Current Affairs October 2014

Current Affairs 1'st October 2014

1. Afghanistan Signed Bilateral Security Pact With U.S.

Afghanistan inked Bilateral Security Agreement with United States. This will allow some US troops to remain in the Afghanistan till 2015. This Bilateral Security Agreement was signed by Mohammad Hanif Atmar (National Security Adviser of Afghanistan) and James Cunningham (US Ambassador) at presidential palace of Afghanistan in Kabul.This pact shortly came after the formation of new government in Afghanistan, as new President Ashraf Ghani sworned in on 29th September 2014. 

2. Fourth Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy Statement 2014-15 released by RBI

The Reserve Bank of India released fourth Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy Statement. Policy rates were kept unchanged in this announcement.

Important changes :

1. The Repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 8.0 per cent

2. The cash reserve ratio (CRR) of scheduled banks unchanged at 4.0 per cent of net demand and time liabilities (NDTL)

3. Reduced the Statutory Liquidity Ratio under the export credit refinance (ECR) facility from 32 per cent of eligible export credit outstanding to 15 per cent with effect from 10 October 2014

4. Continue to provide liquidity under overnight repos at 0.25 per cent of bank-wise NDTL at the LAF repo rate and liquidity under 7-day and 14-day term repos of up to 0.75 per cent of NDTL of the banking system through auctions

5. Continue with daily one-day term repos and reverse repos to smooth liquidity

6. The reverse repo rate under the LAF remained unchanged at 7.0 per cent and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate at 9.0 per cent.

3. In one of the most awaited meets scheduled to take place this year, US President Barack Obama on Monday hosted a private dinner for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who was once shunned by America, at the White House. The duo will hold summit level talks on Tuesday to reset stalled India-US relations. After the dinner, Modi described the meet with Obama as “wonderful”, adding the duo discussed a number of issues.

4. A series of NASA satellite images has revealed the shocking decline of water levels in the Aral Sea, a massive environmental disaster dubbed “the quiet Chernobyl.” NASA’s Terra satellite began capturing the images in 2000, when the vast central Asian lake known as the Aral Sea was already a fraction of its 1960 size (as shown by the black line in the images).

5. Responding to Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s call for a ‘Swachh Bharat’, Eastern Command of the Army will adopt villages to promote cleanliness and hygiene.

Eastern Command Headquarters has issued guidelines and directions to all its lower formations to adopt a village each in their vicinity to extol the virtues of cleanliness and also lead by example in mobilising the residents to keep their surroundings clean, a Defence statement said.

6. Underworld dons Dawood Ibrahim, Chhota Shakeel and one other co-accused were declared as proclaimed offenders by a Delhi court in connection with the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal case.

7. Petrol price was cut by 54 paise a litre, but the first reduction in diesel rates in over five years was put off until the return of Prime Minister Narendra Modi from the US.

At least 12 persons were killed and 45 others injured when two speeding passenger trains collided near Gorakhpur. Railway spokesperson Anil Saxena said among the 45 injured, 12 are grievously injured. Krishak Express, travelling from Varanasi to Gorakhpur, hit Barauni Express, going from Lucknow to Barauni, from behind at a place, about seven km from Gorakhpur at around 11 pm, Chief Public Relations Officer Alok Singh said.

8. The search for Malaysia Airlines Flight MH370 enters a new underwater phase this week almost seven months after the jet went missing, with two specialist ships to join the hunt.

Eminent Shia cleric and MLA of opposition PDP in Jammu and Kashmir Assembly Moulvi Iftikhar Hussain Ansari died following prolonged illness. A four-time MLA from Pattan in north Kashmir, Ansari, 74, died in the wee hours after battling liver cirrhosis for more than a year, his family sources said. He is survived by wife, two sons and a daughter.

9. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates topped Forbes’ latest list of the 400 richest Americans for the 21st straight year.

The list, released on Monday, was largely unchanged for 2014 and showed the rich getting richer. The combined wealth of those on the list rose 13 per cent to $2.29 trillion, helped by a stronger US. stock market.

10. After President Authorization, Vigilance Commissioner Rajiv to act as CVC

Vigilance Commissioner Rajiv will be acting as Central Vigilance Commissioner (CVC) after it was authorised by President Pranab Mukherjee.

11. As Mr. Pradeep Kumar completed his tenure as CVC on 28th September 2014. Mr. Pradeep Kumar was serving on this post since July 2011.

Important to mention here that Government did not make any appointment as case of lack of transparency in the appointments in the Central Vigilance Commission is going on in Supreme Court and Govt will not make any appointment till this case get decided. 

12. RIP Orkut

ORKUT - a social networking site of Google was closed permanently, though it was announced by Google earlier in June 2014.So more Orkutscraps anymore. Orkut was launched in 2004 and was named after Orkut Buyukkokten, who created it. 

12. Apollo Hospitals tied up with Pharma firm Sanofi

Apollo Hospitals tied up with Pharma firm Sanofi. Apollo Hospitals planned for expansion of Apollo Sugar Clinics in country which will be providing integrated diabetes care programmes and will be working on to help patients better manage their diabetes. Firstly they will be establishing around 50 Apollo Sugar Clinics.

13. First case of Ebola virus diagnosed in US 

The US diagnosed its first case of the deadly Ebola virus in the patient who traveled to the country from in Liberia and to Texas.

14. Legendary Indian boxer MC Mary Kom on 1 October 2014 bagged her first ever Asian Games Gold Medal.

15. Union government accorded in-principle approval for setting up six more STPIs in Odisha taking the number of such parks to 10.

The Union MNRE announced the organization of the first Renewable Energy Global Investors Meet & Expo (RE-INVEST).

