Current Affair of January 2020

National

1. On January 16, 2020, the Department of Industries and Commerce, functioning under Ministry of Food Processing Industries organized food processing summit in Ladakh. The other stakeholders of the summit include Invest India and National Investment Promotion and Facilitation agency.

2. On January 4, 2020 National Human Rights Commission has sent notice to the Rajasthan Government over the death of more than 100 children in the state-run hospital in Kota, Rajasthan in the month of December alone. The commission seeks a detailed report on the reasons behind the death. Union Health Ministry has sent an expert panel to conduct gap analysis of clinical protocols, human resources and equipment and paediatric services.

3. On January 10, 2020, the Union Home Minister Amit Shah inaugurated the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) and a National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal. The centre was approved in October 2018 at a cost of 416 crores.

4. On January 3, 2020, PM Narendra Modi paid his tribute to the Indian Social Reformer Savitribai Phule. She was born on January 3, 1831.

5. On January 2, 2020, India celebrated the birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh. He is considered to be the 10th Guru of Sikhs. He was born on January 5, 1666.

6. Recently, Henley Passport Index was launched. The index was launched based on the data collected from International Air Transport Association (IATA). Around 199 different passports and 227 different travel destinations were considered to launch the index. The Index is based on the number of destinations their holders can access without visa.

7. According to the United National Development Programme (UNDP), Telangana has emerged the best performing states in terms of achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG).

8. On January 18, 2020, the Industrial meet of the Asia’s largest Civil Aviation was held in Bengaluru. The Civil Aviation event is to be held at Begumpet airport, Hyderabad in March 2020. The theme of the event is Flying for All.

9. The Indian Railways has signed MoU with the RailTel, a Mini Ratna Public Sector Undertaking in order to implement Phase II of e-office programme. Also, the Indian Railways is to provide content on demand services in premium, suburban, express and mail trains.

10. The Gujarat Agro Industries Corporation (GAIC) will import water-soluble fertilizers from China. So far, the state agency has imported 300 tonnes.

11. On January 2, 2020, the Lai Haraoba festival began in Tripura. The festival will be celebrated for 5 days. The festival is celebrated by the Meitei community. The community is spread across Assam, Tripura, Manipur, Meghalaya, Myanmar and Bangladesh. However, the festival is widely celebrated in the state of Manipur.

12. On January 29, 2020, the NITI Aayog released the ranking of Aspirational Districts of the country for the month of December 2019. The ranking is released every month.

13. On January 9, 2020, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy launched Amma Vodi Scheme in Chittoor. It is one of the nine flagship programmes of the Andhra Government. The programmes are called Navratanalu. The scheme is first of its kind in the country.

14. On January 5, 2020, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) released its report on sugar intake of India. The intake was measured in grams per day. The report was released based on a joint survey conducted by ICMR, NIN (National Institute of Nutrition), Hyderabad and ILSI (International Life Science Institute of India). The study is the first of its kind in the country.

15. India has been closely monitoring the happenings in China after more than 200 cases were confirmed to be infected with Corona virus (a new stain). The increase in numbers is mainly because more than millions travel for Lunar New Year in China.

16. The International Labour Organization released its “The World Employment and Social Outlook: Trends 2020” (WESO) report. The report stated that the global unemployment has been stable for the last nine years. However, slowing economic growth means that for the increasing labour force, no new jobs are created.

17. On January 19, 2020, the Group of Ministers headed by Home Minister Amit Shah finalized its report to change the legal framework that will help prevent sexual harassment of women at work places.

18. On January 17, 2020, Government of India, Bru-Reang representatives, Government of Tripura and Mizoram signed an agreement in New Delhi to end the refugee crisis of Bru-Reang community. Home Minister Amit Shah presided over the event.

19. The Global Potato Conclave is to be held between January 28 and January 31, 2020. PM Modi is to attend the conclave. PM Modi is to address the conclave.

20. On December 31, 2019, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman released a report of task force on National Infrastructure on Pipeline (NIP) 2019-2025. The task force was set up in order to draw up National Infrastructure Pipeline from fiscal year 2019-20 to 2024-25.

21. According to the survey conducted by Transparency International, Assam tops in terms of budget formulation followed by Odisha and Andhra Pradesh. The states that were ranked lower in terms of budget formulation are Goa, Maharashtra and Punjab.

22. The United Nations Department of Global Communications marked the International Day of Commemoration in Memory of Victims of Holocaust on January 27. This year, 2020 marks 75th anniversary of the day.

23. On January 26, 2020, Bharat Parv 2020 begun at Red Fort in New Delhi. The programe is to continue till 1st February, 2020.

24. On January 31, 2020, at the World Sustainable Development Summit released its report on India’s Steel Demand. According to the report, if the steel demand of the country continues to grow, the carbon-dioxide emissions from the steel sector will reach 600 million tonnes by 2050.

25. The Indian Railways is to implement plans for RFID (Radio Frequency IDentification). The railways is to tag around 3,50,000 rolling stocks by 2021.

26. The Marine Ecosystems-Challenges and Opportunities (MECOS), the third international symposium is to be held in Kochi. The symposium is conducted by the Marine Biological association of India between January 7, 2020 and January 10, 2020.

27. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) is celebrating its 125th birth anniversary in the year 2020. In order to commemorate its anniversary, the organization has been hosting several events in different parts of India under the theme : CII@125: Business and Beyond.

28. The Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) operating under Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas will launch fuel conservation campaign on January 16, 2020.

29. On January 15, 2020, the IMD celebrates its 145th Foundation Day. It was begun in 1875. The day will be celebrated by Ministry of Earth Science under which IMD (Indian Meteorological Department) functions.

30. At the 71st celebrations of Republic Day, Maharashtra Govenrment launched the Shiv Bhojan Scheme. The scheme will offer meals at Rs 10 to the poor.

31. Every Year January 4 is celebrated as World Braille Day in order to mark the birth anniversary of Louis Braille. Louis is the inventor of Braille, a written language for blind people.

32. The Mizoram State Government is organising Zo Kutpui festival across 10 states in the country and also in countries such as Myanmar, US and Bangladesh.

33. On February 1, 2020, President Ram Nath Kovind will inaugurate the 34th Surajkund International Crafts Fair. The fair is being organized by the Haryana Government in Faridabad. Around 20 countries and the states of India are participating in the fair.

