27 July 2013

Updated Current Affairs June 2013


INTERNATIONAL
Egypt’s Top Court Rules Parliament Invalid
On 2 June Egypt’s Supreme Constitutional Court invalidated the nation’s upper house of parliament and a panel that drew up the constitution.The upper house, or Shura Council, holds legislative powers. It will be dissolved after a new lower house is elected.The court dissolved the lower house of parliament 2012 June.The constitution was drafted by an Islamist-dominated assembly in 2012 November and approved by voters in December.
Nigeria’s Parliament Passed a Bill Criminalising Gay Marriage
On 2 June Nigeria’s parliament has passed a bill criminalising gay marriage, making it punishable with a 14-year prison term.The country’s lower house, House of Representatives, followed the action of the Senate and endorsed the bill.
UN Finds Evidence Of  Toxic Chemicals and a Worsening War in Syria
On 3 June  A United Nation’s (UN) human rights investigation report ,finds some kind of chemical has probably been used on Syria’s battlefield.Paulo Pinheiro, chairperson of the UN commission of inquiry submitted their latest report at the UN in Geneva .
Obesity and Poor Nutrition Report Released by UN FAO
On 4 June According to the UN’s Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) report ,obesity and poor nutrition weigh heavily on the global economy and told governments that investing in food health would bring big economic as well as social returns.Lost productivity and spiralling health care bills linked to malnutrition “could account for as much as five per cent of global gross domestic product (GDP),” equivalent to US$3.5 trillion (S$4.4 trillion) a year.In its yearly report, the Rome-based agency said 12.5 percent of the world’s population (some 868 million people) are undernourished in terms of energy intake, while 26 percent of children worldwide are stunted by malnutrition.Some two billion people suffer from micronutrient deficiencies and 1.4 billion people are overweight – of which 500 million are obese.
US Slapped Economic Sanction on Iran
On 4 June The US has slapped new sanctions on Iran ,targetting the country’s already-devalued currency and automobile industry.This is the ninth set of sanctions that the Obama administration has imposed against Iran.The executive order also empower the imposition of new sanctions against those who intentionally engage in major financial or other transactions for the sale, supply, or transfer to Iran of significant goods or services used in connection with Iran’s automotive sector. Similar sanctions were earlier imposed on Iran’s shipping, shipbuilding, and energy sectors.It is for the first time that the US has directly targeted the Iranian currency.
U.S. and China Hold Bilateral Talks
On 7 June The U.S. President Barack Obama and China President Xi Jinping concluded their latest round of high-level trade talks.In the meeting both countries agreed to inject new vitality to bilateral trade and economic relations.The US and China will work together and with other countries to use the expertise and institutions of the Montreal Protocol to phase down the consumption and production of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), among other forms of multilateral cooperation.Both nations agreed to work together on the crucial cyber security issues that have spiraled tensions between the two nations.
Bangladesh Amends Anti-Terror Law
On 12 June Bangladesh’s parliament amended the tough anti-terrorism law re-defining terrorism and allowing courts to accept internet.The (anti-terror) bill suggests provisions to effectively control terrorism through inter-state cooperation.It offers the central bank the authority to freeze suspicious accounts without court orders.The law was first enacted in 2009 after the December 2008 elections while it was amended last year incorporating some provisions.The law was first enacted in 2009 when the incumbent Awami League assumed office after the December 2008 elections while it was amended last year incorporating some provisions.
EU Launched New Nuclear Safety Rules
On 12 June The European Commission released a new set of nuclear power safety rules aimed at eliminating the risk of a Fukushima-type disaster in the region.The directive will require countries to submit to an international review of their nuclear power systems every six years, and fix any shortcomings discovered.There are 132 nuclear reactors in operation in Europe.
Hasan Rowhani Elected As Iran’s New President
On 15 June moderate cleric Hasan Rowhani elected as Iran’s new President.Rowhani has won the country’s presidential election.Rowhani won with 50.7 percent of the more than 36 million votes cast.Other contenders such as Tehran Mayor Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf got 16.5 percent and Hard-line nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili came in third with 11.3 percent of votes. Another conservative Mohsen Rezaei got 10.6 percent votes.
Kuwait’s Constitutional Court Dissolved Parliament
On 16 June The Kuwait Constitutional Court has dissolved the Kuwaiti parliament and ordered new elections.The Constitutional Court had decided not to make a ruling on the constitutionality of the Emir Sheik Al-Sabah’s change to the electoral laws after they had examined and rejected the challenge.
Afghanistan Rejects Talks With Taliban And U.S
On 19 June Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai rejected peace talks with the Taliban in a new office in Qatar .Karzai also suspended talks on a new U.S.-Afghan security deal that would allow some American troops to remain in the country after the international combat mission ends in 2014 to protest the fact that his government was being left out of the initial process.
China – Russia “Cooperation 2013 Held in Beijing
Chinese Armed Police Force and the Russian internal security force’s “Cooperation -2013 Joint training was held from 11th to 20th June in Beijing at Armed Special Police Academy.46 personnel from the Snow Leopard Commandoes, an elite anti-terrorism force under the Chinese People’s Armed Police Force (PAPF), and 29 from a special task force unit of Russia’s domestic security force.Before this joint training held in Beijing, the two sides previously conducted a joint anti-terrorism drill, “Cooperation 2007,” in Moscow .
Russia and China Signed $270bn Oil Deal
On 21 June Russia’s oil giant Rosneft and Chinese state firm CNPC signed a agreement to supply China with $270bn worth of oil over the next 25 years.The agreement was signed by Rosneft chief executive Igor Sechin and CNPC head Zhou Jiping in the presence of Putin and visiting Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli.
UK and China Signed Currency Swap Agreement
On 23 June UK and China have signed a three-year agreement worth 200bn to establish a renminbi currency swap to promote trade between the two countries.The agreement was signed by The Bank of England and the People’s Bank of China.Currency-swap agreements basically allow central banks to swap currencies which can be used by firms to settle trade in local currencies rather than in US dollars.
Kevin Rudd Re-elected As Australian PM
On 26 June Kevin Rudd re-elected as Australian Prime Minister.In these election Kevin Rudd defeated the  present Leader of the Labor Party and Prime Minister Julia Gillard.Kevin Rudd won 57 and Julia Gillard got 45 votes.Before three years Julia Gillard  became a Prime Minister of Australia in place Kevin Rudd is the first Woman Prime Minister of Australia.Now Kevin Michael Rudd is the Prime Minister of Australia, as well as Leader of the Labor Party.He was previously Prime Minister from 2007 to 2010, and Labor Leader from 2006 to 2010.
 Qatar’s Emir Transfers Power To Son
On 25 June Qatari Emir Sheikh Hamad bin Khalifa al-Thani has handed power to his son, Crown Prince Sheikh Tamim.On 26 June Qatar’s new Emir formed a government from which he excluded powerful former Prime Minister Hamad bin Jassim bin Jaber Al Thani , replaced him with the former minister of state for internal affairs.Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa al-Thani was named both the Prime Minister and Interior Minister.Sheikh Abdullah bin Nasser bin Khalifa Al Thani is a Qatari politician.In 2005,Nasser Al-Thani he became the minister of state for internal affairs.

INDIA & WORLD
China, Pakistan, India Increased Nuclear Arsenals
On 3 June According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute annual report ,China, India, and Pakistan have increased their nuclear arsenals over the past year.India and Pakistan have each added around 10 new warheads to bring their totals to between 90 and 110 and between 100 and 120 respectively. China now has 250 nuclear warheads, compared to 240 in 2012.Only the two old superpowers have cut their arsenals, with the United States reducing its warheads from 8000 to 7700, and Russia from 10,000 to 8,500.
65 Countries Signed Arms Trade Treaty
On 3 June More than 65 countries of the world signed signed the Arms Trade Treaty and the United States announced it will sign soon. key arms exporters including Russia and China and major importers including India, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia and Egypt abstained and have given no indication yet that they will sign it.The treaty will require countries that ratify it to establish national regulations to control the transfer of conventional arms and components and to regulate arms brokers, but it will not control the domestic use of weapons in any country. It prohibits the transfer of conventional weapons if they violate arms embargoes or if they promote acts of genocide, crimes against humanity or war crimes.
India – Singapore Signed Agreement On Joint Army Training
On 4 June India and Singapore have signed a fresh agreement to extend the use of training and exercise facilities in India by the Singapore Army for a further period of five years from August this year.The agreement was signed between Defence Secretary Radha Krishna Mathur and his Singaporean counterpart Chiang Chie Foo.A bilateral agreement for utilisation of facilities in India by the Singapore Air Force and Army was signed in October 2007 and August 2008 respectively.
348 Million Internet Users Expected In India By 2017
On 5 June According to the Cisco’s Visuals Networking Index (VNI) forecast (2012-17) report , India has the fastest Internet traffic growth globally and is expected to have 348 million users by 2017.In India, there will be 348 million Internet users in 2017, up from 138 million in 2012.Internet traffic in India will reach 2.5 Exabytes per month in 2017.Worldwide, by 2017, the number of Internet users will rise to 3.6 billion, which will be more than 48 per cent of the world’s estimated population of 7.6 billion.
US exempted India & Eight Other Countries for Importing Oil from Iran
On 6 June United States exempted India and eight other countries from sanctions for importing oil from Iran, noting that these countries have significantly reduced their dependence on Iranian oil in the last six months.US Secretary of State John Kerry announced ,India, China, Malaysia, Republic of Korea, Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Turkey, and Taiwan have qualified for an exception to sanctions under America’s Iran Sanctions Act.
India & Germany Signed Development Cooperation Agreement
On 6 June India and Germany have signed an umbrella agreement on financial and technical cooperation in the field of energy, environment and management of natural resources.The agreement was signed by German Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission Cord Meier-Klodt and India’s Joint Secretary in the Department of Economic Affairs Rajesh Khullar.
India Ranked 141 in Global Peace Index 2013
On 11 June According to the ” Global Peace Index (GPI) 2013 released by Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) , India ranks 141st out of 162 in this year’s Global Peace Index (GPI).Iceland (First Rank) ,Denamark (2nd rank) , Austria (3rd rank) ,Switzerland (5th rank).Other important countries ranks in Global Peace Index (GPI) :- Japan (6th rank) ,US (100th rank) ,China (101 rank) ,Bangladesh (105 rank) , Srilanka (110 rank) ,Iran (137th rank) ,Russia (155th rank) ,Pakistan (157th rank) , Iraq (159th rank) and Afganistan (162 rank) ranks at bottom.The Global Peace Index (GPI) is an attempt to measure the relative position of nations and regions peacefulness.
World Population Projected To Reach 9.6 Billion By 2050
On 14 According to the United Nations (UN) “World Population Prospects: the 2012 Revision” report ,The current world population of 7.2 billion is projected to increase by 1 billion over the next 12 years and reach 9.6 billion by 2050.India is expected to become the world’s largest country, passing China around 2028, when both countries will have populations of 1.45 billion. After that, India’s population will continue to grow and China’s is expected to start decreasing.
India, UK Signed MoU On Cooperation In Healthcare Sector
On 14 June India and the United Kingdom have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for strategic and technical cooperation on health care policy and practice.The MoU was signed by Department of Health Research (DHR) Secretary V M Katoch and UK-based National Institute for Health and Care (NICE) Excellence chief executive Andrew Dillon in London.
33% Of  Women Suffer Domestic Violence
On 20 June According to the World Health Organization (WHO) survey ,In the first major global review of violence against women, a series of reports released found that about a third of women have been physically or sexually assaulted by a former or current partner.The rate of domestic violence against women was highest in Africa, the Middle East and Southeast Asia, where 37 percent of women experienced physical or sexual violence from a partner at some point in their lifetimes. The rate was 30 percent in Latin America and 23 percent in North America. In Europe and Asia, it was 25 percent.More than 38 percent of slain women are killed by a former or current partner, six times higher than the rate of men killed by their partners.
US Senate Passed Landmark Immigration Bill
On 27 June The U.S. Senate has passe the landmark comprehensive Immigration Reform Bill ,which provides a pathway to citizenship to more than 11 million undocumented people, including over 240,000 Indians.The immigration reform received a bipartisan support in the US Senate; the bill received 88 votes in favour and 32 votes in against.For further approval, the Bill has been sent to House of Representatives and after being approved in the house it will be sent to US President, Barack Obama to be signed into a law.
China – India Hold Border Talks
On 28 June China and India held their 16th round of border talks in Beijing.State Councilor and Special Representative Yang Jiechi and Indian National Security Adviser and Special Representative Shiv Shankar Menon attended the boundary talks, exchanging ideas for solving border problems and developing bilateral relations.The China-India special representative mechanism was established in 2003 and serves as an important platform for solving border disputes between both sides.

