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Current Affairs DECEMBER 2019 (Set 02)

Diksha Sharma 30 MINUTES

National News

1. Only Aadhaar-linked accounts to get funds under PM Kisan scheme hereon

1. Only Aadhaar-linked accounts to get funds under PM Kisan scheme hereon
After releasing three instalments of the PM Kisan income support scheme to farmers without insisting on linkage of bank accounts with Aadhaar, the Narendra Modi-led government now seems to be particular that the fourth tranche be transferred to beneficiaries whose bank accounts are linked with Aadhaar. This will be the first time that the government is insisting on mandatory condition of Aadhaar seeding.
The release of funds is expected to inject ₹10,000 crore into the economy at a time when economic growth is depressed and the government is looking for ways to revive the sector especially the rural economy. This will be the largest disbursal of money under the scheme.
From the fourth instalment onwards payment will be made only to farmers whose Aadhaar numbers have been authenticated with their bank accounts," the report quoting an unidentified agriculture ministry official said. The department has so far authenticated more than 50 million bank accounts. Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana -- launched last year -- the government provides income support of ₹6,000 per year to all farmer families in the country in instalments paid four times a year. The instalment due between December 2019 and March 2020 is to be transferred to Aadhaar authenticated accounts.

2. Israeli high school students to launch self-made satellite from ISRO's Sriharikota

2. Israeli high school students to launch self-made satellite from ISRO's Sriharikota
Three youngsters from an Israeli school will travel to India next week to launch a satellite -- Duchifat 3 -- designed and built by them aboard PSLV C48 from ISRO's Sriharikota launch site. Alon Abramovich, Meitav Assulin and Shmuel Aviv Levi, all 17 to 18 years old, are students of Sha'ar HaNegev High school in Israel's southern region. Duchifat 3 is the third Israeli student-made satellites
Duchifat 3 is the third in the series of Israeli student-made satellites. Jointly built by Herzliya Science Center and Sha'ar Hanegev High School students, the satellite is designed to serve children from across the country to "observe the Earth".
The ICA Foundation builds communities in the peripheral areas of Israel and creates job opportunities for the needy.
Duchifat 3 will be a remote sensing satellite through which students from all schools in the country will be able to experiment and carry through earth observation. The satellite is a platform for ecological studies such as air pollution, water source pollution, forest monitoring, and more.
ICA, supported by the largesse of Baron Maurice de Hirsch, has been active for almost 130 years and is currently headed by Sir Stephen Waley Cohen. ICA has been recently promoting educational, agricultural and tourism projects
The ICA in Israel has recently been promoting educational, agricultural and tourism projects in the Galilee and Negev region of Israel. India was chosen for the launch because of the "success enjoyed" by its space programme and "also the close relations between the two countries".
The three Israeli students will be accompanied by their teacher Ram Tamir. Israel's Ministry of Education, Science and Technology Department, Israel Space Agency and Municipality of Herzliya are also said to have actively supported the initiative.

3. President Ram Nath Kovind lays foundation stone for Paika Vidroh memorial at Khurda

3. President Ram Nath Kovind lays foundation stone for Paika Vidroh memorial at Khurda
President Ram Nath Kovind laid the foundation stone of the Paika Vidroh Memorial at Barunei foothills and said that it will be a place of inspiration for future generations. Kovind lauded the efforts of Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik and Union Minister for Petroleum and Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan for construction of the memorial. In 2017, during the commemoration of the 200 years of the Paika Vidroh, the Centre had decided for the construction of the memorial. A chair has been established in the Utkal University for more study and research on the subject.
1. Paramilitary Forces to use Khadi in Uniforms
The paramilitary personnel will now wear Khadi uniforms as the instructions released by Home Minister Amit Shah recently. Amit Shah instructed the heads of paramilitary forces to use the Make-in-India products. Now, more than 10 lakh soldiers of Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF), Border Security Force (BSF), Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP), Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), National Security Guard (NSG) and Assam Rifles will wear Khadi uniforms.
2. Lok Sabha passes bill to extend SC-ST quota in legislatures
Lok Sabha unanimously passed a Constitution amendment bill to extend reservation to SCs and STs in Lok Sabha and state assemblies by another 10 years.
The quota in legislatures for SCs and STs was required to build a new political leadership of the two communities. The reservation for SCs, STs and Anglo-Indians given for the past 70 years in Lok Sabha and state assemblies was due to end on January 25, 2020.
3. Govt to allow girls’ education in all Sainik School
Union Government will allow girls’ education in all Sainik School in a phased manner. Replying to supplementaries during the Question Hour in Rajya Sabha today, Minister of State for Defence Shripad Naik said, presently entry of girls in five Sainik Schools has been allowed.
He said, earlier, the co-educational policy adopted on a pilot-basis at Sainik School in Mizoram and now is being implemented across the country.
4. The Code on Social Security, 2019
The Code on Social Security, 2019 was introduced in Lok Sabha by the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mr. Santosh Kumar Gangwar, on December 11, 2019. It replaces nine laws related to social security, including the Employees’ Provident Fund Act, 1952, the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961, and Unorganised Workers’ Social Security Act, 2008. Social security refers to measures to ensure access to health care and provision of income security to workers.
Under the Code, the central government may notify various social security schemes for the benefit of workers. These include an Employees’ Provident Fund (EPF) Scheme, an Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS), and an Employees’ Deposit Linked Insurance (EDLI) Scheme. These may provide for a provident fund, a pension fund, and an insurance scheme, respectively. The government may also notify: (i) an Employees’ State Insurance (ESI) Scheme to provide sickness, maternity, and other benefits, (ii) gratuity to workers on completing five years of employment (or less than five years in certain cases such as death), (iii) maternity benefits to women employees, (iv) cess for welfare of building and construction workers, and (v) compensation to employees and their dependants in the case of occupational injury or disease.
In addition, the central or state government may notify specific schemes for gig workers, platform workers, and unorganised workers to provide various benefits, such as life and disability cover. Gig workers refer to workers outside of the traditional employer-employee relationship (e.g., freelancers). Platform workers are workers who access other organisations or individuals using online platforms and earn money by providing them with specific services. Unorganised workers include home-based and self-employed workers.
Coverage and registration: The Code specifies different applicability thresholds for the schemes. For example, the EPF Scheme will apply to establishments with 20 or more employees. The ESI Scheme will apply to certain establishments with 10 or more employees, and to all establishments which carry out hazardous or life-threatening work notified by the central government. These thresholds may be amended by the central government. All eligible establishments are required to register under the Code, unless they are already registered under any other labour law.
Contributions: The EPF, EPS, EDLI, and ESI Schemes will be financed through a combination of contributions from the employer and employee. For example, in the case of the EPF Scheme, the employer and employee will each make matching contributions of 10% of wages, or such other rate as notified by the government. All contributions towards payment of gratuity, maternity benefit, cess for building workers, and employee compensation will be borne by the employer. Schemes for gig workers, platform workers, and unorganised workers may be financed through a combination of contributions from the employer, employee, and the appropriate government.
Social security organisations: The Code provides for the establishment of several bodies to administer the social security schemes. These include: (i) a Central Board of Trustees, headed by the Central Provident Fund Commissioner, to administer the EPF, EPS and EDLI Schemes, (ii) an Employees State Insurance Corporation, headed by a Chairperson appointed by the central government, to administer the ESI Scheme, (iii) national and state-level Social Security Boards, headed by the central and state Ministers for Labour and Employment, respectively, to administer schemes for unorganised workers, and (iv) state-level Building Workers’ Welfare Boards, headed by a Chairperson nominated by the state government, to administer schemes for building workers.
Inspections and appeals: The appropriate government may appoint Inspector-cum-facilitators to inspect establishments covered by the Code, and advise employers and employees on compliance with the Code. Administrative authorities may be appointed under the various schemes to hear appeals under the Code. For instance, the appropriate government may notify an appellate authority to hear appeals against the order of the Inspector-cum-facilitator for non-payment of maternity benefits. The Code also specifies judicial bodies which may hear appeals from the orders of the administrative authorities. For example, industrial tribunals (constituted under the Industrial Disputes Act, 1947) will hear disputes under the EPF Scheme.
Offences and penalties: The Code specifies penalties for various offences, such as: (i) the failure by an employer to pay contributions under the Code after deducting the employee’s share, punishable with imprisonment between one and three years, and a fine of one lakh rupees, and (ii) falsification of reports, punishable with imprisonment of up to six months.

