Current Affairs Weekly PDF

Current Affairs Weekly PDF
Current Affairs Weekly PDF - December 2018 First Week (1-7)
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INDIAN AFFAIRS
8 States achieve 100% household electrification under Saubhagya
• 8 States Madhya Pradesh, Tripura, Bihar, Jammu and Kashmir, Mizoram, Sikkim, Telangana and
West Bengal have achieved 100% saturation in household electrification
under Saubhagya scheme.This announcement was made by RK Singh, Union Minister of State (IC)
for Power and Renewable Energy.
Government launches Bhasha Sangam to introduce school students to 22 Indian languages
• On 22nd November 2018, Government has launched ‘Bhasha Sangam’ under Ek Bharat Shreshtha
Bharat, a unique initiative to introduce school students to 22 Indian languages.
India, US air exercise to be held in West Bengal
• Air forces of the United States and India will take part in a 12-day joint exercise ‘Cope India 2019’
(CI19) at two air force stations in West Bengal from December 3 to 14, 2018.The previous edition
of this exercise was held in 2010.
4th India-Mozambique Joint Commission meeting held in New Delhi
• On 29th November 2018, India-Mozambique Joint Commission on Economic, Cultural, Scientific
and Technical Cooperation held its 4th session in Jawaharlal Nehru Bhavan, New Delhi.The
meeting was chaired by the External Affairs Minister of India, Sushma Swaraj, and the Minister of
Foreign Affairs & Cooperation of the Republic of Mozambique, Mr. Jose Condungua Antonio
Pacheco.
India, China ink protocol on Hygiene & Inspection requirements for exports
• On 28th November 2018, India and China signed a protocol on hygiene and inspection
requirements for the exports.The protocol was signed in New Delhi, during the visit of Chinese
Vice Minister, General Administration of Customs of China Hu Wei, who led a 6-member
delegation to India.
1st ever Indo-Indonesian business forum as part of Indo-Pacific strategies held in Andaman
• On 29th November 2018, the first ever India Indonesia Business forum (IIBF) was held at Port
Blair in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The forum was held as part of policies of Delhi and Jakarta
to extend their strategic partnership in the Indo-Pacific Region including Indian Ocean Region.
Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS) Organised ‘South Asia Regional Youth Peace
Conference’ in New Delhi
• On 28th November 2018, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti (GSDS), under the Ministry of Culture,
Government of India organised a 3 day ‘South Asia Regional Youth Peace Conference’ to mark the
beginning of celebration of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi in partnership with
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UNESCO- MGIEP and Standing Together to Enable Peace (STEP) and it concluded on 30th
November 2018.
National Festival for Children of Child Care Institutions (CCIs)- “Hausla 2018” held in NewDelhi
• The National Festival for Children of Child Care Institutions (CCIs) – “Hausla 2018” of the Ministry
of Women and Child Development (MWCD) was held at Jawahar Lal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi.
It was a 4 day event, from 26 to 29th November 2018. The theme for the event was “Child Safety”.
Manipur Sangai Festival-2018 (21st to 30th November)
• From 21st November to 30th November, every year Manipur Tourism Department organizes
annual cultural festival known as “Sangai Festival” which was previously known as “Tourism
Festival”.Theme:To project & showcase the tourism potential and promote “DESTINATION
MANIPUR”.
Indian Owl Festival, India’s first owl fest, held in Pune
• On 29th and 30th November 2018, the Indian Owl Festival, India’s first owl fest, was held at
Pingori village in Purandar taluka of Pune, Maharashtra.The festival was organised by Ela
Foundation.Out of the 262 species of owls that are found in the world, 75 are threatened.
Maharashtra approves 16% Maratha quota; 68% seats now reserved
• On 29th November 2018, Maharashtra assembly unanimously approved 16% reservation for
the Maratha community in jobs and educational institutes. It will come into force after
Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao clears the law.
NGT slaps Rs 5 crore fine on West Bengal government for failing to curb air pollution
• On 27th November 2018, The National Green Tribunal imposed a fine of Rs 5 crore to be
deposited with Central Pollution Control Board within two weeks on West Bengal which fails to
comply with the 2 years old directive to improve the air quality in Kolkata and Howrah.
Empathy Campaign launched to spread pan-India awareness about hepatitis disease
• On 26th November 2018, Institute of Liver and Biliary Sciences (ILBS) launched “Empowering
People Against Hepatitis: The Empathy Campaign” at Metro Bhawan in New Delhi to create
awareness about Hepatitis B and C disease throughout India.
2.75 lakh people avails CLSS under PMAY (U)
• On 29th November,2018,Around 2.75 lakh beneficiaries have availed a subsidy scheme under
the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban), with Gujarat topping the
chart. Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh had the most number of beneficiaries under the Credit
Linked Subsidy Scheme (CLSS) after Gujarat.
NITI Aayog organized dialogue on ‘Health System for A New India’, the first event of a dialogue
series for the 15 year vision document
• On November 30, 2018, NITI Aayog initiated a series of Development Dialogue through
its first event on “Health Systems for A New India: Building Blocks” in New Delhi.The conference
featured senior government functionaries, and eminent national and international experts in the
healthcare space.
Indian Railways launched a software to keep track of punctuality of trains
• On November 29, 2018, the Indian Railways launched a software named- ‘eDrishti’, that will
enable the Union Railway Minister Shri. Piyush Goyal to keep a track of punctuality of trains as
well as freight and passenger earnings related information from anywhere in the country.
Health ministry approved formula for compensation to patients who received faulty hip implants
by subsidiary of Johnson & Johnson Pvt Ltd
• On November 29, 2018, the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India approved
formula for compensation to the patients receiving faulty Articular Surface Replacement
(ASR) hip implants manufactured by M/s. DePuy International Limited, U.K (M/S Johnson &
Johnson Pvt Ltd). This was based on the recommendations of an expert committee, constituted by
the Ministry, under the Chairmanship of Dr. Arun Kumar Agarwal, that examined the issues
relating to faulty ASR Hip Implants.
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India has one-third of world’s stunted children: Global nutrition report

