current affairs magazine (february 2017) · virat kohli maintained his top spot in the latest icc...

Current Affairs Magazine (February 2017)

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Political parties to file audited returns by Dec every year to avail tax benefit: Govt.

Revenue Secretary Hasmukh Adhia said, political parties have to file audited returns by December every year or risk losing tax exemptions. Mr Adhia said donations to political parties via electoral bonds will be confidential and donor's identity will not to be disclosed.

Rex Tillerson sworn-in as US secretary of state.

In US, Rex Tillerson, the former chairman and chief executive of Exxon Mobil, has been sworn in as President Donald Trump’s Secretary of State.

Virat Kohli remains top T20 batsman, India rise to second on ICC rankings.

Virat Kohli maintained his top spot in the latest ICC rankings of T20 batsmen while India have gained a spot by virtue of their series win against England to climb to the second spot in the team rankings.

Tata Motors Unveils New Sub-Brand TAMO.

Tata Motors presented its new passenger vehicle strategy and introduced its new sub-brand - TAMO. While yes, it is short for Tata Motors, the company calls it the Tata's Future Mobility. TAMO will act as an incubating centre of innovation towards new technologies, business models and partnerships in order to define future mobility solutions.

Indian-American Plans To Set Up Eight Cricket Stadiums In The US.

Indian-American cricket enthusiast Jignesh (Jay) Panda plans to build eight cricket stadiums across the US at an estimated cost of 2.4 billion US dollars.

After Trump, Now Kuwait Bans 5 Muslim-Majority Countries, Including Pakistan.

Kuwait has suspended the issuance of visas for nationals of Syria, Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Iran. After US President Donald Trump's executive order banning seven Muslim-majority countries last Friday, the Kuwaiti government has told would-be migrants from the five banned nations to not apply for visas, as it is worried about the possible migration of radical Islamic terrorists.

Kerala Govt to launch e-payment system in Registration Department.

Moving forward to introduce cashless transactions in government services, CPI(M)-led LDF Government in Kerala decided to implement e-payment system in the Registration Department to accept registration fee.



Sachin Tendulkar inaugurates sports medicine with advanced centres in Kerala.

Cricketing legend Sachin Tendulkar along with Dr. Azad Moopen, Founder Chairman & Managing Director of Aster DM Healthcare, inaugurated the Centre for Sports Medicine & Advanced Rehabilitation at Aster MIMS, Kozhikode and the Centre for Sports Medicine & Advanced Rehabilitations at Aster Medcity, Kochi.

Madhu Kannan to join Uber as CBO India & EMs.

Cab aggregator Uber has roped in former Tata Sons executive Madhu Kannan as Chief Business Officer, India and Emerging Markets.

Haryana government approves policy on land acquisition.

The Haryana government approved a policy on purchase of land voluntarily offered to government by farmers for development projects. The policy aims at preventing distress sales of land by farmers and involving the land owners in decision making while locating the sites of development projects in the state. The Cabinet also approved a proposal for providing guarantee for a loan of Rs 876 crore to be taken by Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation from HUDCO to acquire 365 acres of land for the Mass Rapid Transport System project between Gurugram and Manesar.

Arunachal CM Pema Khandu approves creation of 10 new posts in APPSC.

Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu approved creation of 10 new posts for Arunachal Pradesh Public Service Commission. Considering the exigency, Khandu approved for creation of 10 various categories, Group A, B and C posts in the APPSC to meet the requirement.

India Gaming Show 2017 begins today.

India Gaming Show (IGS) 2017, an International gaming, animation and infotainment event, kicked off in New Delhi on 2 February 2017. The event is taking place from February 2 to 5 and is organised by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).

Union Budget 2017: AIIMS to be set up in Jharkhand & Gujarat.

Presenting the Union budget for 2017-18 in the Lok Sabha today, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said two new All India Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) will be set up in Jharkhand and Gujarat.

Union Budget 2017: No Service Charge On Train Tickets Booked On IRCTC Website.

The booking of railway tickets online through the IRCTC website has just become cheaper. In the Union Budget 2017 presented today, finance minister Arun Jaitley said



railways will no longer levy service charge on train tickets booked online through the IRCTC website. Earlier, a service tax of Rs. 20 had to paid while booking Sleeper Class tickets and Rs. 40 for AC class tickets. "Service charges on e-tickets booked through IRCTC will be withdrawn. Cashless reservations have gone up from 58 per cent to 68 per cent,"

Former Union Minister E Ahmad passes away.

Former Union Minister E Ahamed has passed away in the wee hours of today after suffering from heart attack. He breathed his last at the RML Hospital in the national capital.

India's forex reserves soar by $ 932.4 million to $ 360.775 billion.

Rising for the second consecutive week, India’s Foreign Exchange Reserves soared by 932.4 million dollars to 360.775 billion dollars in the week ended January 20.

Rupak Kumar Dutta appointed as DGP of Karnataka.

Rupak Kumar Dutta was on 31 January 2017 appointed as the Director General of Police (DGP) of Karnataka. Dutta succeeds Om Prakash, who retired from his service as Director General and Inspector General of Police on superannuation.

Google overtakes Apple as the World's most valuable Brand.

Apple, the most valuable brand in the world for the past five years, has yielded the top spot to Google, according to a new report. The iPhone maker's brand value has plummeted 27% to $107 billion since the start of last year, according to Brand Finance’s Global 500 2017 report. Google’s brand, however, is now worth $109 billion, making it the most lucrative in the world. It is the first time the search giant has topped the list since 2011.

Lakshya Sen becomes World No.1 Junior Badminton player

India's Lakshya Sen has become the World No 1 Junior Badminton player. He achieved the distinction yesterday in the latest rankings of the Badminton World Federation(BWF).

Arun Jaitley introduces demonetisation bill in Lok Sabha

The government today introduced a bill in the Lok Sabha which provides for holding, transfer and receiving of old 500 and 1000 rupee notes a criminal offence. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley moved the Specified Bank Notes (Cessation of Liabilities)Bill,2017 in the House.

UIDAI shuts down 24 unauthorised websites, mobile apps



In a massive crackdown on unauthorised agencies offering Aadhaar-related services illegally and charging excessive money from the public, UIDAI has shut down 12 such websites and 12 mobile apps available on the Google Playstore.

11,86,000 bank accounts opened & activated for textile workers: Smriti Irani

Textile Ministry has said over 11 lakh 86 thousand bank accounts have been opened and activated for textile workers, which includes 17 thousand jute workers.

BSE Institute BIL Launches PG Course In Global Financial Markets.

BSE Institute Ltd (BIL), an arm of the stock exchange BSE, today announced the launch of its post graduate program in global financial markets with a specialisation in Fin-Tech - a first of its kind in India. The Post Graduate Program in Global Financial Markets is a 2 years full time autonomous, industry defined program, with a dual certification from BSE Institute and MBA-Financial Markets Practice (FMP) from Chitkara University.

Vikram Limaye, MD of IDFC, named new MD & CEO of NSE.

The National Stock Exchange (NSE), India's largest stock exchange by turnover, on 3 February named Vikram Limaye, Managing Director of IDFC, as the new Managing Director.

Defence firm Thales appoints new India head.

European defence firm Thales, which is supplying the radar and electronics equipment for 36 Dassault Aviation Rafale fighter jets that India is buying from France, on Friday appointed Emmanuel de Roquefeuil as its new country head.

Anand Kumar Gupta takes over as director commercial at NTPC.

Anand Kumar Gupta has taken over the charge as director commercial at NTPC on 3 February.

TRAI imposed Rs 11 crore penalty on telcos for poor service.

