Saturday, 25 June 2016

Jitu Rai leaves 50m disappointment behind, wins 10m silver in World Cup


PUNE: A 10th place finish in 50m pistol qualification on Friday was compensated by a silver in the 10m air pistol by Jitu Rai as the Indian secured a podium finish at the ISSF World Cup in Baku, Azerbaijan on Saturday. This was Jitu's sixth World Cup medal overall. Jitu had an average start to the qualification round, as he totaled 95 in the first series. But he stabilized soon and shot impressive series

Good news for India: Brexit to take Fed rate hike off the agenda in ’16


NEW DELHI: The US Federal Reserve, which maintained status-quo on policy rates at the fourth Federal Open Market Committee meeting in Washington earlier this month, is unlikely to hike rates any more in calendar year 2016 after 'Brexit'. Shockwaves travelled across global financial markets on Friday after the outcome of the UK referendum, in which voters decided to leave the European Union.

Nokia appoints Sanjay Malik India head


Nokia on Friday announced the appointment of Sanjay Malik as the head of Indian market, effective August 1. Malik is currently Head of Network Implementation (NI) at Nokia Global Services and is credited with efficiently driving growth and delivering strong performance both in terms of revenue and operational efficiency, the company said in a statement. In his new role, he will lead customer

Euro Cup 2016: Knock out stage begins in France today


The knock-out stage of Euro Cup 2016 begins from today in France. In today's fixtures, Switzerland will take on Poland, Wales will play against Northern Ireland, and Croatia will face Portugal. No side won all three group games, while many of the less-fancied sides troubled their much fancied opponent. 
1. Switzerland vs Poland 

BRAHMOS integrates cruise missile on Su-30


BrahMos Aerospace on Saturday successfully demonstrated the integration of the world's most formidable supersonic cruise missile system BRAHMOS on the frontline strike fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force Sukhoi-30. With Saturday's successful flight, the Brahmos air version programme now inches closer towards actual test firing when a 2.5-ton BRAHMOS air-to-ground missile will be

Environment emergency imposed in Chile's Santiago area


Chilean authorities declared an environmental emergency for the Santiago metropolitan region this week, forcing more than 900 industries to temporarily shut down and about 40 percent of the capital's 1.7 million cars off the roads. The Environment Ministry said they were facing unusual conditions, with one of the driest Junes in over 40 years. The emergency, the first since 1999, will be in place for

Celebrating Indus at Sindhu Darshan Mela


The four-day long Sindhu Darshan festival is underway in Leh where colourful programs are being organised. The 20th annual Sindhu Darshan Mela commenced on Thursday with the inauguration of Sindhu Bhawan at Choglamsar Leh by Senior BJP leader LK Advani. The main reason behind the celebration of Sindhu Darshan Festival is to endorse the Indus River as an icon of the communal

Madras High Court dismisses petition against TNCA election


The Madras High Court has dismissed a petition filed against conducting election in the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) on Saturday, alleging that the association has not complied with the recommendations of the Justice RM Lodha Committee Report. The petition was filed by S Srinivason, a Chennai resident. The division bench comprising Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice R

Coexistence of superconductivity and charge density waves observed


High-Tc superconductors were discovered 30 years ago: A class of ceramic metal oxide materials was found to pass electrical current without energy losses. In contrast to conventional superconductors that have to be cooled almost to absolute zero, this property appears already at comparably high temperatures. In prototypical yttrium barium copper oxide (YBaCuO), the transition temperature is 92

Nanoscientists develop the 'ultimate discovery tool'


The discovery power of the gene chip is coming to nanotechnology. A Northwestern University research team is developing a tool to rapidly test millions and perhaps even billions or more different nanoparticles at one time to zero in on the best particle for a specific use. When materials are miniaturized, their properties -- optical, structural, electrical, mechanical and chemical -- change,

Nanotechnology and math deliver two-in-one punch for cancer therapy resistance


Math, biology and nanotechnology are becoming strange, yet effective bed-fellows in the fight against cancer treatment resistance. Researchers at the University of Waterloo and Harvard Medical School have engineered a revolutionary new approach to cancer treatment that pits a lethal combination of drugs together into a single nanoparticle. Their work, published online on June 3, 2016 in the leading

China-backed AIIB approves first loans


BEIJING: The China-backed Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) approved its first four loans totalling over half a billion dollars, it announced Friday, as it joined forces with putative rivals to finance projects across Asia. The Beijing-based AIIB has been viewed by some as a foe to the World Bank and the Philippines-based Asian Development Bank (ADB), which was founded in 1966. But three of its

Brahmos firepower’s Sukhoi aircraft for IAF


NEW DELHI: BrahMos Aerospace today successfully demonstrated the integration of the world’s most formidable supersonic cruise missile system BRAHMOS on Su-30MKI frontline strike fighter of the Indian Air Force (IAF). The demonstration flight, carried out at HAL Nasik, involved carriage of BRAHMOS weapon on the long-range Sukhoi-30 fighter,giving a major fillip to the BRAHMOS air-