4. No pension for govt staff who resign: Supreme Court

4. No pension for govt staff who resign: Supreme Court
An employee becomes ineligible for pension under the Central Civil Services Pension Rules (CCS Pension Rules) when he resigns because he forfeits his past service, the Supreme Court (SC) ruled. The apex court made a distinction between voluntary retirement and resignation which impacts pensionary benefits under the Rules while deciding a case relating to the resignation of an employee of BSES Yamuna Power Limited. The decision to resign results in the legal consequences that flow from a resignation under the applicable provisions. These consequences are distinct from the consequences flowing from voluntary retirement and the two may not be substituted for each other based on the length of an employee’s tenure. The CCS Pension Rules apply to government servants including civilian government servants in the Defence Services appointed before December 31, 2003. As per the rules, an employee forfeits his past service upon resignation, consequently disentitling him to pension. However, an employee who has completed 20 years of service can voluntarily retire from service, which will enable him to avail of pensionary benefits.
In this case, the employee, Ghanshyam Chand Sharma, had resigned from service on July 7, 1990. He was subsequently denied pension on the grounds that he had forfeited his past service by resigning. Additionally, the company also argued that Sharma had not completed 20 years of service which would have entitled him to take voluntary retirement. The Delhi high court had ruled in favour of the employee on the grounds that he had completed 20 years of service and his resignation should, therefore, be treated as voluntary retirement. The high court ordered the payment of pensionary benefits to Sharma, following which the BSES went in appeal to the Supreme Court. The Supreme Court noted that Sharma had resigned from service after his application for voluntary retirement was rejected on the grounds that he had not completed 20 years of service.

5. Nilgiri Mountain Railway conducts special service for foreign tourists

The UNESCO-recognized Nilgiri Mountain Railway (NMR) conducted a special service for foreign tourists. 71 tourists from several countries, including the USA, the UK and France travelled by a special steam engine service from Coonoor to Ooty. The NMR is one of the few railways in the world that uses the unique rack and pinion system, with its special third rail to negotiate gradients en route from Mettupalayam in the foothills of the Western Ghats in Tamil Nadu to Ooty, the Queen of Western Ghats.

6. 2.3 million children in India unvaccinated for measles

6. 2.3 million children in India unvaccinated for measles
US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in its Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, reported on the state of measles around the world. In 2018, measles caused an estimated 10 million cases and 1, 42,000 deaths globally. There were nearly 70,000 cases of measles in India in 2018, the third-highest in the world. At 2.3 million, India has the second-highest number of unvaccinated children.
Measles and Rubella (German measles) are contagious viral disease that is spread by contact with an infected person through coughing and sneezing. Measles is caused by Rubeola virus and Rubella is caused by Rubella virus.
Both of them can be entirely prevented with a two-dose of MMR (Measles, Mumps, and Rubella) vaccine.
India has initiated the world’s largest Measles-Rubella (MR) Campaign in 2017. It targets vaccination of 410 million children and adolescents aged between 9 months and 15 years.
It is also covered under Mission Indradhanaush. Launched in 2014, the mission aims to cover all those children by 2020 who are either unvaccinated or partially vaccinated against vaccine-preventable diseases
Under the Global Vaccine Action Plan, WHO has targeted to eliminate measles by 2020
‘Measles Elimination and Rubella/CRS Control by 2020’: In 2013, WHO SEAR initiated ‘Measles Elimination and Rubella/CRS Control by 2020’. It seeks to curb and control measles and rubella through immunization, surveillance and developing and maintaining an accredited measles laboratory network.

7. Lok Sabha passes Citizenship (Amendment) Bill

The Lok Sabha passed the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, which seeks to provide Indian citizenship to non-Muslim refugees coming from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan after facing religious persecution there.
According to the proposed legislation, members of Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian communities, who have come from Pakistan, Bangladesh and Afghanistan, till December 31, 2014 facing religious persecution there, will not be treated as illegal immigrants but given Indian citizenship.
As per the bill, “on and from the date of commencement of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, any proceeding pending against a person under this section in respect of illegal migration or citizenship shall stand abated on conferment of citizenship to him.”
The provisions of the amendments to the Act would not apply to tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram or Tripura as included in the Sixth Schedule to the Constitution and the area covered under ‘The Inner Line’ notified under the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873. Manipur has been brought under the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime through a Gazette Notification today. The Bill also seeks to amend the Third Schedule to the Act to make applicants belonging to the said communities from the aforesaid countries eligible for citizenship by naturalisation if they can establish their residency in India for five years instead of the existing eleven years.

8. In PSLV’s 50th mission, ISRO successfully launches RISAT-2BR1

8. In PSLV’s 50th mission, ISRO successfully launches RISAT-2BR1
PSLV-C48 also carried 6 US satellites and one each from Israel, Italy and Japan
History was made at Sriharikota space launch centre with the successful 50th mission of the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, the workhorse of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO).
The PSLV-C48 lifted off from the First Launch Pad (FLP) of the Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota, carrying the the RISAT-2BR1 (primary satellite), a radar-imaging earth observation satellite. The satellite will be used in applications such as agriculture, forestry and disaster management support.
Weighing about 628 kg, the satellite was placed into a 576-km orbit at an inclination of 37 degrees. The PSLV-C48 also carried nine international satellites — six from the US and one each from Israel, Italy and Japan. These international customer satellites were launched under a commercial arrangement with NewSpace India Ltd.
The PSLV-C48 is the second flight of PSLV in ‘QL’ configuration with four strap-on motors. This was the 75th launch vehicle mission from SDSC SHAR, Sriharikota, and 37th launch from the FLP. For the last 26 years of PSLV history, the PSLV project was led by leaders such as S Srinivasan, who conceptualised and configured the vehicle, and Madhvan Nair, former ISRO chairman, who made the vehicle operational. In the last 26 years, the PSLV has had five variants with the carrying capability increased to 1.9 tonnes from 850 kg. This vehicle has so far lifted a total of 52.7 tonnes of which 17 per cent is customer satellites, he said.

