. The Republican bill is knows as the American Health Care Act. It would repeal more Obamacare taxes, including a penalty for not buying health insurance. The bill would slash funding for medicaid, a program that provides insurance for the poor replacement.
China to launch its own Encyclopaedia as a Rival to Wikipedia
China plans to launch its own online encyclopaedia next year rivalling Wikipedia and Britain’s Encyclopaedia Britannica. The Main objective of this project is to guide public thought. China fears that its citizens who use Wikipedia are being corrupted by foreign influences. For the compilation of the project, nearly 20,000 Scholars and academics have been tasked to created more than 300,000 entries before its 2018 launch.
Dubai becomes First City in World to gets its Own Microsoft Font
Dubai has become the first city in the World to have its own Microsoft designed font. The font will have typeface both in Latin and Arabic script. It will be made available in 23 languages. The font was launched by the crown prince of Dubai Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. Not content with having the world's tallest building and biggest shopping centre, Dubai has become the first city to get its own font.
INDIA & WORLD
India, Spain inks seven agreements
India and Spain have signed seven agreements following talks between PM Modi and his Spanish counterpart Mariano Rajoy at the Moncloa palace in the Spanish Capital on 31 May, 2017. The visit of Pm Modi is the first visit by the Indian Prime Minister to Spain in nearly 30 years. The last Prime Minister to Visit Spain was Rajiv Gandhi in 1988. Spain is India’s 7th largest trading partner in the European Union, Bilateral trade between both the nations have totalled USD 5.27 billion in 2016.
India to be first in World to run all govt ports on green energy
All 12 major domestic ports in India will soon switch to renewable energy to meet their power requirements. Thus India will become first in the world to run all govt ports on green energy. Indian Govt is planning to install 150 mw of solar power and 50 mw of wind power generation capacity by year 2019. The resulting 200 mw of renewable energy generation capacity will be ramped up to 500 mow in the next few years. Total initial investment in the project is expected to be Rs. 500 crore.
India, Fiji Sign MoU on Defence Cooperation
In an endeavour to strengthen defence ties between India and Fiji, the two nations on 29 May, 2017 signed a Memorandum of understanding (MoU) on defence cooperation. Minister of Defence and National Security of Fiji, Ratu Inoke Kubuabola accompanied by his delegation met Minister of Defence Arun Jaitley. A MoU on defence cooperation envisaging several areas of cooperation including in defence industry, military training and humanitarian assistance and disaster management.
Taj Mahal among top 10 global landmarks
Taj Mahal, the magnificent monument of love, has made it to the top 10 landmarks in the World by securing fifth position in the list. One of the most iconic wonders in the World, the Agra based imposing white marble structure, a tourist delight, is the only indian monument to figure in the the World’s top 10 Travellers Choice awards for landmarks Angkorwat in Cambodia topped the list followed by Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Centre in Abu Dhabi (UAE) Mezquita Cathedral cordoba in Spain and St peter’s Basilica in Vatican city (Italy).
India becomes second largest steel producer in the World
According to data released by the International Stainless Steel Forum (ISSF), India has become the second largest stainless steel producer in the World after China. The International Stainless Steel Forum is a non-profit research and development organization which was founded in 1996. It serves as the focal point for the International stainless steel industry. India overtook Japan which was the second largest producer last year.
Start UP India Summit to be held in Dubai
Dubai will host a two-day “Startup India Summit in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) with Consulate General of India (CGT) Dubai and Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi in partnership with Indian Software product Industry Round Table (iSPIRIT). This is the first “Startup Summit” being held in the UAE. India is the third largest ecosystem in the World leading in tech innovation.
India Ranks at 154, below Sri Lanka and Bangladesh, on health care Index
India has Ranked 154th among 195 countries on health care Index in Lancet Medical Journal’s report titled “Global Burden of Disease”. Performance of countries was assessed for a period of 25 years from 1990-2015, based on death rates from 32 diseases that could be avoided by effective medical care. This study has been funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. During 2008 – 20, it is expected to clock a compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 16.5%.
Election Commission of India Launches National Contact Centre
The Election Commission of India has launched National Contact Centre with a toll free number – 1800111950. The move would enable any citizen from any port of the country to call on the toll free number and get their query or complaint addressed at any time of the day in Hindi or English. The National contact centre is operated on a National Grievance Redressal system software.
India to replace its research station in Antarctica
India has decided to replace the Maitri research station in Antarctica with a new area in the next three to four years. The country is also drafting laws to safeguard its interest in Antarctica and is poised to expand its research activity in the coldest continent. The Maitri station will be replaced by a new station in the next three to four years.
Eager Lion Jordan, US launch major military exercises
Jordan and the United States Kicked off annual military exercises known as “Eager Lion’, with about 7,400 troops from more than 20 nations taking part in it. The manoeuvres would include border security, cyber defence, and “command and control” exercises, to booster coordination in response to threats including terrorism. A global strike mission will be conducted by two US Air Force B – 1 B bomber aircraft. It is the 7th exercise and largest and most complex.
Indian Born Hinduja Brothers top UK’s rich list
The India Born brothers Srichand and Gopichand topped the ‘Sunday Times Rich List 2017’ released and the annual rankings showed that they had added 3.2 billion pounds to their personal fortune in a year to be worth an estimated 16.2 billion pounds. Steel tycoon Lakshmi Nivas Mittal was ranked fourth in the list, released by the Indian High Commissioner to the UK Navtej Sarna. The fortune of Mittal, however has plummeted by 3.3 billion pounds to finish with 6.4 billion pounds.
India Organized Festival in Egypt to mark Tagore’s birth anniversary
India will organise Tagore Cultural Festival in Egypt to mark the 156th birth anniversary of Rabindranath Tagore from May 8 – 12. Tagore Cultural Festival will be organised by the Maulana Azad centre of Indian Culture (MACIC) which is the cultural wing of the Indian Embassy in Cairo. As a part of the festival, a dance drama based on Tagore’s work called “Chitrangada” will be performed by the Kolkata based Dancers Guild.
Facebook launches Express Wi – Fi in India
Facebook has launched its “Express Wi-Fi” in India. This Wi-Fi service is available through 700 hotspot in 4 states. Express Wi – Fi is a program of Facebook's global initiative to enlarge internet connectivity. Express Wi-Fi services are currently active in Kenya, Nigeria, Indonesia and Tanzania. Now, it will include the States of Gujarat, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Meghalaya, Facebook has also mentioned a partnership with Bharti Airtel.
NATIONAL
Amul Inks MoU with ISRO for Fodder Acreage Estimation
Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF) on 30 May, 2017 has signed an agreement with ISRO for fodder acreage assessment using satellite observation and space technology. GCMMF markets its products under the brand name of Amul. Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) ISRO will help in Identification between food crops and fodder crops at village level and also locate suitable areas of current fallows and cultivable wastelands at village level for green fodder cultivation.
Delhi Police launches Bicycle Patrols for better Policing
Delhi Police on 30 May, 2017 launched the Bicycle Patrols for better Policing in the capital. The Bicycle Patrols were flagged off by Union Minister of Home Affairs Hansraj Gangaram Ahir. In the first phase, a total of 65 high end bicycles have been operationalised, out of 65 bicycles, 30 were allotted for North East district, 20 for East district and 15 for Shahdara district. The scheme will be extended to other areas of Delhi as well.
PM Modi to lay foundation stone of bullet train project in September
PM Narendr Modi and Japan’s PM Shinzo Abe will together lay the foundation stone for the bullet train project in the Months of September. Mumbai Ahmedabad bullet train will have the speed of 320 km per hour. The construction work would continue for another five years. And mentioned that the government was committed to complete the project by the end of 2022. The high speed train between Mumbai and Ahmedabad is being constructed at a cost of Rs. 97,636 crore in collaboration with Japan.
Union Government launched new campaign “Darwaza Band” to promote Sanitation
The Union Government launched a new campaign called
Darwaza Band for the Promotion of toilet usage in the rural areas across the country. Bollywood Veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan, who leads the campaign, is proposed to be joined by Union Minister of Drinking Water and Sanitation Narendra Singh Tomar and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at the formal launch event to be held in Mumbai.
Defence Minister inaugurtes DRDO’s Aeronautical Test Range in Karnataka
Union Defence Minister Arun Jaitley inaugurated the Defence Research and Development organisation (DRDO)’s new Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) in Karnataka. The ATR is a facility under the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) which Works on a range of Unmanned air Vehicles (UAV);s It will be an integrated test center for the DRDO’s cluster of aeronautical laboratories like IISC, ISRO, BABA Nuclear Research organisation most of them in Bengaluru.
Prakash Javadekar launches Anti Ragging Mobile App
The Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar on 29 May, 2017 launched an Anti Ragging Mobile App. It has made by University Grants Commission (UGC). This mobile app will help students to register complaints on ragging. This app will work android system and students can login and register their complaints. One had to register a complaint against ragging and records showed that that timely action has
resulted in the decrease in such cases.
PM Modi lays Foundation Stone for IARI at Gogamukh
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi has laid the Foundation Stone of the Indian Agricultural Research Institute at Gogamukh in Assam's Dhemaji district located on the Assam Arunachal border. This will be the third Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI) Apart from IARI in the national capital, the work on setting up of second IARI in Ranchi, Jharkhand has commenced. The setting up of a new institute in envisaged to help in the overall development of agriculture sector in North – East India.
Kejriwal, Venkaiah Naidu flag off Delhi Metro Heritage Line
Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and Union Urban Development Minister, M. Venkaiah Naidu on 28 May, 2017 flagged off Delhi Metro Heritage Line through video
conferencing at Metro Bhavan in Delhi. Union Minister of
Science and Technology. Harsh Vardhan was also present at the event. This Heritage line will connect Old Delhi Areas with the commercial hub of Delhi at Janpath. This Heritage line comprises four stations Delegate,Kashmere Gate, Jama Masjid and Lal Qila on the stretch of 5.17 km.
Gadkari flag off Country’s First E-Vehicle Public Transport
Marking the third anniversary of the Narendra Modi Government, Union Surface Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari along with Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis flagged off taxi aggregator Ola electric Vehicle (EV) services in the city. Nagpur will be the first in the country to have such a service. A battery Charging station for the vehicles was also inaugurated at the airport where the launch function was held.
PM lays Foundation stone for AIIMS at Changsari in Assam
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of a Unit of the Delhi based. All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Changsari in Assam. The institute will be constructed at a cost of Rs.1123 cores as part of the “Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana”. The seven functioning AIIMS are located in New Delhi, Bhopal, Bhubaneswar, Jodhpur, Patna, Raipur and Rishikesh. The unit is expected to be completed within the next four years.
Union Minister Vijay Goel flags off Slum Yuva Daud
Minister of youth Affairs and Sports Vijay Goel Flagged of the Slum Yuva Daud to mark the beginning of the Adopt Slum Campaign in New Delhi. The run started from Delhi University’s Shankarlal Hall and ended at the Rugby Stadium with participation of about 5000 youngsters from various slums of Delhi. It was initiated by the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports and Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan.
Union Environment Ministry bans sale of Cattle for Slaughter
The Union Ministry of Environment and Forests recently ban the sale of all kinds of cattle for slaughter across India. The rules were issued under the prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. It requires anyone purchasing cattle to provide an undertaking that the animals are bought for agricultural purposes and not for slaughter. The Definition of Cattle includes balls, bollocks, cows, buffalos, steers, calves and camels. The new rule will be implemented in the next three months.
PM Modi inaugurates India’s longest bridge in Asom
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 25 May, 2017 inaugurated India’s longest bridge in Asom. It was built in Assam over the Lohit River, a tributary of Brahmaputra. The bridge will span 9.15 km to connect two small towns, Dhola at the river’s South bank and Sadiya in the north. The previous holder of the all-India record for bridge length, the Bandra Worli Sea link in Mumbai is 5.6 km long. The commemoration of three year anniversary of NDA govt time in power and one year anniversary of the BJP govt in Assam the inauguration was held.
Manoj Sinha launches BSNL’s satellite phone service
The Minister of State for Communications Manoj Sinha has launched, BSNL’s Satellite Phone Service, Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Telecom Skill Excellence Award scheme and Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Sanchar Kaushal Vikas Pratishthan's Scheme BSNL has played an important role in spreading communication network across the country. Global Satellite Phone services is modern satellite Phone service.
India’s First Underwater Rail Tunnel Completed in Kolkata
The two Organizations Afcons Trans Tondl stores and Kolkata Metro Railway Corporation Limited (KMRCL) implemented the India’s first underwater tunnel under the Hooghly river to link Howrah and Kolkata. The length of Kolkata’s East-West Metro is 16.6 km long. Out of which a length of 502 metres is under the Hooghly river. The East-West Metro will have 12 stations, six will be underground stations.
Govt launches ‘e SANAD’ for online Document Verification
The Human Resource Development Ministry and the External Affairs Ministry launched an online verification portal “e SANAD” to make the document Verification process easier for students who planning to study abroad. The Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) academic repository of degrees and certificates Parinam Manjusha” was also involved in the project of creating eSANAD. The Human Resources development Ministry launched this portal on 24 May, 2017.
Swachh Bharat App Launched in National Museum
“Swachh Bharat App” has been launched in National museum under Ministry of Culture by he Minister of State (I/C) for culture and Tourism Dr. Mahesh Sharma. The main focus of this “Swachh Bharat App” is to basically involve people actively to become part of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Clean India Movement). At present this app is available for Android Mobile Phones which can be downloaded from Google Play Store. This app will be monitored by the Ministry of Culture.
