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Horticulture Development

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Meghalaya, the "Abode of the Clouds," is blessed with a unique topography and diverse agro-climatic conditions, making it a fertile ground for horticulture development. The state boasts a rich tradition of growing various fruits, vegetables, spices, and flowers. This, coupled with increasing government support and market demand, has positioned horticulture as a key driver of Meghalaya's economic growth and rural development.

Favorable Conditions for Growth:

Diverse Agro-climatic Zones: Meghalaya's varied topography, ranging from subtropical to temperate zones, allows for the cultivation of a wide range of horticultural crops. This diversity provides opportunities for farmers to specialize in crops best suited to their specific location.

High Rainfall: Abundant rainfall ensures adequate water availability for crops, reducing dependence on irrigation.

Fertile Soil: Although the terrain is hilly, Meghalaya possesses fertile soil suitable for horticulture.

Traditional Knowledge: Farmers in Meghalaya have inherited traditional knowledge and practices of horticulture, passed down through generations.

Key Horticultural Products:

Meghalaya produces a diverse array of horticultural products, including:

Fruits: Pineapple, banana, citrus fruits (orange, lemon, mandarin), guava, pear, plum, peach, apricot, and passion fruit.

Vegetables: Potato, cabbage, cauliflower, tomato, onion, garlic, ginger, turmeric, and various leafy vegetables.

Spices: Black pepper, ginger, turmeric, cinnamon, and chili.

Flowers: Orchids, lilies, roses, and marigolds.

Medicinal and Aromatic Plants: A wide variety, including turmeric, ginger, and various herbs.

Government Initiatives and Support:

The Meghalaya government has recognized the potential of horticulture and has implemented various schemes and programs to promote its development. These include:

Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH): This centrally sponsored scheme provides financial assistance for the establishment of new orchards, post-harvest management, processing, and marketing infrastructure.

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Horticulture Mission for North East & Himalayan Region (HMNEH): This sub-scheme of MIDH focuses specifically on the needs and challenges of the northeastern region, including Meghalaya.

National Horticulture Mission (NHM): Aims to enhance horticulture production, improve nutritional security, and increase farm income.

Formation of Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs): FPOs help farmers aggregate their produce, access better markets, and negotiate better prices.

Capacity Building and Training: The government conducts training programs for farmers on improved cultivation practices, post-harvest management, and value addition.

Challenges and Opportunities:

Despite its potential, Meghalaya's horticulture sector faces several challenges:

Limited Market Access: Due to the state's hilly terrain and inadequate infrastructure, farmers often face difficulties in transporting their produce to markets.

Post-Harvest Losses: Lack of proper storage and processing facilities leads to significant post-harvest losses.

Limited Value Addition: Most of the produce is sold in raw form, limiting the income potential for farmers.

Climate Change: Changes in rainfall patterns and increasing temperatures pose a threat to horticulture production.

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However, these challenges also present opportunities for growth and development:

Focus on High-Value Crops: Promoting the cultivation of high-value crops like exotic fruits, flowers, and medicinal plants can increase farmers' income.

Value Addition and Processing: Establishing processing units and promoting value-added products can create employment opportunities and enhance profitability.

Improved Market Linkages: Developing better road connectivity and market infrastructure can ensure better access to markets.

Adoption of Climate-Resilient Practices: Promoting climate-resilient farming practices can mitigate the impact of climate change.

Agriculture in Meghalaya

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Meghalaya, known as the "Abode of Clouds," is a state in northeastern India with an economy primarily based on agriculture. Its unique climatic conditions, diverse topography, and traditional practices make Meghalaya's agricultural sector distinctive. This article explores the key aspects of agriculture in Meghalaya, its challenges, and the potential for growth.

Table of Contents

Introduction

Agricultural Land Use in Meghalaya

Climatic Influence on Agriculture

Major Crops of Meghalaya

Food Crops

Cash Crops

Horticulture in Meghalaya

Shifting Cultivation: Jhum

Traditional Farming Practices

Livestock Farming

Fisheries and Aquaculture

Government Policies and Schemes

Organic Farming and Sustainable Practices

Agricultural Challenges in Meghalaya

Technological Interventions in Agriculture

Role of Cooperatives and Farmer Groups

Market Linkages and Agro-industries

Agricultural Exports

Impact of Climate Change

Success Stories in Meghalaya Agriculture

Future Prospects and Recommendations

Conclusion

1. Introduction

Agriculture is the backbone of Meghalaya's economy, employing around 80% of its population. The state, with a total geographical area of 22,429 square kilometers, has approximately 9.87% of its land under cultivation. The agricultural sector is dominated by small and marginal farmers who depend on traditional methods.

2. Agricultural Land Use in Meghalaya

The topography of Meghalaya, characterized by hilly terrain, restricts the availability of cultivable land. The state has a net sown area of approximately 222,000 hectares. Land use in Meghalaya is predominantly shaped by the following:

Terrace farming in hilly regions.

Jhum cultivation in forested areas.

Home gardens and mixed cropping systems.

3. Climatic Influence on Agriculture

Meghalaya's climate varies from tropical to subtropical, with annual rainfall ranging from 1,200 mm to 12,000 mm. The monsoon, lasting from June to September, is a critical period for rain-fed agriculture.

4. Major Crops of Meghalaya

Food Crops

Rice: The primary staple crop grown in lowland valleys and terraced fields.

Maize: Cultivated in the warmer regions of the state.

Millets: Adapted to the high-altitude regions.

Cash Crops

Ginger: Meghalaya is a major producer of high-quality ginger.

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Turmeric: Lakadong turmeric, known for its high curcumin content, is globally recognized.

Black Pepper: Grown in mixed cropping systems.

