New Ministry of Co-operation: A Fillip to the Co-operative Movement

On 6th July, 2021, the Union Government created a new Ministry of Co-operation with an aim to strengthen the cooperative movement in the country. The subject, ‘Co-operatives’ earlier came under the aegis of the Ministry of Agriculture. Objective To realise the vision of ‘Sahkar se Samriddhi’ (through cooperation to prosperity). Need for Separate Co-operation

The Coconut Development Board (Amendment) Bill 2021

On 29th July, 2021, the Rajya Sabha passed the Coconut Development Board (Amendment) Bill, 2021. Objective To amend the Coconut Development Board Act, 1979. To amend the composition of the Coconut Development Board to improve its management and administration. Need Limited Market Access Under section 10 of the Coconut Development Board Act, 1979, the production and

Special Livestock Sector Package

On 15th July, 2021, the government approved implementation of a special livestock sector package (SLSP). The package has been designed by revising and realigning various components of the Department of Animal Husbandry & Dairying’ Schemes for the next five years, starting 2021-22. Aim To boost growth in the livestock sector and thereby making

Harit Dhara: Antimethanogenic Feed Supplement

Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed an anti-methanogenic feed supplement ‘Harit Dhara’ (HD), which can cut down cattle methane emissions by 17-20% and can also result in higher milk production. Need Livestock in India emit an estimated 9.25 million tonnes (mt) to 14.2 mt of methane annually. Ruminants in India tend

Parliament Passes Factoring Regulation (Amendment) Bill

On 29th July, 2021, the Parliament passed the Factoring Regulation (Amendment) Bill that seeks to amend the Factoring Regulation Act, 2011. The Bill has incorporated many suggestions from the U K Sinha Committee. Objective To open up factoring business to non-bank lenders and thus address the capital needs of small businesses. Need There

Parliament Passes Marine Aids to Navigation Bill 2021

On 27th July, 2021, Parliament passed the Marine Aids to Navigation Bill 2021. Objectives To replace over 90-year-old Lighthouse Act 1927, To incorporate the global best practices, technological developments and India's International obligations in the field of Marine Aids to Navigation To fulfill the government’s vision to make the legislative framework user-friendly and to

Production-linked Incentive Scheme extended to Specialty Steel

On 22nd July, 2021, the Union Cabinet approved Production-linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Specialty Steel to be provided over five years. Aim To promote manufacturing of specialty steel grades within the country by providing financial incentives. Need Low Production: Out of the production of 102 million tonnes steel in India in 2020-21, only

National Institutes of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Mgt. Bill 2021

On 26th July, 2021, Parliament passed the National Institutes of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management Bill, 2021. It aims to improve and introduce new changes in food, bio-nanotechnology, cold chain technology, etc. Key Provisions Institutes of National Importance (INI): The Bill declares certain institutes of food technology, entrepreneurship, and management as institutions

Amendments to the Limited Liability Partnership Act 2008

On 3oth July, 2021, the government introduced the Limited Liability Partnership (Amendment) Bill in the Rajya Sabha which seeks to encourage the startup ecosystem and further boost ease of doing business in the country. The Bill seeks to amend the Limited Liability Partnership Act, 2008. Background In January, 2021, the Company Law Committee

Airport Economic Regulatory Authority Amendment Bill 2021

On 4th August, 2021, the Parliament passed the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) Amendment Bill, 2021 to expedite assets monetisation plan and for faster development of smaller airports in the country. It seeks to amend the Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India Act, 2008. Need Typically, airports run the risk of

Secured Logistics Document Exchange Programme

On 28th July, 2021, the government launched the Secured Logistics Document Exchange (SLDE) along with a Calculator for Green House Gas Emissions. Need The digital initiatives have been launched to fill the gap areas where no action has yet been taken either by private players or any of the line ministries. Objective To improve

The Future of Work for Women within the Formal Sector in India

Recently, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI ) with support from the government of Japan released a study titled“The Future of Work for Women in the Formal Sector in India”. Key Findings Alternative Work Arrangements: The Alternative work arrangements in the

