INTERNATIONAL
Trump bans 7 nations from entering US
American President Donald Trump has signed an executive order on January 27,2017 to temporarily ban visas for refugees for refugees belonging to seven Muslim majority countries namely Iraq, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria and Yemen. The decision aims at protecting United States from the entry of foreign terrorists to keep the Nation safe. The ban is not aimed at restricting Muslim countries from entering US.
Dragon Ball Z Goku to be 2020 Olympics ambassador
Dragon Ball Z Son Goku has selected as the ambassador of the 2020 Olympics to be held in Tokyo, according to reports in Konbini. It has been in the knowing that the next Olympic Games will be held in Japan and the host country has found a good opportunity to show off its culture. Goku is a world renowned character a the Olympic Committee has decided that he is well worth investing in at the biggest sporting event in the world.
India ranks sixth on eight great power sin 2017
India is ranked at the sixth sport, behind China and Japan, in a list of eight great powers for the year 2017 by a leading American foreign policy magazine which is topped by the U.S. Where as China and Japan are at tie for being on the second spot. Russia (fourth) and Germany (fifth) are the other two countries ahead on the India. Iran is ranked seventh and Israel is on the eighth spot.
Apple named most innovative company 2016
Boston Consulting Group (BCG) has named technology giant Apple as the most innovative Company in 2016 in its annual list of the world’s 50 “Most Innovative Companies”. Inter-net search giant Google ranked second, Amazon ranked fifth, Facebook ranked ninth and IBM are BCG’s tenth most innovative company
2016 was the hottest year ever recorded – UN
The UN weather agency has said that world witnessed the hottest year on record in 2016, surpassing the exceptionally high temperatures of 2015. The globally average temperature in 2016 was about 1.1 degree celsius higher than the pre-industrial period, according to a consolidated analysis by the World Meteorological Organisation
Norway to become first country to switch off FM radio
Norway will shut down FM radio in the country beginning in 2017, Radio-no-reports. The Norwegian Ministry of Culture finalized a shift date this week, making it the first country to do away with FM radio entirely. The country plans to transition to Digital Audio Broadcasting (DAB) as a national standard.
Donald Trump names Dan Coats as US intelligence Chief
Donald Trump is expected to name retired Indiana Senator Dan Coats to replace James Clapper as Director of National Intelligence. Mr. Coats is a long – time Republican member of congress, having served in the House through the 1980s, the Senate the 1990s, and as US ambassador to Germany during from 2001 to 2005. He returned to the Senate to serve from 2011 to through 2017.
2017 International Year of sustainable Tourism for Development – UN
The United Nations (UN) declared 2017 as the International year of sustainable Tourism for Development as the resolution recognizes the importance of International Tourism. This in order to foster better understanding among peoples everywhere, in leading to a greater awareness of the rich heritage of various civilizations and in bringing about a better appreciation of the inherent values of different cultures, thereby contributing to the strengthening of peace in the world.
Antonio Guterres takes Charge as UN Secretary- General
Former Portuguese Prime Minister Antonio Guterres has been sworn in as Secretary – General of the United Nations, as the ninth UN Chief. Antonio Guterres was formally appointed to the post by the UN General Assembly on October 14, 2016. Guterres took over for a five-year term that can be renewed by member states for an additional five years. He succeeded Banki-moon.
China announces ban on ivory trade by end of 2017
China says it will ban all domestic ivory trade ivory market in a move wildlife conservationists believe will help curb elephant poaching in Africa. China is one of the biggest global markets for ivory, where it is used a precious material in Jewelry, furniture, sometimes even in Chinese medicine.
INDIA AND WORLD
Bengaluru is Most Dynamic City in the World
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has endorsed a ranking of Bengaluru City as the most dynamic city in the World, beating United States Silicon Valley. Hyderabad secured the fifth place in the list, a place above London, Pune (13) rose above New York and Paris, Chennai (18) beat San Francisco, Delhi (23) and Mumbai (25) secured a position much above Los Angeles and Stockholm.
India Ranked 78th in Global Passport Index
India Ranked low at 78th position on the recently released Global Passport Index 2017 with a visa-free score of 46. Ranking is based on the number of nations their citizens can visit without a visa or an arrival. Germany ranked No.1 in 2017 Passport Index with a visa-free score of 157 followed by Singapore with visa-free score of 156.