• India is facing a major malnutrition crisis as it holds almost a One-third of the world ‘stunted
children’, according to a Global Nutrition Report 2018.The report classifies India as
experiencing two forms of malnutrition anemia and stunting. Stunting or low height for age is
caused by long term insufficient nutrient-intake and frequent infections.
DAIC and JNU signed MoU to collaborate in research activities & policy formulation for Socio-
Economic Transformation & Sustainable Development
• On November 30, 2018, Dr Ambedkar International Centre (DAIC) and Jawaharlal Nehru
University signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for Socio-economic Transformation
and Sustainable Development.
15th India Health Summit held in New Delhi
• From 29th November to 30th November 2018, The leading industry body, Confederation of
Indian industry (CII) organised its Annual Flagship, 15th India Health Summit-2018 in New
Delhi. The theme of the summit this year is ‘Indian Healthcare – A Changing Paradigm’.
President of India inaugurated four day 13th CII Agro Tech India 2018
• On December 1, 2018, the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, inaugurated
the four day 13th edition of CII Agro Tech India-2018 in Chandigarh.The fair would conclude on
December 4, 2018. The theme for the 2018 edition was “Technology in Agriculture: Increasing
Farmer’s Income”.
Hornbill Festival of Nagaland commenced along with 55th Statehood Day; CM launched North-East
region’s 2nd Tourist Police
• On November 26, 2018, Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio launched the state Tourist Police at
Police Headquarter in Kohima.Nagaland became the second state in the North East to introduce
Tourist Police after Arunachal Pradesh.He also released the Tourist Police Handbook and
launched Nagaland Police FIR Mobile App.
Three services (navy, Army and Air Force) conduct joint drill off Goa and Karwar coasts
• From 17th November to 23rd November 2018, A large scale tri-service exercise involving the Navy,
the Army and the Air Force ‘Madad 2018’ was conducted at sea off Goa and Karwar coasts in a
move aimed at fine-tuning joint war-fighting capabilities and enhancing operational synergy.
India’s first indigenous film festival to be held in Odisha next year
• India’s first international indigenous film festival will take place in February next year in Odisha.
It will be an initiative of activist film collective ‘Video Republic’.
Tamil Nadu increased health insurance cover to Rs 5 lakh from Rs. 2 lakh
• On November 30, 2018, the Tamil Nadu government hiked the health insurance cover under
the Chief Minister’s Comprehensive Health Insurance Scheme (CMCHIS) from Rs two lakh to Rs
five lakh.
President of India Inaugurates the 2nd International Ambedkar Conclave in New Delhi
• On 30th November 2018 the President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, inaugurated
the 2nd International Ambedkar Conclave in New Delhi as part of the commemoration of
Constitution Day. The Constitution day or Samvidhan Divas and National Law day is celebrated
on 26th of November every year across the country
Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated second edition of Khasdar Mahotsav in Nagpur
• On 30th November 2018, Shri Nitin Gadkari, Union Minister of Shipping, Surface Transport and
Ganga Rejuvenation inaugurated the second edition of Khasdar Mahotsav at the Ishwar
Deshmukh College of Physical Education in Nagpur.
Union Agriculture Minister inaugurated Global Agriculture and Food Summit 2018
• On November 29 2018 the two-day Global Agriculture and Food summit had been inaugurated
by Union Agriculture Minister Radha Mohan Singh in Tana Bhagat Stadium, Khel Gaon at
Ranchi,Jharkhand. Governor of Jharkhand Droupadi Murmu was the chief guest for the closing
ceremony on November 30.
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FSSAI launches new campaign “Heart Attack Rewind” to eliminate trans fats by 2022
• On 30th November 2018 the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) launched a new
mass media campaign “Heart Attack Rewind”, for the elimination of industrially produced trans-
fat in the food supply and is a follow-up to an earlier campaign called “Eat Right” by FSSAI.
President of India presents Standards to 118 Helicopter Unit and Colours to Air Defence College
• On 29th November 2018, The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, presented Standards to
118 Helicopter Unit and Colours to Air Defence College in Guwahati, Assam.
Indo-US complete tactical exercises part of Joint Military drill Vajra Prahar 2018
• On 1st December 2018, The Special Forces of India and United States completed the final
maneuvers of their three-day tactical exercise called ‘Vajra Kayaa‘ which is part of their joint
military drill ‘Vajra Prahar 2018’ in Jaipur.
DAC approves procurements worth Rs 3000 crores, including BrahMos and ARVs
• On 1st December 2018, the Defence Acquisition Committee (DAC) approved military
procurements worth Rs 3,000 crore for the Indian armed forces which include BrahMos missiles
for two Indian Navy ships, and Armoured Recovery Vehicles (ARVs) for the Indian Army’s main
battle tank Arjun.
Bureau of Police Research and Development organized 2nd National Conference of Heads of
Investigating Agencies in New Delhi
• On 29th November 2018, Bureau of Police Research and Development will organize the 2nd
National Conference of Heads of Investigating Agencies in New Delhi. The theme of the conference
is “Capacity Building of Police Investigators in the Era of New Age Crimes”.
Government puts imports of gold dore in restricted category
• On 30th November 2018, The Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) which works under
Ministry of Commerce and Industry has put the imports of gold dore in restricted category. It
means that an importer now, needs a license to import this commodity.
Govt forms six-member panel headed by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar to look at selling
149 fields of ONGC, OIL to private companies
• A six-member committee has been constituted by the government which will look at selling as
many as 149 small and marginal oil and gas fields of state-owned ONGC and Oil India to private
and foreign companies to boost domestic output. The committee will be headed by NITI Aayog
Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar.
Centre proposes ban on use of animals in circuses, performances
• On 29th November 2018, the Centre has proposed ban on the use of animals for performances,
exhibition at any circus or mobile entertainment facilities.The environment ministry, in a draft
notification dated November 28, has invited comments from various stakeholders on the issue
within 30 days.
Train 18: India’s 1st engineless train crosses 180 kmph during trials
• On 2nd December 2018, India’s first locomotive-less train named Train 18, crossed the 180 kmph
speed limit during a test run in the Kota-Sawai Madhopur section. Train 18 will become India’s
fastest train when it is made operational.
Visit of Romanian Foreign Minister H.E. Mr. Teodor Melescanu to India
• From 24-27 November 2018, Foreign Minister of Romania, H.E. Mr. Teodor Melescanu visited
India. He visited India to commemorate 70 years of bilateral diplomatic relations with India and
five years since the Joint Statement on establishing an Extensive Partnership between India and
Romania.
Visit of Foreign Minister of Maldives H.E. Abdulla Shahid to India
• From 24-27 November 2018, Foreign Minister of Republic of Maldives H.E. Abdulla Shahid paid an
Official visit to India.He was accompanied by H.E. Ibrahim Ameer, the Minister of Finance, H.E.
Fayyaz Ismail, the Minister of Economic Development, H.E. Ahmed Khaleel, Minister of State for
Foreign Affairs and H.E. Abdul Ghafoor Mohamed, Foreign Secretary.
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Nagaland signs MoU with Estonian academy on e-governance