34. The Wildlife Institute of India (WII) is to conduct Asiatic Lion Census in May 2020. The Institute will use 10,000 cameras to conduct the census.

35. The Citizenship (Amendment) Act was legislated by the Parliament during this winter session. However, several states are agitating over the non-inclusion of Muslims in the law. Kerala was the first state to pass a resolution against the act. Recently, the state of West Bengal has passed similar resolution.

36. On January 9, 2020, Pravasi Bharatiya Divas was celebrated. The day is being marked since 2003 to recognize overseas Indians. It aims at promoting unity among Indian diaspora living abroad and also mark the contributions of overseas Indians. The event is organized by the Ministry of External Affairs. It is sponsored by Confederation of Indian Industry.

37. On January 29, 2020, the Union Minister of Development of NER (North Eastern Region), reviewed the preparations of Madhavpur Mela in Gujarat. It is to be organized in Porbandar (the birth place of Gandhiji).

38. On January 10, 2020, the International Energy Agency (IEA) launched India’s Energy Policy Report. The report insisted that India should adopt its think tank NITI Aayog’s National Energy Policy. IEA released its “India Report 2020”, in collaboration with NITI Aayog.

39. On January 10, 2020, the Supreme Court of India said that Right of access to internet is a fundamental right. The Court had asked the administration of Jammu and Kashmir to review the curbs on internet in a week.

40. PM Modi is on a two-day official visit to Kolkata on January 11 and 12, 2020. During his visit, the Prime Minister will dedicate three colonial buildings to the country.

41. Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), the statutory body established in January 2009 under the Ministry of Electronics and Information is solely responsible for providing AADHAR cards. Aadhaar even after 10 years is the world’s largest bio metric ID system in the world.

42. The National Mission of Clean Ganga (NMCG) has taken up the initiative under Namami Gange Project to conserve wetlands of the Ganges basin. The primary aim of Namami Gange project is to rejuvenate the river by increasing its flow. It also includes recharging aquifers and conservation of wetlands.

43. The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched the Composite Regional Centre (CRC) for skill development, empowerment of persons and rehabilitation in Port Blair. The Composite Regional Centres in India are located in Kozhikode, Bhopal, Lucknow, Patna, Guwahati, Srinagar, Ahmedabad, Mandi and Suraghi (Chhattisgarh).

44. On January 22, 2020, the Economic Intelligence Unit released Democracy Index for the year 2019. The index was topped by Norway. Norway was followed by Iceland and Sweden at second and third positions respectively. India was pushed to 51st rank slipping 10 positions as compared to its previous ranking

45. Every year January 30 is to be marked as World Neglected Tropical Diseases day. The day creates awareness in addressing the tropical diseases. This is the first time World NTD Day that is being marked.

46. On January 6, 2020, the World Bank released its study on how FDI flows are affected in the world due to automation. The study concluded that automation will certainly disrupt the flow of capital from rich countries to poor countries. On the other hand, the poor countries can gain from automation if adopted at the right time.

47. On January 13, 2020, Home Minister Amit Shah chaired the sixth Island Development Agency meeting in New Delhi. The meeting focused on “Green Development in the Islands to reach new heights”.

48. On January 17, 2020, the International Conclave on “Globalizing Indian Thought” was held in IIM, Kozhikode. PM Modi addressed the conclave. The conclave aimed at revealing India’s thoughts in becoming one of top three economies of the world.

49. The Ministry of Agriculture on December 31, 2019, announced that the sowing area of rabi crops have increased by 36 lakh hectares. This is mainly due to improvement in soil moisture in Rabi growing states.

50. On January 15, 2020, the State of Culture and Tourism minister launched a month long exhibition on Indian Heritage in New Delhi. The exhibition was launched in digital space and will stay online till February 15, 2020.

51. The Government of India has released new performance energy standards for the performance of air conditioners after consulting Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE). The BEE operating under Ministry of Power develop strategies and policies with primary objective of reduction in energy usage. According to BEE, the total air conditioner capacity of India is 80 million tonnes of refrigeration. It is estimated that this will increase to 250 million by 2030.

52. On January 13, 2020, the Government of India released its National Draft Policy on rare diseases. The policy has proposed one-time fund of Rs 15 lakhs to treat rare diseases under Ayushman Bharat. The policy was drafted by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

53. On January 14, 2020, the GoI announced that Indian jewellers shall be allowed to sell hallmarked gold artifacts that are made of 14, 18 and 22 carat gold alone. Also, it is mandatory for all jewellers to get compulsory hallmark. Currently gold hallmarking is voluntary. The mandatory ruling is to be implemented from January 15, 2021.

54. The Railways Ministry has renamed Railway Protection Force (RPF) as Indian Railway Protection Force Service. The ministry has also accorded Group A status to RPF.

55. On January 28, 2020, Supreme Court ruled that African Cheetah shall be permitted to be introduced in India. The cat is being introduced on experimental basis.

56. The Indian Science Congress was inaugurated by PM Modi on January 3, 2020. On the sidelines of the event, the Farmers Science Congress was conducted for the first time. The event also witnessed the Yoga Science Meet.

57. The World Hindi day is celebrated every year on January 10 in order to promote the language world-wide. It is celebrated by Indian Embassies that are located all over the world. The day is being celebrated world wide since 2006.

58. The Andhra Pradesh Government has passed the “Andhra Pradesh Decentralisation and Equal Development of All Regions Bill”, 2020. The bill paves way for three capitals of the state.

59. On January 27, 2020, the Union Minister Piyush Goyal announced that Indian Railways will run 100% on electricity by 2024. In such case, Indian Railways will be the first Railways to run 100% on electricity. Also, the Indian Railways has planned to make the network zero-emission network by 2030.

60. On December 31, 2019, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) released its annual report. The report stated that since 1989, the number of countries experiencing conflicts has increased and the attacks on children has increased as well.

61. On January 10, 2020, Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) launched the State Energy Efficiency Index, 2019 in association with Alliance for Energy Efficient Economy. The report was prepared considering the basic energy requirements such as coal, electricity, gas and oil. The report tracks the progress of Energy Efficiency initiatives in 36 states and Union Territories.