Nasa Technology Reveals Bacteria's Role in Breast Cancer


Using planetary protection techniques that ensure Nasa spacecraft do not contaminate other worlds, researchers, including one of Indian-origin, have found a link between bacteria in breast ductal fluid and breast cancer. The breast ductal system contains the glands that produce milk and naturally secretes a substance called "nipple aspirate fluid". For the study, the researchers at Nasa's Jet Propulsion

After field visits, Centre to rank 700 villages adopted by MPs


NEW DELHI: Two years after Prime Minister Narendra Modi unveiled the ambitious Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY), the members of Parliament will get a report on how they have fared. The rural development ministry is working on a ranking of 700 villages adopted by MPs in the first phase of the programme. The report card will include details such as the projects initiated in the village, the project

Mehbooba Mufti wins Anantnag by-election by 11,500 votes


ANANTNAG: Mehbooba Mufti wins Anantnag by-election by 11,500 votes. Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti on Saturday won the Anantnag by-election by nearly 11,550 votes over her nearest Congress rival Hilal Ahmad Shah. Peoples Democratic Party President Mehbooba polled nearly

World’s 400 richest people Lose $127 billion on Brexit


The world's 400 richest people lost $127.4 billion Friday as global equity markets reeled from the news that British voters elected to leave the European Union. The billionaires lost 3.2 percent of their total net worth, bringing the combined sum to $3.9 trillion, according to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index. The biggest decline belonged to Europe's richest person, Amancio Ortega, who lost more than $6 billion,

Government notifies changes in FDI policy


NEW DELHI: The government today notified changes in the foreign direct investment (FDI) policy in sectors including pharmaceuticals, defence and single-brand retail. These decisions were announced earlier in the week with a view to make India more investor friendly and an attractive FDI destination. "The decision will take immediate effect," the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP)

Andhra Pradesh joins UDAY to derive Rs 4,400 crore benefits


NEW DELHI: Andhra Pradesh has joined the Centre's debt revival scheme for state power distribution companies. An overall net benefit of approximately Rs 4,400 crore will accrue to the state by opting to participate in Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana or Uday, by way of cheaper funds, reduction in AT&C and transmission losses, interventions in energy efficiency, coal reforms, etc. during the period of

India signs MoU kick-starting the process of its accession to SCO


TASHKENT: India today signed Memorandum of Obligations - a key document - kick starting the process of its accession to the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, a powerful security grouping increasingly seen as a counterweight to NATO. The document was signed by Secretary (East) Ministry of External Affairs Sujata Mehta at the SCO summit which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra

Raghuram Rajan wants central banks to keep off competitive devaluation


MUMBAI: Reserve Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan today asked central banks across the globe to desist from currency depreciation to create competitive advantage in the wake of Britain's exit from the European Union. "Currencies do help adjustment and some movement is warranted... what I have been concerned about is intervention in a big way in the currency so as to move it in a particular

ADB approves $500 million loan for bridge over Ganga River in Bihar


The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved a 500 million dollars loan to build a bridge across the Ganga River in Bihar. The loan funds will be used to build 9.8 km road bridge in Bihar on the Ganga River. On completion of the project it will be the India’s longest river bridge. Key Facts The new river bridge will provide a vital transport link between the northern and southern parts of the state and

Indian-origin lawyer Yasmin Sooka to chair UN commission on human rights in South Sudan


South African Indian-origin lawyer Yasmin Sooka has been appointed to chairman of three member UN commission (committee) to monitor the human rights situation in South Sudan. The committee was constituted by the United Nations Human Right Council (UNHRC) resolution 31/20 which was adopted by consensus, the 47-member body. Key Facts Other two members of the committee are Kenneth R.

Freida to get International Icon Award at IIFA


Slumdog Millionaire star Freida Pinto will make her debut at the International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) gala in Madrid. The US-based Indian actress will be honoured with International Icon award at the 17th edition of the gala. IIFA — often known as Bollywood’s Oscars — is held every year to honour the best of Hindi cinema. A source from the IIFA team confirmed that Freida will be getting the

Nagaland launches women helpline ‘181’


Nagaland Governor PB Acharya has launched women helpline – 181 in the premises of District Hospital Dimapur in Nagaland and also inaugurated Sakhi, a one stop Centre, intended to support women affected by violence both in private and public spaces under one roof. He highlighted the multiple roles played by women as home makers, guardians of children and the hard work put in by them in every

IIT Madras breaks into the list of Top 50 Asian Universities


Chennai: IIT Madras breaks into the list of Top 50 Asian Universities in QS-Asia rankings for 2016."We are delighted to be listed in the TOP 50 ASIAN UNIVERSTIES in QS-Asia rankings for 2016. We are also encouraged by our steep rise from the 56th position in last year's QS-Asia rankings to the 43rd position this year. We have been focused on growing and improving our research, teaching and overall