NATIONAL
Union Cabinet Approved Real Estate Regulatory Bill
On 04 June The Union Cabinet approved the (Regulation and Development) Bill 2013.The bill seeks to make it mandatory for developers to launch projects only after acquiring all the statutory clearances from the relevant authorities.The Bill has provisions under which all relevant clearances for real estate projects would have to be submitted to the regulator and also displayed on a website before starting the construction.The proposed legislation has tough provisions to deter builders from putting out misleading advertisements related to the projects carrying photographs of the actual site.
Union Cabinet Approved Extension Of  The RSBY Scheme
On 4 June Union Cabinet has approved the extension of the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY), to rikshaw pullers, rag pickers, mine workers, sanitation workers and auto rickshaw drivers and taxi drivers.The scheme became operational from 1 April 2008.
“Roshni” Scheme Launched In Naxal Affected Districts
On 7 June Union Government of India launched a placement linked skill development scheme ‘Roshni’  targeting 50,000 rural men and women, mostly tribals, in 24 worst affected districts.Under the scheme, national-level agencies will be designated to act as monitoring and coordinating agencies in the Naxal-hit districts.The three-year initiative aims at skilling and placement of 50,000 youth from 24 Naxalite-affected districts in nine states.The funding for the ‘Roshni’ scheme would be in the ratio of 75:25 to be shared between the Centre and the states.
National Skill Development Agency Constituted
On 7 June The Government has constituted the National Skill Development Agency (NSDA) by subsuming the Prime Minister’s National Council on Skill Development (PMNCSD), the National Skill Development Coordination Board (NSDCB) and the Office of the Adviser to the Prime Minister on Skill Development.The NSDA will endeavour to bridge the social, regional, gender and economic divide by ensuring that the skilling needs of the disadvantaged and marginalised groups like SCs, STs, OBCs, minorities.The NSDA will be an autonomous body chaired by a person of the rank and status of a Cabinet Minister supported by a Director General and other staff. The office of the NSDA is located in the Ministry of Finance.
India’s First Dedicated Air Ambulance Launched
On 8 June India’s first state-of-the art Air Ambulance, Flying Doctors India, was launched in NewDelhi.The new aircraft is tailor-made and equipped with a state-of-the-art Intensive Care Unit on a dedicated chartered aircraft. The goal is to provide critical care even when a patient is in transit.
50 Lakh Child Labours In India
On 12 June According to the National Sample Survey Organisation (NSSO) report , nearly 50 lakh children are eking out their livelihood in the country, of whom 17.5 lakh are in Uttarakhand.The second-largest share of child labourers comes from West Bengal (5.5 lakh), Rajasthan (4.05 lakh) and Gujarat (3.9 lakh).The NSSO estimated this figures on the eve of the World Day against Child Labour.
Central Cabinet Reshuffled
On 17 June Eight new ministers were inducted into Union council of ministers headed by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.4 Cabinet ministers and 4 Ministers of State were administered the oath of office and secrecy by President Pranab Mukherjee in the Durbar Hall of Rashtrapati Bhavan.Mallikarjun Kharge was given the charge of Railways Ministry.With the new induction, the strength of the Union Council of Ministers has gone up to 77.
List of  Four newly appointed Cabinet Ministers and their Departments:-
* Sis Ram Ola        -    Labour and Employment Ministry
* Oscar Fernandes    -    Road Transport and Highways Ministry
* Girija Vyas        -    Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation
* Kavuru Sambasiva Rao       -    Textiles Ministry
List of  Four newly appointed State Ministers and their departments:-
* Manikrao Gavit    -     Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment
* Santosh Chowdhury    -    Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare
* Jesudasu Seelam     -    Minister of State for Finance and
* E.M.S. Natchiappan     -   Minister of State for Commerce and Industry
40 Percent Indian Women Use Internet
On 20 June According to the Google study report ,About 40 percent of the 150 million internet users in the country are women and close to 24 million of them log in everyday to check emails, interact on social networking sites and shop online.Around 60 million women in India are now online and use the Internet to manage their day-to-day life.75 percent are in the 15-34 age group with over 24 million women accessing the Internet daily.
Union Government Launched New Scheme For Pregnant Women
On 22 June The Union Minister for Health Ghulam Nabi Azad launched a new scheme for the pregnant women across the country that would cover all expenses of women from birth of a baby to treatment of the sick child. Free medicines will be provided to new-born babies up to the age of one month while expecting mothers, who deliver baby at government hospital, will receive assistance as provided under the scheme.
Union Govt Banned Anti-Diabetes Drug Pioglitazone and Painkiller Analgin
On 26 June The Union government has banned three major medicines – the widely prescribed anti-diabetes drug pioglitazone, painkiller analgin and anti-depressant deanxit.The decision to ban the drug was taken in wake of health risks associated with them.
Union Cabinet Approved For Setting Up Of Coal Regulatory Authority
On 28 June the Union Cabinet has approved the setting up of a Coal Regulatory Authority meant to address controversial issues like supply and quality.The coal authority would be empowered to specify methodology for determining coal prices.Union Cabinet also approved Mumbai metro line 3.The estimated cost for the metro project has been pegged at Rs 23,136 crore.

STATES
First All Women Police Station Opens In Arunachal Pradesh
On 4 June the first all-women police station in Arunachal Pradesh has started functioning in Itanagar to specifically deal with crimes against women.To tackle crime against women, the state cabinet has also approved the creation of separate cells in all the seventeen district headquarters and the Police headquarters of the state.
Haryana Govt. Launched “Priyadarshni Awaas Yojna”
On 8 June Haryana Chief Minister Bhupender Singh Hooda launched “Priyadarshni Awaas Yojna”  in the state at Karnal to provide affordable housing facility to the people living in rural areas.People eligible under Indira Awaas Yojna and those who get 100 square yard plot under Mahatma Gandhi Gramin Basti Yojna would also be included in the scheme.
West Bengal Tops Chart For Crime Against Women
On 14 June According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) statistics ,West Bengal is the most unsafe place for women in India.West Bengal tops the list with 30,942 such cases, followed by Andhra Pradesh with 28,171 cases, UP 23,569, Rajasthan 21,106, Madhya Pradesh 16,832 and Maharashtra 16,353.
PM announced Rs 1000 crore Relief Fund For Uttarakhand
On 19 June Prime Minister Manmohan Singh announced Rs 1,000 crore for disaster relief in Uttarakhand .Prime Minister also announced an ex-gratia assistance of Rs 2 lakh each to the families of those killed in the devastating floods and Rs 50,000 each to those injured from the Prime Minister’s National Relief Fund (PMNRF). He also announced ex-gratia assistance of Rs 100,000 each to those whose houses have been completely destroyed and Rs 50,000 each to those whose houses have been damaged from the PMNRF.
Maharashtra Govt To Set Up Education Commissionerates For Tribals
In Month of June 2013 Maharashtra government has decided setting up separate education commisionerates in order to provide education to students of the tribal community.The Commissionerates for tribals will be named by ” Adivasi Shikshan Ayuktalay ” and will first come up in four divisons of the state and the head office will be in Nashik.
President Inaugurated Gas-based Power Plant in Tripura
On 21 June The President Mr. Pranab Mukherjee has inaugurated first Gas based Power Plant at Palatana in Tripura.The Palatana Gas Based Power Project is the first such Power Company in India to be awarded with the Clean Development Mechanism by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change .The Rs 9000 crore project set up by ONGC.
 Nitish Kumar Won Confidence Vote In Bihar Assembly
On 19 June Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar won the confidence vote in the state assembly, with the support of 126 MLAs ,after parting away with BJP. The trust motion was opposed by 24 MLAs.Four members of congress and one of CPI voted in favour of the trust motion. Four independent MLAs also supported the motion. In the 243 member assembly, the ruling party JD(U) has 118 MLAs and it needed just four MLAs to prove its majority.
PM Lays Foundation Stone For GVK’s Ratle Hydel Plant In J&K
On 25 June Prime Minister Manmohan Singh laid foundation stone for GVK Power’s 850 mw Ratle hydro-electric power plant on the River Chenab in Jammu and Kashmir.The 850 MW Ratle project, which is the nation’s first hydroelectric project that was bid out through tariff based international competitive bidding, will cost Rs 5,500 crore.The project was awarded to GVK Power which offered the lowest tariff for generating power.
Prime Minister Inaugurated Banihal-Qazigund Rail Link In J&K
On 26 June Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh and UPA Chairperson Sonia Gandhi inaugurated the newly constructed railway line between Banihal (Jammu region)-Qazigund (Kashmir valley) section.The Banihal- Qazigund rail link is the 18 km long rail link, which also includes the 11km long tunnel across Pir Panchal range. This is the longest tunnel of India and second longest tunnel of Asia.The tunnel was constructed by making use of the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM). It is for the first time that the method of this kind was used on a large scale in India. The project was implemented by Hindustan Construction Company.
Rajasthan Launched A Scheme For Energy Conservation
On 27 June the Rajasthan government launched a unique scheme called “Mukhyamantri Bijli Bachat Lamp Yojna ” for energy conservation. The State government will provide 2 CFL bulb free of cost to all electricity consumers of villages and BPL consumers in urban areas. This unique scheme will continue till August 2013.The state Government will spent 100 crore rupees on this scheme.The purpose of this scheme is to save energy and conservation of environment.
Karnataka Govt Launched Helpline ” Arogyavani “
On 30 June The Karnataka government has launched a health information help line service ” Arogya Vani ” .The Call Centre has to provide information on the nearest Government Hospital, before providing a private-sector alternative.The main objective of this facility is to assist people living in rural or remote areas who face difficulty in accessing the service of qualified doctors and to provide information on any health problem.

CONFERENCES
Chief Minister’s Conference on Internal Security held in New Delhi
Chief minister’s Conference on Internal Security held in NewDelhi on 5th June 2013.The conference chaired by the Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh.In his address, the Prime Minister called for effective coordination between the Centre and the States to face the challenges of Internal Security.The Prime minister stated that the government has instituted several measures in 34 Naxal-hit areas to combat the Naxal menace.The key agenda of the chief ministers’ conference organised by Home Minister P Chidambaram is the strengthening of anti-terror capabilities and intelligence, Maoist violence, police reforms and capacity building.
39th G8 Summit Held in North Ireland
The 39th G8 summit was held on 17 and 18 June 2013 at Lough Erne county, Northern Ireland .The leaders of the G8 countries – Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the US, the UK ,attended the summit.In the G8 countries Summit discussed on syria crisis and advancement of trade, ensuring tax compliance and promoting greater transparency in the use of natural resources among countries.At the end of the two day summit, the leaders of G8 nations agreed on the seven point document and released a joint statement on Syria.The G8 leaders also agreed on providing new fund of nearly 1.5 billion US dollar to help the people affected by the raging conflict. Future of the Syrian President Bashar al-Assad was not made clear in the released statement.Russia to hold next G8 Summit in Sochi on  4 – 5 June 2014.The Group of Eight (G8) is a group made up of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Russia, the United Kingdom and the United States. The European Commission is also represented in the committee.

AWARDS & HONOURS
Sulabh Founder Pathak Received French Award
On 4 June Environmentalist Bindeshwar Pathak, founder of the famed Sulabh project that provides basic and affordable toilet access to India’s poor, has been presented with the “Legend of Planet” award in Paris.The award was presented to Pathak by the Vice-President of the French Senate, Chantal Jourdan, at Palais du Luxembourg.
Hugo Chavez Awarded “Simon Bolivar National Award of Journalism 2013 “
On 5 June The late Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez has been awarded the “”Simon Bolivar National Award of Journalism 2013 “”even though he was accused of persecuting the press during his 14 years in power.Chavez family will be given the award on June 27 at a ceremony in Miraflores Palace, in Caracas.
Kiran Bedi Received ” Nomura Award “
On 11 June Former IPS officer Kiran Bedi was honoured with USD 10,000 ‘Nomura Award’ at Singapore for her outstanding humanitarian works.Bedi was given the award constituted by Nomura Group of Japan for improving the world for future generations. The group is one of the leading financial services group.
Bill Clinton Awarded ‘Father of the Year’
On 11 June Former President of the United States Bill Clinton was honored as “” 2013 Father of the Year “” award from the National Father’s Day Committee at a New York City , which benefitted international NGO Save the Children.
Shabana Azmi Received Fourth Doctorate
On 12 June National award-winning actress Shabana Azmi received her fourth doctorate from Simon Fraser University in Vancouver .Shabana has received doctorates from Leeds University in Britain, the Jamia Millia Islamia in Delhi and the Jadavpur University in Kolkata, previously.
Delhi’s IGI Airport Get’s World’s Second Best Airport Award
On 14 June Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport has been named the world’s second best airport in the 25-40 million passengers category by the Airport Council International. The airport also has been adjudged as the fourth best in the world among 199 airports across all categories.IGI has managed to retain its position of second best airport in the 25-40 million passengers per annum category for 2012 year.
Anish Kapoor Honoured With Knighthood
On 15 June Indian-origin sculptor Anish Kapoor has been honoured with knighthood, one of the highest honours in Britain, by Queen Elizabeth II in her birthday honours list 2013 for services to Visual Arts.Kapoor is famous for his monumental public sculptures and his enigmatic sculptural forms that have been exhibited all over the world.
Tan Twan Eng Wins The “2013 Walter Scott prize”
On 14 June Malaysian writer author Tan Twan Eng has won the “2013 Walter Scott prize” for Historical Fiction for his second novel “The Garden of Evening Mists”.The Walter Scott Prize for the historical fiction was founded in the year 2010.
Indian Artist Selected For Dubai Art Prize
On 16 June Bangalore-based artist Anup Mathew Thomas, whose works featured at the Kochi biennale, is among five winners of Dubai Abraaj Group Art Prize.The Abraaj Group Art Prize was established in 2008.
Three Biotechnology Scientists Awarded “2013 World Food Prize “
On 20 June Three biotechnology researchers were named the winners of the 2013 World Food Prize for their independent, individual breakthrough achievements in founding, developing, and applying modern agricultural biotechnology.The three scientist are – Marc Van Montagu of Belgium, and Mary-Dell Chilton and Robert T. Fraley .The Iowa based award is often referred to as the “Nobel Prize for agriculture.The World Food Prize was created in 1987 by the late Nobel Peace Prize winner, Dr. Norman Borlaug, and is the foremost international award recognizing individuals who have contributed landmark achievements in increasing the quality, quantity or availability of food in the world.
 Taj Mahal Ranked Third Among Top Land Marks In The World
On 30 June According to the Trip Advisor’s 2013 Travellers Choice Attractions Awards,Travellers from across the globe have ranked India’s Taj Mahal among the top three landmarks in the world, a leading travel website has announced. Taj Mahal was ranked third in the list of Top 25 landmarks.The top two places were taken by Machu Picchu in Peru and Angkor Wat in Cambodia respectively.

  SPORTS & GAMES
Indian Won Six Medals In Slovakia Junior Table Tennis
On 3 June  Indian paddlers annexed four gold and two silver medals in the Slovak Junior ITTF Open table tennis championship in Slovakia.In the girls singles Sutirtha Mukherjee won the title.
Dhoni receives ICC ODI Championship Shield
On 3 June India captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni received the prestigious ICC ODI Championship Shield for finishing as the No. 1 ODI team in the Championship table on the April 1, 2013 cut-off date.
French Open 2013 Tennis Title Winners
Women’s Singles :- On 8 June Serena Williams from US won the Women’s Singles title of French Open Tennis tournament. In the final, she defeated Maria Sharapova .This is Serena’s second French Open title and 16th grand slam. It was the 31-year-old American’s 16th Grand Slam title win.At 31 years, 247 days she is the oldest women in the Open Era to win the French Open title.
Men’s Singles :- On 9 June Rafael Nadal won his 8th Men’s Singles Tittle of the French Open Tennis Tournament. In the final at Paris, Nadal defeated Spanish compatriot David Ferrer . With this, he became the first player to win 8 Singles Titles at the same Grand Slam Tournament. It was his 12th Grand Slam title overall.
Women’s Doubles :- Russian fourth seeds Ekaterina Makarova and Elena Vesnina won the French Open women’s doubles title by defeating top seeds Sara Errani and Roberta Vinci of Italy in the final.It was a first Grand Slam title for the Russian pair.
Men’s Doubles :- American twins Bob and Mike Bryan won the Men’s doubles .American twins extended their record by clinching their 14th Grand Slam trophy after defeated Michael Llodra and Nicolas Mahut of France in the men’s doubles final.
Sebastian Vettel Won Canadian Grand Prix Title
On 9 June Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel won the Canadian Grand Prix at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve in Montreal.Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso took the second position followed by Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes, who conquered the third position. This is the third win of the Garman F1 driver, before the Canadian Grand Prix, Vettel won the Malaysia and Bahrain Grand Prix of the year.
Srikanth Won Thailand Open Badminton
On 9 June Indian shuttler Srikanth has won the Thailand Open Grand Prix Gold Badminton trophy.In the Men’s Singles final Srikanth defeated Boonsak Ponsana from Thailand.
Indonesia Badminton Tournament 2013 Winner
Men’s Singles :- On 16 June Lee Chong Wei (Malaysia) won the Indonesia Badminton Tournament Men’s Singles title after defeated Germany’s Marc Zwiebler in the final.
Women’s Singles :- Li Xuerui of China won the title.In the women’s singles final Li Xuerui defeated Juliane Schenk from Germany.
Singapore Open Badminton 2013 Winners
Men’s Singles :- On 23 June  Indonesia’s Tommy Sugiarto has won the Singapore Open badminton championship Men’s singles title .Sugiarto defeated Boonsak Ponsana of Thailand in the final in Singapore.
Women’s Singles :- China’s Wang Yihan won the women’s singles title , after defeated Li Xuerui in the final.
India Won ICC Champions Trophy 2013
On 23 June India has won the ICC Champions Trophy 2013 after defeated England at Edgbaston in Birmingham with a five-run victory.Ravindra Jadeja was declared as the Man of the Match .He was also awarded with the Golden Ball for grabbing maximum number of wickets in the series.Sikhar Dhawan was declared as the Man of the Series. This was the second Champions Trophy title of India.
 Koneru Humpy Won FIDE Womens Grand Prix
On 28 June Koneru Humpy won the FIDE Women’s Grand Prix chess tournament at Dilijan, Armenia.Koneru Humpy finished her campaign with a flourish, defeated Mongolia’s Tuvshintugs Batchimeg in the final .Slovenia’s Anna Muzychuk finished second and Georgia’s  Nana Dzagnidze finished third.
 Nico Rosberg Won British Grand Prix
On 30 June Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg has won the British Formula One Grand Prix.Red Bull’s Mark Webber got second position and Ferrari’s Fernando Alonso claim third position.