16. Lucknow – Barauni express and Maduadih-Lucknow Krishak Express collided near Gorakhpur station at Nandnagar railway crossing.

Current Affairs 2'nd October 2014

1. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 2 October launched his ‘Swachh Bharat’ or ‘Clean India’ campaign in Delhi. 

The campaign is to have a mass movement to realise Mahatma Gandhi’s dream of a Clean India by 2019, when the country will celebrate 150th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation.  This initiative by PM was equally responded by different states with great enthusiasm.President Pranab Mukherjee said that every Indian should devote two hours or at least 100 hours annually for this cleanliness drive.Prime Minister Modi tweeted that "My faith is in the people of India. I am confident we will devote our time & energies and make this Mission a success." 

2. Rory McIlroy, world’s No.1 Golf Player selected for PGA Tour’s Player of the year. He is from Ireland and also 4 time major champion of Golf.

3. Justice GS Singhvi, who retired from the Supreme Court in December 2013, has been appointed as the Chairman of the Competition Appellate Tribunal (COMPAT). The appointment was made following the retirement of Justice V.S. Sirpurkar, who was also a former judge of the Supreme Court.

4. University of Edinburgh will celebrate India Day on 02nd October 2014.

5. Microsoft Corp announced ‘Windows 10’ operating system.

6. According to Internet Barriers Index, India ranked at No.20.

7. Indian men hockey team clinched gold after 16 years in Asian Games

Among the sports current affairs, India got another Gold at Asian Games 2014 as Indian men Hockey team won the final match.  Indian defeated Pakistan by 4-2 to get this medal. There was a spectacular penalty shootout to get the result of match. Indian goalkeeper P.R Sreejesh saved two goals by showing his brilliant skills and was the hero of the match. Last gold medal was bagged by team 16 years before in 1998. By this win India also got qualification for the 2016 Olympics.

8. Nagaland clinches Subroto Cup U-14 Trophy

Greenwood High School, Nagaland defeated Government Model High School, Chandigarh, 5-4 at the Ambedkar Stadium, New Delhi to win the under 14 title in the 55th edition of the Subroto Cup.
The winning team was awarded Rs. 2.5 lakh while the runners up were given 1.25 lakh. Harsh Bartwan of the team from Chandigardh was adjudged Best Player of the tournament, while Jesse and Mughato Sumi from Nagaland won Best Keeper and Best Coach respectively. All three were awarded Rs. 40,000 each. Eugeneson E. Shylla from Meghalayawas given the award for the Best Promising Player. The Fairplay Award was given to Namchi Sports Hostel from Sikkim

Subroto Cup

The Subroto Cup is an inter-school football tournament. It has two categories: under 14 and under 17. It was the brainchild of Air Marshal Subroto Mukerjee. He conceived the idea of a football tournament so as to promote the game at the grassroot level in India. After his unfortunate demise in 1960, the Subroto Mukerjee Sports Education Society was conducting the tournament.  The tournament is conducted by the Indian Air Force in remembrance of Air Marshal Subroto Mukerjee.  The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports also supports the tournament with an annual grant of Rs. 5 lakh.The Subroto Cup has the distinction of being the only Indian football tournament for school boys. The tournament had started out as a tournament for school boys in India only, but has since expanded to include teams from other nations as well.

9. CCI (Competition Commission of India)

The CCI whose predecessor was the MRTPC (Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Commission) was established to eliminate practices that adversely affect competition in different industries/areas and protect interests of consumers and ensure freedom of trade. The Competition Act of 2002 called for the creation of CCI. However, it was established in 2003 and became fully functional only by 2009. The CCI is a quasi judicial body which gives opinions to statutory authorities and also deals with other cases.

COMPAT (Competition Appellate Tribunal)

COMPAT was also established under the Competition Act of 2002. It was set up by the Centre in 2009. An appeal from a decision of the CCI is made to COMPAT. COMPAT can have one Chairperson and a maximum of two other members, all of whom serve for 5 years. They are all eligible for re-appointment unless they reach the age of 68 in case of Chairperson and 65 in case of members. Only a former SC Judge or CJ of HC can be appointed as Chairperson of COMPAT.

10. Yudh Abhyas 2014 concludes at Ranikhet

The Indo-US defence exercise titled Yudh Abhyas concluded near Ranikhet. The exercises, which commenced on September 17, were conducted in both Chaubbatia and Ranikhet. This edition of Yudh Abhyas, which lasted a total of 14 days, is the 10th of its kind that has been held. The joint exercise brought together troops from a Mountain Brigade of the Indian Army and Company and Brigade Headquarter of the US Army.

History

Yudh Abhyas first began in 2004 as part of USA’s Army Pacific Partnership Programme. This exercise aims to strength and broaden interoperability and defence cooperation between the two nations.
Exercises conducted at Yudh Abhyas 2014.The two Armies shared their experiences on counter insurgency and counter-terrorist operations, especially in mountainous terrain. The exercises were planned in such a manner that during the initial days, the troops were familiarized with each other’s organizational structure, weapons, equipment and tactical drills. The troops then proceeded to joint tactical exercises which involved practicing battle drills of both armies. The exercises ended with a 48 hr consolidation and validation exercise in which troops of both countries carried out a search and destroy mission near Ranikhet. This last leg of the exercise was witnessed by senior officers and observers of both Armies

Closing Ceremony

A parade and exchange of mementos marked the conclusion of the exercises.