Areca Nut: A traditional cash crop.

5. Horticulture in Meghalaya

Horticulture plays a vital role in Meghalaya's economy. Key horticultural crops include:

Fruits: Oranges, pineapples, bananas, and plums.

Vegetables: Potatoes, tomatoes, and cabbages.

Spices: Bay leaf, pepper, and ginger.

Floriculture: Orchids of Meghalaya are famous for their exotic varieties.

6. Shifting Cultivation: Jhum

Jhum cultivation is a traditional slash-and-burn method widely practiced by tribal communities. While culturally significant, it has environmental implications, such as deforestation and soil erosion. Efforts are underway to transition farmers to sustainable practices.

7. Traditional Farming Practices

Meghalaya's farmers rely on indigenous methods, which are eco-friendly and low-cost. Mixed cropping, agroforestry, and the use of organic fertilizers are common.

8. Livestock Farming

Livestock contributes significantly to the agrarian economy. Key livestock include:

Cattle: For milk and meat production.

Pigs: A staple in the local diet.

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Poultry: For eggs and meat.

9. Fisheries and Aquaculture

Fisheries, though underdeveloped, have significant potential. The state has numerous water bodies that can be utilized for fish farming. Key species include carp and catla.

10. Government Policies and Schemes

The government has launched several initiatives to support agriculture in Meghalaya:

Mission Organic Value Chain Development (MOVCD).

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY).

Meghalaya State Aquaculture Mission.

11. Organic Farming and Sustainable Practices

Meghalaya's agro-climatic conditions are ideal for organic farming. Efforts to certify organic produce, particularly Lakadong turmeric and ginger, have been successful.

12. Agricultural Challenges in Meghalaya

Key challenges include:

Limited land availability.

Soil erosion and declining fertility.

Market access and infrastructure.

Post-harvest losses.

13. Technological Interventions in Agriculture

The introduction of high-yielding seeds, farm mechanization, and digital platforms for market access is transforming agriculture in Meghalaya.

14. Role of Cooperatives and Farmer Groups

Cooperatives and self-help groups play a pivotal role in providing credit, inputs, and market linkages to farmers.

15. Market Linkages and Agro-industries

Improved connectivity and the development of agro-processing industries can enhance the value chain for Meghalaya's agricultural produce.

16. Agricultural Exports

Export-oriented strategies for ginger, turmeric, and horticultural products have shown promise. International demand for Lakadong turmeric is increasing.

17. Impact of Climate Change

Unpredictable rainfall, rising temperatures, and soil degradation pose serious threats to agriculture in Meghalaya. Adaptive practices are essential.

18. Success Stories in Meghalaya Agriculture

Several success stories highlight the potential for growth:

The Lakadong turmeric project.

Sustainable jhum alternatives in Ri-Bhoi district.

19. Future Prospects and Recommendations

To ensure sustainable growth, Meghalaya must focus on:

Diversification of crops.

Strengthening agricultural infrastructure.

Promoting agroforestry and organic farming.

Enhancing market access through e-commerce platforms.

Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP)

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Meghalaya, nestled in the picturesque hills of Northeast India, is known for its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique matrilineal society. However, beneath its scenic beauty lies an economy striving for growth and stability. A key indicator of this economic performance is the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP). Let's delve into the intricacies of Meghalaya's GSDP, exploring its trends, challenges, and potential.

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Understanding GSDP

GSDP is the total value of all final goods and services produced within a state's borders during a specific period. It serves as a comprehensive measure of a state's economic health, reflecting the overall output and income generated within its territory.

Meghalaya's GSDP: Trends and Growth

Meghalaya's GSDP has witnessed a steady, albeit moderate, growth trajectory in recent years. While the state's economy is relatively small compared to national giants, it has shown resilience and potential for expansion.

Key highlights of Meghalaya's GSDP include:

Growth Rate: The GSDP growth rate has fluctuated, influenced by factors such as agricultural output, infrastructure development, and investment inflows. In recent years, the growth rate has hovered around 5-7%, with projections indicating a potential for higher growth in the coming years.

Sectoral Contribution: Meghalaya's economy is primarily agrarian, with a significant portion of the population engaged in agriculture and allied activities. However, the service sector has emerged as a major contributor to GSDP, driven by tourism, trade, and real estate. The industrial sector, though comparatively smaller, is gradually gaining momentum, particularly in areas like mining and quarrying, and food processing.

Per Capita Income: Meghalaya's per capita income, while lower than the national average, has shown a gradual upward trend. This indicates improving living standards and increased purchasing power among the state's residents.

Challenges and Opportunities

Despite its growth potential, Meghalaya faces several challenges in its pursuit of sustained economic development. These include:

Limited Infrastructure: Inadequate infrastructure, particularly in areas like transportation and connectivity, poses a significant hurdle to economic growth. The hilly terrain and remoteness of certain regions further exacerbate this challenge.

Unemployment: Unemployment, particularly among the youth, remains a pressing concern. Skill development and job creation initiatives are crucial to address this issue.

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Dependence on Agriculture: While agriculture is a vital sector, over-reliance on it can make the economy vulnerable to climatic variations and market fluctuations. Diversification into other sectors is essential for long-term economic stability.

However, Meghalaya also possesses unique opportunities that can drive its economic growth:

Tourism Potential: The state's breathtaking natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and unique cultural heritage offer immense tourism potential. Sustainable tourism development can generate employment opportunities and boost revenue generation.

Natural Resources: Meghalaya is endowed with abundant natural resources, including minerals, forests, and water resources. Responsible exploitation of these resources can contribute significantly to economic growth.

Entrepreneurship and Innovation: Promoting entrepreneurship and fostering a culture of innovation can unlock new growth avenues and create employment opportunities.