Telecom regulator TRAI has imposed over Rs 11 crore penalty on service providers, highest on Aircel, for poor service quality including call drops. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has imposed over Rs 3 crore penalty on Aircel for not meeting set quality parameters for 2G service and Rs 1.56 crore for poor 3G service quality. Penalty of Rs 2.27 crore has been imposed on BSNL, Rs 1.64 crore on Reliance Communications (including Reliance Telecom), Rs 89 lakh on Tata Teleservices, Rs 84 lakh Vodafone, Rs 40 lakh on Bharti Airtel, Rs 13.5 lakh on Telenor, Rs 3 lakh on Sistema and Rs 1.5 lakh on MTNL for failing to meet 2G service quality parameters. Apart from Aircel, TRAI has imposed Rs 70 lakh penalty on BSNL and Rs 2.5 lakh on



Vodafone for breaching 3G service quality benchmark.

4 February: World Cancer Day

World Cancer Day (WCD) 2017 was observed across the world on 4 February 2017. The theme for the World Cancer Day 2016-2018 is ‘We can. I can.’

Assembly Elections: Record 83% voter turnout in Goa, 70% in Punjab.

Goa registered a record voter turnout of 83 percent in today's assembly polls. The state had recorded 81.8 percent polling in last assembly elections.

Virat Kohli features in latest cover star of Wisden Cricketers' Almanack.

Indian skipper Virat Kohli, who led his side to victory against England in all three formats of the game recently, has featured in the latest cover star of the bible of cricket - Wisden Cricketers' Almanack. Kohli becomes only the third Asian origin player after Tendulkar and England all-rounder Moeen Ali to be featured on the cover of the magazine.

Cricket South Africa To Launch 'Global' Twenty20 League.

Cricket South Africa (CSA) on 4 February 2017 announced the launch of a eight-team franchise-based Twenty20 league which it hopes will attract major international investment and big-name players. The #T20 Global League appears to be based on the successful Indian Premier League and Australia's Big Bash League.

Google Sells Satellite Imaging Business Terra Bella to Planet Labs.

Alphabet Inc's Google said on 3 February it would sell its satellite imaging business, Terra Bella, to Planet Labs, a San Francisco-based private satellite operator founded by former NASA scientists.

Tirath Singh Rawat appointed BJP national secretary.

Former Uttarakhand BJP chief Tirath Singh Rawat on 4th February 2017 was appointed as the party’s national secretary.

Abdul Basit to be appointed as Pakistan Foreign Secretary Islamabad.

Pakistan’s High Commissioner in India Abdul Basit is set to replace Aizaz Ahmad Chaudhary as the new Foreign Secretary.

PM Narendra Modi likely to make first visit to Israel in June-July.



Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s much-anticipated visit to Israel could take place in mid-2017 in what would be the first such tour by an Indian Premier to the Jewish state.

Mughal Garden to have roses named after President Pranab Mukherjee and his wife.

President Pranab Mukherjee on 4th February 2017 opened the annual ‘Udyanotsav’ of Rashtrapati Bhavan and the main attraction of the event were the flowers named after President and his wife. The Mughal Garden will now have two new varieties of roses named ‘President Pranab’ and ‘Suvra Mukherjee’.

Top Indian diplomat re-appointed to UN Joint Inspection Unit.

Achamkulangare Gopinathan, a top Indian diplomat, has been re-appointed by the UN General Assembly to the Joint Inspection Unit. The Joint Inspection Unit is the only independent external oversight body of the United Nations system mandated to conduct evaluations, inspections and investigations system-wide.

Sanjeev Sanyal appointed as Principal Economic Adviser.

Government on 3rd February appointed noted economist Sanjeev Sanyal as Principal Economic Adviser in the Ministry of Finance.

Former CBI director Joginder Singh passes away at 77.

Former Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) director Joginder Singh passed away after a prolonged illness. He was 77.

Venkaiah Naidu Inaugurated the 3-day Visakha Utsav in Visakhapatnam.

The three-day Visakha Utsav was inaugurated by M. Venkaiah Naidu, the Union Minister for Information and Broadcasting and Urban Development, in Visakhapatnam on 3 February 2017.

Sasikala Natarajan elected as new AIADMK legislative leader, to take over as Tamil Nadu CM soon.O Pannerselvam steps down.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister O Panneerselvam stepped down on 5th February, clearing decks for Sasikala Natarajan - the longtime companion of J Jayalalithaa, who became the party chief after her death to take over the reins of power in the state.

'La La Land' continues to dominate awards season, wins top honour at DGA Awards.

'La La Land' director Damien Chazelle has waltzed off with the top honor at the Directors Guild of America Awards held Saturday in Beverly Hills. At 32-years-old,



Chazelle, a first-time nominee, is the youngest ever recipient of the prize. The DGA win is the next step on the path to the Oscars.

Iconic Mughal Gardens opens to public from today.

The iconic Mughal Gardens of the Rashtrapati Bhavan will open for the general public from today (5 february). President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the gardens, as part of the annual Udyanotsav yesterday.

MEA to host Implementation and Assessment Group Meeting of GICNT on February 8-10.

The Ministry of External Affairs in coordination with the Department of Atomic Energy will host the Implementation and Assessment Group Meeting of the Global Initiative to combat Nuclear Terrorism on February 8-10, 2017 at the Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra.

IndiGo Security Training Centre Licence Suspended.

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has suspended the licence of IndiGo's aviation security training facility for alleged lapses in the examination system conducted by the airline.

Health Ministry launches Measles Rubella vaccination campaign.

Health Ministry on 5th february 2017 launched Measles Rubella vaccination campaign in the country at a function in Bengaluru. The campaign against these two diseases will start from Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Goa and Lakshadweep, covering nearly 3.6 crore children. Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, Faggan Singh Kulaste launched this initiative at a function in Bengaluru.

Renowned Urdu author Bano Qudsia passes away.

Renowned Pakistani Urdu novelist and playwright Bano Qudsia has passed away in Lahore. She was 88. Among her prominent writings include Aadhi Baat, Aatish-i-zer-i-paa, Aik Din, Amer Bail, Asay Pasay, Chahar Chaman, Chhotaa Sheher Baray Log, Footpath ki Ghaas, Hasil Ghaat and Hawa Kay Naam. She was awarded Sitara-i-Imtiaz in 2003 and Hilal-i-Imtiaz in 2010.

Indian boys win team gold in Asian Junior Squash.

Top seed India defeated Malaysia 2-0 to win the gold medal in the boy's team event at the Asian Junior Squash championship in Hong Kong today (5 February 2017). India's no.1 player Velavan Senthilkumar first defeated second seed Malaysia's Ong Sai Hun in quick time. Then Abhay Singh prevailed over Darren Rahul in hard-fought five games to lift the title for India.

Debendranath Sarangi elected vice-president of Asia Squash Federation.



Debendranath Sarangi was elected as the vice-president of the Asia Squash Federation with two-third majority at the 37th ASF Annual General Meeting. Sarangi, who is the President of the Squash Rackets Federation of India, replaced the sitting VP and management committee member Syed Razi Nawab of Pakistan. He is the second Indian to become the vice-president of the ASF. N Ramachandran, the former World Squash Federation (WSF) President, had earlier served as the vice-president of the Asian body.

Qatar Airways launches world’s longest flight.

Qatar Airways launched the world’s longest scheduled commercial service with its inaugural flight from Doha to Auckland taking off eight minutes early on 5 February 2017. The Boeing 777 flight will take 16 hours and 20 minutes, pass over 10 time zones, five countries and travel 14,535 kilometres before reaching Auckland.

6 February: International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation 2017 observed.

The International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation was observed across the world on 6 February 2017. The theme for the 2017 International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is “Building a solid and interactive bridge between Africa and the world to accelerate ending FGM by 2030.”

Iran lifts ban on US wrestlers.

Iran has lifted a ban on US wrestlers, allowing them to take part in the Freestyle World Cup later this month in the Iranian city of Kermanshah.