Instances of Bilateral exercises

India and US also engage in other bilateral defence dexercise. One notable instance is ‘Malabar’ which is a bilateral naval exercise that takes place in India and USA alternatively. Sometimes, a third nation is also asked to participate in the exercise. Cope India are a series of Air Force exercises conducted between India and USA on Indian soil. The exercises include flight tests, practice, demonstration and lecture on aviation and related areas. India has also participated twice in the Red Flag exercises that US conducts in Nevada and Alaska. Notably, the US conducts more military exercises with India than with any other nation in the world

11. Key points from ‘Chalein Saath Saath: Forward Together We Go’

The ‘Chalein Saath Saath: Forward Together We Go’ vision statement speaks of strengthening the strategic partnership between India and USA. This statement was released during PM Modi’s visit to Washington DC to meet President Obama. The statement expressed the following points:-The strategic partnership of the two nations rests on the shared mission to provide equal opportunity to its people through democracy and freedom The two countries are bound together by kinship and commerce, scholarship and science. The ties between the people of both countries and their cooperation has resulted in developments in science and the arts. This enables the leaders of both countries to have a long term perspective as regards the partnership.

One major goal of the partnership is prosperity and peace. This endeavor shall be fulfilled through intense consultations, joint exercises, and shared technology. Security cooperation between the two will be targeted at the region and the world at large too. The countries also aim to work together towards combating terrorist threats, keeping its county and its peoples safe and responding to humanitarian disasters. The countries also dedicate themselves to stopping the spread of WMDs, reducing the salience of nuclear weapons, and promoting universal, verifiable and non-discriminatory nuclear disarmament Close cooperation between the two at the UN and beyond Support for India assuming a greater multilateral responsibility, including in a reformed UNSC and for an open and inclusive rules based global order Working together to mitigate the impact of climate change and adapt to the changing environment. Cooperation between the government and the science and academic communities to address the consequences of unchecked pollution. Take steps to ensure availability of affordable, reliable, clean and diverse sources of energy for both nations, including by bringing nuclear power technologies of American origin to India Engaging in joint research and collaboration in a variety of areas from particles of creation to outer space.

Striving for open markets that will allow trade and service to flourish. Also work towards ensuring that economic growth results in better livelihoods and welfare for all people in the country.
The two countries will also work jointly to counter infectious diseases, eliminate maternal and child deaths and to eradicate speaks to how the two countries view each other’s roles in the international arena.

12. Sarita Devi faces probe by AIBA for returning medal

Indian boxer Sarita Devi had refused to accept her bronze medal in the lightweight 57-60 kg category at the Asian Games. The boxer handed the medal to South Korean silver medalist Park Ji-na, to whom she had suffered a controversial loss in the semi-finals.

Disciplinary Action

The International Boxing Association (Amateur) or AIBA has ordered a probe against her for returning the medal during the podium ceremony. The Disciplinary Action Process to review this case has already begun. AIBA Supervisor and Technical Delegate David Francis has already submitted a formal report detailing the incident to the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA). In a statement, AIBA said that the Indian side did not have a clear understanding of the AIBA Technical Rules.

Semi-final match.

The ruling by the judges in Sarita Devi’s match against Korean Park Ji-na was controversial with two judges ruling against Sarita. She lodged an official complaint with AIBA’s technical jury team over the decision, but it was rejected as no complaint can be filed against a Judge’s ruling according to the Rules.

Support in India

Three Union Ministers, thus far, have expressed support for Sarita Devi. The Sports Minister, Sarbananda Sonowal, asked the Indian Olympic Association to submit a detailed report on Sarita Devi’s loss in the semi-finals. The Minister of State for Home also said that the Indian officials should have been more pro-active in lodging a protest with the authorities at the Asian Games. This claim was also supported by the Minister of State for North East Region Affairs.Boxer Mary Kom has also expressed her support for Sarita Devi.

13. Centre announces Rs. 286 Crore for flood hit Assam

After an aerial survey of flood hit areas in the NER (North Eastern Region),the Home Minister Rajnath Singh announced additional central assistance for Assam, Meghalaya and Arunachal Pradesh.
Memorandum on Flood Damages.The Home Minister asked the Government of Assam and Meghalaya to submit a memorandum on flood damages  for the assessment of an inter-ministerial team. Depending on the  assessment, the Centre would look into providing further assistance.

Assam

Rs. 286 cr assistance has been announced for Assam under NDRF. This is in addition to the Rs. 386 cr already granted. Assam had asked for Rs. 1,000 cr in central assistance. The CM of Assam has accused the Centre of prejudice between states. Earlier, J&K had been granted central assistance of Rs. 1,000 cr.

Meghalaya

Rs. 8 cr assistance has been announced for Meghalaya under NDRF. This is in addition to the Rs. 123 cr already granted.  Meghalaya had asked for Rs. 2,000 cr in central assistance

Arunachal Pradesh

Rs. 20 cr was announced in addition to the Rs. 70 cr that has already been released by the government.

NDRF

Two additional battalions of the National Disaster Response Force will be stationed in the NER to deal with disasters in the NER. The flash floods and landslide that were caused by a cloud burst over Garo Hills have caused large scale destruction of property and infrastructure.

14. Brahmaputra River Valley Authority (BRVA)

The CM of Assam asked the centre to expedite the setting up of BRVA so that a long term solution to mititgate erosion of land by the Brahmaputra and Barak river basins.

15. Vayoshreshtha Samman 2014

Vayoshreshtha Samman or The National Awards for Senior Citizens were presented by Sumitra Mahajan, Speaker of Lok Sabha in the presence of Thaawar Chand Gehlot, Union Minster for Social Justice & Empowerment and Minister of State Sudarshan Bhagat.