Government Initiatives

The Meghalaya government has undertaken various initiatives to promote economic growth and enhance GSDP. These include:

Infrastructure Development: Investing in infrastructure projects, such as road construction, power generation, and telecommunications, to improve connectivity and facilitate economic activity.

Tourism Promotion: Promoting Meghalaya as a prime tourist destination through marketing campaigns, infrastructure development, and skill development programs for tourism professionals.

Investment Attraction: Creating a conducive investment climate through policy reforms, ease of doing business initiatives, and incentives for investors.

Skill Development: Implementing skill development programs to enhance employability and equip the workforce with the necessary skills for emerging industries.

Overview of Meghalaya's Economy

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Meghalaya, often referred to as the "Abode of Clouds," is a northeastern state in India known for its lush green landscapes, rich biodiversity, and unique cultural heritage. Beyond its scenic beauty, Meghalaya's economy reflects a blend of traditional and modern practices, shaped by its geographical location, natural resources, and socio-economic dynamics. Below is a detailed analysis of Meghalaya's economy.

1. Geographical and Demographic Context

Geography: Meghalaya spans over 22,429 square kilometers, characterized by hilly terrains, high rainfall, and abundant forests.

Population: With a population of approximately 3.8 million (Census 2011), the state is predominantly rural, with tribal communities forming the majority.

Urbanization: Shillong, the capital, serves as the economic and administrative hub.

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2. Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP)

GSDP Growth: Meghalaya's GSDP at constant prices has shown a moderate growth rate, attributed to the states agricultural base and emerging service sectors.

Sectoral Contribution:

Primary Sector: Contributes around 20-25% of GSDP.

Secondary Sector: Accounts for 15-20% with mining and small-scale industries.

Tertiary Sector: Dominates the economy, contributing over 50%, driven by services like tourism, trade, and administration.

3. Agriculture and Allied Activities

Role in Economy: Agriculture is the backbone, employing over 70% of the population.

Key Crops:

Food crops: Rice, maize, and millet.

Cash crops: Areca nut, ginger, turmeric, and black pepper.

Horticulture: The state is renowned for its oranges, pineapples, and bananas.

Shifting Cultivation (Jhum): Traditional practices like shifting cultivation remain prevalent, although efforts are underway to encourage settled farming.

4. Forestry

Forest Cover: Over 75% of Meghalayas geographical area is under forest cover, rich in biodiversity.

Economic Contribution: Forestry supports livelihoods through timber, medicinal plants, and non-timber forest products.

Challenges: Deforestation and overexploitation are concerns.

5. Mining and Natural Resources

Key Resources:

Coal: Known for high-quality coal, though unscientific mining practices pose environmental concerns.

Limestone: Used in cement production.

Other minerals: Uranium, granite, and clay.

Economic Impact:

Mining significantly contributes to state revenue.

Environmental degradation and regulatory challenges affect sustainable exploitation.

6. Industry and Manufacturing

Industrial Landscape:

Dominated by small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

Sectors include food processing, handicrafts, and cement production.

Major Industrial Hubs: Shillong and Jaintia Hills.

Challenges: Inadequate infrastructure and remoteness hinder large-scale industrialization.

7. Service Sector

Tourism:

Meghalaya's natural attractions, such as Cherrapunji, Dawki, and the living root bridges, drive its tourism economy.

Adventure tourism and cultural festivals attract both domestic and international tourists.

Trade and Commerce: Acts as a key contributor, facilitated by Shillongs role as a commercial hub.

Banking and Finance:

Limited penetration of banking services in rural areas.

Growth of microfinance institutions supporting small businesses.

8. Infrastructure Development

Transport:

Roadways: National and state highways connect the major regions.

Railways: Limited connectivity, with expansion plans underway.

Airways: Shillong Airport connects the state to other parts of India.

Energy:

Hydropower potential: Estimated at 3,000 MW, but underutilized.

Renewable Energy: Solar and wind energy projects gaining traction.

Digital Connectivity: Improvement in internet penetration and digital services.

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9. Education and Human Resources

Literacy Rate: High literacy rate (~75%), but challenges remain in quality education and higher studies.

Skill Development: Focus on vocational training and employment generation, particularly in sectors like tourism and handicrafts.

10. Challenges

Geographical Constraints: Hilly terrains and remoteness hinder large-scale development.

Environmental Concerns: Deforestation, unregulated mining, and climate change pose risks.

Unemployment: Limited industrial base and formal job opportunities.

Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate transport and energy infrastructure.

Regulatory Hurdles: Complex land tenure systems and environmental regulations.

11. Government Initiatives

Mission Organic Value Chain Development: Promotes organic farming practices.

Integrated Basin Development and Livelihood Promotion Programme (IBDLP): Aims at holistic rural development.

Tourism Policy 2020: Focus on eco-tourism and cultural tourism.

Skill Meghalaya: Addresses unemployment through vocational training programs.

12. Future Prospects

Sustainable Mining: Adoption of eco-friendly practices to balance economic benefits with environmental protection.

Tourism Expansion: Development of infrastructure and promotion of unexplored destinations.

Agro-Based Industries: Enhancing value addition and marketing of horticultural products.

Digital Economy: Leveraging technology for e-governance and rural entrepreneurship.

09.02.18 Meghalaya(MeghalayaPSC) Current Affairs

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NORTH-EASTERN STATES

  • Manipur to set up fast-track court for drug offenders: CM

 

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  • Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh  said a fast-track court will be set up by March to try increasing drugs-related cases in the state.

 

  • Manipur had become a conduit for drug trafficking in the northeast since border trade with Myanmar was legalised in 1995.