Dell and Shiv Nadar University Sign MoU to Drive Research and Innovation


New Delhi: Dell and Shiv Nadar University today announced that they have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate and drive excellence in research and innovation. Through this partnership, Dell has set up two laboratories jointly with the University to integrate theoretical concepts with practical experience. Under this agreement, Dell will engage with faculty members at the

President of India to confer national awards for outstanding services in the field of Drug Prevention


New Delhi: President of India will confer the National Awards to the organizations and the individuals who have shown exemplary contribution in the field of Drug Prevention on 26th June, 2016 at a ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, the Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, Ministers of State for Social, Shri Krishan Pal Gurjar & Shri Vijay Sampla

Kousik hogs award-night limelight


President Srinivasan says TNCA is a loyal, staunch member of the BCCI. Pace-bowling all-rounder J. Kousik won the Bishnuram Medhi Trophy for the ‘cricketer of the year’ at the 86th annual day awards function of the Tamil Nadu Cricket Association (TNCA) here on Friday. Speaking on the occasion, TNCA president N. Srinivasan appreciated the commitment and dedication of the association’s office-

Friday, 24 June 2016

Colombia government, FARC rebels sign ceasefire



The Colombian government and the leftist FARC (Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia) rebels on 23 June 2016 signed a historic ceasefire deal. This ceasefire deal helped in ending more than five decades of conflict, which is regarded as one of the oldest wars of history. The signing ceremony held at Havana was witnessed by Colombian president Juan Manuel Santos, FARC chief Timoleón

CENTRE RETURNS 14 BILLS TO DELHI GOVT


Tension between the Centre and the AAP-led Delhi Government is set to escalate as the Union Home Ministry has reportedly returned 14 Bills, including the important Delhi Janlokpal Bill and the Code of Criminal Procedure (Delhi Amendment) Bill, on the grounds that proper procedure was not followed before they were passed by the Assembly. “Since Delhi is not a full State and remains a Union

Day of the Seafarer 2016 observed with theme At Sea For All


25 June: Day of the Seafarer
Day of the Seafarer 2016 was observed across the world on 25 June 2016. The theme for the year is At Sea For All. The theme for the year has a clear link with the 2016 World Maritime Day theme, Shipping: indispensable to the world. The themes highlight the point that seafarers serve at sea not just

Pioneer of Indian quizzing Neil O'Brien died


Neil O'Brien, a pioneer of quizzing in India and leader of the Anglo-Indian community, died in Kolkata on 24 June 2016. He was 82. A former member of Lok Sabha, Neil O'Brien was also a three-time nominated Anglo-Indian MLA in West Bengal and an educationist.  He conducted the first well-organized, formal quiz in 1967 at Christ the King Church Parish Hall in Calcutta. He has served the

Union Cabinet approves largest-ever Spectrum Auction


Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 22 June 2016 approved the sale of all available spectrum in the country. This is the largest-ever spectrum auction in the country. The move could fetch 5.5 lakh crore rupees for the exchequer, going by the reserve price. This amount is five times higher than the revenue of 1.1 lakh rupees that government earned through the auction conducted

Sri Lankan Parliament passes Right to Information bill with amendments


Sri Lankan Parliament on 24 June 2016 unanimously passed the Right to Information (RTI) bill with amendments. The bill that seeks to restore transparency and good governance in the country was adopted without a vote in the Parliament after two days of debate. To provide for the Right of Access to Information, to specify grounds on which access may be denied, to establish the Right to

Navjot Sidhu stages a comeback into Punjab politics, nominated to state BJP core team


In a major change to the composition of the core committee of the state unit of Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Rajya Sabha MP Navjot Sidhu has been made a part of the committee even as state local bodies’ minister Anil Joshi, Sidhu’s friend-turned foe, has been dropped. The three-time Amritsar MP, Navjot Sidhu, had long been sidelined within the party’s Punjab affairs and had stopped playing an active part

BCCI announces new domestic T20 league, approves Ranji Trophy matches at neutral venues


BCCI’s four-day Conclave ended with the working committee meet of the Indian cricket board, held in Dharamsala on June 24, 2016. The working committee took the following decisions: # Appointment of Anil Kumble as Head Coach of the Indian Cricket Team was approved.  Technical Committee recommendation to hold Ranji Trophy matches at neutral venues was approved. Sponsored: Experience

PRAVIR KUMAR LIKELY TO BE ELEVATED AS OFFICIATING CHIEF SECRETARY


Agriculture Production Commissioner (APC) Pravir Kumar is likely to be elevated as officiating Chief Secretary on June 30, after the retirement of the present incumbent Alok Ranjan. The present Chief Secretary is on an extension of three months and has refused a second extension. Official sources said that Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav is yet to take a call on the next Chief Secretary, and hence a stop-