9. Ministry of Tourism has identified 17 sites in 12 clusters in the country for development as Iconic Tourist Sites

The Government has identified some world class iconic tourist stations in India to attract foreign and domestic tourists. Pursuant to the Budget Announcements of 2018-19, Ministry of Tourism has identified 17 sites in 12 clusters in the country for development as Iconic Tourist Sites namely Taj Mahal & Fatehpur Sikri (Uttar Pradesh), Ajanta & Ellora (Maharashtra), Humayun’s Tomb, Red Fort & Qutub Minar (Delhi), Colva (Goa), Amer Fort (Rajasthan), Somnath & Dholavira (Gujarat), Khajuraho (Madhya Pradesh), Hampi (Karnataka), Mahabalipuram (Tamil Nadu), Kaziranga (Assam), Kumarakom (Kerala) and Mahabodhi Temple (Bihar).
The Ministry shall be developing the above sites in a holistic manner with a focus on issues concerning connectivity to the destination, better facilities/experience for the tourists at the site, skill development, and involvement of local community, promotion & branding and by bringing private investment. The development of Iconic Tourist sites scheme is awaiting approval of the Ministry of Finance.

10. PM Narendra Modi bags India's 'Golden Tweet' of 2019

Prime Minister Narendra Modi's tweet celebrating the Bharatiya Janata Party's re-election victory in 2019 was the most retweeted and liked tweet of the year, making it the "Golden Tweet" in India.
In sports, Vikat Kohli (@imVkohli) wished M.S. Dhoni (@msdhoni) on his birthday, which became the most retweeted tweet in the world of sports. This heartfelt tweet by Kohli on Dhoni's birthday with a picture of the duo together made for an epic moment for Indian cricket fans.

11. Nagaland Govt Brings Dimapur under Inner Line Permit Regime

11. Nagaland Govt Brings Dimapur under Inner Line Permit Regime
The Nagaland government has extended the Inner Line Permit (ILP) regime to the Dimapur district. Dimapur, the commercial hub of the state, was the only district that was not under the ILP regime unlike the rest of Nagaland, which came into being in 1963.
In exercise of the powers conferred under Section 2 of the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulation, 1873, and in the interest of the public, the Governor of Nagaland is pleased to extend the Inner Line to cover the entire District of Dimapur with immediate effect. The state Cabinet had approved on February 15 the proposal to extend the ILP to Dimapur. All non-indigenous people who have entered the district after November 21, 1979, will have to obtain ILP within 90 days from December 9. It said that those who have settled or have entered before November 21, 1979, and have been staying continuously, will be exempted from the ILP regime "along with his/her direct descendants". However, it said that non-indigenous persons living in Dimapur prior to November 21, 1979, will have to produce documents to the deputy commissioner for exemption.
Any non-indigenous person passing through the district as a transit passenger and having a valid ticket will not be required to obtain an Inner Line Permit. The ILP regime was also extended to neighbouring Manipur with President Ram Nath Kovind signing the order in this effect. To visit the ILP-regime states, outsiders, including people from other states of the country, need to take permission. There are also protections for the locals with regards to lands, jobs and other facilities. Besides Nagaland and Manipur, the ILP regime is also applicable to Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram.

12. Draj Bridge for all-weather connectivity inaugurated in Jammu and Kashmir Rajouri

Jammu and Kashmir Lt Governor Shri Girish Chandra Murmu opened 72-metre-long Bridge to the Nation in Rajouri. The bridge over Draj nallah connects Draj Area with Tehsil Kotranka area under District Rajouri and is constructed to bear heavy load up to 70 tons.
The Draj bridge is an essential bridge for the military as well as for the socio-economic development of Rajouri District. This bridge will facilitate the all-weather and speedy movement of Army troops as well as locals. The 110 Road Construction Company of the 31 Task Force under Project Sampark of Border Roads Organisation (BRO). BRO is involved with more projects in the area to strengthen the road network. The support extended by the residents and civil administration in overcoming various challenges faced by the BRO during the construction of the bridge. The nation-building through infrastructure development and war preparedness through the construction of roads, bridges, and tunnels. The BRO is playing an essential role in the field of surface transport by connecting far-flung inaccessible remote areas along borders. General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command Lt Gen Ranbir Singh, 16 Corps Commander Lt Gen Harsha Gupta, and Divisional Commissioner Jammu were also present during the occasion.

13. ASI identified 138 monuments as "Must See Monuments": Min

13. ASI identified 138 monuments as
The ASI has identified 138 monuments as "Must See Monuments” and the information has been made available on the "Must See" portal of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). There are 38 World Heritage Sites in India, out of which 22 cultural sites including monuments/ buildings and caves are under the protection of the ASI.
The "Must See" list features outstanding Indian monuments and archaeological sites, under the protection of the ASI, including those that feature on UNESCO's World Heritage List.
Such monuments and sites display exceptionality in terms of arts and architecture, planning and design, are a unique testimony to the civilization in the past and are an outstanding types of buildings showing exemplary engineering skills.

14. Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana for Disabled Persons

A Central Sector Scheme namely ‘Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana’ (RVY) is being implemented by D/o Social Justice and Empowerment (M/o SJ&E) with an objective to provide to senior citizens, belonging to BPL category and suffering from age-related disabilities/ infirmities, with such physical aids and assisted living devices which can restore near normalcy in their bodily functions.
Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD) under M/o SJ&E is implementing ‘Assistance to Disabled Persons for Purchase/Fitting of Aids and Appliances (ADIP)’ Scheme under which aids and assistive devices are distributed to eligible Divyangjan for their physical, social, psychological and economic empowerment. Persons with disabilities fulfilling following conditions would be eligible for assistance under ADIP Scheme:
an Indian citizen of any age.
· Holds a 40% Disablement Certificate.
· Has monthly income from all sources not exceeding Rs. 20,000/- per month.
· In case of dependents, the income of parents/guardians should not exceed Rs. 20,000/- per month.
· Who have not received assistance during the last 3 years for the same purpose from any source. However, for children below 12 years of age, this limit would be one year.