• On 30th November 2018, Nagaland government signed a five-year Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with e-Governance Academy of Estonia to provide advisory and technical knowledge for
setting up of e-Governance Academy of Nagaland (e-GAN).
Government holds Workshop on Developing ‘Ganga Museum’ in New Delhi
• On 29th and 30th November 2018, an international workshop on “Developing a Ganga Museum
Concept: Exchanging Experiences and Ideas between India and Europe” was held in New
Delhi.The workshop was organized by National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) along with GIZ
India
Maharashtra allows citizens to inspect government records under RTI
• On 26th November 2018, Maharashtra government issued a government resolution
allowing citizens to inspect records in district-level offices and local bodies throughout
Maharashtra under the Right To Information (RTI) for 2 hours every Monday.
J-K guv Satya Pal Malik launches AB-PMJAY scheme
• On 1st December 2018, Jammu and Kashmir Governor Satya Pal Malik launched the ambitious
“Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY)” at Teacher’s Bhawan in
Jammu. Recently the state received ‘Best Performing Large State’ award on account of high
reduction in Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) in a single year.
Indian Navy to conduct ‘Exercise sea vigil’ as a part of 2-month long Exercise TROPEX
• On December 4, 2018, Indian Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba announced conduction of a 2-month
long Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise (Tropex) in January 2019 to check on the
costal defense system. It would end in March 2019.
First 2-day India-ASEAN InnoTech Summit held in New Delhi
• On November 30, 2018,First 2-day India-ASEAN InnoTech Summit concluded in New Delhi.It
commenced on November 29,2018.The theme of the Summit was: ‘India ASEAN InnoTech
Summit: Accelerating towards innovative development‘.For More information: Click Here
Delhi government launched ‘One’ card for ease of commute on metro, buses
• On December 4, 2018, Delhi government announced the launch of a common mobility
card called ‘One’, with a tagline of ‘One Delhi One Ride’, for easy commute on public transport.It
was launched by Delhi Transport Minister Kailash Gahlot and DMRC managing director Mangu
Singh.
8 Session of the foreign Office Consultations between India and Sudan held in New Delhi
th
• On 3rd December 2018, 8th session of the foreign Office Consultation between India and Sudan was
held in New Delhi to review the entire gamut of bilateral relations that include political, trade,
investments, defence and security.
SHINYUU Maitri 18: First 5-day India, Japan air exercise commenced in Agra, Uttar Pradesh
• On December 3, 2018, the first bilateral air exercise 5-day “SHINYUU Maitri-18” commenced at
the Air Force station in Agra of Uttar Pradesh.The theme of the exercise is: ‘Joint mobility and
humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) on transport aircraft’.
Centre included Gangotri, Yamunotri,Amarkantak and Parasnath under PRASAD Scheme
• On December 4, 2018, the central government announced inclusion
of Gangotri and Yamunotri in Uttrarakhand, Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh and Parasnath in
Jharkhand under the scheme Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive
(PRASAD).For more information about PRASAD scheme: Click Here
Government approves Rs 850 crore investment to upgrade DD, AIR
• On 05th December 2018, Finance ministry has approved Rs 850 crore investment to upgrade
Doordarshan (DD) and All India Radio (AIR). The sanctioned amount will be invested over FY19
and FY20.
Two-day Conference on EU and India Partnership for Cultural Heritage Conservation
• On December 4, 2018, a two-day “Conference on EU-India Partnership for Cultural Heritage
Conservation” commenced at the National Museum Auditorium, Janpath, New Delhi enhance EU-
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India collaboration in the field of cultural heritage conservation.It concluded on December 5,

2018.
Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar chaired the 223rd meeting of the Central Board of Trustees, EPFO
• On December 4, 2018, Shri Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Minister of State (I/C) for Labour &
Employment chaired the 223rd meeting of the Central Board of Trustees (CBT), EPFO in New
Delhi.The Central Government reconstituted the CBT, EPFO under section 5A of Employees’
Provident Fund & Miscellaneous Provision Act, 1952.
2nd meeting of the ‘NITI Forum for the North East’ held in Assam
• On December 4, 2018, the second meeting of the newly constituted ‘NITI Forum for North
East’ commenced in Guwahati, Assam. The meeting mainly focused on issues pertaining to five
critical sectors – Tourism, Bamboo, Dairy, Fisheries and Tea.
‘PEETHA’: programme to create awareness and promote transparency launched by Odisha
government
• On December 4, 2018, Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik launched a new programme to
improve transparency in the distribution of individual and social benefits called- the Peoples
Empowerment Enabling Transparency and Accountability or PEETHA.
Three day 80th Session of Policy Commission of World Customs Organization organized by CBIC
held in Mumbai
• On December 5, 2018, the three day 80th session of Policy Commission of World Customs
Organisation concluded in Mumbai. It started on December 3,2018. It was inaugurated by Finance
Minister, Arun Jaitley, and was attended by 102 delegates from 33 nations.
Ministry of Railways signed MoU with Madame Tussauds Wax Museum
• On 4th December 2018,Ministry of Railways’ National Rail Museum (NRM) and Madame Tussauds
Wax Museum, New Delhi, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to provide an amazing
discount offer to Delhi NCR tourists.This first time ever,public-private museum collaboration.
Sweden and India inks pact to bolster renewable energy technologies
• On 3rd December 2018, Sweden and India signed Two MoUs in the Renewable Energy sector to
enhance the technology and bring in power efficiency.The MoUs were signed on the sidelines of
inauguration of the ‘Sustainability by Sweden – Showroom India’ themed as “Sustainability is
Everybody’s Business”by Swedish Energy, Agency Business Sweden and Embassy of Sweden
under the Sweden India Nobel Memorial Programme.
Delhi government launched ‘Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana’ for 77, 000 senior citizens
• On December 6, 2018, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched a 3 day, 2 night free
pilgrimage scheme,consisting of five religious circuits, for senior citizens named-
the ‘Mukhyamantri Teerth Yatra Yojana’.The Delhi government has also signed a MoU with
the Indian railways to cater to the pilgrims availing the scheme.
First ever Swadesh Darshan Project in Nagaland inaugurated by CM Rio
• On December 5, 2018, Chief Minister of Nagaland, Shri Neiphiu Rio,inaugurated the first
ever Swadesh Darshan Project in Nagaland named-“Development of Tribal Circuit: Peren-
Kohima-Wokha Project” It was sanctioned by the Ministry of Tourism in November 2015 for Rs.
97.36 Crores.
SMART initiative for agribusiness,rural transformation launched by Maharashtra CM Fadnavis
• On December 6, 2018, Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis launched a unique initiative
called- State of Maharashtra’s Agribusiness and Rural Transformation or “SMART“.
This will be implemented in 10,000 villages with an objective to achieve sustainable farming
within the next 3 years.
Punjab Cabinet has Approved 20 DCCBs to merge with the PSCB
• On 3rd December 2018, the Cooperative department of Punjab has decided to merge 20 District
Central Cooperative Banks (DCCBs) with the Punjab State Cooperative Bank (PSCB).The aim of
the merger is to strengthen the state’s rural credit system and facilitate farmers taking credit from
cooperative banks.
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INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
EU sets goal to be ‘climate neutral’ by 2050
• The European Union sets a goal to become the first major economy to be ‘Climate Neural’ by 2050
after that the emissions of greenhouse gases needs to be offset by planting trees or burying the
gases underground.
3rd ASEAN – India Business Summit (AIBS) held in Malaysia
• On 27th November 2018, the 3rd ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) India Business
Summit was organised by the ASEAN India Business Council (AIBC) Malaysian Chapter in Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia. Spice Garden group of restaurants owner Pardeep Batra was awarded
the special ASEAN – India Achievement award for the businessman of year.
India’s chairmanship of Kimberley Process, from January 2019, announced in the 15th KPCS 2018
• India took over the chairmanship of Kimberley Process from EU during the four-day 15th
Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) Plenary 2018, that was held in Brussels, Belgium,
from 12th-16th November 2018.The chairmanship of the KPCS for India would be operation
from January 2019.
India has highest number of children, teens with HIV in South Asia
• On 30th November 2018, The report titled ‘Children, HIV and AIDS: The World in
2030’ from UNICEF (United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund ) was released
ahead of AIDS day estimated that 1,20,000 children and adolescents aged 0-19 were living
with HIV in India in 2017, the highest number in South Asia.
Australia the first country in the World to recognize ‘orphanage trafficking’ as slavery
• On November 30, 2018, Australia became the first country in the world to criminalize the act of
falsely inducing children into orphanages as a form of slavery.Evidence shows that about 80 per
cent of these children have family who could care for them if they had the right support.
UK amended weapons bill to ensure the right to possession of kirpans by Sikhs
• On November 30, 2018, the UK government amended the Offensive Weapons Bill 2018 to ensure
right to possession of kirpans by Sikhs.The move was led by the first female Sikh MP in the House
of Commons, MP Preet Kaur Gill.
Asia-Pacific Summit 2018 in Nepal
• On December 1 2018 two day Asia Pacific Summit-2018 has started in Kathmandu, the capital of
Nepal.This summit was organized by South Korea-based Universal Peace Federation and
supported by the Government of Nepal. Theme 2018 is “Addressing the Critical Challenges of Our
Time: Interdependence ,Mutual Prosperity, and Universal Values”.
Climate Vulnerable Forum meeting is being held in Marshall Islands
• The first entirely online Heads of Government level intergovernmental meeting of Climate
Vulnerable Forum (CVF) is being held in the Marshall Islands in order to raise a concern about
Global warming and set a target to keep the rising temperature beyond 1.5 degree Celsius.
Overview of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s 3-day visit to Argentina to take part in 2-day
13th G20 Summit
• On November 29, 2018, Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarked on a 3-day visit to Buenos Aires,
Argentina for the commencement of the 2-day 13th G20 Summit. The theme of the 2018 edition of
the Summit was: “Building Consensus for Fair and Sustainable
Development”..………………………..Click here to Read more.
UAE passport topped the Global Passport Power Rank 2018
• On December 4, 2018, Arton Capital launched the passport index named – Global Passport Power
Rank 2018, in which United Arab Emirates (UAE) topped the charts,among 197 nations,as the
nation having the most powerful passport. India stood at 66th position.For more
information: Click Here.
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BANKING & FINANCE