Cochin Port Trust Bags TWO Best Performance Awards
Cochin Port Trust has received two Best Performance Awards from Ministry of Shipping for the highest growth in operating surplus and also for achieving third highest growth in cargo traffic among the major ports in the year 2016-17. The awards were received from Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways and Shipping Nitin Gadkari by P.Raveendran, Chairman to Cochin Port Trust at a function held at Goa on 22 May, 2017.
Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu flags off Tejas Express from Mumbai to Goa
Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu on 21st May, 2017 flagged off the much awaited Tejas Superfast Express from Mumbai to Goa. The train, which will cover the distance 630 km in less than 9 hours. The train has Ultra Modern amenities on board like LED TV, Wi-Fi and CCTV. The Tejas Express would operate between Mumbai and Karmali (Goa) five days a week during non-monsoon period and during monsoon. Just three days a week. It will run at a speed of 130 kmph.
Free Wi-Fi facility inaugurated at 28 Railways Stations in India
Union Minister of Railways Suresh Prabhu inaugurated free Wi-Fi Internet facility at 28 Railway station in Maharashtra. Indian Railways has tied up with SYSCON/ JOISTER for providing 2 mbps peer to peer 24 hours free Wi-Fi bandwidth. The free Wi-Fi facility would help the travellers, commuters, and tourists access essential information while waiting for trains on railway stations.
Anshu Jamsenpa becomes first Indian Woman to Conquer Mt. Everest twice within 5 days
India’s Anshu Jamsenpa has become the first Indian Woman to Conquer Mount Everest twice within five days. Anshu Jamsenpa along with Nepali climber Furi sherpa scaled the peak on 21st of May. With this Jamsenpa becoming the first woman climber to make double ascent in 5days time. She is also the first Indian woman to scale Mount Everest for the fifth time.
NGT Bans Open Defecation, waste Damping on Yamuna Flood Plains
The National Green Tribunal (Green Court) has banned open defecation and waste dumping on the floodplains Yamuna river and announced an environment compensation or penalty of Rs. 5000 for those violated the rule. A bench headed by NGT Chairperson Justice Swatanter Kumar also constituted a Committee headed by Delhi Jal Board CEO to oversee the execution of work pertaining the cleaning of the river.
Pune doctors successfully perform country’s first uterus transplant
A team of Pune doctors successfully performed country’s first uterus transplant on a 21 year old Solapur woman on 18th of May. Since birth the woman has been suffering from congenital absence of uterus. It was fitted with her mother’s uterus so that She can conceive normally. Transplant performed only through open surgery and it took 9 hours. Pune’s Galaxy Core Laparoscopy Institute (GCLI), where the surgery was done have been licensed to carry out uterus transplant.
Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister launches e-Krishi Samvad
The Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister, Radha Mohan Singh has launched a portal for addressing problems in the agricultural sector. The platform is known as e-Krishi Samvad and is a portal that allows agricultural workers and other stakeholders to directly approach the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) with the problems they face. The platform is meant for farmers,students, researchers and entrepreneurs.
Rajnath Singh launches an app for Central Armed Police Forces
The Union Home Ministry launched a grievance redressal mobile app for the Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) on 11 May, 2017. The soldiers serving in the CAPF’s can download the app. If any soldier has a complaint, they can directly log it through the app and it will be taken up by the home Ministry for redressal. The CAPF includes jawans from Border Security Force (BSF), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) Indo Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB).
The SC order Sentencing Justice Karnan to Six Months Imprisonment
The Supreme Court (SC) recently sentenced a sitting judge, C.S. Karnan of the Calcutta High Court, to six months of imprisonment, holding him guilty of contempt of court. He is the first serving high court judge to be sent to prison for contempt. A seven judge constitution bench headed by Chief Justice of India J.S. Khehar directed the arrest of Karnan.
NBT to host book fairs in Panchayats
The National Book Trust (NBT) has launched Panchayat Pustak Mela its aim is to organize regular book fairs in rural areas across the country. The main objective of hosting book fairs in Panchayat level is to encourage the growth of reading habit in villages. All the books showcased at the fairs will be published by the NBT in regional languages, Hindi and English. The NBT will start to host book fair bodies in the Maoist hit areas of Chhattisgarh.
Supreme Court becomes paperless, digital court
The Supreme Court has taken its first step towards becoming a paperless, digital court. PM Narendra Modi inaugurated the digital filing system at a function in New Delhi, where the integrated case Management System will be connected with the Supreme Court. The event will also be attended by Law Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and judges of the apex court. The Supreme Court of India is the Highest Judicial Forum and final court of appeal.
Union Home Minister announced SAMADHAN to tackle of left wing Extremism
A meeting of the Chief Ministers of states affected by Left Wing Extremism or Maoists, Presided over by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh was held in New Delhi on May 8, 2017. In this meeting Mr. Rajnath Singh Announced SAMADHAN, a new strategy to wipe out left wing terror. The Other Officials attended by Union Home secretary Rajiv Mehrishi, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, the Director of Intelligence Bureau and so on.
CRPF Command Shifted from Kolkata to Chhattisgarh
Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) shifted back from Kolkata to Raipur, Chhattisgarh. The recent decision was taken due to the backdrop of 37 Jawans killed of the paramilitary force in Sukma district. CRPF is the largest central armed police force or paramilitary force in India. It functions the aegis of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
Gadkari inaugurated countries first bio refinery Plant
Nitin Gadkari, the Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways inaugurated India’s first biorefinery plant that produces ethanol from a variety of biomass in pune on 7 May 2017. Gadkari stated that such projects with help stage a great revolution in India’s agriculture sector. The project is located at Rahu, a village in Daund Taluka in Pune District of Maharashtra. The newly set up plant is capable of producing one million litres of ethanol per annum by processing a variety of agricultural residue including rice and wheat straw, cotton stalk, cane trash, corn cobs with superior product yields.
Odisha’s Sualgiri, Swalgiri Communities notified as Scheduled Castes
Odisha’s Sualgiri and Swalgi Communities have been notified as Scheduled castes following President Pranab Mukherjee’s assent to a new law. The Rajya Sabha had last month passed the bill on it after it was cleared by the Lok Sabha in March, The president gave the nod to the constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order (Amendment) Act – 2017.
Uttar Pradesh deploys Ambulances for Cows
Uttar Pradesh Deputy Chief Minister Keshav Prasad Maurya flagged off an ambulance service that would cater to cows. Under the “Gau Vansh Chikitsa Mobile Vans” service, the ambulance would rescue ill or injured cows and transport them to gaushalas or take them for treatment to the veterinary doctor. A “gau seva toll – free number” was also released so that common people can come to help of such cows.
Gadkari inaugurates The Highway Saga, SRISHTI exhibitions
Union Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has inaugurated two exhibitions namely The Highway Saga past present and Future, Safe Road and Interstate Highways Transforming India (SRISHTI) at Vigyan Bhavan in New Delhi. The Highway Saga exhibition will depict the evolution of road transport in India. The exhibitions are part of three day India Integrated Transport and Logistics Summit being organized by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways from 3rd to 5th May, 2017.
PM Modi inaugurated Patanjali Research Institute in Uttarakhand
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Patanjali Research Institute at patanjali Yogpeeth in Haridwar on 3 May, 2017. An amount of 2000 crore was spent on building the patanjali Research centre. The research centre would do a research on forest products and produce herbal products from the same. Patanjali is one of the top brands in the country and has expanded its wings in FMCG sector after health care herbal products.
Narasaraopet set a Guinness World Record in Organ Donor
A Guinness World Record for the most number of people to sign up as organ donors in a single hour was broken at a programme held to mark the 70th birthday of AP Assembly Speaker Kodela Siva Prasada Rao in Narasaraopet, on 3rd May. Dr. Rao himself led the way by signing up as the first donor. Adjudicator from the Guinness World Record Swapnil declared that a new record was created after 11, 987 people signed up as donors in just an hour after the programme began. The earlier record was held by a college in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu which registered 6,697 organ donors in the hour in 2016.
Maharashtra CM inaugurates Automatic Weather Station in Nagpur
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has inaugurated the state’s first automatic weather station at Dongargaon in Nagpur. This is one of the Unique Project in the country, which will measure wind direction, wind speed relative humidity and record amount of rainfall. This information will be shared with farmers who can then manage sowing in a much better and planned as per the weather conditions.
Ganga Swachhata Sankalp Divas celebrated on May 2, 2017
May 2, 2017 was observed as Ganga Swchhata Sankalp Divas by National Mission on Clean Ganga (NMCG) at twelve locations Kanpur, Bithoor, Allahabad, Devprayag, varanasi, Patna, Bhagalpur, Koklata, Raj Ghat, Sahibganj, Srinagar (Uttarakhand) and Vidhur Kuti (Bijnor). Ganga Vichaar Manch and local NGO’s organized the event at 30 more locations. On May 2, 2017, Ganga cleanliness resolution day was observed in 15 cities and 985 Villages situated on the banks of River Ganga.
PM Modi releases stamp on Ramanujacharya’s 1000th Birth Anniversary
Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a commemorative stamp on the 1000th Birth Anniversary of Saint Ramanuja charya on 1st May, 2007 in New Delhi. The central message of Saint Ramanujacharya’s life was inclusive society. Religion and Philosophy. Ramanujacharya saw manifestation of God in human beings and saw all devotees of God as equal. Sri Ramanuja Jayanthi is celebrated each year and Jayanthi is decided based on Tamil Solar Calendar. This year which falls on 1st May.
STATES
IIT Kharagpur develops new pollution free, Biofuel
Researchers at IIt Kharagpur have developed a new technology which will change the way biofuel is manufactured by making the process Cheaper, quicker and pollution free, Professor of Department of Agricultural and Food Engineering Dr. Rintu Banerjee said the technique will ensure relatively quicker production of biofuel and the process is completely green. A new technology known as “soil- to-soil” manufacturing technology for manufacturing cheaper, quicker and pollution free.
Goa bans thin plastic bags to tackle garbage
The Goa State government has decided to ban buying and selling of plastic bags below 50 microns. The ban will come to effects from July 2017. Goa Chief Minister Manohar Parrikar implemented the law with the fine of Rs. 500 and then the fine will be subsequently raised to Rs. 5,000. Goa has already banned plastic bags below 40 microns. This thin plastic has a tendency to cause flooding by Choking drains, and can easily travel by wind and water in floodplains.
Dailong Village in Manipur declared Biodiversity Heritage Site
The Manipur government has declared Dailong Village of Tamenglong district as a Biodiversity Heritage Site of the State. Dailong Village, covering an area of 11.35 sq km, has been declared as Biodiversity Heritage Site under Section 37 (1) of Biological Diversity Act, 2002. The declaration was made after the recommendation of Manipur Biodiversity Board, the state government has stated in the notification.
Haryana announces pension scheme for Journalists
On 27 May, 2017, Haryana Chief Minister Manoharlal Khattar announced following incentives following incentives for journalists at the “Swarna Jayanti Journalists Meet in Panchkula Rs. 10,000 monthly pension scheme, for those who are above 60 years and have completed 20 years in the profession. A life insurance covers of Rs.10 lakh and a cashless media claim policy of Rupees 5,00,000. Media persons, who have completed five years in the profession, who be given recognition by the state government.
J&K agriculture minister launches e-plant clinics
The Jammu and Kashmir agriculture minister launched an e-plant clinic service for farmers with the aim to double farmer’s income by 2022. The Department of Agriculture in collaboration with centre for Agriculture and Biosciences International (CABI) has set up 15 plant clinics in Samba, Kathua and Jammu. Under the “Plantwise” programme of CABI, 22 officials have been trained as plant doctors to diagnose various plant diseases in the Jammu region.
UP CM launches JE Vaccination drive in 38 districts
Uttarpradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on 25 May, 2017 launched a massive immunisation drive in 38 districts of the state to eradicate Japanese Encephalitis (JE) This anti-encephalitis drive was launched from Kushinagar district. The government has also involved all the voluntary and social organisations in these JE Prone districts. CM Yogi also launched a toll free number to get or provide any information about encephalitis. The num is 18001805544.
PM Modi inaugurates series of projects in Gujarat
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 22 May 2017 inaugurated and laid the foundation stone for various projects of the Kandler post in Kutch District in Gujarat. Kandla Port is India’s No.1 Major Port since last 10 years. The projects include construction of Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Convention Center. Railway Bridge at sal junction, Mechanised fertiliser handling facility and purchase of two mobile harbour crane. He said that good ports are essential for the progress of india and Kandla has emerged as one of the finest ports in Asia.
Turlapati Kutumba Rao As Ambassador to Swachh Andhra Mission
Veteran Journalist and Columnist Turlapati Kutumba Rao appointed as Ambassador to Swachh Andhra Mission. The Andhra Pradesh’s Swachh Andhra Pradesh Corporation M.D. Murali Reddy appointed him to the honorary post. He was the former secretary to T.Prakasham Pantulu. He was also a former Chairman of the Andhra Pradesh Grandhalaya Parishad. He was served to develop telugu language and to develop grandhalayam in Andhra Pradesh.