 

  • Officials are concerned over increasing smugglings of gold, precious stones, narcotics drugs and chemicals used in manufacturing drugs.

 

 

 

INTERNATIONAL

 

·        India Ranks 44th In Global Intellectual Property Index, US Tops

 

  • India increased “substantially”its score in the International Intellectual Property (IP) Index, ranking 44th among 50 nations, according to the US Chambers of Commerce report.
  • Last year, India ranked 43rd out of 45 countries in the Index.
  • The top 3 countries in  the list are-
  1. The USA.
  2. The United Kingdom.
  3. Sweden

 

  • India’s overall score has increased substantially from 25% in the 5th edition of the Index to 30% in the 6th edition, according to the annual report prepared by the Global Innovation Policy Centre (GIPC)of the US Chambers of Commerce.

 

·        Guinness World Record attempted for playing Ice Hockey at highest altitude

 

  • To set a record in the Guinness book for ice hockey on the world’s highest altitude, an international level tournament was organized at Chiba Kargyam in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir.
  • Five international teams from USA, Germany, Canada, Slovakia and Russia and a local team participated in the tournament.
  • It was jointly organized by the Hockey Foundation, USA, Ladakh Winter Sports Club and Lalok Winter Sports Association.
  • AIR correspondent reports that with a mission to set a record in Guinness World Record, the ice hockey tournament was held at recently built international standards open ice hockey rink at an altitude of 4371 meters above the sea level.

 

  • 2018 Winter Olympics opening ceremony
  • The opening ceremony of the 2018 Winter Olympics will take place at the Pyeongchang Olympic Stadium in Pyeongchang, South Korea on February 9, 2018.

 

  • The site of the opening ceremony Pyeongchang Olympic Stadium was built specifically for the games.

 

  • These Games will feature 102 events in fifteen sports disciplines.

 

  • Peace will be the central theme of the games.

 

 

NATIONAL

 

  • 11 states are now open defecation free: Government

 

  • The government informed the Lok Sabha that till date 11 states and union territories (UTs) have been declared open defecation free (ODF) under Swachh Bharat Mission.

 

  • The government is taking various steps under the SBM to make all states in the country ODF, the minister of state in the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, Ramesh Chandappa Jigajinagi, said in a written reply.

 

·        Prime Minister Narendra Modi embarks on 4-day visit to Palestine, UAE, Oman

 

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit the Gulf and West Asian regionfor the fifth time since 2015.
  • In his statement prior to his departure to Palestine, United Arab Emirates, and Oman, the Prime Minister said, this region is a key priority in India’s external engagement and he is looking forward to strengthening India’s growing and important ties with West Asia and the Gulf region through the visit. He said India enjoy vibrant multi-dimensional ties with the countries in West Asia.
  • Expressing his gratitude to the King Abdullah II of Jordan for facilitating the transit, he said he looks forward to meeting him in Amman today.
  • On his first visit to Palestine, he was looking forward to the discussions with President Mahmoud Abbas and reaffirmed India’s support for the Palestinian people and the development of Palestine.

 

·        First Ever Chat Based Job Search App ‘Empzilla’ Launched

  • The first ever of its kind in the country chat-based job search mobile app ‘Empzilla‘ is being launched that will do away with existing limitations of employers and job seekers making selection process quick and cost-effective.
  • The mobile app gets the conversation between employers and job seekers going in seconds and the latter can chat with the potential employers.

 

 

 

·        Haryana emerges as first champion of Khelo India School Games with 38 gold medals

 

  • Haryana youngsters outclassed others by achieving the highest number of medal tally in the inaugural edition of the Khelo India School Games.
  • The competition concluded in New Delhi.
  • The sports powerhouse won 102 medals including 38 gold medals, 26 silver medals, 38 Bronze medals. Maharashtra (110) finished second overall while Delhi (94) came third.
  • Punjab and Kerala won the boys’ and girls’ gold medals respectively in Basketball competition.
  • On the final day, Haryana emerged with the best haul of five medals, including one gold, two silver, and two bronze medals.
  • Haryana archers showed impressive performance and won one gold medal on the final day. It clinched two silver and two bronze medals from Archery on the same day.

 

 

·        CCEA approves enhancement of target under Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana

 

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  • The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved to enhance target base of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) from 5 crore to 8 crores.
  • The revised target of PMUY will be achieved by 2020 with an additional allocation of Rs. 4,800 crore.
  • The decision comes in the wake of the huge response to PMUY from the women particularly in rural areas and to cover such households not having LPG connection.
  • This move will address practical difficulty faced in implementation of MUY, namely, targeting genuinely poor households left out of Socio-Economic Cards.

08.02.18 Meghalaya(MeghalayaPSC) Current Affairs

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NORTH-EASTERN STATES

 

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi to address elections rallies at Sonamura & Kailasahar in Tripura

 

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will address rallies at Sonamurain Sipahijala districtand Kailasahar in Unakoti district.
  • Assam Chief Minister and BJP leader Sarbanand Sonowal addressed public meetings in Teliamura and Majlishpur yesterday.
  • Assam’s former Chief Minister and Congress leader Tarun Gogoi campaigned in Badarghat constituency.
  • Tripura Chief Minister Manik Sarkar addressed rallies in Kumar ghat and Kailasahar of Unakoti district. The state will go to polls on the 18th of this month to elect a new assembly.
  • Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be addressing rallies in Sonamura of Sipahijala and Kailasahar of Kailasahar districts. In view of PM’s rally, the security arrangement has been beefed up in the state.
  • Also, yesterday addressing a rally in Teliamura, Assam’s Chief Minister Sarbanand Sonowal Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants to develop each and every state of the country.