RBI moves to ease liquidity for non-banking finance firms
• The Reserve Bank of India in a move to make more liquidity available to non-banking finance
firms (NBFCs), has issued a circular to relax the securitization norms by relaxing the Minimum
Holding Period (MHP) requirement.
20-character LEI code mandatory for market participants regulated by the Central Bank
• On December 1, 2018, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) made Legal Entity Identifier (LEI) code
mandatory for all market transactions regulated by the central bank.
Interest subsidy for MSME sector exporters increased to 5 per cent
• On November 29, 2018, Reserve Bank of India increased the interest subsidy, called the Interest
Equalisation rate, to 5 per cent from 3 per cent on post and pre-shipment export credit for MSME
sector. The subsidy is given under ‘Interest Equalisation Scheme on Pre and Post Shipment Rupee
Export Credit’ and will be applicable from November 2, 2018.
Net stable funding ratio (NSFR) norms for banks to be operational from April, 2020: RBI
• On December 1, 2018, RBI announced the date of its implementation of the Net Stable Funding
Ration (NSFR) norms to be from April 1, 2020. The NSFR norms were thus issued and from the
aforesaid date the NSFR norms would be active in the Indian banking sector.
SBI increased interest rates for fixed deposits less than Rs. 1 crore
• On November 28, 2018, State Bank of India (SBI) revised its fixed deposit (FD) interest rates on
select maturities by 0.05-0.10 per cent or 5-10 basis points. The hiked interest rates are on
deposits below Rs. 1 crore.For more information: Click here
ECB launch TIPS instant payment system
• On 30th November 2018, the European Central Bank (ECB) launched a new pan-European smart
phone payment system called TARGET Instant Payment Settlement (TIPS) in Rome. The platform
was developed by the Banca d’Italia – in cooperation with the central banks of Germany, France
and Spain.
World Bank unveils USD 200 bn in climate action investment for 2021-25
• On 3rd December 2018 , the World Bank unveiled USD 200 billion in climate action investment
for 2021-25, adding this amounts to a doubling of its current five-year funding.The move
coincides with a UN climate summit in Katowice (Poland).The breakdown of 200 billion dollars
would comprise approximately 100 billion in direct finance from the World Bank.
Government of India and Asian Development Bank inked $85 Million loan to support Odisha Skill
Development Project
• On December 3, 2018, the Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) signed
a $85 million loan in New Delhi, under the Odisha Skill Development Project to promote skill
development in Odisha.
5th Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy released by Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
• On December 5, 2018, RBI released its 5th Bi-monthly monetary policy produced by the Monetary
Policy Committee chaired by RBI Governor Dr. Urjit Patel. In the last policy announced in October,
RBI had kept all the policy rates unchanged.……Click here to Read more
Overall Outlook suggests the following:
Policy Rates
Repo Rate 6.50%
Reverse Repo rate 6.25%
Marginal Standing Facility 6.75%
(MSF) rate
Bank Rate 6.75%
Reserve Ratios
CRR 4%
SLR 19.50%
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CASHe partners with Mswipe to offer instant loans

• On 3rd December 2018, digital lending company for young salaried millennials CASHe partnered
with Mswipe,India’s leading mobile Point-of -Sale (POS) payment services provider,to launch
the CASHe emi Mcards for its customers which will provide hassle-free loan experience at the
point-of-sale.
Paisabazaar.com launches India’s first chance of approval feature for lending products
• India’s largest online marketplace for financial products, Paisabazaar.com has launched a first of
its kind feature ‘Chance of Approval’, that will help loan applicants choose their most-suited
lender on its platform in India.
ICICI Securities launched Instant fund credit feature to get cash within 30 minutes
• On December 3, 2018, ICICI Securities (ISec), a brokerage firm, launched the ‘eATM’ instant fund
credit feature to enable real-time payments in bank accounts upon selling stocks in Bombay
Stock Exchange (BSE).
RBI laid down norms to draw at least 40% of capital for large borrowers
• On December 5, 2018, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued guidelines for enhancing the credit
discipline of large borrowers by allowing a minimum of 40% of the working capital to be
drawn.According to the guidelines, large borrowers having working capital of Rs. 150 crores and
above can draw a minimum loan component of 40% of the capital.
HDFC ERGO Announces Corporate Agency Tie-up with Federal Bank
• On 05th December 2018, HDFC ERGO General Insurance Company, India’s leading private sector
general insurance company and Federal Bank, announced tie-up for the distribution of HDFC
ERGO’s range of non-life insurance offerings to the customers of the Bank through its network
branches.
BUSINESS & ECONOMY