COMMITTEE SUBMITS ITS REPORT TO GUV ON KAIRANA ISSUE


A committee of saints which was went to probe the exodus of people from Kairana by the ruling SP submitted its report to Governor Ram Naik in Lucknowon Friday. The team had earlier submitted its findings to Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav. In their reports, the saints concluded that the Kairana exodus issue was part of a ploy to create communal tension in the region. The team led by Acharya Pramod

Exam-Oriented-Current-Affairs-Dated-24-06-2016-www.KICAonline.com-english


The Union Textiles Minister Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar inaugurated today, a 45-day long skill upgradation training programme for Scheduled Caste handloom weavers belonging to Sohlela Block in Bargarh district of Odisha. In the function held in the village Birjam, the Minister also gave away the certificates to pass outs of the first Handloom Entrepreneur training course. The Minister also handed

Union Textiles Minister inaugurates Training Programme for Scheduled Castes Handloom Weavers in Odisha


The Union Textiles Minister Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar inaugurated today, a 45-day long skill upgradation training programme for Scheduled Caste handloom weavers belonging to Sohlela Block in Bargarh district of Odisha. In the function held in the village Birjam, the Minister also gave away the certificates to pass outs of the first Handloom Entrepreneur training course. The Minister also handed

Six States/UTs signed 24×7 “Power For All” documents during two days states Power Ministers' Conference in Goa


Three States Mizoram, Jammu & Kashmir and Arunachal Pradesh and three Union Territories Delhi, Daman & Diu and Dadra & Nagar Haveli have signed the 24x7 “Power For All” (PFA) documents. These PFA documents were signed in presence of Shri PiyushGoyal, Minister of State (IC) for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy during two day States Power Minister’s Conference held on 16-17th

President of India to confer national awards for outstanding services in the field of Drug Prevention


The “Run” and the pledge for the mass sensitization against drug abuse to be held.  President of India will confer the National Awards to the organizations and the individuals who have shown exemplary contribution in the field of Drug Prevention on 26th June, 2016 at a ceremony at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. Shri Thaawarchand Gehlot, the Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment, Ministers of

MoU singed between RD Ministry & ISRO for geo-tagging assets


A Memorandum of Understanding was signed here between the Rural Development Ministry and ISRO, Department of Space for geo-tagging the assets created under MGNREGA in each gram panchayat. The move comes after the Prime Minister during a review meeting recently had underlined for online recording and monitoring of assets to check leakages and for effective mapping of terrain for future

India going all-out to enter NSG


As the clock is ticking towards the crucial plenary session of the Nuclear Supplier's Group in Seoul, India is making an all-out push to find a place in the elite 48-member group. While on the one hand US has been leading the support for India's membership, China's has led the opposition against India's bid. Led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, team India has launched a diplomatic blitzkrieg to win over the

Britan votes to exit EU in historic referendum


In a historic development, the UK has voted to leave the European Union after 43 years as the 'Brexit' camp on Friday took a seemingly unassailable lead over the 'Remain' camp in a down-to-wire referendum with far reaching implications for the world. 52 per cent of the Britons in Thursday's vote favoured leaving the 28-member EU, while 48 per cent supported staying in the bloc. The final national

India set to become a member of SCO


India is set to become a member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) when the security grouping meets for its summit in Uzbekistan capital Tashkent. Prime Minister Narendra Modi is in Tashkent to attend the annual Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit. During his meeting with Chinese President, he thanked China for supporting India's membership of SCO. Uzbekistan's capital,

FM attends 1st annual meeting of AIIB


Finance Minister Arun Jaitley attended the first annual meeting of the board of Governors of the $100-billion Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) while on a 5-day official visit to China. During his visit, the finance minister will also hold talks with Chinese investors and bankers to seek investment in infrastructure and other sectors in India. The finance minister will participate in different sessions of

India remains polio free, no need to fear virus strain: Nadda


Union Health Minister J P Nadda has said that India remains polio free and there is no need to panic about the Vaccine Derived Polio Virus detected in Hyderabad earlier this month. Nadda was speaking after reviewing the special immunisation drive undertaken in Hyderabad and Ranga Reddy districts in the wake of VDPV being found in Hyderabad. The strain of the polio virus was detected in laboratory

Ibrahimovic to quit international duty after Euro 2016


Sweden's superstar striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic announced on Tuesday he will retire from international football after Euro 2016."The last game with Sweden in the Euro will be my last game with Sweden. So I hope it won't be tomorrow," Ibrahimovic, 34, told a press conference ahead of Wednesday's final Group E game against Belgium in Nice. He ruled out any chance of playing at the Rio Olympics in

