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1. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for introduction of the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016 to banning commercial surrogacy in country. The Bill will ensure effective regulation of surrogacy, prohibit commercial surrogacy and allow ethical surrogacy to the needy infertile couples. Salient Features of Bill Regulate practices in ethical surrogacy in the country and prohibits commercial surrogacy including sale and purchase of human embryo and gametes. Calls for establishment National Surrogacy Board (NSB) at the central level and State Surrogacy Boards (SSB) and Appropriate Authorities in States/Union Territories. Allows ethical surrogacy for all infertile Indian married couple in the country. Protects rights of surrogate mother and children born out of surrogacy. The law will apply to whole of India, except the state of Jammu and Kashmir. All Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) clinics will be registered. Major benefits Regulates the surrogacy services in the country. Ban unethical commercial surrogacy and also sale and purchase of human embryo and gametes. Allows ethical surrogacy to needy infertile couples on fulfilment of certain conditions. Control unethical practices in surrogacy, prevent commercialization of surrogacy. Prohibit potential exploitation of surrogate mothers and children born through surrogacy. Background India has emerged as a surrogacy hub for couples from different countries. However there have been reported incidents concerning unethical practices of surrogacy across country. Incidents such as exploitation of surrogate mothers, abandonment of children born out of surrogacy and rackets of intermediaries importing human gametes and embryos were also reported. The 228th report of the Law Commission of India (LCI) also had recommended for banning commercial surrogacy by enacting a suitable legislation. However, it had allowed ethical altruistic surrogacy to the needy Indian citizens.

2. The Union Cabinet approved a revised Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) and the Prevention of Fiscal Evasion with respect to Taxes on Income between India and Cyprus. The revised DTAA provides for source-based taxation of capital gains on transfer of shares instead of one based on residence. Thus, it is considered as a major step in the fight against tax evasion, round tripping and base erosion/profit shifting. It also allows India to have the right to tax capital gains arising in India. It further removes distortion caused by the provisions in the earlier treaty for residence-based taxation for the sake of avoiding tax. Background India and Cyprus had signed DTAA in 1994. Cyprus is a major source of foreign funds flows in India. From April 2000 till March 2016, India received foreign direct investment (FDI) to the tune of Rs 42,680.76 crore from Cyprus. Cyprus is considered a major haven for money laundering, round-tripping, and profit-shifting. The revised DTAA assumes significance coming soon after the signing of the revised pact with Mauritius. What is Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)? A DTAA is a bilateral economic agreement between two nations that aims to avoid or eliminate double taxation of the same income in two countries. It is also referred to as a Tax Treaty.

3. Wrestler Sakshi Malik was named as Haryana’s brand ambassador for Beti Bachao, Beti Padao (save daughter, educate daughter) campaign in Haryana. Sakshi Malik had won bronze medal in wrestling at 2016 Rio Olympics in the 58 kg category. She had created history by becoming first women from India to win Olympics medal in wrestling. Announcement in this regard was made by Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar after awarding Malik with 2.5 crore rupees and Commendation Certificate. About Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao (BBBP) campaign BBBP campaign aims to spread awareness about the declining trend of Child Sex Ratio in the country. It aims to generate awareness and improve the efficiency of welfare services meant for women. Its main objective is to prevent gender biased sex selective elimination by strict enforcement of laws with stringent punishment to violators. The Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD), is the nodal agency for the implementation of the scheme.

4. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Myanmar in the field of Traditional Systems of Medicine. Decision in this regard was taken by the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Key Facts The MoU will provide structured frame work for promotion of AYUSH/Traditional Systems of Medicine in Myanmar. It will boost the importance of AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy) systems of medicine and conservation, production and standardisation.

5. The two-day meeting of Ministers of Disaster Management (MDM) of BRICS countries concluded in Udaipur, Rajasthan with the adoption of the Udaipur Declaration. This was the second meeting and in the follow up of the first meeting of the BRICS MDM convened by the Russia in St. Petersburg in April, 2016. Udaipur Declaration BRICS nations to set up a dedicated Joint Task Force for Disaster Risk Management for regular dialogue, exchange, mutual support and collaboration among them. The meeting was a new milestone in collaboration and cooperation among BRICS countries in the field of disaster management. The roadmap for implementation of the three-year Joint Action Plan for BRICS emergency services (2016-18) was also finalised. Key Highlights of 2nd BRICS MDM meeting Objective: (i) Share experiences on flood-risk management, current systems in each country for forecasting extreme weather events. (ii) Identify opportunities for collaboration between institutions of respective BRICS countries in the area of flood risk management and extreme weather-related events. It focused on two themes: (i) ‘Flood Risk Management‘ and (ii) ‘Forecasting of Extreme Weather Events in the context of Changing Climate‘. Three technical sessions were held on areas of disaster risk management challenges, forecasting and early warning on flood and disaster risk in a changing climate.

5. The Union Government has launched Accessible E-Library ‘Sugamya Pustakalaya’ for Divyang under Prime Minister’s Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan. It was jointly launched by Union Ministers Ravi Shankar Prasad, Prakash Javadekar and Thawar Chand Gehlot at a fucntion in New Delhi. What is Sugamya Pustakalaya? Sugamya Pustakalaya is an online library for Divyang and houses publications across diverse subjects and languages and multiple accessible formats. The online library has been created in collaboration with National Institute of Visually Handicapped (NIVH), member organisations of Daisy Forum of India and Bookshare and is powered by TCS Access. In this online library books will available in accessible formats for people with visual impairment and other print disabilities. It will house over 2 lakhs books in diverse languages. It will also integrate libraries across India and the Globe, including the largest international library Bookshare. National Institute of Visually Handicapped (NIVH): It is a premier Institute in the field of visual disability working under the administrative control of the Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It objective is to promote rights and dignity of persons with visual impairments.