62. According to a report released by UK based Centre for Economics and Business Research (CEBR), India will overtake Germany in 2026 to become the world’s fourth largest economy. The report also said that by 2034, India will overtake Japan and become third largest economy in the world.

63. The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recently released India State of Forest Report, 2019. The report predominantly talks about forest cover in the country. The report also mentions about forest fires in the country.

64. On January 22, 2020, the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has setup National Startup Advisory Council. The council will suggest ways to build strong start ups in the country. It is being set up to reduce the time spent on tax compliance to less than one-hour a month and to boost the availability of domestic and global capital.

65. On January 3, 2020, PM Modi will inaugurate Indian Science Congress at Bengaluru. The theme of the Congress is : Science and Technology: Rural Development. The Congress is to be hosted by Department of Science and Technology.

66. The first underwater Metro is being constructed in Hooghly river. The project is awaiting clearance of 2.8 million USD from the Indian Railways.

67. On January 14, 2020, the Non-Profit Organization Pratham released its annual report, Annual Status of Education Report, 2019. The report is based on the survey conducted in 26 districts that covers 36,000 children in the age group of 4 to 8 years.

68. After Abrogation of Article 370, Government of India is rapidly working on developing the territories of Ladakh and Jammu Kashmir. In order to hasten the process, 36 Union Ministers are to visit the Union Territory. Also, the concession agreement for the Z-Morh tunnel was signed on January 17, 2020.

69. On January 23, 2020, India celebrated 123rd birth anniversary of Subhash Chandra Bose. He was born on January 23, 1897. In order to commemorate Netaji’s birth anniversary, GoI is inaugurating a temple at Varanasi in the name of the leader with a Dalit woman as a chief priest. The prayers are to be performed to Bharat Mata at the temple.

70. India celebrates National Girl Child Day on January 24 annually. It was initiated by Ministry of Women and Child Development in 2008.

71. The Economic Survey was tabled by the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman in the Parliament on January 31, 2019. The Survey says that the subsidies under National Food Security Act (NFSA) should be sharply reduced.

72. The Ministry of Jal Shakti recently launched rankings of Central and state governmental water departments based on their efficiency targets. According to the report, Gujarat topped the ranking and Delhi was pushed to the last.

73. The Pacific Island, Palau has become the first country to ban sun cream that is harmful to corals. The country has banned common ingredients used in cosmetics including oxybenzone.

74. On January 7, 2020, the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting will confer “Antarrashtriya Yoga Diwas Media Samman” to 30 media houses. The award is being presented for the first time. The aim of the award is to acknowledge positive role of media in disseminating outreach of Yoga.

75. The Kerala Government on December 31, 2019, passed a resolution to rollback the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) that was passed during this winter session of Parliament. According to the Kerala Government, the CAA act contradicts the basic principles of Constitution.

76. The fifth Pulses Conclave 2020 is to be held in Lonavala, Maharashtra between February 12, 2020 and February 14, 2020. It is a biennial conference.

77. On January 7, 2020, the International Meteorological Organisation released its “State of Climate Report” for the year 2019. According to the report, the climate change has claimed 1,659 lives in India in the year 2019. 2019 is the seventh warmest year since 1901. The temperatures were not high as compared to 2016 (the warmest year so far) mainly due to weak El Nino in the Pacific.

78. On January 19, 2020, the National Immunization Day (NID) was observed all over India as a part of Pulse Polio Programme, 2020. Around 17.4 crore children of age less than 5 hears were administered polio drops to sustain polio eradication in India.

79. Every year, Armed Forces Veterans Day is celebrated on January 14. The day is being celebrated since 2017. The day was initially called Armistice Day.

80. The New Delhi World Book Fair organized by the National Book Trust is being held for 42 years now. The trust is an apex body of Government of India functioning under Ministry of Human Resource Development.

81. The Australian Koalas population suffered an extraordinary hit in the bush fires of Australia. It took 3 months for the firemen to control the fires.

82. Every year, on January 12, the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda is celebrated as National youth Day. In order to commemorate his birth anniversary, GoI also organizes National Youth Festival. The National Youth Festival is to be held between January 12, 2020 and January 16, 2020 in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. The festival is being organized by the Government of India since 1995.

83. On January 8, 2020, the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) announced that it has developed viable scientific method to cultivate Indian Pompano fish in ponds. Pompanos are marine fishes.

84. The Government Think Tank Niti Aayog draws up list of medical devices that have high export potential. It has come up with 10 devices to provide priority subsidies. It includes surgical blades, orthopaedic implants, catheters, syringes and needles, X-ray machines, blood bags, MRI machines and CT scan.

85. On January 17, 2020, Government of India renamed its National TB Control Programme to National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme. Also, the WHO (World Health Organization) recently endorsed on technology developed by Indian scientists to detect the disease called TrueNat MTB in terms of accuracy.

86. The NBA (National Basketball Association) star Kobe Bryant died in a helicopter crash. He retired from the game in 2016. He has won two gold medals in Olympics, one in 2008 and the other in 2012. The star had won 5 championships so far.

87. The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs on December 31, 2019, released Swachh Survekshan League in New Delhi. Around 4,372 cities participated in the league. It is a cleanliness survey that helps in competitive federalism.

88. The current world population is 7.7 billion (April 2019). According to the United Nations, the global population is to reach 10 billion by 2050 and therefore the food production should increase by 70%.

89. On January 1, 2020, the Election Commission of India launched an online system that will allow political parties to track their applications. The system is called Political Parties Registration Tracking Management System (PPRTMS).

90. On January 28, 2020, a non-profit organization in the US called the National Centre for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) said that over 25,000 cases of child pornography have been uploaded in 5 months in India. The data has been shared by the organization with the National Crime Records Bureau.

91. On January 6, 2020, the fifth Asia Pacific Drosophila Research Conference was held at Pune. It was organized by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research. The conference is held twice a year.

92. A new Trojan called Shopper malware is increasing its presence among smart phone users. The malware is screening unsolicited ads and flashing fake reviews.

93. On January 18, 2020, the ELECRAMA 2020 was held in Noida. The event showcases innovations and achievements of Indian Electrical Industry

94. On January 9, 2020, Indian Railways announced that it will source 1000 MW of solar power and 200 MW of wind power to zonal railways by 2021-22. Also, Kashmir is to be linked with the rest of India through railway network by December 2021.