The government has been conferring Vayoshrestha Samman every year since 2005, but it has been given the status of a national award only since 2013. The Awards are given to eminent citizens and institutions in recognition of their outstanding services to the elderly people, especially indigent senior citizens.
16. International Day of Older Persons

International Day of Older Persons is observed on the 1st of October every year in accordance with a UNGA resolution. This day is used to highlight the contributions of the elderly and also raise awareness about issues such as elderly abuse. The theme this year was ‘Leaving No One Behind: Promoting a Society for All’. The Vayoshreshtha Samman Awards are given every year on the International Day of Older Persons

List of main awardees:

1. Best Institution for research in the field of Ageing to Department of Geriatric Medicine : AIIMS

2. Best Institution for providing services to senior citizens and Awareness Generation : HelpAge India

3. Best District Panchayat in Providing Services and Facilities to Senior Citizens : Dakshina Kannada Zilla Panchayath, Karnataka

4. Centenarian : Brig. M.L. Kataria (Retd.)

5. Life time Achievement : Prof. (Dr.) P.K.B. Nayar

6. Creative Art : Ms. Sushma Seth

7. Sports and Adventure (Female) : Ms. Chandra Prabha Aitwal, Uttarkashi

17. Nation celebrates Gandhi and Shastri Jayanti

On 2 October 2014, India celebrated the birth anniversaries of two of its greatest leaders and freedom fighters, Mahatma Gandhi and Lal Bahadur Shastri, on October. Multiple events across the nation were held in remembrance of the two leaders. Various schools and institutions conducted events and functions to commemorate the day. Politicians paid their respects to Gandhi and Shastri at Raj Ghat and Vijay Ghat respectively.

18. Key Outcomes of Narendra Modi’s US visit

A joint editorial released by India and US highlighted the following developments in the bilateral relationship of the two countries:-

a) Indo- US Investment Initiative

Establishment of an Indo- US Investment Initiative led by the Ministry of Finance on the Indian side and the Department of Treasury on the American side, with special focus on capital market development and financing of infrastructure. This Initiative will focus on increasing investment by institutional investors and corporate entities

b)Infrastructure Collaboration Platform

Establishment of an Infrastructure Collaboration Platform convened by the Ministry of Finance on the Indian side and the Department of Commerce on the American side to facilitate the participation of

c) American companies in Indian infrastructure projects

d) Trade Policy Forum

The two countries committed to work through the Trade Policy Forum to promote a business environment that was conducive for companies to invest and manufacture in both in India and US. Also, an annual high-level Intellectual Property Working Group as a part of the Trade Policy Forum will be formed to look into issues related to innovation.

e) Others

1. The two leaders also committed to hold public-private discussions in the early part of 2015 under the already existing Commercial Dialogue on new areas of cooperation, including innovation in advanced manufacturing.After reiterating their commitment to working together towards the creation of a new global agreement on climate change, they agreed to hold an urgent meeting of their bilateral task force on HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) prior to the next meeting of the Montreal Protocol.The two leaders launched a new US – India Climate Fellowship Program to build each other’s long term capacity to address climate change related issues.

2. A MoU between the Export-Import Bank and the Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency was signed. This MoU would make up to $1 bn in financing available to India to help its transition to a low carbon and climate resilient energy economy, at the same time boosting American renewable energy exports to India.

3. The countries also agreed to a 10 year extension of the 2005 Framework for the US – India Defense Relationship

4. The two leaders decided to intensify cooperation in maritime security, mainly by enhancing technology partnerships for India’s Navy and also upgrading the existing military exercise Malabar.

5. USA pledged to help India counter the threat of IEDs (improvised explosive devices) through I&T (information and technology).

6. The two leaders appreciated the establishment and planned first meeting of the NASA-ISRO Mars Joint Working Group under the U.S.-India Civil Space Joint Working Group and hoped for further co-operation in the area of space technology.

7. The two countries agreed to launch a new phase of the India-U.S. Vaccine Action Program and emphasis on developing affordable vaccines for dengue, malaria, and TB.

8. The two countries pledged to work together towards the export of nuclear technology from US to India to make India more self-reliant. In furtherance of this, the countries decided to continue working towards India’s phased entry into the Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG),the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR),the Wassenaar Arrangement and the Australia Group. The American President expressed his support for India’s early application and eventual membership in all four regimes.

Current Affairs 3'rd October 2014

1. Puducherry and Chandigarh achieved this milestone by providing all the households with at-least one account.

This was revealed in the meeting that the Finance Ministry held with representatives of public and private sector banks to review the progress made in the implementation of Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY),the flagship financial inclusion programme launched on 28 August 2014.

2. Home Ministry issues notification for lifetime validity of PIO Cards

Within days of the PM’s announcement of lifetime visas for PIOs, the notification for the same has been issued by the Centre.

Notification

The notification amends the rules of the PIO Card Scheme so that new recipients of PIO cards will receive cards that will be valid for the duration of their life, provided they are holders of valid passports. This lifetime validity will be applicable retrospectively to holders of PIO cards too if they possess a valid passport.  Earlier, PIOs had cards which granted them a 15 year visa, which could then be extended for a term of 10 years at a time.The Scheme for issuance of Person of Indian Origin Card (PIO Card) Amendment Scheme, 2014  also amended the rules that required PIOs spending more than 180 days in India to register themselves with the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office). No such registration is now required irrespective of how long the PIO’s stay is.

PIO

1. A PIO refers to any person without Indian passport and not a citizen of Pakistan, Sri Lanka, China, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan,  who falls under any of the following categories

2. Any person who has at any time held an Indian passport

3. Any person whose parent(s) or grandparent (s) or great grandparents (s) was born in India or was a permanent resident in India . However, such a person should not have been a citizen of any other specific country

4. Any person who is a spouse of a citizen of India or of a PIO who falls under any of the above two categories

5.  Scheme for issuance of Person of Indian Origin Card (PIO Card) Scheme, 2002

6. This scheme was launched in 15th September 2002. The aim of this scheme was to ensure easier travel of PIOs to India. Holders of PIO cards can avail of various benefits, the most important of which is travelling to India without a visa.

3. Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, which was even elevated in 2004 to the status of a

UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been named one of the world’s most spectacular train stations in a list compiled by a German real estate data mining company.

4. After men, women too won gold in kabaddi at Asian Games 2014

After Indian men won Gold medal in kabaddi, Indian women too clinched gold. Indian women got gold by beating Iran by 31-21 in final at Songdo Global University Gymnasium. 
As of now, India has won total 11 Gold, 10 Silver and 36 Bronze medals.

5. Veteran industrialist Pollachi Mahalingam passes away

Three time MLA and Noted industrialist Pollachi N Mahalingam passed away on 2nd October 2014 following a cardiac arrest. An Educationist, Gandhian and philanthropist Pollachi N Mahalingam was 91 years old. He was participating in a lecture when he suddenly collapsed and was declared dead when was taken to hospital nearby. He was chairman of Sakthi Group of Companies and Anamallais Bus Transport Ltd.He had published Mahatma Gandhi's works in Tamil in 20 volumes. He was also a recipient of Padma Bhushan in 2007.

6. E-rickshaws recognized as special category three-wheeled vehicles

The Ministry of Road Transport & Highway has issued a notification amending the Motor Vehicles Act, allowing e-rickshaws to ply in New Delhi. Earlier, a Delhi HC judgment had banned e-rickshaws due to safety concerns. But, the Centre has recognized e-rickshaws as a special category and has come out with guidelines for their usage. This decision has been taking by the government after taking into consideration the loss of livelihood caused to many e-rickshaw drivers because of the ban.

E-rickshaws?

E-rickshaws or electric rickshaws are three wheeled vehicles that are operated with an electric motor. The notification defines e-rickshaws as a ‘special purpose battery operated vehicle having three wheels and intended to provide last mile connectivity for transport of passengers’.

Restrictions

An e-rickshaws cam carry a maximum of four passengers, excluding the driver, and luggage that weighs no more than 40 kg. The maximum allowed speed limit for e-rickshaws is 25 km/hr and the netpower of its motor cannot be more than 2,000 W.
Further, a license issued/renewed for an e-rickshaw will be valid only for three years from the date of issue.

7. India defeated Iran by 31-21 to notch up its second successive gold medal at the Asian Games. This was India’s 10th gold medal in these games.

Turkey is a member of NATO but it was not clear whether Turkey would support the US-led coalition fighting the Islamic State group. On the other hand the fight for the Kurdish city of Kobane in Syria intensified as Islamic State militia was located just outside the city on 2 October.

8.Election Commission guidelines on financial transparency

ECI’s (Election Commission of India) guidelines on financial transparency came into effect on October 1, 2014. The order was, however, passed on August 29.Mode of holding funds and making payments It is now virtually mandatory for political parties to deposit their funds in banks. Also, no payment in excess of Rs. 20,000 can be made to any person/company in cash, except in a village or town that doesn’t have a bank. Payments towards salary, pension or reimbursement of expenses of party employee/party functionary are exempt from the afore-mentioned rule.Additionally, political parties cannot exceed the maximum limits that have been fixed in giving financial assistance to candidates Maintenance of Accounts It is the responsibility of the Treasurer of the political party to ensure maintenance of accounts at all state and lower levels along with the consolidated accounts at the central headquarters of the party. These accounts will be maintained in conformity with the guidance note on accounting and auditing of political parties that has been issued by the ICAI (Institute of Chartered Accountants of India). These accounts will then have to audited annually by certified chartered accountants in accordance with the provisions of the Income Tax Act.

ECI

The ECI derives the authority to issue the guidelines under Article 324 of the Constitution, which puts the onus of superintendence, direction and control of elections on the ECI. These guidelines are part of a larger set of comprehensive guidelines on transparency and accountability in party funds and election expenditure being brought out by the ECI. Some of the other areas where the constitutional body has been proactive are in conducting free and fair elections, issuing and enforcing the Model Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates, overseeing registration of political parties, fixing limits on poll expenses, curbing paid advertisements and prohibiting exit polls.

9. International day of Non-Violence celebrated

The International Day of Non-violence is being celebrated throughout the world on October 2, 2014 the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. This Day is observed by all countries of the UN and it promotes the principles of non-violence through education and public awareness.

International day of Non-Violence

A resolution was tabled in the UNGA in 2007 to establish the International Day of Non-violence in an effort to spread the message of non-violence. The resolution acknowledged the efforts of Mahatma Gandhi is spreading the message of non-violence, and it was decided to celebrate the International Day of Non-violence on October 2. This resolution passed in the UNGA, and since then October 2 has been globally observed as International Day of Non-violence.

Current Affairs 4'th October 2014

1. Sweden to become the first member of the European Union to recognise the state of Palestine.

2. MoU with UK

The portal in India will be established on the lines of a similar initiative of the UK government. The government has even signed an MoU with UK to learn from its project.The UK government’s National Career Service was launched in 2012 and is an integrated free service which provides advice and information for training, learning and work opportunities to anyone older than 13 years. The service is available online via web chat, through phone and can be directly accessed through multiple walk in centres. This is an improved version of an earlier plan called ‘Next Step’ that was available to those aged above 18.

3. The world first baby is born out of a transplanted womb to Swedish parents.

The 36 year-old mother, who was born without a uterus, had received a donated womb from a friend in her 60s.A year after the transplant, doctors put one of their frozen embryos into the womb resulting into a successful pregnancy.

4. World Teachers’ Day 2014 to be observed around the globe on October 5.

It represents a significant token of the awareness, understanding and appreciation displayed for the vital contribution that teachers make to education and development.The day, meant to commemorates teachers’ organizations worldwide, has been held annually since 1994 by UNESCO.