Open Network Digital Commerce

On 6th July, 2021, the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) issued orders appointing an advisory committee for its Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) project that is aimed at curbing “digital monopolies” About ONDC ONDC aims at promoting open networks developed on open sourced methodology, using open specifications

Post Devolution Revenue Deficit Grant

On 7th July, 2021, the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance, released the 4th monthly installment of Post Devolution Revenue Deficit (PDRD) Grant to the States. About Post Devolution Revenue Deficit Grant The Post Devolution Revenue Deficit Grant is provided to the States under Article 275 of the Constitution. The grants are released

Bhalia Wheat

The first shipment of Geographical Indication (GI) certified Bhalia variety of wheat was exported on 7th July to Kenya and Sri Lanka from Gujarat.The GI certified wheat has high protein content and is sweet in taste.The crop is grown mostly across Bhal region of Gujarat which includes Ahmadabad, Anand, Kheda,

Surveillance Laws and the Right to Privacy: The Pegasus Controversy

Recently, a global collaborative investigative project has discovered Israeli spyware Pegasus was used to target thousands of people across the world including India. While the government has denied any wrongdoing or carrying out any unauthorized surveillance, but these revelations highlight a disturbing trend of the usage of illegal surveillance and threat

Emigration Bill 2021

The Ministry of External Affairs invited public inputs to the Emigration Bill 2021. It intends to replace the Emigration Act of 1983 and to consolidate and amend the law relating to emigration of citizens of India. Need Serious Exploitative Conditions In recent times, the majority of migrant worker deaths in the Arab

Parliament Passes Juvenile Justice Amendment Bill 2021

On 28th July, 2021, Parliament passed the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Amendment Bill, 2021, which seeks to amend the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015. It also aims at strengthening the provisions on protection and adoption of children. Need Significant Delay in Adoption Process: The 2015 Act provides that the adoption proceedings

Anti-Defection Law

Leader of Opposition in the Goa Legislative Assembly is set to move a private member’s resolution during the next session of the Assembly to bring about “necessary changes” in the anti-defection law. About Anti-Defection Law The anti-defection law was passed in 1985 through the 52nd Amendment to the Constitution. The Amendment added

West Bengal passes Resolution to revive Legislative Council

On 6th July, 2021, West Bengal government passed a resolution to set up Legislative Council with a two-thirds majority. The West Bengal Legislative Council was set up in 1952 and abolished in 1969 by a coalition government of Left parties. About State Legislative Council (Vidhan Parishad) Indian legislation follows a bicameral system at

Election of Speaker & Deputy Speaker

Since February 2021, Maharashtra has been without a Speaker, while the Lok Sabha and numerous state assemblies are without a Deputy Speaker. The Constitution of India requires the Speaker to be a member of the House. Article 93 for Lok Sabha and Article 178 for state Assemblies state that these Houses “shall,

Section 66A of IT Act

On 5th July, 2021, the Supreme Court issued a notice to the Centre on the use of Section 66A of the IT Act that was scrapped several years ago and said that it is shocking that the judgment striking down the law has not been implemented even now. The Supreme Court

SC strikes down Provisions of 2021 Tribunal Reforms Ordinance

On 14th July, 2021, the Supreme Court has struck down the provisions of Tribunal Reforms (Rationalisation and Conditions of Service) Ordinance, 2021, which fixed the term of members of various tribunals as four years by stating the decision of the Government is irrational, arbitrary, and discriminatory. What the SC said? The court

No Immunity to Legislators for Acts of Vandalism

On 28th July, 2021, the Supreme Court held that legislators who indulge in vandalism and general mayhem cannot claim parliamentary privilege and immunity from criminal prosecution. The Supreme Court has rejected Kerala government’s plea to withdraw criminal cases against its MLAs who were charged in the Assembly. The Kerala Government had claimed

Tele-Law Initiative

Recently, the Justice Department commemorated the milestone of crossing 9 lakh beneficiaries under its Tele-Law programme through Common Service Centres. About Tele-Law Launched by the Ministry of Law and Justice in collaboration with the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) in 2017 to address cases at pre–litigation stage. The main objective of

Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act (CEA) 2010

On 27th July, 2021, the Supreme Court issued notice on a plea which said the Covid-19 spread has “exposed the lacunae in Indian healthcare system” and sought “proper implementation of Clinical Establishments (Registration and Regulation) Act, 2010” and rules framed thereunder, which among others seeks to fix rates for various

Dismissal of J&K Govt Employees

On 14th July, 2021, The Governor of Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) dismissed 11 J&K government employees for alleged terror links under provisions of Article 311(2)(c) of the Constitution. About Article 311 Article 311 of the Constitution deals with ‘Dismissal, removal or reduction in rank of persons employed in civil capacities under the

Central Information Commission

The Supreme Court has directed the Union of India and all States to file status reports on the latest developments regarding vacancies and pendency in the Central Information Commission (CIC) and State Information Commissions (SICs). About Central Information Commission (CIC) It was established by the Central Government in 2005, under the provisions

Chief Minister

Article 164 of the Constitution envisages that the Chief Minister shall be appointed by the governor. A leader of the party that has got the majority share of votes in the assembly elections is appointed as the Chief Minister of the state. A person who is not a member of

SCO Defence Ministers’ Meeting

The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Defence Ministers’ Meeting was held in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, from 27th to 29th July, 2021. Meeting Highlights Terrorism was highlighted as the most serious threat to international peace and security and any act of terror and support to such acts, including cross border terrorism, the

Nord Stream 2 Pipeline

Recently, the US signalled its approval for the Nord Stream 2 Pipeline Project between Russia and Germany. Earlier, it had imposed sanctions to prevent the completion of the gas pipeline. The Nord Stream 2 Pipeline It is a 1,200-km pipeline that will run from Ust-Luga in Russia to Greifswald in Germany through

The OPEC+ decides to withdraw Output Cut

Recently, OPEC and its allies led by Russia agreed to gradually withdraw COVID-19 related production cuts by September 2022. Background In April 2020, the OPEC+ group had entered into a two-year agreement which entailed steep cuts in crude oil production to deal with a sharp fall in the price of crude oil

Visit of US Secretary of State to India

On his recent visit to India, the US Secretary of State and India’s External Affairs Minister had discussions on a wide range of issues. This follows India’s External Affairs Minister’s visit to the US in May 2021. Earlier, they both had detailed conversations during the G7 meeting (in the UK)

India assumes Presidency of UNSC

On 1st August, 2021, India assumed the presidency of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) for the month of August. The country began its two-year tenure as a non-permanent member of the UNSC in January 2021. India’s UNSC Presidency This will be India’s first presidency during its 2021-22 tenure as a non-permanent

Pre-Summit of the UN Food Systems Summit 2021

From 26th to 28th July, 2021, the three-day Pre-Summit of the United Nations Food System Summit 2021 was organized jointly by the United Nations and the Government of Italy. About the Pre-Summit The summit took place in the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) headquarters in Rome. It was organized in preparation for the

The Hunger Hotspots Report

On 30th July, 2021, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) and the World Food Programme (WFP) released the ‘Hunger Hotspots – August to November 2021 Outlook’ report. Hunger Hotspots Hunger hotspots are countries and situations where part of the population is likely to face fast deterioration of acute

G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) Meeting

On July 9th and 10th, 2021, under Italy’s Presidency, the Third G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors (FMCBG) Meeting was held. Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs, Smt. Nirmala Sitharaman participated virtually in the meeting. Discussions were held on a wide range of issues including global economic risks and

China-led South Asian Initiative

Recently, the Foreign Minister of Bangladesh said that India can join, if it so desires, the China-led South Asian initiative for COVID-19 vaccines and poverty alleviation. A meeting of the Foreign Ministers of China, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka in April preceded the decision to create the China-South Asian

India and Bangladesh reopen Haldibari-Chilahati Rail Link

On 1st August, 2021, Bangladesh and India resumed regular operation of freight trains through the restored Haldibari-Chilahati rail route after over 50 years. The restored rail link was inaugurated by the Indian Prime Minister and his Bangladesh counterpart in December 17, 2020. Haldibari is located in the Cooch Behar

Bill to Grant Provisional Provincial Status to Gilgit-Baltistan

Recently, Pakistani authorities have reportedly finalised a law (26th Constitutional Amendment Bill), to award provisional provincial status to strategically located Gilgit-Baltistan. It is strategically located on the north western corner of the Union Territory of Ladakh, bordering Pakistan, Afghanistan and China. It is one of the disputed territories of India.