“Good Morning” Squads to Tackle Open Defecation in Maharashtra
The Maharashtra Government has decided to form ‘good morning’ squads to monitor and prevent open defecation in villages and districts across the state. These squads will comprise representatives of local bodies, self help groups, NGO’s, students and social workers working in the area of sanitation and cleanliness. A government resolution issued and stated that these squads have been asked to keep an eye on the areas this practice is prevalent and to ensure that local have access to toilets there.
“No Helmet No Petrol” drive begins in Lucknow
‘Lucknow Police on 22 May, 2017 began a new drive in Uttar Pradesh Capital where in Petrol will not be provided to refill the tanks of two wheelers, it the riders are found not wearing a helmet. Reportedly, the government has asked all petrol pumps to report Vehicle numbers to transport authorities whenever they found a two-wheeler without a helmet. Banners and posters will be put up at every petrol pump to create awareness among the people about the importance of wearing helmets.
Hyderabad’s Turbo Megha Airways first private airline to get UDAN licence
Hyderabad based Turbo Megha Airways has become the first Private airline to get a licence to fly under UDAN, the government scheme for subsidized regional flights. It flies as TruJet, it will launch Hyderabad cuddapah, Hyderabad Nanded and Nanded Mumbai routes. TruJet is one of the five operators who have been awarded a total of 128 routes Under the UDAN scheme. The airline will use the three ATR-72 aircraft.
Andhra Pradesh to ink MoU with Singapore Government
In a move that can speed up the construction of its new capital, Amaravathi, the Andhra Pradesh Government will enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with Singapore recently. The MoU will enhance Cooperation between the Singapore government and Andhra pradesh in the development of Amaravathi Masterplan. A joint implementation working committee comprising senior officials from both the governments will report to the JSTC.
Kerala tops, Bihar last in Public Affair Index
Kerala has secured first rank and Bihar has ranked and Bihar has ranked last on this year’s Public Affairs Index (PAI), compiled on basis of a survey by Bengaluru based think tank Public Affairs Centre (PAC). The survey was based on 10 themes, 26 focus subjects and 82 indicators. It was released by former Chief Justice of India MN Venkatachaliah, Former Karnataka Lokayukta N. Santosh Hegde, Director of Public Affairs Centre (PAC) G. Guru Charan and former Chief Secretary of Rajasthan C.K. Mathew were also present at the event.
UP CM to declare no school bag day on Saturdays in Govt schools
The UP Government is planning to declare no school bag day on Saturdays in all the state run schools. The proposal for the same was submitted at a meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Dinesh Sharma on 12 May 2017 in Lucknow. The move aims to encourage more involvement of Children in creative activities on those no school bad day. It will also help establish a good rapport between students and teachers and help in their personality development.
Kochi Metro Rail offer job to members from transgender community
Kochi Metro decided to employ 23 members of the transgender community. This is the first time a government owned company has formally appointed members of transgender community. These 23 transgender workers will be a part of 530 kudumbasree workers to be employed at 11 stations in the Kochi Metro Station.
Odisha to introduce boat ambulances in four districts
Odisha will introduce boat ambulance service in four districts, where people face difficulties in getting health care service. The districts of Koraput, Malkangiri, Kendrapara and Kalahandi people face problems in availing 108 ambulance service due to intervening large water bodies in the form of rivers and dams. The Govt will also shortly add 92 Basic Life Support (BLS) ambulances to its fleet of 420 ambulances that are now in operation in different parts of the state.
Govt to set up 100 training institutes to skill drivers
The Union Ministry of road transport and Highway and the Union Skill Development Ministry have signed a memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to set up 100 driver training institutes. The MoU was signed in New Delhi of May 5, 2017 in the presence of Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari and Union Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Rajiv Pratap Rudy. Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship will provide stipend up to Rs. 15000 per trainee to compensate the wage loss during the training period.
Jharkhand as second state to announce Jan – Dec FY
Jharkhand will become the second state in the country to announces its financial year from January to december. The new fiscal year for Jharkhand would commence from January 1, 2018 and end on December 31, 2018. Madhya Pradesh was first state to adopt the new financial year. Jharkhand Chief Minister “Raghubar Das in a meeting has directed the officials to spend the money of the current financial year’s budget by end of December.
Police Public Schools will be set up in Haryana
The Haryana Government will set up Police Public Schools in all subdivisions to provide best education facilities to the children of Police personnel in the state by the end of April 2018. 1560 houses for Police personnel are being built by the Haryana Police Housing Corporation in the first Phase. Construction of 1500 more houses will be under taken in the second Phase. The Police Housing Corporation has already constructed 10 such police Schools in the state.
Telangana at 4th, Apat 12th Place in UDAY Scheme
UDAY is basically a scheme of financial turnaround of state owned distribution companies. This objective is mainly to be achieved via phased takeover of the debts of the discoms by state governments. In this Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana Scheme Gujarat occupied 1st place. Telangana State in the fourth position and Andhra Pradesh in the 12th Position, in the recent updated list.
India’s first “Village of Books” inaugurated in Maharashtra
India’s first “Village of Books” was inaugurated and opened for public reading at Maharashtra’s Bhilar Village on 4th May, 2017. A total of 25 premises, including residences, hostels, temples and schools will have about fifteen thousand books belonging to different genres, Wall of each of these of these 25 premises measuring a total of 11,000 square feet have been adorned with different painting signifying the theme of books available here.
Labourers in Haryana to get breakfast for Rs.5, full meal for Rs.10
Construction labourers in Haryana can now look forward to getting food at heavily subsidised rates of Rs.5 for breakfast and Rs.10 for full meal. While they would be provided cheap yet wholesome food right at their workplace, mobile vans would be deployed to make food available to the poor at the labour chowks. The Govt aimed at providing food at affordable Prices to construction workers and the poor people.
AIIB Grants $ 160 MN for AP Power Project
China sponsored Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) on 5th May, 2017 approved $ 160 MN loan for a Power Project in Andhra Pradesh. It is the first credit from this bank for an Indian Project. The Project is co-financed by the World Bank. The 24 X 7 Power of All project is part of Government of India’s Power of All Programme that was launched in 2014. AP is one of the first states selected for roll out of the programme.
Banganapalle Mangoes receives Geographical Indication Tag
The succulent Banganapalle Mango has received a Geograpghical Indication (GI) tag, making Andhra Pradesh the proprietor of the variety known for its sweetness. The registrar of Geographical Indications Registry, Chennai, O.P. Gupta has accorded the registration following an Application from the Horticulture commissioner, Andhra Pradesh. The Andhra Pradesh Government is the registered proprietor of the GI tag for mangoes, often hailed as the king of Fruits.
Swachh Survekshan 2017 : Indore is No-1 Cleanest City
Indore in Madhya Pradesh has been ranked as the No.1 cleanest City in the country, while Gonda in UttarPradesh has been ranked as the dirtiest, as per the “Swachh Survekhan – 2017” The results of the survey were announced on 4 May 2017 by Urban Development Minister M.Venkaiah Naidu. Bhopal has bagged the 2nd position in the ranking of 434 cities. Visakhapatnam was placed 3rd among the top ten cities, the fourth slot has been claimed by Gujarat’s Surat. Mysore which would be first in the Previous lists of clean cities, has slipped to the fifth place.
Vijayawada Airport becomes International Airport
The Union Cabinet has granted International Airport status for the Vijayawada Airport. The approval was given as per provisions of Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014. The airport is currently undergoing infrastructural upgradations and improvement in facilities for international operations. The upgradation works are being carried out by the Airports Authority of India.
Madhya Pradesh first to switch to Jan-Dec fiscal year
Madhya Pradesh became the first state in India to switch to the January – December financial year from existing April – March cycle. It will break a 150 – year old tradition of adopting the financial year from April to March. This practise of April _March financial year was adopted by the British Government in 1867. Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan decided to shift the financial year January- December.
Nandini Siddha Reddy as Chairman for Telangana Sahitya Academy
The Telangana State Government has appointed the Telangana famous poet, author Nandini Siddha Reddy As a Chairperson for Telangana Sahitya Academy. He was completed his M.A. from Osmania University Hyderabad. He did his M.Phil and Ph.D on modern Poetry. He got the Nandi Award for his song “Nageti Salla lona Telangana” in the picture Veera Telangana.
AP CM Chandrababu Naidu selected for USIBC Award
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister (CM) Nara Chandrababu Naidu on 2nd May 2017, selected for the “Transformative Chief Minister Award” of the US – India Business Council (USIBC) He was selected for his role in advancing the US-India partnership at the state level. The Award will be presented to him on 8 May, 2017 at the USIBC coast summit in the Silicon Valley.
Real Estate Act will come into force on 1st May
The Real Estate Regulatory Act, which promises to protect the rights of home buyers and bring in transparency to the sector, comes into force 1st May. Though only 13 states and Union Territories have notified the rules so far, the centre believer that within next two months, others too will follow suit. Real estate developers shall get on going projects that have not received with regulation authorities by July end. This enables the buyers to enforce their rights and seek redress.
CONFERENCES
World Health Assembly (WHA 70) held in Geneva
70th World Health Assembly (WHA 70) was held from 22nd to 31st May, 2017 in Geneva, Switzerland. Dr. Margaret chan gave her last address as Director. General of the WHO, with her tenure coming to an end. Member State of WHO, elected Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus as the new Director General of WHO. The World Health Assembly is the supreme decision making body for Who. It generally meets in Geneva in May each year, and is attended by delegations from all 194 Member States.
The two-day G-7 Summit begins in Italy
The two-day G-7 Summit, that will focus on issues surrounding security and growth began on 26 May in Italy. Those participating in the Summit include German Chancellor Angela Merkel, Canadian prime Minister Justin Trudeau, US President Donald Trump and French President Emmanuel Macron, along with the Prime Ministers of Italy, Japan and UI, Paolo Gentiloni, Shinzo Abe and Theresa May respectively.
2017 NATO Summit held in Belgium
The 28th Edition of North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit has started in Brussels, Belgium on May 24 and 25, 2017. The top agenda of the meeting was terrorism. It also expected that NATO is to join the US led anti Islamic State Coalition (IS). The main aim is to fight against Islamist terrorism. The 2018 NATO Summit will be held in IStanbul. Turkey, Chairman of the NATO Military Committee was petr Pavel. It was formed on 4th April 1949.
G – 20 Labour and Employment Ministers Meet held in Germany
G – 20 Labour and Employment Ministers Meet was held Bad Neuenahr, Germany from 18 to 19 May 2017. Germany chaired the G-20 Labour and Employment Ministers Meet, as it currently hold the G-20 Presidency. The Meeting focused on the theme “Towards an Inclusive Future Shaping the world of work” This meet had been discussing topics like Boosting Youth Employment, Shape the Future of Work, Decent Work in Global Supply Chains and so on.
ICT4D Conference held in Hyderabad
The ninth annual ICT4D Conference was held in Hyderabad. It was held May 15 to 18, 2017. Around 800 delegates from 74 countries were participated in the conference. They were discussed about Agriculture, Education, Health, Environment, Disaster Management Big Data, Partnerships and Digital Financial Inclusion. The strategic use of technology innovations in relief and development programmes that enhance program quality, improve decision making and increase impact.
India and Palestine Inks 5 Agreements
India and Palestine exchanged five agreements for cooperation in different sectors including agriculture, information technology and health. The agreements were exchanged after a high level delegation talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Palestine President Mahmoud Abbas in New Delhi. The MoUs were also inked Visa exemption on diplomatic and official passports and cooperation in youth affairs and sport.
AWARDS & HONOURS
President of India Presents Hindi Sevi Samman Awards
The President of India, Pranab Mukherjee Presented the Hindi Sevi Samman Awards to 26 eminent Hindi Scholars for the year 2015 on 30 May, 2017 at a function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan New Delhi. The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries including the Union Minister of Human Resource Development, Prakash Javadekar, The awards were conferred to the scholars under 12 different categories for their contribution in the field of Hindi language and literature. Every year this award was given to Hindi scholars in the field.
Priyanka Chopra bags Dadasaheb Phalke Award
Actress Priyanka Chopra will be honoured with the Dadasaheb Phalke Academy Award for being an international icon. The Bollywood star will be given the award under the newly introduced . “Internationally Acclaimed Actress” category at a ceremony. The board of trustees for Dadasaheb Phalke Academy Awards include Johny Lever, Pahlaj Nihalani, Mithun Chakraborty and TP Agrawal. The award ceremony will be held on June 1, 2017 in Mumbai.
Dr. Sunil Kothari to be awarded the Akademi Ratna
Dr. Sunil Kothari who was the first one to complete Ph D from Vadodara M S University’s Department of Dance, has been selected for the coveted Akademi Ratna award by the Sangeet natak Akademi. The 83 year old Kothari, who is a native of Matar town of Kheda district will receive the highest Indian recognition given to an artist in October by the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan. He was starting the school of Arts and Aesthetics at Jawaharlal Nehru University.
Pune city Police receive FICCI smart Policing award
The Pune City Police have received the Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industries (FICCI) Smart Police Award for the year 2017. Pune Police Commissioner Rashmi Shukla received the award from BJP MP Meenakshi Lekhi during a Programme Organised by FICCI and Vivekananda International Foundation on Homeland security in Delhi. The program focussed on the use of modern technology for countering internal security issues.
