INTERNATIONAL
EI Salvador becomes first country to ban metals mining
EI Salvador, Central America’s smallest nation, has become the first country in the world to ban metals mining nation wide. The new law, supported by 70 lawmakers, bans all exploration, extraction and processing of metals both in open pits and mines. The level of environmental pollution in EI Salvador is one of the highest in the region and the availability of drinking water is the lowest.
Peggy Whitson breaks Sunita Williams Spacewalk Record
Peggy Whitson made a history when she floated outside the International Space Station. She broke the record for the most spacewalks Sumita Williams, Whitson at the age of 57, is making her eighth career spacewalk, surpassing the record of seven times held by Indian American Sumita Williams. Ms Whitson earned a doctorate in biochemistry and served as the first female space station commander in 2008.
Jeff Bezos – Now the World’s Second Richest Person
Amazon.com founder and CEO Jeff Bezos has become the World’s second richest person adding $1.5 billion to his net worth at $ 75.6 billion, according to Bloomberg’s billionaire Index. According to Bloomberg, his net worth increased by $10.2 billion this year. Microsoft Co- founder Bill Gates remained the World’s richest person and topped Forbes annual list with an estimated net worth of $ 86 billion, up from $ 75 billion in 2016.
Taliban Captures Southern Afghan city of Sangin
The Taliban has captured the crucial city of Sangin in southern Afghanistan after a year-long battle. Afghan forces have made a tactical retreat from the center of Sangin. The fall of sangin came amid the insurgents year-long push to expand their foot print in the Taliban heartland of Helmand Province. It signals growing strength of Taliban in Afghanistan.
Norway is the happiest place in the world
Norway is the happiest place on the earth. It has over taking nearby Denmark from the No.1 position according to the World Happiness Report. Norway moved up from fourth place in the United Nations report with Iceland in third, Switzerland in fourth, and Finland in fifth. The United states is No.14 and United Kingdom is No.19 positions.
Italy Ranked World’s Healthiest Country
Italy has been ranked as the healthiest country on Earth with a health score of 97.44 out of 100. According to the 2017 Bloomberg Global Health Index of 163 countries released on 20 March, 2017. The reason behind the healthy citizens of Italy is cited to lot of dependence on leafy diets drizzled with extra virgin olive oil. Iceland placed second with a score of 96.20 and Switzerland placed third with a score of 94.96.
Japan launches satellite to Monitor North Korea
Japan on 17 March 2017 launched a new satellite to track land and maritime movements in North Korea. The satellite will also be able to conduct surveys on the war weapons programme of the secretive nuclear armed state. The launch project was conducted jointly by the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. The move comes shortly after North Korea launched four banned ballistic missiles into the sea of Japan;s north west coast, alarming both Japan and US.
Saudi Arabia Inaugurates Girls Council
In a bid to encourage women participation in Work Force, Saudi Arabia has for the first time decided to launch a Girl’s Council. The meeting in the al-Qassim Province was attended by 13 male numbers while the women were present too but they were in another room linked via video due to strict Saudi laws on gender segregation between unrelated men and women. The council was about women participation in the work force from 22% to 30% as part of its vision 2030 program.
US Senate confirms Seema Verma for Health care post
Indian -American Seema Verma is appointed for a top health care position in the Trump administration. Her appointment was confirmed by the US senate after 43 votes out of 55 has secured by Verma. Verma is expected to play a key role in the government’s bid to “repeal and replace”,She is known as the architect of health care reforms in several states in America.
First Fluorescent Frog Found in Argentina
A group of scientists discovered the world’s first fluorescent frog near Santa Fe in Argentina. The frog sports a muted palette of greens, yellows, and reds under normal light, but emits a bright blue and green glow in the dark. The molecules contain a ring structure and a chain of hydrocarbons. The closest similar molecules are found in plants.
Japan to send its largest warship to South China Sea
In its biggest show of naval force since World War II, Japan is planning to send its largest warship. “JS Izumo” on a 3 months tour through the South China Sea, starting from May 2017. The main aim is to test capability of the Warship by sending it out on an extended mission. The 249 m long carrier is as large as Japan’s World War -II-era carriers and can operate up to 9 helicopters.
Pakistan set to conduct its first Census in 19 years
Pakistan is set to conduct its first national census in 19 years which will begin on 15 March with the assistance of over 2,00,000 troops. Army spokesman Major General Asif Ghafoor and Minister of state for Information Marriyum Aurangzeb addressed a joint conference about preparation for the census, which will be conducted in phases and will be completed conducted in two phases and will be completed on May 25.
Syrian troops with Russian support recaptured historic city of Palmyra
Syrian troops backed by Russian jets recently recaptured the historic city of Palmyra from the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS). Palmyra was first seized by the militant group in May 2015. After capturing the city. UNESCO world heritage site was destroyed systematically. The city was listed in UNESCO’s world heritage site for hosting numerous ancient monuments and temples.
South Korea and America Begin Annual Military Drill Foat Eagle
The United States and South Korea troops started their large scale military drill named Foal Eagle. The aim of the military exercise is to test their defence readiness against the threat from North Korea. North Korea Conducted its first ballistic missile test of 2017 in February and views the Foal Eagle Exercise 2017 as Preparation for war against it.
Malaysia to cancel visa-free entry for North Koreans
Malaysia has decided to cancel the Visa-free travel permit to the North Koreans, following the murder of Kim Jong Nam, the estranged half brother of the North Korean leader Kim Jong Un at the Kuala Lumpur Airport. The announcement was made by deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid. The Visa-free entry for North Koreans will be cancelled from 6 March 2017.
WHO Releases 12 Priority Pathogenic Super Bugs list
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has released its first ever list of antibiotic-resistant priority pathogens-a catalogue of 12 families of bacteria. The list was given to development of new antibiotics, as part of WHO efforts to address growing global resistance to antimicrobial medicines. The list highlights in Particular the threat of gram-negative bacteria that are resistant to multiple antibiotics. These bacteria have built-in abilities to find new ways to resist treatment and that can allow other bacteria to become drug-resistant as well.
INDIA & WORLD
India Be comes Third largest in Domestic Air Traffic
India which is rising high in the field of aviation now attained a still higher position by pushing Japan back, achieving a 3rd spot in domestic air traffic behind USA and China. USA topped with 719 million passengers and followed by China 436 million passengers. India attained 3rd spot with 100 million passengers in 2016. India pushed back Japan which had only 97 million passengers last year.
Five Indian Cities included in World Heritage List
The Union Govt recently informed that five Indian Cities were included in the Tentative List of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The Information was given by the Union Minister of state for Cultural and Tourism (Independent Charge) Dr. Mahesh Sharmain. The list of five Indian cities are Ahmedabad, Delhi, Jaipur, Bhubaneswar and Mumbai.
Indian cities among cheapest globally Economist Intelligence Unit
Four Indian cities among the cheapest to live in globally, while Singapore has been ranked as the most expensive for the fourth consecutive year, as per a report by Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). Bangalore (3rd) place, Chennai (6th), Mumbai (7th) and New Delhi (10th) have been ranked by EIU among the 10 cheapest cities in the world. Almaty has been ranked as the cheapest city in the World followed by Lagos.
India Ranked 131 on Human Development Index
According to the UN Development Programme’s Human Development Report 2016, released on March 21, 2017. India ranked 131 of 188 when it comes to the Human Development Index (HDI). This put it in the medium category. The Index is based on three dimensions, life expectancy at birth, mean years of schooling and expected years of schooling and gross national income per capita. India’s HDI at 0.624, was behind Sri Lanka and the Maldives in South Asia. Norway, Australia and Switzerland are placed in top three positions.
First Airbus Training Center in Asia to be set up in New Delhi
France based Aircraft maker Airbus will set up Asia’s first training facility for pilots and maintenance engineers in New Delhi. Union Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathi Raju performed the ground-breaking ceremony for the training center on March 17, 2017. The center will formed by the European Aviation major Airbus. It is to b e expected to be operational by the end of 2018.
World’s Oldest Red Algae Fossils Found in India
A group of scientists in India unearthed a pair of 1.6 billion years – old fossils that appear to contain red algae. It is estimated that it may be the oldest plant like life discovered on Earth. As per the records until now, the oldest red algae were 1.2 billion years old. But present found algae were more old that these algae. The preserved fossils came from phosphorite deposits at Jankikund, Chitrakoot, Uttar Pradesh.
India Joins WHO To End TB By 2030
India with World Health Organization (WHO) signed a ‘call for action’ and pledged to scale up measures to end the Tuberculosis (TB) by 2030. India among other countries in the South East Asian REgion, which bear half of the global tuberculosis burden. India reports 2.8 million new TB cases annually and nearly half a million deaths due to this disease.
Tata Steel, Wipro in World’s most ethical companies list
Two Indian Companies, Tata Steel and Wipro have been named in the list of world’s most ethical companies by American think tank Ethisphere Institute. In 2017, there were 124 honorees spanning five continents, 19 countries and 52 industry sectors. Ethisphere honours those companies who recognize their role in society to influence and drive positive change in the societies around the world.
India is largest Cotton Producing Country in the World
India is the largest cotton Producing and second largest exporting country in the world. As per the International Cotton Advisory Committee (ICAC) report for the month of March, 2017 India is the largest cotton Producing Country in the World. Pakistan is the second largest cotton producing country in the World. China is largest Cotton export country in the World.