6. President Pranab Mukherjee launched Akashvani Maitree (Moitree) Channel and its multimedia website in Bengali language for listeners in West Bengal, Bangladesh and the adjoining areas. Akashvani Moitree Channel is an initiative of Kolkata Akashvani Kendra. It will provide a platform for blending content both from India and Bangladesh and preserving Bengali culture. Key Facts The channel will be broadcasted from a state-of-the-art brand new high power 1000Kw DRM (Digital Radio Mondiale) transmitter in Chinsurah (West Bengal). It has capacity to reach the entire length and breadth of Bangladesh through medium wave and will be also available globally on its website and mobile app for Bengali Diaspora. The concept of the Akashvani Moitree Channel emanates from the decision taken during the visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Bangladesh. Both sides had agreed to share content among their broadcasting organisations in order to broadcast a mix of news and cultural programming. What is Akashvani Maitree? The All India Radio (AIR) during the Bangladesh Liberation Movement in 1971 had launched Akashvani Maitree, a Bangla radio service. The channel had played a historic role during the Bangladesh liberation movement. However, it was discontinued in 2010. Why it is launched again? The relaunch of Akashvani Maitree is being looked as an outreach to strengthen India’s shaky relations with Bangladesh as a part of its cultural diplomacy. The service is being re-launched twin objectives: (i) To attract Bengali-speaking listeners from both countries. (ii) To counter the presence of CRI (Chinese Radio International) with its strong presence in the region. The channel will also play a significant role in promoting and preserving the composite Bengali cultural heritage irrespective of geographical location.

7. National Career Service (NCS) signed a Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) with strategic partners for enhancing quality and reach of employment services through the NCS network. These MoUs were signed with job portals companies Indeed, First Job, Freshersworld, Merajob and HT Shine etc. to enhance quality and reach of its employment generation services. Earlier, the NSC had partnered with leading organisations like Uber, Monster.com, Saral Rozgar, Quikrjobs, Indian Staffing Federation etc for the same purpose. What is National Career Service (NCS)? NCS project is being implemented by the Union Ministry of Labour and Employment. It was launched in 2015. It is an ICT based portal developed to provide a wide variety of employment related services to job seekers and youth through technology. NCS portal facilitates registration of job seekers, job providers, skill providers, career counsellors, etc. free of cost. Since its launch, the NCS has grown significantly with over 3.6 crore job seekers, 9 lakh employers. It had mobilised over 1 lakh jobs in the last few months.

8. India’s premier container port, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) in Navi Mumbai has signed 400 Million US Dollar agreement with State Bank of India (SBI) and Development Bank of Singapore (DBS) for External Commercial Borrowing (ECB). The agreement was signed by JNPT officials in the presence of the Union Minister for Shipping, Road Transport & Highways Nitin Gadkari in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Key Facts With this ECB Agreement, JNPT becomes the first major port in the country to take loans in dollars to improve the infrastructure. The ECB of 400 Million dollars will be primarily utilised for expansion of JNPT’s existing road network connecting to its port project. It will help JNPT to double its existing capacity. JNPT was able to take loans in dollars as it has US dollar denominated foreign currency earnings which can be leveraged for a low cost foreign currency borrowing. Why Ports are opting for low cost foreign currency borrowing? Port projects, including connectivity infrastructure projects are critical to developing cargo handling capacity of the country. With Central Government’s thrust on port led development under the Sagarmala programme, improving viability of port projects is critical. One of the primary factors that impacts viability of port projects is the interest rate on borrowings to fund projects. While Ports have surplus funds, they also need to borrow to achieve a quantum jump in the investment. Thus, ECBs is an innovative means of raising low-cost particularly when the port had revenues in foreign exchange, which provided a natural hedge to the ports. This would substantially help to eliminate the requirement of hedging the forex risk and would reduce the cost of borrowing. The step is also considered as another milestone in infusing dynamism into the functioning of the ports, both in their operations and financing.

9. Maharashtra Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Union Civil Aviation Ministry and Airports Authority of India (AAI) to develop 10 airports as part of the Centre’s Regional Connectivity Scheme. The MoU was signed in the presence of Union Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis. With this Maharashtra became first state in the country to formally to provide the concessions required from the State Governments in the Regional Connectivity Scheme. Key Facts These 10 airports include Shirdi, Gondia, Amravati, Jalgaon, Nashik, Solapur, Nanded, Kolhapur, Ratnagiri and Sindhudurg. The MoU aims to facilitate regional air connectivity by making air travel affordable and move aviation sector in Maharashtra to next level. As per the MoU, Central Government will provide funds and also assist the Maharashtra Government in developing essential infrastructure for developing these airports. State government will provide essential land free of cost and will also reduce the Local Body Tax (LBT) on air fuel from the existing 10% to 1% for a period of 10 years. It will also provide electricity, water and necessary facilities at concessional rates. Airports will also be provided with roads, rail and waterway connectivity. About Regional Connectivity Scheme The provision of Regional Connectivity Scheme (RCS) has been mentioned in the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP) 2015. Objective: To make flying affordable for the masses, to promote tourism, increase employment and promote balanced regional growth. It also aims to boost civil aviation sector by reviving of un-served or under-served airstrips/airports. Only 75 out of 476 airstrips have scheduled operations. Implementing agency: Airport Authority of India. RCS route: It will include (i) un-served airports i.e. airports where there is no scheduled commercial flight (ii) under-served airports i.e. airports which have 7 or less scheduled commercial flights per week. These routes will cover a length between 200 to 800 km. But this criteria will not apply to hilly areas, islands, North-east region and for helicopter operations. Subsidy: Central Government will subsidise 80% of the cost for revival of airports, while the states will meet the rest under the viability gap fund (VGF). In the case of the Northeastern states, the central subsidy will be 90%. The RCS also stipulates that the air tickets will be capped at Rs 2,500 under a one-hour flight and the VGF will take care of the rest of the operational cost. Besides, a Regional Connectivity Fund (RCF) will be created to subsidise the operation of the RCS.