First Smart Police Station inaugurated in Andhra Pradesh.

In Andhra Pradesh, the first Smart Police Station, having look and feel of a corporate-style office, started functioning from today. Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu today inaugurated the first model police station at Nagarampalem in the capital region Amaravati.

India to host FIBA Women's Asia Cup basketball tournament.

India will host FIBA Women's Asia Cup basketball tournament at Bengaluru in July. Basketball Federation of India (BFI) President K Govindaraj said the continental flagship tournament for women will be hled from July 23 to 29.

ISRO to Launch Record 104 Satellites on a Single Launch Next Week.

India will create history by launching a record 104 satellites, including 101 foreign ones, on February 15 from Sriharikota spaceport in Andhra Pradesh.

UberHIRE Launched in India.



After a successful pilot run in Kochi, Uber has launched its time-based on-demand offering UberHIRE for nine Indian cities including New Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Mumbai, Pune, Ahmedabad, Vizag, and Nagpur.

PM Narendra Modi to attend St Petersburg international economic forum.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Russia in June to attend St Petersburg International Economic Forum (SPIEF), where India has been invited as a 'Guest Country'. The Forum is an international economics and business event held annually with the participation of the President of the Russian Federation.

Indian-origin British sculptor wins $1 million ‘Jewish Nobel’.

Well known Indian-origin British sculptor Anish Kapoor was on 6 February 2017 named the winner of a prestigious $1 million Genesis Prize by Israel for his commitment to Jewish values.

Arun M Kumar appointed as Chairman and CEO of KPMG India.

Arun M Kumar was on 5 February 2017 appointed as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of KPMG India. Kumar will serve the office for five years.

Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda Sonowal launches CMSGUY in Guwahati .

Assam Chief Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal launched the Chief Minister Samagra Gramya Unnayan Yojana (CMSGUY) in Guwahati, Assam on 5 February 2017. The Yojana has been launched with the aim of bringing a paradigm shift towards holistic development of villages in Assam.

Vijay Goel lays foundation stone for first ever training centre for differently abled sportsmen.

The Union Minister for Sports, Vijay Goel laid the foundation stone of the boundary wall of the first ever Centre of Excellence for differently abled sportsmen on 5 February 2017 in Sector-25 in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.

N Chandrasekaran elected as Chairman Tata Steel Board.

N Chandrasekaran, chairman designate of Tata Sons and currently the CEO and Managing Director of Tata Consultancy Services, was today (7 February 2017) elected as Chairman of Tata Steel Board.

India to host meet on Nuclear Terrorism Tomorrow (8 February 2017).



India will host a meeting on combating nuclear terrorism -- a move that could boost its bid to enter the elite Nuclear Suppliers Group in face of opposition from China. The two-day "Implementation and Assessment Group Meeting of the Global Initiative to Combat Nuclear Terrorism", to be attended by 150 delegates from around the world, will begin in Delhi tomorrow.

Lok Sabha passes Specified Bank Notes Bill.

The Lok Sabha today passed the Specified Bank Notes (Cessation of Liabilities) Bill,2017 which provides for holding, transfer and receiving of old 500 and 1000 rupee notes a criminal offence which bill seeks to end the liability of RBI and the government on the currency notes demonetised in November last year.

CBDT issues new appreciation letters to 3.74 lakh taxpayers.

The Central Board of Direct Taxes has issued third round of Certificates of appreciation to nearly 3.74 Lakh tax payers for their contribution towards Nation building. With this, the total number of certificates issued by CBDT now stands at approximately 23 Lakh.

National Badminton Championship: Sourabh Verma clinches Men’s Singles title.

Sourabh Verma clinched the Men’s Singles title defeating Lakshya Sen in the 81 st Senior National Badminton Championships tournament played in Patna today. Sourabh beat Lakshya Sen 21-13, 21-12.

Alastair Cook resigns as England Test captain.

Alastair Cook has resigned as England Test captain after a record 59 matches in the role. Cook tendered his resignation to England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB) chairman Colin Graves.

AirAsia India appoints retired Tata Power executive Deepak Mahendra as CFO.

AirAsia India has appointed Deepak Mahendra, a retired Tata Power executive, as its chief financial officer.

Veteran freedom fighter Racharla Samrajyam passes away.

Racharla Samrajyam, a veteran freedom fighter, passed away on 6 February 2017 following age-related illness at Vishakhapatnam. She was 98

West Bengal Advocate-General Jayanta Mitra resigns.



West Bengal’s Advocate-General Jayanta Mitra today resigned following difference of opinion with the state government. He tendered his resignation to Governor K.N. Tripathi.

No limit on cash withdrawal from March 13: RBI.

RBI has announced all limits on cash withdrawals from Savings Bank Account will be withdrawn from 13th March 2017. Deputy Governor R Gandhi said that the limit on cash withdrawal from Savings Bank Account will be enhanced to 50,000 rupees from the current 24,000 rupees from 20th February.

Parliament passes Payment of Wages Bill.

Parliament has passed the Payment of Wages Amendment Bill 2017 with the Rajya Sabha approving it today as the Lok Sabha had passed it yesterday.

Education Secretary nominee Betsy DeVos wins Senate confirmation vote.

In United States, Senate has confirmed President Donald Trump's controversial nominee for Education Secretary, Betsy DeVos, by the slenderest possible margin.

NASA’s Juno completed fourth Λyby of Jupiter.

The Juno spacecraft successfully completed its fourth flyby of Jupiter in the first week of February 2017. During the flyby, all the eight scientific instruments on board the spacecraft were switched on. Compared to its previous three flyby operations, the fourth flyby was closest to the Jupiter. During the present operation, the spacecraft was located at 4,300 km above Jupiter's cloud tops and was travelling at a speed of about 2,08,000 kilometers per hour (kmph).

Internet to be available in all gram panchayats by next year: Government.

Internet services are expected to be provided to all the 2.5 lakh gram panchayats by the end of next year, government told Lok Sabha today. One lakh gram panchayats are to be connected by underground Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) by March this year under the first phase of BharatNet project. Under the second phase of BharatNet project, remaining 1.5 lakh gram panchayats are to be provided connectivity by December 2018

Government approves revenue insurance scheme for plantation crops.

The commerce ministry has approved the pilot Revenue Insurance Scheme for Plantation Crops for protecting the growers from the risks such as yield loss, pest attacks and income decline caused by fall in prices. The Price Stabilization Fund (PSF) Scheme, 2003 was closed on September 30, 2013 and Revenue Insurance Scheme for Plantation Crops (RISPC) is an improved form of the PSF.

UK House of Commons passes Brexit bill.



British MPs have overwhelmingly agreed in House of Commons to let the government begin the UK's departure from the EU as they voted for the Brexit bill. The draft legislation was approved by 494 votes to 122, and now moves to the House of Lords.

Aashay Verma & Priyanka selected in NBA-FIBA BWB.

For the first time, two Indian cagers - Aashay Verma and Priyanka Prabhakara - have been selected in a 67-strong international group of boys and girls for the NBA and FIBA's third annual Basketball without Borders (BWB) Global Camp in New Orleans, USA.

Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bill Introduced In Lok Sabha.

HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar introduced the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bill in the Lok Sabha. The Bill will provide degree granting power to the 20 IIMs. This Bill seeks to promote autonomy for IIMs and proposes that the Board of Governors will be the main executive body for each IIM.

Ola CFO Rajiv Bansal, CMO Raghuvesh Sarup Quit.

Transportation app Ola's chief financial officer (CFO) Rajiv Bansal and chief marketing officer (CMO) Raghuvesh Sarup have quit the company. Pallav Singh, who is currently senior vice president and head of Ola Money, has been given the additional responsibility as interim CFO.