Kenyan president signs anti-doping measures into law


Kenya’s president signed an anti-doping amendment bill into law on today, after the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) said Kenyan legislation passed in April needed further changes if Kenya was to be declared compliant with WADA codes. “Signed the Anti-Doping 2016 (Amendment) Bill into law this morning,” President Uhuru Kenyatta said on his official Twitter account. International Olympic

BCCI announces mini IPL for September


The BCCI has decided to host a shortened version of the IPL overseas every September, starting this year, branding it the "mini IPL" or "IPL overseas". BCCI president Anurag Thakur said the final dates and format will be announced in due course. "In the month of September, the BCCI is willing to host a mini IPL or IPL overseas with all the eight teams participating," Thakur said at the end of the board's

Roman Reigns suspended for violating WWE’s drug policy


WWE has suspended Roman Reigns for 30 days for violating drug rules in its "talent wellness program". Roman Reigns, whose real name is Joseph Anoa'I, lost his World Heavyweight title a couple of days ago to Seth Rollins, who eventually lost it to Dean Ambrose at the Money in the Bank mega event. Rollins, moments after winning the championship, lost it to Ambrose, who cashed in his Money

Jasprit Bumrah achieves career best ICC ranking


Mumbai: The recently completely tour of Zimbabwe was a successful one for the young Indian unit under MS Dhoni. The team convincingly won the ODI series 3-0 and then wrapped up the T20 series string 2-1 as well, although the hosts did offer some sort of resistance in the 20 over matches. The series will certainly be a memorable one for Indian youngsters, many of whom made their debut on the

Possible solution to 'faint young Sun paradox'


In the first billion years of Earth's history, the planet was bombarded by primordial asteroids, while a faint Sun provided much less heat. A Southwest Research Institute-led team posits that this tumultuous beginning may have ultimately fostered life on Earth, particularly in terms of sustaining liquid water. "The early impacts caused temporary, localized destruction and hostile conditions for life. But at the

East Delhi to get free WiFi by December 2016


The Delhi government on Friday announced free WiFi services for East Delhi which will be made available by December 2016. "The Delhi government is set to roll out 1000 WiFi hot spot zones in East Delhi. It will be the largest public wifi project in the world," Aam Aadmi Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Ashish Khetan said in a press conference, here. "East Delhi free WiFi project will cover 571 locations.

India, UK to be partners in solar energy, nano material research


India and the United Kingdom have agreed to work together in two major initiatives in the fields of solar energy and nano material research, among other possibilities, according to Union Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences Harsh Vardhan.  The Minister had led the Indian delegation to the 5th India-UK Science and Innovation Council Meeting (SIC) held in London last week, co-chaired by

Scientists create new bio-ink for 3D printing


London, June 24 (IANS) Scientists from University of Bristol have found a new bio-ink for 3D printing with stem cells that allows printing of living tissue known as bio-printing. The new bio-ink contains two different polymer components: a natural polymer extracted from seaweed and a sacrificial synthetic polymer used in the medical industry. "Designing the new bio-ink was extremely challenging.

ePsyClinic appoints Rohit Shrivastava as its Chief Technology Officer


ePsyClinic, the online platform which provides the best of emotional and mental healthcare to clients has welcomed Rohit Shrivastava on board as Chief Technology Officer (CTO).ePsyClinic is looking forward to utilizing his experience gathered over a period of more than 15 years working in various sectors such as Health Care, Telecom, Banking, Security and eLearning to boost the technological

Samtel-HAL JV delivers 1000 ‘Multi Function Displays’ for Sukhoi 30 MKI



In a major milestone for ‘Make in India’ and indigenization program in the defence sector, Samtel HAL Display Systems (SHDS), a joint venture between Samtel Avionics Ltd. (SA) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), has accomplished the landmark of supplying 1000 units of indigenously manufactured Multi Function Displays (MFDs) to HAL for induction into frontline Sukhoi30 MKI

Not all is bright and shining with LED light: Study


Excessive blue light emitted by light emitting diodes (LED) can adversely impact human health, according to a report recently released by the American Medical Association (AMA) Council on Science and Public Health. The report looked at LED street lighting on U.S. roadways. While LED lighting has several advantages, the excessive blue light it emits can be harmful. The human eye

NASA Curiosity rover discovers unexpected mineral on Mars



NASA’s Curiosity rover has discovered an unexpected mineral in a rock sample on Mars, a finding that suggests the red planet hosted explosive volcanoes during its evolution. TheMars Science Laboratory rover, Curiosity, has been exploring sedimentary rocks within Gale Crater since its landing in August 2012. In July last year, on Sol 1060 (the number of Martian days since landing), the rover collected powder drilled from

Delhi revisits solar policy


Weeks after Delhi’s solar policy was approved, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) government has gone back to review the same. Sources have informed The Hindu that the clause of installing solar panels in all government buildings is being revisited by the power department. While the policy makes it mandatory for all government buildings to install solar plants on their rooftops within a period of three years, it is the size of a rooftop which