India slips to 92nd rank on global talent competitiveness Index
Last year, India came in at the 89th position on the index. India has slipped 3 places to 92nd rank on the Global index of talent competitiveness that measures how countries grow, attract and retain talent, a list topped Switzerland. India’s ranking is worst among the five BRICS countries. While Brazil 81st, Russia Federation was 56th, China was 54th, South Africa at 67th position
India, Pak exchange lists of nuclear sites
The agreement on the prohibition of Attack against Nuclear Installations between India and Pakistan was signed on December 31. Both countries also exchanged lists of nationals (including civilian prisoners and fishermen) of each country lodged in Jails of the other one. This is the 26th consecutive exchange of such lists between the two countries, the first one having taken place on January 1, 1992.
NATIONAL
India post releases stamp cover on Sindhu, sakshi and Dipa
The Indian Postal Department released a special stamp cover featuring Olympic Medalists PV. Sindhu, Sakshi Malik and gymnast Dipa Karmakar in Agartala on 21st January 2017. The special cover is titled “Golden girls of India- pride of Nation” one of the images on the cover also features Dipa’s coach Bishweshwar Nandi, who was awarded the Dronacharya Award.
Nation Pays Homage to Netaji on his 120th Birth Anniversary
Today is the 120th Birth Anniversary of an eminent Indian freedom fighter Subhash Chandra Bose who sacrificed his life for India’s independence. This legendary leader is familiar to Indians and the world as well for his radical actions against the colonial rule. So, the nation is paying tributes to Netaji on his birth anniversary by remembering his accomplishments.
India’s First Madame Tussauds Museum in Delhi
London’s Madame Tussauds Museum branch in Delhi unveiled its first wax statue Amitabh Bachchan that stole the hearts of millions. Guests present at the screening put their selfie sticks to good use by clicking pictures with wax models of Big B and Lady Gaga. PM Narendra Modi and “Master Blaster” Sachin Tendulkar, who have already received a great response at the Madame Tussauds in London, will be featured at the Delhi Museum as well.
PM Narendra Modi announces Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Pravasi Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PKVY), as skill development program targeted at Indian youth seeking overseas employment. PKVY will provide training and certify Indians who are seeking overseas employment in selected sectors in line with International Standards.
Google introduces tools for small business in India
In an effort to tap into the 51 million strong and small, medium businesses in India, online search major Google today launched a brand new tool My Business. Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google who is in the capital for a day made the announcement. He said that the brand new tool has been introduced in India and it would be taken to other countries from here.
NPL syncs a Leap Second with Indian Time
An atomic clock at National Physical Laboratory (NPL) in New Delhi added a “leap second” (extra one second) to the Indian Standard Time (IST) at 5:29:59 hours on 1st January 2017 to synchronize with the Earth’s rotational clock. The clock was programmed to add an extra second to the year 2017 in order to compensate for a slow down in the Earth’s rotation.
First Laser Technology-Based Check-Post In India
Gujarat CM. Vijay Rupani inaugurating India’s very first laser technology- based advanced Automatic Vehicle Monitoring System (AVMS) equipped inter state RTO check post at Shamlaji of Aravalli District near Gujarat-Rajasthan border. Carrying a heavy cost of Rs.4.72 crore, the check post comes equipped with advanced ray technology. It’s state-of-the-art automatic system is capable of checking overload vehicles and fining them.
Pointers on PM’s Speech
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced two housing schemes, tax incentives for small traders, interest rebate for farmers and monetary assistance for pregnant women. In a big relief to house buyers, New schemes under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana were announced. Now get 4% interest relief on home loan up to 9 lakh rupees. And 3% cut for home loan up to 12 lakh rupees.
STATES
Goa to be first state to offer online postal ballots
The Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Syed Nasim Zaidi on 24 January said that the Goa will become the first state that will opt for the electronic transmission of postal ballot in the Assembly elections. The returning officers will transfer the postal ballots to service voters by electronic means. So, the voters can download it, fill it and sent it via-e-mail to returning officer. This would be the first in the region and around the globe
TN assembly Unanimously passes Jallikattu Bill
The Tamil Nadu assembly on 23 January, 2017 passed a bill that replaces an Ordinance and realizes Jallikattu, the bull taming sport, in the state. The Bill was earlies was tabled in the assembly for approval. Tamil Nadu Governor Ch. Vidyasagar Rao on Saturday (23, Jan) approved the Ordinance issued by the State Government revoking ban on Jallikattu. So, the Bill passed Unanimously in TN Assembly.
National Anthem in Gujarat set New World Record
More than 3.5 lakh people in Gujarat’s Rajkot district set a new world record by singing the national anthem at the event. The occasion was installation of idol of goddess Khodiyar at a newly built Khodal Dham Temple in the town, Over 3.5 lakh people sang the anthem together at the idol installation ritual in the presence of observers from Guinness World Records.