5. At least 32 people killed in Stampede at Patna’s Gandhi Maidan during the Ram Leela ceremony. The stampede was triggered due to rumors of snapping of an electrical wire sparking panic in the public.

6. 17th Asian Games concluded

Asian Games 2014 were concluded on 4th October 2014. Like always China showed its dominations in this sports event by being Numero Uno. More than 9500 athletes from 45 countries took part in this grand event hosted by South Korea. After 16 days of Asian games it was time for a closing ceremony at Incheaon.India finished eighth on the tally by winning 11 Golds, 9 Silver and 37 Bronze (Total 57).
Chia won 151 Gold, 109 Silver and 83 Bronze medals (Total 343).

7. Though EU members such as Hungary, Poland and Slovakia also recognise Palestine – but they have been doing so from their pre-EU days.The decision has been taken by the recently sworn-in centre-left government led by the Prime Minister Stefan Lofven.There are over 130 countries in the world which recognises a Palestinian state.

8. On 4th October World animal day observed accross the globe

On 4th October 2014, World animal day was observed across the globe. Day is also popular by the name of World Animal Lover Day. World animal day was started in 1931 at a convention of ecologists in Florence, Italy.

9. Chennai Super Kings bagged CLT20 title

Chennai Super Kings won Champions League T20 title. Suresh Raina batted beautifully to make a century(in just 59 balls). CSK won by eight wickets in final match held in Banglore.
CSK defeated Kolkata Knight Riders in the final. CSK was given a target of 181 runs which they were able to acheive in 18.3 overs.

10. NASA’s Earth Observatory claimed that world’s fourth-largest lake, Aral Sea has dried and is at the verge of vanish.

11.Rajasthan became first Indian state to start olive refinery. The refinery is located in Lunkaransar area of Bikaner.

12. British aid worker Alan Henning beheaded by ISIS militants 

ISIS militants beheaded British aid worker, Alan Henning. In the video, the group claimes that his death is retaliation for UK strikes against the group.

13. Government to launch National Career Service Portal

The Labour Ministry is set to Launch a National Career Service Portal which will serve as an intermediary between job-seekers and job-providers. This project was originally proposed under the UPA government with an outlay of 150 cr as part of a larger revamping of the Employment Exchanges. The new government, with its emphasis on skill development and providing increased job opportunities, has taken up the project now.The portal will connect the people seeking jobs with people/companies looking for employees to hire. It will act purely as an intermediary for persons with different needs to meet. The portal will aggregate all information pertaining to jobs, job seekers, training and the employers. It will seek to connect the two parties using SMS, call centres and electronic means of communication like emails.The portal can be accessed by employers from the public sector and private sector, along with intermediaries like recruitment agencies, skill development institutes and trainers.

14. Narendra Modi for the first time addressed the countrymen over radio in programme Mann Ki Baat.

Government announces Rs. 20 lakh for each village Panchayat for the clean India mission.

Current Affairs 5'th - 6th October 2014

1. Recently, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi concluded his Visit to US on high note. During the visit, the Prime minister signed various agreements ranging from climate change and regional security to Economic investment.

2. Chennai Super Kings  won CLT20 2014 title of Cricket by defeating KKR by 8 wickets in the final match played at the M Chinnaswamy Stadium in Bengaluru.

3. Shah Rukh Khan conferred with Global Diversity Award 2014

Noted bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan was conferred with Global Diversity Award 2014 at Britain's House of Commons. He got this prestigious award by  House of Commons speaker John Bercow. Actor was conferred with the award for his outstanding achievements in the field of cinema and his involvement in philanthropic endevours.This award has been instituted by Rainbow Foundation and is presented to an outstanding individual for his/her major contribution to worldwide diversity and is an international role model and icon.

4. Carzonrent unit acquired by Sumitomo for 200 crore rupeesWORCESTER, Massachusetts 

A US doctor and missionary who was successfully treated for Ebola he contracted in Africa is back in the hospital with what appears to be a respiratory infection, but doctors don’t suspect a recurrence of the virus.

5. Lewis Hamilton of Mercedes team won the Japanese F1 Grand Prix on 5 October.

British driver Lewis Hamilton won the race to take 10 point lead over teammate Nico Rosberg (Germany). Rosberg finished the race at second spot while third place was taken by Red Bull’s Sebastian Vettel (Germany).

6. John O'Keefe, May-Britt Moser and Edvard I.Moser named for 2014 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine 2014

2014 Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine was given to John O'Keefe, May-Britt Moser and Edvard I.Moser for their discoveries of cells that constitute a positioning system in the brain. One half of award was given to John O'Keefe while other half of award was given jointly to May-Britt Moser and Edvard I. Moser. John O'Keefe is currently serving as Director of the Sainsbury Wellcome Centre in Neural Circuits and Behaviour at University College London.May-Britt Moser is a Norway Citizen, She is Director of the Centre for Neural Computation in Trondheim.Edvard I. Moser is also a Norway Citizen, She is director of the Kavli Institute for Systems Neuroscience in Trondheim.

7.Jamia hamdard univ chancellor Saiyid Hamid conferred with Sir Ross Masood Lifetime Achievement Award 2014

Chancellor of Jamia Hamdard University and former Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University, Saiyid Hamid was conferred with Sir Ross Masood Lifetime Achievement Award 2014. She was conferred the award by Vice-President Hamid Ansari. She was given this award for her Excellence in Leadership, Education, community & Public Service.Sayyid Sir Ross Masood was the Vice-Chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University in 1929, After his name this award was named. This award was established by Aligarh Muslim University Association Inc. New York. 