India Bangladesh border guards celebrate Holi together
India’s Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) played Holi At Akhaura integrated check post and other bordering areas of Tripura and also exchanged sweets. Holi, the popular “Festival of Colours”, will be celebrated in some some parts of the country on Sunday and the other parts on Monday. Celebration of each other’s festivals together would bring both the Organisations closer.
Cultural Festival “India by the Nile” to begin in Egypt
The meg cultural festival “India by the Nile” got off to a colourful start at the foot of the Pyramids in Cairo with a Crafts Mela. Show casing joint handicraft exhibition of India and Egypt. India’s Ambassador to Egypt, Sanjay Bhattacharya said the event is a special moment as this year India celebrate 70 years of Independence and also 70 years of its diplomatic relation with Egypt.
Hyderabad GMR Airport Declared Best in World For Service
GMR’s Hyderabad International Airport has secured first position in the world in the prestigious Airports Council International (ACI) Airport Service Quality (ASQ) survey in the 5-15 million passengers per annum (MPPA) category of the year 2016. Besides, the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi has been ranked world’s second best airport, its score increased from 4.96 in 2015 to 4.99 in 2016.
India – Israel celebrates Silver Jubilee for their diplomatic relations
India and Israel celebrated 25 years of establishment of their diplomatic relations on February 28,2017 in New Delhi. Making the occasion a logo was unveiled by Amarsinha and Daniel Carmon, Israeli Ambassador to India, at the Indira Gandhi National Center for the Arts in New Delhi. These include exchange of high-level political visits and visits by business delegations.
NATIONAL
Union Govt releases Postage Stamp on Cub Scouts
Union Minister of Communications Manoj Sinha on 30 March 2017 released a Postage Stamp on cub scouts to commemorate Centenary year of Cub Scouts in India and abroad, Scouting aims to support young people in their physical, mental and spiritual development. Bharat Scouts Guide not only play an important role in the overall development of the country but also work for road and rail safety, Swachh Bharat Mission apart from many development activities.
President inaugurates Namini Brahmaputra Festival
President Pranab Mukherjee on 31st March Inaugurated the River festival Namimi Brahmaputra in Guwahati today (31st March). The festival tagged as “India’s largest river festival” is being organised across 21 districts of the state and will show case trade, tourism and cultural possibilities of along Brahmaputra river. Nobel Laureate and Tibetan Spiritual leader Dalai. Lama, Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev, Union Ministers Nitin Gadkari and Mahesh Sharma along with tourists from across the globe are expected to attend the meeting.
Union Government to launch Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana
Union Govt, is going to launch Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY) scheme for providing physical aids and assisted living devices for senior citizens belonging to BPL category. It will be launched in Nellore District, Andhra Pradesh on 1st April, 2017. The physical aids and assisted living devices for senior citizens will be distributed in camp mode and the scheme will be implemented through the sole implementing agency, Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation (ALIMCO)
India’s Longest Road Tunnel in J&K National Highways
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will Inaugurate India’s longest road tunnel, built on the Jammu – Srinagar National Highway, on April 2. This Chenani – Nashri tunnel on JK highway will cut short the distance between Jammu and Srinagar by nearly 30 km. The work on the 9.2 km long twin – tube tunnel, which is a part of a 286 km long four lane project on highway, started on May 23, 2011 in lower Himalayan Mountain Ran
86th Martyrdom of Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev
On 86th martyrdom day of India’s freedom fighters Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev the whole nation remembering the legends on March 23 PM. Narendra Modi also paid tributes to Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev on the day of their death anniversary. It could be mentioned here that Bhagat Singh along with Sukhdev and Rajguru played a major part in the freedom struggle of India against the British empire. The trio were hanged to death in Lahore Jail on March 23. 1931.
Rajya Sabha passes HIV, AIDS Bill, 2017 by Voice Vote
The Upper House of Indian Parliament, Rajya Sabha passed the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and AIDS prevention and control Bill, 2014 by voice vote on 21 March 2017. The bill, which includes provisions that ensure equal rights to people affiliated by HIV and AIDS in getting treatment and admission in educational institutions and jobs, was introduced in the house on the same day.
First Fully India made train Medha flagged off at Mumbai
Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu, via videoconferencing, flagged off the maiden run of the train Medha from Dadar to Borivali, at Lokmanya Tilak Terminus. The 12 coach train on the fast track halted at Bandra and Andheri stations in Mumbai. Medha has been manufactured by the Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in Chennai, which has installed LED lighting to reduce energy consumption.
Punjab Govt gives 33% reservation for Women in State Jobs
In a major decision, the Punjab Cabinet has decided to provide 33% reservation for women in all govt jobs. Women will be given the reservation also in the contractual appointments of the state government. The decision was taken in the first cabinet meeting chaired by Punjab Chief Minister Amarinder Singh in Chandigarh.
Union Government approves National Health Policy
The Union Government has approved the National Health policy, which proposes to provide assured health services to all in the country. The policy was approved on 16 March 2017 at the meeting of Union Cabinet chaired by PM Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The policy increases to gambit of sectors covered in the Primary Health Center (PHC) level and envisages a comprehensive approach.
Commerce Minister launched Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme
Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched the Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES) on 15 March 2017. Sitharaman said that the scheme aims to address the needs of the exporters and added that the focus in not just on creating infrastructure but to make sure it is professionally run and sustained.
Amitabh Bachchan as New Ambassador to Oneplus India
Chinese smartphone company Oneplus has roped in Bollywood Star Amitabh Bachchan as its new brand ambassador recently. Mr. Bachchan is the first major face that Oneplus India is associating with for its latest flagship smartphone, one plus 3 T. Bachchan has been considered since he better represents “One Plus” motto Never Settle Oneplus 3 T is rated as the best smartphone as compared to other brands based on consumer ratings on Amazon India. With this Amitabh has now joined the first ever “One Plus Star” which is a select group of distinguished One Plus Users.
Arun Jaitley Assumes Additional Charge of Defence
The Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley was given the additional charge of the Defence Ministry on March 13, 2017 after Manohar Parrikar resigned to take on the new role of Goa Chief Minister. Upon the advice of PM Modi, the President Mukherjee directed that Arun Jaitley shall be assigned the charge of Defence Ministry. This is the second time that Jaitley is holding the additional portfolio of Defence Ministry during the present NDA’s government.
BJP Victory in UP, UK and Hung in Goa, Manipur
In the five state assembly elections in 2017, BJP has got absolute Majority in Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand, while Congress won in Punjab, No party has emerged with clear majority in Goa and Manipur, however congress emerged as single largest party in the these states.
India’s 1st AC rail ambulance launched at Mumbai
The Four coach air conditioned (AC) ambulance has been unveiled by the central Railway. This is India’s first air conditioned rail ambulance. CR is the lifeline of Mumbai and other nearby areas as a large number of patents travel in local train. But due to lack of emergency medical care, the critically injured patients succumb to death. That why this rail ambulance would provide timely treatment and save lives.
Parliament passes Maternity Benefit Bill, 2016
Parliament on 9 March 2017 passed the Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Bill, 2016. The Bill seeks to amends the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961. The Bill was passed by Lok Sabha during the Parliament Session. The Bill had already been passed by the Rajya Sabha in August 2016 during the winter session. With this the Bill stands passed in the Parliament. The Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Bill, 2016 will come into the force only after the President’s assent to the bill.
PM Modi to Release Special Commemorative Postage Stamp
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will release Commemorative Postage Stamp on 100th Anniversary of the Yogoda Satsanga Society of India at a function in New Delhi. Yogoda Satsanga Society in a non-profit religious organization founded by Paramahansa Yogananda in 1917. Yogoda Satsanga Society (YSS) celebrated its 100 years journey on 10th March 2017.
World’s oldest serving aircraft carrier INS Viraat retires today
The World’s oldest aircraft carrier in active service, INS Viraat will be decommissioned on 6 March 2017. The iconic carrier will receive a ceremonial send off in Mumbai. Similar to the decommissioning of INS Vikrant, India’s first aircraft carrier in January 1997, INS Viraat send off would be an emotional moment for the novel officers and other personnel who were deployed on the ship.
Narendra Singh Tomar launches Swachh Shakti Saptah at Gurugram
Drinking water and Sanitation Minister Narendra Singh Tomar recently launched Swachh Shakti Saptah at Gurugram in Haryana. The week long programme across the country will highlight the role of women in Swachh Bharat Mission and recognize their leadership. In these seven days honouring women Champions, women sarpanches, ASHA Workers, school teachers, senior women citizens.
STATES
World’s Largest Capstone Discovered in Telangana
A capstone in the shape of a human body was excavated at Narmeta Village, Siddipet District by Telangana State Department of Archaeology and Museums. This is the largest capstone ever discovered by the department in its 100-year history. It was excavated near an ancient human burial site and is said to be at least 2,750 years old. DNA testing will also be done by the archaeologists to trace the prehistoric date of the humans buried in the ground.
Bengaluru gets India’s first vertical garden
Emulating China and Italy vertical forests, Bengaluru get its first vertical garden, which it hopes will help in curbing pollution and in beautifying the city. An NGO, installed the first vertical garden in the city on one of the pillars of the Hosur Road flyover. The garden boasts of around 3500 saplings of more than 10 species. An automated drip irrigation system has been installed that will water these saplings every day.