 ECONOMY
 India 4th In World Steel Production
On 5 June According to the World Steel Association (WSA) data , India’s rank in the world order of steel production remained unchanged at fourth slot with an output of 77.06 MT (million tonnes) steel produced in 2012.China gets first ranked in world steel production .China produced 716.05 MT in 2012.Japan produced (2nd rank) 107.02 MT and US (3rd rank) 88.07 Mt in 2012.
Dhoni Ranked 16th On Forbes List Of  Highest Paid Athletes
According to the Forbes “List Of  Highest Paid Athletes “Indian cricket captain Mahendra Singh Dhoni,with earnings of $31.5 million, has been ranked at 16th place.Sachin Tendulukar got 51st place.This list is prepared based on last year annual income.The annual income of MS Dhoni is $31.5 million.But he earned $3.5 million  from matches and remaining amount from advertisements and other business.Sachin Tendulkar’s annual income is $22 million . The Golfer Tiger Wood(America) got a 1st place in this list with annual income of $78.1 million followed by tennis star Roger Federer at $71.5 million. Kobe Bryant, American professional basketball player, is third at $61.9 million.
World’s Highest Density Of Millionaires In Qatar
On 10 June According to the Boston Consulting Group’s (BCG) 13th Annual Global Wealth Management Report ,Qatar has the highest density of millionaires in the world, with 14.3 pc of the oil-rich Gulf nation’s population holding private wealth of $1 mn.The figure shows 143 out of every 1,000 households in Qatar holding private wealth of at least $1 million, much higher than the global average.Kuwait ranks third with 11.5%, while Bahrain (4.9%) and the UAE (4.0%) rank seventh and ninth, respectively.
World Bank Expected India To Grow 5.7% In FY 13
On 13 June According to the World Bank “”Global Economic Prospects (GEP) “” report ,Growth in India is projected to rise to 5.7 percent in the 2013 fiscal year and firm to 6.5 percent and 6.7 percent in FY2014 and FY2015, respectively.Global GDP is expected to expand about 2.2 percent this year and strengthen to 3.0 percent and 3.3 percent in 2014 and 2015.
2011-12 Poverty and Household Consumer Expenditure Indicators Released
On 20 June The National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) in its 68th round survey has released the poverty and key indicators of household consumer expenditure in India, generated from the data collected during July 2011–June 2012 .The National Sample Survey Office’s (NSSO) 68th round of survey is based on samples consisting of 7,496 villages in rural India and 5,263 urban blocks except some remote areas.
Highlights of  the Poverty and Household Consumer Expenditure Indicators Data Report :-
*  5 per cent population on the bottom rung had an average monthly per capita expenditure (MCPE) of Rs 521.44 in rural areas and Rs 700.50 in urban areas.
* Poorest of poor in the country survive on barely Rs 17 per day in villages and Rs 23 a day in cities.
* On the other end of the spectrum, top five per cent of the population had an MPCE of Rs 4,481 in rural areas and Rs 10,282 in urban areas.
* On an average on the all-India basis, MPCE was around Rs 1,430 for rural India and about Rs 2,630 for urban India.
* For the average rural Indian, food accounted for 52.9 per cent of the value of consumption during 2011-12.Among non-food item categories, fuel and light for household purposes (excluding transportation) accounted for 8 per cent, clothing and footwear 7 per cent, medical expenses 6.7 per cent, education 3.5 per cent, conveyance 4.2 per cent, other consumer services (excluding conveyance) 4 per cent, and consumer durables 4.5 per cent.
* For the average urban Indian, 42.6 per cent of the value of household consumption was accounted for food, including 9 per cent by beverages, refreshments and processed food, 7 per cent by milk and milk products, and 6.7 per cent by cereals and cereal substitutes.Education accounted for 6.9 per cent, fuel and light 6.7 per cent, conveyance 6.5 per cent, and clothing and footwear 6.4 per cent.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
Lightest Alien Planet Outside Solar System
On 3 June European scientists have discovered a new alien planet orbiting a young star about 300 light years from Earth.The exoplanet, ” HD 95086 b “, was observed directly by the European Southern Observatory’s (ESO) Very Large Telescope in Chile.Nearly 1,000 exoplanets have been detected indirectly through various means such as radical velocity and transmit method.Of  the 12 exoplanets ,the newly discovered HD 95086 b is the least massive planet to have been directly observed outside the solar system .HD 95086 b orbiting its parent star, HD 95086, is estimated to have a mass of four to five times that of Jupiter.
Japan Unveiled 500 kmph Bullet Train
On 5 June Japan has unveiled its new levitating bullet train, designed to travel at speeds of upto 500 kmph.The track is being extended to 43 kilometres to enable full-fledged test runs.Commercial runs of the maglev train are scheduled to start between Tokyo and Nagoya in 2027.The train magnetic levitation (maglev) as opposed to conventional wheels.The train will travel at speeds of up to 500 kilometres per hour and will link the 2 cities in 40 minutes.
Researchers Leads To Discovery To Create Early Warning System For Tsunamis
On 7 June Researchers from Stanford University  have identified key acoustic characteristics of the 2011 Japan earthquake that indicated it would cause a large tsunami.In 2011, a magnitude 9.0 undersea earthquake occurred 43 miles off the shore of Japan. The earthquake generated an unexpectedly massive tsunami that washed over eastern Japan roughly 30 minutes later.Now, computer simulations by Stanford scientists reveal that sound waves in the ocean produced by the earthquake probably reached land tens of minutes before the tsunami. If correctly interpreted, they could have offered a warning that a large tsunami was on the way.
China Successfully Launches Fifth Manned Space Mission
On 11 June China successfully launched its fifth and longest manned space mission with three astronauts, including a woman, on board ‘Shenzhou-10 as part of the Communist giant’s efforts to build a permanent space lab of its own by 2020. Shenzhou-10 (Divine Craft) spaceship carried the three astronauts blasted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Centre in Gansu province for a 15-day-long mission during which it would dock with Tiangong-1 space lab orbiting round the Earth and conduct a host of experiments.Now China’s fifth manned mission and would last a fortnight compared to last year’s 13 days.Wang Yaping the second Chinese woman to go into space after Liu Yang last year.
India and US Launched Space Solar Power Initiative
In the month of  June India and a top US science body have forged an international organisation to develop space solar power ,an initiative that has the potential of solving humanity’s energy needs and greatly mitigating climate change.In his Address to the 2013 National Space Society’s International Space Development Conference (ISDC 2013) Mark Hopkins asserted to include specific mechanisms such as the Global Space Knowledge Platform, the International Virtual Laboratory, and the International Advisory Committee that Abdul Kalam has elaborated through discussion papers.
New Human Cornea Layer Discovered
On 12 June Indian researcher Harminder Dua, Professor of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences at the Nottingham University, has found a previously undetected layer in the cornea , the clear window at the front of the human eye – and named Dua’s layer.Scientists previously believed the cornea to be composed of five layers, from front to back, the corneal epithelium, Bowman’s layer, the corneal stroma, Descemet’s membrane and the corneal endothelium.The new layer that has been discovered is located at the back of the cornea between the corneal stroma and Descemet’s membrane.Although it is just 15 microns thick – the entire cornea is around 550 microns thick .
Andaman Tsunami Warning System Can Alert In 3 Minutes
On 12 June The Early Tsunami Warning System installed at Rangachang in Andaman and Nicobar Islands can predict a tsunami immediately after an earthquake.The system can predict tsunami within 3 minutes after the occurrence of the initial tremors and send alerts.Following the alerts sent from the Tsunami Warning System, the tsunami alerts can be issued to the risk zones via Centre in consultation with Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services, INCOIS at Hyderabad.
IAF Gets “C-17 Globemaster-III ” Airlifters
On 12 June The Indian Air Force (IAF) inducted the first of the 10 “”C-17 Globemaster-III “” heavy airlifters it has purchased from the US, and then order six more.Now the Indian Air Force on this milestone as India joins the worldwide community of C-17 operators.Boeing is on track to deliver four more C-17s to the IAF this year and five in 2014.India signed an agreement with the U.S. in 2011, to acquire 10 C-17 airlifters, making India the largest C-17 customer outside the U.S.
China Super Computer “Tianhe-2 Named World’s Fastest Computer
On 17 June China’s National University of Defense Technology developed world’s fastest supercomputer “Tianhe-2. The Tianhe-2 has a peak performance speed of 54.9 quadrillion operations per second.”Tianhe-2 means Milky Way-2.This Chinese supercomputer Tianhe-2 and it replaced US machine called Titan, which was earlier said to be the fastest computer of the world.
 World Bank Released ‘Global Warming In India ‘ Report
On 19 June According to the World Bank new report prepared by the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research and Climate Analytics, the report warns that global warming could lead to more extreme droughts across large parts of India,over the next few decades.The impact of a possible global temperature rise of 2 degrees Celsius in the next few decades threatened to trap millions of people in poverty.Depicting life in a not-too-distant future shaped by already present warming trends, the new report warns that by the 2040s, India will see a significant reduction in crop yields because of extreme heat.The warming will impact significant reduction in crop yields and some 63 million people may no longer be able to meet their caloric demand.
Scientists Discovered New Language In Australia
On 19 June Scientists have discovered a new language in northern Australia which contains rare grammatical innovations and a unique combination of elements from other languages.The language, now known as Light Warlpiri, is spoken by approximately 300 people in a remote desert community about 644 kilometres from Katherine, a town located in Australia’s Northern Territory.
 Japan To Send Kirobo The Talking Robot Into Space
Japan announced a humanoid robot named ” Kirobo “will be used in the world’s first communication experiments between a human and a robot in space.The pint-sized robot developed by Toyota Motor Corp ,the University of Tokyo and venture firm Robo Garage.Just 13 inches tall and weighing 2.2 pounds, Kirobo will launch aboard an H-IIB rocket in August from the Tanegashima Space Center in Kagoshima Prefecture and head for the International Space Station.
NASA Launched ” IRIS ” Spacecraft To Study Sun’s Atmosphere
On 27 June NASA has launched ” Interface Region Imaging Spectrograph (IRIS) ” spacecraft from Vandenberg Air Force Base, California.The mission to study the solar atmosphere was placed in orbit by an Orbital Sciences Corporation Pegasus XL rocket.The Pegasus XL carrying IRIS was deployed from an Orbital L-1011 carrier aircraft over the Pacific Ocean at an altitude of 39,000 feet, off the central coast of California about 100 miles northwest of Vandenberg. The rocket placed IRIS into a sun-synchronous polar orbit that will allow it to make almost continuous solar observations during its two-year mission.
 ‘INS Trikand’ Commissioned Into Indian Navy
On 30 June INS Trikand, the last of the three Follow on Talwar Class frigates built in the Russian Federation, was commissioned into the Indian Navy on 29th June at Kaliningrad, Russia by Vice Admiral R. K. Dhowan, the Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, Indian Navy.The commissioning of INS Trikand marks the culmination of a three ship contract for Follow on Talwar Class ships built in Russia. Her sister ships INS Teg and INS Tarkash were commissioned in 2012.INS Trikand carries a state-of-the-art combat suite which includes the supersonic BRAHMOS missile system, advanced Surface to Air missiles Shtil, upgraded A190 medium range gun, Electro-optical 30 mm Close-in Weapon System, Anti-Submarine weapons such as torpedoes and rockets and an advanced Electronic Warfare system.