15. India Announces a “Green Window” to Catalyze Climate Finance

15. India Announces a “Green Window” to Catalyze Climate Finance
To meet India’s massive 450 gigawatts of clean energy target, Indian officials announced new financing approach to boost investment in clean energy during the climate talks in Madrid this week. The Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA), the country’s premier public finance institution, is considering an allocation of $20 million in seed funding to set up its pioneering “Green Window” aimed toward catalyzing private investment and expanding the Indian clean energy market. A green window is a financing approach designed leverage limited government funds to attract private capital to achieve climate and clean energy goals. The IREDA Green Window builds on the globally successful green bank model. Green banks across the world have supported projects worth $50 billion in the last five years.
The aim of the IREDA Green Window is to drive investment into underserved segments of the clean energy market. Under MNRE and IREDA’s leadership, the Green Window is based on extensive market research and stakeholder discussions involved in financing clean energy.
Established in 1987, IREDA has played a significant role in mainstreaming renewable energy lending in India. However, despite the exemplary early growth in solar and wind over the last five years, the asking rate to meet the 450 GW of renewable energy goal, announced by Prime Minister Modi earlier this year, is much higher. India’s goal is more than five times the current installed capacity of renewables and would need massive new investment. To meet the challenge, IREDA plans to transform financing India’s clean energy markets by establishing the Green Window as a dedicated facility for developing catalytic risk mitigation and aggregation instruments.
NRDC and CEEW have been working with the Indian government on green catalytic finance for several years. Supported by IREDA, we developed a framework for the green window and at the 2018 RE-Invest, MNRE, IREDA along with NRDC and CEEW released an extensive issue brief, “Framework for Catalytic Finance”. In early 2019, along we deliberated with IREDA’s top leadership on the strategy for the Green Window. And, in September this year, IREDA, along with NRDC and CEEW held a working session for key IREDA staff to dive deeper into the Green Window mission and operational plan. Last year,
India is one of the top three nations leading global renewable energy growth. As of November 2019, India is about halfway to its 2022 target of 175 GW while aiming for higher goals of 450 megawatts by 2030. Achieving the 175 GW goal alone would increase clean energy access for millions of Indians and, additionally, could create up to 1 million job opportunities for over 300,000 workers by 2022, according to an analysis by the Skills Council for Green Jobs, NRDC and CEEW. The IREDA Green Window will have a big impact in achieving the renewable energy goals and can play a transformative role in creating a self-sustaining financial ecosystem for clean energy in India.

16. Culture Ministry launches a portal to showcase Indian culture

16. Culture Ministry launches a portal to showcase Indian culture
Union Minister of State (M/s) for Culture and Tourism (IC) Prahlad Singh Patel, launched the Indian Culture web portal, http://www.indian culture.gov.in, which brings together all the cultural resources of the country on one platform. The Indian Culture portal was envisioned by Union Ministry of Culture and was developed by a team from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Bombay in collaboration with Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU), over the course of three years. This project is a part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s Digital India initiative to showcase information about the rich tangible and intangible cultural heritage of India both at home and abroad. The larger aim of portal is to create awareness among the citizens about the diverse heritage of our country.
The Indian Culture Web Portal is the first government authorized portal where knowledge and cultural resources of various organizations of Ministry of Culture, such as the National Archives of India, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Smriti, Archaeological Survey of India and Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, are now available in public domain on a single platform.
This portal is a digital resource of documents, artefacts, paintings and other items available in the archive. It hosts images, audio-video files and other data from archives, museums, academies and libraries across the nation. Information about more than 90 lakhs items are currently available on this portal.
One of the unique features of portal is the stories, based on original archival documents narrated in an interesting, easy to read and understand format. Portal also contains write-ups and beautiful pictures on festivals, folk art and classical art, cuisines, paintings, from different states of India, along with rich information about rare books, manuscripts and research papers on India’s cultural heritage.
Content on the portal is available in both English and Hindi language in an interactive, user-friendly interface. The portal also will soon be available in other regional languages.

17. President Kovind signs order to extend ILP regime to Manipur

17. President Kovind signs order to extend ILP regime to Manipur
President Ram Nath Kovind signed an order to extend Inner Line Permit (ILP) to Manipur on December 12. In Assam, the Bodo, Karbi, and Dimasa areas fall under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, so this law will not apply there too.
The Inner Line Permit is a document that allows an Indian citizen to go or live in a protected state under the ILP system for a specific period of time. The Inner Line Permit is currently applicable in four northeastern states - Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram. It is important to get an ILP to travel to these states. It has a fixed duration; outside citizens cannot live in these states after that period. The concept of an inner line permit was formulated during the British Government. An inner line permit is a travel document issued under the Eastern Frontier Regulations in 1873. Actually, the purpose of the British government was to protect their business interests by preventing Indians from doing business in these areas. The Government of India changed it in the year 1950. After independence, this rule was changed to a protective system to protect the local population from attacks of mass exodus. Now, those people need a permit who are not 'natives' in these states despite they are long-term residents. Such people have to renew their permits every six months.
The concerned state issues ILP. It can be obtained by applying online or directly from the government office. The ILP card indicates travel dates and also specifies the specific areas in the state that an ILP holder can travel.
Those states fall under ILP will not affect by Citizen Amendment Bill (CAB). The beneficiaries will become Indian citizens under the citizenship amendment bill but they will not be able to settle in these four states. Arunachal Pradesh and Nagaland are not much affected by illegal migrants. However, Mizoram shares its border with Bangladesh. The most affected states with illegal migration are – Assam, Tripura and Meghalaya.

International News

1. Malaysia vaccinating for polio after first case in 27 years

1. Malaysia vaccinating for polio after first case in 27 years
Malaysia began a vaccination campaign in a rural town on Borneo island after a 3-month-old boy was confirmed to have polio in the country’s first case of the highly infectious virus in 27 years.
The infant from Tuaran town in Sabah state tested positive for vaccine-derived poliovirus type 1 after he was hospitalized with fever and muscle weakness. He is on respiratory support but his condition is stable. Malaysia is the second Asian country to have reported a polio case after an outbreak in the Philippines in September. The World Health Organization says polio, which has been largely eradicated, remains endemic in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The tests showed the baby’s strain had genetic links to the polio virus detected in Philippines and investigations are ongoing to determine the cause of the infection. Malaysia’s last polio case occurred in 1992 and the country was declared polio-free in 2000.
The health ministry said the strain was believed to have originated from a weakened virus contained in oral polio vaccine that was excreted from the body through feces and possibly spread in an unsanitary environment to those who haven’t been immunized. Malaysia switched from oral vaccine to inactivated polio vaccine since 2008, that is given to children via injection in combination with several vaccines for other infectious diseases including diphtheria, pertussis and tetanus.