Yogi Adityanath sworn in CM of Uttar Pradesh
Gorakhpur Member of Parliament (MP) Yogi Adityanath was elected on 18 March 2017 as the leader of UP BJP state Legislature Party. With this election, Yogi Adityanath was set to become the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh. He was Sworn in CM of Uttar Pradesh on 19 March 2017 at a ceremony in Lucknow. He was took Oath as CM of UP in the presence of PM Modi, Amit Shah, L.K. Advani etc.
Krishi Unnati Mela 2017 inaugurated in New Delhi
The Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmer’s Welfare Radha Mohan Singh on 15 March 2017 inaugurated the Krishi Unnati Mela 2017 in New Delhi. The mela is jointly Organised by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and the Union Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer’s welfare. During the mela, technical sessions on various themes are planned to educate farmers on various Agricultural technologies and govt schemes for agricultural development.
Amaravati a futuristic World-Class City in Making
Amaravati, the capital of the truncated Andhra Pradesh, is planned to be developed as a futuristic World-Class City with the expertise from Japan and Singapore, and the cost of building it could be in excess of $ 2 billion says AP finance Minister Yanamala Ramakrishnudu.
KCR Kit Scheme in Telangana for Pregnant Women & Newborn
The state government of Telangana has proposed a new scheme named as “KCR Kit” focusing on women welfare and newborn. The Chief Minister has come out with Rs.605 crore innovative scheme “KCR Kit” for the pregnant women and newborn. The scheme will help to manage the complications during the time of pregnancy and help to reduce the infant mortality rate in the state.
Arunachal Pradesh launches Adarsh Gram Yojana
The Arunachal Pradesh government launched a new scheme “Adarsh Gram Yojana” that is in accordance with the basic philosophy of the Prime Minister “Sabka Saath Sabka Vikaas”. The scheme aims to reach the poor people in rural areas of the state to serve then better. Under the scheme, 123 villages developed as ‘Model Villages’ during the fiscal year 2017-18.
Deputy CM Francis D’souza wins from Mapusa
Senior BJP leader and Goa deputy chief minister Francis D’souza has won by 6,828 votes from Mapusa constituency. D’souza, who has expressed desire to made the chief minister in November 2014 when PM Narendra Modi moved then Goa CM Manohar Parrikar to the center, may again make that claim in the event of BJP going close to the majority mark of 21.
CBSE introduces Exam Locator app to help students
The central Board of secondary Education has come up with a new mobile app named Exam Locator. It will help students locate their examination center on the basis of their roll number. Using this app students can easily find the address, images and geolocation of the designated exam center on the map and get to know how to reach there. This development comes amid exams are round the corner for class X or XII examinees who can access information by selecting the option class and entering their roll number.
Virbhadra Singh launches mobile app ‘Mera Hunar HP’ for Job-Seekers
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh launched a mobile app and website “Mera Hunar HP” recently. Mera Hunar is a web based platform where the skilled, semi-skilled persons can apply for various jobs. And also plumber, Carpenter, Mechanic, Security Guards, Drivers, Tourist Guides can apply on online. This platform will directly connect with the prospective employers with job seekers.
Odisha government launches helpline for distressed women
Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik recently inaugurated a 24×7 toll free helpline number 181 for distressed women in Bhubaneswar. The helpline will facilitate quick response of various services including lodging police complaint to provide medical, legal and counselling to women victims. Naveen also said our govt has instituted 50% reservation for women in Panchayat Raj Institutions and Govt jobs.
Viswanath Mahadeshwar as Mumbai’s new Mayor
Viswanath Mahadeshwar was elected Mumbai’s new mayor on 8th March by show of hands in which the BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party) supported the Shiv Sena Corporator. He was Handing over control of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), which is Asia’s richest civic body to its ally again.
First smart tribal village inaugurated in Jammu & Kashmir
Jammu & Kashmir Minister for food, Civil supplies and Consumer Affairs Ch Zulfikar Ali inaugurated the first tribal model village in “Kotranka” in Jammu & Kashmir’s Rajouri district. Developed under the rural development department, it is the first smart tribal village in Jammu & Kashmir. The village has been introduced with smart classes in the schools, better roads, electricity and water facility.
Tribal Festival “Bhagoria” begins in Madhya Pradesh
Bhagoria Festival, also known as Bhagoria Haat festival, celebrated by the tribal people of the Indian State Madhya Pradesh began on March 6, 2017 in Jhabua district. The Festival which has been organised at 34 places in the state is celebrated in the month of March before the Holi Festival by the local tribes called Bhils and Bhilalas. The week long festival is organised to select their life partners by Swayamvara.
West Bengal Govt grants Official language status to Kurukh
The West Bengal Government granted Official language status to endangered tribal language Kurukh. The official language status was given to the endangered language by the state government in February 2017. However, the announcement was recently made by Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
Delhi Govt Extends Midday Meal Scheme for Girls Up to Class 12th
Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) led Delhi Govt has come up with an initiative to extend the mid-day meal facility for the girl students up to class 12 in all Delhi Govt Schools. Currently Delhi provides the facility to all the students of government schools including boys up to class 8 only, However, from April 1, 2017, the mid day meal service for girl students up to class 12th.
AP cabinet accepts naming of Tirupati Airport as Sri Venkateswara Airport
Andhra Pradesh on 2 March 2017 decided to rename Tirupati Airport as Sri Venkateswara Airport and Gannavaram Airport as NTR Amaravati Airport. The decision was taken by the state cabinet, which met under the Chairmanship of Chief Minister N.Chandrababu Naidu, in Amaravathi. A proposal of renaming the airports would now be sent to Union Government for approval.
Chandrababu Naidu inaugurates AP Assembly Building
Andhra Pradesh CM N.Chandrababu Naidu inaugurated the new Assembly building at Velagapudi in the capital Amaravati region in Guntur District on 2nd March The Budget session which is scheduled to begin on 6th March. It will be the first Assembly session on the Andhra Pradesh’s soil in New Capital Amaravathi after the bifurcation of the state.
Himachal Pradesh Makes Dharamshala its Second Capital
The Himachal Pradesh Cabinet on 2nd March approved a proposal to make Dharamshala as the second capital of the state. The decision was taken in cabinet meeting on 2nd March Chaired by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh. Following cabinet’s approval, amini secretariat would come up in Dharamshala to house the offices of ministers and Senior Officers.
International Yoga Festival Uttarakhand
International Yoga Festival celebrations started this year in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand on 1st March 2017. In this event Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that world is threatened by the twin challenges of terrorism and climate change. He also stated that there should be peace among the nations and Yoga helps to create harmony and peace across the world.
Assam to host river festival “Namami Brahmaputra”
Assam will host river festival ‘Namami Brahmaputra’ at the riverfront of Brahmaputra in Guwahati from 31 March to 4 April 2017. The decision was announced by Assam’s Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal. The state govt has invited India’s President Pranab Mukherjee, PM Narendra Modi, Ambassador of all countries and all Chief Ministers and Chief Secretaries to Participate in the Mega Festival.
Panneerselvam Inaugurates “Amma Kalviyagam”
Former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O.Panneerselvam launched a portal which will be a “hub of learning, interaction, opportunity and connection”, The “Ammakalviyagam in” named after late Chief Minister Jayalalithaa. The portal was launched by Panneerselvam as part of her 69 birth anniversary celebrations. Jayalalithaa is fondly addressed as “Amma” by her supporters. The initiative was based on Massive Open Online Courses (MOOC) model.
Chennai HC Pass law to remove Seemai Karuvelam Trees
The Madurai bench of the Chennai High Court directed the state Government on 27 February 2017 to pass a special law to uproot the harmful Seemai Karuvelam trees. The directive was given by a bench consisting of Justices. A Selvam and P.Kalaiarasan, who observed that only 15% of the trees had been removed up until now. The Judgement followed a PIL filed by MDMK leader Vaiko.
CONFERENCES
9th World Environmental Education Congress
World Environmental Education Congress (WEEC) is an international congress addressing education for environment and sustainable development. WEEC 2017 is the 9th congress and will take place September 9-15, – 2017 in Vancouver, BC, Canada. WEEC is an opportunity to learn more about the latest in environmental and sustainability education, to discuss with people from all over the world.
Hyderabad to host 105th Indian Science Congress
Osmania University in Hyderabad will host the 105th Edition of “Indian Science Congress” during January 3-7, 2018. According to Achyuta Samanta, General President of Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA) and founder of Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Bhubaneswar. The conference will be on the theme “Science and Technology Reaching the Unreached”. This will be the sixth time the University will be hosting the conference.
Conference on “Make in India” held in houston
First ever conference was held here bringing together various constituencies that have an interest in India and discussing the latest developments and the best practices of doing business in India. The two day Houston India Conference was hosted by Asia Society Texas Center. The Theme of the conference is “Make in India – The Inside Story”. Texas has Vibrant Indian has American population that has contributed immensely to the understanding between our two countries across business, academia, the sciences.
Dalai Lama inaugurated 3-day Buddhist Conference in Bihar
The 3-day International Buddhist Conference began at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara, Rajgir in Nalanda district in Bihar, recently. The event was jointly inaugurated the much respected religious leader Dalai Lama and the Union Minister of Tourism and Culture, Mahesh Sharma. Over 1000 delegates from 35 countries including Indonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Singapore were participating in this event.
