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A Shankar IAS Academy Initiative
GIST OF
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS - 2016-17
TM
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GIST OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 2016-17

1. INDIA AND UNHRC
Why in news?
UNHRC Council members recommended a revision in Indias policies on many subjects.
Indias Foreign Contribution Regulatory Act (FCRA), a repeal of the Armed Forces Special Powers Act,
decriminalisation of homosexuality and the inclusion of marital rape in Indian laws on sexual violence are
laws discussed in UNHRC.
What is the issue?
The attack on the FCRA act came from nearly a dozen countries, mostly from Europe.
The charge was led by the U.S. and Germany, who called the Act and the governments actions arbitrary.
India must defend the right to freedom of association, which includes the ability of civil society organisations
to access foreign funding, and protect human rights defenders effectively against harassment and
intimidation, as said by the German Ambassador.
While the U.S. envoy decried the complete lack of transparency in the implementation of the FCRA.
Modification in FCRA has led to the licences of about 14,000 of NGOs being cancelled because of alleged
violations.
The government also faced criticism on violence against religious minorities from a number of countries.
Nearly all 112 countries at the 5-yearly review of Indias record called for India to ratify the UN Additional
Convention against Torture (CAT).
India is one of only nine countries which havent yet implemented the Torture convention, despite signing on
to it in 1997.
In 2012, India had also given a unilateral pledge to ratify CAT, but has yet to move forward on it, despite a
Supreme Court directive in the matter.
Responding to criticism from the countries at the HRC over the AFSPA, that gives forces operating in states
like Jammu Kashmir and Manipur immunity from prosecution.
India said the Act applies only to disturbed areas where the law and order machinery is dealing with exigent
circumstances like terrorism.
India won support from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka and Nepal, who said True to its multi-ethnic, multi-
religious and multi-linguistic characteristics, India has been successful in upholding the ethos of respect for
diversity and plurality in the country.
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2. CHINAS NEW AIRCRAFT CARRIER
Why in news?
China acquiring its second aircraft carrier to counter Indias defence.
What is the status of Chinese aircraft carrier?
China launched its first indigenous aircraft carrier on April 2017, which may be named Shandong started in
2013 and it is likely to be commissioned in 2020.
The two Chinese carriers are conventionally powered, not nuclear, which means they cannot be put on
extended deployment.
They lack the logistics capability to operate far away from Chinese shores.
3. CYPRUS QUESTION
Why in news?
In his meetings with Indian President and Prime Minister tomorrow (27th April 2017), President of Cyprus could seek
Indias help on the Cyprus question.
What is the issue?
The UN-patrolled Green Line that cuts through Cyprus has witnessed over 4 decades of conflict on its two
sides.
When Turkey invaded this island in 1974 which in the eastern Mediterranean and occupied 37% of it, Cyprus
has been a nation divided between Greek Cypriots and Turkish Cypriots.
The buffer zone passes right through the capital, Nicosia.
India has been supportive of Cyprus at international platforms just as Nicosia has consistently backed New
Delhi on Jammu and Kashmir.
What is the dispute about?
Cyprus gained independence from Britain in 1960 after Greek and Turkish Cypriots reached an agreement on
a constitution, but a standoff ensued after the first President proposed certain amendments.
The UN intervened and deployed a peacekeeping force.
Turkish forces invaded in 1974, occupied the islands northern part and expelled a large number of Greek
Cypriots.
A Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus recognised only by Turkey, was declared in 1983.
Many Turkish Cypriots emigrated to the north, settlers were allegedly brought in from the Turkish mainland,
and the door for Greek Cypriots to return was almost entirely shut.
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4. WHAT IS THE GREEN LINE AND UNFICYP?
The line, representing the demilitarised buffer zone is controlled by the United Nations Peacekeeping Force in
Cyprus (UNFICYP).
The 180-km-long stretch, several kilometres wide in places has seen no development over the last 40 years.
The force has been on the island since 1963, when inter-communal violence broke out.
Some 1,000 peacekeepers from 17 countries are currently in Cyprus.
India too deputes personnel to the conflict zone.
The UNFICYP, consequently, maintains close relations with civil society on both sides of the island.
The job of the civil affairs office is to help the two communities by supporting bi-communal activities.
The major impediment for the peace process is Turkey and its newly elected President.
5. SNAP ELECTIONS IN UK
Why in news?
Theresa May on 19th April 2017 has won overwhelming backing from MPs to hold a snap election on June 8.
What is a snap election?
A snap election is an election called earlier than expected.
It differs from a by-election by the fact that the winners will serve an entire term as opposed to the remainder
of an already established term.
An election would have to be held under the Fixed-term Parliaments Act of 2011, unless a two-thirds majority
of the House of Commons allowed otherwise.
The next election was due on May 7 2020.
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The House of Commons voted to override the Fixed-term Parliaments Act with the majority of 522 to 13,
calling for an early election.
Parliament will be formally dissolved on May 3.
6. TURKISH REFERENDUM
Why in news?
Turkish President RecepTayyipErdogan has won a constitutional referendum (got just over 51% votes) that makes him
the countrys most powerful ruler since the sultans.
What was decided in the referendum?
Right now Turkeys president is a largely ceremonial position but after the changes it will become a vastly
powerful position as both the head of the government and head of state.
In 2019, should Erdogan win another term in office, he will have powers allowing him to all but ignore
parliament, bypass checks on political interference in the appointment of judges, declare a state of emergency,
make some laws by decree and wield a vice-like grip over the bureaucracy.
Also, Mr Erdogan seems very likely to win a 2019 election, if that happenes, in theory, he could stay in office
until 2029.
7. BANNING NUCLEAR WEAPON
What is the issue?
A majority of nations, nuclear have-nots, now negotiating a historic United Nations treaty in New York to ban atomic
weapons.
Will a UN treaty to ban atomic weapons be another exercise in futility?
The above nations are demonstrating unprecedented moral leadership on a question that continues to
threaten human survival.
Predictably, the nine countries that currently possess these catastrophic arms, as well as others that are part of
the military blocs that some of them lead, are boycotting the talks that commenced last week.
Even so, the latter group can do little to prevent an agreement whose modest aim is the codification of the
essential illegality of this last remaining category of weapons of mass destruction, even if their complete
elimination is likely to prove more elusive.
What is the new area of focus?
A major game changer in the decades-long global debate on nuclear disarmament appears to be the greater
emphasis being placed on the humanitarian consequences of the testing and detonation of nuclear weapons.
This new focus has rightly shifted attention away from the conventional narrative of protection of national
sovereignty and security, one that legitimised an arms race among nuclear weapons states, inducing potential
aspirants to nurture superpower ambitions.
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Where it all began?
Current endeavours towards a comprehensive pact are a result of many building blocks towards total
abolition, beginning with the 1996 advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice which ruled that the
use of nuclear weapons had to be compatible with humanitarian law.
Yet, in a split verdict, the judges ruled that it could not pronounce definitively on the legality or otherwise of
their use in circumstances of extreme self-defence.
The landmark outcome was seized upon by many governments and activist groups to lobby the UN with
innumerable draft conventions and resolutions in the General Assembly calling for complete prohibition.
Notable have been the three conferences on the humanitarian impact of nuclear weapons the last one in
Vienna drew participation from over 150 nations and the UN.
Ever since, the idea that targeting populated areas with nuclear weapons would constitute a violation of
humanitarian law has gained traction.
Further, several resolutions of the UN General Assembly have affirmed that the use of nuclear weapons
constitutes a crime against humanity.
What are the factors that aid current efforts?
The rationale underpinning current efforts is also the need to address the prevailing anomaly on the road to
the prohibition of all types of weapons of mass destruction.
That task began with the ban on biological arms in 1975. Chemical weapons, anti-personnel landmines and
cluster munitions have been outlawed in more recent years.
8. IWT COMMISSIONERS MEET