2. Saudi Arabia ends gender segregation in restaurants

2. Saudi Arabia ends gender segregation in restaurants
Saudi Arabia will no longer mandate that restaurants segregate seating areas and entrances according to gender and marital status. The landmark decision is the latest in a series of changes upending decades-old practices in the notoriously conservative Islamic kingdom. Until now, most restaurants had separate entrances and dining areas for women and families and for single men. Even in many Western chains like Starbucks or KFC, partitions often separated customers and in some smaller cafes that lacked space for partitions, women were simply not allowed.
In the last year, however, a growing number of restaurants in major cities have been quietly relaxing those restrictions and letting men and women mingle freely.

3. Russia and Ukraine make small steps toward peace, but no big leap

3. Russia and Ukraine make small steps toward peace, but no big leap
Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a “full and comprehensive implementation” of a cease-fire in the Donbass region of Ukraine before the end of 2019. Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met in person for the first time in a bid to resolve a long-running conflict in eastern Ukraine between pro-Russian separatists and Ukrainian forces.
The conflict is one of the worst seen in modern Europe yet it is also largely seen as a “forgotten” war, having rumbled on for more than five years. In that time over 13,000 people have died, according to the United Nations, and hostilities have affected 3.9 million civilians living in the region. Putin and Zelensky held a bilateral meeting as well as joint meetings with French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Angela Merkel, who have previously tried to broker a peace deal between the divided neighbors. The group has become known as the “Normandy Four” and Monday was the first time it had met since October 2016.
elations between Russia and Ukraine collapsed in early 2014 when Russia annexed Crimea from the country and then supported a pro-Russian uprising in the Donbass region in eastern Ukraine in which separatists proclaimed two pro-Russian republics of Donetsk and Luhansk. Russia is subject to international sanctions for its actions, and the lifting of some of those restrictions are tied to its implementation of a peace deal with its neighbor.

4. Anti-Doping Agency Bans Russia From International Sports Events For 4 Years

4. Anti-Doping Agency Bans Russia From International Sports Events For 4 Years
The World Anti-Doping Agency's executive committee says Russian athletes can't compete under their flag at international events for the next four years, declaring Russia's Anti-Doping Agency to be noncompliant with its rules. The committee says critical data about Russia's athletics programs was "neither complete nor fully authentic."
WADA says Russia won't be able to take part in high-profile events such as the upcoming Summer Olympics in Tokyo or the 2022 World Cup and Winter Olympics in Beijing because it has continued to provide fake information. The ban applies to Russian officials and agencies in its sports apparatus — but it also offers a pathway for Russian athletes to compete if they can prove they're "clean." WADA says it now has a list of all Russian athletes who are suspected of doping — including a core group of 145 athletes it says are the "most suspicious."
The Russian Anti-Doping Agency now has 21 days to accept or dispute the sanction. If it appeals, the case would move to arbitration by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. The decision prompted an angry response from U.S. Anti-Doping Agency CEO Travis Tygart, who issued a statement saying, "To allow Russia to escape a complete ban is yet another devastating blow to clean athletes, the integrity of sport and the rule of law."
In addition to the four-year ban, WADA says Russia must also pay a fine of up to $100,000 — an amount it says is the maximum allowed under its rules.

5. Bougainville Votes for Independence From Papua New Guinea

5. Bougainville Votes for Independence From Papua New Guinea
The region of Bougainville, a collection of islands in the South Pacific, has voted overwhelmingly to become independent from Papua New Guinea, aiming to become the world’s newest nation.
In a referendum linked to a peace agreement that ended a civil war between separatists and Papua New Guinea security forces nearly 20 years ago, nearly 98 percent of those who voted supported becoming an independent nation.
For Bougainville — an area with huge mineral wealth and 250,000 people — the vote also makes it much harder for Papua New Guinea to move slowly through the consultation period required under the 2001 peace agreement that provided a pathway to independence.
The Bougainville Peace Agreement granted the region more autonomy, and those who opposed secession hoped the pact’s lengthy timeline — allowing for a nonbinding referendum on independence within 20 years — would also prompt Papua New Guinea’s government to develop an equitable revenue-sharing deal for the mine, along with other services that might build loyalty to the central government.

6. IUCN adds 1840 new species to the Red List of Threatened Species

6. IUCN adds 1840 new species to the Red List of Threatened Species
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) added about 1,840 new species to its updated “Red List of Threatened Species”, a catalogue of plants and animals that risk extinction. The list now contains over 30,000 species under threat of disappearing. The group released its Red List update in the middle of COP25 climate talks in Madrid, Spain. The year 2020 will see two global IUCN gatherings, first in June in Marseille, France and another in Kunming, China, in October.
IUCN finds that hundreds of plant and animal species who already face the threat of habitat destruction, are now under further pressure from manmade climate change.
IUCN had earlier witnessed a genuine declines in 73 species since its last assessment. This new update reveals the ever-increasing impacts of human activities on wildlife. Moreover, the Climate change is adding to multiple threats species face, and there is a to act urgently and decisively to curb the crisis.
More than 1 million species are now at risk of vanishing as insatiable human demand puts them in danger of overexploitation, habitat loss, pollution and climate change.

7. World's first fully electric commercial aircraft takes flight in Canada

The world’s first fully electric commercial aircraft has taken its inaugural test flight, taking off from the Canadian city of Vancouver and flying for 15 minutes.
The company designed the plane’s motor and worked in partnership with Harbour Air, which ferries half a million passengers a year between Vancouver, Whistler ski resort and nearby islands and coastal communities.

Economy, Business & Defence News

1. NTPC signs pact for ₹5,000-crore term loan with SBI

1. NTPC signs pact for ₹5,000-crore term loan with SBI
NTPC has signed a term loan agreement for ₹5,000 crore with State Bank of India. A company statement said that the loan facility has been extended at an interest rate linked to 3-month MCLR of the bank and has a door-to-door tenure of 15 years. The loan will be utilised to part finance the capital expenditure of NTPC. In March this year, the company had raised $450 million (over ₹3,000 crore) through a 5-year bond offering in the international markets. This issuance was under the $6 billion (over ₹43,000 crore) Medium Term Note (MTN) programme. Later in July, NTPC raised ₹4,300 crore through bonds, which were to be used for capital expenditure and general corporate requirements. In August, the group got shareholders’ nod to raise up to ₹15,000 crore through issuance of bonds and to raise its borrowing limit to ₹2 lakh crore.
There was some troubling news for NTPC in November when Moody’s Investor Service revised its rating outlook to ‘Negative’ from ‘Stable,’ while retaining the investment rating.

2. Exercise Iron Union 12 commenced on 10 December

Exercise Iron Union 12 commenced on 10 December 2019. It is a joint military exercise between the ground forces of the UAE and the United States. The exercise was commenced in the presence of Lieutenant General Terry Ferrell, commander of US Army Central, USARCENT and Major General Saleh Mohamed Saleh Al Amiri, UAE Commander of Land Forces.
Iron Union 12 is a joint military cooperation between the two countries was aimed to enhance combat and tactical capabilities. The exercise reflects the determination of the UAE Armed Forces. The UAE military has proved to stand firm against all threats and challenges facing the region.