Indian economy likely to grow at 7-7.4 per cent in FY19
• On 29th November 2018, economic policy think-tank, National Council of Applied Economic
Research (NCAER) said that Indian economy is projected to grow at 7-7.4 % in the current fiscal
citing comfortable agricultural sector outlook and a marked improvement in the external sector.
India is the fastest growing e-commerce market: Report by Bain & Company
• Consultancy firm Bain & Company’s latest report states that, India has the fastest growing online
retail market among top global economies. According to the report, India’s online retail market
had a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 53% from 2013 to 2017.
India’s economy grows at 7.1 per cent for 2nd part of 2018-19
• On 30th November 2018, Central Statistics Office (CSO) released a report showing that Indian
Economy grew at 7.1 per cent in the second quarter (July-September) of 2018-19 which is lower
than the first quarter in which GDP growth was 8.1 per cent.
Avoidance of double taxation treaty between India, HKSAR became effective
• On November 30, 2018, a double taxation avoidance agreement came into effect
between India and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) of People’s Republic.
An agreement was originally signed on March 19, 2018 between the 2 countries.
GDP in India will grow 7.2% in the year ending March 2019, says Moody’s
• On 03rd December 2018, Moody’s expects the real gross domestic product (GDP) in India to
grow 7.2 per cent in the year ending March 2019 and 7.4 per cent in the following year.Earlier
Moody’s Investors service growth prediction for India was 7.5% in 2018-19, 7.5% in 2019-
20 released on 23rd August,2018.
India’s growth forecast cut by 10 bps to 7.4% on weakening global growth
• On December 3, 2018, CRISIL cut India’s growth forecast for current fiscal, by 10 basis points,
to 7.4 per cent citing weakening global GDP and trade growth as the reasons for the decline. Due
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to lower global trade and GDP growth, emerging economies such as India would face a downward
growth.
Economic Development board (EDB) signed MoU with the Maharashtra Government to promote
Fintech
• On 4th December 2018, The Economic Development Board (EDB), the investment promotion arm
of the Kingdom of Bahrain signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Maharashtra
Government to promote FinTech in their respective markets.
Credit to MSEs up 5 times to Rs 1.23 lakh crore, post-GST: SBI Report
• On 04th December 2018, credit to micro and small enterprises (MSEs) has increased 5 times to
Rs 1.23 lakh crore in the post-GST period, according to a SBI research report. The 15-month post-
GST period increased 5 times to Rs.1.23 lakh crore, compared to Rs.25,700 crore during the
corresponding pre-GST period.
India records 2nd highest Fintech adoption rate
• On 04th December 2018,According to EY FinTech Adoption Index, India has the second highest
FinTech adoption rate among digitally active consumers at 52 percent, only second
to China at 69 percent.
Number of patents granted by India shot up by 50% in 2017: UN
• On 04th December 2018, according to the UN’s (United Nations) World Intellectual Property
Organisation (WIPO) The number of patents granted by India shot up by 50 per cent in 2017.The
WIPO’s “World Intellectual Property Indicators 2018” report released in Geneva.
Fitch Ratings lowered India’s GDP growth forecast to 7.2% on higher financing costs
• On December 6, 2018, Fitch Ratings, in its report- Global Economic Outlook, slashed India’s GDP
growth forecast to 7.2 per cent for current fiscal, even lower than RBI’s projection of 7.4%.Indian
economy grew 6.7 per cent in 2017-18 fiscal.
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

Indian Navy commander (Pilot) Vijay Varma,Captain (Pilot) P Rajkumar win Asian of The Year
award for Kerala flood rescue
• On 28th November 2018, An Indian Navy Commander (Pilot) Vijay Varma and Captain (Pilot) P
Rajkumar were honoured at the 7th ‘Asian of The Year’awards acknowledging their selfless
service and bravery in rescue operations during the devastating floods in Kerala. The winners
were announced at the Straits Times Global Outlook Forum 2019 held in Singapore.
UNESCO lists wrestling, reggae and raiho-shin rituals as global treasures to be preserved
• On 29th November 2018, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO) added Jamaican reggae, Georgian wrestling and Japanese raiho-shin rituals as among
the new elements to its list of “intangible heritage” for the world to treasure and improve the
visibility of often little-known and understood arts traditions.
Myanmar Leader Suu Kyi was the First Leader to Be Stripped Of Freedom Of Paris Award
• On November 30, 2018, Mayor Anne Hidalgo of Paris, France revoked the honour of Freedom of
Paris Award from the Myanmar Leader Aung San Suu Kyi due to failure on
Myanmar’s Rohingya minority issue.
Abhinav Bindra to get the Blue Cross, highest shooting honour by ISSF
• On November 30, 2018, India’s Olympic and world champion shooter Abhinav Bindra was
conferred the Blue Cross, the ISSF’s highest award at the General Assembly in Munich.
He is the first Indian to be awarded the Blue Cross.
Four Indian-origin women among Forbes list of top female US tech moguls
• Four Indian-origin women have been named by Forbes among America’s top 50
female technology moguls, a list that includes tech heavyweights IBM CEO Ginni
Rometty and Netflix executive Anne Aaron.
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Swachhta Pakhwada of Ministry in Civil Aviation, Government of India: Pawan Hans Ltd, Airports
Authority of India and Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi awarded the 3 best performing
organizations
• From 1st November 2018, a 15 days Cleanliness Drive: Swachhta Pakhwada was observed by
Ministry of Civil Aviation to highlight the importance of cleanliness to all the employees .The event
was concluded on 15th November 2018.Mr. Suresh Prabhu, Minister of Civil Aviation presented
the award to 3 best performing organizations which are Pawan Hans Ltd, Airport Authority of
India (AAI) and Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Uran Akademi (IGRUA).
‘Outstanding Case Writer’ award presented to ICFAI Business School
• On 16th November 2018, The Highly prestigious “Outstanding Case Writer’ award” was presented
to ICFAI Business School by Mr. Richard McCracken, Director of a UK- Based independent home of
the case method “The Case Centre” at the inaugural Case Collection Managers Meet held in Park
Hyatt, Hyderabad.
Vashkar Bhattacharjee from Bangladesh and Tencent(Private sector enterprise) from China to
receive UNESCO/ Emir Jaber al Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah Prize for Digital Empowerment of
Persons with Disabilities
• On 3rd December 2018, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO) had awarded Disabilities’ Advocate from Bangladesh, Vashkar Bhattacharjee and
Private sector enterprise of China, Tencent with UNESCO/Emir Jaber al Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah
Prize for Digital Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities at a ceremony organized on
International Day of Persons with disability at UNESCO headquarter in Paris, France.
Delhi Minister Imran Hussain gets PETA ‘Hero to Animals’ award for banning Chinese manjha
• On 1st December 2018, Mr. Imran Hussain, Delhi Minister of Food Supplies, Environment and
Forest was awarded “Hero to Animals” by People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) for
banning Chinese Manjha ( A thread use in Kites) in Delhi.
Kohli honoured by Bradman Museum ahead of India-Aus Test
• On 2nd December 2018, the Indian cricket team captain Virat Kohli has received a special honour
as a signed jersey that he donated after scoring his hundred in the fourth Test at the Sydney
Cricket Ground (SCG) during India’s tour of Australia in 2014-15 has been placed next to Sachin
Tendulkar’s portrait at the Bradman Museum.
Tuhin becomes first Indian to scale Sahayadri mountain range
• On 3rd December, 2018 Tuhin Satarkar, became the first Indian to climb three routes in the
treacherous Sahayadri mountain range in 12 days, from November 16 to 28.Tuhin took to the
vertical sport at the age of eight and has been pushing boundaries ever since.
2018 Ballon d’Or:Luka Modric and Ada Hegerberg win awards
• On 3rd December 2018, an annual football award ,2018 Ballon d’Or Award was functions held
in Paris (France)..Real Madrid’s Croatia midfielder Luka Modric was named winner of the 2018
Ballon d’Or.Ada Hegerberg was named as the First Recipient of Ballon d’Or Féminin award 2018.
Eliud Kipchoge and Caterine Ibarguen named IAAF athletes of the year
• On 4th December 2018, Kenya’s Marathon world record holder Eliud Kipchoge and Colombian
jumper Caterine Ibarguen was awarded with Male and Female World athlete of the year for the
first time at the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) Athletics Awards
2018 held at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.
Sahitya Akademi Awards 2018 announced in 24 languages
• On December 6, 2018, the Sahitya Akademi announced its annual Sahitya Akademi
Awards in 24 languages. It consists of 7 books of poetry, 6 novels, 6 short stories, 3 of literary
criticism and 2 of essays. …. The List of Awardees are given here
IIT-Mandi professor wins Innovative Young Biotechnologist Award
• Dr. Rajanish Giri,an assistant professor from the Indian Institute of Technology-Mandi (IIT-
Mandi),has been awarded the Innovative Young Biotechnologist Award (IYBA) 2018 for his
proposed innovative idea on Zika virus Capsid Folding and inhibitor discovery.
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Forbes List 2018 released by Forbes India