Nokia to acquire software firm Comptel for $370 million.

Nokia acquired software company Comptel for some 347 million euros ($370 million). Comptel, an international software company based in Helsinki and a longtime partner of Nokia, processes some 20 percent of the world’s daily mobile usage data with more than 2 billion end users.

PM Narendra Modi to inaugurate 3-day National Women’s Parliament tomorrow.

A first-of-its-kind conclave in India, the National Women’s Parliament will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Pavitra Sangamam on the outskirts of Vijayawada city in Andhra Pradesh capital region Amaravati tomorrow.

First ever Himalayan Region Games to be held in Guwahati.

The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) will conduct the first ever Himalayan Region Games in Guwahati, Assam from April 21 to 30. The countries which will participate in the event are Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Afghanistan along with hosts India. The games will have various sports including, Archery, Athletic, Boxing, Fencing, Football, Judo, Kho-Kho, Squash, Table Tennis and Weightlifting. Guwahati has previously hosted the



South Asian Games in 2016. The chairman appointed for the Games Technical Conduct Committee is D R Chaudhary.

Union Cabinet approves Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan.

The Union Cabinet on 8 February 2017 approved the Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA). The programme aims at making 6 crore rural households digitally literate.

India ranks at 43rd position in 5th Annual International IP Index of USCC.

India ranked at 43rd position out of 45 countries in the 5th Annual International Intellectual Property (IP) Index of the US Chamber of Commerce (USCC). The 2017 International IP Index, named as 'The Roots of Innovation', was released on 8 February 2017.

Gujarat becomes first State for establishing cashless system for distribution of food grains.

Gujarat in the first week of February 2017 became the first State in the country for establishing a cashless system for distribution of food grains. An announcement in this regard was made by the Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Ram Vilas Paswan.

Arunachal Pradesh becomes first North-East state to implement e-Cabinet solution.

Arunachal Pradesh on 7 February 2017 became the first state in the northeast to implement eCabinet solution for the state cabinet members. With the e-Cabinet solution, the Arunachal Pradesh Government plans to streamline its decisionmaking process.

Somalia's Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo chosen as new President.

The Parliament of Somalia elected former Prime Minister Mohamed Abdullahi Farmajo, as the country's new president on 8 February 2017.

Ajay Tyagi appointed as new SEBI chief.

The ACC has today approved the appointment of of Ajay Tyagi as Security and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) chief.

Dr Harsh Vardhan releases Braille Atlas for visually impaired persons in New Delhi.



Science and Technology Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan today released Braille Atlas for visually impaired persons at a function in New Delhi. About 20 maps on different themes of physical, socio-economic and cultural aspects such as river system, natural vegetation, Metropolitan cities, Food crops and cash crops have been incorporated in the atlas. This Braille Atlas has been prepared by National Atlas and Thematic Mapping Organisation.

US Senate votes to confirm representative Tom Price as health secretary.

The US Senate voted today to confirm Representative, Tom Price as the top US health care official.The Senate voted 52-47 to approve the conservative Georgia Republican and orthopedic surgeon as the Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).

Welspun India Ltd ties-up with Cotton Egypt Association.

Welspun India Ltd (WIL) on 9 February 2017 entered into a co-operation agreement with Cotton Egypt Association (CEA) to promote and market Egyptian cotton products across the world.

National Deworming Day 2017 observed in India.

The National Deworming Day was observed on 10 February 2017 in India with an aim to tackle worm infections in children.

Indian-origin neurosurgeon shortlisted for NASA 2018 space mission.

An Indian-origin neurosurgeon currently based in Canada has been shortlisted by NASA for its 2018 space mission under the Citizen Science Astronaut (CSA) programme. If everything goes as per plan, 32-year old Dr Shawna Pandya may join the league of Kalpana Chawla and Sunita Williams.

CM Manohar Lal lays foundation stones of 21 govt colleges.

Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal today laid foundation stones of 21 government colleges to be set up in 13 districts of the state from Chandigarh through video conferencing. The government has made provision of 276 crore rupees for these colleges.

I&B Team win inter-ministry Hockey tournament 2016-17.

The inter-ministry Hockey tournament 2016 - 17 was held today at Central Secretariat Ground Vinay Marg, New Delhi. The final match played between I & B Ministry and Ministry of Health.

Official mascot of FIFA U-17 World Cup 'Kheleao' unveiled.



With just 238 days remaining for the start of FIFA Under-17 World Cup India 2017, the official mascot of the tournament 'Kheleao' was unveiled at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi today. A clouded leopard called Kheleao was introduced.

Aaadhaar card becomes a must to buy subsidised food grains in ration shops.

Centre has made the unique identification number mandatory for availing subsidised foodgrains from ration shops, reports fe Bureau in New Delhi.

President Pranab Mukherjee to launch solar power project at Rashtrapati Bhavan on Friday.

President Pranab Mukherjee will inaugurate the first phase of a solar power project in the President’s Estate on Friday. The project would generate 670 KW of solar power through rooftop solar panels installed on seven buildings in the President’s Estate.

Nokia to acquire Comptel Corporation to advance its software strategy.

Nokia Corporation 9 February 2017 announced to acquire Comptel Corporation to advance its software strategy. The acquisition will also provide service providers with a comprehensive solution to design, deliver, orchestrate and assure communications and digital services across all the networks.

India successfully test-fired home grown AAD interceptor missile.

India successfully test-fired its home grown Advanced Air Defence (AAD) interceptor missile from launching complex-IV of Dhamara Abdul Kalam defence base off Odisha coast.

Imran Tahir becomes number-one ranked ODI bowler in ICC Rankings.

South African Spinner Imran Tahir has jumped to the top of the ICC Player Rankings for ODI Bowlers after his recent performance against the touring Sri Lankans. The 37-year-old is already the number-one ranked bowler in the shortest format of the game and now the South African has managed to do the same in the One-day Internationals as well.

Hindustan Motors sells iconic Ambassador car brand to Peugeot for Rs.80 Crore.

Hindustan Motors has sold the iconic Ambassador car brand to European auto major Peugeot for Rs.80 crore. The Hindustan Ambassador car was discontinued in 2014 as sales dropped continuously and it could not keep up with the new generation of cars in the Indian market. In the 1980s, 24,000 units of the car were sold every year, whereas the annual sales trickled down to an average of 6,000 units in the 2000s.



IIT Kharagpur to set up country’s first School on Quality and Reliability.

IIT-Kharagpur is starting a school on Quality and Reliability (Q&R), a first of its kind in India. The Institute, which set the trend for engineering, management, medical technology and IPR law education in IITs in India, has now ventured in the domain of quality with an aim to improve the trinity of Process, Planet and People (3Ps) targeting Engineering, Human and Natural systems.

Single test for engineering colleges from 2018-19.

Stage has been set for single NEET-like examination for entrance to engineering colleges from the academic year 2018-19, with the HRD ministry asking the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) to spell out suitable norms for holding such an exercise. It has also been decided that the single entrance test would be conducted multiple times every year and it will be designed in a way that the linguistic diversity of the country is taken into consideration.

Rs 18,000 crore Ken-Betwa river linking project cleared.

The investment clearance committee, comprising officials from NITI Aayog and Union Water Resources Ministry, for Ken-Betwa river linking today gave the nod for the Rs 18,000-crore national project envisaged to address drinking water and irrigation requirements of the parched Bundelkhand region.

International Day of Women and Girls in Science observed.

The International Day of Women and Girls in Science was observed across the globe on 11 February 2017.

Mission XI Million launched to promote football among school children.

The Union Government on 10 February 2017 launched the Mission XI Million initiative to promote football among school children. The programme was launched by the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Youth Affairs and Sports Vijay Goel in the presence of the President of the All India Football Federation (AIFF) Praful Patel in New Delhi.

Three-day-culinary festival begins in Gurugram.

