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1) The 2nd Global Disability Summit is being held at Buenos Aires, Argentina from 6 June to 8 June 2019. From India a delegation headed by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment Thaawarchand Gehlot, will be participating in Summit. Union Minister also attended ‘1st Global Disability Summit’ held at London, UK in July 2018. Key Highlights of Summit- Background: the first-ever Global Disability Summit was held at London, United Kingdom (UK) on 24 July 2018. It was hosted by UK Department for International Development (UK DFID), along with the co-hosts International Disability Alliance (IDA) and Government of Kenya. The summit was attended by global leaders from more than 40 countries (including India), who committed to work in direction of economic empowerment of persons with disabilities. Objective: To deliberate on issues related to empowerment and inclusion of Persons with Disabilities (PwDs) across the world. To work out a mechanism so as to enable PwDs to live an independent and dignified life. Significance: The Global leaders attending the summit express their commitments towards eliminating stigma and discrimination against PwDs and to work towards promoting inclusive education, economic empowerment, technology and innovation in assistive devices, data desegregation etc. for them. Way Ahead: After the Summit, Indian delegation will also be participating in bilateral discussions with Argentina Government for developing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between two countries on 9 June to 10 June 2019.

2) Every year World Environment Day is celebrated on 5 June globally. It is celebrated to raise awareness globally about environmental issues and action that has to be taken to tackle them. The day is organized around an annual theme in order to draw attention towards pressing environmental issues. World Environment Day- Background: After the Conference on the Human Environment, or the Stockholm Conference in June 1972, the United Nation General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution (A/RES/2994 (XXVII)) in December 1972 to designate June 5 as World Environment Day. The date 5 June coincides with the first day of landmark Stockholm Conference. The day was first celebrated in 1974, and since then it is widely celebrated in more than 100 countries and continues to grow to become a global platform for public outreach. Theme for the World Environment Day 2019 was ‘Beat Air Pollution’. It has been chosen by this year’s host, China. It is a call for action call to combat the global crisis. According to United Nation the ‘Air Pollution’ topic invites people to consider how they can change their everyday lives to reduce the amount of air pollution and what effect their contribution will be towards global warming and on health. Globally 9 out of 10 people are exposed to levels of air pollutants that exceed safe levels set by World Health Organization (WHO). Celebration in India: On occasion on World Environment Day India reaffirmed its commitment to ensure a cleaner and sustainable planet. It accepted that living in harmony with nature will lead to a better future. India is committed to address climate change emergency and to ensure cleaner, greener planet and eco-friendly habitat to our children. The Environment and SDG: The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development states the need for global effort to ensure lasting protection of our planet and its natural resources. Sustainable Development Goals, in particular SDG14 and SDG15 focuses on protecting under water and on land ecosystems, also to sustainably use marine and terrestrial resources.

3) Google Maps has announced three India-first public transport navigation features with an aim to ease daily commute of users. Starting from 5 June 2019, Google Maps users will be able to see bus travel times from live traffic across ten Indian cities, get live train status for Indian Railways and even get mixed-mode commute suggestions which now combines auto-rickshaw and public transport. About Three New Feature for Commuters- Real-time bus travel information: This is first of its kind product feature, launched first in India. It will enable commuters to know how long bus trip will take from their starting location to destination, by factoring in live traffic conditions. This feature is now live across ten cities in India including Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Pune, Lucknow, Chennai, Mysore, Coimbatore, and Surat. Indicators: The bus travel times from live traffic will show results in green (when running on time) or red (when delayed). Real-Time train information status for long-distance trains: With this India-specific feature Google Maps can now help users know real-time live running status of a train and check if it is delayed. This feature it will work only in case of a long distance train journey. This feature was developed in partnership with ‘Where is my Train’ app that was acquired by the Google in 2018. Mixed-mode navigation Guidance with auto-rickshaw recommendation- This new feature will tell users if taking an auto-rickshaw is better or a different mode of transport such as metro, local train, or a bus when taking a journey. It will indicate from/to which station or stop users should take an auto-rickshaw and their total journey time. It will also tell users what station/stop will be the most suitable for switching to other means of transport. Users can also see rickshaw meter estimate and departure times for their transit connection. Currently this feature will rolled out only in Delhi and Bangalore before being available to more cities later.

4) The Airports Authority of India (AAI) signed a technical assistance agreement with Boeing to develop and modernise India’s Air Traffic Management. Key Highlights- Roadmap: Aerospace major Boeing entered into a technical assistance pact with AAI to jointly develop a comprehensive 10-year roadmap for modernising air traffic management in India. It is expected to be developed within 1.5 years (18 months). The roadmap will be undertaken with a grant from the United States Trade and Development Agency (USTDA). The roadmap so developed by Boeing will be used as guidance in the modernisation of the Indian National Airspace System (NAS). It will be based on global and local best practices of optimally utilising airspace capacity, enhancing communications and also investing in surveillance, navigation and air traffic management. Boeing will also analyse current technologies and processes to identify efficiency improvements that can be implemented in project undertaken at the same time maintaining a practical and safe airspace system. Collaboration: As part of the project Boeing will work closely with Directorate General of Civil Aviation (Indian aviation regulator), airlines operating in India, airport operators and other airspace stakeholders like US-India Aviation Cooperation Program (ACP). Significance: Airports Authority of India (AAI) owns and manages around 125 airports across India thus implementation of modern technologies and adoption of global practices will allow India to increase its airspace capacity significantly. It will improve communications, enable flexible use of airspace in country and will also allow safe processing of additional flights using air navigation infrastructure for more efficient skies in India.

5) The Social networking giant Facebook launched its first interactive game show, titled “Confetti” in India on 4 June 2019. The launch announcement was made on sidelines of Facebook’s Social Entertainment Summit held in Mumbai, Maharashtra. About Confetti: It is Facebook’s first official show in India and will go on air starting 12 June 2019. It will air from Wednesday to Sunday on Facebook Watch, Facebook’s dedicated video platform. The interactive game show is exclusive to Facebook Watch. Prize: The participants stand a chance to win Rs.3 lakh as cash prize everyday on challenge of answering pop culture trivia questions. It seeks to enable its users to engage better and bring communities together around exceptional, interactive video experiences on Facebook. The interactive game was first launched in the United States (US) and is already available in other parts of the world the UK, Mexico, Canada, Vietnam, Philippines and Thailand. About Facebook Watch: It is Facebook’s video-on-demand service. It was globally rolled out by the social networking giant in 2018, in an attempt to take on its rival YouTube. It allows users to enjoy videos from different genres in their personalised Watch Feed (carries recent videos collection from pages followed).