Dharamshala declared as second capital of Himachal Pradesh
The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh Virbhadra Singh has declared Dharamshala the second capital of the state. Situated in the snow-capped Dhauladhar range. Dharamshala will serve as the state’s winter capital, Singh said that the city fully deserved the status because of its history and significance.
Bengal’s Sitalpati gets UNESCO recognition
“Sitalpati” Cooch Behar district West Bengal has been recognized as an ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ by the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO). Weaving sitalpati mats is an age-old cultural tradition of cooch Behar region. It consists of weaving together the green cane slips of the Murat plants, indigenous to the region. Through this the State Govt is acting as a facilitator between the artistes and their crafts.
Kozhikode becomes 1st Elderly-Friendly Corporation in Kerala
Kozhikode Corporation was declared as the first Elderly-Friendly corporation in Kerala. The Kozhikode corporation, state Govt has planned to set up senior citizen’s club, Day care centers as a part of Vayomithram project for the elderly friendly status, the corporation has begun to collect basic details of all the senior citizens in the city through its 543 Anganwadi centers.
TN Govt launched mobile app “Pinakini” for Tourism
For the benefit of both domestic and international tourists, Tamil Nadu Tourism Department has launched a mobile app “Pinakini” with information on tourism in Tamil Nadu with audio facilities. The app in two languages Tamil and English which covers world heritage tourist sites like Mamallapuram,Thanjavur Big Temple, Gangaikondacholapuram and Darasuram.
Kerala launched its First Solar Powered Boat Aditya
The country’s first solar ferry boat “Aditya” was launched in the 2.5 km Vaikom-Tavanakkadava sector on 12th January 2017 to replace the existing fleet of diesel boats with solar- powered ones. The Chief Minister of Kerala, Pinarayi Vijayan has inaugurated the first “Solar-Powered Boat” of the state water transport department, Aditya on January 12, 2017 at a function held in Vaikom Boat Jetty in Kerala. Piyush Goyal, Minister of state with independent charge for New & Renewable Energy, Solar Powered boat was the Chief Guest.
Telangana state celebrated 6 days International Kites Festival from 12th of January
Hyderabad and two other Telangana districts participated in this second International Kite Festival. Telangana Tourism conducted this festival to create awareness on education and empowerment of girl children. From 17 countries with 70 international and 40 national kite flyers participated and a special night-flying event is also planned at People’s Plaza as a per-festival event.
PM Modi inaugurates Nobel Prize exhibition in Gujarat
‘The Nobel Prize: Ideas Changing the World’ a free exhibition was inaugurated by prime minister Narendra Modi at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. It exhibited the artifacts of Alfred Nobel and several Nobel Laureates. This exhibition is open till 13th February of 2017.
Haryana to set up “Prarambh School for Teachers Education”
Haryana has started state level “Prarambh School For Teachers Education. It would be set up at village Silani in district Jhajjar over an area of 10 acres. Mr. Manohar Lal Haryana Chief Minister presided over the first meeting of the Governing Body of Prarambh School For Teachers Education.
Ninth edition of Jaipur International Film Festival
The ninth edition of Jaipur International Film Festival (JIFF) began in Jaipur in the presence of renowned filmmakers. This edition of the festival will witness participation by 250 filmmakers and artists. Jaipur International Film Festival (JIFF) became expanding establishing in organizing world film festival every year in Rajasthan.
Island Tourism Festival 2017 begins in Andaman and Nicobar
The Island Tourism Festival was begun on 6 January at port Blair in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Lieutenant Governor Jagdish Mukhi was inaugurated the Mega Event at ITF Ground. During the 10-day event, performances by the cultural troupes from main land will help the Islands renew their cultural ties with mainland India.
Govt launches Swachh Bharat Survekshan 2017 in 500 cities
Union Ministry of Urban Development, headed by M. Venkaiah Naidu, launched Swachh Survekshan 2017 to evaluate and rank 500 cities across the country on cleanliness. The cities surveyed under this will have a population of 1 lakh and above. It will be conducted by Quality Council of India (QCI) under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in order to encourage competition to improve sanitation.
Delhi registers India’s highest per capita income
National capital Delhi has registered the highest per capita income among all states and union territories of the country, during 2015-16 at about Rs.2,80,000. Delhi’s per capita income is over three times the national average (Rs.93,293). It is followed by Chandigarh and Sikkim with per capita incomes of Rs.2,42,386 and Rs. 2,27,465 respectively.
A.P Govt launches NTR Arogya Raksha Scheme
Andhra Pradesh Government has launched NTR Arogya Raksha Scheme. It is intended to provide health insurance cover to every individual in a family on payment of a monthly premium of Rs.100 per head of a year. It was launched by AP’s CM N. Chandrababu Naidu in Vijayawada. The new health scheme offering medical insurance to those who were not covered under any of the existing health schemes of the state government.