Historic Protests in Cuba

Recently, thousands of Cuban citizens took to the streets for the first time in more than six decades to protest against deteriorating living conditions, lack of basic goods and services, restrictions on rights, scarcity of food and medicines and the increasing numbers of coronavirus infections. The protests, calling for an

Human Genome Editing: WHO’s New Recommendations

On 12th July, 2021, the World Health Organization (WHO) released two companion reports that provide advice and the first global recommendations on appropriate institutional, national, regional and global governance mechanisms for human genome editing. Background In December 2018, the WHO established a global, multidisciplinary expert advisory committee (the WHO Expert Advisory Committee

New Insights into Star Formation Process in the Milky Way

Recently, an international team of astronomers that included Indian scientists (from the Indian Institute of Science and the Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology) shed light on how stars form and die in our home galaxy, the Milky Way. The study was part of the GLOSTAR (Global View on Star

Moon-forming Region observed around Exoplanet PDS 70c

Recently, a team of scientists spotted, for the first time, a moon-forming region around an exoplanet - a planet beyond our solar system. It is a Jupiter-like world surrounded by a disc of gas and dust massive enough to spawn three moons the size of the one orbiting the Earth.

InSight Mission reveals Mars’ Deep Interior

On 22nd July, the international team of NASA's InSight mission unveiled, for the first time, the internal structure of Mars. The findings are published in three papers based on the study of the seismic waves from quakes detected by NASA’s robotic InSight lander. The InSight Mission A part of NASA’s Discovery Program

‘NEA Scout’: NASA’s Solar Sail Asteroid Mission

Recently, National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) informed that its new spacecraft - Near-Earth Asteroid Scout or NEA Scout - has completed all necessary tests and is safely tucked inside the Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. NEA Scout NEA Scout is a miniaturized spacecraft, known as a CubeSat, developed under NASA’s Advanced

BBX32: A Protein that helps in Plant Growth Regulation

In a significant discovery, a team of scientists from the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER), Bhopal, recently identified a protein - BBX32 - that plays a critical role in plant growth regulation. Context After a seed germinates, dicot plants develop two embryonic leaves called cotyledons. These remain in a

Successful Flight Tests of Akash-NG and MPATGM

On 21st and 23rd July, 2021, the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted two successful flight-tests of the New Generation Akash Missile (Akash-NG), a surface-to-air Missile, from Integrated Test Range (ITR) off the coast of Odisha. On 21st July, the Man Portable Antitank Guided Missile (MPATGM) was also successfully

New AI-based Tool to detect Cancer Causing Mutations

Recently, scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras developed an Artificial Intelligence-based mathematical model (algorithm) called NBDriver (neighbourhood driver) to identify cancer-causing mutations in cells. NBDriver Mutations that offer a selective growth advantage to the cancer cells, and thus promote cancer development, are termed ‘driver’ mutations, whereas those that do

AMLEX: The Oxygen Rationing Device

Scientists from the Indian Institute of Technology, Ropar, have developed a first-of-its-kind oxygen rationing device, AMLEX, which helps increase the life of medical oxygen cylinders three fold. How Oxygen is wasted during Inhalation and Exhalation During exhalation, the oxygen in the oxygen cylinder/pipe is pushed out along with the CO2 exhaled

I-STEM enters Second Phase

An initiative of Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Govt. of India under the aegis of Prime Minister Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC) mission, the Indian Science, Technology and Engineering facilities Map (I-STEM) has been accorded extension for five years and enters its second phase with

Indigenous Sensor to detect Arsenic Contamination

An Indian scientist from the National Agri-Food Biotechnology Institute (NABI), Mohali, has developed an ultra-sensitive, easy-to-use sensor for detecting arsenic contamination in food and water samples in 15 minutes. Developed on mixed metal (cobalt/molybdenum) based metal-organic frameworks, it can detect arsenic from 0.05 ppb to 1000 ppm. The sensor is highly