6) Sahara Group recently announced its entry into the automobile sector with plans of launching electric vehicles under the brand name ‘Sahara Evols’. The Sahara business group plans to offer a wide range of electric vehicles (EVs) along with advanced allied services. The entry into electric vehicle business is a move to push adoption in Tier II and III cities. About Sahara Evols- Variants: Its product portfolio comprises variants of electric scooters, three-wheelers, motorcycles, and cargo vehicles. It will also introduce a network of battery-charging-cum-swapping stations. Coverage: Sahara Evols will start from Lucknow and will further establish its ecosystem in India’s Tier-II and Tier-III cities by the end of financial year 2019-2020 in a phased manner. The company will roll out its products and services pan-India in the next financial year (2020-2021). Features: The Sahara Evols electric vehicles are powered by dry lithium-ion batteries. Their cost of driving in an average can go as low as 20paise per kilometer (against driving cost of Rs.2 per kilometer on petrol vehicles). This will entail direct and substantial economic benefits to its users.

7) Sahara Group recently announced its entry into the automobile sector with plans of launching electric vehicles under the brand name ‘Sahara Evols’. The Sahara business group plans to offer a wide range of electric vehicles (EVs) along with advanced allied services. The entry into electric vehicle business is a move to push adoption in Tier II and III cities. About Sahara Evols- Variants: Its product portfolio comprises variants of electric scooters, three-wheelers, motorcycles, and cargo vehicles. It will also introduce a network of battery-charging-cum-swapping stations. Coverage: Sahara Evols will start from Lucknow and will further establish its ecosystem in India’s Tier-II and Tier-III cities by the end of financial year 2019-2020 in a phased manner. The company will roll out its products and services pan-India in the next financial year (2020-2021). Features: The Sahara Evols electric vehicles are powered by dry lithium-ion batteries. Their cost of driving in an average can go as low as 20paise per kilometer (against driving cost of Rs.2 per kilometer on petrol vehicles). This will entail direct and substantial economic benefits to its users.

8) Veteran Malayalam actress Sheela was honoured with prestigious J C Daniel Award for her contributions to Malayalam Cinema field. She is only the second woman to win this award after Aranmula Ponnamma (in 2005). About J C Daniel Award- It is Kerala government’s highest honour for outstanding contribution to Malayalam cinema. It is named after J C Daniel, who is credit for making first silent movie in Mollywood (Malayalam Film Industry). Prize: The award comprises of a citation, plaque and a cash prize of ₹5 Lakh. The annual award will be given away on 27 July 2019 at a function in Kerela. This year’s jury was chaired by renowned filmmaker K.S. Sethumadhavan. About Sheela: She is popularly called as Sheelamma by her admirers. Veteran actress debuted during early 1960s with Tamil movie Paasam. Later in 1962 she began her career in Malayalam with movie Bhagyajathakam directed by P. Bhaskaran. Since then she has been Malayalam cinema’s sweetheart for a couple of decades. Achievements: She scripted history as being first recipient of ‘best actress’ award instituted by the Kerala government fir her 1969 movie “Kallichellamma“. She has won State and National Awards for the best character artist for for the film Akale in 2004. She holds Guinness book of records to her name for acting as Prem Nazir’s heroine in 130 films.

9) Renowned scientist, Mrutyunjay Mohapatra is appointed as Director-General the India Meteorological Department (IMD). His appointment order was issued by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. About Mrutyunjay Mohapatra- The 54-year-old cyclone warning specialist is Scientist ‘G’ (grade) in IMD. Prior to joining IMD, he worked at the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratory in Chandipur. He is appointed as chief of IMD and will assume charge of the post on or after 1 August 2019 for a period of five years. He leads the Cyclone Warning Division (CWD) of the IMD and is well known as ‘Cyclone Man‘ for his cyclone forecasts. In past six years, CWD has given accurate forecasts on cyclones such as Phailin (2013), Hudhud (2014) and Titli (2018) which hit the eastern coast. Focus Areas: He seeks to strengthen the IMD’s infrastructure and improve dissemination of weather-related information with focus on sector-related forecast and giving impact-based prediction in all areas. By sector-related forecasts, IMD intends to give predictions on specific areas like information for transport systems (like trains). At present IMD gives impact-based predictions only for cyclones. About India Meteorological Department- It is an agency of Union Ministry of Earth Sciences. It is responsible for meteorological observations, seismology and weather and climate related forecasts for the country. It is mandated to warn against severe weather phenomenon like cold and heat-waves, dust storms, cyclones, heavy rain and snow and others.

10) The Anti-ship version of supersonic cruise missile BrahMos was test fired from the launch complex-3 of Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Odisha. About BrahMos Missile- The name BrahMos is formed from names of two rivers i.e. Indian river Brahmaputra and the Moskva River of Russia. Manufacturer: The missile is manufactured at BrahMos Aerospace Limited which is a joint venture between India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia’s NPO Mashinostroyenia (NPOM). Strategic Importance: The supersonic cruise missile is a strategic asset for India as in case of any possible threats from China and Pakistan it would act as deterrence against them. Deployed: It has been operationalised in Indian Army, Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy. Features: It is often described as the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile. It is highly versatile thus can be fired from land, sea and air with a high rate of precision and accuracy. In modern-day complex battlefields, Brahmos has established itself as a major force multiplier with its impeccable land-attack, anti-ship capabilities along with a high rate of precision and accuracy. It also has multi-role and multi-platform abilities. Range: The medium-range ramjet supersonic cruise missile has a strike range of about 290 km.

11) The “Kharga Prahar”, a major training exercise conducted by the Indian Army in Punjab from 27 May 2019 concluded on 4 June 2019. Key Highlights of Exercise- Kharga Prahar exercise was undertaken in plains of Punjab by various units and formations of Army’s Kharga Corps. The exercise was successful in validating latest operational concepts which are designed to deliver a swift punitive blow to India’s adversary. The exercise brought out valuable lessons and also reinforced a high degree of operational preparedness of the Kharga Corps. Joint Training: The exercise setting also incorporated joint training aspects as Indian Air Force (IAF) components also participated. As part of training para drops from IAF aircraft were carried out and simulated battlefield air strikes were conducted in support of ground forces. About Kharga Corps: The Indian Army’s II Corps, based in Ambala is known as Kharga Corps. It has been stationed at Ambala since 1985. If conflict or war breaks out between India and neighbouring Pakistan, in such case it has a mandate to launch offensive attack. Kharga possesses 50% of Indian Army’s offensive capabilities and on integration with multiple military formations it has proved an effective weapon in various wars. In 1971, Bangladesh Liberation War Khara Corps was positioned in West Bengal and helped in division of Pakistan. During the Kargil conflict in 1999 this elite force was deployed somewhere in the desert sector.