PERSONS IN NEWS
A) APPOINTMENTS
Justice Kaul Sworn in as Punjab and Haryana High Court Chief
On 1st June Haryana Governor Jagannath Pahadia administered the oath of office to Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul as the Chief Justice of the Punjab and Haryana High Court at Haryana Raj Bhavan.Justice Kaul, 54, earlier served as the senior most judge of the Delhi High Court and was the acting Chief Justice there in September last year.the strength of judges of Punjab and Haryana High Court has reached 41 as against the sanctioned strength of 68 judges. Shortage of judges leads to pendency in the cases and the ideal strength should be between 50 to 55.
Jagmohan Dalmiya is new Interim President of BCC
On 1 June Cricket Association of Bengal president Jagmohan Dalmiya , a former president of the BCCI and ICC, has been appointed as the new interim president of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI).BCCI chief N. Srinivasan agreed to step aside, with Cricket Association of Bengal (CAB) president Jagmohan Dalmiya took over as the board’s interim president.
Narayana Murthy Re-elected as Executive Chairman in Infosys
On 1 June NR Narayana Murthy has been re-elected as Executive Executive Chairman of the Board in Infosys.He would serve as board chairman for 5 years.Narayan Murthy was appointed as the chairman for the second time.Murthy, who founded Infosys in 1981, had stepped down from the Board and became Chairman Emeritus in 2011. He has served as company’s CEO from 1981 to 2002.
Indian-Origin Diplomat is New Australian Envoy to Israel
On 2 June 2013 Indian – origin diplomat appointed Devanand Sharma appointed as a Australian envoy to Israel.Devanand Sharma has made history by becoming the country’s youngest Ambassador after he was appointed Canberra’s envoy to Israel.He got Medicine degree from Sydney University.Mr Sharma’s prior international service includes postings as Counsellor at the Australian Embassy in Washington.
Nawaz Sharif Sworn in as Pakistan’s PM
On 5 June Nawaz Sharif has been sworn-in for a record third term as Pakistan`s Prime Minister, after he was elected with 244 votes in the 342-seat Parliament.He was sworn-in by the President Asif Ali Zardari at a function in an ornate hall at the Presidency.Sharif has served as the Pakistani Premier during 1990-1993 and 1997-1999 but was ousted from office before he could complete his term, once on corruption charges and later because of a military coup led by Pervez Musharraf.
Virginius Xaxa is new National Advisory Council Member
On 6 June Union government has reconstituted the National Advisory Council by including prominent sociologist Virginius Xaxa into the 12-member panel chaired by Sonia Gandhi.Virginius Xaxa was inducted with the exit of Aruna Roy from the panel.Virginius Xaxa is a Professor at the Tata Institute of Social Sciences, Guwahati and has worked extensively on tribal communities of the country.The NAC comprises distinguished professionals drawn from diverse fields of development activity who serve in their individual capacities.
TCA Raghavan is India’s new High Commissioner To Pakistan
On 6 June TCA Raghavan has been appointed as the new High Commissioner to Pakistan.A 1982-batch IFS officer, Raghavan is currently serving as India’s high commissioner to Singapore.Raghavan will replace Sharat Sabharwal, who was on an extension after he retired last year.
K R Kamath Re-elected as IBA chairman
On 6 June Punjab National Bank’s (PNB) Chairman and Managing Director K. R. Kamath was re-elected as Chairman of  Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) for 2013-14 tenure.Indian Banks’ Association (IBA) was formed on 26 September 1946.It is an association of Indian banks and financial institutions. It is based in Mumbai.
Justice Usha Mehra Becomes Full Time Member Of  Law Commission
On 13 June Justice Usha Mehra, retired Judge of the High Court of Delhi, has been appointed as full-time Member of the 20th Law Commission of India.Bijai Narain Mani, eminent law author, and Gurjeet Singh, Director General of the National Law School and Judicial Academy Assam, were appointed part-time members of the panel.The panel, which advices government on complex legal issues, is headed by Justice D K Jain, former judge of the Supreme Court.
S K Roy Appointed New Chairman of  LIC
S K Roy has been appointed as the Chairman of Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC).Roy succeed D.K. Mehrotra, and get a five-year term as chairman.On May 31, 2013, he assumed charge as Managing Director of LIC along with Thomas Mathew and Sarkar.Roy joined the largest insurance company in the country in 1981.
John Ashe Elected UN General Assembly President
On 15 June John Ashe, the ambassador to the United Nations for Antigua and Barbuda has been elected President of the United Nations General Assembly.He selected as the President of UN General Assembly for its 68th session.
Ratan Tata is new Chief Advisor of AirAsia India Board
On 16 June Ratan Tata has been appointed as the chief Advisor to the board of AirAsia Indian, the joint venture between the Tata Group and Malaysian low-cost carrier AirAsia.AirAsia has also named Mittu Chandilya as the CEO of its Indian venture.
Manmohan Singh Takes Oath as Rajya Sabha Member
On 17 June Prime Minister Manmohan Singh took oath as member of Rajya Sabha.Manmohan Singh was re-elected a member of Rajya Sabha from Assam for the fifth consecutive term on 30 May 2013.Another Congress member from Assam Santius Kujur also took oath as member of Rajya Sabha.
Indian Named Editor Of  “The Independent”  
On 17 June Indian-origin journalist Amol Rajan was named the editor of The Independent,becoming the first non-white editorial head of a UK national paper. Amol Rajan will replace Chris Blackhurst, becoming Fleet Street’s first non-white newspaper editor.
S Ramadorai is AirAsia India new Chairman
On 17 June Subramanian Ramadorai, former head of the Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), has been appointed as the Chairman of AirAsia India.Subramanian Ramadorai, holds the rank of cabinet minister in the Government of India.
Indian-American Sri Srinivasan Sworn In As Top US Court Judge
On 18 June Indian-American legal luminary Sri Srinivasan was sworn in as a judge in the US Court of Appeals for the DC Circuit, the second most powerful court in the United States after the Supreme Court.Srinivasan from Chandigarh has become the first Indian American judge in the second most powerful court of the country.
Krishna Chaudhary is new NDRF chief
On 25 June Senior IPS officer Krishna Chaudhary has been appointed as Director General, National Disaster Response Force and Civil Defence.His appointment will take effect from the date he assumes charge of the post and until his superannuation on June 30, 2017.
 Kevin Rudd Sworns As Australian PM For Second Time
On 27 June Kevin Rudd was sworn in as Australia’s prime minister for second time ,replaced Julia Gillard who was removed in a Labor Party caucus vote.He was sworn in at Government House in Canberra by Governor General Quentin Bryce.Now Kevin Michael Rudd is the 28th Prime Minister of Australia, as well as Leader of the Labor Party.
Justice P Sadasivam Appointed As New Chief Justice Of India
On 29 June P. Sathasivam was appointed as the 40th Chief Justice of India . He will take over the charge on completion of the tenure of present incumbent Altamas Kabir which will end on July 18, 2013.As the 40th CJI, Sathasivam will serve the nation till his 26 April 2014.Sathasivam joined as a permanent judge of the Madras high court in January 1996 after which he was transferred to the Punjab and Haryana high court in April 2007.He was appointed as a Supreme Court judge on August 21, 2007.
B)RESIGNS
Rajiv Shukla Resigned as IPL chairman
On 1st June 2013,Rajiv Shukla has resigned as the Chairman of the Indian Premiere League.He has decided to quit in the wake of recent controversies in the IPL Spot Fixing Scandal.
Union MinistersAjay Maken and CP Joshi Resigned
On 15 June Union Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation minister Ajay Maken ,Surface Transport and Highways Minister as well as Railway Minister CP Joshi, resigned from their offices.Their resignation was accepted by the President Pranab Mukherjee.
Czech Republic Prime Minister Petr Necas Resigned
On 17 June Czech Republic prime minister Petr Necas has resigned ,after a fraud and spying scandal involving his closest aide, pitching the European Union member state into a period of uncertainty.Petr Necas is a former Prime Minister of the Czech Republic and leader of the Civic Democratic Party. He was sworn into office in 2010.
 Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah Resigned
On 23 June Palestinian Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah announced his resignation ,following a dispute between the prime minister and his two deputies, Mohammed Mustafa and Ziad Abu Amru, who also serve as senior advisors to President Abbas.Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas accepted the resignation of newly appointed Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah.Prime Minister Rami Hamdallah takes charges on 2 June and he had served only 20 days.
C)DEATHS
British Comic Author Tom Sharpe Died
On 6 June British comic novelist Tom Sharpe has died in the coastal town of Llafranc in north-eastern Spain.His first two books were satires about South Africa’s apartheid regime.Sharpe travelled to South Africa in 1951 after leaving Cambridge, to work as a teacher and photographer. Sharpe’s other books include “Riotous Assembly, “Indecent Exposure” and “Porterhouse Blue,” all written in the 1970s.
World’s ‘Oldest Person Luo Meizhen Died
World’s oldest person Luo Meizhen from China has died on 11 June.Meizhen was born in 1885 and was 127 years old.But the Guinness Book of World Records never recognized her claim.
Former Union Minister VC Shukla Died
VC Shukla, a former Union minister and Congress veteran from Chhattisgarh, died on 11 June in Gurgaon.Shukla was injured in 2013 May Chhattisgarh Maoist attack.He was elected to the Lok Sabha nine times.He first became a minister in 1966, when he was 37 years old, in Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s cabinet.He held many important portfolios in his long career span which includes Communications, Home, Defence, Finance, Planning, Information & Broadcasting, Civil Supplies, External Affairs, Parliamentary Affairs and Water Resources.
World’s Oldest Person Jiroemon Kimura Died
On 12 June The world’s oldest person Jiroemon Kimura has died in Japan.116-year-old Jiroemon Kimura was born on 19 April 1897.He became the world’s oldest person on December 17, 2012, following the death of 115-year-old Dina Manfredini, who lived in the US state of Iowa.
Veteran Communist Leader Satyapal Dang Died
On 15 June Veteran Veteran communist party leader Satyapal Dang died in Amritsar.Satya Pal Dang was Born in 1920 in Gujranwala in Pakistan and had married to Vimla, another CPI leader, in 1952. Vimla died in 2009.Dang had contested his first Vidhan Sabha election in 1966-67 from Amritsar west constituency.He was elected four times to Punjab assembly from Amritsar.Satypal Dang was awarded Padma Shri in 1998 for his contribution to the social sphere, as he, along with Vimla, had fought many relentless battles for the cause of the downtrodden.However, Satyapal Dang had returned the Padma Bhushan and demanded abolition of all such awards contending a person’s contribution to society is judged by his deeds and not by honours.
 Former Union Minister Bhavna Chikhalia Died
Former Union minister of state and the first woman to get elected to the Lower House (Lok Sabha) from Gujarat for four consecutive terms, Bhavna Chikhalia died on 28 June.She was union minister of state for tourism, culture and parliamentary affairs from 1998-2003 in the NDA government headed by Atal Behari Vajpayee. She was also the chairperson of the Railway Convention Committee from 1999-02.Bhavnaben Chikhalia first got elected to the Lok Sabha from 1991, before registering victories again in 1996, 1998 and 1999.
D)VISITORS
Union External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid Visited Iraq
Salman Khurshid, the Union External Affairs Minister visited Iraq from 19 to 20 June 2013.During the visit Khurshid met with the Prime Minister of Iraq Nouri al-Maliki and the two nations discussed issues of bilateral and mutual interests including import of oil for energy security along with the avenues of partnership.This is the first visit of any Minister from Indian Union to Iraq after 23 years in the war-raved country.Former Prime Minister of India, Inder Kumar Gujral visited Iraq in 1990 during his tenure as an External Affairs Minister of Indian Union.
U.S. Secretary Of State John Kerry Visited India
U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry visited India from 23 – 25 June 2013.During the visit Kerry co-chaired the fourth India-US Strategic Dialogue with External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid and discussed on bilateral trade, defence and security cooperation besides energy and higher education ,including India’s relations with Pakistan.On 24 June Kerry also met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh in New Delhi.Both have discussed issues of mutual interest.This is Kerry’s first visit in India after his appointment as the US Secretary of State.
E)MISCELLANEOUS
Raghav Joneja Becomes Youngest Indian To Climb Mt Everest
Raghav Joneja youngest Indian to climbed the Mount Everest .He is one of the member in Laren’s school youngest team of mountaineers in the world.Climbing at the age of 15 years and seven months Raghav Joneja broke the record set by Nameirakpam Chingkheinganba  of Manipur’s, who climed the everest at the age 16 years seven months and 11 days.Lawrence School in Kasuali became the first school in the world to send a team to the highest peak .
China Woman Astronaut Astronaut Delivers First Space Lecture
On 20 June China’s second woman astronaut Wang Yaping, who is currently orbiting the earth in an experimental space lab, has become the country’s first space teacher as she delivered a lecture to over 60 million Chinese students about various aspects life in space.In a 45 minutes lecture, Wang, an air force pilot assisted by her two male colleagues demonstrated weightlessness and how it affects the Newton laws of gravity.
Ancient Chinese Documents On Tibet Won UNESCO Recognition
On 21 June Historical Chinese documents describing Tibet during China’s Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368) and showing the ancient financial and messaging service of the period, have won a major UNESCO recognition.The documents showing how finances and messages were exchanged between overseas Chinese and their domestic relatives in that era, were stored and recommended for the UNESCO honour by the archives bureaus of Guangdong and Fujian provinces, from which the first batch of overseas Chinese originated.
 Italy’s Ex-Prime Minister Berlusconi Sentenced To 7 Years In Prison
On 24 June Italy’s Ex-Prime Minister Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi was sentenced to seven years in prison and banned from public office for corruption and underage prostitution case.
 Two Year Old Boy Becomes Youngest Ever To Join Mensa
On 27 June A two-year-old boy Adam Kirby in UK has become the youngest ever member of the genius club Mensa, after he scored an incredible 141 on an IQ test.Adam Kirby scored 141 in the IQ test that reportedly ranked him smarter than US President Barack Obama and British Premier David Cameron.Adam Kirby was invited to join the elite group after demonstrating his ability to read Shakespeare and understand Japanese, Spanish and French.

PLACES  IN  NEWS
Bangkok Ranked World’s Top Travel Spot
On 2 June According to a ranking by the MasterCard Index of Global Destination Cities study report ,Bangkok is this year’s number one city for air travel.While London reached the top spot in 2012.Now Bangkok becoming the first Asian city to earn the distinction.Visits to Bangkok were expected to grow by 9.8 percent this year.If all of the top 10 cities maintained their current growth rates, the index predicted that by 2016 Bangkok and London would be followed by Istanbul in the No. 3 spot, with Paris at No. 4 and Dubai at No.5, with Singapore and New York behind them.The ranking was based on a city’s expected international air travel arrivals and the amount of money spent in the city by those arrivals.
Dubai Inaugurated World’s Tallest ‘Twisted’ Tower
On 13 June Dubai has inaugurated the world’s tallest twisted tower named “”Cayan”" Tower built at a cost of  272 million US dollar, setting a yet another record for skyscrapers and other engineering marvels. Earlier it was named the Infinity Tower.The tower was inaugurated in Dubai Marina.The 310-metre (1,017-foot), 75-storey residential “”Cayan”" Tower is twisted at 90 degrees from top to bottom.The developer of this tower is Cayan Real Estate Investment and Development Company.
World’s Longest and Widest Cable Bridge Inaugurated In China
On 18 June The world’s longest and widest multi-pylon cable-stayed bridge named “Jiaxing-Shaoxing Sea Bridge” with a span of 10km has opened in China after seven years of construction work.The Jiaxing-Shaoxing Sea Bridge stretches 6.2miles (10 kilometres) over the Hangzhou Bay, in Shaoxing, China.It is mainly supported by two cable-towers, both of which reach 745ft in the air, and has a main body stretching 2,560ft wide.The high speed bridge is designed for vehicles travelling exclusively above 60mph and pedestrians, motorbikes and cars with a maximum speed below 45mph are not allowed to cross.
Earth Quake Hits Northern Italy
On 21 June 2013 a magnitude 5.2 earthquake struck Italy,causing some minor damage in Casola in Liguana. The tremors were felt across central and northern Italy. According to the national geophysics institute,the epicenter of earthquake was between the towns of Massa and Lucca in Tuscany and La Spezia in the Liguria region.
 UNESCO Declared Six Rajasthan Forts World Heritage Sites
On 22 June Six hill forts in Rajasthan have been selected to be included in the Unesco’s World Heritage List. The hill forts are Amber, Chittorgarh, Gangron, Jaisalmer, Kumbhalgarh and Ranthambore.
 Thousand’s Of People Are Died In Uttarakhand Floods
In the month of June 2013 the North Indian states of Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh, some regions of Western Nepal and their adjoining areas experienced heavy rainfall that triggered devastating floods and landslides.More than thousand’s of  people are died in Uttarakhand state floods and landslides.This year’s early monsoon rains in the Uttarakhand region are believed to be the heaviest in 80 years.Damage to bridges and roads left over 70,000 pilgrims and tourists trapped in various places of whom, many were rescued.