Three Odias get Sangeet Natak Akademi -2016 Awards
Three eminent personalities from Odisha odissi guru Ratikant Mohapatra, theatre director Satyabrata Raut and Pala singer Laxmidhar Raut have been selected for the prestigious Kendra Sangeet Natak Akademi – 2016 Awards. The legendary artists have been picked by the Kendra Sangeet Natak Akademi from among representatives from 30 states for the immense contribution to dance, music, theatre and other performing arts in the state.
Pranab Mukherjee Presented the Dr. Ambedkar National Awards
The President of India Shri Pranab Mukherjee has Presented the Dr. Ambedkar National Awards for the years 2011, 2012, 2013 and 2014 on May 26, 2017 in New Delhi. The winners of Dr. Ambedkar National Awards were SK. Thorat, Samta Sainik Dal, Amar Seva Sangam, Shri Babulal Nirmal respectively. These awards has been given for outstanding contribution to the promotion of social understanding and for the upliftment of weaker sections of the society.
Jacqueline Fernandez win International Humanitarian Award
Bollywood actor Jacqueline Fernandez was awarded with the International Humanitarian Award in Editor’s Choice Category of Asian Voice Charity Awards. The award recognises the work of Charity organisations in the United Kingdom (UK) and abroad. Fernandez was awarded for her Philanthropic Work in India. She has been working with the Charity “Habitat for Humanity” for last five years. This Organisation Works to help people to live with dignity by giving them homes to live in.
Drake bagged 13 Awards at 2017 Billboard Music Awards
Rapper Drake grabbed a record 13 wins at the 2017 Billboard Music Awards. He was eclipsing Adele’s previous record of 12 awards in 2012. Drake, who also won top artist, top male artist, and top rap album for “views”, artist of the year. Adele and Justin Bieber picked up five nominations each, with Beyonce on four alongside the chainsmokers. The nominations were announced on U.S. TV Show Good Morning America by singers Joe Jonas and Rachel Platten.
Rohan Chakravarty wins WWF International President’s Award
Rohan Chakravarty an Indian Wildlife and environment cartoonist won World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) International President’s Award. The award ceremony was held recently in Manado, Indonesia. Chakravarthi cartoons under the banner of Green Humour mainly emphasis on environmental issues honoured with the award. The award is top award given by WWF to recognize leadership in young conservationists who are under the age of 30 from around the world.
Indian boy wins top Intel Science Award in US
An Indian boy has won the World’s largest pre-college science competition in the US in the environmental engineering category. His project was on biodegradation of pesticides. Prshant Ranganathan, a 12th grader from Jamshedpur, along with 20 high school students from various parts of India. Participated in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair. In all, more than 1700 students from across the world participated in the week-long event.
Pranay Varada wins National Geographic Bee Contest
A 14-year old Indian – American Student, Pranay Varada has won the Prestigious National Geographic Bee competition. He gets $ 50,000 in scholarship and other prizes. Thomas Wright was declared the runner up. Wright has received $ 25,000 in scholarship. Indian Americans have won the National Geographic Bee Competition for the last ten consecutive years. This year six of ten finalists were Indian-Americans.
Indian Scientist Shrinivas Kulkarni wins Dan David Prize 2017
Indian Scientist Shrinivas Kulkarni on 18 May 2017 won the Israel’s prestigious Dan David Prize 2017 for his contribution in the field of astronomy. He was awarded in the “Future’ Category which is dedicated to astronomy this year. He will share the award with Andrzej Udalski of the University of Warsaw and Neil Gehrels of NASA for their discoveries on time-domain astrophysics. Kulkarni is a professor of astrophysics and planetary science at california Institute of Technology in Pasadena.
Sanjay Gubbi and Purnima Barman win Whitley Awards 2017
Two Indian Nature Activists Sanjay Gubbi and Purnima Barman on 18 May 2017 won the annual Whitley Awards, popularly known as “Green Oscars”, for their Works in the field of animal and bird conservation in India. These two Indians are among six global winners of the award shortlisted from 166 entries. Each winner will receive 35000 pounds prize money in project funding over the year.
David Letterman wins Mark Twain Prize – 2017 for American humour
David Letterman, who was the longest running host of late night TV shows in the United States, was on 17 May 2017 awarded with the Mark Twain Prize 2017 for American humour. With this, Letterman became the 20th humorist to receive the Prize. Letterman hosted over 6000 late night shows in 33 years on the air. He won 10 Emmy awards. His final show in May 2015 drew an audience of 13.8 million people.
Aravind Kumar Rengan bags INSA Young Scientist Award
Aravind Kumar Rengan, Assistant Professor in Department of Biomedical Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT – H) Hyderabad has been awarded the prestigious Indian National Science Academy (INSA) medal in the Young Scientist Category for 2017. Prof Aravind has been awarded the medal for devising. A novel way of nano delivery using liposomes and gold nanoparticles which is useful for both imaging and therapeutics.
ISKCON’s Govardhan Eco Village wins Smart Village Award
Maharashtra’s Govardhan Eco Village has won the “Smart Village” Award for being a sustainable project in rural Maharashtra. The “India Trade Promotion Organisation” (ITPO)’s award was received by Nimai Lila Das to Chief Sustainability Officer of Govardhan Eco Village, in New Delhi on May 13, 2017. Eco Village was set up by the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) in adjoining Thane district.
Konkona bags Best Director and Best Actress Awards at NYIFF
Konkona Sensharma has bagged the best director for her debut film “A Death in the Gunj”. Konkona had also bagged the best actress for “Lipstick Under My Burka” at 2017’s New York Indian Film Festival (NYIFF). The film festival took place from April 30 to May 7. She received the top honour for the performance in Alankrita Shrivastava Lipstick Under My Burka. She won the award for directing the drama thriller.
Presidential awards for classical Tamil Presented
On May 9, 2017 the President of India. Mr Pranab Mukherjee Presented the “Presidential Awards for classical Tamil” for the year 2013-14, 2014-15, 2015-16 at Rashtrapati Bhavan New Delhi. The Presidential Awards for Classical Tamil were instituted by central Institute of classical Tamil functioning under the aegis of Ministry of Human Resource Development. These awards are presented to distinguished scholars who have made outstanding contribution to classical Tamil language and literature.
Emma Watson bags first ever ‘genderless’ award
Hollywood Star Emma Watson picked up the first ever genderless Acting Award for the Best Actor category at the MTV Movie and TV Awards. The 27 years old actress made history at the annual event held at the Shrine Auditorium in Madrid, Spain on 7 may, 2017. The star, who first became known for her role as Hermione in the Harry Potter films, is a feminist campaigner and UN Women Global Goodwill Ambassador. Her ‘Beauty and the Beast’ also won movie of the year.
Sachin Tendulkar Conferred with Fellowship Award in UK
Indian Former Cricket Player Sachin Tendulkar received the Fellowship Award at the 7th annual Asian Awards in the United Kingdom. India’s playback singer Adnan Sami won the award for outstanding achievement in Music. The award for outstanding achievement in cinema conferred on Om Puri who died earlier this year at age of 66. He was receiving the Award at the 7th annual Asian Awards Held in London.
Saqib Majeed wins 2016 Wisden – MCC Cricket “Photograph of the year” award
A Srinagar based freelance photographer has done Kashmir Proud, Pocketing the prestigious 2016 Wisden – MCC (Melbourne Cricket Council) Cricket photograph of the year for a stunning image, which captured boys playing cricket in the outskirts of the city. Saqib Majeed, an engineer by profession clicked the award winning picture at eh Nishat Garden in Srinagar. Majeed is the first Kashmiri and second Asian after Atul Kamble to receive the award.
Sunny Pawar chosen for Rising Star Award in the UK
Child actor Sunny Pawar, best known for his Performance in the Oscar nominated film Lion, has been chosen for the Rising Star Award in UK. The award will be presented to Sunny at the 7th Annual Asian Awards. Sunny, grew up in the Mumbai Slums, shot to global fame with his role in Australian drama where he worked alongside award winning actors Dev Patel and Nicole Kidman.
Movie The Black Prince Awarded at International film fest in Houston
The Hollywood film The Black Prince starring Indian Actress Shabana Azmi and singer poet Satinder Sartaaj awarded special Jury Remi Award at 50th Annual Worldfest Houston International Film Festival. The Black Prince is a historic film of the last king of Punjab. Maharajah Duleep Singh and his relationship with Queen Victoria. The Worldfest Houston International Film Festival is the World’s largest independent film festival.
Padma Venkataraman bestowed with Avvaiyar Award
The Tamil Nadu Government on 2 May 2017 conferred the 2017 Avvaiyar Award to Padma Venkataraman, a social worker and daughter of former Indian President, the late R.Venkataraman. Padma was honoured with the award for her efforts in the field of women’s welfare and rehabilitation of leprosy – affected people since the past 30 years by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K. Palaniswami.
SPORTS & GAMES
Kohli only Indian in top 10 of ICC ODI rankings
India captain Virat Kohli is the lone cricketer from the country to feature in the top 10 of the ICC players Rankings for ODIs as he managed to hold on to his third sport in the batsman’s chart. The top three batsmen South Africa’s AB de villiers (874 points), Australian David Warner (871 points) and Kohli (852) Points are separated by just 22 points. Among other Indians to feature in the top of 20 of the ICC players Rankings for ODI batsman Rohit Sharma (12th) M.S. Dhoni (13th) and Shikhar Dhawan, who draped a place to (15th)
Lionel Messi wins Fourth Golden Shoe
Professional football player Lionel Messi has won the European Golden Shoe for a fourth time. Playing for Football Club Barcelona, Lionel Messi scored 37 goals in this season. With the fourth golden shoe to his name, Messi has equalled Real Madrid’s Cristiano Ronaldo’s Record,Lionel Messi topped the Golden Shoe table by scoring 37 goals and securing 74 points, and was ahead of Bas Dost of Sporting Lisbon by Six Points.
Sebastian Vettel wins Monaco Grand Prix
Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel has won Monaco Grand Prix, was held on 28 May, 2017. The race was held at Circuit de Monaco, La Condamine and Monte Carlo, Monaco. The second place in the race was secured by Ferrari’s Kimi Raikkonen. The third place was secured by Red Bull’s Daniel Ricciardo. The gap in the drivers Championship between Vettel and Lewis Hamilton has been extended by 25 points as Hamilton settled for a seventh place. Vettel Completed this race in 1 hour 44 minutes and 44.340 seconds only.
South Korea defeat China to win 2017 Sudirman Cup
South Korea defeated China won badminton Sudirman Cup for the first time in 28 years on 29 May, 2017. South Korea has won by 3-2 points over 10-time Champions China. It was held in Gold Coast Australia. South Korea also claimed their fourth cup in the World mixed teams competition with a Charged 21-17, 21-13 win by Choi Sol gyu and Chae Yoo-Jung in the mixed doubles match. South Korea won in mixed doubles in 1991, 1993 and 2003 respective years.
Ananya Kamboj selects for the FIFA Programme in Russia
Ananya Kamboj, 8th Standard student from Chandigarh has been selected as young journalist at the global Football for Friendship (F4F) Social programme in Russia. India joins the programme for the first time and 60 other countries will participate. Mission XI Million is a programme of the FIFA U – 17 World Cup India 2017. It will focus on the development of children’s football, fostering tolerance and respect for different cultures and nationalities among Children from different countries.
Bhavani Devi win Gold in International Fencing Tournament
India’s Fencing Player Chadalavada Bhavani Devi has become first Indian to win a Gold Medal in an International fencing tournament. She has won the gold medal sabre event of the Tournoi Satellite Fencing Championship held at Reykjavik in Iceland. In the final, she beat Sarah Jane Hampson of Great Britain with 15-13 points. Chadalavada Bhavani Devi is a sabre fencer from Chennai. She had Previously won silver medal in another event.
Manchester United won 2016-17 UEFA Europe League Title
Manchester United won the 2016-17 The Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) Europa League Title. They defeated Amsterdamsche Football Club Ajax (AFC) team. Manchester United Football Club is a Professional Football Club based on Old Trafford, Greater Manchester, England. Jose Mourinho, that serial trophy hunter, won his 12th final out of 14 finalist games.
HCL to host Asian Junior Tennis Championship 2017
Hindustan Computers Limited (HCL) to host the Asian Junior Tennis Championship 2017, the most reputed tennis championship in the Asia. The Championship is being held in association with the Maharashtra State Lawn Tennis Association and under the support of International Tennis Federation (ITF), Asian Tennis Federation (ATF) and All India Tennis Association (AITA). Different players from 11 countries Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Japan, Philippines, Hong-Kong, Malaysia, China, Sri Lanka, Iran and India are participating in the Championshi.
PV Sindhu elected to BWF Athletes Commission
Olympics silver medalist PV Sindhu on 24 May, 2017 elected as members to Badminton World Federation (BWF) Athletes’ Commission. Sindhu emerged the highest voted (129) Player in the BWF Athletes Commission election that took place on the sidelines of the Sudirman cup in Gold Coast, Australia. Along with Sindhu, Marc Zwiebler of Germany voted (108) and Kristry Gilmour of Scotland voted (103) were also elected as members to BWF Athletes Commission. The three were served a four year term.
R. Aswin wins International Cricketer of the year Award
India off Spinner Ravichandran Aswin, on Wednesday (24 May, 2017) received the Prestigious International Cricketer of the year Award at the CEAT Cricket Rating (CCR) International awards 2017. Former India skipper Sunil Gavaskar and Harsh Goenka, Chairman of RPG Enterprises Presented the award to the spin searched at a function held at the Cricket Club of India. Aswin was the wrecker in chief during the home season, where India won 10 of their 13 matches.