In a celebration of food with activities ranging from chefs demos and mixology sessions to Chefs workshops and a gourmet market, the NCR’s much loved food destination, DLF Cyber Hub in Gurugram, saw the kickstart of a three-day culinary festival on 11 February 2017.

Yusuf Pathan Becomes 1st Indian To Sign For Foreign League.



Yusuf Pathan has become the first Indian male cricketer who will take part in a foreign franchise-based Twenty20 league. He will participate in the Hong Kong Twenty20 League, scheduled to be held from March 8 to 12.

US, Japan successfully intercept missile in space.

The US and Japanese military have successfully tested the Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IIA missile defence system by intercepting a medium-range ballistic missile target in space for the first time. The missile was launched from a ship off the west coast of Hawaii, US.

Jiro Taniguchi, legend in Japan's comic art of manga, dies at 69.

Jiro Taniguchi, a legend in Japan's comic art of manga, died at the age of 69.

India beat Pakistan by 9 wickets to win T20 Blind World Cup 2017.

India beat Pakistan by 9-wickets to win T20 Blind World Cup at Bengaluru's M Chinnaswamy Stadium. Man-of-the-match was Prakash Jayaramaiah. Man-of-the-series Badar Munir was the top-scorer for Pakistan.

Neelu Rohmetra is the first woman to be appointed director of an IIM at Sirmaur.

The government recently appointed heads of 10 Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs), including the first woman to head one of the 20 premier B-schools in the country. Prof Neelu Rohmetra of Jammu University is the first woman to be appointed director of an IIM at Sirmaur. She specialises in HRD and cross-culture management.

World Radio Day observed with theme Radio is You.

World Radio Day was celebrated across the world on 13 February 2017. The day is observed every year to celebrate radio as the medium of entertainment, the mode of communication and information. Themed ‘Radio is You’, this year the day calls for a greater participation of both the audiences and communities in the policy and planning of radio broadcasting.

BAFTA 2017: La La Land takes 5 trophies, Dev Patel wins for Lion.

Director Damien Chazelle's musical "La La Land" continued its award dominance by taking five trophies, including at the 70th British Academy Film Awards, BAFTA. At the ceremony on Sunday night, British-Indian star Dev Patel got recognition for his role in "Lion", getting award for best supporting actor.

RBI keeps repo rate unchanged at 6.25 per cent.



The Reserve Bank of India today maintained status quo on its key rates in its monetary policy review, today and the repo rate, or the rate at which the RBI lends to banks, stands unchanged at 6(point)25 per cent, and the reverse repo rate, or the rate at which the RBI absorbs excess liquidity, also remains steady at 5(point)75 per cent.

ITTF World Tour event to begin from tomorrow (14 Feb).

The first ever ITTF World Tour event in India will begin at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex in New Delhi tomorrow. The 120,000 US dollar India Open also happens to be the biggest ever ITTF event in terms of prize money.

Centre to launch portal to provide platform to emerging sports persons.

Union Minister of State for Sports Vijay Goyal has said, Centre will launch a portal soon which will provide the platform to the emerging sports persons in the country.

12 February: National Productivity Day

The National Productivity Day 2017 was observed in India on 12 February 2017. Besides, the country also observed National Productivity week from 12 February to 18 February 2017 with the theme 'From Waste to Profits-through Reduce, Recycle and Reuse'.

Iconic jewellery brand Faberge debuts in India.

Faberge, an iconic global jewellery brand, has debuted in India where it is showcasing latest creations and collections as the company seeks to tap a market expanding on the back of growth in economy and wealth.

Aero India 2017 begins in Bengaluru.

11th biennial edition of the International Aerospace and Defence exhibition - Aero India began at the Air Force Station, Yelahanka in Bengaluru on 14th February 2017.

SC sentences Sasikala to 4 years in jail in DA case.

The Supreme Court today convicted AIADMK ad-hoc General Secretary VK Sasikala in a 19-year old disproportionate assets case that also involved late former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa. In the court's verdict in the case, Ms Sasikala and her two relatives were found guilty under Prevention of Corruption Act.

Maiden ITTF World Tour event in India to kick off in New Delhi.

The first ever ITTF World Tour event in India began today (14 February 2017) at the Thyagaraj Sports Complex in New Delhi. The 1.5 lakh US dollar India Open also happens to be the biggest ever ITTF event in terms of prize money.



Pune to host India's maiden sports lit fest.

Pune will be the host of the first-ever sports-themed literary festival to be held in India. The event, to be held on February 21 and 22, will see many big names in the world of cricket, including India captain Virat Kohli, Sunil Gavaskar, Virender Sehwag, VVS Laxman and Australian leg-spinning great Shane Warne, as well as gymnastics sensation Dipa Karmakar.

China Plans to build floating Nuclear Plants in South China Sea.

China has said it will develop floating nuclear power plants on a priority basis in the South China Sea.

Pakistan batsman Umar Akmal creates record Of maximum T20 ducks.

Pakistan middle-order batsman Umar Akmal has created a record that others will find funny. He now has the dubious distinction of scoring the maximum number of ducks in the history of Twenty 20 cricket. He achieved this milestone by getting out for a duck for Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) match against Peshawar Zalmi in Dubai on Sunday. It was Akmal's 24th duck in the shortest format of the game. Before this, Akmal was in august company with South Africa's Herschelle Gibbs, Sri Lanka's Tilakaratne Dilshan and West Indies' Dwayne Smith, all tied on 23 ducks.

Sachin Tendulkar adopts Donja village in Maharashtra for transformation.

Cricket legend and Rajya Sabha MP Sachin Tendulkar has adopted the village of Donja in Maharashtra's Osmanabad district, under the Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojna, sanctioning over Rs. 4 crore for the development of the village from his MPLAD fund. The amount will be spent on development of a new school building, a water Supply scheme that would provide potable water to each household, concrete roads and a sewage line attached to the same, a press release stated. Tendulkar had earlier adopted the vilage of Puttamraju Kandriga in Andhra Pradesh.

Indian tabla player Sandeep Das wins 2017 Grammy Award for Best Global Music.

Indian tabla player Sandeep Das on 13 February 2017 won the 59th annual Grammy Award for the Best Global Music category. He won the award for Yo-Yo Ma’s Silk Road Ensemble ‘Sing Me Home’. Yo-Yo Ma’s ‘Sing Me Home’ features tunes composed by diIerent artists at global level.

Indian racer Jehan Daruvala wins New Zealand GP.

Young Indian racer Jehan Daruvala created history by winning the New Zealand Grand Prix 2017 at the Chris Amon Circuit. With the win, Jehan became the first and only Indian to win a Grand Prix in motorsport and has joined the elite list of Grand Prix winners including Keke Rosberg, Bruce Mclaren, John Surtees and Sir Jackie Stewart.



Grammy winning singer Al Jarreau passes away.

Al Jarreau, Grammy-winning pop and jazz musician passed away on 12 February 2017. He was 76.

Tehmina Janjua appointed as Pakistan's first woman Foreign Secretary to UN.

Tehmina Janjua was on 13 February 2017 appointed as the first woman Foreign Secretary of Pakistan to the United Nations (UN). She will be the Permanent Representative to the UN. She will replace the outgoing Foreign Secretary Aizaz Ahmed Chaudhry, who will now be the Ambassador to the United States (US).

India’s first floating elementary school inaugurated on Manipur’s Loktak Lake.

India’s first floating elementary school named Loktak Elementary Floating School was on 13 February 2017 inaugurated at Langolsabi Leikai of Champu Khangpok floating village on Loktak Lake in Manipur.

BHEL launches remote-controlled weapons station for Indian Army’s Arjun tanks.