• On December 5, 2018, Forbes India released Forbes List 2018 containing ranking influencing
people in various genres according to their net worth.There are 2 lists that have been
released.They are Forbes India rich list 2018 consisting of 100 richest Indians For More
information: Click Here and Forbes India 2018 Celebrity 100 For more information: Click Here.
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNS

World Gold Council appoints David Tait as next CEO
• On 28th November 2018, the market development organization for the gold industry, The World
Gold Council announced the appointment of David Tait who has a very successful career in the
financial services industry as the incoming Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Dr. Ajay Bhushan Pandey takes over as Revenue Secretary
• On 30th November 2018, UIDAI(Unique Identification Authority of India) CEO Dr. Ajay Bhushan
Pandey took over as the Revenue Secretary in the Finance Ministry after Hasmukh
Adhia retires.Dr. Pandey would continue to head the Unique Identification authority
of India (UIDAI) as its CEO.
Georgia elects its first female president Salome Zurichishvili
• 66 Years old Salome Zurabishvili has won Georgia’s presidential election, becoming
the first woman to hold the office in the country. She will take oath for the office on 16th December
2018.
Paul Polman step down as Unilever’s CEO
• Unilever’s Chief Executive Paul Polman will step down next month after ten years in the job. The
Anglo-Dutch group was forced to ditch a controversial post-Brexit plan to move its headquarters
from London to the Rotterdam, Netherlands.Mr Polman will be succeeded by Alan Jope.
Raninder Singh becomes first Indian to be elected ISSF’s vice-president
• On 1st December 2018, Raninder Singh became the first Indian to be elected as the vice-president
of the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF). The 51-year-old Raninder is currently the
president of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI).
NGT appoints former HC judge U C Dhyani to monitor Ganga cleaning
• On 30th November 2018, The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has appointed former Uttarakhand
High Court judge, Justice U C Dhyani, as head of the three-member committee to oversee
rejuvenation work of the Ganga River. Other Members of the committee include nominee
of Central Pollution Control Board and nominee of IIT Roorkee.
Andrés Manuel López Obrador became first leftist president of Mexico
• On Dec.2 2018 Andrés Manuel López Obrador sworn in as the First Leftist President of Mexico.He
won an election which was conducted on July 2018.
AS Rajeev appointed MD & CEO of Bank of Maharashtra
• On December 1 2018, a present Executive Director of Indian Bank Mr. AS Rajeev became
Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of Bank of Maharashtra.He had worked in Syndicate
Bank, Vijaya Bank and Indian Bank with three decades of professional experience.
Pawan Singh is the first Indian to be elected in ISSF’s judges committee
• On 2nd December 2018, Pawan Singh became the first Indian to be elected as one of the 7
members of the Judges Committee of the International Shooting Sports Federation (ISSF). Pawan
Singh is also the Joint Secretary General of National Rifle Association of India (NRAI). He was a
former coach of the Indian shooting team.
Ravindra Kumar Verma assumes charge as Technical Member in the Appellate Tribunal for
Electricity
• Ravindra Kumar Verma has taken charge as Technical Member in the Appellate Tribunal for
Electricity (APTEL), Ministry of Power, for a period of 3 years. Justice Manjula Chellur,
Chairperson of APTEL, administered the Oath of Office and Secrecy to Ravindra Kumar Verma.
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Jon Ridgeon Appointed CEO of IAAF

• On 3rd December 2018, the International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) announced
the appointment of Jon Ridgeon as its new CEO following approval by the IAAF Council on the first
day of its 215th Council Meeting in Monaco. He succeeds Olivier Gers, who resigned in March.
Ajay Narayan Jha takes over as Finance Secretary
• On 3rd December 2018, Ajay Narayan Jha, the current expenditure secretary, in the Ministry of
Finance has been appointed as the new finance secretary, by the Union Government.He has
succeeded Hasmukh Adhia who retired on November 30.
Ex-IRDAI chief appointed as additional director of YES bank board
• On December 3, 2018, Private sector YES Bank appointed the former chief of IRDAI and LIC, TS
Vijayan, as Additional Director (Independent) on its board for a period of five years.
IL&FS appoints ex-L&T executive as group COO
• On 03rd December 2018, Debt-laden Infrastructure Leasing and Finance Company (IL&FS) ,
appointed N Sivaraman as group Chief Operating Officer (COO).
State Bank of India ropes in Swapna Barman as brand ambassador for YONO
• On 03rd December 2018, the State Bank of India has roped in Asian Games gold medalist Swapna
Barman as brand ambassador for its digital app YONO(You only need one).
Axis Capital CEO Dharmesh Mehta stepped down and appointed new joint MD and co-CEO
• On December 4, 2018, MD & CEO of Axis Capital, Mr. Dharmesh Mehta stepped down.
The bank had also elevated Salil Pitale and Chirag Negandhi as Joint Managing Directors and Co-
Chief Executive Officer.
Former Indian diplomat Preeti Saran elected to UN’s socio-economic, cultural panel
• On December 6, 2018,Former senior Indian diplomat Preeti Saran has been elected to the Asia
Pacific seat on the Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR) of the UN
for 4 years.This election was done by the UN’s Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
Indian-origin Shamila Batohi,the First Female appointed head of South Africa’s National
Prosecuting Authority
• On 05th December 2018,Indian-origin lawyer Shamila Batohi ,the First Female has been appointed
as the National Director of South Africa’s National Public Prosecutions (NDPP), a statutory body
that investigates high-level criminal matters in the country.She will start her new role in February
2019.
IL&FS Investment Managers’ board appointed new additional directors
• On December 6, 2018, IL&FS Investment Managers board approved appointment of Nand Kishore
and Kaushik Modak as additional directors in the company.
(IL&FS).
Government appointed Lalit Kumar as its nominee on ICICI Bank
• On December 5, 2018, the government appointed Lalit Kumar, a 1995-batch Indian Economic
Service (IES) officer as the new government nominee on private sector ICICI Bank. He would
replace Lok Ranjan, who has been laterally transferred to Department of Personnel and Training
(DOPT).
ACQUISITIONS & MERGERS