Why in news?
India and Pakistan recently discussed hydroelectric projects and other such issues at the end of two day talks of Indus
water commissioners in Islamabad.
What is the issue with the Miyar project?
Discussions were held on Indias proposed Miyar, Lower Kalnai and PakalDul hydropower projects.
It also includes matters pertaining to exchange of data and conducting tours and meetings of Indus
Commission.
The Miyar Hydropower plant is located on MiyarNallah, a right bank tributary of Chenab River.
With the 120 MW-capacity it is located in Himachal Pradesh's LahaulSpiti district.
It is the run-of-the river project with a barrage type structure.
The design of the Miyar project was received by Pakistan from India in the year 2009.
Pakistan carried out a detailed review of the design following the guidelines mentioned in the treaty and
communicated its objections to India in the same year.
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Pakistan had objected to the placement of spillway, magnitude of pondage, intake and freeboard.
Pakistan has proposed a surface gated free-overflow spillway design.
India agreed to change design of the project.
What are the other issues?
However, on 1,500 MW PakalDul Hydropower plant and 48 MW Lower Kalnai, both sides could not come up
with any kind of consensus.
PakalDul hydropower project was being constructed on the Marusadar River -a major right bank tributary of
the Chena River in the Indian held Kashmir.
It is concrete faced rock fill dam.
The reservoir will store water every year and release it in the winter season.
Talking about the 48MW Lower Kalnai, the official said the project was being constructed by India on the
Lower Kalnai River, which was also a left bank tributary of the Chenab River.
Pakistan also raised its concern saying that there should be a mechanism of data exchange to ensure that the
reservoir was being filled as per guidelines.
Besides Miyar and Lower Kalnai, Pakistan has been flagging concerns over designs of India's PakalDul (1000
MW), Ratle (850 MW) and Kishanganga (330 MW) hydropower projects, being built or planned in the Indus
river basin, contending these violate the treaty.
9. GILGIT BALOCHISTAN-FIFTH PROVINCE
Why in news?
A Pakistani committee has recommended to Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif that Gilgit-Baltistan should be declared the
countrys fifth province. For 70 years Pakistan has avoided integrating its occupied parts of Kashmir for fear of
damaging its legal position.
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Background and implications
Gilgit-Baltistan has also suffered from a democratic deficit. For the 70 years of Pakistans existence the
inhabitants have not enjoyed full representation and, with a majority Shia and Ismaili population, they have
not always felt adequately represented in predominantly Sunni Pakistan.
There is no clear evidence for a third possible reason: that China might have pressured Pakistan because of
security concerns about the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) which traverses the full length of
Gilgit-Baltistan.
The move to integrate GilgitBaltistan may cost Pakistan in terms of the overwhelming support it enjoys among
Kashmiri separatists in India. The separatist leadership in J&K, which Pakistan has nurtured for decades, has
firmly resisted the idea of granting provincial status to GilgitBaltistan and conveyed its stern objections in this
regard to the political leadership in Islamabad,
10. G4 OPEN TO NEW IDEAS