DRDO, Jadavpur varsity establish research centre


On Tuesday, the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Jadavpur University jointly established the Jagadish Chandra Bose Centre for Advanced Technology. The centre will be housed on the main campus of Jadavpur University. Dr. S. Christopher, Secretary of the DRDO, laid the foundation stone of the centre in the presence of Prof. Suranjan Das, Vice-Chancellor of the university, and M. Rehman,

AAP appoints media consultant


The Aam Aadmi Party, which has been facing criticism from political opponents in Delhi over its style of functioning and alleged fondness for advertisements, has now sought professional help for image building and media management. The Delhi Government has appointed public relations firm Perfect Relations as its “media consultant”. Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal’s media adviser, Arunodya Prakash, confirmed the same

China sets up first dark sky reserve


China launched its first "dark sky reserve" for astronomical observation in the Tibetan prefecture of Ngari, bordering Nepal and India, officials said on Thursday. The reserve covers an area of 2,500 square kilometre and aims to limit light pollution by stepping up protection of dark-sky resources for education and tourism development, the China Daily reported. It was jointly launched by the China Biodiversity Conservation and

Himachal to constitute trusts for mining-affected families


The Himachal Pradesh government has decided to constitute District Mineral Foundation Trusts in all the districts to assist and provide relief to those affected by mining. “These trusts would not only provide relief to the people but also ensure development and preservation of areas affected by mining. Crores of rupees would be available for this purpose, State Industries Minister Mukesh Agnihotri told reporters here on

India, Switzerland ink MoU to enhance cooperation in skill development


India and Switzerland have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish formal cooperation in the fields of skills development and vocational and professional education and training. The MoU was signed between Switzerland’s State Secretary Mauro Dell’ Ambrogio and Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Rajiv Pratap Rudy in Winterthur. Key Facts The MoU is consistent with

Union Government launches India’s first pilot programme to run two wheelers on CNG in New Delhi


Union Government has launched a pilot programme to run two wheelers on Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) in New Delhi to curb air pollution in cities. The project was jointly launched by Union Petroleum and Natural Gas Minister Dharmendra Pradhan and Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar at the CGO Complex CNG station. Key Facts The first-of-its-kind pilot programme in India to run two-wheelers on

IIT-Kanpur professor Sanjay Mittal awarded 2015 GD Birla Award


IIT-Kanpur professor Sanjay Mittal has been awarded the twenty-fifth GD Birla Award for Scientific Research for the year 2015. He has been bestowed with this award for his significant contributions have been in the area of Mechanics. About Sanjay Mittal He is Professor at the Department of Aerospace Engineering in the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kanpur. He was instrumental in establishing the High

Gozoop wins digital mandate for HyperCITY


Gozoop has bagged the digital mandate for the retail chain HyperCITY which aims at providing an international shopping experience, where customers can shop in comfort in a large, modern & exciting environment. Ramesh Menon, CEO, HyperCITY seemed especially impressed with Gozoop’s alignment of their overall brand strategy and of the passion that they demonstrated with their ideas. “We felt that they

Chinese scientist wins global meteorological award


Beijing, June 23 - A Chinese scientist has won the International Meteorological Organisation Prize, the world's top prize for meteorological work bestowed by the World Meteorological Organisation (WMO), officials said on Thursday. Zeng Qingcun, a Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) member, won the ward for contributions to satellite meteorological remote-sensing theory, numerical weather prediction theory,

Thursday, 23 June 2016

Insuring India's N-Plants : Nuclear Insurance Policy

Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL)  has cleared a long-delayed insurance policy declared by the New India Assurance (NIA) for all 21 reactors, marking a significant leap in the country’s ambitious plans to become one of the world’s top nuclear power generators. The insurance policy was cleared by the board of the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) under the India Nuclear

‘The Force Awakens’ Rings Up Eight Saturn Awards


"Outlander," "The Walking Dead," "Hannibal" eat up television trophies. Eight more Saturn Awards, “Star Wars” has. Disney-Lucasfilm’s “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” dominated the film categories at the 42nd Saturn Awards in Burbank. The series revival scored honors for top science fiction film, actor Harrison Ford, supporting actor Adam Driver, script, editing, music, makeup, and special effects. “Crimson Peak,”

Govt releases draft National Forest Policy


The government has made its draft National Forest Policy, to replace the one crafted in 1988. The draft incorporated the consequences of climate change but entirely ignoring one of the three forest related laws, the Forest Rights Act, the policy brings new focus to plantations, growing trees outside forest lands and wood industry. The policy continues with the national goal of a minimum of one-third of the geographical

IWAI and IPGPL ink MoU on Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project


The Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP) in Myanmar was conceptualized and is being administered by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). This is with a view to facilitate connectivity between the mainland and the North Eastern States of the country through maritime shipping, inland waterways and roads of Myanmar. The link between North Eastern States of India and Myanmar will pave the way for