G 20 meet of Finance Minister and Central Bank Governors begin in Germany
The Finance ministers and central bank governors from the group of G 20 economies are due to meet in Baden-baden in Germany from 17-18 March 2017. The meeting is expected to focus on strengthening economic resilience in finance and digitization and to promote investment in Africa. This meet will be the first such gathering of G 20 leaders to discuss global economic challenges.
Hamid Ansari attends IORA Summit in Jakarta
Vice President Hamid Ansari was on a two day visit to Indonesia to attend the 21-nation Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) summit in Jakarta, Indonesia from March 6-7, 2017. The theme of summit is “Strengthening Maritime cooperation for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indian Ocean. India is one of the country in IORA’s 21 membering countries.
AWARDS & HONOURS
Indian Army Chief receive the honorary General title of Nepal Army
Indian Army Chief General Bipin Rawat was conferred the title of honorary General of the Nepal Army by Nepalese President Bidya Devi Bhandari. General Rawat was honoured at a special ceremony at the president’s official residence ‘Sheetal Nivas’ in Kathmandu. She handed over a sword, an insignia and a certificate with regard to the honorary title to General Rawat.
Anupam Kher receives Kata Ratan Award
Veteran Bollywood actor Anupam Kher was honoured with the Kala Ratan Award by vice president Hamid Ansari at Punjab University, Chandigarh. He was received this award for his contribution to Indian Cinema. Anupam Kher has completed almost four decades in Bollywood and worked in more than 400 films including several Hindi Block busters, superhits and International films. Kher honoured by Padma Shri in 2004, then received Padma Bhushan in 2016 by Govt of India.
Major Rohit Suri awarded Kirti Chakra
Major Rohit Suri, who led the army team that carried out the daring cross-border surgical strike last year. He was on 20 March 2017 decorated with second highest peacetime gallantry award Kirti Chakra by President Pranab Mukherjee. Corporal Gursevak Singh of Indian Air force was posthumously conferred the Shaurya Chakra for putting up a valiant fight against terrorists who had attacked the front line Pathankot air base in January last year.
Justice Nava Nidhi Prasad Singh sworn in as Kerala HC Chief Justice
Justice Nava Nidhi Prasad Singh was on 20 March 2017 sworn in as the new Chief Justice of Kerala High Court. Article 2016, every high court shall consist of a Chief Justice and such other Judges as the president may from time to time deem it necessary to appoint. He practiced in commercial, taxation and constitutional matters in Patna and Jharkhand High Courts.
Mahabaleshwar Sail gets Saraswati Samman – 2016
Eminent Konkani Writer Mahabaleshwar Sail has been honoured with the Saraswati Samman 2016, for his novel “Hawthan”. The award comprises a cash prize of Rs.15 lakh and a citation. The 74-year-old writer’s novel was shortlisted from 22 regional language books. He has four Marathi and seven Konkani novels to his credit.
Aishwarya Rai Wins Best Actress for Sarbjit at IFFA Australia
Bollywood Actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan has won the best actress award at the International Film Festival and Awards of Australia (IFFAA) fo her movie Sarbjit. Directed by Omung Kumar, Sarbjit was the biopic on Sarbjit Singh was was an Indian Farmer was convicted of terrorism and spying in Pakistan. The film starring Aishwarya and Randeep Hooda showcased his journey inside the jail and his sister’s unending fight to free him.
MP Veerendra Kumar presented Moortidevi Award
Eminent Malayalam Author and Journalist, M.P. Veerendra Kumar was presented the 30th Moortidevi Award by Bharatiya Jnanpith organisation. Kumar was chosen for the prestigious award for his Malayalam Travelogue “Hymavatha Bhoovi” It dwells upon ancient trails of Indian culture, myth, literature, and people strewn in the plains, valleys, and mountains of India.
SERB Fellowship Award to Lalji Singh
Lalji Singh, former Director,the center for cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) has been selected for the award of SERB Fellowship. It is given by the science and Engineering Research Board (SERB) which is a statutory body of the Government of India. The Award supports research of scientists who are active and performing even after superannuation.
Rihanna Named Humanitarian of the Year Award
The popular singer Rihanna has been named the 2017 Harvard University “Humanitarian of the year Award”. Best known for her chart topping albums, Barbadian singer was awarded the famous Peter J.Gomes Humanitarian Award. She got the award for her work supporting education and health care in Caribbean and developing countries.
Kohli Nominated for Polly Umrigar Award, Aswin for Dilip Sardesai Award
Indian Captain Virat Kohli was nominated for the Prestigious Polly Umrigar Award while all rounder Ravichandran Aswin named for the Dilip Sardesai Award. The awards will be presented at the BCCI Annual Awards to be held in Bangalore on 8th March, 2017. Kohli becomes the first Indian cricketer to get Polly Umrigar Award on the third occasion after 2011-12 and 2014-15 season.
Rangaswamy Becomes First Woman to be Honored BCCI Lifetime Achievement Award
As a part of delivering recognition to Women in India, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), has for the first time introduced a separate category of Lifetime Achievement Awards for Women in the up coming BCCI Awards 2016-17. For the award, BCCI has chosen former Indian skipper Shata Rangaswamy on February 28,2017 who was become the first receiver of the award under the category.
SPORTS & GAMES
SV Sunil named player of the year for 2016 Asian Hockey Awards
India’s SV Sunil has been named as the Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) player of the year 2016. Sunil has been honoured in the senior men’s section. While Harmanpreet was named the promising player of the year 2016. He has been honoured in the Junior men’s section. Sunil has been a key number of the Indian side over the fast few years and played a vital role in India’s successful outing at last year’s Champions Trophy where then won a historic silver medal.
Srinath Narayan becomes India’s 46th Grandmaster
Chennai’s Srinath Narayan is set to become India’s 46th Grandmaster after he defeated Spanish GM David Anton Guijarro at the on going Sharjah Master’s 2017 Chess Tournament. The 23 year old, who had become India’s youngest FIDE rated player in 2002 when he was just eight, also finished as joint winner in the Under-12 World Championship in 2005 in France. Srinath became an International Master at the age of 14 and crossed the 2500 Elo rating a few months back.
Siddhartha Upadhyay appointed on governing body of Sports Authority of India
Society for Transformation, Inclusion and Recognition through Sports (STAIRS) founder and secretary general Siddhartha Upadhyay has been appointed to the governing body of Sports Authority of India. Sports entrepreneur and Philanthropist Siddhartha Upadhyay is leading the change in sports at grassroots levels through STAIRS, a not for profit organization working towards sports, education, health and skill development of Children across India.
West Bengal win Santosh Trophy for 32nd time
West Bengal listed the Santosh Trophy for the 32nd time after Manvir Singh struck in the 119 minute for a 1-0 win over Goa, extending their domination in the premier domestic football tournament. Aster playing out a goalless 90 minutes, Manvir finally came good in the dying moments of extra time to leave the home crowd shocked at the GMS stadium.
Sebastian Vettel beats Lewis Hamilton in Australian Grand Prix
Ferrari’s Sebastian Vettel beat mercedes driven Lewis Hamilton to win the 2017 F1 Rolex Australian Grand Prix. It was held on 26 March 2017, at Albert Park in Melbourne. Besides, Mercedes’s Valtteri Bottas completed the podium at third position, This is the vettel’s 43rd race victory of his career and first victory since the 2015 singapore Grand Prix with a gap of Just 9.9 to runner-up Hamilton.
Pujara becomes first Indian to face 500 balls in a Test Innings
India’s most consistent middle order batsman Cheteshwar Pujara Stormed his Way into record books, after playing a marathon innings against Australia on fourth day of the Third Test Match. Pujara becomes the first Indian batsman to face 500 balls in a Test Innings by surpassing Rahul Dravid’s previous best of 495 balls. Dravid did it on Pakistan in Rawalpindi in 2004.
Tamil Nadu lifts Vijay Hazare Trophy
Tamil Nadu on 20 March 2017 won the Vijay Hazare Trophy in Cricket, for the fifth time. In the final played at the Feroz Shah Kotla stadium in New Delhi, they defeated Bengal by 37 runs. It was Tamil Nadu’s third victory over Bengal in the final of this competitions. Ofting to bat first, Tamilnadu posted 217 runs on a century by Dinesh karthik. He made 112. In reply they bundled out Bengal for 180 in 45.5 overs.
Roger Federer claimed Fifth Indian wells Masters Title
Roger Federer has claimed his fifth ATP Indian wells Masters title on 19 March, 2017. He was continuing his career resurgence with a 6-4, 7-5 victory over compatriot stan Wawrinka. Federer sidelined for around six months after knee surgery last year and returned to win his 18th Grand Slam Title at the Australian Open which was held in January 2017. With this title federer has joined Novak Djokovic as the only men to win five Indian wells Masters Titles.
Mumbai lose its permanent status in BCCI
Mumbai on 19 March 2017 lost its permanent status in the Board of control for Cricket in India (BCCI) Mumbai lost the voting rights in accordance with the new constitution of the Indian cricket Board. The board was finalized by the committee of Administrators (COA) appointed by the Supreme Court of India. The new rules of Memorandum of Associations (MOA) and Rules & Regulations of BCCI clearly state, there could be only one full member from a state
Shahid Afridi appointed ambassador of Blind Cricket World Cup
Former Pakistan allrounder Shahid Afridi has been appointed as the ambassador or Blind Cricket World Cup’s fifth edition. The tournament will be hosted by the Pakistan Blind Cricket Council in the UAE and Pakistan in January 2018. Afridi is not only an icon in the arena of cricket, but also a philanthropist and a role model in social work.