8. Eid-ul-Azha is being celebrated

Eid-ul-Azha is being celebrated in the national capital and across the nation with Muslims offering special prayers in Eidgahs and mosques and sacrificing animals, even as security arrangement was stepped up ahead of the festival.President Pranab Mukherjee and Vice President Hamid Ansari on Sunday greeted citizens on the eve of Eid-ul-Zuha, saying people should imbibe the spirit of universal love and brotherhood for prosperity of the nation and the world. I convey greetings and best wishes to all fellow citizens, especially my Muslim brothers and sisters," Mukherjee said, noting that the festival symbolizes sacrifice, faith and devotion. 

9. New York Times issued Apology for Racist Cartoon on India's Mars Mission

A reputed newspaper of United States, The New York Times issued an apology to its readers for its racist cartoon on India’s Mars Mission.In its apology, it clarified that it in no way was trying to impugn India.The apology was published on the New York Times Facebook page in response to criticism from many quarters.The clarification issued by Andrew Rosenthal, Editorial Page Editor reads that readers have complained about a recent editorial cartoon in the International New York Times about India’s foray into space exploration. It said that the cartoonist Heng Kim Song’s intent after the cartoon was to highlight that how exploration of space is no longer the exclusive domain of rich, Western countries.
Problem with the cartoon

The cartoon showed a farmer accompanied by a cow knocking on the door of the Elite Space Club where two men sit reading a newspaper which has India's space mission on the front page.It means that still India and Indians are considered as cattle-rearing folks.It became an ironic after Prime Minister Narendra Modi declared to the world at Madison Square Garden that we were no longer a country of snake-charmers.

10. India among five nations to build world's largest telescope

India along with Japan, the US, China and Canada will start work on the world’s biggest telescope on Hawaii Island that will enable to identify an object as small as coin from a distance of 500 kms.The 30-meter telescope will be established near the summit of the Mauna Kea volcano with a cost of $1.4 billion.The construction is expected to be completed by March 2022. Japan is expected to cover about a quarter of the construction costs.To mark the start of construction, 100 astronomers and officials from the five countries are scheduled to attend a ceremony on October 7 at a location 4,012 meters high on Mount Mauna Kea.The telescope will be larger than Japan’s Subaru Telescope, one of the world’s biggest, which was also built on the summit of Mauna Kea and started observation in 1999.

11. West Bengal government constituted task force to probe into Burdwan blast

The State Government of West Bengal constituted a high-level composite Task Force to investigate into the blasts at Khagragarh in Burdwan District. The blasts occurred on 2 October 2014 in which two persons were killed.This high-level task force will be headed the Director General of Police GM P Reddy and will also co-ordinate with various investigating agencies like CID, Kolkata police and others probing the blast.Apart from this, the state government is also keeping close touch with the National Investigating Agency (NIA) on the matter. 

12. Dhoni is ISL team Chennaiyin FC co-owner

After the likes of Sachin Tendulkar and Virat Kohli, Mahendra Singh Dhoni has become the latest cricketer to own a football team in the high-profile Indian Super League, investing in the Chennaiyin FC ahead of the event starting October 12.Dhoni, the current Indian cricket captain, has pencilled a deal to be a co-owner of Chennaiyin FC along with Bollywood actor Abhishek Bachchan.“Dhoni has signed a deal to become a co-owner of Chennaiyin FC,” a source from IMG-Reliance, the organisers of the much-anticipated league told PTI.The ISL kicks off on October 12 in Kolkata while the final will be held on December 20.

13. Novak Djokovic beats Tomas Berdych to win fifth China Open

World number one Novak Djokovic claimed his fifth China Open title with a straight set demolition of Czech Tomas Berdych.Djokovic beat Berdych in a straight set by 6-0, 6-2. Djokovic said that it was probably his best performance in all the finals in his career, adding that it was extremely incredible.

14. US partially lifted 40 year ban on arm sales to Vietnam to boost defence in South China Sea 

15. The US announced to lift 40 years long ban on arms sales to Vietnam to boost sea defence in the South China Sea.

16. Sharapova beat Kvitova to claim China Open titles

Russian Maria Sharapova overcame Czech Petra Kvitova 6-4 2-6 6-3 in the final of the China Open to claim the title and move up to number two in the world rankings on Sunday.Wimbledon Open champion Kvitova broke her opponent in the very first game but Sharapova showed greater intensity towards the end to prevail in a contest that lasted two hours and 28 minutes.

17. Oliver Wilson win first European golf title

World number 792 Oliver Wilson held on to win his first European golf title at the Alfred Dunhill Links Championship, beating world number one Rory McIlroy by one stroke on 17 under par.The Englishman, making his 228th start, finished ahead of a chasing pack to win by one stroke on 17 under par. He played in the 2008 Ryder Cup but lost his European Tour card in 2012 and needed an invite to play at St Andrews.

18. Pakistan recorded the highest number of polio cases in 14 years.

Maryland University Researchers developed a tool to predict how organisms respond to climate change.Researchers at Center for Environmental Science’s Appalachian Laboratory developed a tool to predict how organisms may respond to climate change

19. World Junior Chess Championship begins in Pune

The World Junior Chess Championship began in Pune today with a glittering ceremony attended by eminent dignitaries from the sporting world, entertainment and corporate world.The tournament will be played till 19th October and will be conducted in the Swiss League format, comprising of 13 rounds with one round scheduled each day.Gujrathi will lead the Indian challenge in the Open and Padmini Rout in the girls' championship. They pose serious threats for the more fancied players in both championships to be held simultaneously. 

20. The 2014 SASTRA Ramanujan Prize will be awarded to Dr. James Maynard (27) of the Oxford University.

The prize, established in 2005, is awarded annually to young mathematicians for outstanding contributions in the areas influenced by the mathematical genius Srinivasa Ramanujan. The age limit for the prize has been fixed at 32 to reflect Ramanujan’s achievements in his brief life span of 32 years.