12) After taking charge of his office, Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, Dr. Mahendra Nath Pandey held a first review meeting with senior officials of Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) in which the decision was taken to waive off fee for SC/ST candidates joining vocational training under Jan Shikshan Sansthans. Key Highlights: As per the decision taken at MSDE’ review meeting, all those SC/ST candidates who join vocational training under Jan Shikshan Sansthans (JSS), which operates under the aegis of Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE) their fees will be waived off. Background: In January 2019, comprehensive reforms were brought in for Directorate of Jan Shikshan Sansthan (DJSS), which was formerly under Ministry of Human Resources Development (MHRD) and was transferred to Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship in 2018. This decision follows those recent comprehensive reforms. Objective: to further strengthen skill ecosystem so as to benefit those in underprivileged sections of society. About Jan Shikshan Sansthans- Background: The Jan Shikshan Santhan (JSS) scheme of was initially launched in 1967 as Shramik Vidyapeeth, a multi-faceted adult education institution that was aimed at improving vocational skills and quality of life of industrial workers and their family members and of migrants workers, coming to urban areas. In April 2000, Shramik Vidyapeeth scheme was renamed as Jan Shikshan Sansthan and its focus was also extended to the rural areas. Function: JSS imparts vocational skill training programmes and entrepreneurship benefits accessible to underprivileged and un-reached sections of society like SCs, STs, women and girls, neo-literates, semi-literates, slum dwellers, migrant workers. They do not provide just skill development, but also link literacy with vocational skills and technical knowledge and provide large doses of Life Enrichment Education (LEE) to the people enrolled. At present there are 247 JSSs working across the country.

13) On the eve of World Environment Day, Union Environment Minister, Shri Prakash Javadekar launched a people’s campaign called #SelfiewithSapling, urging people to advocate the cause on social media. Key Highlights about Campaign: Union Environment Minister, Shri Prakash Javadekar urged all people to join the campaign and plant a sapling and post selfie with the planted sapling on social media. He also stressed that ‘Jan Bhagidari’ (means Peoples Participation) is integral towards tackling environmental issues and environment protection has to be a people’s movement for achieving success in domain. He also informed that on occasion of World Environment Day (celebrated on 5 June) he along with Kapil Dev (renowned cricketer) and Jackie Shroff (bollywood actor) will plant sapling in premises of Paryavaran Bhawan (India’s first on site net zero building) in New Delhi. Significance: Such initiatives are needed so as to create a carbon sink. Also environmental concerns cannot be addressed solely by government and has to be a people’s programme. Other Initiatives- Hawa Aane De: Recently, the Environment ministry released a music video for World Environment Day 2019′s theme of “Air Pollution”, song is titled “Hawa Aane De”. NCAP: In January 2019, National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) was launched by Centre government with aim to reduce air pollution by 2024. According to environment ministry, the committee formed under NCAP has drawn up an action plan for 84 of 102 non-attainment cities, i.e. cities that do not meet the National Air Quality Standard (NAQS) identified under programme.

14) Prime Minister Narendra Modi on assuming his office took the very first decision of granting approval to major changes in the ‘Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme’ under the National Defence Fund. This decision is in line with PM’s vision for India’s safety, security and well-being of those who protect the nation. Changes approved by Prime Minister- Scholarship Rate: The rates of scholarship have been increased from Rs.2000pm (per month) to Rs.2500pm for boys and from Rs.2250pm to Rs.3000pm for girls. Scholarship Extended: The ambit of Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme is now extended to include the wards of State Police officials who are or were martyred during terror or naxal attacks. The new scholarships quota for wards of state police officials will be 500 in one year. For the implementation of it the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will be the nodal Ministry. Significance: The move of including police personnel wards provides recognition to the length of monumental contribution of our police personnel who performing their duties with utmost diligence. The availability of scholarship under the scheme will enable more youngsters from police families to study and excel in different fields and will also have an empowering effect on several bright young minds. The Prime Minister took the decision in spirit that it is country’s duty not only to express gratitude but also do things towards welfare of police personnel and their families. About National Defence Fund- Background: NDF was set up in 1962. It was meant to take charge of voluntary donations (in cash and kind) received for promotion of national defence effort, and also to decide on their utilisation. National Defence Fund also accepts online voluntary contributions. Purpose: NDF is used for welfare of members of Armed Forces, Para Military forces and Railway Protection Force, and their dependents. Administration: An Executive Committee chaired by Prime Minister and with Defence Ministers, Finance Ministers and Home Ministers as Members administers the fund. ‘Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme’ (PMSS) is implemented under NDF. PMSS: encourages technical and post-graduate education for widows and wards of deceased or ex-service personnel of Armed Forces, Para Military Forces and Railway Protection Force (RPF). Scholarships under the scheme are available for education at technical institutions such as MBA, MCA, engineering, medical, dental, veterinary, or any other equivalent technical professions (with suitable AICTE/UGC approval). Under PMSS new scholarships are given every year for about 5500 wards of armed forces (which is controlled by Ministry of Defence), 2000 wards of paramilitary forces (by Ministry of Home Affairs) and for 150 wards of forces (by Ministry of Railways).

15) Ajit Doval is reappointed as National Security Advisor (NSA) of India for another five year tenure. In recognition of his earlier contribution in the national security domain, he has also been elevated to rank of Cabinet Minister for this term. During his first term 2014-2019 NSA was given rank of Minister of State (MoS). About Ajit Doval: He is a 1968-batch IPS officer. For over 33 years he worked as an intelligence officer during which he served in North East, Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab. The 74 year old Doval had also done several key diplomatic assignments in Pakistan and the United Kingdom (UK). He headed the Intelligence Bureau’s (IB) operations wing for over a decade including serving as Director of Intelligence Bureau (IB) from July 2004 to January 2005. Post retirement, he founded Vivekananda International Foundation, a public policy think tank headquartered in New Delhi. In May 2014, he was appointed as India’s fifth NSA. Under his supervision, Surgical strike was conducted in September 2016 (aftermath of Uri terror attack) and Balakot airstrike was conducted in February 2019 (aftermath of suicide attack on CRPF convey). About National Security Advisor (NSA)- NSA is the chief adviser to the prime minister of India on national and international security policy matters. He serves at the discretion of Prime Minister of India. NSA is now seen as the most powerful bureaucrat in the Government of India. This post was created in 1998 by then government of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Since then either an Indian Foreign Service (IFS) or the Indian Police Service (IPS) serves the post. Senior IFS officer Brajesh Mishra was India’s first NSA (in office from November 1998-May 2004). NSA presides over the National Security Council (NSC). NSC was established in 1998. It is an executive government agency that oversees India’s political, economic, energy and security issues of strategic concern. It is a three-tiered organization comprising of Joint Intelligence Committee (JIC), Strategic Policy Group (SPG) and National Security Advisory Board (NSAB).

16) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) appointed Nandan Nilekani committee has submitted its suggestions on measures to encourage digital payments in India to RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das. Background: In January 2019 the RBI had set up the five-member panel under the chairmanship of Nandan Nilekani to provide suggestions on deepening digital payments with a view of encouraging digitization of payments and of enhancing financial inclusion through digitization. Key Recommendation by Nilekani Panel- The measures suggest by Nilekani Panel includes elimination of all charges, round the clock (24×7) RTGS (real time gross settlement) and NEFT (national electronic funds transfer) facility and duty-free import of point-of-sales (POS) machines. As per the report within last five years many people have entered the Indian banking network system through the Financial Inclusion schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) and also lot of digital credit into bank accounts have been added due to direct benefit transfers (DBT), and digitization of government payments. Customer Service: Panel suggested that there should be no convenience fee on payments made by customers to government agencies. It also recommended that to handle customer complaints payment systems should use machine-driven, online dispute resolution systems. Payment Monitoring: It recommended that for monitoring the digital payment systems, the RBI and the government should put in place an appropriate mechanism and must make aggregated information (based on blocks, and PIN code), available to all players involved on a monthly basis, so that they can make the necessary adjustments in a timely manner. Larger balances: Since digital transactions result in larger balances with banks, thus panel suggested that customers must be allowed to initiate and accept a reasonable number of digital payment transactions without levying any charges. Digital Infrastructure: Although the banks have issued more than billion debit cards and 50 million credit cards but, with only about 3.5 million POS devices, and 2 lakh ATMs to accept cards there acceptance is still low from an infrastructure perspective. Thus to incentivize acquirers of cards in spite of the acute paucity of acquisition infrastructure in India, the committee suggests that regulator must intervene at regular intervals to fine tune interchange fee levied and to address other related issues, as well as to ensure that there is level playing field in market both for issuer and acquirer. The features of ATMs much be enhanced such that it act as a complete Digital facilitation point. It includes features of ATMs such as from cash dispenser to support gamut of banking facilities as well as cash Deposit, tax deposits, bills payment, funds transfer, mobile recharge and customer support and grievance reporting Suggested internationalization plan for Indian payment systems like RuPay and BHIM (Bharat Interface for Money) UPI (Unified Payment Interface applications) to ease the flow of remittances into India and also to help Indian travellers make payments abroad.

17) The Indian Army has commissioned a “Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring System” (CAAQMS) at its Eastern Command headquarters in Fort William Military Station, Kolkata in West Bengal. The commission of air quality monitor is part of Army’s countrywide ‘Go Green’ initiative, which was started in April 2019. Key Features of The CAAQMS- It will monitor air pollution of city on real time basis and its readings will be considered a benchmark of quality. This recent installation will be sixth CAAQMS facility in Kolkata. Measures: The CAAQMS installed at William Military station will measure air pollution continuously throughout the year. It includes measuring pollutants like SO2, NO, NO2, NH3, CO, O3, VOC and particulate matters (PM 10 and PM 2.5). It will also display relative humidity, ambient temperature, solar radiation, wind speed and direction, barometric pressure and rain gauge. Usage: The data so collected can be remotely monitored on internet and can also be published into various desired formats for public awareness. The CAAQMS data can also be used by West Bengal Pollution Control Board (WBPCB) or any other local or international weather monitoring bodies. Significance: The installation of CAAQMS is special because it will act as the ‘control station’ (i.e. it will monitor air quality at an ideal situation) and its readings will be considered a benchmark of quality.

18) The World Bicycle Day was globally celebrated on 3 June 2019 by organising group rides on the event to popularize the use of bicycles in daily life. Background: In 2018, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared 3 June as World Bicycle Day to observe the day as a celebration of “uniqueness, longevity, and versatility” of the bicycle. Professor Leszek Sibilski of Montgomery College, Maryland, United States with his Sociology class petitioned for the bicycle to have its own day and to recognize all its good qualities. Professor Sibilski and his class then led a grassroots campaign to promote a UN Resolution for World Bicycle Day which used social media to spread word globally and nominated 3 of June to mark as World Bicycle Day. The campaign eventually gained the support of Turkmenistan and 56 other countries and was finally materialized in 2018, when the UN declared it a world holiday. Significance: The day highlights bicycle as an affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of transportation also as they do not produce any air-borne pollutants, fumes, greenhouse gases and even reduce countries carbon footprints. Amsterdam leads the number with 40% of all its commuters use a bicycle to go to work. Celebrations Worldwide: In an effort to bring bicycle and cycling habit back in fashion, the World Bicycle Day event in New York, saw the participation of various countries including Turkmenistan, Bahrain, Indonesia, Canada and even India’s Ambassador to the United Nations (UN) Syed Akbaruddin and his team. In 2018, Vice President Venkaiah Naidu, and then Minister for Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, Dr Harsh Vardhan, , inaugurated the adoption of bike sharing system in the core area of New Delhi Also days ahead of World Bicycle Day celebration in 2018, Bengaluru appointed its first ever ‘Bicycle Mayor‘ the first of its kind in India, Satya Shankaran.

19) The Elephanta Festival of art and culture commenced at the iconic Gateway of India in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The festival was inaugurated by state Tourism Minister Jaykumar Rawal who highlighted government’s commitment towards boosting Elephanta island tourism in all possible ways. Key Features- Background: The Elephanta Festival of art and culture was started in 2012 and since then is held every year to promote tourism and culture of Mumbai. It is held on Gharapuri island (also known as Elephanta Island) where Elephanta Caves are located. The annual gala event is organised on Elephanta Island by Maharashtra Tourism Development Corporation (MTDC). It is promoted by Maharashtra government. About Elephanta Caves- They are the rock-cut Caves and were constructed around the mid-5th to 6th centuries AD. They are a collection of cave temples primarily dedicated to Lord Shiv but also have Buddhist caves. The island was renamed as Elephanta from Gharapuri (which means the city of caves) by Portuguese after they found a statue of an elephant on island. Elephanta Caves is currently maintained by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and are also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

20) Celebrated cricket broadcaster Ashis Ray released a new book titled ‘Cricket World Cup: The Indian Challenge’. It the new book he has Ray penned down the journey of Indian cricket at the World Cups since the inaugural edition of WCs in 1975. About ‘Cricket World Cup: The Indian Challenge’ Book. It is published by Bloomsbury. It describes the readers about the beautiful journey witnessed by India ever since1975 when the West Indies won 60-over World Cup held in England. It reviews all World Cup tournaments from year 1975 to 2015 as well as previews ongoing 2019 World Cup in England and Wales. The book records all matches played by India, since the World Cup inaugural (44 years ago) and also every semi-final and final regardless of whether India featured in them or not. It provides details about the story of India’s turning point in One Day Cricket (ODI) held in Guyana when in March 1983 Indian team under Kapil Dev defeated previously unassailable West Indies in their own backyard. In total nine chapters of book Ray has talked about all facets of Indian cricket with details of India’s performance in each and every World Cup and also about the controversies such as Greg Chappell’s controversial tenure as India coach or Indian Premier League (IPL) corruption scandal. About Ashis Ray: He is the world’s senior-most active cricket broadcaster. At the age of 24 in 1975, Ray made his debut as a Test match commentator on All India Radio (AIR). He holds the merit of being World’s youngest Test match commentator. During the BBC’s coverage of 1983 edition of World Cup match(in which India defeated cricket giants West Indies), he was the only Asian ball-by-ball commentator.