95. The Indian Railways has enhanced security in major railway hubs by installing IP based video surveillance system. The surveillance has been installed in parking areas, entrance and exit platforms, waiting hall and over bridges.

96. The World Sustainable Summit is an annual event organized by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). It is being organized since 2001. The event has become a premier international event focusing on developing actions.

97. On January 9, 2020, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy released its year end review. According to the report, over 150 GW of renewable energy has been installed so far in India.

98. On January 15, 2020, the World Economic Forum released its Global Risks Report. Under the report, the Forum has identified the global risks.

99. According to the recent census at the Bhitarkanika National Park, the population of salt water (or estuarine) crocodiles have increased to 1,757 as compared to 1,742 in 2018.

100. On January 16, 2020, the Government of Assam, Government of India and World Bank signed 88 million USD agreement. The agreement aims to modernize Assam’s Ferry transport service on the Brahmaputra river.

101. On January 23, 2020, NITI Aayog announced that it will launch National Data and Analytics Platform (NDAP). The Platform aims to democratize access of government data. In other words, the platform aims to make the data across all sectors coherent.

102. One of the job sites, indeed released a report that jobs related to Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics have increased by 44% between November 2016 and November 2019.

103. On January 19, 2020, the Delhi Government released the guarantee card that consisted of 10 guarantees for the residents of Delhi. It included free bus services, electricity, water supply, pollution, etc.

104. The Veteran Feminist, Social Activist and writer passed away in private nursing home on January 30, 2020. She was known for her heroic oppressive practices involving women. She was a forefront fighter for women equality with men

105. On January 9, 2020, the Andhra Pradesh Government signed Memorandum of Understanding with a German firm to implement Zero Budget Natural Farming in the state.

106. The NIIT (National institute of Information Technology), a multi-national company has been selected as one of the EdTech companies for the NEAT initiative. The NIIT will work with AICTE to implement the vision of Ministry of HRD (Human and Resource Development) on NEAT.

107. In January 2020, a turtle rehabilitation Centre is to be set up in Bihar’s Bhagalpur forest. The centre will shelter more than 500 turtles and is to be spread over half a hectare.

108. On January 28, 2020, the India celebrated the legend Lala Lajpat Rai’s 155th birth anniversary. He is one of the most celebrated freedom fighters in the country. His patriotism earned him titles such as “Punjab Kesari” and “Lion of Punjab”.

109. On January 17, 2020, NITI Aayog and Ladakh Union Territory signed a Memorandum of Understanding. According to the agreement, NITI Aayog will support the administration of the Ladakh through its initiative “Development Support Services to States for Infrastructure Projects” (DSSS).

110. On January 1, 2020, the Government Think Tank released its Draft “Model Concession Agreement for Setting Up Medical Colleges under Public Private Partnership” guideline document. Under the guideline the think tank has suggested Public Private Partnership (PPP) model to link private medical colleges and district hospitals.

111. In November 2019, the number of farmer suicides increased to 300 cases in Maharashtra. The steep increase in farmer suicides though has crossed 300 several times, this is the highest since 2015.

112. On January 28, 2020, the Union Ministry declared that Ramsar Convention had added 10 more sites from India. Today, there are 37 Ramsar sites in the country.

113. On January 21, 2020, the Carbon Disclosure Project, an annual report on carbon reduction activities of different countries and their firms was released by a non-profit organization Global Reporting Initiative. According to the report, the countries were ranked based on their corporate responsibilities of carbon reduction. In order to assess the role played by them, their science-based targets were weighed.

114. The APNA UREA-SonaUgle brand of HURL (Hindustan Urvarak & Rasayan Limited) was launched by the Union Minister of Chemicals and Fertilizers Shri D V Sadananda Gowda.

115. On January 18, 2020, the National Informatics Centre (NIC) will set up block chain technology centre in Bengaluru. The centre is to be inaugurated by Union Minister Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad.

116. The National Informatics Centre (NIC) is to hold a 2-day technology Conclave in New Delhi. The event is to be conducted between January 21, 2020 and January 22, 2020. The Conclave is to be inaugurated by Union Minister Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad.

117. On January 9, 2020, the World Bank released its Global Economic Prospect. According to its forecast, the world is expected to grow economically at the rate of 2.5%. This is the lowest prediction since that predicted in 2008-09, 3.1%. By then, the global financial crisis derailed the economy.

118. The Government of India approved Rs 5,908 crores of disaster relief fund to seven states. It includes Karnataka, UP, Assam, MP, Tripura Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh. The states were badly affected due to floods and landslides caused by South West Monsoon rains.

119. On January 12, 2020, PM Modi attended the 150th celebrations of Kolkata Port Trust. During the celebration, the prime minister launched commemorative stamps of the port trust.

120. For the first time, the Census will collect data of transgenders headed houses. Also, the census will enquire about “Main cereal”, which is also included for the first time in the history of census of India.

121. National Voters Day (राष्ट्रीय मतदाता दिवस) is celebrated on 25 January every year to mark the foundation day of Election Commission of India (ECI). ECI was established on 25 January 1950. It’s a constitutional body deriving its authority from Article 324 of the Constitution and Representation of the People Acts. The day was started in 2011. Year 2020 marks 10th National Voters Day.

122. On January 8, 2020, the Competition Commission of India (CCI) released its report on “Market Study on E-Commerce in India: Key Findings and Observations”. The market study for the report was initiated in April 2019 by CCI.

123. On January 3, 2020, the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) inaugurated the first “Patola Saree” production unit in Gujarat. This will help to cut down the cost of silk yarn production and also will increase the sale of raw material for Patola sarees.

124. On January 13, 2020, the World Future Energy Summit is to begin at Abu Dhabi. It is to be held for four days.

125. On January 13, 2020, the Indian Aviation Ministry announced that registration of all drones in the country is mandatory. The Ministry has given January 31, 2020 as deadline for the users to register their drones.

126. Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (EFoCC) recently announced that India has achieved the complete phase out of ozone depleting Hydro Chloro Fluoro Carbons (HCFC). The achievement has its route to the Montreal Protocol.

127. On January 27, 2020, the Government of India signed the historic agreement with the nine factions of the National Democratic Front of Bodoland (NDFB). According to the agreement, the Bodoland Territorial Area District will hold special rights for the locals. However, the outsiders will have to obtain “permit” to work in the territory.