3. Walmart & Amazon unveil MSME push, amid backlash from industry groups

3. Walmart & Amazon unveil MSME push, amid backlash from industry groups
US-based retailers Walmart and Amazon stepped up efforts to boost their image of being MSME-friendly by launching similar, albeit different, training programmes for India.
Walmart, which had earlier this year bought a controlling 77 per cent stake in home-grown Flipkart, announced the creation of a supplier training and development programme ‘Walmart Vriddhi’. The programme aims to train 50,000 small businesses so as to enable them to be suppliers for global supply chains. The global retail conglomerate has tied up with NGO Swasti to open 25 training institutes where it aims to train micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) entrepreneurs in tailored courses.
Jeff Bezos-owned Amazon’s Indian arm, on the other hand, announced a partnership with industry body Confederation of Indian Industry “to facilitate MSMEs to develop their business further by listing and selling their products and services online”. Amazon India will also conduct workshops, roadshows and e-commerce training for MSMEs with an objective to train them in “leather & footwear, apparels & textiles, automobile, cycle parts and handicrafts” businesses.

4. India & Australia hold third 2+2 dialogue in New Delhi

4. India & Australia hold third 2+2 dialogue in New Delhi
The third India-Australia Secretary-level 2+2 dialogue was held in New Delhi. The Indian side was led by Defense Secretary Ajay Kumar and Foreign Secretary Vijay Gokhale, while its counterpart delegation was led by Australia’s Defense Secretary Greg Moriarty and Foreign Secretary Frances Adamson. Ahead of 3rd 2+2 dialogue, the two defense secretaries of India & Australia held a bilateral meeting. The Indian defense secretary expressed satisfaction on ongoing defense engagements between armed forces of two countries, and conveyed India’s commitment to further enhance defense cooperation with Australia, both in scope and complexity.
This year’s edition of 2+2 dialogue, assumes additional significance as they come months after India, Australia, Japan and the United States (US) decided to upgrade their interactions in ‘Quadrilateral Security Dialogue’ (Quad) format to ministerial level in September 2019. All aspects of bilateral relations will be reviewed, with a focus on security and strategic relations.
The main focus of 2+2 dialogue will be on bilateral outcomes for Australia’s Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s visit in January 2020. Morrison is visiting India at the invitation of his counterpart Prime Minister Narendra Modi and will deliver the inaugural address at Raisina Dialogue.

People in News

1. Miss South Africa crowned 2019 Miss Universe

1. Miss South Africa crowned 2019 Miss Universe
Zozibini Tunzi was crowned Miss Universe night after excelling through rounds of swimsuit and evening gown struts, questions on social issues and one final chance to explain why she was the right choice. The two runners-up for the crown were Miss Mexico and Miss Puerto Rico. Harvey hosted the pageant for the fifth time sporting a bedazzled green and gold suit jacket.
He was commenting on a costume from earlier in the week and said Miss Philippines won the National Costume Contest. He was right, but the woman who came out on stage said she was Miss Malaysia.

2. National Stock Exchange appoints Girish Chandra Chaturvedi its chairman

Leading stock exchange NSE said it has appointed Public Interest Director Girish Chandra Chaturvedi as its new chairman. The appointment comes following the approval of the market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI).
The position was vacant since Ashok Chawla resigned as the chairman of the National Stock Exchange(NSE) in January.

3. At 34, Finnish minister Sanna Marin becomes world's youngest PM; to head women-led cabinet

Sanna Marin, 34, from the dominant Social Democrats, was chosen by her party as the sole candidate for prime minister. Centre Party chief Katri Kulmuni, 32, will get the finance post when the new cabinet is officially nominated. Finland's government resigned last week after the Centre Party said it had lost confidence in Social Democrat Prime Minister Antti Rinne over his handling of a postal strike.
Finland was one of the first country in Europe to give women voting rights back in 1906 and the first country in the world to vote women to parliament in 1907. Marin will be the third female to head the government.

4. India's GS Lakshmi set to become first woman referee in a men's ODI match

4. India's GS Lakshmi set to become first woman referee in a men's ODI match
Former India cricketer GS Lakshmi is set to become the first woman match referee to oversee a men's ODI when she officiates the opening match of the third series of the World Cup League 2 in the United Arab Emirates.
Lakshmi will oversee the match between the United Arab Emirates and the United States of America at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium. The competition aims to provide development opportunities for officials. This is the second significant achievement for Lakshmi this year, following her appointment as the first woman onto the ICC International Panel of Match Referees in May. The 51-year old, who first officiated as a match referee in domestic women's cricket matches in 2008-09, has now overseen three women's ODI matches, 16 men's T20 Internationals and seven women's T20 Internationals.

5. George Laurer, co-inventor of the barcode, dies at 94

5. George Laurer, co-inventor of the barcode, dies at 94
George Laurer, the US engineer who helped develop the barcode, has died at the age of 94. Barcodes, which are made up of black stripes of varying thickness and a 12-digit number, help identify products and transformed the world of retail. They are now found on products all over the world. The idea was pioneered by a fellow IBM employee, but it was not until Laurer developed a scanner that could read codes digitally that it took off.
The UPC went on to revolutionise "virtually every industry in the world,'' IBM said in a tribute on its website. In the early 1970s, grocery shops faced mounting costs and labour-intensive need to put price tags on everything. The UPC system used lasers and computers to quickly process items via scanning. This meant fewer pricing errors and easier accounting.
The first product scanned, in Ohio in June 1974, was a packet of Wrigley's Juicy Fruit chewing gum. It is now on display at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington. Fellow IBM employee, Norman Woodland, who died in 2012, is considered the pioneer of the barcode idea, which he initially based on Morse code.
Although he patented the concept in the 1950s, he was unable to develop it. It would take a few more years for Laurer to bring the idea to fruition with the help of low-cost laser and computing technology.

6. Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri signs three-year deal with Puma

Indian men's football team captain Sunil Chhetri has signed a three-year deal with PUMA. The Bengaluru FC skipper is currently the second-highest goal-scorer in international football after Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo.
With this deal, Chhetri has now joined the list of global players like France's Antoine Griezmann, Belgium's Romelu Lukaku, Uruguay's Luis Suarez and Argentina's Sergio Aguero among others.
Chhetri is the most-capped Indian player and is also the all-time top goal scorer for the Indian team. He has been named as the AIFF Player of the Year six times. He was also conferred with the Arjuna award in 2011 and Padma Shri in 2019.