SpaceX to launch NASA’s ‘Europa Clipper Mission’

SpaceX - Elon Musk’s private rocket company – has been awarded a $178 million launch services contract for the Europa Clipper Mission, NASA’s first mission to Jupiter’s icy moon Europa. The mission has been scheduled for launch in October 2024 on a Falcon Heavy rocket owned by Musk’s company, Space Exploration

‘Nauka’

On 29th July, 2021, Russia’s Multipurpose Laboratory Module (MLM) – Nauka – docked with the International Space Station (ISS). The module was launched on 21st July.Nauka will provide more room for scientific experiments and space for the crew. The module will serve as a new science facility, docking port, and

EU Introduces ‘Fit for 55’ Legislation

On 14th July, 2021, the European Union introduced the ‘Fit for 55’ package - new legislation that proposes sweeping changes - to cut its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 55 per cent by 2030 (compared with 1990 levels) and to net zero by 2050. The proposals require endorsement by the European

Water-related Hazards Dominated Disasters in the Past Five Decades

On 23rd July, 2021, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) shared some of the details of a comprehensive analysis according to which, water-related hazards dominate the list of disasters in terms of both human and economic toll over the past 50 years. Key Highlights According to the forthcoming ‘WMO Atlas of Mortality and

First Draft of Post-2020 Global Biodiversity Framework

On 12th July, 2021, the UN Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Secretariat released the first draft of a new Global Biodiversity Framework that aims to guide actions worldwide through 2030 to preserve and protect nature and its essential services to people. Building on the Strategic Plan for Biodiversity 2011-2020, the post-2020

UNEP-WWF Report Highlights the Need for Human-Wildlife Coexistence

Recently, the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) released a report, titled ‘A Future For All: The Need For Human-Wildlife Coexistence’ which delves deep into the various aspects of the conflict between people and animals. Human-Wildlife Conflict Human-wildlife conflict (HWC) refers to the struggles that arise

International Tiger Day

On 29th July, 2021, International Tiger Day was celebrated worldwide. The day is celebrated every year as a way to raise awareness about the magnificent endangered big cat. The theme for International Tiger Day 2021 is “Their survival is in our hands.” Background The day marks the anniversary of the agreement

Microplastic Pollution in the Ganga

Recently, Delhi-based NGO Toxics Link released a study titled, ‘Quantitative analysis of Microplastics along River Ganga’ according to which the river is heavily polluted with microplastics. Microplastics Microplastics are synthetic solid particles ranging from 1 micrometre (μm) to 5 millimetre (mm). They are insoluble in water. Microplastics are a major source of

‘Renewables Integration in India 2021’

On 22nd July, 2021, a report on ‘Renewables Integration in India 2021’ was jointly launched by NITI Aayog& International Energy Agency (IEA). The report highlights specific energy transition challenges faced by the renewables-rich States of India. It uses IEA modelling results to show the effects of different flexibility options on

NTPC REL’s New Green Initiatives

Recently, NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd (NTPC REL) - a 100 per cent subsidiary of NTPC – got approval to set up the country’s first Green Hydrogen Mobility Project in Ladakh and establish India’s largest solar park at Rann of Kutch in Khavada, Gujarat. The Projects: Key Points The solar park will have

India to Commission 35 New Seismological Observatories

On 23rd July, 2021, the Ministry of Earth Sciences informed that the National Center for Seismology (NCS) will commission 35 new stations by December, taking the strength of seismological network to 150. The first seismological observatory of the country was established at Alipore (Calcutta) on 1st December, 1898 after the

Odisha Plans DNA Profiling of Leopards

On 29th July, 2021, the Odisha Wildlife Organisation under the state’s Forest, Environment and Climate Change Department announced that it will do DNA profiling of the leopards in the state. The deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) profiling will be done in collaboration with the Centre for Wildlife Health (CWH) of the Odisha

‘Centre of Excellence’ to be Set up in Arunachal Pradesh

Recently, the Ministry of Science & Technology announced that it will set up a first-of-its-kind ‘Centre of Excellence’ at Kimin, in Papum Pare district of Arunachal Pradesh. The project for establishing ‘Centre for Bio-Resources and Sustainable Development as a Centre of Excellence’ has been sanctioned by the Department of Biotechnology.