Sweden beat Canada to win ICE Hockey World Title
Sweden won Ice Hockey World Championship Title for the 10th time. Sweden won the Championship with a 2-1 goal. This win is Sweden’s first in four tries against Canada. The teams were tied at 1-1 after three periods in Cologne, Germany, with Victor Hedman scoring for the Swedes and Canada’s Ryan O'Reilly equalising. Finally Sweden have won the ICE Hockey World Championship, beating favourites Canada in a dramatic penalty shootout.
Bengaluru FC wins 38th Federation Cup Football Tournament
Bengaluru Football Club has won the 28th Federation cup Football tournament. In the final match they defeated depending Champions and 14 time winners Mohun Bagan with 2-0. The match went into extra time after neither of the teams could break the deadlock in 90 minutes. India international CK Vineeth, then, scored twice for Bengaluru in extra time helping them to win the tournament for just second time.
Mumbai Indians beat Rising Pune Supergiants to win 2017 IPL
Mumbai Indians on 21 May 2017 defeated Rising Pune Supergiant by 1 run to clinch the tenth edition of the Indian Premier League. It is the third time that the Mumbai Indians clinched the IPL winner title. With the win, Mumbai Indians became the first team to win three IPL titles. Krunal Pandya of Mumbai Indians was declared the Man of the Match. Mumbai Indians won the first title in 2013 and second title in 2015 by defeating Chennai Super Kings.
Alexander Zverev clinches Italian Open Single Title
Alexander Zverev on 21 May 2017 defeated World No.2 Novak Djokovic 6-4,6- 3 to win the Italian Open. The Final was held in Rome, Italy. With the win, Zverev became the youngest Master 1000 titlist. Now, he entered the ATP top 10 for the first time after defeating Novak Djokovic in the final of the Italian Open. Between October 2013 and June 2014, he was the No.1 Ranked boys junior player.
India win all 10 gold medals in South Asian
In the South Asian Junior Table Tennis Championship India has won 10 gold medals. It was a proud moment for India. The tournament was held in Mount lavinia, near Colombia in Sri Lanka. Apart from 10 gold medals, the Indian participants have also won 14 medals that total makes to 24. In this Championship Manav Thakkar won Junior boys final Archana Girish Kamath won Junior Girls final.
Vaishnavi Shone won 2 gold medals in the first Asia level Yoga Competition
Vaishnavi Shone a Coimbatore girl won 2 gold medals in the first Asia level Yoga Competition in Thailand. She was won the Junior Category (13 to 15 years). Overall 150 participants from singapore and Thailand took part in the meet which was held in Bangkok. Vaishnavi has achieved Various awards and titles including”Yoga Rami” and “Yoga Natchathra” from India Yoga Association and Government of Tamilnadu.
Indian Men’s Team wins Compound Gold in World Cup Archery
The Indian Men’s Compound archery team Abhishek Verma, Chinna Raju Sridhar and Amanjeet Singh won compound gold at World Cup Stage -1 championships held in Shanghai, China. They defeated Colombian team comprised Camilo Andres Cardona, Jose Carlos ospina and Daniel Munoz to achieve gold. India defeat USA in the semifinal and Iran in the quarterfinal.
Mohammad Anas breaks 400m National Record
Mohammad Anas from Kerala has breaked the national record in men’s 400 m race and won a gold medal at the third leg of the Indian Grand Prix Athletics Meet in New Delhi. He finished the race in 45.32 seconds at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium. He also qualified for the World Championships to be held in London in August. Rajiv Arokia and Sachin Baby were second and third in 46.32 seconds and 47.18 seconds respectively.
ICC hikes Prize Money for Champions Trophy
The International Cricket Council (ICC) in the second week of May 2017 announced that the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy Carries a total prize money of USD 4.5 million. The winner of the eight team tournament will take home a Cheque of $ 2.2 million. The runner up of the tournament will get a Cheque of $ 1.1 million, while the other two semifinalists will get $ 450000 each. Teams finishing third in each group will take home $ 90,000 each.
Indian Women Cricketers sets New World Record in One-Day Internationals
The partnership of Deepti Sharma and Poonam Raut scored 320 in 45.3 overs to become the World’s first ever first Wicket Partnership , to achieve a 300 – run opening wicket Partnership in One-Day Internationals (ODI’s). The earlier best Partnership for the first wicket in Men’s Cricket was 286 scored by Sri Lanka’s Upul Tharanga and Sanath jayasuriya against England in 2006. Deepti Sharma did 188 runs and Poonam Raut did 109
runs in the Match against Ireland Women’s Team.
Arjun Maini becomes the first Indian to win GP3 Race
Arjun Maini became the first Indian driver to win a GP3 Race when he won the sprint race at the circuit de catalunya, Barcelona. The 19 years old scored his first win in two years while finishing six seconds ahead of Frenchman Dorian Boccolacci and teammate Alessio Lorandi of Italy. Arjun Maini, driving for Jenzer Motorsport’s and creating history.
Lewis Hamilton Wins Spanish Grand prix
Lewis Hamilton cut Sebastian Vettel’s lead at the top of the Formula one drivers standings to six points as he won the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona. Mercedes star Lewis Hamilton will start at pole position after edging out Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel by just. 0.051 seconds Spanish Grand Prix is a Formula one motor race which is one of the oldest of its kind in the world. He is a three time Formula one World Champion.
India Claim 2 Medals At World Para Athletics Grand Prix
India Claimed a gold medal and a bronze medal and a bronze medal at the World Para Athletics Grand Prix held in Beijing, China, Ramudu Someshwara Rao, who became the fastest Indian blade runner in the recently conducted 17th National Para Athletics Championships at Jaipur, won a gold medal in the 200 m race at World Para Athletics Grand Prix, Beijing. Shot Putter Hokato Sema who also won gold at 17th National Para Athletics Championships at Jaipur, won bronze at World Para Athletics Grand Prix Beijing.
VVS Laxman awarded honorary life membership of Marylebone Cricket Club
Former Indian cricket player VVS Laxman on 11 May, 2017 was awarded an honorary life membership to the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC). Laxman is the fifth Indian to receive the honour, after Sachin Tendulkar, Rahul Dravid, Sourav Ganguly and Zaheer Khan. He was a right handed aggressive bats man, who played mostly in the middle order. In 2011 he was awarded the padma shri Award.
Harpreet Singh wins bronze in Asian Wrestling Championship
Harpreet Singh won a bronze medal Greco-Roman Weight divisions in the Asian Wrestling Championship held at the K.D. Jadhav arena in the Indira Gandhi Stadium Complex in New Delhi. Harpreet won the bronze medal after beating his rival Jun JiNa of China in 80 kg category. Asian Wrestling Championships are Organized every year by the Asian Associated Wrestling Committee (AAWC)
Vikram Malhotra Wins 5th PSA Title
India’s Vikram Malhotra won his fifth PSA title after beating Egypt’s Youssef Ibrahim in the final of the Abu Dhabi Open. The US based Indian won 6-11, 11-4, 11-3, 9-11, 13-11 against his opponent. The top seeded Indian, fresh frona Asian Championship held in Chennai, beat Hesham Mohamed Aly of Egypt in the first round thereafter seventh seed Ahmad Ali Siraj of Jordan in the quarters, both in fluent style. In the semi final he took out Pakistan’s Khawaja Adil Maqbool who retired in the third game after trailing by two games.
Odisha CM Unveils Logo and Mascot of Asian Athletics Championships
Naveen Patnaik Unveils Logo and mascot of Asian Athletics Championships. The 22nd Asian Athletics Championship is scheduled to be held at kalinga stadium from July 6 to 9. While the logo depicts an athlete crossing the finishing line with historical tourist attractions of Odisha in the back drop, the mascot is named OLLY that represents the famous Olive Ridley Sea turtle. The State Governments would spend Rs. 43 crore for preparation of the grand event.
Jhulan Goswami as highest wicket taker in Women’s ODIS
Fast bowler Jhulan Goswami is now the highest wicket taker in one day internationals in the women’s game. Goswami, who now has 181 wickets in 153 matches, Surpassed the world record held by Australia bowled Cathryn Fitzpatrick (180). She achieved this feat with the wicket of No.11 batsman Raisibe Ntozakhe of South Africa. She broke the record in the ongoing match against hosts South Africa in the women’s Quadrangular series in potchefstroom.
Devender Singh, javelin thrower to qualify for London Words
Indian Javelin Thrower Devender Singh qualified for the World Championships in London. Devender Singh with a stunning throw of 84.57 mt won the gold medal at the Indian Grand Prix Athletics meet in Patiala. He is the second Javelin thrower from the country Qualify of the London Championships. Neeraj Chopra, the World Junior Champion and record holder. He was the first Indian Javelin thrower to qualify for the London Worlds when he threw 83.32 mt at the Asian Grand Prix in Jiaxing.
Asian Boxing Shiva, sumit settle for Silver
Shiva Thapa (60kg) settled for a silver medal at the Asian Boxing Championships after an injury forced loss in the final in Tashkent. He was becoming first Indian to claim three back to back medals at the tournament. Sumit Sangwan also won silver after losing to Kazakhstan’s top seeded Vassiliy Levit in a unanimous verdict. Levit was the silver medalist at last year’s Rio Olympic Games. Shiva had previously won a gold in 2013 and won a bronze in the 2015 edition.
Britain down Australia to win sultan Azlan Hockey Cup
Great Britain won the Sultan Azlan Shah Cup for the first time ever on 6 May, 2017. It was defeating defending champions Australia 4-3 in Malaysia. With the victory, Britain became the first European team to win the cup since the Netherlands in 2006. This Victory came to Great Britain in the Azlanshah Cup after 23 years. It becomes the first team from the British Isles to win the Azlan Shah title since 1994.
ICC raises Women’s World Cup Prize Money
International Cricket Council (ICC) tries to popularise women’s Cricket and also the upcoming 2017 World Cup in england by increasing the Prize money to $ 2 million. This is the ten times to the amount that was awarded in the late edition in 2003. The ICC announced that Decision Review System (DRS) will be put in place for the first time in Women’s Cricket during the eight team tournament in June.
India slips to 4th Position in ICC T-20 Rankings
India Slipped to the fourth position in the ICC Twenty – 20 International team rankings in the annual update of the rankings. India dropped two places by having lost six points, giving Pakistan and England an edge to slide higher in the rankings list. In the updated list New Zealand retained its top position with 125 points, England in 2nd position with 121 points. Pakistan too joined England on 121 points after gaining five points but was placed third for being behind England by a fraction of point.
Indian Football Team Reached in Top 100 FIFA Ratings
Indian Football team first time reached it into the top 100 at the FIFA World Cup Ratings. And it if for the first time ever in entire 21 years Indian team reached the Final of FIFA World Cup. As per the updated rankings, the Stephen Constantine Coached side is now placed at the 100th spot along with Nicaragua, Lithuania and Estonia. India is the 11th highest placed team in entire Asia on its rankings.
Soumyajit Ghosh wins Singles and Doubles gold at Chile Open
Indian Table Tennis Player Soumyajit Ghosh has bagged both the singles and doubles gold at the Seamaster 2017 ITTF Challenge Chile Open in Santiago, Chile. Men’s single final was contested between two Indian Players Soumyajit Ghosh and Anthony Amalraj, in which Soumyajit Clinched the title. In Men’s doubles final the Indian Pair of soumyajit & Anthony Amalraj defeated Philipp Floritz and Hunor Szocs. This is the first time India has won a men’s doubles title on either the ITTF World Tour or ITTF Challenge Series.
ECONOMY
India announces $ 500 mn assistance to Mauritius
India on 27 May, 2017 announced a $ 500 million line of credit to Mauritius as the two countries decided to firm up cooperation in the field of maritime security in the Indian Ocean region. The two sides signed a maritime security agreement after bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Mauritian counterpart Pravind Jugnauth. They also done a deal, effective management of conventional and non-conventional threats in the Indian Ocean is essential to purpose economic opportunities and provide security to the people of both the countries.
Pondy CM Presents Tax – Free Budget For 2017-18
Chief Minister of Puducherry, V. Narayanaswamy Presented Rs. 6945 crore Tax-Free budget for the fiscal 2017-18 on May 25, 2017. Total Budget outlay of Rs. 6948 crore comprises Rs. 4445 crore for non-plan head and Rs. 2500 crore under plan. Puducherry government will contribute Rs. 4022 crore from its own resources, while central assistance will be of Rs. 1411 crore. Grants under the centrally sponsored schemes (CSS) including the Central Road Fund (CRF) has been estimated at Rs. 361 crore.
Entertainment, Cable TV, DTH to attract lower Taxes Under GST
The Union Finance Ministry on 23 May 2017 announced that the taxation on entertainment, Cable TV, and DTH services will come down under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime. Cable TV and Direct -To- Home (DTH) services will attract 18 percent GST. With regard to circus theatre, Indian classical dance including folk dance and drama, the GST rate is 18 percent. The Entertainment Services like events or cinematography films in Cinema theatres will attract 28 percent GST with effect from 1 July 2017.