CAS upholds lifetime ban on Sergei Portugalov
The Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) upheld a lifetime ban levied against sergei Portugalov, former Chief of the Russian Athletics Federation’s Medical Commission for his role in providing illicit substances to Russian athletes. The Lausanne based court stated in a statement that it has slapped Portugalov with a lifetime period of ineligibility beginning March 10, 2017, for having supplied athletes with banned substances.
Punjab wins 2017 Santosh Trophy of Football
Punjab has won the 71st Santosh Trophy football tournament by defeating Railways by 2-1 goals. It was Punjab’s overall ninth Santosh Trophy. For Punjab, both goals were scored by Rajbir Singh (16th and 61st minutes). For Railways, single goal was scored by Rajesh Soosanayakam (59th minute) Santosh Trophy is an annual Indian Football tournament played in India.
Chawrasia Clinches second successive Indian Open title
SSP Chawrasia has become only the second Indian Golfer to successively defend the Hero Indian Open Title. He clinched a seven stroke win at the redesigned DLF Golf and country club in gurgaon on 13th March. This was his sixth win on the Asian Tour and overall his sixth international victory. Chawrasia is the third player to win back-to-back Indian Open.
Lee Chong Wei Wins fourth All England Title
Lee Chong Wei, Malaysia’s Veteran world number one, captured the All-England open on 12 March with a trampling 21-12, 21-10 win over China’s first time finalist Shi Yugi. It was Lee’s fourth All-England title, which equals the achievement of Morten Frost, the Dane who is his coaching director in Kuala Lumpur. From 21 August 2008 to 14 June 2012, he was ranked first worldwide for 199 consecutive weeks as a singles player.
BCCI to award WC – Winning blind Indian team Rs.1 crore
“Acche din” seems to have begun for blind cricket in India. It’s learnt that in a first of its kind gesture on its part, the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) will awards Rs.1 crore to the Indian Cricket Team which won the T 20 blind cricket World Cup (WC) last month by beating arch-rivals pakistan by nine wickets in the final in Bangalore.
Sachin Tendulkar as official ambassador of Women’s World Cup-2017
Veteran Indian Cricketer and former captain Sachin Tendulkar has appointed as an official ambassador of Women’s World Cup – 2017. It will begin from 24th June, 2017 in England and Wales. 8 Women Cricket teams from different countries will play 21-day tournament. It having 28 matches including final match. In the final match in winner will be decided.
Aswin and Jadeja jointly rank Number one in ICC Test Rankings
India’s Ravichandran Aswin and Ravindra Jadeja on 8 March 2017 became the first pair of spinners to be jointly top ranked in the MRF Tyres ICC player rankings for the Test Bowlers. The rankings released a day after the second test against (Australia in Bengaluru. Jadeja’s seven wickets in the match helped him move up one rank to reach the top position for the first time in his career. Before Aswin and Jadeja. Dale steyn Muttiah Muralidaran shared the top spot in April 2008.
Sam Querrey beats Rafael Nadal in Mexico Open Final
Sam Querrey beat a 14-time Grand Slam Champion Rafael Nadal in straight sets to claim the ATP Mexico Open hold on 4th March. The American Clinched the final 6-3, 7-6 to secure the title despite being unseeded and ranked No 40 in the World Querrey 29, beat Nadal for the first time in five meetings between the pair.
Andy Murray won first Dubia Championship title
Andy Murray beats Fernando Verdasco 6-3, 6-2 to win Dubai Tennis Championship. With this he became the first British Man to win the Dubai Championships in 25 years of history. It is Murray’s first tournament win of 2017 and 45th of his care
De Matos appointed as U – 17 Football Team Coach
All India Football Federation (AIFF) appointed Portugal’s Luis Norton De Matos as the Head Coach of the India U-17 World Cup Team for the forth coming FIFA U-17 World Cup India 2017. The tournament is scheduled to be held in October 2017 in India. De Matos replaces Nicolai Adam, who was forced to resign under controversial circumstances after a revolt from the players.
Jitu Rai wins gold in 50 m Air pistol at ISSF World Cup
Pistol shooter Jitu Rai on 1 March 2017 clinched the top position in the men’s 50 mt air pistol event with this, India won their first gold medal at the ISSF World Cup in New Delhi. It was Rai’s second medal in two days after he won the bronze medal in the 10 m air pistol event on 28 February 2017. The silver medal in the 50 m men’s air pistol event to India as Amanpreet Singh took the second position.
Kohli Named Captain of the year at ESPN Cricinfo Awards
Indian international cricketer Virat Kohli has named as the “Captain of the year” at the 10th Annual ESPN Cricinfo Awards, Kohli led India to nine wins out of 12 tests in the year 2016. The ESPN Cricinfo awards honour the best batting and bowling performances across the international formats of the game in the preceding calendar year.
ECONOMY
World Bank Sings US $ 100 million credit agreement with centre, Uttarakhand
The World Bank has signed a 100 million US dollar credit agreement with the Center and Uttarakhand in New Delhi on 23 March 2017. To improve Quality of health care services in all 13 districts of the Uttarakhand. The most public health facilities in the middle and upper mountainous areas of Uttarakhand are Unable to function optimally.
SBBJ, SBH, SBP, SBM and SBT to Operate as SBI from April 1st
Reserve Bank of India has made an announcement that all the branches of its five associate banks will operate as branches of State Bank of India, effective from April 1, 2017. The associate banks are State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur (SBBJ), State Bank of Hyderabad (SBH), State Bank of Patiala (SBP) State Bank of Mysore (SBM), State Bank of Travancore (SBI) Customers, including depositors of all the above five treated as customers of State Bank of India (SBI) from April 1st.
India’s contribution to UN increases to Rs.244 crore
India’s Contribution to the United Nations has increased to Rs.244 core from Rs.157 crore during the fiscal year 2016-17 said by Union external Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. Indian Government has also made voluntary contributions to the tune of 22 crore to international Organisations.
IDFC Bank launches Aadhar Pay system
IDFC Bank on 8th March launched the Biometric based Aadhaar Pay Payment system. Aaadhaar pay service is for merchants which will enable them to receive Aaadhaar-enable payments by passing credit and debit cards, Pin and Password. The Biometric reader is currently available for Rs.2,000. With the introduction of first of its kind, the bank targets to bring around 50,000, 75,000 merchants on board by 2019 and total touching 1 lakh merchants in three years.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
NASA, ISRO jointly working on the project NISAR
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) are jointly working on the development of Dual Frequency (L and S band) Synthetic Aperture Radar Imaging Satellite named as NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR). The L-band SAR is being developed by JPL/NASA, While ISRo is developing S-band SAR.
Berlin Scientists Created the World’s Largest Artificial Sun
Scientists of Berlin in Germany are flipping the switch on what’s being described as the world’s largest artificial sun. The giant honeycomb like structure, known as the “Sunlight” experiment uses 149 large spot light found in cinema projectors to simulate sunlight. They will focus the huge array of xenon short arc lamps on a single 20-by-20 centimeter spot. It will be able to produce the equivalent of 10,000 times the amount of solar radiation that would normally shine on the same sized surface.
Navy Successfully test fired Barak missile from INS Vikramaditya
The Indian Navy successfully test fired the short-range Barak surface-to-air missile from the Air Craft carrier INS Vikramaditya. During the firing carried out in the Arabian Sea, the missile was fired against a live low flying high speed target. The Indian Navy officials confirmed that Barak engaged and destroyed the target successfully.
ISRO sends four teams to 36th Expedition to Antarctica
The Indian space Research Organisation (ISRO) in March 2017 has sent four teams to 36th Expedition to Antarctica. The teams were installs takes on ice for Differential Global Positioning system (DGPS) to validate the glacier surface velocity. One team is from space applications center and the second team is from National remote Sensing Center. The third and fourth teams belongs to IRS Dehradun and space physics Laboratory.
Scientists Developed Blood Test to Detect Autism
Scientists in the US have developed a blood test that has the potential to accurately detect autism in babies. Researchers at New York’s Rensselaer polytechnic Institute claim 96% of Children on the autism spectrum would picked up through the test. The test measures the level of 24 proteins that have been linked to autism.
India Successfully Test-Fires Brahmos Supersonic Cruise Missile
India on 11th March, 2017 successfully test fired the Brahmos Supersonic Cruise Missile which is capable of carrying a warhead of 300 kg, from a test range along the Odisha Coast. The cruise missile was test fired from a mobile launcher from the Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur near to the Odisha Coast. Defence research and Development Organization was test fired it.
Scientists Creates Artificial Mouse “Embryo”
Scientists from University of Cambridge have successfully created a structure resembling a mouse embryo in culture, using two types of stem cells the body’s master cells’-and a 3D scaffold on which then can grow. Understanding the very early stages of embryo development is of interest because this knowledge may help explain why more than two out of three human pregnancies fail at this time.