MoUs and Agreements

1. MOU signed Between NSIC & ARAMCO Asia for development in Oil & Gas Sectors

An MoU has been signed recently between NSIC and Aramco Asia for the development of MSME Ecosystem in India in Oil & Gas Sector. This MoU will pave a way for accredited Indian MSMEs to carve out a space as vendors in the Global space. From NSIC side Sh. P. Udayakumar, Director (P&M) and from Aramco side Mr. Mohammed Al Mughirah, President ,Aramco Asia inked the MoU. The dignitaries H.E. Dr. Said Bin Mohammed Al Sati, Ambassador of Saudi Arabia, Mr. Abdullah Melfi, Strategic Sourcing Head, Aramco, and more than 200 units from India witnessed the event. NSIC is the flagship Mini Ratna PSU under the Ministry of MSME in the business of facilitating MSMEs in India and Aramco is world's largest Oil & Gas Company from Govt. of Saudi Arabia having reported revenue of USD 355 Billion Dollar (2018) and estimated market value of 1.5 Trillion Dollars.

Awards

1. ‘World Habitat Award’ for Odisha’s JAGA Mission

1. MOU signed Between NSIC & ARAMCO Asia for development in Oil & Gas Sectors
Recently, Odisha has won the 'World Habitat Award' for its ambitious initiative- Jaga Mission.
It aims at transforming the slums into livable habitat with all necessary civic infrastructure and services at par with the better off areas within the same urban local body and to continuously improve the standard of the infrastructure and services and access to livelihood opportunities.
World Habitat Award. This award is given by World Habitat, in partnership with United Nations Habitat, every year, in recognition of innovative, outstanding, and revolutionary ideas, projects, and programmes from across the world in the field of housing.
United Nations Habitat or United Nations Human Settlements Programme is the United Nations agency for human settlements. It is mandated by the UN General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities with the goal of providing adequate shelter for all. It was established in 1978 as an outcome of the first UN Conference on Human Settlements and Sustainable Urban Development (Habitat I) held in Vancouver, Canada, in 1976.
UN-Habitat is headquartered at the United Nations Office at Nairobi, Kenya.
World Habitat is an international not-for-profit organisation/foundation established in the United Kingdom. It works internationally to help bring the best housing to the people who need it the most.
Odisha Liveable Habitat Mission (OLHM)- JAGA is a society under the Housing & Urban Development Department, Government of Odisha. The slum land titling mission was being executed in collaboration with Tata Trusts and Norman Foster Foundation.
Odisha government rolled out this first of its kind project on May 7, 2018.
This mission was also awarded the 'India Geospatial Excellence Award' for technological innovation in transforming the lives of urban poor. This award is given by GeoSmart India which is an interactive platform that demonstrates the collective and shared vision of the Indian geospatial community and is the most prominent stakeholder event of the Indian geospatial ecosystem.

2. Abu Dhabi selected as world’s leading sports tourism destination

Abu Dhabi (UAE) has been selected as the world’s leading Sports tourism Destination at the 26th edition of the World Travel Awards (WTA) being held in Muscat, Oman. This is the 7th time in a row that Abu Dhabi has been selected for this coveted award. The award is the latest in several prestigious accolades gained by Abu Dhabi this year, including being selected as the West Asia’s Leading Business Tourism Destination at the West Asia edition of WTA and Best City Break at the UK’s Selling Travel Agents’ Choice Awards.
Abu Dhabi shined as a premium destination once again for sports tourism in 2019 after hosting so Abu Dhabi me of the world’s top sporting events, such as the FIFA Club World Cup 2017 and 2018, the first edition of the UAE Tour, the AFC Asian Cup 2019, the Special Olympics World Games 2019, the UFC 242 showdown and the Brazil vs South Korea international friendly match.
Sports tourism has been labelled by the United Nations World Travel Organisation, UNWTO, as one of the fastest-growing sectors of tourism worldwide. World Travel Awards was established in 1993 to acknowledge, reward and celebrate excellence across all key sectors of the travel, tourism and hospitality industries.

Rankings & Indexes

1. Centre releases list of best police stations, Andaman's Aberdeen tops them all

1. Centre releases list of best police stations, Andaman's Aberdeen tops them all
Aberdeen in Andaman and Nicobar Islands is the best police station in India, followed by Balasinor in Gujarat and Ajk Burhanpur in Madhya Pradesh. The government has prepared a list of best performing police stations in the country. These rankings were based on a rage of parameters such as addressing the number of offences related to property disputes, crime against women and crime against weaker sections at a police station.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah said a majority of police stations that were short-listed from the thousands of police stations in the country were those located in small towns and rural areas.

2. India climbs one spot to 129th in 2019 human development index: UNDP

India climbed one spot to 129 among 189 countries in the 2019 human development index, according to a report by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). In India, 27.1 crore people were lifted out of poverty from 2005-06 to 2015-16, UNDP India resident representative Shoko Noda said. India ranked 130 last year. The steady progress was due to nearly three decades of rapid development, which had seen a dramatic reduction in absolute poverty, along with gains in life expectancy, education, and access to health care. As per the HDI, no other region had experienced such rapid human development progress. South Asia was the fastest growing region witnessing 46 per cent growth during 1990-2018, followed by East Asia and the Pacific at 43 per cent.

3. Arms sales worldwide up nearly 5%, says new report

3. Arms sales worldwide up nearly 5%, says new report
Arms sales rose by nearly five percent worldwide in 2018 in a market dominated by the United States, according to a new report published by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The turnover of the 100 biggest arms manufacturers came to $420 billion, thanks in large part to the US market, said the report. US manufacturers alone accounted for 59% of the market, or a turnover of $246 billion, up 7.2% on the previous year.
Russia was second in the rankings for arms production, with 8.6% of the market, just ahead of the United Kingdom on 8.4% and France on 5.5%.
The study did not include China, for which there was insufficient data, but SIPRI’s research estimated that there were between three and seven Chinese businesses in the top 100 arms manufacturers.
Two major European companies, Airbus and MBDA were also responding to “demand due to ongoing armed conflicts and severe tensions in several regions.” China has spent 1.9% of its gross domestic product on defence every year since 2013.
The top-ranked Russian firm, Almaz-Antey, jumped to ninth on the list with turnover of $9.6 billion – 18% up on the previous year. One of the buyers of this system is NATO member Turkey, which took the deal despite a US threat of sanctions.
Turkey’s arms industry had two businesses in the top 100 and turnover of $2.8 billion, up 22% on the previous year. Turkey was “driven by the goal of being self-sufficient in arms supply and therefore develop arms production capabilities in all segments (land systems, air systems, naval systems, missiles, etc.)
The world’s largest arms maker remains the US firm Lockheed Martin, as it has been since 2009, this last year with turnover of $47.3 billion. Its sales alone account for 11% of the world market.