PM Modi inaugurate Indian Science Congress at Tirupati
Tomorrow’s experts will come from investments we make today in our people and infrastructure. Science must meet the rising aspirations of our people. The Nation will always be grateful to the scientists who have worked tirelessly to empower our society. By 2030 India will be among the top three countries in Science & Technology. The brightest and best in every corner of India should have the opportunity to excel in Science.
Mori in Andhra Pradesh gets Smart Digital Village tag
Mori, a tiny village under the Sakhinetipalli mandal in East Godavari district of Andhra Pradesh now sealed its place on India’s digital map by transforming completely into a Smart Digital Village, in every sense of the term. All the 1189 households in the village with a population of 4500 became fully digital as CM.N. Chandrababu Naidu finally launched the AP Fibre Net Project that will provide internet at a speed of 150 mbps, WiFi, a telephone connection and 250 cable television channels for a total of price of Rs. Rs.149 per month.
Sikkim became India’s First Fully Organic State in 2016
Sikkim has become India’s first fully organic state by converting around 75,000 hectares of agricultural land in sustainable cultivation. We have achieved fully-organic status in the end of December. PM Narendra Modi will formally announce that at a sustainable agricultural conference in Gangtok on 18 January, Sikkim Organic Mission’s executive director Dr. Anbalagan told it.
CONFERENCES
PM Modi Inaugurated Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors Summit 2017
8th Vibrant Gujarat Global Investors Summit 2017 inaugurated by PM Narendra Modi at Gandhinagar Various Countries Presidents, Prime Ministers, Ministers deputy Prime Ministers and CEOs of Fortune 500 Companies Participated in this Summit.
The 20th National Conference on e-Governance began in Visakhapatnam
The 20th National Conference on e-Governance began in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The theme of this years conference is “Internet of Things and e-Governance” and newly evolving areas of e-Governance would be discussed ever five plenary sessions.
International Conference on Yoga for Diabetes
On 4 January 2017, International Conference on “Yoga for Diabetes” was Organised at New Delhi. The three day conference was inaugurated by Minister of State for Ayush, Shripad Yesso Naik. The Conference aims to generate discussions on the role of Yoga in the prevention and management of Diabetes and to draw up a road map to be adopted for the control of Diabetes through Yoga.
14th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas convention begins in Bengaluru
The 14th Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) convention began in Bengaluru on 7th January. The three-day event kick started with youth PBD, the theme of which is “Role of Diaspora Youth” in the Transformation of India. The PBD convention is a very important platform for engagement of the central and state governments with the Overseas Indian Community. PM. Modi inaugurated PBD with the Chief guest of the event, PM of Portugal Dr. Antonio Costa.
AWARDS AND HONOURS
Donald Trump Sworn in as 45th us President
Donald Trump has taken over as the 45th President of the United States, putting Republicans in control of the White House for the first time in eight years. Mr. Trump was sworn in by Chief Justice John Roberts, reciting the 35-word oath with his hand placed upon two Bibles, one used by his family and the an other in former President Abraham Lincoln’s inauguration. He reigns the power from Barack Obama.
Filmfare Awards 2017: Dangal, Aamir Khan, Alia Bhatt bag top honours
Aamir Khan and Alia Bhatt bagged the Best Actor and Best Actress in a leading Role respectively and ‘Dangal’ swept away three of the top four awards at the 62nd Jio-Filmfare Awards 2017. The ceremony was held on saturday (14-1-2017) night in Worli Mumbai and was hosted by Karan Johar, Shah Rukh Khan and Kapil Sharma. After a long span of 19 years, all three Khans competed for the Best Actor category this time and Aamir, with his “Dangal” gained the upper hand.
Amitabh Bachchan get US Embassy award for fighting TB
India’s most lovable and legendary actor of Bollywood was honored by US Embassy award. US Ambassador to India Richard R. Verma awarded megastar of India, Amitabh Bachchan for his invaluable contributions to US-India partnership on tuberculosis.
Shradha, Ghyan Sham Kumar Devansh Chosen for 2016 Jnanpith Awards
Two new Hindi writers Shradha, Ghyansham Kumar Devansh have been Chosen for Bharatiya Jnanpith Navlekhan Award for the year -2016. Shradha was chosen for her story “Hawa Mein Phad Phadati Chitti” and Devansh for his poem “Akash Mein Deh”. They were unanimously chosen by a selection panel chaired by eminent poet Vishnu Nagar.