 

 

INTERNATIONAL

 

·        Forbes Releases Its First-Ever Cryptocurrency Rich List

 

  • Business magazine Forbes released its first-ever Crypto Rich List, comprising 20 wealthiest peoplein the cryptocurrency space.
  • The list was topped by Ripple Co-founder Chris Larsen, who is estimated to have a crypto net worth of $7.5-8 billion.
  • He is followed by Ethereum Co-founder Joseph Lubin ($1-5 billion) and Founder of cryptocurrency exchange Binance Changpeng Zhao ($1.1-2 billion).

 

·        Bermuda Becomes first Country In World To Abolish Same-Sex Marriage

 

  • Bermuda becomes the first country to legalize and then repeal same-sex marriage.
  • Bermuda’s governor John Rankin approved a bill reversing the right of gay couples to marry, despite a supreme court ruling last year authorizing same-sex marriage.

 

 

NATIONAL

 

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·        Google and NCERT Join Hands To Teach Students Digital Safety

 

  • Google and National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT)signed a pact to integrate a course on ‘Digital Citizenship and Safety’ in information and communication technology curriculum.
  • It was signed on the occasion of Safer Internet Day (06th February).
  • The curriculum developed by NCERT in collaboration with Google will be used to train students from class I – class XII across 1.4 million schools in India where they will learn how to become good and responsible digital citizens. The curriculum is spread into four themes – being smart, being safe, being a digital citizen and being future ready.

 

·        HAL Develops First Hawk-I Flight

 

  • The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited developed the first flight of Hawk-i with indigenous Real Time Operating System (RTOS).
  • Hawk-i is the first indigenous RTOS developed in India from scratch and certified by Center for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC). 
  • The RTOSis the system software which provides a standard run-time environment for real-time applications execution in a safe and reliable manner.

 

·        Fifth South Asia Region Public Procurement Conference Held In New Delhi

 

  • The Fifth edition of South Asia Region Public Procurement Conferencewas held in New Delhi.
  • It was hosted by Public Procurement Division (PPD) of Ministry of Finance and All India Management Association (AIMA).
  • It was held under auspices of South Asia Region Public Procurement Network (SARPPN),which is sponsored and facilitated by the World Bank, Asian Development Bank, and Islamic Development Bank.
  • The theme this edition of the conference was “Public Procurement and Service Delivery”.

 

 

·        Union Cabinet approves implementation of PMRF scheme gives nod to enhance beneficiaries under Ujjwala Yojana from 5 to 8 crores

 

 

  • Union Cabinet approved implementation of Prime Minister’s Research Fellows (PMRF) schemeat a total cost of 1,650 crore rupees for a period of seven years beginning 2018-19. The scheme was announced in the Union Budget for 2018-19.
  • Under this scheme, the best students who have completed or are in the final year of B. Tech or Integrated M.Tech or M.Sc. in Science and Technology streams from IISc or IITs or NITs or IISERs or IIITs will be offered direct admission in the Ph.D. programme in the IITs or IISc.
  • Such students, who fulfill the eligibility criteria, and are shortlisted through a selection process, as laid down in the PMRF Guidelines, will be offered a fellowship of 70 thousand rupees per month for the first two years, 75 thousand rupees per month for the 3rd year and 80 thousand rupees per month in the 4th and 5th years.

 

·        Defence Ministry constitutes a 13-member advisory committee to expedite capital acquisition for Armed Forces modernisation

 

  • Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharamanconstituted a 13-member advisory committee to monitor and expedite capital acquisition projects for the modernization of the armed forces.
  • In a statement, the Ministry said, the committee will undertake an independent review and check the status of ongoing critical projects worth more than 500 crore rupees.
  • The panel will suggest measures to improve the capital acquisition process.
  • The committee, headed by Vinay Sheel Oberoi, will have to present an initial status report on identified projects to the Defence Minister by March 31.

 

  • Centre to link driving licence with Aadhaar

 

  • The Centre is in the process of linking driving licences with Aadhaar number to weed out fake licences and a software for this covering all states on a real time basis is under preparation, the Supreme Court was told.

 

  • A bench comprising Justices Madan B Lokur and Deepak Gupta was informed about it by a court-appointed committee on road safety headed by former Supreme Court judge Justice K S Radhakrishnan.

 

  • This assumes significance as a five-judge Constitution bench headed by Chief Justice Dipak Misra is currently hearing a clutch of petitions challenging the constitutional validity of the Aadhaar scheme and the enabling 2016 law.

 

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  • ISRO sets up 473 Village Resource Centres for rural development

 

  • To demonstrate the potential of satellite technology for development of rural areas, ISRO established Village Resource Centres (VRCs) on a pilot scale, in association with selected NGOs, Trusts and State Government Departments.

 

  • VRCs have provided various space technology enabled services such as tele-healthcare, tele-education, natural resources information, advisories related to agriculture, career guidance to rural students, skill development and vocational training etc.

 

  • About Rs 18 crores was spent for establishing 473 VRCs.

 

·        Development of Solar Cities scheme: 60 Solar Cities to be developed

  • Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE)under its “Development of Solar Cities” scheme sanctioned the development of 60 Solar Cities including 13 Pilot and 5 Model Cities up to 12th Five-year Plan period (2012–2017).
  • So far, master plans of 49 Solar Cities have been prepared.
  • Under it, local Governments are motivated for adopting renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency measures.
  • Solar City developed under this scheme will have all types of renewable energy based projects like solar, wind, biomass, small hydro, waste to energy.