21) The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India Rajiv Mehrishi has been elected as external auditor of World Health Organization (WHO) for a period of four years from year 2020 to 2023. Key Highlights- CAG Rajiv Mehrishi was elected at 72nd World Health Assembly (WHA) held in Geneva, Switzerland on May 2019. He will take over the charge from the Supreme Audit Institution of Philippines which is the incumbent External Auditor of WHO. At 72nd WHA, CAG of India was elected with a majority of 90 votes out of 162 votes in first round of voting itself. Apart from India others competing for elected position includes Auditors General of United Kingdom (UK) of Great Britain, Congo, France, Northern Ireland, Ghana and Tunisia. Other Appointments: In March 2019 the CAG was chosen for the post of External Auditor of Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in Rome Italy thus the external auditor of WHO is the second major international audit assignment for CAG in same year. Currently, CAG Mehrishi is also on the Board of Auditors of United Nations (UN) and Vice-Chair of the UN Panel of External Auditors (UNPEA).

22) The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) appointed Yousef Aldobeay of Saudi Arabia as its special envoy for Jammu & Kashmir. The decision was taken at the 14th OIC Summit held in the holy city of Makkah, in Saudi Arabia. Key Highlights- The 57-member grouping approved Saudi Arabia’s Yousef Aldobeay as its special envoy for Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). The OIC extended their support for people of Jammu and Kashmir and towards achievement of their legitimate rights. They called upon India to hold a referendum in J&K under the United Nations’ patronage. This decision to appoint a special envoy for J&K was mainly was of OIC contact group on Kashmir and several of OIC members were not party to this decision and maintained a neutral stance on this issue. Background: In March 2019 India was invited for the first time as the guest of honour for the plenary session of the OIC foreign ministers’ meet held in at Abu Dhabi (in UAE). On that occasion, Pakistan initially tried to ‘disinvite’ India and later used every session to defame India but failed to get Jammu and Kashmir’s issue mentioned in final joint declaration of plenary session because the hosts and Saudi Arabia tried to ensure that their guest (India) was not embarrassed and stood solidly behind the country. These developments came within three months of the same OIC foreign ministers’ meet even when some of the key OIC member states across continents have not been in favour of a strong position on Kashmir. Reason: Due to the current complicated political situation in West Asia particularly the tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran which is coupled with the dependence of some key nations in region on Pakistan Army against Houthis and Iran might have possibly prompted the 57-member OIC grouping to appoint a special envoy for Kashmir.

23) Indian Air Force’s AN-32 transport aircraft goes missing after taking off from Jorhat in Assam. The airborne aircraft had total 13 people on board including eight aircrew and five passengers. Key Highlights- AN-32 aircraft got airborne on 3 June from Jorhat at 12:27 p.m. for Mechuka Advanced Landing Ground (only 29 kms from the China border), in Mechuka Valley in West Siang District of Arunachal Pradesh. It last contacted ground agencies at around 1:00 p.m. after that there has been was no contact with the aircraft. Since the aircraft lost the contact and did not reach the destination also Indian Air Force initiated overdue actions. Search Operation: C 130J Super Hercules aircraft, AN-32 military transport aircraft, two Mi-17 (medium twin-turbine transport helicopter)of Indian Air Force (IAF) and ALH (Advanced Light Helicopters) helicopter of Indian Army were launched to locate the missing aircraft. Helicopters were routed to the location after some ground reports were received about possible location of a crash site however no wreckage has been sighted so far. IAF is in continuous coordination with Indian Army and with various government and civil agencies to locate the missing aircraft. The Search operation to locate the missing IAF AN-32 aircraft is underway with operation from air by IAF and by ground parties of Indian Army and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). About Anton AN-32: It is a tactical transport aircraft and is an extensive used by Indian Air Force (IAF). It has been in service since 1984 and has been a trustworthy workhorse for the IAF for many years. Specification: As the service ceiling of Antonov An-32 turboprop aircraft is 31,000ft so it flies lower and slower (with a cruising speed of 470 kmph) than most commercial jetliners (which have a service ceiling of 40,000ft), thus this gives lesser room for the An-32 to outrun bad weather or climb over it.

24) The Quadrilateral Security Dialogue also known as Quad is an informal strategic grouping consisting of India, US, Australia and Japan recently met in Bangkok in Thailand. Key Highlights of Meet- The meet in Bangkok was attended by senior officials of Quad (India, US, Japan and Australia). At the meet countries held consultations on their collective efforts for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The consultations also underscored Quad’s intention of continuing with close coordination and collaboration among themselves in support of sustainable, private sector-led development, maritime security of the region and of good governance. The Quad (or QSD) is committed to preserving and promoting the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region. At this meet they reaffirmed their shared commitment. The Quad call for an open Indo-Pacific region (which is a biogeographic region) is because China has been trying to expand its military presence in the Indo-Pacific. China claims almost all of the South China Sea (SCS) even though other countries of same region viz. Vietnam, Philippines, Malaysia, Brunei and Taiwan have also countered China’s claims over it.