British – Indian Professor receives “Knighthood” from Queen
Shankar Balasubramanian, an Indian – Origin British Professor of Chemistry, has received a Knighthood from Queen Elizabeth-II for his contribution to the field of science and medicine. Herchel Smith Professor of Medicinal Chemistry at Cambridge University, has been recognized for his work as a co-inventor of “Next Generation DNA” sequencing, described as the most transformational advance in biology and medicine for decades. His work has spawned an entirely new, discipline of “Bioinformatics”.
SPORTS AND GAMES
Former CAG Chief Vinod Rai appointed as BCCI Chief
The Supreme Court on 30 January appointed a committee of four administrators headed by former Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) Vinod Rai to manage the affairs of World’s richest cricket body BCCI after its president and other top office bearers were barred from cricket administration. Rai as BCCI Chief, along with noted historian Ramachandra Guha and IDFC MD & CEO Vikram Limaye as administrator of the sport body.
Serena Williams wins Australian Open for 23rd Grand Slam
Serena Williams rewrote history on 28 January to surpass Steffi Graf and capture a record 23rd grand slam title as well as the World No-1 rankings by beating her sister Venus Williams in the Australian Open final. Serena, 35, who equalled Graf’s mark of 22 at Wimbledon last year, now stands just one behind the all time 24 won by Margaret, who was in the president’s box to witness her feat.
Roger Federer Wins Australian Open
Remarkable Roger Federer own his 18th Grand Slam title by beating Rafael Nadal in a battle royal at the Australian Open. In front of an adoring crowd Down Under, the 35- year old Swiss superstar become the second oldest man to win a major title by beating his old foe 6-4,, 3-6, 6-1, 3-6, 6-3 in three hours and 38 minutes.
Usain Bolt loses an Olympic Gold Medal
Usain Bolt has been stripped of one of his nine Olympic gold medals because of a doping offence committed by his teammate Nesta Carter. The Jamaican no longer owns the hallowed “Tripple Tripple” of Olympic sprint titles after being told to hand back the 100 m relay gold medal won at Beijing 2008 alongside Carter. Bolt has realized this was a possibility after if emerged last June that carter had retrospectively failed a drugs test from the Beijing Games nine years ago.
Gujarat Beat Mumbai by 5 Wickets To Win Ranji Trophy
Gujarat lifted the Ranji Trophy title for the first time by beating 41-time champions Mumbai by 5 Wickets in Indore on Saturday (14-1-2017). Chasing a daunting 312 run target, Gujarat Skipper Parthiv Patel (143) led from the front with a fluent century. He was supported by Manpreet Juneja, who scored 54 runs. Gujarat recorded the highest-ever run chase in Ranji Trophy history with the win, and became the 17th team in the country to get their hands on the trophy.
Ranieri named as FIFA coach of the year 2016
Leicester city boss Claudio Ranieri has been named as the Coach of the year at the FiFA Foot ball awards in Zurich. The Italian was up against Fernando Santos, who led Portugal to Euro 2016 glory in the summer, and Zinedine Zidane, who guided Real Madrid to the Champions League title last season. Ranieri was presented with the award by Diego Maradona.
Virat Kohli Named ODI, T-20 captain
Virat Kohli has been appointed the captain for team India’s T-20 internationals and ODIS. The announcement was made after the selection committee meeting in Mumbai. Chief selector MSK. Prasad added that even though MS Dhoni has stepped down as the captain of these formats. He will still be a part of the limited overs team.
Satish Kumar Clinches Sixth consecutive gold
Rio Olympian Sivalingam Sathish Kumar from Railways won the Gold, for the sixth consecutive year, in the mens 69th men’s and 32nd women’s senior National Weightlifting Championship, at the Ponjesly College of Engineering. Sathish Kumar lifted a total of 317 kg (141-snatch and 176 – clean & Jerk) while Ajay Singh from services won the gold in the clean & Jerk category by lifting 177 kg and 137 kg in the snatch category and finished second with a total of 314 kg.
Nadal wins Mubadala Tennis Championships
Spanish tennis veteran Rafael Nadal defeated Belgian David Goffin 6-4, 7-6 to win the Mubadala World Tennis Champion Ships- 2016 in Abu Dhabi. Nadal received his trophy from Sheikh Nahyan bin zayed al Nahyan, Chairman of Abu Dhabi sports council.
ECONOMY
India GDP growth to slow to 7.1% in FY 17
India’s economic growth is likely to decelerate to 7.1% from 7.6 the previous year, chiefly due to an industrial slowdown, the government said on January 6th sidestepping the possible impact of demonetization. Per capita net national income during 2016-17 estimated to be Rs.1,03,077, rise of 10.4% as compared to Rs. 93,293 during 2015-16 with the growth rate of 7.6%.