·        Nuclear-Capable Prithvi-II Missile Successfully Test-Fired

  • India successfully test-fired its indigenously developed nuclear capable Prithvi-II missile as part of a user trial by the Army from Integrated Test Range at Chandipur, in Odisha. It is a surface-to-surface missile and has a strike range of 350 km.
  • Prithvi-II is capable of carrying 500-1,000 kilogram of warheads and is thrust by liquid propulsion twin engines.
  • Inducted into the Armed forces of the country in 2003, the nine-meter-tall, single-stage liquid-fuelled Prithvi-II is the first missile to have been developed by the DRDO under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).

 

  • Jhulan Goswami first female cricketer to take 200 ODI wickets

 

  • India’s veteran pacer Jhulan Goswami has added another feather to her illustrious cap by becoming the first female cricketer to take 200 ODI wickets.

  • Goswami achieved the feat during the second ODI between India and South Africa.

 

  • The 35-year-old, playing her 166th ODI, dismissed opener Laura Wolvaardt for her 200th scalp.

 

  • She was adjudged ICC Women Cricketer of the Year in 2007.

 

06.02.18 Meghalaya(MeghalayaPSC) Current Affairs

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NORTH-EASTERN STATES

  • IOC to invest Rs 3,400 crore in Assam to augment operations

 

  • Indian Oil Corporation will invest Rs3,400 crore in Assam over the next five years to expand its operations by setting up new units as well as upgrading the existing ones.
  • The company will sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Assam Government to this effect at the two-day ‘Advantage Assam – Global Investors Summit 2018’, beginning in Guwahati.
  • They are signing an MoU with the state government that will empower us to invest Rs 3,400 crore in Assam over the next five years.
  • This will be for various projects across the state,” Indian Oil Corporation, Executive Director (IndianOil-AOD), Dipankar Ray.

 

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INTERNATIONAL

 

  • Maldives declares state of emergency

 

  • Maldivian President Abdulla Yameen has declared a 15-day state of Emergency, his aide Azima Shukoor announced on state television.

 

  • The move gives sweeping powers to security forces to arrest and detain suspects as Yameen refuses to comply with a Supreme Court order to release political prisoners.

 

  • The latest crisis was triggered when the Maldivian Supreme Court ordered the release of some opposition leaders, including former president Mohammed Nasheed, after overturning their “terrorism” convictions.

 

 

  • Dubai named the world’s busiest International Airport

 

  • Dubai International Airport says it has held on to its No 1 ranking as the world’s busiest airport for ‘international travel’, after seeing some 88.2 million passengers in 2017.

  • Dubai International Airport first surpassed London Heathrow as the world’s busiest airport for international traffic in 2014.

 

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  • It has maintained the title ever since, with some 90 airlines flying into skyscraper-studded Dubai.

 

  • The airport is home to the long-haul carrier Emirates.

 

  • Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in Georgia remains the world’s busiest airport overall.

 

 

·        Japan Launches Smallest Rocket Ever To Carry Tiny Satellite into Orbit

 

  • The Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA)launched the world’s smallest rocket with the ability to put a tiny satellite into orbit.
  • The rocket lifted off from the Uchinoura Space Center.
  • It carried a microsatellite TRICOM-1R, a three-unit CubeSat weighing about 3 kilograms.
  • This satellite launch was a re-flight of the TRICOM-1 mission, which was lost in SS-520’s failure in 2017.
  • The launch was aimed at testing the ability of JAXA to launch low-cost rockets that can put microsatellites into space at affordable rates.

 

NATIONAL

 

·        India contributes $1 million to UN Development Partnership Fund

 

  • India contributed additional $1 million to India-UN Development Partnership Fund, earmarked for South-South cooperation.
  • The contribution aims to intensify its partnerships with other developing countries in the south.
  • India has pledged a multi-year contribution of $100 million to the fund establishment in June 2017.
  • The fund was set up on 9 June 2017 on occasion of the World Oceans Day as a partnership between India and United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation.

·        International company Singtel to invest 2649 crores in Bharati Telecom

 

  • Singapore Telecommunications (Singtel) spend up to 2643 crores on shares in India’s Bharti Telecom, lifting its stake slightly in the holding company for Bharti Airtel to just under half.
  • India’s telecommunications sector has been hit hard by a price war since the entry of carrier Reliance Jio, the telecoms arm of Reliance Industries Ltd, more than a year ago.
  • The purchase worth as much as 26.5 billion rupees could increase Singtel’s stake in Bharti Telecom by up to 1.7 percentage points to 48.9 percent and its holding in Bharti Airtel, the country’s biggest mobile carrier, by up to 0.9 percentage points to 39.5 percent.
  • The deal will be done via a preferential share allotment.

 

 

  • Maharashtra govt approves new wildlife sanctuary at Ghodazari

 

  • The Maharashtra government has approved Ghodazari in Chandrapur district as a new wildlife sanctuary in the state.

 

  • The decision was taken at the 13th meeting of the Maharashtra State Board for Wildlife, chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.

 

  • The sanctuary, in the North East of Tadoba, will include 159 sq km of Brahmapuri forest.

 

·        India Successfully Test-Fires Nuclear-Capable Agni-I Missile

 

  • India successfully test-fired the indigenously developed short-range nuclear capable Agni-I ballistic missile.
  • The missile was fired from the Abdul Kalam Island off Odisha coast.
  • The test was conducted by the Strategic Force Command of the Indian Army.
  • The range of Missile is 700 km.
  • It was 18th version of Agni-I.

 

 

·        Prime Minister Narendra Modi to go on 4-day visit to Palestine, UAE, Oman on February 9

 

  • Prime Minister Narendra Modiwill have a packed schedule during his four days visit to Palestine, UAE, and Oman from ninth of this month.
  • This will be the first-ever visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Palestine, and Prime Minister Modi’s second visit to UAE and first to Oman.
  • During the visit, the Prime Minister will hold discussions on matters of mutual interest with their leaders, apart from participating in many community events.
  • In Dubai, Prime Minister would be addressing the Sixth World Government Summit being at which India has been extended ‘Guest of Honour’ status. Joint Secretary (Gulf).