21. In view of the international restrictions on Russia over Ukraine, Canada has decided to sign a contract with Antrix, the commercial arm of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO),for the launch of its satellite, industry sources said here on Saturday.

22. Sumitomo Group of Japan acquired the car lease division of Carzonrent India for sum of 200 crore rupees. 

Sumitomo Group is Japan's largest car lease business owner and having more than 6 lakh cars. Carzonrent India was founded by year 2000 by Rajeev K. Vij which caters more than 60 lakh customers annually. 

23. TS GENCO and BHEL signed MoU to establish thermal power plant in Telangana

It was announced that Telangana State Power Generation Corporation (TS GENCO) and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) have signed MoU to establish thermal power plants to generate 6,000 MW of electricity in Telangana.4000 MW will be set up at Manuguru of Khammam district and the other 2000 MW at Ramagundam in Karimnagar district.  

24. The NDA government has decided to change the name of a key foreign policy approach that remained in currency since the days of PV Narasimha Rao government in 1990s. The Look East policy will now be known as the Act East policy.

Current Affairs 7'th October 2014

1. Phelps banned for six months, no 2015 worlds

Michael Phelps, the 18-time Olympic swim champion arrested last week for drink driving, was banned for six months by USA Swimming and dropped from the 2015 World Championships.Monday's punishments came six days after Phelps was apprehended by police in his hometown of Baltimore and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, excessive speed and crossing the center line while driving inside a tunnel.The discipline meted out, which includes forfeiture of Phelps' funding from the federation for six months, is based on USA Swimming rules that prohibit conduct "detrimental to the image or reputation" of USA Swimming or the sport.Phelps will still be allowed to train with his club, but cannot compete in USA Swimming-sanctioned competitions through March 6, 2015.
Rourkela Steel Plant felicitated hockey player Birendra Lakra who was a part of the triumphant India team that defeated Pakistan in Asian Games.

2. US Supreme Court allowed gay marriages in five more states and declined to hear appeal against the decision.

3. Nearly three quarters of people who work in engineering and technical jobs would move abroad but those in tightly regulated fields are the least mobile, with half of people in social care and in health and medicine saying they would consider making a move. The poll of more than 200,000 people from 189 countries was carried out by management consultancy firm The Boston Consulting Group (BCG),the UK’s totaljobs.com and The Network, a global alliance of more than 50 recruitment websites.

4. Britain and Ireland inked MoU on new joint Visa cooperation that allows non-European travelers to these nations with a common short-stay visa.

5. Determined to raise India’s ranking in the world of high-performance computers, the government is set to clear a Rs. 4,500-crore ($730 million) mission this month to build supercomputers nearly 40 times quicker than our fastest one. A finance ministry panel mandated to clear all big-ticket investments recently okayed the National Supercomputing Mission, jointly steered by the department of science and technology and the department of electronics and information technology.

6. Anbang Insurance Group Co Ltd acquired New York luxury hotel Waldorf Astoria.

7. Deepak Parekh committee on Infrastructure submits report

The High-level government committee on infrastructure headed by Deepak Parekh submits the last part of its report in October. The Committee consisted of Uday Kotak, G.M.R Rao, Sanjay Reddy and top officials from LIC, SBI, ICICI and IDFC.

Some of their proposals are as follows:

1. Establish a PPP model for power distribution, starting first with the cities

2. Modernise public sector distribution companies. The viability gap for such companies should be funded by the Central government

3. Earmark 15% of power generation of the central PSUs for open access customers so that the market becomes more competitive in an attempt to attract the open access clientele. This is also expected to increase investment in the electricity sector. (Open access customers refers to customers who buy in bulk and can directly choose where to buy their electricity from, according to the Electricity Act, 2003. Hence, the open access customers at least will not have to rely on the state controlled power distribution companies

4. Tariffs should be rationalized with a grading system that distinguishes between consumers depending on their paying capacity. Also, high income households, commercial consumer and industries should eventually be moved to market based pricing. The consumers subject to market based pricing may be allowed to choose from different suppliers of electricity. Low income consumers, however, should be subject to low tariffs and their requirements should be met with supplies from depreciated power station

5. Privatise coal mining wherein Coal India or its arms/subsidiaries can retain ownership of mines

6. Constitute a High level task force headed by a deputy governor of RBI to decide on measures to restore the health of power projects facing financial trouble due to scarcity of fuel

7. Fixed charges of a reasonable amount should be apportioned to idle power plants

8. NIIT Limited named Rahul Keshav Patwardhan as its next CEO 

NIIT Limited on 6 October 2014 appointed Rahul Keshav Patwardhan as its next (CEO).

9. FinMin may amend RBI Act for appointing 5th Deputy Gov, COO

The Finance Ministry is considering amendments to the RBI Act 1934 to enable the central bank appoint a fifth Deputy Governor and a Chief Operating Officer (COO).Finance Ministry sources confirmed that both the sides had reached an informal agreement to appoint a COO and create the post of a fifth Deputy Governor in the RBI, but with a condition.The condition is that COO would be from among the two Deputy Governors from the RBI’s quota, while the key criteria for appointment of fifth Deputy Governor would be a person with at least 25 years of experience in public administration and governance,” a senior Finance Ministry official said.The COO’s appointment is part of the RBI’s human resources (HR) restructuring exercise. The proposal envisages grouping various departments into five clusters to be headed be a Deputy Governor.The proposal also talks about creation of an additional position of a COO in the rank of Deputy Governor to head one of the five functional clusters.

10. India ranks 18th on list of most desirable places to work: BCG

India has been ranked 18th globally on the list of most desirable destinations