NRIs can exchange defunct notes up to June 30: RBI
The Reserve Bank of India has allowed non-resident Indians (NRIs) to exchange defunctioned Rs.500 and Rs.1000 notes till June 30, 2017. This facility will be available through RBI offices in Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Kolkata, Nagpur. Resident Indian citizens who failed to deposit old notes and were abroad between November 9 and December 30, 2016 can avail themselves of this facility up to March 31st, 2017.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Two NASA missions to study early Solar system
NASA has announced two ambitious missions that will look towards asteroids to unlock some of the secrets of the formation of the solar system. The new Discovery missions Lucy and Psyche are expected to launch early next decade. These missions will study such objects which are relics left over from the early beginnings of the solar system, providing new clues as to how planets and other bodies formed.
Astronomers discover powerful cosmic double Whammy
Astronomers have discovered a cosmic one-two- punch unlike any ever seen before. Two of the most powerful phenomena in the Universe, A supermassive black hole, and the collision of giant galaxy clusters, have combined to create a stupendous cosmic particle accelerator. This double Whammy is found in a pair of colliding galaxy clusters called Abell 3411 and Abell 3412 located about two billion light years from earth.
Agni-IV Missile Successfully test fired
The flight- trial of India’s long range, strategic ballistic missile, Agni-IV, on Monday from a road – mobile launcher on Abdul Kalam Island, off odisha coast, was a grand success. Agni-IV is a two stage, surface to surface missile that can travel 4,000 km and can carry a nuclear warhead weighing one tonne. Agni-V has a range more than 5000 km. The Strategic Forces Command of the Army fired the Agni – IV.
PERSONS IN NEWS
A. APPOINTMENTS
President appoints Banwarilal as Governor of Meghalaya
President Pranab Mukherjee has given Governor of Assam Banwarilal purohit additional charge of Meghalaya. There appointments come after President accepted the resignation of V. Shanmuganathan, as Governor of Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh. President also gave Governor of Nagaland PB Acharya additional charge of Arunachal Pradesh. Banwarilal purohit was appointed as the Governor of Assam by President in August 2016.
A.K. Verma Appointed as New CBI Chief
Delhi Police Commissioner Alok Kumar Verma was appointed as director of CBI on 19January 2017. Verma’s name was cleared by a three-member selection panel headed by PM Narendra Modi and Comprising Chief Justice of India J.S. Kehar and Congress leader in Lok Sabha, Mallikharjuna Kharge as members. At present Gujarat-Cadre IPS officer Rakesh Asthana is the acting director of CBI
RBI Appoints Surekha Marandi as executive director
The Reserve bank of India has appointed Surekha Marandi as its Executive Director (ED) in place of U.S Paliwal, who retired on December 31, 2016. She has also served as on the Boards of United Bank and Bank of Baroda. Prior to being promoted as ED, Marandi was Principal Chief General Manager and Chief Vigilance Officer in the Reserve Bank of India.
Justice Jagadish Singh Kehar sworn is an CJI
Justice Jagadish Singh Kehar was sworn in as the Chief Justice of India on 4th January 2017 by President Pranab Mukherjee. He took his oath at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in Delhi. Kehar succeeded T.S. Thakur as the 44th Chief Justice of India (CJI). Justice Thakur as the 44th Chief Justice of India (CJI). Justice Thakur had formally recommended Justice Khehar;s name for the post on December 6. He will serve as the 44th CJI for eight months till he retires on August 27.
David R Syiemlieh appointed as new UPSC Chairman
President Pranab Mukherjee on 2 January 2017 appointed professor David R Syiemlieh as the Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). Syiemlieh will take over the position with effect from 4 January 2017 till completion of his term as member on January 21, 2018. Syiemlieh, who is serving as the Member of UPSC, was succeeded Alka Sirohi, a former IAS officer of the Madhya Pradesh Cadre.
Sunil Lanba appointed as Chairman of Chiefs of Staff Committee
Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lamba took over the boton of the Chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (CoSC) from outgoing IAF Chief Marshal Arup Raha at a ceremony on thursday. 58 year-old Lanba, a specialist in Navigation and direction, will have the full three – year tenure as the Navy Chief. He was succeeded Admiral R.K.Dhowan who retired.
Birender Singh Dhanoa takes charge as new Air Force Chief
Air marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa took charge as the next Air Force Chief.Arup Raha retired from Indian Air Force Chief Position on saturday. AIR Force Chief Arup Raha inspected guard of honour on his last day in office. Prior to this appointment Birender was Vice-Chief of IAF.