Scientists Develops Solar – Powered Water Purifier
Scientists of University at Buffalo in the USA have developed a small-scale solar-powered purifier, which could provide a highly efficient and inexpensive way to turn contaminated water into potable water for personal use. The device, called a “Solar Vapour Generator” cleans or desalinates water by using the heat converted from sunlight.
India successfully test fired Prithvi Supersonic Interceptor Missile
India on 1st March 2017 successfully test fired the Prithvi supersonic interceptor missile. The missile was test fired by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) from the Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha Coast. The enemy missile was fired from the Interim Test Range (ITR) at Chandipur in Odisha. With Prithvi India has become the fourth country in the world to has a ballistic missile defence program.
PERSONS IN NEWS
BSF gets first Woman Field Officer in Tanushree Pareek
The Border Security Force (BSF) on 25 March 2017 received its first woman field officer after a convocation Ceremony conducted in the BSF academy at Tekanpur in Madhya Pradesh Gwalior Tanushree Pareek, a resident of Rajasthan, She led the passing out parade at the BSF Academy as the first woman field officer. Pareek started training last year in a 52 – week Assistant Commandant training programme with the 40th batch of the BSF academy.
A). APPOINTMENTS
UN appoints David Beasley to head World Food Programme
United Nations Chief Antonio Guterres has appointed former South Carolina Governor David Beasley to head the Rome based World Food Programme (WFP). Beasley will run the affairs of the World’s largest humanitarian organization, serving more than 90 million beneficiaries in 80 countries. He will replace another American, Ertharin Cousin, who has been the WFP executive director since 2012.
Chandrakala as Swachh Bharat Mission Director
District Magistrate and collector of Meerut, B. Chandrakala had served as district magistrate in various Uttarpradesh cities prior to her current posting. She was highly praised for her work in the state. She has now become the Director of “Swachh Bharat Mission” and deputy secretary, Ministry of Drinking water and sanitation She is well-known for taking tough stand against corrupt practices.
Randeep Guleria appointed as Director of AIIMS, New Delhi
The Renowned Pulmonologist Randeep Guleria recently appointed as the Director of All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS). The appointment was made by the Appointment Committee of Cabinet (ACC), headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Dr. Guleria has been appointed as Director, AIIMS for five years. Dr. Guleria was succeeded Dr. MC Mishra.
Ankur Khanna appointed as Chief Financial Officer of ICC
Ankur Khanna was appointed as the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of International Cricket Council (ICC). Khanna will join the ICC by the end of March 2017. He will relocate to the ICC headquarters in Dubai. Presently he is serving Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Airasia India, the post he had held for the last 12 months.
Snapdeal Names Jason Kothari as new Free Charge CEO
Jason Kothari was appointed as Chief Executive Officer of Free charge by Indian e-commerce company Snapdeal CEO, Kunal Bahl on March 20, 2017. Kothari is succeder of Govind Rajan who resign his job last month. He is currently working as the Chief Strategy Officer of Snapdeal since January 2017. Prior to this he has worked in Housing. Com.
Trivendra Singh Rawat to be Next CM of Uttarakhand
BJP National secretary and in charge of Jharkhand. Trivendra Singh Rawat will be next CM of Uttarakhand. He name was announced by the party following a meeting of the legislative group in Uttarakhand, which took place in the presence of central party observers Narendra Tomar and Saroj Pandey. The BJP Parliamentary board had earlier authorised party national president Amit Shah to take a final decision on the next Chief Minister.
Jwala Gutta appointed as a member of SAI Governing Body
India’s most successful doubles specialist Jwala Gutta has been appointed a member of governing body of Sports Authority of India (SAI) The 14-time national champion said she is looking forward to play her role in the development of sports in the country. The two-time Olympian Jwala, who has won the bronze medal at the 2011 World Championship said, the first meeting will be held on March 28 in Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.
Manhar Valji as Chairperson of Safai Karamcharis
Manhar Valji as Chairperson of the National Commission for Safai Karamcharis. Along with two members-Manju Dealer and Dalip Kallu assumed office on 16 March 2017. The Commission consists of a Chairperson, a vice-Chairperson and five members. Among them at least one of the members shall be a Women.
Justice Sharma sworn in as Upa Lokayukta of Assam
Former Judge of the Guwahati High Court Chittaranjan Sharma appointed as Assam’s Upalokayukta by Governor Banwarilal Purohit recently. Lokayukta is an anti corruption Ombudsman appointed in states. For the very first time the Maharashtra state has been initiated Lokayukta in the year 1971. At Present the Lokayukta system is functioning in 17 states.
Amarinder Singh takes Oath as Punjab CM
Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee (PPCC) Chief Capt Amarinder Singh took Oath as New CM on 16 March, 2017. This occasion was held at the Raj was held at the Raj Bhavan in Chandigarh. The Oath of office was administered by Punjab Governor VP Singh Badnore. This was the captain Amarinder second stint as Punjab CM. Navjot Singh Sidhu & Manpreet Singh Badal were also take Oath as cabinet ministers along with Amarinder Singh.
President appoints Chief Justices in four High Courts
President Pranab Mukherjee recently appointed Chief Justices for High Courts in Kerala, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh and Jharkhand. Hemant Gupta was appointed as the CJ of Madhya Pradesh High Court. Before this appointment, he was serving as the Acting CJ of Patna High Court. Acting CJ of Jharkhand High Court Pk Mohanty was appointed as the CJ of Jharkhand it self. Justice, Navniti Prasad, a judge of Patna High Court was appointed as the CJ of Kerala High Court. Acting CJ of Chhattisgarh High Court.
Narendra Kumar as CWC’s New Head
Shri Narendra Kumar, an officer of Central Water Engineering Service (1979 batch) has assumed the charge of Chairman, Central Water Commission (CWC). He has served in various positions in CWC as Asst Director in Design Organisation, Deputy Director in Project Appraisal Directorate and Director in Dam Safety Organisation and Project Monitoring Directorate. From 2009 to 2011, he served as Chief Engineer, Brahmaputra and Barak Basin, Shillong.
Manohar Parrikar appointed as Goa new Chief Minister
BJP leader Manohar Parrikar resigned as the Defence Minister of India and will be taking oath as the Goa new Chief Minister at 5 PM on 14 March. Goa governor Mridula Sinha on 12 March appointed Parrikar as the new Chief Minister of Goa. It is still not clear who will be replacing him as the Defence Minister of India. Parrikar is not yet a member of legislative assembly, and hence, has to contest a poll in the next six months.
B.P. Kanungo appointed as RBI Deputy Governor
The Union Govt appointed B.P. Kanungo as a deputy governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He will took the charge on 3 April, after present deputy governor R.Gandhi retirement. Kanungo is a career central banker and was appointed as an RBI executive director on 1st March 2016. Earlier, he has also held the positions of regional director at the Jaipur and Kolkata offices of the Reserve Bank.
KMPG appoints William Bill Thomas as Global Chairman
William Bill Thomas has been elected as the Global Chairman of Netherlands based KMPG International for a four-year term. Thomas will take charge from John B. Veihmeyer on October 1, 2017. Presently he is working as Chairman of KMPG’s American Region since 2014 and has been a member of the Global Board since 2009.
Pradeep Nair as Regional Director for India, Nepal and Sri Lanka to Ford Foundation
The Ford Foundation appointed Pradeep Nair as regional director for India, Nepal and Sri Lanka. As regional director, Nair will guide the foundation’s operations out of New Delhi. He will assume his new position at the end of March, Succeeding David Hulse. Nair holds an MBA in Finance from Karnataka University, an engineering degree in electronics form Bharathiar University.
Harn Ohlmeyer appointed as CFO of Adidas
Harn Ohlmeyer was recently appointed as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Adidas with effect from May 2017. He will succeed Robin Stalker, who served the post for 16 years. Presently Ohlmeyer is serving as the Head of the global e Commerce business of Adidas. From 2014 to 2016, he held additional responsibility as SVP sales strategy and Excellence. He took over as the Head of eCommerce business of Adidas in 2011.
Donald Tusk re-elected as President of European Council
Donald Tusk on 9 March 2017 was appointed to a second term as president of the European Council, one of the European Union’s governing bodies. He has been serving as the president of the European Council since 1 December 2014. Before that, he served as the Prime Minister of Poland from 2007 to 2014. He was the first Prime Minister to be re-elected since the fall of communism in Poland.
Amjad Hussain B.Sial assumes charge of new Secretary-General of SAARC
Pakistan’s seasoned diplomat Amjad Hussain B sial as assumed office as the new secretary General of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). Sail has assumed charge of the Office of Secretary General of SAARC from March 1, 2017. He has succeeded Nepal’s Arjun Bahadur Thapa, who was appointed the Secretary-General in 2014.
Kripa Bishnoi Appointed as International Match Referee
Kripa Shankar Bishnoi, a former Indian Wrestler has been appointed as an International Match Referee by United World Wrestling (UWW), the sport’s global governing body. Bishnoi Joined the long list of Indian referees at the international panel after clearing the examination for the Referees Courses, which was held in 2016 by UWW at Dortmund, Germany, Bishnoi was selected by the Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) for the annual training course for match referees conducted by the UWW.
J.S. Deepak India’s Ambassador to World Trade Organisation
Telecom secretary J.S. Deepak on 1 March 2017 was named India’s next Ambassador to the World Trade organization (WTO). The appointment will be effective from 1 June 2017. The World Trade Organisation is a global international Organisation dealing with the rules of trade between nations. Deepak Served for the Organisation from 1 June 2017 till the date of his superannuation, which is 31 July 2018.