25) The 14th summit of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held in Mecca, Saudi Arabia was hosted by Saudi King Salman bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud. Key Highlights of Summit- Agenda: The official agenda of meeting was to address ‘current issues in Muslim world’ and ‘recent developments in a number of OIC member states. Also, amid soaring tension between Iran and the US and its Gulf allies the OIC summit discussed the regional security issues. The Mecca summit supported Palestinians and backed Saudis in Iran standoff. Background: In December 2017, The United States President Donald Trump broke the decades of established protocol by recognizing Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. In May 2018 US embassy was transferred from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. The suit was soon followed by Guatemala. Political leaders and heads of state from Islamic nations unanimously condemned countries including United Sates decision of making “illegal and irresponsible decision” to recognise Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. In a joint statement at OIC summit in Saudi Arabia, the leaders called on countries that have moved their embassies to Jerusalem (by recognizing it as Israel’s capital) to rethink their strategy and which OIC considered as a serious violation of international law and international legitimacy. About Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC): It was established in 1969 by 24 member states and presently has 57 member states from four continents. Members: Out of total 57 member states the organisation has several significant non-Arab member states, like Turkey, Iran and Pakistan. The 22 members of the Arab League are also part of OIC. It has five observer members, including Russia and Thailand. With a collective population of more than 1.8 billion, it is the second largest intergovernmental body after the United Nations (UN). Objective: As per OIC charter, it aims to preserve Islamic values, safeguard and defend national sovereignty and independence of its member states and also to contribute to international peace and security. OIC states itself as ‘the collective voice of the Muslim world’ and works towards protecting interests of Muslim world. Summit: OIC holds an Islamic Summit once every three years at which heads of state discuss ways to achieve OIC’s charter’s objectives and make policy decisions that concern its member states. OIC has permanent delegations to the UN and the European Union (EU) Its official languages are Arabic, English and French.

26) Liverpool beats Tottenham Hotspur with 2-0 to win UEFA Champions League football trophy final at Madrid, Spain. This was Tottenham first ever appearance in the Champions League final. Key Highlights- In an all-English Champions League final the 2-0 win by Liverpool over Tottenham Hotspur was result of an early goal from Mohamed Salah and a late one from Divock Origi. Liverpool’s coach Juergen Klopp received the Europe’s biggest prize. With this win Liverpool claimed its sixth European Champions League title. This title has further cemented their status as one of football’s most storied clubs. They now have more than Barcelona (or Bayern Munich) and twice as many as Manchester United club. About UEFA Champions League (UCL)- It was founded in 1955 and is organised by Union of European Football Associations (UEFA). It is an annual club football competition which is contested by top-division European clubs. It is one of the World’s most prestigious tournaments and most prestigious club competition in European football which decides the best team in Europe. It played by the national league champions (and, for some nations, one or more runners-up) of strongest UEFA national associations.

27) The Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) overtook India Oil Corporation (IOC) by regaining crown of being India’s most profitable Public Sector Undertakings (PSU). Key Highlights- In the previous two financial years (2016-17 and 2017-18) ONGC had lost the most profitable PSU tag to IOC. In fiscal year 2018-19, ONGC’s net profits increased by 34% to Rs.26,716 crore in comparison to it IOC registered a net profit of Rs.17,274 crore for fiscal year ended March 31, 2019. In Financial year 2018-19 IOC also lost its title of being India’s largest company by turnover tag to Mukesh Ambani led Reliance Industries. It was because IOC’s refining margins were under pressure due to falling oil prices. Thus with a 44% rise in revenue, RIL is now India’s biggest firm in terms of revenue, profit and market capitalisation. About ONGC: It is a state owned multinational oil and gas company earlier headquartered in Dehradun, (Uttarakhand) now headquartered in Vasant Kunj, Delhi. It is a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU), under administrative control of Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. It is India’s largest oil and gas exploration and production company which global rank of 11 among the Top 250 Global Energy Companies (by Platts). It produces about 62% of India’s natural gas demand 70% of India’s crude oil demand which is equivalent to around 30% of India’s total demand.

28) Europe’s Highest Volcano Mount Etna, in southern Italy erupted with burst into life, spews ash, fire, and spitting molten lava high into sky. Key Highlights- This is 2019’s first eruption as the volcano on island of Sicily previously erupted in December 2018. The lava came from two eruptive fissures on northeastern and south-southeastern sides of Mount Etna’s New Southeast Crater. Mount Etna burst into life, spitting molten lava high into sky. Italy’s National Institute of Geophysics and Vulcanology (INGV) reported the lively spattering after volcano erupted and as fire and hot ash spewed high into sky which later slowed slightly but still posed risk to climbers. It also reported that latest lava show did not pose any problems for nearby residential areas or for flights at closest airport at Catania. About Mount Etna- With an elevation of 3,326 m (10,912 ft), it is the highest peak in Italy (south of Alps) and is the highest active volcano in Europe outside the Caucasus. It is also the largest of the three active volcanoes in Italy, other being Mount Vesuvius, near Naples and Mount Stromboli, one of the Aeolian Islands. It is about 2.5 times the height of the next largest, Mount Vesuvius. It is an active stratovolcano and is located on the east coast of Sicily, Italy, in the Metropolitan City of Catania. The United Nations has designated Mt. Etna as a Decade Volcano due to its history of recent activity and nearby population. In June 2013, it was added to the list of The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites.

29) The United States of America (USA) President Donald Trump terminated India’s designation as a beneficiary developing nation under the GSP (Generalized System of Preference) trade program w.e.f. 5 June 2019. Key Highlights- The US has withdrawn preferential tariffs to Indian exports. The step was taken on determining that India has not committed to provide “equitable and reasonable access to its markets” for the US. Under the US’s oldest preferential trade scheme called GSP, India is the largest beneficiary nation and exported goods worth $6.35 billion under the scheme in 2018. Reasons: cited by trump administration are trade imbalance with India, no access to Indian market for US dairy, medical device industry and issues related to data localisation norms. Outcome: As per the traders, exports are likely to become costlier, even less competitive in specific sectors, but the overall impact would be minimal on India’s outbound trade with US. Although, some specific exports from India in sectors like leather, jewellery, agricultural products chemicals and pharmaceuticals are set to face higher costs and competition. About GSP benefits- The Generalized System of Preferences are unilateral, non-reciprocal and non-discriminatory benefits extended by some developed nations to developing countries. Background: GSP was instituted on 1 January 1976, by Trade Act of 1974. The GSP program has effective dates which are specified in relevant legislation thus in order to remain in effect it requires periodical reauthorization. Objective: The U.S. designed trade program seeks to promote economic growth in developing countries by providing preferential duty-free entry for up to 4,800 products from 129 designated beneficiary countries and territories. Eligibility Criteria: As per US norms, to qualify for GSP a beneficiary nation must meet 15 discretionary and mandatory eligibility criteria established by US Congress which includes providing US with equitable and reasonable market access, respecting mutual and internationally recognised worker rights, working for combating child labour and providing adequate and effective intellectual property rights (IPR) protection. But, reinstatement of GSP benefits is conditional. Way Forward: As part of bilateral trade discussions between India and US, India had offered resolution on significant US requests in an effort to find a mutually acceptable way forward but unfortunately that this did not find acceptance by US. Therefore, like US and other nations India shall always uphold its national interest in these matters and should consider significant development imperatives and concerns and its people who also aspire for better standards of living. In any bilateral relationship particularly in area of economic ties, there are issues which get resolved mutually from time to time. Thus India views this issue as a part of this regular process and will continue to build on strong ties with US, both economically and people-to-people. India is confident that two countries will continue to work together intensively for further growing these ties in a mutually beneficial manner.