Bipin Rawat takes over as Army Chief
General Bipin Rawat has taken charge as the new “Chief of Army Staff”. General Rawat has tremendous hands on experience of serving in combat areas, and various functional levels in the Indian Army over the last three decades. He has handled various operational responsibilities in many areas, including along the LOC with Pakistan, the LAC with China and in the North-East.
Justice Saqib Nisar appointed as Chief Justice of Pak
Justice Mian Saqib Nisar was appointed as the 25th Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) on 31st December, 2016. Nisar has replaced Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali, who retired on December 30. After serving as the Chief Justice for 15 months since his appointment in September 2015. President Mamnoon Hussain administered the oath to Justice Nisar during a ceremony held at President’s House in Islamabad.
B. RESIGNS
19 year old Yana Kudryavtseva, 13 times world champion in gymnastics retired
Yana Kudryavtseva won 13 world championships from 2013 to 2015 and won silver in 2016 Rio – Olympics. Due to severe damage to her feet retired at an early age of 19.
Britain Ambassador to Europe Union Quits
Britain’s Ambassador to the European Union Sir Ivan Rogers dealt a blow to the UK’s Brexit negotiations by quitting and urging his fellow British Civil Servants in Brussels to assert their independence by challenging ill founded arguments and mudded thinking. The U.K’s ambassador to the European Union Ivan Rogers has resigned from his post.
C. DEATHS
Holly Wood legend actor John Hurt dies at 77
Holly Wood Iconic actor John Hurt died on 27 January at the age of 77 after battling pancreatic cancer. He was renown for his performances in The Elephant Man, Alien and Midnight Express but is best known to this generation as Mr. Ollivander, the beloved wandmaker from the Harry Potter film franchise His character first appeared in 2001’s Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone and he reprised the role again in 2010 for Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows part one, and the movies second part in 2011.
National award – winning filmmaker Deepak Roy dead at 67
The National Award Winning filmmaker Deepak Roy died at the age of 67. The acclaimed film maker made a movie named “Limit to Freedom”, which got him national award in 1996. Roy began his career as a Film Critics in 1974 and moved on to direction in 1982. He has a production house named “Angik Films”. He has been known for making more than 90 short films all produced his own banner. He was died by suffering cardiac arrest.
Padmashree awardee K. M. Philip passes away
A whole time director of MRF Ltd K. M. Phillip passed away. He was an active member of the YMCA and brought prestige to the organization as the first Asian to be elected as the president of the world alliance of YMCAs with its head quarters in Geneva. He was honored with the award Padmashree.
Iran Former President Rafsanjani died
Iran Former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani died due to heart attack at the age of 82. From 1989 to 1997 he served two terms as Iran’s President.
Former West Bengal Minister Saral Deb Passes away
Veteran All India Forward Bloc leader and former West Bengal Minister Saral Deb passed away following a prolonged illness. He was 82. He was a six-time state legislator, winning from Barasat constituency of North 24 parganas district. Deb was the state Library Minister from 1977 to 1982 and held Cooperative portfolio from 1982 to 1987.
Veteran Actor Om Puri Passes away
Veteran Actor Om Puri, who gave countless memorable performances in movies of diverse genres, died at his residence on January 6th morning after a massive heart attack. He was 66. From Bollywood to Hollywood, from independent to art films, the noted actor known for his versatility, gave several acclaimed performances. He was awarded the Padma Shri, the country’s highest civilian award, in 1990.
Former Union Minister Balasaheb Vikhe Patil passes away
Former Union Minister and congress leader EKnath Rao alias ‘Balasaheb’ Vikhe Patil passed away at his residence in Loni village Ahmednagar district of Maharashtra on Friday evening. Following prolonged illness, his family said. He was 84. Leaving the congress to join Shiv Sena briefly, he served as Minister of State for Finance and later as Minister for Heavy Industries in then Prime Minister A.B. Vajpayee’s government.
D. MISCELLANEOUS
Union Govt launches mobile app for Haj Piligrimage
Kerala opened first transgender school in India. “Sahaj International” in Kochi will serve as a skill development centre to transgender school dropouts. They were trained under the National Open School System. The country’s first transgender school will also guide students with examinations equivalent to class X and XII. The school will have boarding facility. It will provide opportunities for soft skill training and organic farming.
BHIM becomes the most popular Android app in India
Just days after launch, government’s on line Payments app BHIM (Bharat Interface for Mobile) has become the most popular Android app in India. The app is topping the charts on Google’s play store in India with a rating of 4.1. PM Modi launched the BHIM app last week at an event in New Delhi. The app is based on the Unified Payment Interface (UPI) and common across all banks and financial institutions.