Public sector defence electronics major, Bharat Electronics Limited (BHEL) on 14 February 2017 launched remote controlled weapon station (RCWS) for the Indian Army’s Arjun tanks at Aero India.

Lightweight multi-role Kamov 226T helicopters set to be produced in India.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and Russian defence firms have finalised the Joint Venture agreement for collaboration in the production of light weight multi-role ‘Kamov 226T’ helicopters in India.

Zoom Air begins operations from today (15 February 2017).

Zoom Air, India's newest full-service airline, started its daily scheduled operations from today, February 15 on Delhi-Kolkata-Durgapur-Delhi route.

ISRO successfully launched record 104 satellites in a single mission.

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on 15 February 2017 successfully launched a record 104 satellites including Cartosat-2 in a single mission. The heavy duty rocket PSLV C37 carrying lifted off at 9:28 am from Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota.

Adam Voges retired from international Cricket.



Australian Cricketer Adam Voges on 14 February 2017 announced his retirement from international cricket. Voges, who will lead the Prime Minister’s XI against the visiting Sri Lankans in Canberra, said that this will be his last game against the international team.

Olympic Champion Bolt wins Laureus 'Sportsman of the Year' award.

Usain Bolt and Simone Biles, the 2016 Rio Olympic champions won top awards of ‘Sportsman of the Year’ and ‘Sportswoman of the Year’ at the Laureus World Sports Awards 2017, held in Monaco.

Military Exercise Cobra Gold 2017 begins in Thailand.

The Cobra Gold 2017 commenced on 14 February 2017 in Thailand. Cobra Gold is an annual multilateral military exercise co-sponsored by Thailand and the USA.

Narendra Modi govt launches ‘pre-loaded BSNL SIM Card’ to instantly connect e-visa bearing tourists in India.

The Narendra Modi government on 15th February 2017 launched an initiative that provides pre-loaded SIM cards to foreign tourists on their arrival in India on e-Visa. This initiative was launched by Dr Mahesh Sharma, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Tourism and Culture.

Airbus signs MoU for setting up Centre of Excellence in Hyderabad.

Airbus on 15th February 2017 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for establishing a Centre of Excellence for aerospace skill development in Hyderabad, together with the Government of Telangana, National Skill Development Corporation India and AEROCAMPUS France.

Croatia ink pact with India to boost economic cooperation.

India and Croatia have signed an agreement to boost bilateral trade and enhance economic cooperation. The agreement was signed by Commerce and Industry Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Martina Dalic, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of the Economy, Government of the Republic of Croatia, yesterday (14 Feb) in Zagreb.

Edappadi Palaniswami takes over as Tamil Nadu’s 29th Chief Minister.

AIADMK's Edappadi Palaniswami was sworn in as the New Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu on 16 February 2017. Tamil Nadu Governor Vidyasagar Rao took the decision to invite Palaniswami to form the government.

Tata Motors, Microsoft Ink Technology Collaboration Deal.



Tata Motors Ltd and Microsoft India on Thursday announced a strategic collaboration on the technology front to make driving a more personalised experiences for the customers, the companies.

2-day Global Investor Summit 'Momentum Jharkhand' starts today in Ranchi.

A two-day mega event of Global Investor Summit, branded as "Momentum Jharkhand" started at Khelgaon of Ranchi today. More than one thousands delegates, including many leading industrialists, both Indian and from other countries, will take part in this.

Indian Panorama Film Festival begins in Port Blair.

The Indian Panorama Film Festival commenced on 15 February 2017 in Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Festival is organised jointly by Andaman and Nicobar Administration and Directorate of Film Festivals, Government of India.

Norman Isaac became first Indian to be FIBA’s Technical Delegate.

Norman Isaac in February 2017 became the first Indian to be promoted by the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) as the Technical Delegate (TD). His appointment/promotion was confirmed by the sport’s worldwide governing body. He was promoted to TD along with a select few aspirants, who successfully cleared a series of tests at Doha, Qatar.

Justice Vikramajit Sen takes charge of Delhi and Districts Cricket Association. Justice Vikramajit Sen, former Supreme Court Judge, on 15 February 2017 took charge of the Delhi and Districts Cricket Association (DDCA). He officially took the charge from Justice Mukul Mudgal.

NPF chief Shurhozelie Liezietsu to be new Nagaland CM.

Ruling Naga People's Front (NPF) Legislature Party meeting has concluded at Kohima to elect a new leader following the resignation of Nagaland Chief Minister TR Zeliang. Party President Shurhozelie Liezitsu has been unanimously chosen leader of the legislature party.

Famine declared in parts of South Sudan.

A famine has been declared in parts of South Sudan, the first to be announced in any part of the world in six years. The government and the United Nations report that some one lakh people are facing starvation, with a million more on the brink of famine.

Shahid Afridi announces retirement from international cricket.



Pakistan all-rounder Shahid Afridi has announced his retirement from international cricket.The 36-year-old star had already quit Test and ODI cricket but still captained the Pakistan Twenty 20 team at the 2016 world championships in India.

Tsonga beats Goffin to win Rotterdam tennis title.

Frenchman Jo-Wilfried Tsonga has claimed the Rotterdam tennis title. In the ABN AMRO World Tennis Tournament final in Rotterdam, sixth seeded Tsonga defeated third seeded David Goffin of Belgium 4-6, 6-4, 6-1.

BharatQR Code Interoperable Payment Acceptance Solution Launched.

RBI's Deputy Governor R Gandhi on Monday launched BharatQR code in Mumbai, an interoperable and low cost payment acceptance solution, developed by National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), MasterCard, and Visa. With BharatQR, the consumers will not need to scan different quick response (QR) codes at the same merchant provided by the different payment networks. The merchants will only need to display one QR code at the storefront or through the acquiring bank's mobile application. The interoperable payment acceptance solution works with MasterCard, RuPay, and Visa accounts.

Virat Kohli Strikes 100-Crore Deal With Puma.

Virat Kohli added one more feather to his cap as he became the first Indian sportsperson to strike a Rs 100-crore endorsement deal with a single brand. Kohli struck a deal that will last for eight years with lifestyle brand Puma worth about Rs 110 crore.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Palaniswami Announces Closure Of 500 Liquor Shops.

Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami today announced the closure of 500 state-run liquor retail outlets. The announcement was part of late AIADMK supremo J Jayalalithaa's promise to usher in prohibition in the state in a phased manner.

Microsoft-Flikpkart announce strategic tie-up.

IT giant Microsoft today announced a "strategic partnership" with Flipkart, wherein as a first step, the online retailer will adopt Microsoft Azure as its exclusive public cloud platform. The strategic partnership was aimed at providing consumers in the country the best online shopping service. Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella and Flipkart Group CEO Binny Bansal announced the partnership.

Indian Coast Guard Ship ICGS AYUSH commissioned in Kochi.



Indian Coast Guard Ship ICGS AYUSH was commissioned on 18 February 2017 in Kochi, Kerala. The ship was commissioned by Vice Admiral AR Karwe, Flag Ocer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Naval Command.

India & Rwanda sign MoUs in innovation, aviation and visa requirements.

India and Rwanda have inked agreements in the fields of innovation, aviation and visa requirements. The agreements were signed in Kigali yesterday in the presence of Vice President Mohammed Hamid Ansari and Rwandan Prime Minister Anastase Murekezi during a business forum meet. Mr Ansari, who is in Rwanda on the first leg of his 2-nation visit to East Africa, also launched a India-Rwanda innovation growth programme.

India beat South Africa in final of ICC Women's World Cup Qualifier 2017.

India beat South Africa by one wicket in the final of ICC Women World Cup Qualifier 2017 at Colombo this evening. India achieved the target of 245 runs on the last ball of the 50th over.

Health Secretary launched ‘SAATHIYA’ Resource Kit and ‘SAATHIYA SALAH’ Mobile App for Adolescents.