ABBREVIATIONS 
 BCCI  ——–  Board of Control for Cricket in India
UNDP ——-   United Nations Development Programme
RSBY ——-   Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojna
FIFA – ——-  Federation Internationale de Football Association
WSA ——-    World Steel Association
FCI ———   Food Corporation of India
APEC   ——— – Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation
FICCI ————– Federation of India Chambers of Commerce and Industry

BOOKS IN NEWS
” Dard-E-Dil Likhun Kab Tak ” Book Released by Vice President of India
“On 6 June The Vice President Mohammad Hamid Ansari released a book entitled “Dard-e-Dil Likhun Kab Tak” (in Urdu and Hindi) authored by Rukhsar Amrohvi. The book is a compilation of poems composed by poetess Rukhsar Amrohvi and some rare pictures of the historic moments of Indian Cinema. This book is a valuable addition to the Urdu Literature.
” Ambedkar Speaks ” Book Released
On 20 June M Hamid Ansari, vice president of India released a book titled ” Ambedkar Speaks ” in New Delhi.The book was authored by by Dr. Narendra Jadhav.The book has been published by Konark Publishers.”Ambedkar Speaks” is the first ever attempt at a systematic study of Dr Ambedkar’s 537 speeches.The series is available in four languages – Marathi, English, Hindi and Gujarati. The first series was first launched in Marathi.
 ” 1857-1947: Forgotten Heroes and Martyrs of India’s Freedom Movement ” Book Released
On 24 June The book titled, “1857-1947: Forgotten Heroes and Martyrs of India’s Freedom Movement”, is written by journalist Shivnath Jha was launched on 24 June 2013 in Mumbai by former Bombay High Court chief justice C S Dharmadhikari.The book will act as a campaign to highlight the miserable conditions of descendants and families of freedom fighters as well as an attempt to bring about a change.
 “Distressing Encounters – Real Life Stories ” Book Released
On 30 June Indian Ambassador to the UAE M. K. Lokesh released a book titled Distressing Encounters – Real Life Stories from a Reporter’s Diary by Dubai-based Indian journalist V. M. Sathish.The book narrates real-life stories of distressed and marginalised expatriates from different countries and cultures and the role played by the media, especially the English media, in extending a helping hand to such people.

COMMITTEES
Anil Swarup Committee Set Up To Re-start Stalled Projects
On 7 June Union Finance Minister P Chidambaram announced a committee has been appointed to identify and help re-start as many as 215 large projects worth over Rs 7 lakh crore which have been stalled for years and assured that each of these projects will be off the ground at the earliest.A committee headed by Anil Swarup.
Chandrashekhar Committee To Frame Rules For Foreign Investors
The Market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) Committee under the chairmanship of  Cabinet secretary KM Chandrashekhar,submitted its report on 12 June.The committee has recommended doing away with prior direct registration of foreign institutional investors (FIIs) and sub accounts with Sebi. It also recommended merging FIIs, sub accounts and qualified foreign investors (QFIs) into a new investor class to be called the foreign portfolio investor.
 Arvind Mayaram Committee Recommends Rise In FDI Limit In Various Sectors
On 23 June The Union Government constituted a committee to clearly define the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) and Foreign Institutional Investment (FII). The report of this committee was submitted to the Ministry of Finance (FinMin) . The committee that was headed by the Arvind Mayaram recommended raising the Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limit to 49 percent from 26 percent at present in almost all sectors through automatic route.

IMPORTANT DAYS AND DATES
International Olympic Day Celebrated Across the World on 23 June 2013
On 23 June International Olympic Day was celebrated across the world . The day is celebrated for promotion of participation of people in the sports all across the world, irrespective of athletic, gender or age ability.
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking Observed
On 26 June The United Nations General Assembly declared 26 June as the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in the year 1987. The objective of observing this day is to strengthen the action as well as cooperation in order to achieve the aim of a society free of drug abuse.The General Assembly however found out that inspite of increasing efforts by the international community to curb this menace, the world problem of drug abuse increased. Drug abuse poses serious threat to safety as well as well being of humanity as well as to the public health. Eventually, the Commission and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) was directed to continue its work towards international drug control.
Source:  GKDuniya

01 July 2013

Updated Current Affairs May 2013



INTERNATIONAL
Every year 2,70,000 Pedestrains are died  in the World
On May 2 , World Health Organization (WHO) announced that every year 2,70,000 pedestrains are died in road accidents. In case of pedestrains protection is ignored by goverments.So,every week 5 thousands of pedestrains are died.
Maryland became the First southern US state to Abolish Death Penalty
Maryland, the U.S. state located in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States, on 2 May 2013 became the first southern US state to abolish the death penalty.The measure on it was signed by Democratic Governor Martin O’Malley on 2 May 2013.The person who was attended was former Maryland death row inmate Kirk Bloodsworth.He will be the first person in the country freed from death penalty because of DNA evidence after being convicted in a death penalty case.On the global level, Maryland is the 18th state to abolish the death penalty.
UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) Released Somalia Famine Conditions Report
On 3 May According to the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) study report, nearly 260,000 people died during the famine that hit Somalia from 2010 to 2012.Half of them were children under the age of five.The number of deaths was higher than the estimated 220,000 people who died during the 1992 famine.An estimated 4.6% of the total population and 10% of children under five died in southern and central Somalia.In Lower Shabelle, 18% of children under five died and in Mogadishu 17%.Somalia was worst hit by the extreme drought in 2011 that affected more than 13 million people across the Horn of Africa.Tens of thousands of people fled their homes in search of food.
 Japan – UAE signed Nuclear Agreement
On 3 May Japan and the United Arab Emirates signed on the transfer of nuclear cooperation agreement .It was the first bilateral nuclear agreement signed by Japan since the 2011 Fukushima nuclear crisis triggered by the devastating earthquake and tsunami.The agreements was signed by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and UAE Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Amazonian Countries Signed Strengthen Regional Cooperation Agreement
On 4 May The representatives of the member countries of the Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization (ACTO) agreed to widen and strengthen regional cooperation to promote the integral development of those territories.Foreign ministers and representatives of Colombia, Peru, Brazil, Bolivia, Venezuela, Guyana, Surinam and Ecuador signed the Coca Declaration, by which they agreed to support initiatives as that presented by Ecuador and the establishment of the Regional Observatory for the Amazon.The countries that signed the document also intend to facilitate the coordination between OTCA, the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (Celac), the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR), the Andean Community (CAN), the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR) and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
Malaysia’s Barisan Nasional wins parliamentary election
The National Front coalition or Barisan Nasional (BN) led by Prime Minister Najib Razak triumphed in Malaysia’s general parliamentary election on 05 May 2013. The BN won 133 seats in the 222-seat parliament, taking 60% of the votes, while the opposition Pakatan Rakyat (PR) party secured 89 seats.80% of Malaysia’s 13.3 million voters cast their ballots in what is being called the closest race ever in Malaysia.
Russia and U.S. Agreed on Syria Peace Process
On 7 May Russia and the United States agreed to work together to bring the warring sides in Syria to the negotiating table raising hopes for an end to carnage in the war-torn country and a thaw in frosty relations between Moscow and Washington.U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry met Russian President Vladimir Putin and bid to narrow the differences between Moscow and Washington on the conflict.
73 Million Youth Will Be Unemployed By 2013
On 8 May According to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) ‘Global Unemployment Trends 2007-13 ‘ report , more than 73 million young people are unemployed around the world .The situation is particularly grim in the European Union, West Asia and North Africa.73.4 million people aged between 15 and 24 would be out of work at the end of the year an increase of 3.5 million since 2007.The youth unemployment rate in South Asia decreased in 2011 by 0.4 percentage points to reach 9.2 per cent, but increased to 9.3 per cent in 2012.The current jobless rate for the young of 12.6% was expected to keep swelling to 12.8% by 2018, when more than two million more youths would likely be out of work
Brazil, Argentina Signed Agreement To Build Nuclear Reactors
On 8 May Brazil and Argentina have agreed to extend their nuclear cooperation by jointly commission will jointly build two research reactors.The agreement, signed by the Brazilian National Commission for Nuclear Energy (CNEN) and the National Commission of Atomic Energy (CNEA), is centred on the construction of two reactors.
Argentine Passed Judicial Reform Bill
On 8 May Argentina’s Senate passed a Judicial Reform Law, by 38 votes in favor to 30.According to Argentine President Cristina Fernandez it aims at democratizing the judiciary.
Nawaz Sharif Re-elected for Third term as Pakistan PM
On 14 May Two time former Prime Minister of Pakistan Nawaz Sharif  re-elected as Pakistan Prime Minister for the third time after won the general elections  with a thumping majority.The Election Commission of Pakistan announced results of 272 National Assembly seats, with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz heading the count with 126 seats, followed by the Pakistan Peoples Party with 31 seats.The Sharif, belongs to Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (N) party. Pakistan Muslim League-N attained an overpowering lead with 130 seats. The first runner up is Imran Khan`s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) with 37 seats and the last is Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) with 31 seats.Nawaz Sharif previously having been Pakistan’s 12th and 14th Prime Minister for two non-consecutive terms from November 1990 to July 1993 and from February 1997 to October 1999. Sharif is the President of Pakistan Muslim League-N, one of Pakistan’s largest political parties.
France became the 14th Country in the World to legalise Gay Marriage
In France now onwards allow same-sex couples to marry. France’s President Francois Hollande on 17 May 2013 signed into law a controversial bill to legalise gay marriage. It makes France the ninth in Europe and 14th in the world to do so.
Zimbabwe’s President Signed New Constitution Into Law
On 22 Zimbabwe President Robert Mugabe signed Zimbabwe’s new constitution into law. The new constitution was approved overwhelmingly in a referendum in March 2013.The constitution cut short the powers of the president, limits presidential tenures to two five-year terms and does away with the post of prime minister.
Afghanistan Parliament Approved new Election Law
On 22 May The Lower House of the Afghan Parliament approved  two new Election laws , that will take effect in the elections next spring. The law contains 79 articles and 16 chapters.
EU Lifted Arms Embargo on Syrian Rebels
On 27 May European foreign ministers have lifted an arms embargo on Syria,, paving the way for individual EU member states to provide weapons to the Syrian rebels.After long and continuous hour of talk EU governments failed to agree on extending the arms embargo, which effectively ends the EU’s ban on supplying arms to the rebels.Some other restrictive measures against Syria , which include financing restrictions, travel bans and asset freezes is also supposed to be extended for a year, as there is a fear that the entire sanctions regime could fall over a failure to agree on the arms issue.
Australia the world’s happiest nation: OECD
The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development released its Better Life Index, which ranks the world’s most developed economies on jobs, income environment and health. Australia got first place for the third consecutive year.Sweden, Canada, Norway , Switzerland,United States, Denmark, The Netherland Iceland and United Kingdom were also in the top ten.In Australia 84 percent of the people accepted that their life is happy.So,Australia got the first place in Better Life Index.