30) The Financial Literacy Week 2019 will be observed from 3 June to 7 June. It is an annual initiative by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to promote awareness on key topics through a focused campaign. Key Highlights- The theme of Financial Literacy Week 2019 is ‘Farmers’ which focuses on how they can benefit by being a part of the formal banking system. Objective: The aim of initiative is to create awareness about financial products and services, good financial practices, going digital and consumer protection. During the Financial Literacy week, the messages disseminated will be focussed on Responsible Borrowing & Agricultural Finance. Measures: RBI’s Financial Education Initiative includes- The FAME (Financial Awareness Messages) booklet– which provides basic financial literacy messages for information of general public. Tailored financial literacy content developed by RBI which can be used by the trainers in financial literacy programmes primarily for five target groups namely Farmers, Small entrepreneurs, School children, Self Help Groups (SHG) and Senior Citizens. RBI has designed Audio visuals on “Basic Financial Literacy“, “Unified Payments Interface” (UPI) and “Going Digital” for the benefit of general public on topics relating to Financial Literacy. Both Rural and Urban banks are advised to display the posters and content in their branches, Financial Literacy Centers, ATMs and websites. During month of June, RBI will also undertake a centralized mass media campaign on Doordarshan and All India Radio (AIR) to disseminate essential financial awareness messages to farmers via these mediums. Significance: With 60% of country’s population employed in agriculture, growth in agriculture becomes necessary for overall economic growth and finance act an essential enabler for the same. Thus, RBI is actively involved in formulating policies that enhances flow of credit to farming community.

31) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) organized a two-day orientation workshop for Population Research Centres (PRCs) to highlight various features of Health Ministry’s flagship schemes and for their concurrent monitoring. About Population Research Centres- Background: Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) has established the network of 18 PRCs spread over 17 major States and Union Territories (UTs). The scheme started with establishment of 2 PRCs in 1958 at Delhi and Kerala. During 1999 it was and expanded to 18 PRCs with latest inclusion of PRC, Sagar. Out of these, 12 are attached to various Universities and 6 are in research institutions of national repute. Administration: They are autonomous in nature and administratively under the control of their host University/Institutions. Objective: PRCs were established to undertake research projects relating to demographic research and biological studies & qualitative aspect of population control, family planning. The aim of Health Ministry was to gainfully utilize feedback from these research studies and then plan or formulate strategies and policy interventions of ongoing schemes. Mandate: Their mandate is to provide critical research based inputs related to the Health and Family Welfare programs and policies at the national and state levels. Milestone: Since its inception to present date PRCs have completed more than 3600 research studies and have published more than 110 research papers in prestigious international journals. Key Highlights of Workshop- Need: The workshop is important as there is an urgent need for PRCs to reinvent themselves to become more relevant and PRCs should also integrate with institute they are anchored in for more thoughtful insights of local and current issues to enrich their research. At the event, Ms. Preeti Sudan, Secretary (HFW) released Rural Health Statistics (2017-18) and a Compendium of Studies Conducted by PRCS (2017-18). Importance: The flagship program of Health Ministry, Ayushman Bharat has two components- Health and Wellness Centres (HWCs) for Comprehensive Primary Health Care and Pradhan Mantri Jan ArogyaYojana (PMJAY) for secondary and tertiary Health care, both seeks to deliver Health Care services closer to where people live in rural and urban areas. Thus PRCs can provide critical research based inputs to strengthen these initiatives further.

32) The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved Rs.3000 monthly pension scheme for small retail traders and shopkeepers after they attain the age of 60 years. Salient Features of Scheme- About: Under the scheme all small shopkeepers, retail traders and self-employed persons are assured a minimum of Rs.3,000 monthly pension after attaining 60 years of 60 years. Beneficiary: The new pension scheme that offers pension coverage to the trading community will cover 3 crore small retail traders and shop keepers. Eligibility: All small shopkeepers, self-employed persons and retail traders aged between 18-40 years and with Goods and Service Tax (GST) turnover below Rs.1.5 crore can enrol for pension scheme. Enrollment: The scheme is based on self-declaration as no documents are required except bank account and Aadhaar Card. Also, the interested persons can enrol themselves via more than 3,25,000 Common Service Centres (CSC) spread across India. Government Contribution: The Central Government will make matching contribution (same amount as subscriber contribution) i.e. equal amount as subsidy into subscriber’s pension account every month. Significance: Since ages India has a rich tradition of trade and commerce and our traders make a strong contribution to India’s economic growth. Therefore, cabinet decision will benefit the trading community. This pension scheme is a part of Prime Minister’s vision to provide a robust architecture of universal social security.

33) The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recommended ‘complete’ ban on Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS), including e-cigarettes. The recommendation is based on currently available scientific evidence. On occasion of World Tobacco Day which was observed on 31 May, ICMR released a white paper (an authoritative report or guide that informs readers about an issue) about harmful effects of ENDS and e-cigarettes. Key Findings of ICMR’s White Paper- Background: In 2018 Centre government issued an advisory recommending a ban on sale of e-cigarettes in India. Later a committee headed by K Srinath Reddy of Public Health Foundation of India (PHAI) was constituted which included experts from ICMR, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, AII India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh. The committee was tasked to analyse more than 300 research articles from all over the world and prepared the white paper. Addictive: It noted that e-cigarettes and other such devices contained not only nicotine solution, that was highly addictive, but also harmful ingredients like flavoring agents and vaporisers. Marketing: It found that availability of flavour variants and attractive designs are adding to allure of devices, and globally there was an increasing trend of e-cigarettes consumption among youth and adolescents. There are more than 460 different e-cigarette brands with varied configuration of nicotine delivery that come in over 7,700 flavours. Worry: Use of ENDS or e-cigarettes can open a gateway for new tobacco addiction among the masses as on the balance, these have a negative impact on public health. Effect on Health: Prolonged use of ENDS or e-cigarettes has documented adverse impact on humans which includes DNA damage, respiratory/cardiovascular/ neurological Disorders, carcinogenic/cellular/molecular/immunological Toxicity and even have adverse effects on fetal development and pregnancy. It rejected argument that e-cigarettes could help smokers quit tobacco consumption. Although such benefits of e-cigarettes consumption have not been firmly established but these devices could encourage non-smokers to get addicted to tobacco. Youth: With large number of e-cigarette brands promoting thousands of flavors, the e-cigarette are fast becoming a trend among youngsters. Research has found that youths using e-cigarettes (or other such devices) are more likely to use regular cigarettes in later period. The exposure to ENDS increases the likelihood to experiment with regular products and increase intention to indulge in cigarette smoking. Way Forward- These scientific and research data given in the white paper could help the government to formulate necessary policies on ENDS or e-cigarettes and other such devices.