Amazon wins patent to launch Drone Deliveries
E-Commerce leader Amazon. Com (AMZN) has been awarded a US-patent for a flying warehouse that would act as a launch pad for its drones that the company plans to use to deliver certain products to customers doorsteps. It says it will use UAV or “Unmanned aerial Vehicles” (drones) to deliver items from airborne fulfillment centers, or AFCs to customers. When an order is placed, a drone or UAV will fly down and deliver the parcels
PLACES IN NEWS
DU becomes first public Versity with ‘monumental’ flag
Delhi University is set to host its first monumental flag. Even months after all Central University Vice Chancellor resolved to install the National Flag “Prominently and Proudly” on their campuses. According to Flag Foundation of India, DU is the First Public University in the country to get a monumental flagpole.
China to build world’s highest altitude Telescopes in Tibet
China is setting up the World’s highest altitude gravitational wave telescopes in a Tibet Prefecture close to Line of Actual Control with India with a budget of $ 18.8 million to detect faintest echoes resonating from the universe which may reveal more about the Big Bang Theory.
PERSONS IN NEWS
Miss France Iris Mittenaere Crowned Miss Universe 2016
Miss Universe 2016 Iris Myttenaere is the second crowned queen from France after 64 years. Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach the French beauty at the Mall of Asia Arena in pasay city before 20,000 people all over the world. The 23 year old model Iris turned beauty queen is pursuing her Dental Surgery degree in the last five years. She had always been fond of extreme sports, travelling the world and cooking new French dishes.
BOOKS IN NEWS
Former wrestler Mahavir Singh Phogat’s biography released
Former wrestler and coach Mahavir Singh Phogat made his way to the launch of his authorized biography ‘Akhada’ in Chandigarh . Sports journalist Saurabh Duggal released the biography.
Book titled “The people’s president : Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam released
Vice President Hamid Ansari on 4th January 2017 released a book titled. The People’s President: Dr APJ Abdul Kalam. The book was released at a function in New Delhi which has attended Union Minister for Finance and Corporate, Arun Jaitley National and International tours by the great president Kalams.
DAYS AND DATES
National Immunization Day-29 January
The National Immunization Day was observed on January 29, 2017 to spread awareness about eradicating polio. As a part of the President Pranab Mukherjee launched the pulse polio programme on January 28, 2017 by administering polio drops to children aged below five years at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. Around 17 crore Children of less than five years across the country will be given polio drops on this day.
India Celebrates its 68 Republic Day
India is Celebrating its 68th Republic Day on 26 January 2017. The Celebrations were began with president hoisting the Indian Flag. Abu Dhabi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan the Chief Guest at the annual parade in New Delhi. The theme of 2017 Republic Day is “Skill India and Beti Bachao Beti Padhao”. Every year this day is celebrated on January 26, as it was on this day that the Constitution of India came into force in the year 1950.
National Girl Child Day Observed on 24 January
National on 24 January 2016 observed the 9th National Girl Child Day. It is celebrated to spread awareness about the inequalities faced by the girl child in the country. It is observed on 24 January every year. It was initiated by the Govt in 2008. Union Ministry of Women and Child Development has been taking different initiatives to address and reverse the trend of declining sex ratio in the country.
69th Army Day – 15th January 2017
69th Army Day is being observed today (15-01-2017) The day marks the taking over of the Indian Army by the First Indian Commander-in-Chief, Field Marshal KM Cariappa, on January 15, 1948. He took over the reigns of the Army from Lieutenant General sir Francis Butcher, the last British Commander-in- Chief and became the first Commander-in-chief of the independent India.
January 12: National Youth Day
The Birth anniversary of social reformer, philosopher and thinker Swami Vivekananda celebrated as National Youth Day. Every year on January 12 to mark as the National Youth Day. Observance of the day seeks to Vivekananda for which he lived and worked. It will also help and act as a great source of inspiration for the Indian Youth.
January 10th celebrated as 11th World Hindi Day
Hindi, the Indo-Aryan language is growing in a rapid pace and World Hindi Day is not only celebrated in India, across the world it is celebrating. 11th world Hindi Day is observed on 10th January 2017.
Birth Anniversary of Savitribai Phule- 3 January
Hailed as the country’s first woman teacher, Savitribai Phule was a social worker and a poet. Born on January 3, 1831 in Maharashtra’s Naigaon. 2017 marks her 186th birth year. Savitribai Phule was credited with laying the foundation of education opportunities for women in India and played a major role in improving women’s rights in the country during the British Raj. Many of her poems were against discrimination and spoke about the need to get educated. She campaigned against untouchability, sati tradition, child marriage and other social evils most of her life.
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