10. Maharashtra and Telangana have signed agreement for three irrigation projects to be constructed on Godavari, Pranahita and Painganga rivers. These agreements were signed in presence of Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Key Facts Under the agreement, the two States would take up Tummidi Hatti, Medigadda and Chanaka-Korata irrigation projects on Godavari River and its tributaries. Medigadda barrage: Telangana will build a barrage of 100 metre height and 16 TMC storage capacity at Medigadda. The barrage will help irrigate 18.19 lakh acres of land in six districts. Tummadihatti barrage: It will be built on Pranahita River with a height of 148 metres and 1.8 TMC storage capacity. This will help in irrigation of two lakh acres of land in Adilabad district bordering Maharashtra. Chanaka-Korata barrage: It will be built on Penganga River. It will have 213 metre height and 0.85 TMC storage capacity. It will irrigate land in Maharashtra and Adilabad district of Telangana.

11. Andhra Pradesh became the first state in the country to launch DNA Index System (DIS) for DNA (Deoxyribonucleac acid) profiling of criminals. The system uses the latest DNA technology tool (also known as RapidHIT DNA System) developed by IntegenX of United States. Key Facts The DNA Index System (DIS) allows generation of DNA profiles from live samples like buccal swabs, saliva and blood stains etc. It creates DNA profiles within 90 to 120 minutes compared to currently available technologies which take at least two days or more. DIS has vast potential to bring down crimes as it can create a huge database of DNA profiles of offenders. It could also help the suspects prove their innocence. With DNA in the database, repeat offenders will be easily and quickly caught which will further help to bring down crime rate. The system can help resolve missing persons’ cases with on the spot DNA testing and also reduce backlogs of trying of criminal cases. What is DNA? DNA (Deoxyribonucleac acid) is the genetic material typically found in tissue of all living cells of humans as well as animals and plants. It invariably contains hereditary data passed on from parent to children which is unique to each person (except in the case of identical twins). This makes DNA profiling a reliable and unique personal identification tool. What is DNA profiling technology? DNA fingerprinting or DNA profiling is method of isolating and identifying variable elements within the base-pair sequence of DNA. DNA fingerprinting technology is utilised by police all over the world for fool-proof identification of criminals who leave their traces at crime scene while committing crime. The technology plays a crucial role in solving crimes as it has potential to link a series of crimes by placing the suspects by linking them with the crime scene.

12. The International Kabaddi Federation (IKF) has announced that 2016 Kabaddi World Cup will be hosted in Ahmedabad, Gujarat between October 7 and 22, 2016. The event will see participation of 12 Kabaddi teams from around the world representing all the five geographies of the Olympic Games. These 12 teams are India, Canada, United States, United Kingdom, Iran, Australia, Poland, Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Korea, Japan and Kenya. Star Sports will be the official broadcaster of the 2016 Kabaddi World Cup. The matches will be aired exclusively on the Star Sports network and HotStar. About Kabaddi Kabaddi is a contact sport that had originated in ancient India. It is the national game of Bangladesh and is known as hadudu. Kabaddi is an umbrella term which encompasses various forms of the game including International rules Kabaddi. In India, it is the state game of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Punjab. It also encompasses similar sports known by their regional names in Indian states such as sadugudu in Tamil Nadu, chedugudu in Andhra Pradesh and hututu in Maharashtra.

13. The 31st Summer Olympics (or 2016 Rio Olympics) hosted by Brazilian City, Rio de Janeiro ended after 16 days of sporting spectacle. The games had seen participations of nearly 11,000 participants from 205 countries, including a first-ever refugee team featuring in 306 events of 42 sporting disciplines. Key Facts Medals Tally: United States ended the Games at the top of the medals tally. They finished with 46 Gold, 37 Silver and 38 Bronze. Great Britain finished on second spot with 27 Gold, 23 Silver and 17 bronze. China finished on third position with a tally of 26 Gold, 18 Silver and 26 Bronze. India finished at joint 67th position in the medals tally with two medals. They were won by Sakshi Malik (Bronze medal in 58 kg weight class of Wrestling) and PV Sindhu (Silver medal in Badminton).

14. Maharashtra became the first state in the country to draft its own internal security legislation The Maharashtra Protection of Internal Security Act (MPISA), 2016. The bill has been kept public responses for suggestions and objections. Later it will be presented to the legislature for approval. Key Features of Bill It gives special emphasis on maintaining law and order and combating terrorism, insurgency, caste-related violence and communalism in the state. Definition of internal security: The situation posing threat to state within its borders, either caused or prompted, provoked or proxied by a hostile foreign power. Special Security Zones (SSZ): Proposes setting up of SSZ where movement of arms, explosives and inflow of unaccounted funds will be prohibited. SSZs will have separate police infrastructure. They will also have a command and control system, and separate Standard Operating Procedure (SoP) to be followed by SSZ police. Critical Infrastructure Sectors (CIS): It includes nuclear reactors, dams, major projects, coastal areas under its ambit. Powers of police chief: He can ban or regulate the production, storage, possession, sale, or entry of (i) any devices or equipment (ii) poisonous chemical, biological or radioactive substances (iii) electronic content of potentially explosive nature (iv) any inflow of funds. Punishment: Jail term of up to three years and fine for those threatening the State’s security.