Amina J Mohammed Sworn in as UN Deputy Secretary General
Amina J Mohammed on 28 February 2017 was appointed as the Deputy Secretary General of the United Nations (UN). Mohammed, a former Environment Minister of Nigeria, was appointed by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres to the second highest position at the UN. She resigned from Nigerian Federal Executive council on the 24 February 2017.
Sunit Mullick appointed as Chief Secretary of Maharashtra
Sumit Mullick, a 1982 batch IAS Officer, was appointed as the Chief Secretary of Maharashtra on 28 February 2017. He succeeds Swadheen Kshatriya. Kshatriya, the incumbent chief secretary of the state, was due for retirement on 31 January 2017, but was given a month’s extension. At, present, Mullick is the senior most bureaucrat of the state and will retire in April 2018.
Kabir Bedi appointed as honorary Ambassador of Sight Savers
Noted film actor Kabir Bedi was appointed as the honorary brand ambassador of Sight savers on 1st March 2017. It was a global Organisation working to prevent avoidable blindness. Six blind girls from Madhya Pradesh, who had participated and won medals in the 5th National Blind and Deaf Judo Competition held in Gurgaon in January were felicitated by Kabir Bedi and SY Quraishi, honorary chairman of the India unit of the Organisation.
Barman appointed as Director of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy
D.R. Doley Barman on 28 February 2017 was appointed as the Director of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel National Police Academy, Hyderabad. At present, Barman is working as the Director of the North East Police Academy, Shillong in Meghalaya. Barman is a senior Indian Police Service Officer. A 1986 batch Jammu & Kashmir cadre, she replaces Aruna M.Bahuguna who is an Andhra Pradesh Cadre of 1979 batch.
B). RESIGNS
Rowsell shand Announces Retirement for International cycling
Two times Olympic Gold medalist Joanna Rowsell Shand announced her retirement from International cycling. The 28-year old track cyclist won gold in the Women’s team pursuit at London Olympics 2012 and Rio Olympics 2016. Rowsell Shand was a five times World Champion and four-time European Champion.
Shashank Manohar resigns from ICC Chairman
Former BCCI boss Shashank Manohar resigned from the post of ICC Chairman on 15 March, 2017 after holding the position for just eight months. Manohar said his decision was based on personal reasons. The 59-year-old Manohar mailed his resignation letter to ICC’s CEO Dave Richards on without clarifying the exact reason for his sudden move to end what was to be a two year tenure.
Manipur CM Ibobi Singh resigns, Biren Singh as Next CM
The incumbent Chief Minister of Manipur Ibobi Singh resigned from the post on March 13, 2017 giving way for formation of a new ministry under the BJP. The congress leader Ibobi announced to resign after BJP named Biren Singh as the party’s leader to form the government with majority win. The BJP’s legislative leader Biren Singh will take oath as Manipur’s new CM on 15 March 2017 along with his council ministers.
South Korean President removed from Office
South Korea’s Constitutional court on 10 March, 2017 voted Unanimously to remove the country’s President Park-Geun-hye, from office. With the impeachment, park becomes the first South Korean President to be removed from office. Park’s successor must be elected with in 60 days. At present, Prime Minister Hwang Kyo-ann is serving as the acting president of the country.
C). DEATHS
South African Anti-Apartheid Activist, Ahmed Kathrada Dies at 87
Veteran Indian -Origin South African anti apartheid activist Ahmed Kathrada, who was one of Nelson Mandela’s closest aides. Ahmed was died on 29, March at a hospital in Johannesburg, at the age of 87. Ahmed was among those tried and jailed alongside Mandela in the Rivonia trial in 1964. Ahmad spent 26 years and three months in prison, 18 of which were on Robben Island.
Former Punjab Minister & SAD Leader Gurdev Singh Badal Dies
Former Punjab Agriculture Minister Gurdev Singh Badal Passed away on March 28,2017 at Dayanand Medical college and Hospital, Ludhiana, He was 85. Gurdev was a senior Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) leader and a member of Punjab Legislative Assembly from the Panjgrain Constituency in Jalandhar district. He had been 5 times MLA from this constituency, winning others only in 1997 and 2002.
Eminent Jurist T.R. andhyarujina Passes away
T.R. Andhyarujina was an Indian lawyer and Jurist. He was a designated senior advocate and Practiced at the Supreme Court of India. He was the Solicitor General of India from 1996 to 1998. Prior to that he was the Advocate General of Maharashtra from 1993 to 1995. He specialized in the field of constitutional law, human rights, public law and commercial law. He was the chairman of the committee on Banking Laws appointed by Govt of India in 1998.
Noted Tamil Writer Ashokamitran passes away
Noted Tamil writer Thiagarajan, passed away on 23 March 2017 following a brief illness in Chennai. He was 85. He was popularly known as Ashokamitran. A well known novelist and essayist, Ashokamitran was noted for his subtlety and refreshing creativity in expression. Many of his works have been translated into a number of languages such as English, Hindi, Malayalam, Telugu and some European languages.
Pioneer of Rock ‘n’ Roll, Chuck Berry Dies at 90
American guitarist, singer and song writer, Chuck Berry who is recognized as one of the pioneers of rock ‘n’ roll music died at the age of 90. He received a Lifetime Achievement Grammy Award in 1984 and was among the first inductees to the Rock ‘n’ Roll Hall of Fame in 1986. Berry was one of rock ‘n’ roll’s most influential guitarists.
Renowned Meteorologist Dev Raj Sikka Passes Away
Renowned Meteorologist and former director of the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (Pune) Dev Raj Sikka passed away. He was 85. He is famously known as Monsoon Man and the Father of Indian Meteorology. He was first proposed a link between the EL Nino Phenomenon and the Indian Monsoon in 1982, but that time less importance was given to it.
Former racing champion Ashwin Sundar dies
Former National racing champion Ashwin Sundar and his wife Niveditha died in a car accident at MRC Nagar in Chennai. The car in which the two were travelling caught fire after it hit a roadside tree. Sundar and his wife charred to death inside the vehicle. Sundar had won the national title in car racing and two wheeler events on several occasions.
Noted Malayalam Film Director Diphan Dies at 45
Well known Malayalam film director Diphan passed away on 13 March, 2017 in Kochi. He was died after suffering from liver ailment. He was 45. Diphan has directed seven films including puthiya mukham, D Company, Hero and Leader, Dolphins and SIM, His latest film, Sathya, featuring Jayaram and Roma in the lead role, is yet to be released.
Nandyal MLA Bhuma dies of heart attack
Three-time Member of Parliament and sitting MLA of Nandyal in Andhra Pradesh, Bhuma Nagireddy 53, died of massive cardiac arrest on 12th March. As the MLA’s condition was serious first he was sent to local private hospital, later the condition was critical, he was given compulsory Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and Ventilator support before being rushed to a hospital at Nandyal. He did not respond to medication and was declared dead.
British F1 legend, John surtees Dies at 83
John Surtees, the only racer to win both Formula One and Motorbikes 500 CC category World Championship died on March 10, 2017 in London. He was 83. The former world champion won four 500 CC world titles 1956, 1958, 1959, and 1960. As well as three consecutive 350 CC Championships 1958, 1959 and 1960. He was signed by Ferrari in 1963 and won the World Championship with Italian team in 1964 at the Nurburgring and one at Monza.
Veteran Journalist Arvind Padmanabhan Passes Away
The Veteran Journalist Arvind Padmanabhan, who was associated with the news agency IANS as an Executive Editor has died of cardiac arrest in New Delhi on 8th March. Arvind has taken his last breath at the Holy Family Hospital in New Delhi. He was associated with IANS for a long time, he had jointed IANS in 1999. Although, he has also worked with The Times of India. TV 18 and PTI.
Former Lok Sabha Speaker Rabi Ray Passes Away
Rabi Ray, former Speaker of Lok Sabha, passed away on 6 March 2017 after a prolonged illness in Cuttack. He was 91. Ray was also an eminent socialist Politician, a Gandhian, and also served as a former Union Minister. Under the leadership of Ram Manohar Lohia, Ray founded the Socialist Party in Orissa in 1956.
Thomas E Starzl, Pioneering liver surgeon passes away
Dr. Thomas E Starzl, a surgeon who performed the first successful liver transplant in 1967 on a human patient, passed away on 4th March 2017 in Pittsburgh. He was 90. Dr. Starzl death was announced by the University of Pittsburgh. He had been affiliated with the University since 1980. He was an expert on organ transplants. He is often referred to as “the father of modern transplantation’.
Former IFS, MP Syed Shahabuddin dies at 82
Former IFS, MP Syed Shahabuddin dies at the age of 82n on 4th March. Shahabuddin breathed his last at a hospital in Noida. He died following a prolonged illness. Shahabuddin had strongly stood against the destruction of the Babri Masjid during his time. He was also the leader of the Babri Action Committee. Shahabuddin Served three terms from 1979-1996 as an M.P.
French Football legend Raymond Kopa passes Away
French Football legend Raymond Kopa who won the European cup three times with Real Madrid in the 1950’s. He was died in pairs on 3rd March after a prolonged illness. The French Football League announced that a minute’s silence would be observed before all weekend games in honour of the man who rose from a poor mining family in Northern France to become one of Europe’s greatest players.