National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC)

To be set up soon in Patna for the conservation of the Gangetic river dolphin (Platanista gangetica ssp. gangetica). The centre will conduct in-depth research on dolphins including its changing behaviour, survival skills, food habits, cause of death, etc.It is a Schedule I animal under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972

Bal Gangadhar Tilak: Father of Indian Renaissance

On 23rd July, 2021, India paid tribute to the freedom fighter and educationist Bal Gangadhar Tilak on his birth anniversary. About Tilak He was born as Keshav Gangadhar Tilak on 23 July 1856 in a Marathi Hindu Chitpavan Brahmin family in Ratnagiri (Maharashtra). He obtained his Bachelor of Arts degree in Mathematics from

Chandra Shekhar Azad

On 23rd July, 2021, India paid tribute to the freedom fighter Chandra Shekhar Azad on his birth anniversary. About Chandra Shekhar Azad He was born on 23rd July 1906 in Alirajpur district of Madhya Pradesh. Azad was only 15 years old when he was arrested for the first time for joining Gandhi's Non-Cooperation

New Indian Sites in UNESCO World Heritage List

Two Indian sites - Ramappa Temple (Telangana) and Dholavira (Gujarat) were included in UNESCO World Heritage list during the 44th session of the World Heritage Committee, held at Fuzhou city (16-31 July, 2021) in China. Now, after the addition of these two sites, India has a total of 40 UNESCO World

Adrash Smarak Scheme

On 20th July, 2021, three monuments of Andhra Pradesh namely - Monuments at Nagarjunakonda (Guntur District), Budhhist Remains at Salihundam (Srikakulam District), and Veerabhadra Temple at Lepakshi (Anantapuram District) have been identified as Adarsh Smarak for providing additional facilities. About Adrash Smarak Scheme It was launched in December 2014 for providing improved

Historic Urban Landscape Project

The The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has selected Gwalior and Orchha cities of Madhya Pradesh under its “Historic Urban Landscape Project”. The project was started for the inclusive and well-planned development of fast-growing historical cities while preserving the culture and heritage. Varanasi and Ajmer are the other two

Hero Stone

Recently, a Pallava era hero stone traced to the 7th century was discovered by a group of archaeology enthusiasts in Kookudapatty village near Harur in Tamil Nadu. It is the third in the line of hero stones discovered in the same location and bearing the name of Eachuvara Varaman, a Pallava

Shumang Leela Theatre Form

The Manipur government has plans to use the popular ‘Shumang Leela’ form of theatre to reach out to people and spread awareness against Covid-19. Plans are underway to stage a play titled ‘Keidoubagi Kidoino’ (There is no need to fear). About Shumang Leela Form Also called ‘Shumang Kumhei’, it is a traditional form

Palaeolithic Cave Paintings found in Aravalli

Archaeologists have discovered cave paintings in Haryana that they believe belong to the Upper Palaeolithic age, which could potentially make them one of the oldest cave arts in the country.The caves are in the Aravalli mountain ranges, just outside the national capital, near the region’s only surviving patch of primary

Indian Institute of Heritage

The Union Government has decided to set up the ‘Indian Institute of Heritage’ at Noida, Gautam Buddha Nagar.The Institute is being set up as Deemed to be University by integrating Institute of Archaeology (Pt. Deendayal Upadhyaya Institute of Archaeology), School of Archival Studies under National Archives of India, New Delhi,

Liverpool stripped of ‘World Heritage’ Status

On 21st July, 2021, the English city of Liverpool was removed from UNESCO's list of world heritage sites because new buildings undermined the attractiveness of its Victorian docks, making it only the third site to be removed from the prestigious list.Liverpool was named a World Heritage Site by the United