15. Hindi scholar and writer Sunita Jain was conferred with the prestigious 25th Vyas Samman 2015. She was presented with the award by West Bengal Governor K N Tripathi. She was bestowed with this prestigious literary award for her poetry collection Kshama (published in 2008). Through her poetry collection, she portrays the fine emotions between poet Tulsidas and his wife Ratnavalli. Using very fine language in the poetry, she has managed to aptly convey the sentiment of forgiveness between Tulsidas and his wife. About Sunita Jain She is scholar, novelist, short-story writer and poet of English and Hindi literature. She had started her writing career at the age of 22. So far she has over 100 books to her credit apart from short-stories, novels and poems in Hindi and English. She also has translated many Jain writings into English. She had worked as the professor and the Head of the department of Humanities and Social Sciences at the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi. Awards and Honours: The Vreeland Award (1969) and Marie Sandoz Prairie Schooner Fiction Award (1970 and 1971) and Padma Shri (2004). About Vyas Samman award The Vyas Samman award award was instituted by the K.K. Birla Foundation in 1991. It is awarded annually to outstanding literary work in Hindi authored and published in past 10 years by an Indian citizen The award carries monetary award of 2.5 lakh rupees, a citation and a plaque.

16. VP Singh Badnore (69) has sworn in as the new Governor Punjab and also as Administrator of Chandigarh. He was administered the oath of office by Punjab and Haryana High Court Chief Justice SJ Vazifdar at oath taking ceremony held in Punjab Raj Bhawan Chandigarh. He succeeds Kaptan Singh Solanki, who is the Governor of Haryana and was holding additional charge of Punjab Governor and Administrator of Chandigarh since January 2015.

17. The Indian-origin former Singapore President S.R. Nathan passed away days after suffering a stroke. He was 92. He was the sixth and longest-serving President of Singapore. He was closely associated with the country’s founding leader Lee Kuan Yew.

18. The Union Government bestows National Sports Awards every year to recognize and reward excellence in sports in India. These awards include Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, Dronacharya Award, Arjuna Award, Dhyan Chand Award, Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy and Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puruskar . 2016 Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award It is India’s highest sporting award given for the spectacular and most outstanding performance in the field of sports by a sportsperson over a period of four years. Recipients are: PV Sindhu (Badminton), Sakshi Malik (Wrestling), Dipa Karmakar (Gymnastics) and Jitu Rai (Shooting). 2016 Dronacharya Award It bestowed upon coaches for producing medal winners at prestigious international sports events. Recipients are: Nagapuri Ramesh (Athletics),Sagar Mal Dhayal (Boxing), Raj Kumar Sharma (Cricket),Bishweshwar Nandi (Gymnastics), S. Pradeep Kumar (Swimming) and Mahabir Singh (Wrestling). 2016 Arjuna Award It is India’s second highest sporting award bestowed upon sportsperson for consistently outstanding performance for four years. Recipients are: Rajat Chauhan (Archery), Lalita Babar (Athletics),Sourav Kothari (Billiards & Snooker), Shiva Thapa (Boxing),Ajinkya Rahane (Cricket), Subrata Paul (Football), Rani (Hockey),Raghunath V.R. (Hockey), Gurpreet Singh (Shooting), Apurvi Chandela (Shooting), Soumyajit Ghosh (Table Tennis),Vinesh (Wrestling), Amit Kumar (Wrestling), Sandeep Singh Mann (Para-Athletics) and Virender Singh (Wrestling). 2016 Dhyan Chand Award It is bestowed upon sportspersons for life time contribution to sports development. Recipients are: Satti Geetha (Athletics), Sylvanus Dung Dung (Hockey) and Rajendra Pralhad Shelke (Rowing). 2015-16 Maulana Abul Kalam Azad (MAKA) Trophy It is bestowed upon overall top performing university in inter-university tournaments. Recipient: Punjabi University, Patiala.

19. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani jointly tele-inaugurated the restored Stor Palace in Kabul. The Stor Palace is located in the Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs Campus in Kabul. The newly renovated and restored building will house the Afghanistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Besides, it will also serve as the venue for hosting official domestic and international events by the Afghan government. Background A tripartite agreement for restoring Stor Palace was signed in 2011 during the visit of then Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Afghanistan. The agreement was signed between Aga Khan Development Network, Government of Afghanistan and Government of India. India’s Contribution in Afghanistan’s development India has played a significant role in the reconstruction and rehabilitation process in Afghanistan in the past few years. Earlier in June 2016, both countries had inaugurated the $300 million India and Afghanistan Friendship Dam in Herat Province. Besides, India also had gifted Afghanistan its new parliament building in December 2015. So far India has poured more than $2 billion dollars into Afghanistan reconstruction projects and humanitarian aid as part of its goodwill diplomacy making it one of the largest donors to the war-torn country.

20. For the first time, researchers have decoded and predicted the brain activity patterns of word meanings within sentences. The brain activity patterns were predicted using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to measure human brain activation. With this, researcher can now predict 70% brain activity patterns. This study may help treat persons with brain injury and stroke patients to communicate better. It also makes key advances towards understanding how information is represented throughout the brain. What is functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)? fMRI is a functional neuroimaging procedure using MRI technology. It measures brain activity by detecting changes associated with blood flow. This technique relies on the fact that neuronal activation and cerebral blood flow are coupled together. When an area of the brain is in use, blood flow to that region also increases. The primary form of fMRI uses blood-oxygen-level dependent (BOLD) contrast. This is a type of specialized brain and body scan used to map neural activity in the brain or spinal cord of humans or other animals. It is mapped by imaging the change in hemodynamic response (blood flow) related to energy use by brain cells.

21. BRICS Women Parliamentarians forum has unanimously passed the Jaipur Declaration on the concluding day of the Forum’s meeting held in Jaipur. The 19-point declaration was adopted at the two-day meeting of BRICS Women Parliamentarians forum held in Jaipur, Rajasthan. The meeting was attended by heads and members of delegation from Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Key highlights of Jaipur Declaration Strengthen strategic partnership between members on all three dimensions of sustainable development viz., economic growth, social inclusion and environmental protection. Parliamentarians expressed concern over the climate change on ecological systems, biodiversity and as well as food security (i.e. food production). Members will focus to work out integrated solutions to preserve and protect ecological systems and forests. It also called upon international financial institutions (FIs) to extend support to developing and least developed countries. The FIs should help developing and least developed countries gain easier access to new and affordable technologies as envisaged under UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCC) and the Paris Agreement. Emphasized the need to inform, communicate and educate citizens about developmental schemes. Emphasized on plans for incorporating gender concerns and greater involvement of women parliamentarians in integrating citizens in the development process.