EU reached agreement on new border force to tackle migrant crisis


The European Union on 22 June 2016 reached agreement to set up a new Border and Coastguard Force to curb the influx of migrants. To tackle the crisis from which the EU is suffering from, the force have the right to intervene in front-line countries like Greece and Italy. The agreed subject that was endorsed by the negotiators for the 28 EU member states and the European Parliament was a proposal from the European

Mercer's Cost of Living Survey 2016 released; Mumbai costliest in India


Mercer's Cost of Living Survey 2016 was released on 22 June 2016. Asia dominates the top 5 of 2016 Cost of Living Rankings, with Hong Kong bagging the No. 1 spot, pushing Luanda, Angola to 2nd. As per the Mercer’s 22nd annual Cost of Living Survey, top factors contributing to cost of expatriate packages for employees on international assignments are currency fluctuations, cost inflation for goods and services, and

Artemi Panarin wins 2015-2016 Calder Memorial Trophy


Russian hockey winger Artemi Panarin, playing for the Chicago Blackhawks, on 22 June 2016 won the 2015-2016 Calder Memorial Trophy. The announcement was made by the US National Hockey League (NHL). In the selection process, Panarin received votes on all 150 ballots and was the top choice on 88 for 1258 voting points. He was followed by Shayne Gostisbehere of the Philadelphia Flyers (955) and Connor

Suspended Kuwait seeks $1 bn in damages from IOC


The IOC and world football governing body FIFA suspended Kuwait in October over laws that allow government interference in sports. Kuwait has filed suit in a Swiss court seeking $1 billion in damages from the International Olympic Committee over its suspension from competition, its youth and information minister said. The IOC and world football governing body FIFA suspended Kuwait in October over laws that allow

Olympic committee says more Russian athletes could be banned from Rio

IOC president Thomas Bach dismissed suggestions that Russians could appear under a neutral or Olympic flag. The IAAF left "a crack in the door" for what will probably be a very small number of Russian athletes who can demonstrate a clean record from credible testing agencies. IOC President Thomas Bach convened a special Olympic summit on Tuesday to take stock of the IAAF's decision to maintain its ban on Russian

Exam-Oriented-Current-Affairs-Dated-23-06-2016-www.KICAonline.com-english


MUMBAI: Former captain Anil Kumble will be head coach for the next year, the country's cricket board (BCCI) said on Thursday. "After discussions we have taken a final call that for one year Anil Kumble will be the head coach," BCCI President Anurag Thakur told reporters in Dharamsala. Former leg-spinner Kumble, 45, is India's most successful bowler and took 619 wickets in 132 tests and 337 from 271 one-day

BCCI appoints Anil Kumble as the head coach of Indian cricket team for the next one year


MUMBAI: Former captain Anil Kumble will be head coach for the next year, the country's cricket board (BCCI) said on Thursday. "After discussions we have taken a final call that for one year Anil Kumble will be the head coach," BCCI President Anurag Thakur told reporters in Dharamsala. Former leg-spinner Kumble, 45, is India's most successful bowler and took 619 wickets in 132 tests and 337 from 271 one-day

Jat stir: Haryana to provide 100 per cent rebate in property tax


CHANDIGARH: In a major relief to all those whose properties were damaged during Jat quota stir in February, Haryana government has decided to provide hundred per cent rebate in property tax for residential, commercial, institutional and other properties. The rebate would be given for a period of one year-- from April 1, 2016 to March 31, 2017. A notification to this effect has been issued by the Urban

IISL launches new index to track returns from overnight markets


MUMBAI: India Index Services & Products (IISL), an NSE group company, today launched a new index to measure the returns generated by market participants lending in the overnight market. Nifty 1D Rate index can be used as a benchmark for funds investing in overnight money market, IISL said in a statement. An overnight market is part of the money market wherein lenders give money to borrowers only for "overnight".

Essar’s general counsel Hemant Kumar resigns to join L&T


MUMBAI: Hemant Kumar, group general counsel of the Ruia-controlled Essar Group, has recently put in his papers to join finance-toengineering conglomerate Larsen &Toubro as group general counsel. A legal veteran of three decades, Kumar will oversee big-ticket litigation and arbitration and will also advise the group companies on strategic matters, including acquisitions, said a person familiar with the development.