Three Indian Brands among the World’s top 50 Luxury goods companies
The three Indian companies Gitanjali Gems, Titan and PC Jeweller have been named in the list of top 50 luxury companies. In the list it was topped by Louis Vuitton. Gitanjali Gems Ltd was placed in the 30th rank, followed by Titan Company (31st) and PC Jeweller (44th) in the fourth annual Global Powers of Luxury Goods report. The average luxury goods annual sales for a top 100 company stood at USD 2.1 billion.
Japan’s Softbank Invests Rs. 9,000 crore in Paytm
Japan’s Softbank invested 1.4 billion (over Rs.9,079 crore) in digital payments platform paytm. This is the largest fund investment by a single investor in an Indian start-up and also Softbank’s largest investment in a single company in India. The company plans to invest Rs. 10,000 over the next three to five years. Paytm, which runs India’s biggest digital payments system with more than 220 million users.
India Ranks 26 in World Bank Power List
India to be ranked 26th in World Bank’s electricity accessibility list in the current year from 99th spot in 2017. Out of the 15,452 villages which lacked electricity, over 13,000 villages has been provided access to electricity. The flagship scheme Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi with as aim to provide 24×7 uninterrupted electricity supply to each rural household across the country by 2022.
Adani signs steel supply deal with Australian Steel group Arrium
Gautam Shantilal Adani signed a 74 million dollar landmark deal with Australian steel group Arrium to buy steel for a 400 km rail line for its Carmichael coal mine project. Arrium’s division One steel Manufacturing Proprietary limited will supply 54,000 tonnes of steel to build the rail line Adani’s 16 billion dollar Carmichael mine project has been resolved recently.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
US Successfully tests intercontinental ballistic missile defence system
The United States of America on 30 May, 2017 successfully conducted the first ever test of its defence system against an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The test was long planned. US Missile Defence Agency (MDA) stated that a ground based interceptor was launched at a california airbase and it successfully shot down a mock ballistic missile. Experts compare the exercise to hitting a bullet with another bullet. The enormous distance involved further added to the complexity of the test.
India reports its first 3 cases of the Zika Virus
India has reported its first three cases of the Zika Virus, including two pregnant women who delivered healthy babies. Health Ministry Officials said that the three patients in Western Gujarat. Zika is transmitted by the day time active Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. The medical journal Lancet has said 2.6 billion people living in parts of Africa and Asia could be at risk of Zika infection, based on analysis of travel, climate and mosquito patterns in those regions. People infected by Zika Virus never get sick and symptoms are mild for those who do, so surveillance systems may have missed cases.
Researchers discover glass frog in Ecuador
The newly discovered glass frog was found in the Amazonian lowlands of Ecuador. It was so translucent you can see its heart. The remarkable frog, whose beating heart can be seen right through its chest. It has dark green spots on its back, and red heart that can be seen through chest. Scientists have placed the newly discovered frog in the genus Hyalinobatrachium, which are known to share some of its extraordinary traits.
IIT Delhi Scientists develop Cheapest respiratory Filter
Researchers at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi developed cheapest respiratory filter, named “Naso filters”. The filter, which is ready for commercialisation, restricts entry of Up to 95% dust and air pollutants. It is the cheapest naso filter available in comparison to the face masks and other alternatives available in the market to fight critical levels of air pollution. The product will soon be available in Indian and Global markets under the brand name Naso filters by Nano Clean Global Pvt Ltd.
Scientists discover First Natural Human Antibodies against Ebola Virus
A team of scientists from United States of America discovered a possible cure of Ebola Viruses. They have discovered the first natural human antibodies that are capable of neutralising and protecting animals against all three major disease causing Ebola Viruses. Ebola Virus disease is a severe, often fatal illness in humans. It was first identified in 1976 in the Democratic Republic of Congo in a Village near the Ebola.
North Korea missile test way “new type of ballistic rocket”
North Korea has claimed that the missile Hwasong – 12 it tested on 15 May, 20107 was a new type of rocket capable of carrying a large nuclear warhead. The missile, launched at a steep angle, reached an altitude of 2111.5 km (1312 miles) and travelled about 787 km (490 miles), landing in the sea west of Japan. North Korea is believed to be developing an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) capable of carrying a nuclear warhead and reaching the main lands in USA.
India test fires surface to air missile “Spyder”
India on 11 May 2017 test fired a surface to air missile ‘Spyder’ from test range in Odisha as part of missile launch Practice of a series of tests of the short range quick reaction, Spyder was test fired from a mobile launcher at launch complex 3 of the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur and targeted a pilot less target aircraft.
Atmosphere Discovered Around “Worm Neptune”
Astronomers have discovered ‘the primitive atmosphere’ surrounding a planet “Warm Neptune” with the help of NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope and Spitzer Space Telescope. The study revealed that the exoplanet found around 430 light years from Earth has an atmosphere that composed almost entirely of hydrogen and helium, with a relatively cloudless sky.
Brazil declares end to Zika emergency
Brazil on 11 May, 2017 declared an end to public health emergency for the Zika Virus after about 18 months of fight against this mosquito borne virus. The Zika Virus emergency fell up on Brazil when the country was preparing to host the 2016 Olympics, fueling the concerns that Rio Olympics could spread the Virus. In November 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) lifted its own international health emergency status for Zika.
Last dinosaur species to survive on Earth discovered
The fossil of one of the last living African dinosaurs was discovered in a phosphate mine in northern Morocco. The species, Chenani Saurus barbaricus, is reportedly one of the last ones to have survived on earth before an asteroid strike wiped them out 66 million years ago. Its analysis suggests that a distinct dinosaur fauna evolved in Africa following the breakup of the Gondwana supercontinent in the middle of the cretaceous period. Dinosaurs are known to have lived between 230 and 65 million years ago, a period that is known as the Mesozoic Era.
India launches first South Asia satellite GSAT – 9
India launched the first South Asia Satellite built by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and funded entirely by India on 5th May 2017. South Asia Satellite include mapping natural resources, telemedicine, IT – Connectivity and people to people links. It is also expected to cement bonds between Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka and overcome the negative vibes from Pakistan, which is the only South Asian Country to opt out of the project.
China and Europe to build Moon Village
The space agencies of Europe and China discussing about collaborative projects on the moon base. Moon Village will be used as as International launching pad for future missions to mars and also for the development of space tourism. The moon village proposal is along the live of NASA’s aim of getting astronauts to the vicinity of Mars by the end of the 2030.
SpaceX Launches Intelligence Mission on Falcon 9
United States America based manufacturing company Spacex successfully launched and landed a rocket carrying NROL – 76 for US intelligence from the Kennedy Space centre in Florida on 1st May, 2017. This was the fourth Space X booster landing at cape Canaveral and fifth successful mission in 2017. It is the US Space X’s first intelligence mission.
PERSONS IN NEWS
A). APPOINTMENTS
George Kurian appointed as vice Chairperson of National Commission for Minorities
George Kurian has been appointed as Vice Chairperson of National Commission for Minorities on 30th May, 2017. He is a renowned social and educational activist from kerala. Other members of the commission are Sulekha Kumbhare Sunil Singhi and Vada Dasturji Khurshed Kaikobad Dastoor. The government had appointed noted social activist and former national general secretary of the BJP Minority Morcha, Syed Ghayoor Hasan Rizvi as commission’s Chairman.
Syed Ghayorul Hasan Rizvi as Chairman of National Commission for Minorities
Syed Ghayorul Hasan Rizvi has assumed a charge of the Chairman of the National Commission for Minorities in New Delhi. He served as Chairman U.P. Minority Finance Development Corporation Limited. Syed Ghayorul Hasan Rizvi is a Graduate in Arts and also holds Diploma in Mechanics. He has been actively participating in social service. He Worked for the improvement of the basic facilities and working conditions of Beedi Workers and Weaver Community in Uttar Pradesh.
US Senate Confirms Amul Thapar to Key Judicial Post
The United States Senate has confirmed Indian American Judge Amul Thapar to a key judicial position on the powerful US Court of Appeals. The first Indian American to be nominated by President Donald Trump for 6th US Circuit Court of Appeals. Mr Thapar was confirmed by the senate 52-44, a vote which took place on party lines. With this Mr. Thapar will become the second South Asian Judge to be on a US circuit court of Appeals.
Google India head Rajan Anandan appointed IAMAI Chairman
Google’s Vice-President for South East Asia and India, Rajan Anandan appointed as new Chairman of Internet and Mobile Association of India co-founder and Chief executive officer. Make My Trip Chairman and Group CEO Deep Kalra will be the Vice Chairman. Facebook’s managing director for India and South Asia. Umang Bedi will be the new treasurer. Subho Ray will continue to be the President of IAMAI.
Anurag Tripathy Appointed as Secretary of CBSE
Senior bureaucrat Anurag Tripathy was on 25 May, 2017 appointed as the secretary of the Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE). Tripathy, a 1998 batch officer of Indian Railway Personnel Service (IRPS), has been appointed to the post for a period of five years, an order issued by Department of Personnel and Training. The CBSE is a notional school education board. It also conducts IIT JEE and NEET exams for engineering and medicine admission.
Sanjay Mitra took charge as Defence Secretary
Sanjay Mitra took charge as the Defence Secretary on 25 May, 2017. Mitra succeeds G. Mohan Kumar. Mitra, a 1982 batch IAS officer of West Bengal Cadre, will have a fixed two year tenure. His appointment as the new Defence Secretary was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) on 10 May 2017. He also served as Joint Secretary in PM’s office Manmohan Singh from November 2004 to July 2011.
Socialist Lenin Moreno sworn in as President of Ecuador
Lenin Moreno was sworn in as President of Ecuador on 24th of May 2017. The Lenin Moreno is a socialist leader and he is 64years old. Moreno is one of the world’s few paraplegic heads of state and he said in his speech that he will continue anti poverty programmes. Guillermo Lasso, a farmer banker, called for a recount after losing the run off election. The electoral council upheld Moreno’s 2.3 percent margin of victory.
1st Indian Woman elected to city of London Corporation
Rehana Ameer, a 43 year old UK entrepreneurs, has become the first Indian born woman to be elected as a councillor to the city of London Corporation. Ameer, who was born and raised in Chennai, aims to promote city’s businesses in International Markets and focuses on road safety, improved air quality and developing the city’s presence overseas.
Hassan Rouhani As President of Iran
Hassan Rouhani re-elected as the President of Iran. He was elected as President for his first term in 2013. His resounding Victory came after a hard fought election campaign in which he promised to increase Iran’s engagement with the World and improve civil rights domestically. Before winning the 2013 presidential elections, he was a members of the Supreme National Security Council.
Air Marshal PN Pradhan appointed as Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff
Air Marshal PN Pradhan appointed as the Deputy Chief of Integrated Defence Staff (Operations). He was closely associated with the induction and operationalisation of Embraer – 135 and C-130 fleets in the Indian Air Force (IAF). He was awarded ati Vishisht Seva Medal in 2014. Pradhan hold various positions like Assistant Chief of Air staff (Transport and Helicopters) and Assistant Chief of Air Staff (personnel Airmen and Civilians) at Air Headquarters.
Ovais Sarmad appointed as the deputy executive secretary of UNFCCC
Ovais Sarmad is an Indian national appointed by the UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to the post of DeputyExecutive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). He is currently the Chief of Staff to the Director General of the International Organization for Migration. His appointment is mainly aimed to stabilize greenhouse emission and slow down climate change.
Edouard Philippe named as Prime Minister of France
French President Emmanuel Macron on 15 May, 2017 named Edouard Philippe as Prime Minister of France. Philippe comes from the ranks of a center right party outside Macron’s own movement. Philippe is a member of the Les Republican’s party and is close to Alain Juppe, the former Prime Minister who endorsed Macron after he won the first round of the Presidential election. He has also served as mayor of Le Havre in France.
VK Saraswat named as New JNU Chancellor
The HRD Ministry has named scientist and former DRDO chief Vijay Kumar Saraswat as the next chancellor of JNU. A full time member of NITI Ayog, Saraswat will be replacing ISRO Chief K. Kasturirangan, who completed his term on 30 March, 2017. Saraswat was conferred Padma Shri in 1998, Padma Bhushan in 2013 and had served as a chief scientific advisor to the Minister of Defence.
Amitabh Bachchan Appointed WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Hepatitis
Veteran Indian actor Amitabh Bachchan, a Hepatitis B conqueror, was on 12 May, 2017 appointed the Who Goodwill Ambassador for the Hepatitis awareness programme in Southeast Asia Region. He says nobody should suffer from the disease. The famous actor has been brought on board to boost awareness and intensity action to arrest the Hepatitis epidemic. Announcing his association with WHO, Poonam Khetrapal Singh Regional Director for WHO Southeast Asia.
Vinay Mohan Kwatra named new ambassador to France
Vinay Mohan Kwatra named as new ambassador to France. Currently he is a joint secretary in the Prime Minister’s Office. Vinay is a 1988 batch Foreign Service Officer. He will succeed Mohan Kumar. He is an experience of dealing with the UN Organisations such as International Labour Organisation (ILO) and World Health Organisation (WHO). He has also served in Indian diplomatic missions in China and the U.S.
Aruna Sundararajan appointed as secretary of Department of Telecommunications
Aruna Sundararajan was on 10 May, 2017 appointed as secretary of Department of Telecommunications. However, she will continue to serve as the secretary for Union Ministry of Electronics and IT. Aruna succeeds PK Pujari, who was appointed to the post temporarily in March 2017. Sundararajan secretary position will also be temporary. The post of full time secretary JS Deepak was removal from the post in March 2017.