Mauritius SBM gets RBI approval to merge operations with its Indian subsidiary
• On December 1 2018,The Reserve Bank of India said it has approved merger of SBM
(Mauritius),India with SBM Bank (India).Following the approval, the SBM Bank (India)
Limited will start operation as scheduled commercial bank under the Banking Regulation Act,
1949 with effect from December 1, 2018.
HUL board approves merger with GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare
• On 03rd December 2018,FMCG major Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) approves the merger with
GlaxoSmithKline Consumer Healthcare (GSKCH India) through an-all equity deal, valuing the total
business of the latter at 31,700 crore.
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SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Chinese firm unveils plans to provide free worldwide WiFi with 272 satellites
• On 29th November 2018, A Chinese Internet Technology firm, LinkSure Network which markets
itself as a Global Innovative Mobile Internet Company specializing in free internet access, content
and location based services unveiled a plan to provide free worldwide WiFi service with a
constellation of 272 satellites by 2026.
Digital Sky portal : India starts online registration portal for drones, pilots, and operators
• On December 1 2018 Civil Aviation Minister Suresh Prabhu announced about a portal called
‘Digital Sky’ which is a online registration method for drone operators in the country. Both pilots
and owners of the drones should be registered in this portal to operate.
Rajnath Singh announces special women safety feature in pan-India emergency app
• On 1st December 2018, in Kohima (Nagaland) Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh announces a
pan India single mobile app “112 India” which is connected to the Emergency Response support
system (ERSS) exclusively for women in emergency. A‘SHOUT’ feature has been made available
exclusively for women in the ‘112 India’ app.
SpaceX launches India’s first privately built satellite ExseedSAT 1
• On 3rd December 2018, SpaceX founded by Elon Musk, launched India’s first privately built
satellite ExseedSAT 1 along with 63 other satellite from 18 countries in the company’s largest-
ever “rideshare” mission on a twice-reused Falcon 9 rocket from the Vandenberg air force base in
California, USA.
Soyuz first manned mission to ISS since October failure
• On 3rd December 2018, the first manned Soyuz spacecraft since the failure of 11th October launch
which carries Russian, American and Canadian astronauts arrived at the International Space
Station (ISS).
India’s heaviest communication satellite GSAT-11 launched successfully
• On 05th December 2018, Indian Space Research Organization’s (ISRO) heaviest and most-
advanced high throughput communication satellite GSAT-11 was successfully launched from the
Spaceport in French Guiana.The launch vehicle Ariane 5 VA-246 lifted off from Kourou Launch
Base, French Guiana carrying India’s GSAT-11.
World’s 1st 3D-printed functional e-bike made in Germany
• On December 5, 2018, German firm BigRep and NOWlab produced the world’s first fully
functioning e-motorbike NERA using a 3D printer.
1st synthetic material that gets thicker on stretching found
• On 4th December 2018, researchers led by Dr Devesh Mistry from the University of Leeds,
England, discovered a new non-porous material that has unique and inherent “auxetic” stretching
properties. The material becomes thicker at the molecular level as it is stretched.
Over 100 new exoplanets discovered by NASA’s Kepler telescope
• An International team of astronomers have discovered more than 100 extrasolar planets
(exoplanets) that revolve around stars other than the Sun, using a combination of ground and
space-based telescopes.The study is published in detail in the Astronomical Journal.
ENVIRONMENT
Global temperatures on track to rise 3-5 degrees by 2100: UN
• On 29th November 2018, United Nations World Meteorological Organization in its annual report
said that Global temperature may rise by 3-5 degree Celsius by the end of this century, which is
higher than the target to limit the increase in temperature to 2 degrees Celsius or less.
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WMO pointed 2018 to be the fourth warmest on record besides speculating 75-80% chance of El
Niño within next 3 months
• On 29th November 2018, Days before the beginning of COP24 climate summit in Poland, the World
Meteorological Organization (WMO) has released a report pertaining to present .There is a 75 to
80 % chance of a moderate El Nino event forming in the next three months, possibly impacting
weather patterns in several regions.
SPORTS
Dipa Karmakar grabs bronze in vault event at Artistic Gymnastics World Cup held in Cottbus,
Germany
• On 24th November 2018, India’s 25 year old Dipa Karmakar won Bronze medal in the Vault event
of Artistic Gymnastics World Cup organized by Federation Internationale de Gymnastique (FIG)
held in Cottbus, Germany after returning from an injury she suffered in the 2018 Asian Games.
With this performance, she comes a step closer towards qualifying for 2020 Olympics.
Croatia wins the 2018 Davis Cup, beating France 3-1
• On 25th November 2018, Croatia defeated the defending champion France in the final of 2018
Davis Cup organized by BNP Paribas (Banque Nationale de Paris) for securing the title second
time after 13 years.
Netherlands win FIH Women’s Hockey Champions Trophy
• On 25th November, 2018 the Netherlands took a decisive seventh title at the International Hockey
Federation (FIH) Women’s Hockey Champions Trophy event with a 5-1 victory over Australia in
Changzhou Wujin, China.
AIBA set to introduce ‘protest system’ at 2019 Men’s World championship
• On 29th November 2018, The International Boxing Association (AIBA) announced that it will
introduce a “Protest System” for coaches and boxers in next year’s Men World Championship to
be held in Moscow, Russia which will also acts as a qualifier for 2020 Olympic Games.
Minjee Lee becomes the first woman to win Australia’s Greg Norman Medal
• 22 Years old Australian Golfer, Minjee Lee became the first woman to win prestigious Greg
Norman Medal as the best Australian golfer on the international stage after her brilliant
performance in 2018.
Lionel Messi surpasses Cristiano Ronaldo to be Champions League top goal scorer
• On 28th November 2018, Barcelona striker Lionel Messi surpassed his long rival Cristiano Ronaldo
from Portugal after scoring his 106th Goal against PSV Eindhoven to reclaim the Champions
League Record of having the most goals for a club.
IOC sets up human rights advisory committee starting in 2024
• On 1st December 2018, The International Olympic Committee IOC has set up an advisory
committee on human rights chaired by Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein, the former United
Nations commissioner for human rights starting in 2024. Beijing is the host of the 2022 Winter
Olympics, and spent USD 40 billion.
Wrestling Federation of India rolls out contracts system for Wrestlers
• On 1st December 2018, The Wrestling Federation of India (WFI) rolled out its revolutionary
contracts system for Wrestlers. The announcement was made by WFI President Brij Bhushan
Sharan Singh in the presence of Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Aditya Nath, who inaugurated
the senior National Championship at Nandini Nagar in Gonda(U.P).
Women’s Pro Golf Tour: Ridhima Dilawari wins maiden professional title
• Ridhima Dilawari from New Delhi captured her maiden professional title in the 17th leg of the
Hero Women’s Pro Golf Tour at the Noida Golf Course.The 18th and final leg of the season will be
held from 11th to 14th of this month at the Royal Calcutta Golf Club.
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Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik won gold in Tata Motors Senior National Championship
• On 1st December 2018, Vinesh Phogat and Sakshi Malik won Gold medals in 57 kg and 62
kg category respectively at the second day of Tata Motors Senior Women’s National
Championship hosted by Uttar Pradesh.
Commonwealth Senior Fencing Championships in Canberra, Australia
• From 23rd to 28th November 2018, Commonwealth Senior Fencing Championships, was held
in Canberra, Australia. India won a total of 3 medals: 2 gold and 1 bronze, in the championship.
Bhavani Devi won gold medal in the Senior Women’s Sabre event.
Tata Open India International Challenge 2018 (Badminton)
• From 28th November to 2nd December 2018, Tata Open India International Challenge 2018 was
held in Mumbai. Lakshya Sen (India) won Men’s Singles and Ashmita Chaliha (India) won
Women’s Singles.
Ullas Narayan wins India’s first international medal in ultra running
• On 2nd December 2018, Ullas Narayan became the first Indian individual medal winner in
an international ultra running event by winning bronze in the 2018 International Association of
Ultra Running (IAU) 24 Hour Asia & Oceania Championships in Taipei, Taiwan.
Atlawim Debebe of Ethiopia wins Pune International Marathon
• On 2nd December 2018, Atlawim Debebe of Ethiopia, won the Full Marathon with the timing of 2
hours 17 minutes 17 seconds in Pune International Marathon.Second and third positions were
secured by Ethiopians Teshome Getachew and Bekele Asefa respectively.
Delhi Daredevils renamed as Delhi Capitals ahead of 2019 IPL season
• On 4th December 2018, Indian Premier League (IPL) franchise Delhi Daredevils were renamed
as Delhi Capitals and the announcement was made in a function in the capital held by owners
GMR Group and JSW Sports.
Gautam Gambhir announced retirement from all forms of cricket
• On December 4, 2018, 37-year-old, former Indian opening batsman, Gautam Gambhir announced
his retirement from all forms of Cricket. He also played in 147 ODIs, besides featuring in 37 T20
Internationals and played in 58 Tests.
Budapest to host 2023 IAAF World Championships
• On 4th December 2018, the Hungarian capital Budapest was officially confirmed as the host city of
the 2023 International Association of Athletics Federations (IAAF) World Championships. The
decision in this regard was taken at the IAAF Council meeting held in Monaco.
Yasir Shah becomes fastest bowler to take 200 Test wickets
• On 06th December 2018, Pakistan’s leg-spinner Yasir Shah became the fastest cricketer to take 200
Test wickets in just 33 Tests,breaking an 82-year-old record, beating Australian leg-
spinner Clarrie Grimmett’s record of 36 Tests set against South Africa in Johannesburg in 1936
BOOKS & AUTHORS