4. Mumbai tops list of worst traffic flow in the world, Delhi at fourth spot

4. Mumbai tops list of worst traffic flow in the world, Delhi at fourth spot
Traffic flow in Mumbai is the worst in the world, while Delhi is close behind at fourth position, according to a new report detailing the traffic situation in 56 countries. In the financial capital of India, journey during rush-hour takes 65 per cent longer. In Delhi it is 58 percent longer, the report prepared by location technology specialist TomTom, which also supplies maps for Apple and Uber. It, however, said traffic in the two cities decreased slightly in 2018. Mumbai takes the top spot this year with drivers in the Indian city expecting to spend an average of 65 percent extra travel time stuck in traffic. Next in the global rankings are Bogota (63 per cent), Lima (58 per cent), New Delhi (58 per cent) and Moscow (56 per cent), making up the top five most congested cities in the world. In 2018, the average traffic congestion in Mumbai was 65 per cent, a slight decrease from 66 per cent in 2017. While the city's lowest congestion was 16 per cent on March 2, 2018, its worst was 111 per cent on August 21, it said.
Delhi recorded an average of 58 per cent traffic congestion in 2018, a 4 per cent decrease compared to 2017. Like Mumbai, Delhi too experienced its lowest congestion on March 2, 2018, (6 percent). The city's worst traffic congestion was 83 per cent on August 8, 2018.

Days and Events

1. International Universal Health Coverage Day-12 December

1. International Universal Health Coverage Day-12 December
Theme of International Universal Health Coverage Day 2019: Keep the promise
On 12 December 2012, the United Nations General Assembly endorsed a resolution urging countries to accelerate progress toward universal health coverage (UHC) – the idea that everyone, everywhere should have access to quality, affordable health care - as an essential priority for international development. On 12 December 2017, the United Nations proclaimed 12 December as International Universal Health Coverage Day (UHC Day) by resolution 72/138.
International Universal Health Coverage Day aims to raise awareness of the need for strong and resilient health systems and universal health coverage with multi-stakeholder partners. Each year on 12 December, UHC advocates raise their voices to share the stories of the millions of people still waiting for health, champion what we have achieved so far, call on leaders to make bigger and smarter investments in health, and encourage diverse groups to make commitments to help move the world closer to UHC by 2030.

2. National Energy Conservation Day 2019 Observed

2. National Energy Conservation Day 2019 Observed
This day is observed every year on December 14 in India. National Energy Conservation Day is organized by the Energy Efficiency Bureau (BEE), a subordinate Ministry of Power. It aims to showcase India's achievements in energy efficiency and conservation. The Energy Conservation Act in India was implemented in 2001 by the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). The BEE is celebrating 'National Energy Conservation Week' from 9 to 14 December 2019 to raise awareness among the general public about the importance of energy efficiency and conservation.
Energy Conservation is a term to use the least amount of energy while avoiding unnecessary use of energy. It aims to save energy for future use. This day emphasizes every person to include energy conservation in their behavior. Energy Efficiency Bureau said that anyone can save energy by taking small steps at home or office by eliminating unnecessary use of light, fan, AC or any other electric instruments.
National Energy Conservation Day is organized in India to create awareness among the public about the importance of saving and conserving energy. Also, it is also informed that how people can use the energy for its better use in the future. Apart from this, information is given to explain the true meaning of energy conservation and to minimize the wastage of energy. Its main objective is to reduce energy consumption and encourage people to use it efficiently.

3. COP25 Summit: In a first, India among top 10 countries with higher climate performance

3. COP25 Summit: In a first, India among top 10 countries with higher climate performance
India, for the first time, ranks among the top 10 in this year's Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) presented at the COP25 climate summit. The current levels of per capita emissions and energy use in India, ranked 9th in the "high category", are still comparatively low and, along with ambitious 2030 targets, result in high ratings for the greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy use categories. However, despite an overall high rating for its Climate Policy performance, experts point out that the Indian government has yet to develop a roadmap for the phase-out of fossil fuel subsidies that would consequently reduce the country's high dependence on coal.
The authors of the report noted that while the country receives an overall medium rating in the renewable energy category, India's 2030 renewable energy target is rated very high for its well-below 2 degrees Celsius compatibility
In 31 of the 57 high emitting countries assessed, collectively responsible for 90 per cent of emissions, falling emission trends are recorded.
While some EU countries such as Sweden (4th) and Denmark (5th), one of the best climbers, achieve overall high or very high ratings, the performance of EU countries varies largely.
China, the largest global emitter slightly improves its ranking in the index to 30th place ("medium"). The authors noted that China scores with a very good performance for its increased share of renewables in the energy mix over recent years and relatively good policy ratings, but the poor performance in emissions and energy efficiency still weighs heavily.
If China implements its extensive plans for new coal-fired power plants, there is a risk of a severe relapse to the bottom of the ranking. While only two G20 countries, the UK (7th) and India (9th), are ranked in the "high" category, eight G20 countries are remaining in the worst category of the index ("very low"). Australia (56th out of 61), Saudi Arabia and above all the US perform particularly poor - the US is the worst performer for the first time. Under the Trump administration, the US is rated "low" or "very low" in almost all categories, according to the index.

Sports News

1. Wasim Jaffer becomes 1st player to play 150 Ranji games

1. Wasim Jaffer becomes 1st player to play 150 Ranji games
Veteran opener Wasim Jaffer achieved another first-class milestone as he made his 150th appearance in Ranji Trophy cricket. Featuring for Vidarbha, Jaffer is playing his 150th Ranji game against Andhra at the Devineni Venkata Ramana Praneetha Ground. Jaffer is followed by Devendra Bundela and Amol Muzumdar, who have 145 appearances and 136 appearances in the Ranji Trophy. Jaffer has 40 tons to his name in his Ranji career and has amassed 11775 runs. The Mumbai-born batsman has played a total of 253 first-class matches, scoring 19,147 runs, averaging 51.19. He has represented India in 31 Tests and 2 ODIs. Jaffer's 150th Ranji match's start was however, was delayed after a snake entered the Dr. Gokaraju Liala Gangaaraju ACA Cricket Ground here.

2. Top-ranked Ashleigh Barty named WTA Player of the Year

2. Top-ranked Ashleigh Barty named WTA Player of the Year
Australian Ashleigh Barty, whose breakout 2019 campaign included French Open crown and world number one ranking, was named the WTA Player of the Year.
Barty, who is the first Australian to top the women’s tennis rankings since Evonne Goolagong Cawley in 1976, took the award with 82 percent of the media vote.
It was a fitting end to a campaign that saw Barty claim her first Grand Slam title at Roland Garros. Her four titles in 2019 included the prestigious WTA Finals, where she cemented her place atop the year-end rankings. Barty, who led the tour with 57 match wins, had ascended to number one in September and finished the year nearly 2,000 points ahead of second-ranked Karolina Pliskova. The 23-year-old started the season ranked 15th in the world. Her coach, Craig Tyzzer, was named WTA Coach of the Year. Canada’s 19-year-old US Open champion Andreescu was named Newcomer of the Year.
American Sofia Kenin was named Most Improved Player, Switzerland’s Belinda Bencic was Comeback Player and top doubles team honors went to Timea Babos and Kristina Mladenovic.