22. Scientists for the first time have developed LASER (light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation) from fluorescent jellyfish proteins that were grown in bacteria. The first of its kind represents a major advance breakthrough in so-called polariton lasers operating at room temperature. What is Laser? A laser is a device that emits light through a process of optical amplification based on the stimulated emission of electromagnetic radiation. Major difference between laser and other sources of light is that, laser emits light coherently. What is Polariton laser? Polariton laser works by passing photons back and forth between excited molecules. Unlike conventional lasers, the photons in Polariton laser are released and reabsorbed within the device itself before zooming out as laser light. Key Facts To develop the fluorescent Polariton laser, scientists had engineered barrel-shaped fluorescent proteins from jellyfish DNA. They had filled optical microcavities (between two mirrors) with this protein before subjecting them to optical pumping. Nanosecond flashes of blue light from an external laser were used to bring the system up to the required energy to create laser light. After the threshold was reached for polariton lasing, scientists pumped more energy into the device setup that resulted in conventional lasing. Significance: These lasers have the potential to be far more efficient and compact than conventional ones. It could open up research avenues in quantum physics and optical computing. Consumes less energy compared to conventional lasers. It can be used for the purpose more efficient optical communications or in medical lasers that are less destructive to living tissue.

23. Dr. Najma Heptulla was sworn-in as the 18th Governor of Manipur. She replaced Shanmuganathan who was holding the dual charge of Governor of Meghalaya and Manipur. She was administered oath of office by Acting Chief Justice of Manipur High Court Rakesh Ranjan Prasad as per the provisions of Article 159 of Constitution of India.

24. Prominent film actor Kamal Haasan (61) has been selected by France for its prestigious Chevalier de L’Ordre Arts et Lettres. It is also known as Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters. He has been chosen for this prestigious award recognition of his high level artistic excellence and distinguished career achievements. He will be the second Tamil actor to be chosen for this award after the legendary actor Sivaji Ganesan.

25. The world’s highest and longest glass-bottomed bridge was opened to visitors in central China. The bridge connects two mountain cliffs known as the Avatar Mountains in Zhangjiajie, Hunan province. Key Facts The glass-bottomed bridge is 430 metres long and is 6 metres wide. It stands 300 metre above a canyon in the Tianmenshan National Forest Park. It has been paved with 99 panes of three-layered transparent glass. It has been designed by Israeli architect Haim Dotan. Construction of the bridge had completed in December 2015. So far it has set 10 world records for design and construction. Maximum 8,000 visitors will be allowed to cross the bridge every day.

26. President Indian Olympic Association (IOA) N. Ramachandran was awarded the Olympic Order for his outstanding services to the Olympic movement. The award was formally bestowed upon him by the President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Thomas Bach. About Narayana Ramachandran He is an Indian squash administrator. Currently he serves as current President of WSF (World Squash Federation) since 2008. Since February 2014 he is serving the president of the Indian Olympic Association (IOA). He is the brother of the former Chairman of BCCI and ICC, N Srinivasan. About Olympic Order Award Olympic Order Award is the highest award of the Olympic Movement. It is awarded in recognition of efforts worthy of merit in the cause of sport. It was established in May 1975 as a successor to the Olympic Certificate by the International Olympic Committee. The award is bestowed upon the recipient at the closing ceremony of each respective Olympic Games as per the tradition.

27. Chinese scientists have discovered a small molecule (new drug) named XMU-MP-1 that can regenerate tissue. It has potential to eliminate transplants of some organs. It was discovered by team of researchers from Xiamen University and Peking University of China. The findings were published in Science Translational Medicine. Key Facts The drug, XMU-MP-1 can promote repair and regeneration in the liver, intestines and skin. It was found that it has ability to inhibit the activity of two enzymes MST1 and MST2, the central component of this pathway which normally prevent cells from proliferating. By inhibiting the activity of MST1/2, XMU-MP-1 can promote cell growth in four different mouse models with acute injuries. For this research purpose, researchers had specifically targeted a critical signalling molecule in the Hippo pathway, which controls organ size and growth. Significance: This study paves the way for medicines that help to rebuild organs instead of relying on complicated therapeutic strategies such as regenerative cells to specific spots and delivering biomaterials in the body to repair and restore injured tissue.

28. Scientists from have discovered Gymnothorax indicus (proposed name Indian unpatterened moray), a new species of eel (a snake-like fish) in the northern Bay of Bengal region along the West Bengal coast. It was discovered after it was collected in a trawl net by fishermen in northern Bay of Bengal, about 70 km off the coast. About Gymnothorax indicus The ell species Gymnothorax indicus is slender-bodied. It was found at a depth of 35 metres in the sea. It is about one feet-long and edible. It has 194 vertebrae. Its dorsal fin has a black margin. The body of the eel is uniformly pale brown without spots or patterns. Its eye rim is pale. Significance of discovery: Scientists believe that these newly discovered eel species may contribute to food security in the future. Eaten in coastal areas Eels are found mostly at the bottom of rivers and seas. Globally, about 1,000 species of eels have been identified. In India their number is around 125. Eels are local delicacy in many countries like Japan. But consumption of eels in India is limited to coastal areas. Rich marine biodiversity in Bay of Bengal The coastal region of West Bengal adjoining areas of Bay of Bengal are the rich marine biodiversity. Over the past few years, it has yielded two new species of fish. In 2015, Gymnothorax mishrai (Bengal moray eel), a short brown unpatterned moray eel was discovered. Scientists also had discovered another new species of Haplogenys bengalensis (Indian velvetchin), an edible marine fish from the same area.