 

  • IWAI Signs Project Agreement With World Bank For Jal Marg Vikas Project.

 

 

  • Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI)signed a project agreement with the World Bank for Jal Marg Vikas Project on river Ganga.
  • The World Bank entered into a USD 375 million loan agreement with the Department of Economic Affairs, Union Ministry of Finance for Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP).
  • Jal Marg Vikas Project, which is expected to be completed by March 2023, is being implemented with the financial and technical support of the World Bank.

 

04-05.02.18 Meghalaya(MeghalayaPSC) Current Affairs

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NORTH-EASTERN STATES

  • Arunachal Pradesh nods to much awaited Advertisement Policy 2018

 

  • Arunachal Pradeshgave a nod to much awaited “Arunachal Pradesh Advertisement Policy 2018.” State Cabinet headed by Chief Minister Pema Khandu approved Arunachal Pradesh Advertisement Policy 2018 which will enable the government to make payment of government advertisement bills to media houses on a timely basis.
  • In another decision, the Cabinet approved the release of gratuitous relief of Rs 2,000 for all contingency and casual workers serving under Arunachal Government.
  • Apart from approving the creation of 25 posts of Assistant Professors for government colleges of the state under Rashtriya Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (RUSA), the Cabinet also approved enhancement of salary of teachers working under SSA and RMSA on contractual basis up to 22% with effect from April 1, 2018.
  • The Cabinet directed the education department to ensure that salaries are disbursed by the first week of the subsequent month through the Aadhaar-based DBT through PFMS method. 

    INTERNATIONAL

     

    • World Cancer Day: 4 February

     

    • World Cancer Day is an international day marked on February 4 to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment.

     

    • World Cancer Day was founded by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) to support the goals of the World Cancer Declaration, written in 2008.

     

    • The primary goal of the World Cancer Day is to significantly reduce illness and death caused by cancer by 2020.

     

    • The theme for the World Cancer Day 2016-2018 is ‘We can. I can.’

     

    • Nepal gets a high Rs. 650 crore outlay

     

    • India’s annual financial allocation to Nepal for 2018-19 has nearly doubled under the Union Budget presented on February 1.

     

    • The External Affairs Ministry has been allocated a total Rs. 15,011 crore, which indicates a marginal increase of Rs. 1,321 crore over the previous year’s grant.

     

    • For India’s development and diplomatic engagement under the ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy, the Budget has allocated Rs. 5545 crore.

     

    • Bhutan is traditionally the largest recipient of Ministry’s allocation.

     

     

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    NATIONAL

     

    • Venkaiah Naidu to Inaugurate First International Kala Mela

     

    • The Vice President of India Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu will inaugurate the First International Kala Mela in New Delhi on February 4.
    • The Minister of State for Culture (Independent Charge) and Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Dr. Mahesh Sharma will also grace the occasion.

     

    • Lalit Kala Akademi, the premier institution for the promotion of Art and Culture is organizing it at Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, New Delhi (IGNCA).

     

    • Environment Ministry launches ‘Green Good Deeds’ campaign

     

    • Environment Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan has appealed to the teaching community to join the “Green Good Deeds” campaign, launched by his Ministry to sensitise the people about climate change and global warming.

     

    • The Minister reminded the teachers of their “Green Social Responsibility similar to corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

     

    • CRISIL, SIDBI Launch India’s First MSE Sentiment Index

     

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    • The Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Shri Arun Jaitley launched CriSidEx , India’s first sentiment index for micro and small enterprises ( MSEs) developed jointly by CRISIL & SIDBI.

     

    • CriSidEx is a composite index based on a diffusion index of 8 parameters and measures MSE business sentiment on a scale of 0 (extremely negative ) to 200 ( extremely positive) .

     

    • The parametric feedback was captured through a survey of 1100 MSEs in November –December.

     

    • CriSidEx will have 2 indices , one for the ‘survey quarter’ and another for the ‘next quarter’ once a trend emerges after few rounds of the survey , providing independent time series data.

     

    • The crucial benefit of CriSidEx is that its readings will flag potential headwinds and changes in production cycles and thus help improve market efficiencies and by capturing the sentiment of exporters and importers , it will also offer actionable indicators on foreign trade.

     

    • India’s biggest floating island released in Neknampur lake

     

    • On the occasion of World Wetland Day, city-based NGO Dhruvansh has introduced biggest floating island of India at Neknampur Lake, Hyderabad.
    • The duo of Dhruvansh NGO, Madhulika and Neeraj Singh started Neknampur restoration programme in June 2016 adopting various cost effective methodologies to clean the lake.
    • After successful introduction of 10×10 feet floating islands last year, the NGO introduced 2,500 square feet floating island with 3,500 wetland plants floating on this platform.

     

    • “A Century is Not Enough”: Autobiography of Sourav Ganguly

     

    • Former Team India captain Sourav Ganguly’s autobiography is soon-to-be-published and it is named “A Century is Not Enough”.

     

    • The book is co-authored by Gautam Bhattacharya and published by Juggernaut Books.

     

    • The book covers the ups and downs in more than a decade long career of the former Indian captain fondly called ‘Dada’.

     

    ·        Railways Ministry may introduce dynamic pricing system

     

    • The Railways Ministrythe current flex-fare system and is considering introducing a dynamic pricing system for train tickets, Railway Minister Piyush Goyal has said. Under dynamic pricing system, fares will be decided as per the season and demand.

     

    • The Fares will be automatically adjusted via artificial intelligence, algorithms or technology, to help trains have more occupancy.