Mark Lowcock to be named as UN Humanitarian Chief
Mark Lowcock, the head of Britain’s International Development Department, has been appointed has United Nation’s new Humanitarian aid Chief by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres. Mr. Low Cock will replace Stephen ‘O’ Brien. Low Cock will be the 4th British National to held post of UN Humanitarian Chief since 2007. His candidature for this post was strongly. Backed by British PM Theresa May.
Sanjay Mitra appointed as defence Secretary
Road Transport & Highways secretary Sanjay Mitra was on 10 May 2017 appointed as Defence Secretary in a top level bureaucratic reshuffle. His appointment was approved by Appointments Committee of Cabinet . Mitra will succeed G. Mohan Kumar, who will completes his tenure on 24 May 2017. Till then, Mitra will function as an Officer on Special Duty in the Defence Ministry. This will be his first posting in the Defence Ministry.
Mukul Mudgal elected head of FIFA Governance Committee
Justice Mukul Mudgal was on 11 May, 2017 elected as head of FIFA’s governance committee at the world football governing body’s 67th Congress in Bahrain’s capital city of Manama. Justice Mudgal was appointed deputy chairman of the governance committee in May last year during the FIFA congress in Mexico. Mudgal has been, involved in overseeing the conduct of International cricket Matches and the IPL games at the Ferozshah Kotla Stadium in New Delhi.
Twitter India appoints Taranjeet Singh as Country Director
Twitter India has appointed Taranjeet Singh as country Director. In this new role, Singh will lead the twitter India team by driving an integrated business strategy and spearheading cross functional collaboration to accelerate. Twitter’s audience and revenue growth in this key growth market. Before joining twitter, Taranjeet Singh held various positions at BBC Advertising and outlook publishing etc.
Venu Rajamony appointed India’s Ambassador to Netherlands
Venu Rajamony appointed as India’s Ambassador to the Netherlands. Rajamony will also be India’s permanent Representative to the Organisation for Prevention of Chemical Weapons based in the Hague and cover the International Court of Justice. Rajamony last position abroad was as Consul General of India in Dubai from 2007 to 2010. He is expected to take up the new assignment in next month.
Moon Jae is as President of South Korea
South Korea liberal leader Moon Jae in took the Oath as President of South Korea. He is expected to strengthen the alliance between the United States and the Republic of Korea and to deepen the enduring friendship and partnership between our two countries. Moon, of the Democratic party, took 41.1 percent of votes, far ahead of conservative Hong Joon Pyo, his closest rival on 24.03 percent of votes.
Sohail Mahmood to be Pakistan’s new High Commissioner to India
Sohail Mahmood, one of Pakistan’s senior most diplomat, will be country’s new High Commissioner to India. Mahmood 55, currently Pakistan’s ambassador in Turkey. He had applied for the visa from Turkey after being nominated for the key job in India. Mahmood may take up his new assignment at the end of this month or early next months. He will succeeded Abdul Basit who has already completed his three year tenure in New Delhi.
Venkaiah Naidu elected as President of UN-Habitat
India has been unanimously elected as the president of the UN-Habitat, an organ of the United Nations Promoting sustainable human settlements across the globe. M.Venkaiah Naidu Chaired the Organ. 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. The 26th meeting of the 58 member Governing Council of UN-Habitat, chaired by Urban Development Minister Venkaiah Naidu began on 8 May, 2017 at Nairobi in Kenya.
3 Indian Origin scientists elected fellows of UK Royal Society
Three Indian Origin scientists have been elected fellows of the Royal Society, Britain’s independent fellowship of many of the World’s most eminent scientists, for their outstanding contributions to science. Krishna Chatterjee from Cambridge University, Subhash Khot from New York University, and Yadvinder Malhi from Oxford University are among 50 distinguished people from across the World elected as the 2017 cohort of fellows of academy.
Emmanuel Macron elected as President of France
Emmanuel Macron was elected French president on 7th May, 2017. He was defeating Marine Le Pen, a far right nationalist who threatened to take France out of the European Union. Mr Macron will also become the first president from outside the two traditional main parties since the modern republics foundation in 1958. Mr Marcon had about 19.3 million votes, while Marine Le Pen scored about 10.4 million was the close rival in elections.
Prabhat Kamal Bezboruah appointed as Chairman of Tea Board of India
Renowned tea planter from Assam, Prabhat Kamal Bezboruah was on 4 May, 2017 appointed as the Chairman of the Tea Board of India. Bezboruah will have tenure till November 2018. With this, Bezboruah became the first non IAS Officer who has became to head the Kolkata headquartered Tea Board, the governing body of the industry. On the other had renowned coffee grower MS Boje Gowda was appointed as chairman of Coffee Board of India.
Braj Bihari Kumar to Succeed SK Thorat As ICSSR Chief
Braj Bihari Kumar will succeed economist prof SK Thorat as the Chairman of the Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR). Mr Kumar editor of Quarterly Journals Dialogue and Chintan Srijan, has been appointed for the top of the social science organisation. Kumar has been appointed for a term of three years. SK Thorat was heading the council since April 2011.
Anil Kumar Singhal appointed as EO for TTD
The Northern IAS officer Anil Kumar Singhal has been appointed to the post of Tirumala Tirupati Devasthanam (TTD) Executive Officer (EO) Presently he was the resident commissioner of Ap Bhavan, at New Delhi. He was 1993 batch IAS Officer. The Govt has issued the orders to Singhal. In 2002 he was worked as Chittoor District Joint collector and then he also worked in 2004 as Medak District Collector.
Anthony Lianzuala takes over as new controller General of Accounts
Anthony Lianzuala took over as the New Controller General of Accounts (CGA) in New Delhi, on 1st May 2017. Earlier the Government of India had appointed Mr. Lianzuala, 1982 batch Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAs) officer, as the new controller General of Accounts (CGA), Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance with effect from May 1, 2017. He will be the first person from the North-Eastern Region to hold this position.
Shobana Kamineni appointed as new CII President
Shobana Kamineni has been appointed as first woman president of confederation of Indian Industry (CII) on 1 May 2017. Shobana is presently an executive vice chairperson of the Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited. She is an Independent Director on the Boards of Blue star Limited and Hero Motocorp. She will take over the top position from the current president Naushad Forbes.
B). RESIGNS
Shaktikanta Das retires as Economic Affairs Secretary
Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das on 31 May, 2017 announced his retirement as the Corporate Affairs Secretary, after being associated with the Government of India for almost 37 years. He will be succeeded by Tapan Ray, who will take the additional charges as the new Economic Affairs Secretary Das served as the Joint Secretary, Ministry of Finance, Department of Expenditure, Govt of India. He also served as secretary of the Industries Department of Government of Tamil Nadu.
Prachanda resigns as Nepal PM
Nepal Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachand has resigned paving way for Nepali Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba to become the next Prime Minister. The resignation is to honor an accord signed in August 2016 when prachanda was elected the Prime Minister with Deuba’s support. According to agreement, Prachanda was to remain in office until the local elections were held while polls at the provincial and central levels were to be conducted under Deuba as the Prime Minister.
Donald Trump step downed FBI Director James Comey
Donald Trump has fired James Comey, the FBI director, over his handling of the investigation into Hillary Clinton’s emails, a dramatic dismissal of the man in charge of investigating the Trump campaign’s connections with Russia. Trump said in a letter to Mr Comey that he was “not able to effectively lead the bureau’. Meanwhile, Trump’s own tweets and media reports indicate he remains furious over the FBI’s investigation of his Campains link to Russia.
C). DEATHS
Veteran Telugu Filmmaker Dasari Narayana Rao Pases Away
Veteran Telugu Filmmaker and former Union Minister Dasari Narayana Rao passed away on 30 May 2017 following heart failure. He was 75, Narayana Rao known for directing movies with legendary actors like NT Rama Rao and Akkineni Nageswara Rao. He was also an active politician in the congress party and served as a Union Minister during the UPA regime. Rao began his career as a theatre artiste and went on to work in films. Rao directed his first film in the early 1970s. He launched the popular Telugu Daily Udayam in 1984.
Former Greek Prime Minister Constantine Mitsotakis dies at 98
Former Greek Prime Minister Constantine Mitsotakis, one of the Greece’s most prominent veteran politicians died on 29 May 2017. Mitsotakis, whose political career spanned more than half a century, was Prime Minister of Greece from 1990 to 1993. Mitsotakis was first elected to parliament at the age of 28 as a member of a liberal party. His son, Kyriakos, in the incumbent President of New Democracy, now the chief Opposition party in the country.
Punjab “Supercop” KPS Gill dies at 82
Punjab Supercop KPS Gill, often credited with rooting out militancy in Punjab Died in the hospital Sir Ganga Ram in Delhi. He was 82. The former Director General of Police (DGD) of Punjab was admitted to the hospital. He was suffering from and stage kidney failure and significant ischemic heart disease. Gill served twice as the DGP of Punjab, is credited with having brought the Punjab insurgency under control. He was retired in 1995.
James Bond Star Roger Moore Dies at 89
Roger Moore, the longest serving movie star to play iconic British spy James Bond in the famed film series, has died on 23 May in switzerland after a brief bout with cancer. He was 89. He was worked as a British soldier after the World War – II. Later Moore was trained in Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts and then he was entered into the pictures. Live and let Die, The Man with the Golden Gun, Moon Maker, For your Icd only, Octopussy, A view To kill were his best pictures on the James Bond brand.
Veteran actress Reema Lagoo passes Away
Veteran Bollywood actress Reema Lagoo died on 18 May 2017 at Kokilaben Hospital in Mumbai. She reportedly suffered a massive cardiac arrest. She was 59. Lagoo who appeared in several hindi and Marathi Films also acted in numerous television shows like Tu Tu Main Main and Shrimaan Shrimati. She played a role of a mother in several Bollywood films like Maine Pyar Kiya, Aashiqui, saajan, Hum Aapke Hain Kaun, Kuch Kuch Hota Hai and so on. She had a presence on Marathi stage for nearly four decades.
Former puducherry CM S. Ramaswamy passes Away
Former Puducherry Chief Minister S. Ramaswamy passed away in Puducherry after a brief illness. He was 80. He was Home Minister in the DMK-CPT Coalition Ministry for a brief period. He was also the Chief Minister in the AIADMK Government in 1977, which lasted in office for a little over one year. He successfully contested as Independent from Karaikal in 1985 and 1990. Ramaswamy joined in Congress Party in 1992.
NCP leaden Arjun Tulshiram passes Away
Senior NCP leader and former Maharashtra minister Arjun Tulshiram Pawar passed away after prolonged illness. He was so, He was the minister of state for tribal welfare in the Congress. NCP Government led by Vilasrao Deshmukh in 1999. The leader, who had for many years represented Kalwan, a constituency reserved for Scheduled Tribes in Nasik District, lost the 2014 state Assembly election.
Legendary Sitarist Ustad Rais Khan passes Away
Renowned sitar maestro Ustad Rais Khan passed away in Karachi, Pakistan. He was 77. Ustad Rais Khan was born in Indian city of Indoe, Madhya Pradesh, on 25 November 1939. The Sitarist’s maternal grandfather Inayat Alikhan was also considered one of the finest Sitar players in the sub continent, Ustad Rais Khan was regarded as one of the greatest sitar players of all times. He was belonged to Mewati gharana, which is connected to Indore gharana.
First Woman Chief Judge of State High Court, Leila Seth Passes Away
Justice Leila Seth, the first woman Judge of Delhi High Court, passed away on 6 May, 2017 after a brief illness in Uttar Pradesh. She was 86. Seth was the first woman to have topped the London Bar Exam, first woman judge of Delhi High Court and also the first woman Chief Justice of a State High Court of Himachal Pradesh. She was one of Three members of Justice verma Committee which was constituted in 2012 to recommend amendments to criminal law.
Dronacharya Awardee Wrestler Capt Chandroop Passes Away
Dronacharya Awarded and Wrestler Captain Chand Roop has passed away. He was 88, Captain Chand Roop was received Dronacharya Award in 2010. He received the award for his Contribution to Wrestling. Roop who was born in 1930 jointed the Indian Army in 1948 in Grenadiers regiment. After retirement from Army in 1979 from the post of captain, he opened an akhara at Azadpur Mandi of New Delhi in 1980.
Sufi legend Begum Yaman passes Away at 52
Famous Sufi singer and daughter of legendary Sitar Maestro (late) Ustad Vilayat Alikhan, Begum Yaman K. Khan has passed away after multiple organ failure. Khan was admitted to the Christian Medical college and Hospital, Ludhiana for the treatment of liver failure and breathed her last at 3. A.m. She was the recipient of “Hazrat Amir Khusro Award”by Urdu Press Club International and an award for her excellence and contribution to semiclassical and sufiana Kalam by Balkan-ji-Bari International.
D). VISITORS
Palestine President arrives on 4-day visit to India
President of Palestine Mahmoud Abbas arrived in India on a four-day State visit. During his stay in New Delhi, President Abbas will visit C-DAC in Noida to forge cooperation between Palestine – India Techno Park being built by India in Palestine and Indian IT industry. The visit of President Mahmoud Abbas will provide an opportunity for reviewing the entire gamut of bilateral relations, regional and international issues. MoUs on cooperation in various sectors are also expected to be signed during the visit. This is his third State visit to India.