29. Myanmar has officially announced to support for China’s ambitious One Belt and One Road (OBOR) connectivity initiative along the ancient Silk Road. It was announced in the joint statement released by both countries during official state visit of Myanmar’s State Counsellor Aung San Suu Kyi to China. Key highlights of Aung San Suu Kyi’s visit to China Myanmar also Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) economic corridor meant to industrialise a stretch spanning more than 2,000-km. BCIM corridor links Kunming in China with Mandalay in Myanmar and passes through Bangladesh and ends at Kolkata in India. Myanmar also asked for China’s support to realise peace and national reconciliation through political dialogue in case of militancy. Myanmar has been a victim of militancy which for decades is fuelled by clandestine sale of drugs, jade and timber, mostly channelled through China. Myanmar also discussed on issues for China’s support for it infrastructure projects including on Myitsone dam project. Myitsone dam project is controversial China-backed project in Northeastern Myanmmer stalled since 2011 on the grounds of causing extensive ecological damage. Talks were also held for establishing an Asian super-grid with Myanmar as one of its nodes with China’s state-owned State Grid Corporation.

30. The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has voiced its concern over alleged excesses of the Indian military and the paramilitary forces in Kashmir. This issued had surfaced after former Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai had “appreciated” Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s statement on human rights situation in Pakistan’s Balochistan province. Key Facts OCI Secretary General of OIC Iyad Amin Madani had quoted that the organisation will continue to expose human rights excesses in the Kashmir Valley. It will support to Pakistan till the issue is resolved in accordance with the United Nations resolutions and wishes of the people of Kashmir. OIC’s these comments and support to Pakistan is bound to rile India as it is not for the first that the OIC has spoken about the Kashmir issue against India. What is Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)? The OIC is an international organization founded in 1969. Members: It consists of 57 member states including Iran and Pakistan. Administrative centre (headquarters): Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Objective: (i) Raise the collective voice of the Muslim world. (ii) Collectively work to safeguard and protect the interests of the Muslim world in the spirit of promoting international peace and harmony. OIC has permanent delegations to United Nations and the European Union. Issues with India: In this organisation, India is a blocked country, though it has about 12% of the world’s Muslim population. India has been blocked by Pakistan from joining the OIC over Kashmir issue. OIC regard parts of Kashmir as “occupied by India”.

31. Union Government has appointed Urjit Patel (52) as new Governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He will be 24th Governor of RBI He will have tenure of three years and shall succeed Raghuram Rajan. Prior to this appointment (elevation) he was Deputy Governor of RBI. He will be the eighth Deputy Governor to be elevated as Governor at RBI. Background The Appointment Committee of Cabinet (ACC) has appointed Urjit Patel based on the recommendation of the Financial Sector Regulatory Appointments Search Committee (FSRASC), headed by the Cabinet Secretary. The Committee undertook an extensive exercise to suggest a panel of names to the ACC. About Urjit Patel Born on October 28, 1963. He had received his doctorate in economics from Yale University in 1990) and M Phil from Oxford (1986). By profession he is an eminent economist, consultant and banker. He has two decades of rich experience across sectors including financial, energy and infrastructure sectors. He has worked with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) covering the US, India, Bahamas and Myanmar desks between 1990 and 1995. For first time, he was appointed as the Deputy Governor of RBI in January 2013 for three year term and was later reappointed on January 2016. He had headed committee to review the monetary policy framework and had proposed monetary policy committee to set interest rates (currently solely decided by the RBI governor). It also had recommended targeting consumer inflation to control volatile prices by shifting the current focus away from wholesale prices. Besides, he also had worked closely with several union and state government committees especially those on market studies, direct taxes, anti-trust laws, Prime Minister’s Task Force on Infrastructure and sectors like telecom, aviation, power and pensions. Note: The RBI is central bank of India. It regulates banks, prints money and prevents volatility in the foreign exchange market. It is also the government’s banker and lender of last resort.

32. India ranks a low 39th in terms of fixed broadband adoption in the list of 53 Asia Pacific countries. It was revealed by the recently released report ‘State of ICT in Asia and the Pacific 2016: Uncovering the Widening Broadband Divide’. It was published by United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). According to report India ranks lower than countries such as Sri Lanka, Bhutan and Bangladesh in fixed broadband subscriptions per 100 inhabitants in 2015 . Hong Kong, New Zealand, Japan, Macao, Australia and Singapore topped the list. In India, just 1.35 of its citizens have subscribed to fixed broadband service in 2015. The subscriptions per 100 inhabitants in the ESCAP region are behind Latin America and the Caribbean countries. It is far lower than Europe and North America. Fixed broadband penetration in Asia and the Pacific is below the world’s average of 11.2 subscriptions per 100 inhabitants in 2015. From 2005 onwards, there was a dramatic increase fixed broadband subscriptions in the ESCAP region. In 2005, the ESCAP region merely constituted 38.1% of the global total fixed broadband subscriptions. It was followed by Europe (28.6%) and North America (26.5%). According to the latest ITU (International Telecommunication Union) data for 2015, more than half of the global fixed broadband subscriptions are from Asia and the Pacific (52.3%). This is followed by Europe (21.9%) and North America (14.1%).

33. The meeting of BRICS women parliamentarian’s forum has begun in Jaipur, Rajasthan. BRICS is the grouping of Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. The two day meeting was inaugurated by Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan. A total of 43 delegates from member countries are participating in the meeting. Key Facts The meeting will see the participation of 5 women parliamentarians from Brazil, 3 from Russia, 28 from India, 2 from China and 4 from South Africa. There will be plenary session on the theme of ‘Perspectives on implementation of SDGs’ at the Rajasthan Vidhan sabha. First session of the meeting will be on the theme of ‘Achieving SDGs- Role of Women Parliamentarians in involving Citizens’. Besides, second session of will be based on theme “Containing Climate Change – Imperatives of Global Cooperation’.