128. On January 20, 2020, the APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Development Authority) has added 135 laboratories to the existing 51 laboratories. With this initiative, the total number of agricultural product testing laboratories in the country has increased to 186.

129. On January 15, 2020, India celebrated its 72nd Army Day. It is being celebrated every year to honour soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country. The Army Day Parade was held at the Parade Ground in Delhi Cantonment as a part of the celebrations. It is important to remember such great soldiers as they serve with the motto “Service before Self”

130. The Andhra Pradesh Government announced that it will deliver sand at customers’ door steps. As a pilot project, the government is to begin the initiative on experimental basis.

131. On January 11, 2020, Home Minister Amit Shah launched the country’s first Cyber Crime Prevention Unit called the “Cyber AASHVAST” in Gandhinagar. Along with AASHVAST, the Video Integration and State Wide Advance Security project called VISWAS was also launched.

132. On January 20, 2020, the United Nation Conference on Trade and Development released its report on Global Investment Trend Monitor Report for the year 2019. The Global FDI of the year 2019 was 1.39 trillion USD. This has declined by 1% as compared to 2018.

International

1. On January 30, 2020, the World Health Organization declared International Health Emergency over Corona Virus.

2. On January 30, 2020, the Indian Commission for Cooperation with UNESCO (INCCU) was chaired by the Union Human Resource Development Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal “Nishank”. UNESCO is United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization. Along with the UNESCO commission, the event was also attended by the sub commissions namely Social Sciences, Culture, Education, Natural Sciences and Culture.

3. The World Health Organization recently increased the spreading risk of Corona Virus from medium to high. With the virus spreading to different parts of the world like Japan, US, UK, Sri Lanka, Germany, India has found its cure!

4. On January 29, 2020, the Indian Navy launched Operation Vanilla in the Southern Indian Ocean. The operation was launched based on the request received from Madagascar.

5. On January 28, 2020, the Ministry of External Affairs launched the Passport renewal reminder services. The Passport Seva Kendras operating under the Ministry of External Affairs will send SMS about the renewal.

6. The British Government has unveiled a new 50 pence coin commemorating Brexit. The coin has the inscription “Peace, Prosperity and Friendship with all nations”. Around 3 million coins are to be distributed from post offices, banks and shops from January 31, 2020.

7. On January 29, 2020, the European Parliament is set to discuss the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA).

8. On 27 January, 2020, the World Health Organization arrived in China to discuss the ways the Corona Virus is spreading. The death toll due to the virus has reached 106 and around 4,000 people have been infected so far.

9. The President of Brazil, Mr Jair Bolsonaro visited India to take part in Republic Day celebrations. During his visit, the countries signed several agreements. Alongside, the fifth session of India-Brazil Trade monitoring mechanism was also held. President Bolsonaro was accompanied by a huge business delegation. They will hold several meetings with their Indian counterparts during the India-Brazil Business Forum that is to be held in 27, January, 2020.

10. The Ganga-Volga Dialogue was held between India and Russia in New Delhi. The dialogue focused in providing interface between the civilizations of the countries.

11. On January 23, 2020, India and Brazil will sign the Bilateral Investment Treaty during the visit of Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro. The President is visiting India as a Chief Guest of Republic Day celebrations.

12. The World Economic Forum began on January 21, 2020 in Davos. The highlight of the forum this year is over its initiative to plant 1 trillion trees in the next decade and also to equip 1 billion people with fourth industrial revolution. The forum has released a report on the role of passwords in cyber crimes. According to the report, fourth industrial revolution reduces cost spent on maintaining passwords and their secrecy.

13. The World Economic Forum published its opinion poll during its 50th annual meeting in Davos. The annual meeting was called for urgent upskilling and better climate education.

14. On January 22, 2020, India joined Reskilling Revolution initiative of World Economic Forum. It helps economies to adopt o changes being introduced by Fourth Industrial Revolution.

15. On January 21, 2020, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Nepalese PM Oli inaugurated an integrated check post (ICP) at Jogbani-Biratnagar. This is the second check post that is being built at the border with Indian Assistance.

16. The Bilateral International Treaty organization, an international arbitration tribunal recently dismissed all the claims against India.

17. The United Nations had set the target of reducing carbon emissions from shipping industry by 50% by 2050 as compared to the levels in 2008. A study of London based Energy Institute (University College London’s Energy Institute) suggest that in order to achieve the target, the world has to spend 1 trillion USD.

18. On January 19, 2020, Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval met Sri Lankan President Gotbaya Rajpaksa. He discussed setting up of maritime research coordination centre in the country. The establishment of research centre is important to learn maritime activities in the Indian Ocean Region.

19. On January 18, 2020, China and Myanmar signed 33 new deals under BRI (Belt and Road Initiative) to implement China-Myanmar Economic Corridor. Also, a concession agreement was signed by he countries to implement the deep seaport project called Kyaukphyu Special Economic Zone.

20. On January 17, 2020, Russia announced that the production of S-400 air defence missile system for India has begun. The missiles are to be delivered by 2025. Russia also announced that the foreign Ministerial meet of Russia, India and China is to be held in March 2020.

21. The Bangladesh Government has planned to accommodate 100,000 Rohingya refugees in its Bhasan Char Island.

22. Between January 15, 2020 and January 16, 2020, the first session of India-Norway trade and investment dialogue was held in New Delhi. It was the first meeting of the countries after they signed an agreement in 2019.

23. The Raisina Dialogue was held at New Delhi for four days recently. Leaders from several countries participated in the dialogue. It included foreign ministers from 13 countries including Iran, Australia and Russia. During the Raisina Dialogue, India and Finland signed a defence agreement. Also, Russia announced that it supports India for the latter’s permanent membership at the UNSC (United Nations Security Council)

24. Every year, the World Health Organization releases list of Global Health Challenges of the forth coming year. This year, on January 13, 2020, the organization had released the top global health challenges for the year.

25. The Statue of Unity that was inaugurated by PM Modi in October 2018 has been included in 8 wonders of SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization). The statue was a monumental tribute to Sardar Vallabhai Patel.

26. The Raisina Dialogue is to be held between January 14, 2020 and January 16, 2020. It is a multilateral conference that is held in New Delhi annually since 2016. The dialogue is organised by the Ministry of External Affairs and Observer Research Foundation.