INDIA & WORLD
US, India and Japan hold trilateral cooperation talks
On May 2 ,India, the United States and Japan held their fourth trilateral dialogue at the State Department in Washington, exchanging views on a wide range of regional and global issues of mutual interest.These discussions focused on the prospect of greater Indo-Pacific commercial connectivity and regional and maritime security, and cooperation in multilateral fora.The Indian delegation was headed by External Affairs Ministry joint secretaries D.B. Venkatesh Varma and Vikram Doraiswami.The group agreed to meet again in autumn in Tokyo to continue their deliberations.
17th India-Iran Joint Commission Meeting
The 17th Session of the India-Iran Joint Commission was held in Tehran on May 4, 2013.The Session was co-chaired by Dr. Ali Akbar Salehi, Foreign Minister of Islamic Republic of Iran and by Salman Khurshid, External Affairs Minister of India.The two sides discussed bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest.Both countries agreed to study the prospects of joint investment in both countries.The two sides also signed on MOU between the Government of India and the Government of Iran on cooperation in the field of water resources management.
India Tops ‘Born to Die same Day’ List
On 7 May According to the humanitarian organization Save the Children charity in an annual report entitled “State of the World’s Mothers ,India tops the list of babies that die on the day they are born.India has the dubious distinction of recording the most first-day deaths of children.Every year, 3,09,000 children die on the day they are born in India. It accounts for 29% of all the first-day deaths globally, the highest for any country.India is followed on this grim list by Nigeria (89,700 deaths, or 9 percent); Pakistan (59,800, or 6 percent); China (50,600, or 5 percent); and Democratic Republic of Congo (48,400, or 5 percent).
Finland Top Ranked in World To Be a Mother
On 8 May According to the annual report called ‘State of World’s Mothers 2013 was issued by an international NGO “Save the Children” , Finland has topped the list of countries where mothers enjoy the best conditions in the world, while India ranks a low 142nd, below China and Pakistan.The US places 30th this year while Pakistan was 139th on the list. China ranked at the 68th place.The top ten countries attained very high scores for mothers’ and children’s health, educational, economic and political status.The report was featured by a ranking list of Mothers’ index, showing the conditions of mothers in 176 countries .Among the reviewed countries, Finland was ranked the best country for being mothers followed by Sweden, Norway, Iceland while Democratic Republic of Congo was considered to be the toughest place.
Karnataka, Israel Signed Bilateral Agreement
On 8 May Israel and the Indian state of Karnataka have signed an R&D cooperation agreement. This is the first-ever such agreement between Israel and an Indian state. The agreement aims to further bilateral business, technology, and economic relations and sees Israel benefiting from Karnataka’s human resources and the Indian state benefitting from Israel’s innovations.
India Tops Cervical Cancer Deaths
On 10 May According to the Cervical Cancer Global Crisis Card report released by the Cervical Cancer-Free Coalition, with nearly 73,000 women dying every year, India now tops the world in cervical cancer deaths .India represents 26.4 per cent of all women dying of cervical cancer globally, with China, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Indonesia and Thailand also showing high death incidence.The cervical cancer kills an estimated 275,000 women every year .Cancer Registry Programme (NCRP) report in 2009 the number of cervical cancer cases were 101938 which has increased to 107690 in 2012.It is being estimated that the number of cervical cancer cases and deaths are estimated to increase by 2025 to 203,757 and 115,171, respectively.
Britain launched Super Priority Visa Service for Travellers from India
On 12 May 2013,  Britain launched super priority same-day visa service for urgent travellers from India. Britain launched this kind of service first time for India only . The super priority visa service was announced by British Prime Minister David Cameron during his visit to India in February 2013.
Google signs MoU to train engineering students in Andhra Pradesh
On May 14,Google India Private Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Andhra Pradesh government to train engineering students of Jawahar Knowledge Centres (JKC) in latest technologies like mobile and cloud computing.The MoU was signed between the IT minister and Nelson Mattos, vice president (Europe & Emerging Markets), Google Hyderabad. Google will also train the trainers/mentors of AP Society for Knowledge Networks (APSFKNW) and provide required software, services and training material free of cost.
India and Netherlands Signed MoU on Urban Planning
On 14 May India and Netherlands signed on  a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Technical Cooperation in the field of Spatial Planning, Water Management, and Mobility Management .The agreement was signed by Kamal Nath, Minister for Urban Development & Parliamentary Affairs, and Ms Melanie Schultz van Haegen, Minister for Infrastructure and Environment, Netherlands
UN General Assembly Approved Syria Resolution
On 15 May The U.N. General Assembly approved an Arab-backed resolution calling for a political transition in Syria and condemning President Bashar al-Assad Government for its increasing use of heavy weapons. A majority of 107 states voted to adopt the resolution. There were 12 votes against and 59 abstentions.Russia was fiercely opposed to the resolution, termed it as unbalanced and inadequate to address adequately atrocities allegedly committed by rebel groups.The resolution was drafted by Arab states who have supported the rebels.India abstained from voting on the non-binding resolution on Syria.Pakistan voted in favour of the resolution.
India Granted Observer Status in Arctic Council
On 15 May India granted observer status in the Arctic Council was successful along with that of five other countries, China, Italy, Japan, South Korea and Singapore at a meeting in Kiruna, Sweden.The council is made up of the eight Arctic nations are Canada, Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden and the United States.This membership will give India chances of navigation and oil and gas exploration.The European Union also applied as an observer, but its final status remained unresolved pending resolution of a dispute with Canada over trade in seal products.
India, UK Signed Agreement on Health Sector
On 19 May India and Britain have signed an agreement for cooperation in the health sector with specific focus on strengthening primary health care and technological development.The agreement was signed by Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare India, Ghulam Nabi Azad and Secretary of State for Health, UK, Jeremy Richard Hunt.
Indians Largest Foreign Born Group in London
On 20 May According to the Oxford University’s Migration Observatory latest study report , Indians have become the largest foreign-born group in London,  followed by residents born in Poland and Ireland.Migration Observatory, 262,247 persons born in India were living in London in 2011, which represents 8.8 per cent of all foreign-born residents in London.This accounts for 37.8 per cent of all residents that had been born in India resident in England and Wales in 2011.Other important foreign-born groups in London, with more than 100,000 residents, include those born in Ireland (129,807), Nigeria (114,718), Pakistan (112,457) and Bangladesh (109,948).
India – China Signed 8 Agreements
On 20 May India and Chine signed eight important agreements covering a wide range of issues like trade, culture and water resources. The agreements were finalised after delegation-level talks between Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Chinese counterpart Le Keqiang.
The list of eight agreements/memoranda of undrstanding (MoUs):-
(i) Protocol between India’s external affairs ministry and China’s foreign affairs ministry on Indian Official Pilgrimage (the Kailash Mansoarovar Yatra) to the Tibet Autonomous Region of China.
(ii) Work Programmes of the Three Working Groups under Joint Economic Group (JEG) between India’s commerce and industry ministry and China’s commerce ministry.
(iii) MoU on Buffalo meat, fishery products and Agreement on feed and feed ingredients between Indis’s Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority and The Marine Products Export Development Authority and Export Inspection Council and China’s General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ).
(iv) MoU between India’s urban development ministry and China’s National Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) on cooperation in sewage treatment.
(v) MoU between India’s water resources ministry and NDRC on cooperation in water-efficient irrigation.
(vi) MoU between the external affairs ministry and China’s State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television (SAPPRFT) on cooperation in mutual translation and publication of works, both classic and contemporary.
(vii) MoU between the water resources ministries of both countries for provision of hydrological information by China to india on the Yaluzangbu/Brahmaputra River during the flood season.
(viii) MoU between the foreign ministries of both countries to promote cooperation and linkages between the cities and states/provinces of the two countries.
Visa on Arrival facility to passengers travelling through RGIA
The central government has extended Visa-On-Arrival facility to international passengers travelling through Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA) in Hyderabad managed by the GMR Group.Visitors from 11 countries will be eligible to get a VoA from May 31 at RGIA.The Centre had introduced an Indian tourist VoA scheme on January 1, 2010 at certain airports which was initiated for citizens of five countries. Subsequently, a year later, the facility was extended to a total of 11 countries viz Finland, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Singapore, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Philippines, Myanmar and Indonesia.
US Senate Committee Approves Immigration Reform Bill
On 22 May The U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee has approved a massive immigration reform bill that grants 11 million undocumented immigrants currently living in the country an earned path to citizenship.The legislation was passed by a vote of 13 to 5 with three Republicans joining 10 Democrats to approve it.The bill, which requires major advances in border security and expansion of a comprehensive e-verify system for employers before any undocumented worker is allowed to pursue citizenship, will need 60 votes to pass the 100-seat Senate.
US and India Pledge To Collaborate on Combating Terrorism
On 22 May The US has pledged to collaborate with India on developing global approach to combat increasing terror threats and asked international community to take effective steps to eliminate sanctuaries and infrastructure that support terrorism.After talks between Home Minister Sushilkumar Shinde and US Secretary of Homeland Security Janet Napolitano, a joint communique said the two countries also agreed to enhance bilateral co-operation to combat terror financing and currency counterfeiting.
India, Japan to speed up talks on civil nuclear deal
On 29 May 2013,Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Japanese counterpart, Shinzo Abe decided to speed up talks on a civil nuclear deal to allow Japan to export nuclear reactors to India and to bolster maritime security cooperation at a time when China’s postures in the seas of the regional have caused concerns.A joint statement issued at the end of exhaustive talks between Singh and Abe said the two Prime Ministers reaffirmed the importance of civil nuclear cooperation between the two countries, while recognising that nuclear safety is a priority for both governments.In this context, they directed their officials to accelerate the negotiations of an Agreement for Cooperation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy towards an early conclusion
India and Thailand sign extradition treaty
On 30 May 2013,in a major boost to bilateral security cooperation, India and Thailand signed the much awaited extradition treaty after 20 years of negotiations.The MoU was signed by External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid and Thai Deputy Premier and Foreign Minister Surapong Tovichakchaikul.The treaty was signed in the presence of Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Thai counterpart Yingluck Shinawatra.The treaty provides the legal framework for seeking extradition of fugitive offenders, including those involved in terrorism, transnational crimes and economic offences among others.The two countries totally signed on seven pacts. They are extradition, education,financial intelligence mapping , geospatial technology applications , investigation of persons suspected of money laundering and criminal activity related to money laundering and terrorism financing.
UNESCO Declares Nicobar Islands as World Biosphere Reserve
On 31 May The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has declared and designated the Nicobar Islands in India as a world biosphere reserve .The International Coordinating Council of UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme added the Nicobar Islands to the list of eleven other sites which are designated as world biosphere reserves.Great Nicobar now 9th Indian reserve in Unesco world network.Member countries establish such reserves. UNESCO recognizes them under the programme to promote sustainable development based on local community efforts and sound science.

NATIONAL
National Urban Health Mission Approved By Cabinet
On 1 May The Union Cabinet approved the launch of the National Urban Health Mission (NUHM) to reduce rates of infant mortality, maternal mortality and for universal access to reproductive health care.The cost of the National Urban Health Mission for 5 years is 22507 crore rupees  and the Central government will share 16955 crore rupees.The mission will be implemented in 779 cities and towns each with the population of more than 50,000 has expected to cover about 7.75 crore people.The Cabinet also gave its nod to a bill which provides for confiscating property illegally acquired by corrupt public servants.
19.57 lakh Hectares of Forest Land Encroached
On 1 May According to the latest figures compiled by the Ministry of Environment and Forests reveal that unchecked encroachment on forest land is on the rise.According to the figures, over 19.57 lakh hectares of forest land is under encroachment in various parts of the country.Madhya Pradesh tops the list with 4.87 lakh hectares under encroachment. Followed by Assam (3.30 lakh ha), Andhra Pradesh (2.57 lakh ha) and Maharashtra (1.83 lakh ha).
Mobile subscribers largest in Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu
The country’s most populous state, Uttar Pradesh, accounts for the largest number of mobile subscribers in the country followed by Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Bihar, which together account for almost half of the total wireless connections.India, which is the world’s second largest mobile phone market in terms of subscribers, had a total of 861.66 million mobile connections as on February 2013, data from telecom regulator Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) showed.Uttar Pradesh has a total of 121.60 million mobile phone connections, while, Tamil Nadu has 71.81 million subscribers, according to the TRAI data.Maharashtra is at the third position, with a subscriber base of 67.73 million followed by Andhra Pradesh and Bihar at 64.12 million and 60.73 million, respectively.
Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant got Approval for Operations by the Supreme Court of India
On 06 May, the Supreme Court of India directed that the Kudankulam nuclear plant situated in Tamil Nadu could start its operations now. A bench of Justice K.S. Radhakrishnan and Dipak Misra issued the directions to the government on safety as well as security of the plant, along with its operations.
Govt Sets Up 39 Special NIA Courts Across The Country
On 7 May Minister of State for Home R P N Singh announced in the Parliament that under the National Investigation Agency (NIA) Act, the central government has set up the 39 special courts to take up terror-related cases.
Cabinet Approved Gandhi Heritage Sites Mission
On 16 May The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of the Gandhi Heritage Sites Mission with the objective of conserving and restoring the heritage sites associated with ‘Father of the Nation’.Gandhi Heritage Sites Mission will be assigned with the identification, collation and assessment of the information on Gandhi Heritage material, its management and deployment.
India’s First Yoga University in Gujarat
On 23 May Gujarat Chief Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the country’s first yoga university in Ahmedabad.Lakulish Yoga University, established by Life Mission Trust of Gujarat, is claimed to be the first ever such private sector self-financed institution in the country.

STATES
Congress Won in Karnataka Assembly Elections
On 8 May Congress has won 121 seats of the 223 seats on which polls were contested in Karnataka Assembly Elections , the elections were held on 5 May 2013. The ruling BJP and the JD-S won 40 seats each.The Karnataka Janata Party led by former Chief Minister B.S. Yeddyurappa bagged a mere six seats.The assembly has 224 elected and one nominated members. The election took place for 223 seats.
Tamil Nadu Bans Gutka Products
On 8 May The Tamil Nadu government banned the production, possession, distribution and sale of tobacco products such as pan masala and gutka in the state.Tamilnadu Government had constituted a separate department ‘Tamil Nadu Food Safety and Medical Administration,’ after the Centre announced the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Cabinet Approved 2 Major Ports in West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh
On 9 May the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the proposal of the Ministry of Shipping for setting up of two major ports.The ports will come up in West Bengal and Andhra Pradesh each, through a Public-Private-Partnership mode. As per the proposal, one port will be developed at Dugarajapatnam, Nellore district, in Andhra Pradesh and second port will come up at Sagar Island in West Bengal.

CONFERENCES
ADB’s 46th Annual Meeting Held in New Delhi
46th Annual Meeting of the Asian Development Bank (ADB) Board of Governors, held in Delhi, India, from 2 to 5 May 2013.Prime Minister Manmohan Singh , Finance Minister P. Chidambaram and ADB member board of directors and related financial institutions were attended the meeting.Asian Development Bank (ADB) announced that it is going to provide about 6 billion dollars loan to India over the next three years which was decided at the concluding day of the 46th annual meeting of the funding agency.

AWARDS & HONOURS
Indian Wildlife Biologist Aparajita Datta Honoured with the Whitley Award 2013
On 2 May An Indian wildlife biologist Dr. Aparajita Datta was honoured with the Whitley award, also known as Green Oscar, in London . Aparajita Datta, the Indian wildlife biologist was conferred with the award by Princess Anne, daughter of Queen Elizabeth, at the Royal Geographical Society in London for her efforts in order to save the endangered hornbills in Eastern Himalayas.Aparajita Datta is the head of the program for conservation of the hornbills in dense tropical forests of Arunachal Pradesh, at Nature Conservation Foundation. The tropical forests of Arunachal Pradesh are an abode to five hornbill species.
Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi Awarded with ‘ Judy Wilkenfeld ‘
On 2 May An Indian doctor of Mumbai’s Tata Memorial Hospital has been awarded with the prestigious Judy Wilkenfeld Award for International Tobacco Control Excellence for his innovative efforts in reducing tobacco consumption in India.He received the award by the ‘Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids’ on at a function in Washington.
Indian Police Unit in Congo Gets UN medal
On 17 May An Indian police unit in the Democratic Republic of Congo has received the United Nations Peacekeeping Medal.The 135 Indian Formed Police Unit-2 (FPU) was honoured with the medal as an appreciation for their service in Goma/North Kivu.
Malala Yousufzai Selected For Prestigious Global Leadership Award
On 20 May Teenager Pakistani activist Malala Yousafzai, who was shot at last year by the Taliban for advocating education of girls, has been selected for the prestigious Global Leadership Award this year.Malala will receive the award for her role as a global activist in advocating for educating and empowering girls worldwide.She was targeted for her outspoken views and advocacy on behalf of girls’ education.
Indian-American Girl Won America’s Top Young Scientist Award
On 20 May An Indian-American girl has invented a super-capacitor device that could potentially charge a cellphone in less than 20 seconds. The California teen has attracted the attention of tech giants Google for her potentially revolutionary invention which charges a phone in 20 seconds flat.The super-fast charging device has been dubbed a supercapacitor by 18-year-old Esha Khare, of Saratoga – as she took home $50,000 from the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair.
American Writer Lydia Davis won ” 2013 Man Booker International Prize “
On 22 May American writer Lydia Davis won 2013 Man Booker International Prize for her innovative and influential writing.This was the fifth Man Booker International Prize.Lydia Davis is a professor of creative writing at the University of Albany. She is also an accomplished translator. Her works include ‘The End of the Story’ and ‘Varieties of Disturbance’.The Man Booker International Prize recognises one writer for his or her achievement in fiction.Worth 60000 ponds, the prize is awarded every two years to a living author who has published fiction either originally in English or whose work is generally available in translation in the English language.
Carole King Became the First Woman to Receive Gershwin Prize
US singer-songwriter Carole King became the first woman to receive the Library of Congress Gershwin Prize for Popular Song.The President of America, Barack Obama conferred upon her, the Gershwin Prize that is given as a lifetime achievement in popular music.
APJ Abdul Kalam Received “Wernher Von Braun” Memorial Award
On 24 May United States based National Space Society’s (NSS) has conferred “Wrenher von Braun” Memorial Award upon former president APJ Abdul Kalam in San Diego .The award was conferred upon Kalam at International Space Development Conference. It was instituted by NSS, a non-profit organization and is dedicated to the creation of spacefaring civilization.The honour is given to recognize excellence in management and leadership in a space-related project, where the project holds significance.
Biological clock scientists share Shaw Prize
On 28 May ,three scientists whose groundbreaking studies using fruit flies helped to uncover the workings of the human biological clock were named the winners of the $1 million Shaw Prize .US scientists Jeffrey Hall, Michael Rosbash and Michael Young received the award “for their discovery of molecular mechanisms underlying circadian rhythms”.Biological rhythms govern behaviour in plants, animals and humans, from flowers opening during the day and closing at night, to sleep patterns and the effect of jet lag.