34) The Centre has created a new Ministry called ‘Jal Shakti’ by merger of Ministries of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation along with Drinking Water and Sanitation. The move will bring all aspects of water management and regulation under one department. About Jal Ministry- Background: In first Modi government (2014-2019) the project to clean Ganga was moved from Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) to Ministry of Water Resources. Later, with a greater push and larger monetary allocation, the Namami Gange project was launched in June 2014. During the 17th Lok Sabha election campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to create an integrated ministry to deal with water related isuues. Minister: The Jal ministry will be headed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Gajendra Singh Shekhawat while Ram Lal Kataria will be the minister of state. Ambit: As promised in BJP’s vision document in run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the ‘Nal se Jal’ scheme to provide piped drinking water to every household will be a component of government’s Jal Jivan Mission. The ministry will roll out government’s ambitious plans to provide piped water connections to every household in India by 2024. It will also address international and inter-states water disputes and the Namami Gange project which is the flagship initiative to clean the River Ganga, its tributaries and sub-tributaries. The Jal Ministry’s priority will be to provide clean drinking water to everyone.

35) The Centre has created a new Ministry called ‘Jal Shakti’ by merger of Ministries of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation along with Drinking Water and Sanitation. The move will bring all aspects of water management and regulation under one department. About Jal Ministry- Background: In first Modi government (2014-2019) the project to clean Ganga was moved from Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) to Ministry of Water Resources. Later, with a greater push and larger monetary allocation, the Namami Gange project was launched in June 2014. During the 17th Lok Sabha election campaign, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised to create an integrated ministry to deal with water related isuues. Minister: The Jal ministry will be headed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Gajendra Singh Shekhawat while Ram Lal Kataria will be the minister of state. Ambit: As promised in BJP’s vision document in run-up to the 2019 Lok Sabha elections, the ‘Nal se Jal’ scheme to provide piped drinking water to every household will be a component of government’s Jal Jivan Mission. The ministry will roll out government’s ambitious plans to provide piped water connections to every household in India by 2024. It will also address international and inter-states water disputes and the Namami Gange project which is the flagship initiative to clean the River Ganga, its tributaries and sub-tributaries. The Jal Ministry’s priority will be to provide clean drinking water to everyone.

36) The World Health Organisation (WHO) awarded Rajasthan government’s Medical & Health Department its Tobacco Control Award for year 2019 in recognition of Rajasthan’s achievements in the field of tobacco control. Key Highlights- The Award was conferred by WHO on occasion of World No Tobacco Day (celebrated on 31 May 2019) at a function in New Delhi. Background: Every year WHO recognizes various individuals and institutions worldwide and in each of six WHO regions for their accomplishments in area of tobacco control. For this year’s prestigious award WHO selected total 33 institutions and individuals across world including five organisations from the South-East Asian (SEA) region viz. India, Thailand and Indonesia. The two institutes selected from India (in SEA region) includes Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute (in New Delhi) and Rajasthan’s Health Department. Rajathan’s Medical and Health Department was the only government body in country which was awarded for its tobacco-free initiatives. Rajasthan’s Tobacco Campaigns: During year 2018-19, Rajasthan’s Medical & Health Department launched several campaigns against tobacco consumption at places like schools, colleges, police stations and government offices. Pledge Initiative: On 30 January 2019 which marks the Martyrs’ Day (or Sarvodaya Day), state government undertook tobacco-free initiatives in which 1.13 crore people took pledge against tobacco consumption at events held in 1.56 lakh government institutions and people were also made aware about ill-effects of tobacco consumption. Tobacco Free Premises Initiative: Health Department in coordination with other departments has developed tobacco-free premises near anganwadi centres, educational institutions and health facilities to ensure that no tobacco product is sold within 100 yards of these places. Way Ahead: As Department’s efforts for tobacco control is now acknowledged internationally thus State government must affirm that it would keep striving to accomplish the goal of a “healthy Rajasthan”.

37) The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Flight Lieutenant Mohana Singh became first ever woman pilot to fly by day on Hawk advanced jet aircraft. About Fight Lt. Mohana Singh- To achieve this mile stone of being fully operational on the Hawk Jets she completed an exhausting 4 Aircraft combat sortie (a combat mission of an individual aircraft) and landed at Air Force station, Kalaikunda , West Bengal, which was the last syllabus sortie. She achieved this feat after rigorous training involving Air-to-Ground and Air-to-Air combat missions. Achievements: She has a total 500 hours of incident-free flying out of which 380 hours are on Hawk Mk 132 jet. She has participated in various Air Force level flying exercises and has undertaken many practice missions including firing of guns, rockets and dropping high calibre bombs. Background: In June 2016 three women officers including Mohana Singh, Bhawana Kanth and Avani Chaturvadi became first batch of women pilots to join fighter stream of Indian Air Force (IAF). Later in early May 2019 Flight Lt Bhawana Kanth also had created history by becoming first daytime woman fighter pilot to fly a MiG-21 Bison.

38) Admiral Karambir Singh assumes charge as the new Chief of Indian Navy. With this appointment he now becomes 24th Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS). Key Highlights: He took charge from outgoing Admiral Sunil Lanba, who stepped down upon his superannuation on 31 May 2019. Term: The tenure of a Service Chief is three years or 62 years of age, whichever is earlier. Conflict: His appointment super ceded the senior officer Vice Adm. Bimal Verma who has approached the Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) questioning the appointment. The Army and Air Force too will see a change of guard at the end of 2019 as The Army Gen. Rawat and the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa set to retire in December 2019 and in October 2019 respectively. About Admiral Karambir Singh- He his long and distinguished service in Indian Navy spans over period of 39 years during which he has served in a variety of Command, Staff and Instructional appointments. He has commanded several Indian Coast Guard Ships (ICGS) Chandbibi, Missile Corvette Indian Navy Ship (INS) Vijaydurg and two Guided Missile Destroyers, INS Delhi and INS Rana. He has served as member of Aircrew Instrument Rating and Categorisation Board (AIRCATS) and also as Flag Officer Commanding Maharashtra and Gujarat Naval Area (FOMAG). He is the most senior naval aviator and is the first helicopter pilot of the Indian Navy to become the Chief of the Naval Staff. He was the Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief (FOC-in-C) of Eastern Naval Command, which is headquartered in Visakhapatnam just before his appointment as CNS.