The Union Health Ministry on 20 February 2017 launched the SAATHIYA Resource Kit and mobile app named ‘Saathiya Salah’ for adolescents. The kit and the app were launched as part of the Rashtriya Kishor Swasthya Karyakram (RKSK) program.

US President names Lt Gen HR McMaster as new National Security Advisor.

The President of United States, Donald Trump appointed Lieutenant General Herbert Raymond McMaster as his new National Security Advisor on 20 February 2017.

Gujarat Assembly passes Aadhaar Bill, 2017.

The Gujarat Assembly on 20 February 2017 passed the Gujarat Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Bill, 2017.

International Mother Language Day observed.

UNESCO celebrates International Mother Language Day (IMLD) on February 21, 2017 under the theme "Towards Sustainable Futures through Multilingual Education".

EDII wins International Mercury Award 2016-17.

The Ahmedabad-based Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII), an acknowledged national resource institute for entrepreneurship education, research,



training and institution-building, has received the prestigious International Mercury Awards (IMA) for the year 2016-17.

Tata Steel's Katamati Mine wins Best Green Award.

Tata Steel's Katamati iron mine has been honoured with the the Best Green Organisation of the Year Award at the Global Green Future Leadership Awards in recognition of its environmental protection measures.

Noted bureaucrat V. K. Srinivasan passes away.

V. K. Srinivasan, noted bureaucrat, columnist and director of the Institute of Economic Studies passed away. He was 76.

Cyber Swachhta Kendra launched by CERT-In to prevent Cyber-Attacks.

Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-in) on 21st February launched Cyber Swachhta Kendra - a new desktop and mobile security solution for a secure cyber space in the country.

Shurhozelie Liezitsu sworn-in as Nagaland Chief Minister.

Shurhozelie Liezitsu has been sworn-in as the 17th Chief Minister of Nagaland. The 81-year old Naga People's Front party President was administered the oath of office and secrecy by Governor PB Acharya in Kohima.

Cabinet approves capacity hike for solar parks & projects for long term energy security of country.

The Union Cabinet today decided to enhance solar power capacity from 20,000 Mega Watt to 40,000 Mega Watt for development of solar parks and ultra mega solar power projects.

FreeCharge CEO Govind Rajan quits.

Govind Rajan, the CEO of Snapdeal-owned FreeCharge, has put in his papers after less than 2 years of joining the digital payments firm. Snapdeal had acquired FreeCharge in April 2015.

Microsoft launches 'Made For India' Skype Lite App.

Microsoft on Wednesday launched Skype Lite, an exclusive "Made for India" app to provide seamless experience in messaging, audio and video calling even at lower bandwidths.

Bharti Airtel acquires strategic stake in FinTech startup Seynse.



Sunil Mittal’s Bharti Airtel on Wednesday acquired a strategic equity stake in Seynse Technologies, a Financial Technology (FinTech) company.

For the first time in the world, Microsoft to deploy Azure Stack in Andhra Pradesh.

Government of Andhra has entered into an agreement with technology giant Microsoft to utilise Microsoft Azure Stack for AP government state data centre. The chief minister Chandrababu Naidu and Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella singed an MoU during an event called ‘Microsoft Future Decoded’ in Mumbai today.

Mobile App launched by company for farmers to hire farm machinery.

Agriculture services company, EM3 AgriServices launches a mobile app through which farmers in Madhya Pradesh can place orders for renting farm equipment and services.

Justice Abhay Manohar Sapre appointed chairman of Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal.

Justice Abhay Manohar Sapre, a sitting judge of the Supreme Court of India, was appointed as the chairman of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal on 21 February 2017. He was nominated for the post by the Chief Justice JS Khehar.

EPFO introduces single page composite claim form for withdrawing money.

Employees' Provident Fund Organization (EPFO), the retirement body of India, on 21 February 2017 introduced single page composite claim form. The form will allow its subscribers to withdraw money from their PF account at an ease.

Abhijit Sarkar appointed Vice Chairman of Asian Hockey Federation.

The Asian Hockey Federation (AHF) on 21 February 2017 confirmed the appointment of Abhijit Sarkar as its new Vice Chairman. Sarkar was also appointed the Chairman of the AHF Commercial and TV Committee.

Panaji bans selling of paan.

The Mayor of Goa’s capital banned all paan-selling kiosks, and set up a special municipal task force to physically identify and evict paan-sellers.

Suresh Prabhu unveils Antyodaya Express for common man.

Equipped with cushioned seats, aluminium composite panels, and LED lights, the Antyodaya Express, a new fully unreserved train for the common man with specially designed colourful coaches was unveiled today by Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu.



CBEC launches mobile app for GST.

Central Board of Excise and Customs today launched a mobile application for Goods and Services Tax (GST) to inform the taxpayers of the latest updates on GST.

Govt decides to issue Sovereign Gold Bonds 2016-17-Series IV.

Government has decided to issue Sovereign Gold Bonds 2016-17-Series IV. Finance Ministry said that applications for the bonds will be accepted from 27th of this month to the 3rd of March.

Turkey lifts ban on female army officers wearing Islamic headscarf.

In Turkey, government has lifted a historic ban on female army officers wearing the Islamic headscarf.

1st Gramin Khel Mahotsav to be held next month in Delhi: Vijay Goel.

Sports Minister Vijay Goel today announced that 1st Gramin Khel Mahotsav will be held from 25th to 31st of next month in New Delhi. Tthe games will be held in five sports disciplines Athletics, Kabaddi, Kho-Kho, Volley Ball and Wrestling.

ISSF World Cup tournament begins in Delhi.

International Shooting Sport Federation World Cup tournament begins at the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range in New Delhi today.

Fitbit acquired Pebble.

In December last year, Pebble finally announced its acquisition by Fitbit. Fitbit acquired Pebble for just $23 million.

Sahitya Akademi awards 2016 presented to 24 authors.

Sahitya Akademi Awards 2016 were conferred on twenty-four writers on 22 February 2017. The eminent authors were conferred with the award/honour for writing in as diIerent Indian languages.

Awardees in diIerent genres were

Poetry • Jnan Pujari: Was awarded for book Meghmalar Bhraman written in Assamese. • Anju (Anjali Narzary): Was awarded for book Ang Maboroi Dong Dasong written in Bodo. • Kamal Vora: Was awarded for book Anekek written in Gujarati. • Prabha Varma: Was awarded for book Shyamamadhavan written in Malayalam.



• Sitanath Acharya: Was awarded for book Kavyanirjhari written in Sanskrit. • Gobinda Chandra Majhi: Was awarded for book Nalha written in Santali. • Nand Javeri: Was awarded for book Akhar Katha written in Sindhi.

Short Story • Chhatrapal: Was awarded for book Cheta written in Dogri. • Shyam Darihare: Was awarded for book Barki Kaki at Hotmail Dot Com written in Maithili. • Moirangthem Rajen: Was awarded for book Cheptharaba Eshingpun written in Manipuri. • Asaram Lomate: Was awarded for book Aalok written in Marathi. • Paramita Satpathy: Was awarded for book Prapti written in Odia. • Bulaki Sharma: Was awarded for book Murdjat Ar Dujee Kahaniyan written in Rajasthani. • Vannadhasan: Was awarded for book Oru Siru Isai written in Tamil.

Novel • Gita Upadhyay: Was awarded for book Janmabhumi Mero Swadesh written in Nepali. • Jerry Pinto: Was awarded for book Em and the big Hoom written in English. • Nasira Sharma: Was awarded for book Paarijat written in Hindi. • Boluwaru Mohammad Kunhi: Was awarded for book Swatantryada Ota written in Kannada. • Edwin J.F. D’souza: Was awarded for book Kale Bhangar written in Konkani.