SK Roy resigns as LIC chairman two years before completing his term


MUMBAI | NEW DELHI: SK Roy has unexpectedly resigned as chairman of state-owned Life Insurance Corporation of India, two years before his term ends, according to people with knowledge of the matter.A senior finance ministry official said Roy had made similar requests in the past. "He wanted to go because of personal reasons," he said. Roy had wanted to quit before this year's Budget as well, the person said. His

New electron microscope method detects atomic-scale magnetism


Scientists can now detect magnetic behavior at the atomic level with a new electron microscopy technique developed by a team from the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory and Uppsala University, Sweden. The researchers took a counterintuitive approach by taking advantage of optical distortions that they typically try to eliminate."It's a new approach to measure magnetism at the atomic scale,"

KFC announces a meal box that can charge your phone while you put on the calories


As part of a Facebook contest, the KFC Watt a Box packs a 6,100mAH power bank in a Meal Box.A fast food box that charges your phone. That’s all we needed. KFC recently came up with the novel idea of enabling both the visitor and the visitor’s phone to replenish at their stores. Launched in limited-edition meal boxes is a 6,100mAH Lithium-ion battery charger and a USB cable that can be used to charge USB devices

Anand Desai Committee on Specific Relief Act, 1963 submits report


a) An expert committee headed by Anand Desai, set up to examine the Specific Relief Act, 1963 has submitted its report to Union Law and Justice minister Sadananda Gowda. b) The committee stressed on the need for change in the present scheme of act so that specific performance is granted as a general rule and grant of compensation or damages for non-performance remains as an exception.  c) Modifications

China's Sunway Taihu Light declared world's fastest supercomputer


a) China's Sunway Taihu Light has been declared the world's fastest supercomputer. It has topped the list of 500 supercomputers around the world, thereby thrusting China to top the list for the seventh consecutive time. It has been developed by the National Research Centre of Parallel Computer Engineering and Technology (NRCPC). b) This supercomputer can make 93 quadrillion calculations per second with its

World Bank approves $1.02 bln to support Pak reforms, disaster resilience


ISLAMABAD: The World Bank has approved financing worth $1.02 billion using three different financing instruments to support the deepening of Pakistan’s economic reforms and to strengthen the capacity of Sindh province to deal with natural disasters. The Competitiveness and Growth Development Policy Financing (CGDPF) would support the Government of Pakistan’s efforts to encourage economic growth and

Cabinet Approves Rehabilitation Of Mahatma Gandhi Setu In Patna


NEW DELHI:  The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi today approved the rehabilitation of four-lane Mahatma Gandhi Setu on Ganga River in Bihar, said an official statement. The rehabilitation of four-lane 5.575 km long Mahatma Gandhi Setu at National Highway No.19 will be done at Patna in Bihar, the statement said. "The bridge will be constructed after dismantling the damaged pre-

Centre approves setting up of committees for UD schemes


To promote people centric planning and execution of new urban development (UD) schemes launched by the government, the Union Minister of Urban Development M.Venkaiah Naidu has approved setting up of District Level Advisory and Monitoring Committees with the elected representatives of the people across the country.  In a first of its kind, these Committees will oversee, review and monitor implementation of urban

Cabinet approves extension of timeline for taking over 50% of Outstanding Debt of DISCOMs


The Union Cabinet under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has accorded its approval for an extension of timeline for taking over 50% of the Outstanding Debt of DISCOMs, as existing on 30 September 2015, by States and borrowings by State of Jammu & Kashmir under UDAY (Ujjwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana) - a scheme for operational and financial turnaround of DISCOMs. The time

Jharkhand Cabinet approves 2 per cent reservation for primitive tribe groups in education and jobs


The Raghubar Das Cabinet has given the go-ahead for two per cent reservation to the Primitive Tribal Groups (also referred to as Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups or PTGs) in education and government jobs. This has been done for the first time in a bid to help the PTGs become part of the mainstream. The PTGs have been facing the problem of stagnating or dwindling numbers over the last several years. The

Cabinet approves special package for employment generation and promotion of exports in Textile and Apparel sector


The Union Cabinet under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given approval for a special package for employment generation and promotion of exports in Textile and Apparel sector. The move comes in the backdrop of the package of reforms announced by the Government for generation of one crore jobs in the textile and apparel industry over next 3 years. The package includes a slew of measures

Officials say debris found on Australian island not MH370


Debris found on an Australian island earlier this month is not from missing Malaysia Airlines Flight 370, investigators said on Wednesday.  The Australian Transport Safety Bureau was notified on June 9 that the debris had been found on Kangaroo Island off the southern Australian coast. The bureau, which is running the search in the southern Indian Ocean on Malaysia's behalf, said it had recovered the part but Boeing, the maker of the missing plane, advised that it

Team from India to participate in NASA competition


Houston: A team of 13 Indian engineeringstudents, including four girls, will participate in NASA's prestigious global competition to build and design remotely operated vehicles from scratch. The team named 'Screwdrivers' from Mukesh Patel School of Technology Management, Mumbai, will compete against 40 other teams from countries like China, Scotland, Russia, USA, Canada, Ireland, Mexico, Norway,

Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched the first of the two 105m Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs)

Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) launched the first of the two 105m Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs) destined for the Sri Lankan Navy. These vessels, the largest India has exported to date, mark the latest in a series of naval sales which, though not heavily publicised, have made India an emerging exporter of patrol vessels. Combined with the emergence of Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE) as the L1 or the