SPORTS & GAMES
PV Sindhu won Malaysian Badminton Grand Prix Title
On 4 May,India’s shuttler PV Sindhu won Malaysian Badminton Grand Prix  title after winning Malaysia Open women’s final match.In the final, top seed Sindhu defeated lower seed, Gu Juan of Singapore.This is the first Grand Prix title in her Career.
Aamir Won Asian Squash Championship Title
On 5 May Pakistan`s top seeded player, Aamir Atlas Khan won the Asian Squash individual championship for the first time in 14 years after he defeated Kuwait`s Abdullah Al Mezayan in straight sets in Islamabad.Pakistan had last won the Asian individual title in 1998, but since then has only been able to win the Asian team title in the last Asiad.
Ronnie O’Sullivan Won World Snooker Championship
On 7 May Ronnie O’Sullivan claimed his fifth World Snooker Championship crown after defeated Barry Hawkins at the Crucible in Sheffield.O’Sullivan is now a five-time Crucible champion after his wins in 2001, 2004, 2008 and 2012 to move within one of Steve Davis and Ray Reardon and two behind Stephen Hendry in the all-time list.
India Bagged 2 Silver and 7 Bronze Medals in Commonwealth Championship
India on 10 May 2013 finished their candidature in the tournament with a record haul of 2 Silver and 7 Bronze in the 19th Commonwealth Table Tennis Championships that concluded in New Delhi.
Men’s Singles :- Zhan Jian (Singapore) won the title after defeated Li Hu from Singapore in the final at New Delhi
Women’s Singles :- Mo Zhang (Canada) won the Women’s Singles title after defeated Yu Mengyu (Singapore) in the final.
Alonso Won Spanish Grand Prix Title
On 12 May Fernando Alonso of Spain won the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona .Kimi Raikkonen second, Felipe Massa secured third position.It was Alonso’s second win in Barcelona ,the first coming in 2006 and his seventh career podium on the Circuit de Catalunya.
Madrid Open Tennis Tournament 2013 Winners
Women’s Singles :- On 12 May Serena Williams of the United States bagged her 50th career Singles title.In the final She defeated Russian Maria Sharapova and got the title .
Men’s Singles :-Rafael Nadal from Spain won the Men’s Singles title after defeated  Swiss Stanislas Wawrinka in the final.
Women’s Doubles:-Anastasia Pavlyuchenkova ,Lucie Safarova won the Women’s Doubles title.
Men’s Doubles : Bob Bryan and Mike Bryan won their fifth Mutua Madrid Open doubles title . It was their 87th career trophy and fifth crown of the 2013 ATP World Tour season.
Barcelona Won Spanish League Title
On 12 May Barcelona won the Spanish league title (football) for the 22nd time after closest rivals Real Madrid could only manage a 1-1 draw with Espanyol.The title is Barca’s fourth in five seasons and the 22nd of their history. The last team other than Barcelona or Madrid to win the title was Valencia in 2004.Barcelona’s Lionel Messi finished the Spanish League as the top-scorer.He has already 46 goals, 12 clear of Cristiano Ronaldo, who finished second.
Rome Masters Tennis Tournament 2013 Winners
Women’s Singles :- On 19 May Serena Williams (USA) won her fourth consecutive title of the year after defeated Victoria Azarenka from Belarus in the Rome Masters final.This is the second Rome Open title won by Serena, before this Serena won the Rome title 11 years ago in 2002.
Men’s Singles :- Rafael Nadal from spain claimed his seventh Rome Masters title after defeated Roger Federar (Switzerland ) in the final
Mumbai Indians Won 2013 IPL Title
On 26 May Mumbai Indians won the Indian Premier League title for the first time , after defeated Chennai Super Kings by 23 runs in the final at Eden Gardens.
* Man-of-the-Match – Kieron Pollard (Mumbai Indians)
* Most Valuable Player – Shane Watson (Rajasthan Royals)
* Orange Cap ( (Highest Run Getters) – Michael Hussey (Chennai) : 733 Runs
* Purple Cap (Highest Wicket Takers) – Dwayne Bravo (Chennai) : 32 Wickets
* Best Youngest Player – Sanju Samson (Rajasthan Royals)
* Fair Play Award – Chennai Super Kings
* Best catch of the season – Gurkeerat Mann Singh (Kings Eleven Punjab)
Rosberg Won Monaco Grand Prix Title
On 26 May The Mercedes driver Nico Rosberg won the Monaco Grand Prix title.Rosberg’s team-mate Lewis Hamilton dropped from second to fourth after losing out through the safety car.Force India’s Adrian Sutil took fifth from McLaren’s Jenson Button.
China Won Sudirman Cup In Badminton
On 26 May China won their fifth consecutive Sudirman Cup and ninth overall, after defeated South Korea.At the Putra Stadium China’s World No. 1 Xu Chen and Ma Jin defeated their South Korean opponents Ko Sung Hyun and Kim Ha Na in straight games in the mixed doubles.In men’s singles, China’s Chen Long defeated South Korean Lee Dong Keun .In men’s doubles Chinese Liu Xiaolong and Qiu Zihan defeated South Korean players  Ko Sung Hyun and Lee Yong Dae.Huser Ayla, of Switzerland won the Women’s Singles after defeated Rankin Anna, from New Zealand Sudirman Cup is the world mixed team badminton championship which takes place every two years.

ECONOMY
RBI Cuts Repo Rate By 25 Basis Points
On 3 May The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) reduced the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) by 25 basis points, from 7.5 percent to 7.25 per cent with immediate effect as part of its annual monetary policy statement 2013-14.The reverse repo rate under the LAF also stands adjusted to 6.25 per cent. The RBI took this step to boost flagging economic growth.The cash reserve ratio (CRR) of scheduled banks has however been retained at 4 per cent of their net demand and time liabilities.
Asian Development Bank (ADB) to provide about 6 billion dollars loan to India
Asian Development Bank (ADB) on 5 May 2013 announced that it is going to provide about 6 billion dollars loan to India over the next three years which was decided at the concluding day of the 46th annual meeting of the funding agency. The bank is working on partnership strategy and is planning to maintain the level of lending to India.It is important here to note that India is the biggest borrower of ADB and ADB had extended a 2.4 billion dollars loan to India in 2012 across sectors like transport, energy, commerce, industry, trade and finance.
Delhi Tops in the Creative Index Report 2013
On 6 May According to the Creative Index Report 2013 report ,Delhi has been ranked as the most creative state in India with the greatest potential for success in today’s creative economy. The ranking is based on the population of creative class. This class is of individuals are often engaged in either complex problem solving or in the generation of new ideas, new technology, and new creative content.Chandigarh, Punjab, Kerala, Goa, Mizoram, Andaman & Nicobar Islands, Puducherry, and Maharashtra round out the top nine.
Mobile Phones To Out Number Human Population By 2014
On 12 May According to the International Telecoms Union’s (ITU) report ,The number of mobile phone subscriptions are set to outnumber the world’s population by the end of 2014.Mobile phone subscriptions will pass a whopping seven billion early in 2014.Currently, there are 6.8 billion mobile phone subscriptions while the world’s population is 7.1 billion. More than a third of the global population are online, the ITU World in 2013 report also found. The Commonwealth of Independent States, the alliance of countries formerly in the Soviet Union, is believed to have the highest mobile penetration with 1.7 subscriptions for every person.Africa has the least, with 63 subscriptions per 100 people.The report also found that 2.7 billion people, almost 40 per cent of the world’s population, are online.
Government Raises OBC Creamy Layer Income Limit to Rs 6 Lakh
On 16 May The Union Cabinet gave its approval for increase in the present income criterion of Rs. 4.5 lakh per annum for applying the Creamy Layer restriction throughout the country, to avail benefits of reservations in government jobs and admissions to central educational institutions.The decision came up in a view to increase the income limits in tune with the increase of the consumer price index. This would enable more people to take an advantage of reservation benefits that are extended to OBCs. Creamy layer is the income limit beyond which OBCs are not eligible for quotas
Gujarat Tops in Port Development Projects
On 24 May According to the Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (Assocham) “”Ports Development in India “” report ,While 21 PPP projects in the port sector worth over Rs.43,000 crore are under construction, eight projects worth about Rs.14,000 crore are under bidding.Gujarat gets first place , accounting for more than 50 per cent of the port projects completed in India during the last Plan. It has wrapped up 12 projects valued at Rs 12,453 crore, consolidating its presence in the Indian maritime map.Gujarat is followed by Odisha (2nd place) and Maharashtra (3rd place ), which account for a share of 16.9 per cent and 15.3 per cent respectively in the completed projects.Odisha saw two projects worth Rs 4,169 crore getting completed, while Maharashtra finished five projects worth Rs 3,772 crore.Andhra Pradesh (4th place) and Tamil Nadu (5th place) each with three projects under operation have garnered a share between 5-6 percent followed by Kerala (2.8 percent).
Biocon Chief Kiran Mazumdar Shaw in Forbes Philanthropy List
On 30 May According to the Forbes Asia magazine’s list of Asia-Pacific’s most remarkable “”givers”" , Biocon chief Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, P N C Menon, Vineet Nayar and Ronnie Screwvala named in 2013 year list of Asia-Pacific’s most remarkable givers.The annual list of Heroes of Philanthropy is compiled by Forbes Asia magazine. It features a total of 48 persons from the Asia-Pacific region which includes countries like China, Singapore, Hong Kong and Indonesia.Keeping into view Kiran Mazumdar’s work on improving cancer care and her pledge to give away 75 per cent of wealth she was listed as one of the major Philanthropist.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
China Launched Zhongxing-11 Satellite
On 2 May China successfully launched a communications satellite called Zhongxing-11 from Xichang Satellite Launch Center in southwest Sichuan province. The satellite was launched into its present orbit from Long March-3B rocket.
World’s First 3D Printed Gun Successfully Fired
On 4 May The world’s first gun made with 3D printer technology has been successfully fired in the US.The anti-gun campaigners criticised this project, while the law enforcement of Europe is monitoring the developments of this project.All 16 parts of the controversial gun, called the Liberator, are made from a tough, heat-resistant plastic used in products such as musical instruments, kitchen appliances and vehicle bumper bars.
The new Navy patrol ship  Rani Avantibayi
Indian Coast Guard Ship ‘Rani Avantibai’, the second Inshore Patrol Vessel (IPV) built by the Hindustan Shipyard Ltd for the Coast Guard. This was commissioned into Indian Navy in Visakhapatnam on 9 May 2013 by Minister of State for Defence Jitendra Singh in the presence of Director-General of Indian Coast Guard Vice-Admiral Anurag G.  ”Viranari Rani Avantibayi” is the inshore patrol vessels (IPV) in Madhya Pradesh for Ramgadh Coast Guard.This is used in Tracking thieves, coastal conservation, marine disaster relief efforts.This is the first in the series of five inshore patrol vessels (IPV) built by the Hindustan Shipyard Limited for the Coast Guard.
MiG-29K fighter planes commissions into Navy
On May 11,Defence Minister AK Antony  commissioned warfare aircraft MiG-29K Black Panther squadron into the Indian Navy.The commissioning was held at INS Hansa which would be the base for Black Panther squadron along with other fighter aircraft squadrons of Indian Navy. The squadron initially comprising 16 aircraft would be known as IANS 303.
U.S. Launched First Unmanned Aircraft From Carrier Flight Deck
The United States Navy launched an unmanned aircraft from a modern carrier flight deck for the first time ever on 14 May.The unmanned aircraft was the X-47B Unmanned Combat Air System demonstrator, and its first-ever launch from a modern aircraft carrier represents how manned and unmanned aircraft on carrier flight decks will be merged in the future.A mission operator aboard the USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) controlled X-47B, showing off how well it works within a carrier environment. It landed back at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in Maryland.
Rotavirus Vaccine Developed in India
India developed a Rotavac Vaccine to eradicate the  Rotavirus diarrhoea in infants.The Government of India’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and Bharat Biotech announced positive results from a Phase III clinical trial of a rotavirus vaccine.
First Boeing P-8I Aircraft joins Indian Navy
Indian Naval Aviation received a major fillip with the arrival of the first of eight Boeing P-8I Long Range Maritime Reconnaissance and Anti Submarine Warfare aircraft at Naval Air Station Rajali, Arakkonam, Tamil Nadu on 15 May 13. The P-8I aircraft, based on the Boeing 737-800(NG) airframe, is the Indian Naval variant of the P-8A Poseidon of the US Navy. The aircraft is equipped with both foreign as well as indigenous sensors for Maritime Reconnaissance, Anti Submarine operations and for Electronic Intelligence missions.
Scientists Converted Human Skin Cells Into Embryonic Stem Cells
On 15 May In a major medical breakthrough, researchers at the Oregon National Primate Research Center (ONPRC) have for the first time ever successfully converted human skin cells into embryonic stem cells , via a technique called nuclear transfer.Scientists for the first time converted human skin cells into embryonic stem cells.These embryonic stem cells are capable of transforming into any other cell type in the human body.This technique involves transplanting the nucleus of one cell, containing an individual’s DNA, into an egg cell that has had its genetic material removed.
BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile Successfully Test Fired
On 22 May India successfully test fired the 290-km range BrahMos supersonic cruise missile from Russian-built INS Tarkash off the coast of Goa.The launch was carried out by the Navy as part of Acceptance Test Firing (ATF) of the ship.INS Tarkash, which is an advanced Talwar Class frigate, was commissioned on 9th November, last year.The BrahMos missile jointly developed by India and Russia.
Indian Air Force Inducted Trainer AirCraft Pilatus PC-7
On 31 May Pilatus, PC 7 Mk II aircraft was formally inducted into the IAF by Jitendra Singh MoS, Defence at IAF’s premier Academy located at Dundigal, Hyderabad.This marked the first formal flight of the Basic Trainer Aircraft over the skies at the Air Force Academy in Hyderabad.The induction of PC-7Mk II as Basic Trainer Aircraft in Indian Air Force is a very important landmark in our nation’s quest to modernise its Armed Forces.