Popular Gujarati Writer Tarak Mehta Passes Away
Noted Gujarati play writer and humorist Tarak Mehta, who was inspired the immensely popular Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah, passed away on March 1, 2017 at the age of 87. He was reportedly suffering from prolonged illness. Mehta was best known for his popular Gujarati Column “Duniya Ne Undha Chasma”, which is said to be the inspiration behind SAB TV’s show Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah. In 2015, he was awarded the “Padma Shri”.
D). VISITORS
Dalai Lama inaugurated 3-day Buddhist Conference in Bihar
The 3-day International Buddhist Conference began at Nava Nalanda Mahavihara, Rajgir in Nalanda district in Bihar, recently. The event was jointly inaugurated the much respected religious leader Dalai Lama and the Union Minister of Tourism and Culture, Mahesh Sharma. Over 1000 delegates from 35 countries including Indonesia, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Singapore were participating in this event.
E). MISCELLANEOUS
Amitabh launches World’s First Mobile APP on Breast Health
The Superstar of Bollywood Amitabh Bachchan launched the World’s First Mobile App on Breast Health. He was launched the mobile app at an event organised by Mumbai based Ushalakshmi Breast Cancer Foundation. Both IOs & Android versions of the app which were available in Apple and Google Play store for free download. It aims to empower the nation about every aspect of Breast cancer and Benign non cancer Breast Health issues in 12 languages.
Guinness Record to “Largest Tree Hug” Programme
Tata -DAV School at Mithapur in Gujarat has achieved the Guinness World Record for the “Largest Tree Hug” programme. The initiative saw the active participation of 1316 school students and staff to make it a success. The objective of this initiative was to spread the message of conservation of natural resources and the need to nurture the environment. The world title of the “Largest Tree Hug” was earlier with Korea but, it is now in India’s account.
Thai Model crowned Transgender beauty Queen Title
Thailand’s Model, Jiratchaya Sirimongkol Nawin was crowned Miss International Queen 2016. The 12th edition of the beauty pageant hold in pattayacity. Thailand, Miss International Queen began in the year 2004 and has been held annually in pattaya city since then and is considered the largest and the most popular transgender pageant of the world. The beauty pageant brings together transgender people from around the world and is held to help transgender women feel more accepted by society.
Vijayalakshmi sets new music world record
Playback singer Vaikom Vijayalakshmi recently set a new world record by playing the maximum number of songs in the shortest time on a single string musical instrument. She played various classical and film songs on the Gayatri Veena Continuously for over five hours and in the process became the first person to achieve the feat.
Delhi Metro Enters in Limca World Records
Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has entered the LImca Book of World Records for erecting 200 U-shaped girders. DMRC successfully executed the task of erecting 200 U-shaped girders on the Noida Greater Noida Corridor in May 2016. This is the maximum number of U-Shaped girders ever launched on any metro corridor in India with in a month. Thu Delhi Metro Enters in Limca Book of World Records.
PLACES IN NEWS
Sri Lanka wins Most “Popular Tourism Destination Award”
Sri Lanka has bagged the Most “Popular Tourism Destination Award. The island nation won the prestigious award for the second consecutive year, which is testament to its growing popularity among Chinese travel enthusiasts. China has been Sri Lanka’s second largest source market for tourism since 2014.
India’s tallest Tricolor Flag hoisted at Attari in Punjab
The tallest National Flag in the country measuring 360 feet was hoisted on 5th March, 2017 at the Attari-Wagah joint check post in Punjab, Earlier. The record was held by the one in Ranchi which is 293 feet high. Noe, it is creased
Thiruvananthapuram Ranks Best city in Urban Governance Survey
According to the fourth edition of the Annual Survey of India’s city systems 2016 Thiruvananthapuram ranks best city. The survey by Bengaluru based advocacy group Janaagraha centre for Citizenship and Democracy. Thiruvananthapuram Capital of Kerala has been ranked as the top Indian city to manage urban governance. It was also ranked No.1 in 2015 was evaluated against 21 major cities across 18 states of India.
JNU wins Visitor’s Award for Best University 2017
Jawaharlal Nehru University has won the annual Visitor’s Award for the Best University of 2017. Further, the award for ‘Research’ went jointly to Dr Shyam Sunder from Banaras Hindu University and professor Niranjan Karak from Tezpur University. Notably, the awards were instituted in 2014 to encourage healthy competition among central Universities and to motivate them to adopt best global practices.
BOOKS IN NEWS
Michael clarke’s launches his autobiography “My Story”
Former Australia Cricket captain Michael Clarke has launched his autobiography named ‘My Story” in Kolkata in the presence of former India Cricket captain Saurav Ganguly. This book was triggered by how he was affected by “Phil Hughes” death when India were touring Australia in 2014-15. He was retired from all forms of cricket after the final test of the Ashes Series from August 2015.
COMMITTEES
Soumya Swaminathan appointed in UN Experts Committee
UN secretary General Antonio Guterres has included Director of Indian Council of Medical Research Soumya Swaminathan in the high level group set up by him to provide expertise on and coordinate the global fight against antimicrobial resistance. MS Swaminathan is also secretary in the Department of Health Research in Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
INS Tillanchang Commissioned by Indian Navy
Indian Navy has commissioned INS Tillanchang at Karwar, Karnataka. It is a Water Jet Fast Attack Craft (WJFAC). It is the third ship of four follow-on WJFAC built by the Kolkata based Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE). The first two ships INS Tarmugli, INS Tihayu which were commissioned in 2016. These ships will play a vital role in light of India’s security environment. They are designed to take on both conventional and asymmetric threats.
RBI Establishes Committee to Review Cyber Threats
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has set up an 11 member Inter-disciplinary standing Committee on Cyber Security on February 28, 2017. The Committee will be chaired by RBI Executive Director Meena Hemachandra. The Panel has the freedom to co-opt more experts in future and also operate through a frame work of subcommittees to examine specific issues.
IMPORTANT DAYS & DATES
World Theatre Day – March 27
World Theatre Day was initiated 1961 by the International Theatre Institute. It is celebrated annually on the 27th March by ITI centers and international theatre community. Various national and international theatre events are organized to mark this occasion. In honour of World Theatre Day 55th Celebration, the annual International Message will be given by French Theatre and movie actress Isabelle Huppert.
World Tuberculosis Day – 24 March
Every year, on 24 March, TB Alert Joins hundreds of other Organisations around the World in raising awareness of TB. World TB Day Marks the day in 1882, when Robert Koch (Scientist) identified the bacteria that cause tuberculosis. World wide, nine million people get sick with TB annually. The theme of World Tuberculosis Day 2017 is “Unite to end TB leave no one behind”.
World Meteorological Day 2017 Observed Globally
The World Meteorological Day 2017 was observed globally on 23 March 2017 with the theme “Understanding Clouds”. The Day is organised every year by World Meteorological Organization (WMO) and is celebrated globally. The theme highlights the enormous importance of clouds for weather climate and water. It showcases the essential contribution of National Meteorological and Hydrological Services to the safety and well being of society.
March 22 World Water Day
The World Water Day (WWD) was observed globally on 22 March 2017 with the theme why waste water? The year’s theme for the World Water day focuses on wastewater and ways to reduce and reuse as over so percent of all the wastewater. The theme highlights that wastewater flows from homes, cities, industries, and agriculture to nature. The theme seeks to improve the collection and treatment of wastewater and safe usability of the same.
21 March – International Day of Forests
The United National General Assembly proclaimed 21 March the International Day of Forests (IDF) in 2012. The Day Celebrates and raises awareness of the importance of all types of forests, on each International Day of Forests, countries are encouraged to undertake local, national and international efforts to organize activities involving forests and trees, such as tree planting campaigns. The Theme of 2017 is Forests and Energy.
March 20 – World Sparrow Day 2017
The World Sparrow Day was observed across the World on 20 March 2017. The day was created with an aim to raise awareness about the house sparrow and then other common birds to urban environments. The first World Sparrow Day was celebrated in 2010 across the World. World Sparrow Day is an international initiative of the Nature Forever Society of India in Collaboration with several national international Organisations including the ECO-Sys Action Foundation (France).
World Consumer Rights Day-March 15
World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) is observed every year on March 15. The WCRD was first celebrated in 1983 and became an important annual occasion for mobilizing the citizen action. It solidarity within the international consumer movement. The day is an opportunity for promoting the basic rights of all consumers. The day is organised by Consumers International (CI), which is the World Federation of consumer groups.
International Women’s Day March 8
On March 8, People around the world observed International Women’s Day (IWD). It is a global day celebrating the political, social Economical, cultural and Educational achievements of women. The theme of International Women’s Day (IWD) 2017 campaign is “Be Bold For Change”. IWD was only adopted by the United Nations in 1975, it was marked for the first time in New York in the early 1900’s.
3 March – World Wildlife Day
The World Wildlife Day (WWD) was observed across the world on 3 March 2017 with the theme “Listen to the Young Voices”. The day is seen as an opportunity to celebrate the many beautiful and varied forms of wild fauna and flora. WWD 2017 gives us a new opportunity to provide incentives to the youth to tackle conservation issues. It is also an opportunity for them to engage with one another and together forge and inspired path to a better world.
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