Draft Trafficking in Persons (Prevention, Care and Rehabilitation) Bill 2021

On 4th July, 2021, the Ministry of Women and Child Development invited suggestions from all the stakeholders on the draft ‘Trafficking in Persons (Prevention, Care and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2021’. The objective is to prevent and counter trafficking in persons, especially women and children. A previous draft of the bill (The Trafficking of

Constitutional Validity of Restitution of Conjugal Rights

On 8th July, 2021, the Supreme Court granted two weeks' time to Centre to file a counter-affidavit on a plea challenging the provisions dealing with restitution of conjugal rights. The PIL filed by 2 law students of Gujarat National Law University, Gandhinagar, challenged the validity of Section 9 of the Hindu

National Ayush Mission

On 14th July, 2021, the government decided to continue the National Ayush Mission (NAM) as a centrally sponsored scheme till 2026, in order to reduce the burden on the country’s healthcare infrastructure. Expected Outcomes Better access to AYUSH healthcare services through increased healthcare facilities offering AYUSH services and better availability of medicines

Dying Declaration

On 16th July, 2021, a special CBI court convicted two policemen and awarded them life sentences for the custodial death of a murder accused, who was burnt alive inside a police station in Haryana. The judgment relied heavily on the ‘dying declaration’ made by the victim prior to his death. About Dying

NIPUN Bharat Programme

On 5th July 2021, the Ministry of Education launched National Initiative for Proficiency in Reading with Understanding and Numeracy (NIPUN Bharat). Need Lack of Foundational Learning: Foundational learning has been a drawback in Indian schools. As per Annual Status of Education Report (Aser) findings, for successive years bulk of Indian students pursuing

New Population Policy of Uttar Pradesh

On 11th July, 2021, Uttar Pradesh government released the state’s new population policy, which aims to reduce its growth rate to 2.1 per cent over the next 10 years. The new policy is being prepared after studying several reports, including the National Family Health Survey (NFHS)-04. The unveiling of the policy

Extension to OBC Sub-Categorisation Commission

On 14th July, 2021, the Union Cabinet chaired approved the Eleventh Extension of the term of the Rohini Commission to examine the issue of Sub-categorization within Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in the Central List by 6 months beyond 31st July 2021 and upto 31st January 2022. Reasons for Extension The nationwide lockdown

Kapu Community to get Reservation

On 14th July, 2021, the Andhra Pradesh government announced 10% reservation for the Kapu community and other Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) for appointments in the initial posts and services in State government. These reservations are given in accordance with the Constitution (103rd Amendment) Act, 2019. This reservation will be horizontal. Background Kapus are primarily

India Inequality Report

On 21st July, 2021, Oxfam released a report titled “Inequality Report 2021: India’s Unequal Healthcare Story”. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the health outcomes across different socioeconomic groups to gauge the level of health inequality that persists in the country. The findings are primarily based on secondary analysis from rounds 3

World Population Day 2021

It is observed annually on July 11 every year to highlight the problems of overpopulation and raises awareness about the effects of overpopulation on the environment and development. Theme The theme of World Population Day 2021 is 'the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on fertility'. It is organised by the Population

Garib Nawaz Employment Scheme

Recently, a total number of 371 training centers under Gharib Nawaz Employment Scheme were opened across the country. About the Scheme Launched in 2017, the scheme is being implemented by the Maulana Azad Education Foundation, an autonomous body under the aegis of Ministry of Minority Affairs. It aims to provide short term job

Gaon Bura

The Assam Cabinet announced that Gaon Buras, village-level functionaries of the district administration, will hereafter be called ‘Gaon Pradhans’.The institution of Gaon Bura in Assam dates back to the colonial era, when the British appointed the oldest person in the village as the head. The responsibilities initially included recording births,

e-RUPI: A Digital Payment Solution

e-RUPI, a person and purpose specific digital payment solution was launched on 2nd August 2021. It has been developed by National Payments Corporation of India on its UPI platform, in collaboration with the Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare and National Health Authority. Features e-RUPI is a cashless and

DBT approves Funding for MRNA-based COVID-19 Vaccine - HGCO19 for Clinical Trials