27. India recently attended the Hormuz Peace Initiative that was held in Tehran. The initiative aimed at stabilizing one of world’s busiest shipping lanes, the Strait of Hormuz amidst US-Iran tensions. It was attended by leading trade partners of Iran namely China, Oman, India and Afghanistan.

28. On January 11, 2020, China reported the first death in the country due to pneumonia caused by a new virus that is of outbreak in the city of Wuhan. The Chinese scientists discovered that the new strain of virus is that of the corona virus.

29. On January 8, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved Memorandum of Understandings India had signed with United Kingdom, Sweden and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF).

30. On January 8, 2020, the Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi approved the agreement between India and Mongolia to explore outer space for civilian and peaceful purposes. The countries signed the agreement in September 2019.

31. On January 5, 2020, Iran had completely withdrawn from JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) nuclear deal. The announcement came after the US troops killed General Qassem Soleimani.

32. On January 3, 2020, the US army killed Iran’s most powerful military commander General Qasem Soleimani. He was killed at Baghdad airport.

33. In the honor of 200th birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale, the World Health Organization designated the year 2020 as the “Year of Nurse and Midwife”.

Business, Economy & Banking

1. After Mumbai, the Amazon India private e-commerce firm has set up its second pick up kiosk in Kolkata’s Sealdah Railway Station.

2. The Economic Survey of the Fiscal Year 2020 has been tabled in both the houses of Parliament. The survey highlights economic trends in the country, development over the past 12 months and facilitates better mobilization of resources.

3. The Government of Maharashtra and World Bank signed a 210 million USD agreement to facilitate agriculture value chains, increase market access and build resilient crops.

4. On January 20, 2020, the Department of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) announced that it has launched paperless licensing process for petroleum service stations. The paperless licensing has been launched under Petroleum Rules, 2002. The implementing agency of the order would be Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organization (PESO).

5. The World Gold Council (WGC) recently released its report, “World Gold Outlook 2020”. The report says that gold has performed the best since 2010 in 2019. In 2019, the gold trade in USD has increased by 18.4% as compared to 2010.

6. On January 17, 2020, one of the world’s largest retailer Amazon announced that it has planned to invest 1 billion USD in India and generate 1 million jobs. Globally Amazon has increased its employee base four times.

7. On January 14, 2020, the South-Central Railways and SBI signed MoU to implement door step banking in 585 railway stations.

8. According to the data released by Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation on January 13, 2020, the food inflation increased to 14.12% in December 2019 as compared to 10.01% in November 2019. The CPI (consumer Price Index) rose to 7.35% as compared to 5.54% the previous month. The inflation was increase was mainly due to vegetables.

9. On January 10, 2020, the Ministry of Steel announced that it will launch “Purvodaya”, a world class steel hub. The hub aims at an accelerated development programme of eastern states. The Ministry will be joined by CII (Confederation of India Industries) in the implementation of “Purvodaya”.

10. On January 8, 2020, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the North East Gas Pipeline Grid. The pipeline is to be constructed for around 1,656 km.

11. On January 7, 2020, the second National GST Conference and Central and State Commissioners was held to streamline the Goods and Services Tax. The Revenue Secretary of Ministry of Finance Dr Ajay Bhushan Pandey was the Chairman of the conference.

12. On January 7, 2020, the CSO (Central Statistics Office) operating under Ministry of Statistics and Programme implementation released the first advance estimates of GDP number for the fiscal year 2020. The numbers are in line with the predictions of Reserve Bank of India.

13. RBI announced that Foreign Exchange Reserves of India has swelled by 2.52 billion USD in the week that ended on December 27, 2019. The Central Bank also said that the country’s special drawing rights with the IMF (International Monetary Fund) dipped by 2 million USD and the reserve position increased by 58 million USD. Currently, India SDR with the IMF is 1.4441 billion USD and the reserve is 3.7 billion USD.

14. Ministry of Commerce and industry has announced that 371 items from China will get strict restriction from March 2020. The move aims at curbing imports of non-essential items such as plastic goods, toys, furniture, sports.

15. Government of India misses its disinvestment target as the plan to sell Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), Air India and Container Corporation of India has not been succeeded.

16. The prices of Darjeeling Tea that recently received GI tag has fell by 20% to 25% due to unchecked flow of Nepal Tea into the country.

17. On January 01, 2020, the Reserve Bank of India launched the MANI application for visually challenged persons to identify new currency notes that were launched after demonetization. MANI is Mobile Aided Note Identifier.

18. On December 31, 2019, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman announced 102 lakh crore worth projects to be implemented in next 5 years. During the announcement, she also released the report of Task Force on National Infrastructure Pipeline for 2019-2025.

Science & Technology

1. On January 31, 2020, Google announced I million USD grant to promote news literacy among Indians. Also, the organization has launched a new application called “Tangi”.

2. On January 29, 2020, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) launched Bhuvan Panchayat version 3.0.

3. On January 26, 2020, the Defence Research Development Organization (DRDO) displayed the A-SAT weapon system. A-SAT is the Anti-Satellite Weapon System. India is one of the few countries in the world to own the technology. The other countries include US, China and Russia.

4. The East Coast Railways commissioned the first waste-to-energy plant of Railways sector of India. It is the fourth such plant in the country. The plant has been set up at a cost of Rs 1.79 crores with Polycrack technology.

5. On January 25, 2020, India’s first Super Fab Lab was inaugurated in Kerala. The laboratory is to function in collaboration with Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), USA. It is the only laboratory that is being installed outside US.

6. On January 25, 2020, the Department of Biotechnology held an International Summit on Women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) on the theme : Visualizing the Future: New Skylines. The summit aimed to increase the participation of women in STEM field.

7. ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) is to send a half-humanoid robot called the “Vyom Mitra” as an experimental mission to Gaganyaan. Vyom Mitra means a friend in Sky.

8. The Ministry of Earth Science has launched Seismic Hazard Microzonation project in major cities of India. The project aims to reduce hazards of seismic activities by putting in adequate measures.

9. On January 17, 2020, the Indian Space Research Organization will launch GSAT-30 satellite on the launch vehicle Ariane-5. It is to be launched in Ariane Launch Complex at Kourou. Kourou is a French territory that if located along the north eastern coast of South America.