‘Nomophobia’ declared People’s Word of 2018 by Cambridge Dictionary
• UK’s Cambridge Dictionary has confirmed “nomophobia” the inaugural People’s Word of the Year
(2018).Cambridge Dictionary has named “nomophobia” which means the “fear or worry at the
idea of being without your mobile phone or unable to use it” became word of the year 2018.
Book: ”Architecture of Justice: A Pictorial Walk-through of the Supreme Courts and High Courts of
India” released by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi”
• On 30th November 2018, the Chief Justice of India Ranjan Gogoi released a book authored by
father-son duo Vinay Thakur and Amogh Thakur named “ Architecture of Justice: A pictorial walk-
through of the supreme court and High courts of India” in New Delhi.
Book on ‘anti-farmer policies’ of Modi government launched
• On 26th November 2018, A book named “Modiraj Main Kisan, Double Aamad Ya Double
afat” authored by Swaraj India President Yogendra Yadav launched by agricultural
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economist Ashok Gulati and the Punjab State Farmers’ and Farm Workers’ Commission
Chairman Ajay Vir Jakhar in New Delhi.
Ministry of Home Affairs released a booklet titled “A Handbook for Students on Cyber Safety” to
create awareness among teenagers about online Crimes and Threats
• The Ministry of Home Affairs released a booklet in English language titled “A Handbook for
Students on Cyber Safety” to create awareness among the Students and Adolescents about the
cyber safety.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lamba, released a book titled ‘Blue Waters Ahoy!’
• On 4th December 2018, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Sunil Lamba released ‘Blue Waters
Ahoy!’ a book chronicling the Indian Navy’s history from 2001-10 in New Delhi.
OBITUARY
Former 41st US President George HW Bush passed away at 94
• On December 1, 2018, the former US President George HW Bush passed away at 94. He was
the 41st president of the United States and had been in leadership during the end of the Cold War.
Spider-Man, Iron Man co-creator Stan Lee died of cardiac arrest
• On 12th November 2018, Marvel Comics Legend, Stan Lee who revolutionized the Comics industry
in 1960s died due to heart and respiratory failure at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center at an age of 95.
Singer Mohammed Aziz passed away at 64
• On November 29, 2018, bollywood singer Mohammed Aziz from West Bengal passed away
at 64.He was famous for the evergreen tracks such as “My name is Lakhan”, “Aap ke aa jane se”
and “Dil le gayi teri bindiya”.
Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lamba, released a book titled ‘Blue Waters Ahoy!’
• On 4th December 2018, the Chief of Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Sunil Lamba released ‘Blue Waters
Ahoy!’ a book chronicling the Indian Navy’s history from 2001-10 in New Delhi. The book has
been authored by Vice Admiral Anup Singh.
Noted agriculturalist Jayaraman passes away
• On 06th December 2018, noted agriculturalist Jayaraman from Thiruthuraipoondi, in the heart of
Tamil Nadu’s delta rice bowl, who pioneered the protection and propagation of indigenous paddy
varieties in Tamilnadu, passed away in Chennai.He has been credited with documenting and
protecting more than 170 paddy varieties.
IMPORTANT DAYS
Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare – 30 November
• On 30th November 2018, Day of Remembrance for all Victims of Chemical Warfare was observed
all over the world.This day also promotes the goals of peace, security, and multilateralism.
International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People-November 29
• On 29th November every year since 1977 United Nations organizes “The International Day of
Solidarity with Palestinian People” as a reminder to the unresolved unrest caused after Israel
Occupied East Jerusalem in the 1967 Six-day war.
30 World AIDS Day seen globally on December 1, 2018
th
• December 1 is seen as the World AIDS day globally to show support for people living with HIV,
and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness.Thus, 2018 marked
the 30th anniversary of World AIDS Day. The theme for the 2018 version is “Know Your Status”.
Armed Forces Week commenced from Dec 1 to Dec 7
• December 1, 2018 marked the start of the Armed Forces week till December 7, 2018. December 7,
2018 will mark the 70th Armed Forces Flag Day.
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Border Security Force celebrated its 54th Raising Day on December 1, 2018
• On December 1, 2018, the Border Security
Force,BSF alongwith Pakistan and Bangladesh celebrated its 54th Raising Day. The motto of BSF
is: Duty Unto Death.
World Computer Literacy Day – December 2
• World Computer Literacy Day will be celebrated on December 2 every year. It aims to “create
awareness and drive digital literacy in underserved communities worldwide”.
International Day for Abolition of Slavery – December 2
• An International Day for Abolition of Slavery will be marked on December 2 every year and
December 2 2018 is marking the 32nd anti-slavery day. It aims to end slavery which includes
sexual exploitation, forced marriage, trafficking of persons and recruitment of child labour.
International Day of Persons with Disabilities – 3rd December
• December 3 is observed as United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities or World
Disability Day.The theme for this year is “Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring
inclusiveness and equality”.
Navy Day 2018 – December 04
• On 4th December 2018, India celebrated its 47th Navy Day. The day is celebrated in honour of the
maritime force’s role during the war with Pakistan in 1971 when Indian warships attacked
Karachi port.
World Soil Day: 5 December
• World Soil Day is celebrated annually on 5th of December every year. It is celebrated at the Food
and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), the regional offices and through
national and local events. World Soil Day 2018 aims to raise awareness and call people to Stop
Soil Pollution.
Annual International Volunteer Day celebrated on December 5
• December 5 is annually seen as International Volunteer Day for Economic and Social
Development. It is also called as International Volunteer Day. The theme of the International
Volunteer Day 2018 is: “Volunteers build Resilient Communities”.
18 | P a g e
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 Current Affairs Today
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SSC CGL 2018: 50 Tests (30 Tier I + 20 Tier II)

India has one-third of world’s stunted children: Global nutrition report

Nagaland signs MoU with Estonian academy on e-governance

India collaboration in the field of cultural heritage conservation.It concluded on December 5,

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AffairsCloud Recommends Oliveboard Mock Test

IBPS Clerk 2018: Take 30 Tests, 1 Free

IBPS SO (IT, Agriculture & Marketing Officer). Take Free Tests

SEBI 2018: 20 Tests(ESI + F&M + Securities), 1 Free

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SSC CGL 2018: 50 Tests (30 Tier I + 20 Tier II)

Good Luck with Your Exams!!!

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