PERSONS IN NEWS
A) APPOINTMENTS
Sheikh Salman is New AFC President
On 2 May Bahrain’s Sheikh Salman Ebrahim Al-Khalifa was elected as the new president of Asian Football Confederation (AFC). He replaced disgraced ex-leader Mohamed Hammam.
Najib sworn in Malaysia’s PM
Najib Razak was sworn in as Malaysia’s Prime Minister for a second term on 06 May 2013 after his Barisan Nasional (BN, National Front) coalition won 133 of the 222 Parliament seats in 2013 election.Najib Razak became the sixth Prime Minister of Malaysia in year 2009.
Roberto Azevedo Appointed as WTO new Director General
On 8 May Brazil’s Roberto Azevedo has been named as the new Director General of the World Trade Organisation, the first Latin American to hold the post.He will take charge of his office from Pascal Lamy of France in the Geneva-based Body in September 2013.
Siddaramaiah Sworn in as Chief Minister of Karnataka
On 13 May Congress leader Siddaramaiah was sworn in as the 22nd chief minister of Karnataka by the Governor H R Bharadwaj.In year 1992 Siddaramaiah was appointed as Secretary General of Janata Dal.In Year 1994 became the Minister for Finance in the Janata Dal government headed by Deve Gowda.He served as a Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka twice, first in 1996 when JH Patel became Chief Minister and again in 2004 when JDS formed a coalition government with Dharam Singh.
Nirbhay Sharma Appointed Governor of Arunachal Pradesh
On 16 May Lieutenant General (retd) Nirbhay Sharma has been appointed as Governor of Arunachal Pradesh as the term of present incumbent Gen (retd) J J Singh ended in January 2013. He was appointed as Member of UPSC in May 2008 and after completion of his five year stint .He was also a part of the Airborne Assault Group, the first Indian Army Unit to enter Dacca (Dhaka) during 1971 war.
Shashi Kant Sharma is the new CAG
On 21 May Defence Secretary Shashi Kant Sharma was appointed as the new Comptroller & Auditor General (CAG) ,replaced outgoing Vinod Rai.Sharma, an IAS officer from 1976 batch of Bihar cadre, has earlier assumed various important offices during his tenure as Secretary in the Department of Financial Services and has spent over 10 years in the Defence Ministry in various capacities.The CAG is appointed for a term of six years or till the incumbent attains the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
Indian Origin Srinivasan Appointed as Top US Court Judge
On 23 May The United States Senate voted 97-0 to appoint Srikanth Srinivasan as a Judge of the prestigious US Court of Appeals.It is the highest judicial appointment to an Indian -American . Srinivasan has become the first Indian-American to be appointed to the court.He is the Principle Deputy Solicitor General and defends the policies of US President Barack Obama before the Supreme Court
Radha Krishna Mathur is new Defence Secretary
On 25 May Senior IAS officer Radha Krishna Mathur has been appointed as new Defence Secretary.He succeeds Shashikant Sharma who has taken over as Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG). A 1977-batch IAS officer of Manipur-Tripura cadre, Mathur was serving as Secretary (Defence Production) in the Defence Ministry.
Justice Raveendran is new NBSA Chief
On 25 May Former Supreme Court judge Justice R V Raveendran  has been appointed as the new Chairman of the News Broadcasting Standards Authority (NBSA) , the self regulatory initiative of the News Broadcasters Association (NBA).He succeeds justice (Retd.) J.S. Verma, chairperson of the NBSA, who passed away on 2013 April.NBSA is an independent redressal body set up by the News Broadcasters Association (NBA) and has leading TV news channels as its members.
Kushal Singh Appointed as the Chairperson of NCPCR
On 27 May Mrs. Kushal Singh has been appointed as the Chairperson of National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), by the Ministry of Women and Child Development.Mrs. Kushal Singh has held several high level posts in the Government of Rajasthan and the Central Government.She was the Chief Secretary, Government of Rajasthan.
PM Manmohan Singh elected to Rajya Sabha
On 30 May 2013 ,Prime Minister Manmohan Singh was elected to Rajya Sabha from Assam for fifth consecutive term.Dr Singh got 49 first preference votes, while the second Congress candidate bagged 45 votes and All India United Democratic Front (AIUDF)’s Aminul Islam, who polled 18 votes, lost  in the 126-member state Assembly.
B)RESIGNS
Union Railway Minister and Law Minister of India Resigned
On 10 May Union Railway Minister Pawan Kumar Bansal and Union Law Minister of India Ashwani Kumar resigned from their posts.Railway Minister PK Bansal resigned from his office since his nephew Vijay Singla was arrested for his alleged involvement of bribery of 90 lakh rupees from the Railway Board Member, with a promise of promotion. Ashwani Kumar the Union Law Minister submitted his resignation after being into attack by the opposition and the CBI affidavit submitted to Supreme Court for vetting up the CBI report in the Coal Block allocation scam.
C)DEATHS
ATP chairman Brad Drewett died
Brad Drewett(54), the former tour player who led the ATP as executive chairman and president since January 2012 died on 3 May 2013 . He helped in increasing the prize money at Grand Slam tournaments.
Giulio Andreotti, the former Italian Prime Minister died
On 6th May, the former Italian Prime Minister ,Giulio Andreott(94) was dies in Rome.He was one of the most powerful figures in the politics of the country after World War II.
Islamic scholar Asghar Ali Engineer Died
On May 14,Leading Islamic scholar, author and activist Asghar Ali Engineer, 74,  died at his Santacruz home in Mumbai. He was born in 1940 and completed his BSc in civil engineering from Vikram University.From 1980, he edited the journal named the Islamic Perspective and during 1980s he published a series of books on Islam and communal violence in India. His books were based on his investigations in the post-independent India. The USA International Student Assembly and the USA Indian Student Assembly honoured him with Distinguished Service Award in 1987.
Bengali filmmaker Rituparno Ghosh dead
On 30 May 2013,Award-winning Indian film director Rituparno Ghosh was died from a heart attack in the city of Calcutta.Ghosh directed 18 films in that 12 films got national awards.Ghosh began his remarkable journey by directing a children’s film “Hirer Angti” (“Diamond Ring”) in 1994, which won him an immediate recognition. He shot to fame after his next film “Unishe April” (“19 April”) won the national award in 1995.His other award-winning films include “Dahan”, “Asukh”, “Chokher Bali”, “Raincoat”, “Bariwali”, “Antarmahal”, “Noukadubi”, “Abohoman”, “Chitrangada” and Amitabh Bachchan starrer “The Last Lear”.
Academic Vina Mazumdar Dead
On 30 May 2013,Noted academic and a leading figure of India’s women’s movement, Dr Vina Mazumdar, died in New Delhi.Born in 1927 in a middle-class Bengali household in Kolkata, she did her schooling in the city and studied in Banaras Hindu University and Calcutta University, before going to Oxford in 1947, soon after independence. She went back to Oxford University later and received her D.Phil in 1962.
D)VISITORS
China Prime Minister Li Keqiang Visited India
China’s new Prime Minister Li Keqiang’s visited India on his first foreign trip to India from 19th to 21st  May 2013 since taking his office in March 2013. During the visit he met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and discussed India-China border issues , bilateral, regional and global issues of common interest.After the both countries signed on 8 agreements.The Chinese have also agreed to provide greater facilitation to Indian pilgrims on the Kailash Manasarovar Yatra.
Afghanistan President Hamid Karzai Visited India
Hamid Karzai , President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan visited India from 20-22 May, 2013.During the visit Hamid Karzai was on 20 May conferred an honorary doctorate degree by President Pranab Mukherjee at a professional university in Phagwara.He met Prime Minister Manmohan Singh at New Delhi and  discussed on various key bilateral and regional issues , the situation in the region in the backdrop of Afghanistan’s keenness to enhance defence cooperation with India and get supply of lethal and non-lethal weapons.
E)MISCELLANEOUS
First Woman Named To FBI’s Most Wanted Terrorist List
On 3 May Joanne Chesimard (also known as Assata Shakur), a member of the Black Liberation Army who killed a New Jersey state trooper 40 years ago and has since fled to Cuba,has been named as one of the FBI’s most wanted terrorists, making her the first woman ever to make the list.Chesimard was convicted for killing Foerster and sentenced to life in prison. In 1979 she escaped with the help of the Black Army Liberation and has been on the run ever since.The U.S. Justice Department announced a doubling of the reward for her capture to $2 million.
Ritankar Das is Century’s Youngest California University Topper
On 10 May An 18-year-old Indian-American has become the youngest graduate topper of the prestigious University of California in more than a century.Kolkata-born Ritankar Das, has been named as the University Medalist, the prize which is given to the year’s top graduating senior.Das has taken just three years to complete his studies with a double major in bioengineering and chemical biology and a minor in creative writing from the University of California, Berkeley.Further he is the first student from the College of Chemistry in 58 years, and the first ever from the Department of Bioengineering.
Sreesanth,Ajit Chandila and Ankeet Chavan were arrested
S Sreesanth and two of his Rajasthan Royals teammates Ajit Chandila and Ankeet Chavan were arrested by the Delhi police on charges of spot fixing in the ongoing Indian Premier League.
First Saudi Woman Ever Climbs Mount Everest
On 18 May Raha Moharrak has become the first Saudi Arabian woman to climb Mount Everest. Moharrak also became the youngest Arab to reach the 8,850-meter peak (29,035 feet). She was part of a group that included the first Qatari man and the first Palestinian man to reach the summit.
Indian Sisters First Twins To Climb Mount Everest
On 19 May Two Indian girls have scripted history by becoming the first twins ever to climb Mount Everest together.Tashi and Nancy Malik from Dehra Dun achieved this feat by successfully reaching the world’s highest mountain peak at 8,848 meters.The duo were among other record-makers including the first women from Saudi Arabia and Pakistan who climbed the Everest on 18 May.
Arunima Becomes First Indian Amputee To Scale Mt Everest
On 21 May Arunima Sinha, a former national level volleyball player who had lost one of her legs after being thrown off a moving train by, created history by becoming the first Indian amputee to conquer Mount Everest. Sinha reached the 8,848 metre-high summit of the world’s highest peak as a member of the Eco Everest Expedition from the Tata Group.Sinha, a resident of Ambedkar Nagar in Uttar Pradesh.Arunima successfully scaled the 6,622-metre-high Mount Chhamser Kangri of Ladakh last year, but her ultimate goal was to climb Mount Everest.
Yuichiro Miura, Became Oldest Man to Climb Mount Everest
Yuichiro Miura, the 80-year old mountaineer from Japan reached Mount Everest’s summit on 23 May 2013. With this, he became the oldest man to climb the highest mountain peak of the world. Yuichiro Miura climbed the Everest at the age of 70 and 75 as well.
Indian-origin Boy Won National Geographic Bee Contest
On 23 May Sathwik Karnik, a 12-year-old Indian-American boy, has won the prestigious National Geographic Bee 2013 after gruelling rounds testing his geographic knowledge about lions in Botswana, mountain ranges in Asia and port cities in England.To clinch the title, Karnik, 12, correctly named Chimborazo as the mountain in Ecuador that represents the farthest point from the Earth’s center.US.Karnik took home the spoils of the Bee prize that include a USD 25,000 college scholarship, an all-expenses paid trip to the Galapagos Islands, and a lifetime membership to the National Geographic Society.
Jiroemon Kimura Becomes ‘Last Living Man Born in 19th Century’
The oldest person in the world, Japanese Jiroemon Kimura,116 years Japanese man became the last male of the 19th century in the world. Jiroemon Kimura was given the title of last male alive to be born in the 19th century after the death of Barbados in the month of May 2013 at the age of 113 years and 90 days.Gerontolgy Research Group at University of California, Los Angeles found out that as far as female were concerned, there are in all 21 women born before 1 January 1901 and they are still alive.But amongst the male, Jiroemon Kimura is the only alive person of 19th century.Jiroemon Kimura was born on 19 April 1897.
Premlata becomes the first Indian woman to complete seven summits
Asian woman mountaineer Premlata Agrawal has become the first Indian woman mountaineer to scale the seven continental peaks after climbing Alaska’s McKinley Peak.With this, she became the first Indian woman mountaineer to step on the highest peak of North America.
Arvind Mahankali Won National Spelling Bee 2013
On 31 May Arvind Mahankali, a 13-year old Indian-American won the Scripps National Spelling Bee contest, as children from the community scripted history by dominating the prestigious competition for the sixth year in a row, grabbing top three slots this year.Arvind, from New York, won the contest by correctly spelling the German word ‘knaidel’ which means a small mass of leavened dough, overcoming his fear of German-derived words during his past four appearances at the contest.This is the sixth consecutive year that an Indian-American has won the contest, which was watched live by millions of people in the United States.

PLACES  IN  NEWS
Cyclonic Storm ‘Mahasen’ Hits Bangladesh
On 16 May The cyclonic storm ‘Mahasen’ hit Bangladesh’s southern Patuakhali coast with wind speed up to 90 kilometers per hour.More than 48 persons were killed as inflated waters coupled with gusts started ravaging parts of Patuakhali alongside the other areas adjacent to the Bay of Bengal in the region.The system is now located in the west-central bay and is likely to intensify further, move in northeast direction and cross the Bangladesh coast close to Chittagong.

ABBREVIATIONS
NESAC  ——- North Eastern Space Applications Centre
ACTO  ——–  Amazon Cooperation Treaty Organization
ILO    ——–     International Labour Organization
CNEN ———   National Commission for Nuclear Energy
CNEA ———-  National Commission of Atomic Energy
 IPV ———–  Inshore Patrol Vessel
BWF ———-  Badminton World Federation

BOOKS IN NEWS
Understanding Bhagat Singh ”  by Prof. Chamanlal released
Understanding Bhagat Singh a book by Prof. Chamanlal was released in the on 3 May 2013.Professor Randhir Singh, Eminent Thinker released the book at School of Social Sciences (SSS- I) Auditorium, JNU in New Delhi.The book Understanding Bhagat Singh has tried to explain the soul or spirit of Bhagat Singh like his principle of achieving objectives with dignity, honesty and fearlessness.
Gandhi’s Outstanding Leadership’ Book Released
On 27 May “Gandhi’s Outstanding Leadership “, written by former Indian diplomat-turned-Gandhian Pascal Alan Nazareth, was released at the Peking University’s Centre.Prof Shang Quanyu, a history professor with the South China Normal University, translated the book into Madarin.

COMMITTEES
G Padmanabhan Committee on Services for the Exporters
On 6 May A Reserve Bank of India (RBI) committee recommended setting up of the Indian Bill Payment System (IBPS) in the country.The committee chaired by G. Padmanabhan, Executive Director, RBI, has recommended a cap on interest margins charged by banks lending to exporters.The committee also recommended that export credit be allowed to be a part of priority sector lending (PSL) for all commercial banks, including foreign banks, for a period of three to five years.

IMPORTANT DAYS AND DATES
National Technology Day was Observed on 11 May 2013
National Technology Day was celebrated on 11 May 2013 as a symbol of quest for scientific inquiry, technological creativity and the translation of that quest in the integration of Science, Society and Industry. This day is also celebrated to honour technological innovations and their successful commercialization which makes fruits of research reach people at large.
Source : GKToday

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