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science & Technology has approved additional funding towards clinical studies of India's 'first of its kind' mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine - HGCO19, developed by Pune-based biotechnology company Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd. This funding has been awarded under the 'Mission COVID Suraksha- The Indian COVID-19 Vaccine Development

KASEZ: India’s First Green Industrial City”

Kandla Special Economic Zone (KASEZ), the oldest export zone in the country, has become the “first green industrial city” in India to receive a platinum rating under IGBC Green Cities Rating for existing cities in the industrial cities category. Initiatives that helped Kasez achieve this Status Green Cover: Compared to the 25,000

Project 75 (I): RFP issued for Six Conventional Submarines

On July 20, 2021, the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has issued Request of Proposal (RFP) for the first acquisition programme under the Strategic Partnership Model for construction of six AIP fitted Conventional Submarines named Project 75(India) [P-75(I)] for the Indian Navy, on July 20, 2021. Strategic Partners: The RFP was issued

Boundary Dispute: Fault Lines from History

Recently, violent clashes were witnessed in the border areas of Assam and Mizoram. This event is a reason of more than a century old boundary dispute in this area. The boundary between the two states, which runs 165 km today, has a history dating back to the time when Mizoram was

Andhra Pradesh to give 10% Reservation for EWS

The Andhra Pradesh government has announced 10% reservation for the Kapu community and other Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) for appointments in the initial posts and services in the State government in accordance with the Constitution (103rd Amendment) Act, 2019. Finer Points The latest order practically annuls two laws enacted by the previous

J&K to Issue Domicile Certificate to Spouse of Native Woman

The Jammu and Kashmir administration has announced to issue a domicile certificate to the husband of a native woman. Finer Points Earlier, the J&K women who were married outside the Union Territory, made their spouse ineligible for domicile certificate. The Union cabinet in 2020 approved for the Jammu & Kashmir (Adaptation of State

‘Unnati’ Scheme: No more dependency on MGNREGS

The Kerala Govt. has launched ‘Unnati’ scheme to reduce workers’ dependency on MGNREGS and ensure jobs with better wages. Finer Points of the Scheme The ‘Unnati’ project will provide skill training to existing workers of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). Under the project, one adult member of a household

Initiative towardsTransgenders to pursue Higher Education

The Kerala government has removed the upper age limit for transgender students seeking admission to various courses in the State universities and its affiliated arts and science colleges. Earlier, a survey by the Department of Social Justice had found that the transgender students have to discontinue their studies often due to

‘Devaranya’: An Ayush-based Economic Upgradation Scheme

The Govt. of Madhya Pradesh has prepared the Ayush-based economic upgradation scheme – DevaranyaYojana with the twin objectives of improving people’s health and livelihood of tribals.Under the scheme, more AYUSH-based activities will be taken up to increase employment and livelihood opportunities in tribal dominated areas. Under this, the cultivation of

Maharashtra to issue Certificates using Blockchain Technology

Maharashtra State Board of Skill Development has decided to issue block chain based certificates to students.Around 10 lakh digital certificates will be issued to diploma holders of eight educational years. Singapore, Malta and Bahrain are the only countries using this technology. According to technology provider Legit Doc’s, each student will

TN to create Digital Databank of Migrants

Tamil Nadu will soon create a digital databank of migrant workers employed in industries, particularly the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises and hospitality sectors, across the State. The Govt. of Tamil Nadu wants to have a clear record on how many returned to work after covid migration, their vaccination status and

‘Dalit Bandhu’ – A Free DBT Scheme

Telangana government is readying to spend Rs 80,000 crore to Rs 1 lakh crore for Dalit Bandhu, touted as the country’s biggest direct benefit transfer scheme, to empower Dalits across the state.Dalit Bandhu is the latest flagship programme of the Telangana government. It is envisioned as a welfare scheme for

‘PaniMaah’observation in Ladakh

Under JalJeevan Mission (JJM), PaniMaah (Water Month) is being observed by the UT of Ladakh in two phases. PaniMaah is a comprehensive 1-month campaign which was launched on 25th July in UT Ladakh which will run at the block and panchayat level in 2- phases, with the 1st phase from 1st