Criticism • Aziz Hajini: Was awarded for book Aane Khane written in Kashmiri. • Nizam Siddiqui: Was awarded for book Mabad-e-Jadidiat Se Naye Ahed Ki Takhliqiyat Tak written in Urdu.

Essay • Nrisinghaprasad Badhuri: Was awarded for book Mahabharater Astadahi written in Bengali.

Play • Swarajbir: Was awarded for the play titled Masia Di Raat written in Punjabi.

Uttar Pradesh bags Technology Sabha e-Governance Award on e-Governance.

The Government of Uttar Pradesh has won the Technology Sabha e-Governance Award for VarnijYakar Automation System (VYAS) under the ‘outstanding integrated e-governance project’ category. The VarnijYakar Automation System (VYAS) enables an effective and efficient system of collection of taxes for the state and hassle free process for commercial tax payers.

PM Narendra Modi to unveil first 112-foot tall Shiva statue in Coimbatore tomorrow.



Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be unveiling 112-foot tall statue dedicated to 'Adiyogi' (a form of Lord Shiva who according to the Hindu tradition is considered the first of yogis) in Coimbatore on the occasion of Maha Shivratri. The statue has been funded by Isha Foundation.

Ajay Singh appointed leader of opposition in Madhya Pradesh Assembly.

Ajay Singh, a close confidant of senior Congress leader Digvijay Singh, was on Thursday appointed as Leader of Opposition in the Madhya Pradesh Assembly for the second time.

Vani Kapoor wins maiden title of new season.

Young golfer Vani Kapoor claimed her first title of the season with a margin of four strokes at the 4th leg of the Hero Women’s Professional Golf Tour at the Tollygunge Club.

PM Modi unveils 112 ft bust of 'Adiyogi'.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi today unveiled the 112-foot bust of 'Adiyogi' or Lord Shiva built by an NGO Isha Foundation in Coimbatore.

China names new officials to key economic posts.

Chinese Government has replaced Commerce Minister and the head of its top economic planning body as part of a Cabinet reshuffle ahead of the national legislature's annual session. Top trade representative Zhong Shan will now be the Minister of Commerce, while He Lifeng will take over the powerful National Development and Reform Commission. Zhang Jun, a high-level official in the ruling Communist Party's anti-corruption agency, was also appointed Justice Minister.

India win bronze in ISSF World Cup.

Hosts India have opened their account with a Bronze medal in the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) World Cup.

Central Excise Day celebrated.

The Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) on 24 February 2017 celebrated the Central Excise Day across the country.

John-John Dohmen, Naomi Van named best hockey players of 2016.

Belgium's John-John Dohmen and Netherlands' Naomi Van were named as male and female Hockey Federation's Player of the Year award. The Olympic silver medallists Dohmen and Naomi were handed these awards. Great Britain's Olympic gold medallist



Maddie Hinch won the Hockey Stars 2016 female Goalkeeper of the Year award. While, Ireland's David Harte was crowned the best in the world for the second year in a row as he received the male Goalkeeper of the Year award. Belgium's Arthur Van Doren was named male Rising Star of the Year. Maria Granatto from Argentina picked up the female Rising Star of the Year.

Centre permits Tamil Nadu to increase number of workdays under MGNREGA.

The Centre has accorded permission for increasing the number of workdays under the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Employment Guarantee scheme in Tamil Nadu from the existing 100 days to 150 days.

India, Bangladesh ink MoU for development of Sylhet city .

India and Bangladesh signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the sustainable development of Sylhet city with financial aid from India. Indian High Commissioner Harsh Vardhan Shringla and Sylhet City Corporation CEO Enamul Habib signed the tripartite agreement in Sylhet, a metropolitan city in northeastern Bangladesh. Under the MoU, three projects are considered i.e construction of a five-storeyed Kindergarten & High School Building, a six-storeyed Cleaner Colony Building and Development of Dhupa Dighipar area -will be implemented with Taka 24.28 crore.

Rajasthan 2nd largest crude oil producer in country.

Rajasthan has become the second largest crude oil producer in the country after the offshore field Bombay High.

AYUSH Minister to inaugurate the World Integrated Medicine Forum on Regulation of Homeopathic Medicine.

The Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH, Shripad Yesso Naik inaugurated the World Integrated Medicine Forum on Regulation of Homeopathic Medicinal Products- National and Global strategies in New Delhi.

Dena Bank rolls out RFID-enabled cards to serve valued clients better.

Dena Bank has introduced Radio Frequency Identification Card (RFID) enabled banking cards whereby a branch manager can identify a valued client entering a branch with the card. Once the client enters the branch, complete information about customers will pop up on the manager’s desktop.

Gorb, Ola form tie up.

Food technology company Gorb has partnered with cab aggregator Ola to offer food to consumers at discounted rates in Mumbai.



Government ropes in Shilpa Shetty as Swachh Bharat brand ambassador.

The government has roped in actress Shilpa Shetty as a brand ambassador for the Indian government's cleanliness initiative Swachh Bharat Mission.

Former CM T R Zeliang appointed Finance Advisor to Nagaland government.

Former Nagaland Chief Minister T R Zeliang was appointed as Finance Advisor to the state government in the rank of a cabinet minister.

Motherson Sumi’s Vivek Sehgal bags EY’s ‘Entrepreneur of the Year’ award.

Vivek Chaand Sehgal of Motherson Sumi Systems Ltd (MSSL) has been awarded the Entrepreneur of the Year 2016 award by assurance, tax, transaction and advisory services firm Ernest Young (EY). Sehgal will now represent India at the EY World Entrepreneur of the Year Award in Monte Carlo from June 7 to 11, 2017. Infosys Co-founder Nandan Nilekani was honoured with the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contribution to the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) — the Aadhaar initiative.

India lose by 333 runs.

India have lost the first Test in Pune by 333 runs. Steve O’Keefe (6/35) and Nathan Lyon (4/53) destroyed India in the second innings after Steve Smith’s 18th Test century set India a winning target of 441.

Commerce Secretary Rita Teaotia inaugurates APEDA pavilion in Dubai.

Ms. Rita Teaotia, Commerce Secretary, today inaugurated the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) pavilion at the Gulfood Exhibition in Dubai.

US Democrats elect Tom Perez as new national chairman.

US Democrats have elected former Labour Secretary Tom Perez as their new national chairman. Mr Perez, who served in the Obama administration, won the second round of voting at the Democratic National Committee meeting in Atlanta after a tightly-fought contest.

Australia and Indonesia restore full military ties.

Australia and Indonesia have restored full military ties, after Indonesian military suspended cooperation in January because of insulting teaching material found at an Australian base.



Himachal Pradesh: Famous International Shivratri festival begins in Mandi.

In Himachal Pradesh, the famous Mandi International Shivratri festival began yesterday.

India wins all 3 medals at Asian Para-Road Cycling Championship.

India has made a rousing start at the sixth Asian Para-Road Cycling Championship in Bahrain. On the opening day of the tournament at Bahrain today, India bagged all three medals in the 12.8 Kilometre Individual Time Trial. Abhishek from Chandigarh won the gold medal, Divij Shah from West Bengal won silver and Harinder Singh from BSF accounted for the bronze medal.

'Mumbai richest Indian city with total wealth of $820 bn'.

India's financial capital Mumbai, which is home to 46,000 millionaires and 28 billionaires, is the richest Indian city with a total wealth of $ 820 billion. According to New World Wealth, Mumbai is the richest city in the country followed by Delhi and Bengaluru in the second and third place, respectively.

Rashtrapati Bhavan to be documented soon in a digital avatar.

The architectural history and the heritage of Rashtrapati Bhavan, the 340-room official residence of the President of India, has been documented in a series of books which will soon be available in an online series.

current affairs magazine (february 2017) · virat kohli maintained his top spot in the latest icc...

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