PM Modi to visit Sri Lanka today
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is on the two-day visit to Sri Lanka which is a sign of “strong relationship” between the two countries and brings to the fore the shared heritage of Buddhism. During his two-day visit, he will participate in the International Vesak Day celebrations, the biggest festival of Buddhists, inaugurate a hospital built with Indian assistance and address the Indian-origin Tamil community, besides attending some other programs.
E). MISCELLANEOUS
India’s First Electric Cab Fleet to be launched in Nagpur
India’s first electric cab fleet is going to be launched in Nagpur from the 26th of May 2017. With India’s pledge to go all electric by 2030, this is a good way to get things rolling. Union Transport Minister, Nitin Gadkari, had earlier said that the trial of the electric radio cabs will begin from 24th of May 2017 but now that has been postponed by two days to coincide with the three year completion of the Narendra Modi Government. With this Nagpur will be the first city in the country to adopt electric cabs.
Indian – Origin girl Raj Gauri Pawar scores 162 in Mensa IQ Test
At 12, Raj Gauri Pawar has scored in incredible 162 in the British Mensa IQ test. The figure beats Albert Einstein’s estimated score and that of professor stephen Hawking, who scored 160. Raj Gauri is a top 1 percent score, landing her the elite British Mensa membership for high IQ talents across the globe. According to Mensa, the largest and oldest high IQ society in the World. She is one of only 20.000 people to achieve the score world wide.
‘Bahubali 2’ becomes first Indian movie to cross Rs.1000 cr at Box Office
Indian director SS Rajamouli’s Bahubali 2. The conclusion has reportedly created history by crossing 100 crore on the very first day of its release. According to the Box Office India Report, Bahubali 2 crossed the 800 crore mark on 6th day. It earned 800 + crore in India and 200 + crore in overseas. With this ‘Bahubali 2’ becomes first Indian Movie to cross Rs.1000 crore at box office. The main lead of the film, Prabhas’s wan statue as Bahubali will be placed at Madame Tussauds museum. He is only the South Actor, to receive such as honour.
Prince Philip to step down from Royal Engagements
Prince Philip is to permanently retire from royal duties. The 95 year old will no longer carry out public engagements from the Autumn. It was the Duke’s decision taken with the support of the Queen. Prince Philip will attend Previously scheduled engagements between now and August both individually and accompanying the Queen. On 3rd May, 2017 he was opened a new stand at Lord’s Cricket Ground in Central London.
PLACES IN NEWS
Country’s first Ornamental fish Park to Come Up at Chennai
India’s first Aquatic Rainbow Technology Park (ARTP) will be set up in Chennai. The Park will include an ultra modern facility for Ornamental fish Equipped with multi species hatchery and live feed culture units. Tamil Nadu is the second largest exporter of Ornamental fish after West Bengal. The facility is being developed by Fisheries College and Research Institute, Ponneri in Tamil Nadu.
Railway Bridge taller than Eiffel Tower to be built over Chenab River
Railways Ministry on 3 May 2017 announced to build the world’s highest railway bridge over the Chenab river in Jammu and Kashmir in around two years from now. This railway bridge is expected to be 35 metres taller than the Eiffel Tower of Paris. The massive arch-shaped structure of bridge is already under constructed at a cost of around Rs.1100 crore in hostile terrain. It was designed to withstand wind speeds of up to 260 km per hour, the bridge will connect Bakkal (Katra) and Kauri (Srinagar)
Second – tallest flag post comes up in Kolhapur Maharashtra
India’s second tallest flagpole has been inaugurated in Kolhapur at Western Maharashtra. The pole is 300 feet high 90 feet long and 60 feet wide, Weighs 24 tonne, and it cost around 1.1 crore for the installation. Kolhapur Street Beautification project (KSBP), a registered trust, has installed the flag post. CM Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the pole by unfurl a national flag of 5400 sq ft as a part of the “Maharashtra Din” celebrations in the state.
BOOKS IN NEWS
New Book on Virat Kohli’s Winning Formula Revealed by Abhirup Bhattacharya
A new book “Winning Like Virat Think and Succeed Like Kohli” by Abhirup Bhattacharya, unravels the secrets of the cricketer’s consistent form, while attempting decode his philosophy towards life. In this book, the writer etches Virat’s success curve by using statistics that chart his performances and anecdotes from his predecessors and contemporaries in the game. According to Bhattacharya, it is only Virat Kohli who has managed to enjoy fandom that comes ever close to the popularity of Sachin Tendulkar.
Kiren Rijiju unveils World’s first Philosophical book on God
The World’s first Philosophical novel on God was presented by Union Minister Kiren Rijiju. In a rare feat, a young Indian IAS Officer, Haulianlal Guite, who hails from country’s most remote are as of Manipur state has recently published a book titled “Confessions of a dying Mind, the blind faith of atheism” in New Delhi. The book billed as “the world’s first Philosophical novel for god” whose author is arguably the first Indian civil servant to write on Philosophy since John Stuart Mill Published on Liberty way back in 1858.
Union Home Minister releases the book “India 2017 year book”
The Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has released the book ‘India 2017 year book’ authored by the Union Secretary, Shri Rajiv Mehrishi on 23 May, 2017. The CEO, NITI Aayog, Shri Amitabh Kant was also present on the occasion. Mr. Singh said that the Book Would be extremely useful for all competitive exams besides being a storehouse of knowledge stretching overs history of 300 years. He also said that every household should provide this book to children of 8th standard on wards so that they gain comprehensive knowledge of India’s history, economy, social fabric and current affairs.
PM Modi Releases Book Series Written by M.S Swaminathan
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released a two part book series Written by eminent agricultural scientist Dr. M.S. Swaminathan. The series titled M.S. Swaminathan. The Quest for a World without hunger. The Indian Government has honored him with its prestigious national decorations like Padma Shri and Padma Bhushan. He is the Chairman and founder of the M.S. Swaminathan Research Foundation, chennai.
COMMITTEES
Madhav Chitale Committee Recommends Measures for De-Silting Ganga
The Union Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation had constituted a committee to prepare guidelines for desiltation of Ganga River last year. The four member committee is headed by Madhav Chitale (Expert Member of National Ganga River Basin Authority). The other members of the committee include Secretary, Union Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation, Secretary, Union Ministry of Environment, Forests & Climate Change and Dr. Mukesh Sinha, Director, Central Water and Power Research Station, Pune. The committee was constituted as per the commitment made by Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Uma Bharti while chairing the 6th meeting of the National Ganga River Basin Authority in New Delhi in July, 2016.
IMPORTANT DAYS & DATES
World No Tobacco Day 31 May 2017
World No Tobacco Day was first introduced by the World Health Organization to be celebrated as a most recognized event all over the world in order to make people easily get aware of all the problems and health Complications occurred by the tobacco chewing or smoking to prevent all the health hazards to make the whole world free to tobacco and healthy world of people. It was first celebrated on 7th of April in the year 1988 and later it was declared to be celebrated as No Tobacco day on 31st of May every year.
May 29-International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers
The International Day of United National Peace Keepers observed on 29 May globally every year. The theme for the 2017 International Day of Un Peacekeepers is “Investing in peace Around the World”. The Aim of the day is to pay tribute to the uniformed and civilian personnel’s invaluable contribution to the work of the organization and to honour more than 3,500 peacekeepers who have lost their lives serving under the UN flag since 1948.
World Turtle Day May 23, 2017
Every year, World Turtle Day is celebrated across the World on May 23. This day is sponsored since 2000 by American Tortoise Rescue. Celebrating this day is to bring attention to, and increase knowledge of and respect for, turtles and tortoises and encourage human action to help them survive and thrive. According to American Tortoise Rescue, turtles and tortoises are threatened by the exotic food trade, habitat destruction, global warming and pet trade.
International Day of Biological Diversity 22 May
The International Day of Biological Diversity (IDB) is celebrated annually on May 22 around the globe by United Nations. The theme for IDB 2017 is “Biodiversity and sustainable Tourism”. It aims on the opportunity to raise awareness of the important contribution of sustainable tourism both to economic growth and to the conservation of biodiversity. The United Nations in the year 2000 adopted a proposal to proclaim May 22 the International Day for Biological Diversity.
National Anti Terrorism Day observed on 21st May
National Anti Terrorism Day was observed on May 21 across the country to raise the awareness of the danger of terrorism and violence. The day is celebrated to commemorate the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. Chamba Deputy Commissioner Sudesh Mokhada administered the anti-terrorism pledges to the officers and employees of various departments.
World Metrology Day – 20 May
World Metrology Day is observed every year on 20 May. Metrology Plays a Central role in Scientific discovery and innovation, industrial manufacturing and international Trade, in improving the quality of life and in Protecting the global environment. The 2017 theme is Measurements for Transporte. World Metrology Day is an international annual event that marks the signing of the Metre Convention on 20 May 1875 by representatives of seventeen nations.
World AIDS Vaccine Awareness Day May 18
World AIDS Vaccine Day takes place on May 18, 2017. The day, also known as HIV Vaccine Awareness Day, is observed annually. HIV Vaccine advocates mark the day by promoting the continued urgent need for a vaccine to prevent HIV infection and AIDS. The first World AIDS Vaccine Day was observed on May 18, 1998, to commemorate the anniversary of clinton’s speech, and the tradition continues today. Each year communities around the globe hold a variety of activities on World AIDS Vaccine Day.
World Telecommunication and Information Society Day – 17 May
The World Telecommunication and Information Society Day was observed on 17 May 2017. The 2017 theme of this day is “Big Data for Big Impact”. The theme focuses on the power of Big data for Big Impact”. The theme focuses on the power of Big Data for development and aims to explore how to turn imperfect, complex, often unstructured data into actionable information is a development context. In November 2005, the World Summit on the Information Society called upon the UN General Assembly to declare 17 May as World Information and Society Day.
National Dengue Day May 16, 2017
The Government of India has declared 16th May as National Dengue Day by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt of India. Dengue is a viral Disease that is transmitted by the bite of Aedes Mosquito. Dengue has symptoms such as high grade fever 2 to 7 days and headache, Vomiting, muscle and joint pains and Characteristic Skin rash. The disease is endemic in More than 100 countries in the WHO regions of Africa, the America, the Eastern Mediterranean, South East Asia and the Western Pacific.
International Day of Families 15 May
The International Day of Families is Observed on the 15th May every year. This year’s Observance on the focuses role of families and family oriented policies in promoting education and overall well-being of their members. In Particular, the day is to raise awareness of the role of families in promoting early childhood education and lifelong learning opportunities for children and youth. This holiday was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993. The first observation took place on May 15, 2017.
International Mother’s Day May 14, 2017
International Mother’s Day is a ceremony honoring the mother of the family, as well as motherhood, maternal bonds, and the importance of mothers in society. It is celebrated on various days in many parts of the World most commonly in the months of March or May. It supplements similar celebrations honouring families members, such as Father’s Day. Siblings Day, and Grand Parents Day. International Mother’s Day Celebrates the moms in your life at one of these events happening around Metro Vancouver.
International Nurses Day 12 May 2017
International Nurses Day (IND) is celebrated every year all around the world on 12th May. It was to commemorate the birth anniversary of the florence Nightingale and to mark the nurses contributions towards people’s health. Nurses Day was first proposed by the Dorothy Sutherland Can officer from the U.S. Department of Health, Education and Welfare in the year 1953 and first proclaimed by the president Dwight D. Eisenhower.
National Technology Day 2017 May 11
Every year “National Technology Day” is celebrated across India on May 11, being commemorated to memorize the anniversary of Shakti, the Pokhran nuclear test held on 11 May 1998. The day glorifies the importance of science in day to day life and motivates students to adopt science as the career option. Several events are organized in various engineering colleges and technical institutes to mark the occasion. The companies and individual are awarded with National Technology Awards for adopting new technologies by the president of India.
World Migratory Bird Day 10 May
The World Migratory Bird Day (WWBD) is observed across the world on 10th May. the theme of WMBD 2017 is “Their Future is our Future A Healthy Planet for Migratory Birds and People”. This day aims to highlight the independence of people and nature, and more specifically people and migratory birds, as they share the same planet and the same limited resources.
World Red Cross Day May 8, 2017
The World Red Cross Day is celebrated every year on 8th May. This date is anniversary of the birth of Henry Dunant born on 8 May 1828, the founder of International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the recipient of the first Nobel Peace Prize. The Committee exists to provide compassionate care to those in any kind of need. The theme of this year 2017 is “Less Knowned Cross Stories”.
May 4 : International Firefighters Day
International Firefighters Day (IFFD) is observed on May 4 every year. It was instituted after proposal emailed out across the World on January 4, 1999 due to deaths of five firefighters in tragic circumstances in a bushfire in Australia From then May 4 used to be a traditional Firefighters’ Day in Many European Countries, because it is the day of Saint Florian, patron saint of firefighters.
International Labour Day 1 May 2017
International Workers Day, also known as International Labour Day. In some countries, is a celebration of labourers and the working classes that is promoted by the international labour movement, socialists, communists or anarchists. It occurs every year on May Day which is 1st May. It is the day to pay tribute to the labourers. Without them nothing will complete. In India, the first labour day or May Day was celebrated in 1923 in Chennai.
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