34. Jamaican Sprinter Usain Bolt created an unprecedented record of a triple treble (first athlete to win 9 gold medals in sprinting events of Olympics) by winning third Gold medal in Rio Olympics 2016. He achieved this feat after Jamaica won gold medal in 4x100m relay final at the Rio Olympics. The team comprised of Usain Bolt, Asafa Powell, Yohan Blake and Nickel Ashmeade. Earlier in August 2016, Bolt had won gold medal in the 100-metre final at the Rio Olympics, becoming first athlete to win the event three times at consecutive Olympic Games. It was followed by his second win in the 200-metre final with a gold medal. With this, Bolt created a new record of three sprinting gold medals in three consecutive Olympics. He has won gold medals the 100 meters, 200 meters and 4×100 meters in Beijing 2008, London 2012 and now in Rio 2016. About Usain Bolt Usain Bolt was born 21 August 1986 in Trelawny, Jamaica. He has earned nickname Lightning Bolt due to his achievements in sprinting. He is regarded as the fastest person in the world ever timed. He is first athlete to hold both the 100 metres and 200 metres world records. He also holds the world record in the 4 × 100 metres relay. He also has won World and Olympic champion in these three events.

35. The World Humanitarian Day (WHD) is observed every year on 19 August to recognize work of humanitarian personnel and those who have lost their lives working for humanitarian causes. The observance of the day also provides an opportunity to celebrate the spirit that inspires humanitarian work around the globe. 2016 Theme: “One Humanity”. It highlights importance of shared human experiences that bind people together across divides and create a common responsibility to demand action for the most vulnerable at risk of being left behind. 2016 WHD digital campaign: “The World You’d Rather”. Background The World Humanitarian Day was designated by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by passing a resolution A/63/L.49. The resolution passed by UNGA on the Strengthening of the Coordination of Emergency Assistance of the United Nations was sponsored by Sweden. The day coincides with the anniversary of the 2003 bombing of the UN headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq. In this bombing, then Special Representative of the UN Secretary-General to Iraq, Sérgio Vieira de Mello and his 21 colleagues were killed.

36. India’s ace shuttler Pusarla Venkata Sindhu won the silver medal in women’s singles badminton event at 2016 Rio Olympics. In the final match of women’s singles badminton event, Sindhu lost to Spain’s Carolina Marín (World No.1) by 21-19, 12-21, 15-21 score. Earlier in her quarterfinal match, she had defated Japan’s Wang Yihan (World No.2) by 22-20, 21-19 score. With this, Sindhu became the first Indian woman to win silver medal in Olympics. Besides, she also became the fifth woman player from India to win a medal in Olympics. Moreover, she also became the fourth Indian to win a silver at the Olympics after wrestler Sushil Kumar (2012 London Olympics) and shooters Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore (2004 Athens Olympics) and Vijay Kumar (2012 London Olympics). She also became the second Indian female shuttler to win an Olympic medal after Saina Nehwal who had won Bronze medal at 2012 London Olympics. About PV Sindhu Born on5 July 1995 in Hyderabad, Telangana. She had received international attention after getting listed into the Top 20 list of Badminton World Federation rankings in 2012. In 2013, she created history by becoming first Indian women’s singles badminton player to win a medal at the 2013 World Championships. She had won bronze medal. Awards and Honours: She was awarded with Padma Shri, India’s fourth highest civilian honor in March 2015.

37. US based new research has found out that that Zika virus may damage brain cells not just in newborns but also in adults. However, this research is still in the early stages. In this study, researchers have focused on neural progenitor cells. These cells are the stem cells of the brain. They grow and divide in fetuses to create neurons, which are what carry information throughout our brains. Key Facts The study suggests that adults may not be immune to the effects of virus, as they also maintain small number of progenitor cells in the areas of the brain. Adults use these cells for learning and memory. They also help to replace and replenish damaged neurons. It study suggests that the Zika virus may affect the memory and learning centres in adult brains as the progenitor cells can be susceptible to Zika infection. About Zika Virus Zika virus is vector borne disease transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes. The virus is capable of causing serious birth defects i.e. neurological disorders and foetal deformation known as Microcephaly in which infants are born with abnormally smaller heads. Besides a possible link between the virus and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS: a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks part of the nervous system) is also suspected.

38. India has ranked 66th in the 2016 Global Innovation Index (GII). In this edition, India has jumped up by 15 spots from 81st position in 2015 GII. The annual index was released by France-based international business school INSEAD and World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), a specialized agency of the United Nations. The index ranks world economies since 2007 according to their innovation capabilities using more than 80 indicators. Key Facts India’s better performance in the 2016 GII readings was due to its strengths in tertiary education, corporate R&D, software export and market sophistication. India has starting to excel in ICT and creative goods exports. It is setting a good example highlighting how its policy is improving the innovation environment. Among the middle income countries, India (25th) came second after China (17th) in innovation quality by overtaking Brazil (27th). China has figured at the 25th position (29th in 2015 GII) is the only middle-income country in the top 25.