10. The LIGO (Laser Inferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory) detected gravitational waves due to collision of two neutron stars. This is the second time the gravitational waves are being detected.

11. The Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS) will track Indian satellites in low-earth orbits. It is a new satellite series that plans to set up a communication system between the space assets of India.

12. On January 6, 2020, the ISRO proposed 2,700 crores of infrastructure plan to construct Human Space Flight Infrastructure Centre. The facility is to be set up at Challakere, Chitradurga district of Karnataka and is expected to become operational in three years.

13. On January 6, 2020, the National Stock Exchange (NSE) knowledge Hub was inaugurated. The hub will assist insurance, banking and financial services. The hub has adopted the latest technology of Artificial Intelligence.

14. The Indian Space Research Organization signed a pact with Indian Institute of Astrophysics to establish an optical telescope under “Project NETRA”. The organisation also tied up with NIT-Karnataka to set up a regional academic centre for space to promote research and development.

15. On January 3, 2020, PM Modi inaugurated the 107th Indian Science Congress in Bengaluru. He launched the I-Stem portal at the inaugural function. Also, the Defence Research Development Organization (DRDO) has installed more than 150 exhibits at the congress.

16. The Ministry of External Affairs is to set up a new division called NEST-New and Emerging Strategic Technologies. The division will work to increase investment coordination among the states of the country and also with the foreign countries.

Government Schemes

1. The MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi Rural Employment Guarantee Employment Act) scheme released its financial statement recently. According to the statement, almost 96% of the money has already been spent. Only 2,500 crores of rupees is left to sustain the scheme for the next two months.

2. The Government of India will release a report card on 100 selected smart cities by June 2020. The cities are to be assessed based on public performance index, ease of living and climate in June. The initiative is being undertaken as the Smart City Project completes 5 years in June.

3. On January 23, 2020, Ghana announced that the country will replicate the Ujjwala model of LPG connection under the guidance of India (represented by Indian Oil Corporation).

4. On 22 January, 2020, PM Modi chaired the 32nd PRAGATI meet. Under the Pro-Active Governance and Timely Implementation, the Prime Minister reviewed projects that are being implemented by the union government and their progress.

5. On January 5, 2020, Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) and LED Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP) marked their fifth anniversary. The schemes were implemented by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL). EESL is a joint venture of PSU operating under Ministry of Power.

6. On January 5, 2020, the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) announced that eight states namely Maharashtra, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Nagaland, Assam, Tamil Nadu, Punjab and Karnataka finalised their action plan to boost agricultural exports.

7. The National Pension Scheme for traders, Shopkeepers and Self-Employed persons, also called the Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Maan-dhan Yojana was launched in July 2019. It aimed at benefitting 3 crore small traders and shopkeepers.

8. On January 3, 2020, Cyber Safe Initiative was launched by Maharashtra Government. The initiative was launched commemorating the birth anniversary of Indian Social Reformer Savitribai Phule. Savitribai Phule was the first female teacher of India.

9. On January 3, 2020, around 171 hospitals were de-empanelled by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for committing fraud. The Ministry had also imposed a fine of Rs 4.5 crores. The FIRs were lodged on 6 hospitals in Uttarakhand and Jharkhand states.

10. The Department of Heavy Industries operating under Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises has sanctioned 2636 Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations under FAME India scheme Phase II. The stations are to be set in 62 cities in 24 states and Union Territories.

11. PM Modi is to release the fourth instalment of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Yojana in Tumakuru, Karnataka. The Prime Minister will also confer “Krishi Karmanya” award to three fishermen and 28 progressive farmers from various states.

Awards & Honours

1. On January 26, 2020, Government of India announced 141 Padma Awards on the occasion of 71st Republic Day celebrations.
Former Union Ministers George Fernandes, Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj are to be awarded with Padma Vibhushan posthumously. Former PM of Mauritius Anerood Jugnauth, Boxer MC Mary Kom, Hindustani classical vocalist Chhannulal Mishra are also to be awarded with the prestigious award.
The former CM of Goa Manohar Parrikar is to be conferred with the award posthumously.

2. On January 14, 2020, the Agricultural Scientist Prof M S Swaminathan was awarded the “Muppavarapu Venenkaiah Naidu” National award. The award was also presented to Mr Muniratnam. Mr Muniratnam was the first person to receive the award four days back.

Defence

1. A Joint Military Exercise between India and Bangladesh is to be held at Umroi, Meghalaya between 3rd February, 2020 and 16th February, 2020. The exercise is called “SAMPRITI”

2. The Assam Rifles has constructed war memorial for 357 personnel who sacrificed their lives fighting against insurgency in the North Eastern State. The Memorial is first of its kind in the state. It has been constructed at Mokokchung in Assam.

3. On January 22, 2020, the Defence Acquisition Council approved the Procurement of defence equipment that are of worth Rs 5,100 crores. The equipment are to be purchased from indigenous sources.

4. The Department of Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) operating under Ministry of Commerce and Industry is to showcase tableau on Start Up India at the Republic Day Parade to be held at Rajpath, New Delhi. The tableau is to be held under the theme : Reach for the sky. This is the first time Start Up India is participating at the Parade.

5. The Republic Day parade held at Rajpath every year is one of the largest parades of the world. The parade marches from Rashtrapati Bhawan along Rajpath until India Gate. This year the parade has certain events to express the woman power in the defence sector.

6. On January 20, 2020, the 222 Squadron of Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jets was inducted by the Indian Air Force in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. The squadron has been named “Tiger Sharks”.

7. On January 19, 2020, India test fired K4, a 3,500 km range nuclear capable missile successfully. The missile is meant for Arihant-class submarines. Arihant is the first indigenously manufactured nuclear submarine.

8. The Indian Army recently conducted the largest air borne exercise called the Winged Raider. Around 500 troops participated in the exercise. The exercise was conducted in the north-eastern theatre.

9. On January 16, 2020, India and Japan took part in a joint exercise called “Sahyog-Kaijin”. The exercise was held between the coastal guards of the countries at Chennai Port.

10. On January 13, 2020, the Ministry of Defence announces new fuel upgradation for Indian Navy with revised technical specifications. The High Flash High Speed Diesel (HFHSD) was launched. The aim of the new fuel introduction is to reduce carbon footprint.