    ·        India Lifts U-19 World Cup 2018

    • India defeated Australia to lift the Under 19 World cup for the fourth time.
    • The Men in Blue defeated the three-time champions Australia at Bay Oval, New Zealand.

     

    • Manjot Kalra scored a sensational unbeaten century and was named Man of the Match.

     

    • Shubman Gill was declared man of the series.

     

03.02.18 Meghalaya(MeghalayaPSC) Current Affairs

by

NORTH-EASTERN STATES

  • Arunachali yak the first to be registered as new breed

 

  • Yaks, found in the mountainous regions of Arunachal Pradesh, have been registered by the Karnal-based National Bureau of Animal Genetics Resources (NBAGR) as a distinct breed known as Arunachali yak, this being the first instance of such a registration in the country. Union agriculture minister Radha Mohan Singh will formally award the recognition in New Delhi on Wednesday to the representatives of National Research Centre on Yak (NRCY) based at Dirang in Arunachal Pradesh.

 

  • The study found that Arunachali yaks are characterized by their predominantly black body colour and the high fat content in their milk which sometimes goes up to 7.45%. A lactating Arunachali yak produces, on an average, 1.3 kg milk per day. Though the milk is comparatively of poor quantity, it is compensated by the high fat content which makes it useful to produce different milk products.

 

  • However, scientific interventions, especially in the areas of breeding and rearing, have been able to slow down the decline of population as Arunachali yaks still remain the main source of livelihood for many Brokpas (yak rearers). West Kameng and Tawang are mainly dominated by the Monpa community, which treats the yaks as an asset for the rural economy, and rears these animals in organized farms or semi-migratory systems.

 

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INTERNATIONAL

 

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  • Inland Waterways Authority of India signs agreement with World Bank

 

  • Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) signed a project agreement with the World Bank, even as the latter entered into a US $ 375 million loan agreement with the Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance for Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP).

 

  • The signing of the Agreement follows the approval of  the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, for the implementation of the US $ 800 million JMVP for capacity augmentation of navigation on National Waterway-1(River Ganga) from Varanasi to Haldia.

 

  • Out of the remaining amount, US $ 380 million is to be sourced through the Government of India counterpart funds from budgetary allocation and proceeds from the bond issue.

 

  • Another US $ 45 million will come from private sector participation under the PPP mode.

 

  • The JMVP, which is expected to be completed by March, 2023, is being implemented with the financial and technical support of the World Bank.

 

  • The project will enable commercial navigation of vessels with the capacity of 1500-2,000 tons on NW-I.

 

 

·        UAE Launches World’s Longest Zip Line

 

  • The United Arab Emiratesmade a record by opening the world’s longest zip line, measuring 83 kmin length.
  • Guinness World Records officials certified the zip line in Ras al-Khaimah.
  • The Jebel Jais Flight takes thrill-seekers atop the country’s largest mountain peak, from a launch pad 1,680 meters (5,512 feet) above sea level.

 

NATIONAL

 

  • Two athletes to represent India at the Winter Olympics

 

  • Luger Shiva Keshavan and cross-country skier Jagdish Singh will represent India at the PyeongChang Winter Olympicswhich begins on February 9.

  • Thirty-six-year-old Keshavan, the country’s best known Winter Olympian, will be taking part in his sixth Games since his debut at Nagano in Japan in 1998.

  • Meanwhile, this will be Jagdish Singh’s maiden Winter Games appearance.

 

  • Textbooks in 4 states to have QR codes: Nilekani

 

  • Schools in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and Rajasthanwill have QR codes in their textbooks, enabling students to view video tutorial and customized content from smartphones, informed.

 

  • As part of the initiative, textbooks will have digital links with a QR code printed at the lesson and this code will have digital material related to the particular concept, which could be a short video lecture or a tutorial or a customized content.

 

  • Sharing his experiences of working with the government, Nandan said that one of things that he learnt is that government is a big amplifier. “If intervention happens at an early stage, impact will be bigger. The government is currently spending Rs 18,000 crore on education. At the other end, philanthropic capital is also being funded in the sector.

 

  • Dust mitigation plan must for firms

 

  • The Environment Ministry has made it mandatory for companies seeking environment clearance to ensure that they put in place a dust mitigation plan.

 

  • The requirements, specified in a gazette notification on January 25, say that roads leading to or at construction sites must be paved and black-topped. There could be no soil excavation without adequate dust mitigation measures in place. No loose soil, sand, construction waste could be left uncovered. A water sprinkling system was mandatory, and the measures taken should be prominently displayed at the construction site. Moreover, the grinding and cutting of building materials in open area were prohibited and no uncovered vehicles carrying construction material and waste would be permitted.

 

  • The standards were developed by the Central Pollution Control Board as part of the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS), and will now empower the organisation to fine companies and agencies for not complying with norms.

 

  • Road dust contributed 56% of all PM10 pollution, while it was 38% for PM2.5.

 

  • Before PM2.5 became the focus of attention — for its role in lodging itself in the lungs and for being a key component of diesel emissions — dust was the key villain for a long time. Dust is a generic term for a vast mix of metals and non-metals — silicon, aluminium, titanium, manganese, copper, barium, antimony, selenium and zinc.

 

Gk bit  – PM (particulate matter)

 

  • PM stands for particulate matter (also called particle pollution): the term for a mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Some particles, such as dust, dirt, soot, or smoke, are large or dark enough to be seen with the naked eye. Others are so small they can only be detected using an electron microscope.

 

Particle pollution includes:

 

 

  • PM10 : inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 10 micrometers and smaller; and

 

  • 5: fine inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers and smaller.

 

 

  • The average human hair is about 70 micrometers in diameter – making it 30 times larger than the largest fine particle.

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