39. The India Post Payments Bank Limited (IPPBL) has received the Certificate of Incorporation from the Registrar of Companies, Ministry of Corporate Affairs under the Companies Act 2013. IPPBL would be the first PSU under the Department of Posts (DoP). With the incorporation, the Board of the IPPBL is likely to be constituted soon. Key Facts The incorporation of the IPPB Ltd paves the way for it to begin hiring of banking professionals to set up the bank and begin its operations in 2017. The DoP is expected to complete the roll out of its branches all over the country by September 2017. This could be the fastest roll out for a bank anywhere in the world. About India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) The Union Government has given its approval for setting up IPPB as a Public Limited Company under the DoP with 100% Government of India (GOI) equity. The DoP had received the “in-principle approval” of the RBI in September 2015 to set up the IPPB. The project will be rolled out in a phased manner in the entire country. The IPPB will leverage DoP’s network, resources and reach to make low-cost, quality and simple financial services easily accessible to customers in the country. Benefits of IPPB Further the cause of financial inclusion by providing basic banking, remittance services and payments services to customers. Facilitate spread of financial services like insurance, pensions, mutual funds to customers especially from rural areas and the unbanked and under-banked segments. Generate opportunities for propagating financial literacy across the country by using state of the art banking and payments technology. Generate new employment opportunities for skilled banking professionals. Encourage citizens to move towards a cashless economy by creating the largest bank network in the world in terms of accessibility.

40. Indian wrestler Narsingh Yadav was banned from all competitive sporting events for four years by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) based in Lausanne, Switzerland. He was banned by CAS following an appeal by World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) as there was no evidence to accept his claim that his food was spiked by banned doping substance. With CAS ruling, Yadav’s suspension begins immediately and he will not be able to participate in the 2016 Rio Olympics. He had qualified for the 2016 Rio Olympics in the 74 category of freestyle wrestling event. Background In July 2016, Narsingh Yadav had tested positive for banned substance steroid in an out-of-competition test conducted by the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA). He had tested positive for methandienone, a banned anabolic steroid which increases protein synthesis, muscle strength and glycogenolysis over a short space of time. In August 2016 he was given clean chit by NADA by accepted his claim of sabotage in doping case. However, WADA had filed an urgent application before the CAS ad hoc Division to challenge the decision of NADA. About Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) CAS is an international quasi-judicial body established to settle disputes related to sport through arbitration. Its Headquarter is located in Lausanne (Switzerland). Its courts are located in New York, Sydney and Lausanne. According to rule 61 of the Olympic Charter, all disputes in connection with the Olympic Games can only be submitted to CAS. Since 2016, an anti-doping division of CAS was given full authority to judge doping cases at the Olympic Games. It had replaced earlier mechanism of the IOC disciplinary commission.

41. India and Bangladesh have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Route Permit for carrying Petroleum Goods to Tripura via Bangladesh. The MoU was signed between Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and the Roads and Highways Department of Bangladesh in Dhaka. Key Facts The MoU enables IOCL to send its trucks carrying High Speed Diesel, Motor Spirit, Superior Kerosene Oil and Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) from Meghalaya to Tripura via territory of Bangladesh. The validity of this facility is till end of September, 2016. Besides, both sides have also agreed to extend the transit facility for a further short period on need basis. Background Due to heavy rains in the North-Eastern region during this Monsoon season, the roads, including NH 44, have been affected. It has resulted in non-plying of goods trucks, including those carrying petroleum goods to Tripura. This has resulted into a situation of scarcity of essential petroleum goods. Comment With granting access to transit routes Bangladesh Government has shown friendly, multi-dimensional and expanding bilateral relation with India. This friendly gesture is expected to improve the situation of shortage of petroleum products in Tripura.

42. The Union Ministry of Mines has launched web portal for Star Rating of Major Mineral Mines with an aim to promote sustainable mining. The portal was launched by the Union Minister of State (IC) for Mines, Power, Coal and New & Renewable Energy Piyush Goyal. Key Facts The online portal was developed by IBM (Indian Bureau of Mining) through NISG (National Institute of Smart Government), Hyderabad. The innovative scheme of star rating of mines was launched by the Union Ministry of Mines through IBM as part of Sustainable Development Framework (SDF) in the mining sector. The main objective of this system is to bring all mines to a minimum standard of Star Rating in the shortest possible time frame to adopt sustainable practices. Based on the performance of the mining leases, a one to five star rating would be given to the mines. Initially, the star rating will be done for mines of major minerals. The star rating will be based on the following parameters: (i) scientific and systematic mining, (ii) addressing social impact of resettlement and rehabilitation, (iii)local community engagements and welfare programmes, (iv) progressive and final mine closure and adoption of international standards and (v) adoption of international standards for mining operations and reporting. Comment The star rating will help in collation of various technical, environmental and social data by IBM, which will be utilised to allow better management and monitoring of mining areas. In the long run, it will help in formulation of Comprehensive Regional Plans to address cumulative impact in mining areas through coordinated and collective action.

43. The State Bank of India’s (SBI’s) board of directors has approved merger of its five associate banks and Bharatiya Mahila Bank (BMB) with itself. These five subsidiaries are State Bank of Bikaner & Jaipur, State Bank of Hyderabad, State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of Travancore and Bharatiya Mahila Bank. Key Facts The board has finalised the share swap ratio for three of the listed subsidiaries and BMB. It also approved merger of two unlisted associate banks State Bank of Patiala and State Bank of Hyderabad with it. The merger will create a global-sized bank with assets worth over Rs 37 lakh crore. It will make SBI one of the top 50 global financial powerhouses in the world. The merged entity will have network of 22,500 branches and 58,000 ATMs serving a customer base of over 50 crore. SBI has close to 16,500 branches, including 191 foreign offices across 36 countries while the five subsidiary banks have nearly 6,000 branches.

44. The Maharashtra Government became first state in the country to launch India’s first comprehensive ‘Crime Criminal Tracking Network System’ (CCTNS) in Mumbai. It was launched through the operationalisation of 42 cyber laboratories across the state in order to combat growing cybercrimes. Key Facts The CCTNS has been developed by Pune based Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (CDAC). Under it, all police stations in the state will be linked with one another for sharing information about crimes in their respective jurisdictions. It will pave the way for a digital police force in Maharashtra. The services of the cyber labs, will be linked by secure high-speed fibre optic cable network. It will be available to address cyber security concerns of private organisations and banks among others. Under it, the state government will raise a special cyber police force of around 1,000 policemen well trained to handle the growing incidents of cybercrimes.