11. The Government of India will acquire around 200 aircrafts. Of these 200, 83 fighter jets are LCA Tejas Mark 1A and are to be procured from HAL. The rest are to be procured based on Request for Proposals.

12. On January 11, 2020, the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), Tejas successfully landed on INS Vikramaditya. With this achievement, the LCA becomes the first aircraft to make an arrested landing on a naval ship.

13. India will erect non-cut steel fence in the sensitive areas of Pakistan and Bangladesh borders. The plan is being executed after security agencies have detected Afghan fighters along India-Pakistan border.

14. On January 6, 2020, China and Pakistan had launched a naval drill in North Arabian Sea called the Sea Guardians. The aim of the drill is to increase inter-operability between the two navies. On January 10, 2020, India deployed its INS Vikramaditya in North Arabian Sea where the exercise is being held.

15. On January 10, 2020, Indian Navy will be hosting military drill called ‘Milan 2020’ at Visakhapatnam, The City of Destiny. MILAN stands for ‘Multilateral Naval Exercise’. The Event will witness the participation of several countries. Apart from a large number of ships, senior dignitaries are also expected to take part in various functions and visit naval facilities during MILAN 2020. The theme of the exercise is

16. On December 7, 2020, the Indian Army began its work on the GOCO (Government Owned Contractor Operated) Model. The model is extended to base workshops and ordnance depots. The workshops play vital role as they ensure the Indian Army is operationally prepared all the time.

17. On January 6, 2020, two Oman ships arrived in Goa to participate in “Naseem-Al-Bahr”, the Indo-Oman bilateral naval exercise.

18. The CISF observes 2020 as the “Year of Mobility” for the welfare of the troops. It will focus on construction of residential units and implementation of welfare measures.

19. The Indian Army will sign MoU with Russia to procure AK-203 assault rifles. According to the deal, around 1 lakh rifles are to be received directly from Russia and the rest will be manufactured in India.

20. On January 1, 2020, India and Pakistan exchanged list of prisoners and fishermen. The countries exchange the information every year on 1st January and 1st July. They also exchanged nuclear installations alongside on the same day.

21. On January 2, 2020, PM Modi will dedicate five DRDO laboratories to the country. The laboratories are for young scientists to boost their research capabilities.

22. On January 1, 2020, India and Pakistan exchanged their nuclear installations under an agreement that prevents them from attacking each other’s atomic facilities. The practice is being followed for 29 years for now.

Constitution & Law

1. On January 29, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2020. The bill aims to amend the Medical Termination of Pregnancy act, 1971. The bill is to be introduced in the coming session of Parliament

2. The Union Cabinet on January 29, 2020 approved the official amendments to National Commission for Indian System of Medicine bill, 2019. The bill is currently pending in Rajya Sabha.

3. On January 29, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved National Commission for homeopathy bill, 2019. The bill is being introduced for the following amendments.
    I. To introduce reforms in the field of Homeopathy education.
    II. To enable accountability and transparency in protecting the interests of general public.

4. On January 27, 2020, the Andhra Pradesh cabinet cleared to abolish Legislative Council. It is to be noted that the Legislative Council stalled two bills that were passed by the assembly. It includes AP Capital Region Development Authority Repeal Bill and Decentralization bill.

5. On January 11, 2020, the Government of India promulgated ordinance to amend coal mining laws in order to ease auction of coal mines.

Sports

1. The Indian Women Hockey Team player Rani Rampal has won the “World Game Athlete of the Year, 2019” title. She is the first hockey player in the world to receive the title.

2. The Khelo India Youth Game is to be held between February 10, 2020 and February 22, 2020 in Guwahati, Assam. The Games are conducted annually.

3. Indian Grandmaster Koneru Humpy claimed the 2019 Women’s World Rapid Chess Champion tiltle. The winner of Women’s World Rapid Championship was decided in a playoff that ended with Humpy beating China’s Lei Tingjie in a dramatic final in Moscow, Russia.

4. Saikhom Mirabai Chanu (24), the Former world champion weightlifter won the women’s 49kg category gold medal to open India’s account at 6th Qatar International Cup being held in Doha. Chanu lifted 83kg in snatch and 111kg in clean and jerk to finish on top of podium. However, her performance was way below her personal best of 201 kg which she lifted during this year’s World Championships in Thailand.

5. The Australian pacer Pat Cummins, with a base price of Rs.2 crore, became the most expensive overseas player in Indian Premier League (IPL) as he was sold to Kolkata Knight Riders (KKR) for a whopping Rs.15.50 crore($2.2 million).

6. The International Cricket Council (ICC) announced the Australian all-rounder Ellyse Perry as the winner of Rachael Heyhoe-Flint Award for ICC Women’s Cricketer of the Year. The 29-year-old has also been named as ICC Women’s ODI Player of Year.

7. The coveted FICCI India Sports Awards 2019 were presented to the winners on 11 December 2019 at New Delhi. The awards are an attempt by FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry) to acknowledge and recognize contribution of sports persons and various stakeholders who deliver excellent results during the year.

8. South Asian Games 2019 concluded on 10 December in Nepal, with India finishing on top with a best-ever medal haul of 312 medals comprising of 174 gold, 93 silver and 45 bronze. Host Nepal remained second and Sri Lanka got third place in the regional multi-sporting. The year 2019 marks the 13th edition of South Asian Games.

9. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has slapped Russia with a four-year ban from international sports events, over longstanding doping scandal. The ban includes next summer’s Tokyo Olympics (which opens 24 July 2020) and 2022 Beijing Winter Games. However, Russia’s anti-doping agency can appeal decision to Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) within 21 days.

10. India has won 110 gold, 69 silver and 35 bronze at the South Asian Games, 2019. On the whole India won 214 medals. The event was held in Nepal.

11. Winners of 2019 Ballon d’Or awards (“Golden Ball”) which recognises the best footballer in world for 2019, were announced by France Football magazine in Paris on 2 December 2019. This year was the 64th annual ceremony of Ballon d’Or, presented by France Football. The nominees for awards were announced on 6 November 2019.

12. On December 1, 2019, the President of Nepal Bidya Devi Bhandari opened the South Asian Games in Kathmandu. The event is scheduled to be conducted for 10 days. Around 487 athletes are participating from India.

References:
gktoday.in
jagranjosh.com
business-standard.com

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