In a bid to get the U.N. reform process moving, India and other G4 nations have said they are open to
innovative ideas and willing to not exercise veto as permanent members of a reformed Security Council until a
decision on it has been taken.
G4 nations refers to India, Brazil, Germany and Japan that are demanding expansion of UNSC with
permanent membership to the 4 states.
UNSC has 5 permanent members (US, Russia, UK, France and China) and 10 temporary members.
To ease the process, they are open to not exercising veto as permanent members of a reformed UN Security
Council (UNSC) until a decision on it has been taken.
The G4 bloc warned that the issue of veto was important but member states should not allow it to have aveto
over the process of Council reform itself.
In all other matters, the new permanent members would as a principle have the same responsibilities and
obligations as the current permanent members.
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In a joint statement at an inter-governmental negotiations meeting, the G4 nations emphasised that an

overwhelming majority of the U.N. member-states supported the expansion of both permanent and non
permanent membership in a reformed UNSC.
11. THAAD MISSILES IN SOUTH KOREA

Why in news?
US is deploying the Terminal High-Altitude Area Defence system (THAAD) in South Korea.
What is its significance?
It is significant for defence of South Korea, a close US ally, in light of many missile tests by North Korea.
THAAD can intercept and destroy short and medium range ballistic missiles during the last part of their
flights.
The decision to deploy the missile defence system have angered not only North Korea, but also China and
Russia, which see the systems powerful radars as a security threat.
US and Korea say the system is defensive and not meant to be a threat to China or Russia.
Some in South Korea are also against THAAD deployment. Some politicians say that the security benefits of
having THAAD would be curtailed by worsened relations with neighbours China and Russia.
12. NORTH KOREA CONDUCTS MISSILE TESTS

Why in news?
Nuclear-armed North Korea fired four ballistic missiles east of the peninsula with Japan saying three of them landed
in its waters that constitute Japans Exclusive Economic Zone.
The missiles were filed into the East Sea, also known as the Sea of Japan. Their range was detected to be around 1,000
kilometres.
Background
North Korean missiles are a major concern for Japan and especially South Korea. As the two countries are
allies of US, the US also takes keen interest in the region.
In response to the launch, South Korea convened an emergency National Security Council (NSC) meeting.
North Korea is barred under UN resolutions from any use of ballistic missile technology. North Korea insists
that these missiles are defensive weapons.
Last year, it conducted two nuclear tests and numerous missile launches in its quest to develop a nuclear
weapons system capable of hitting the continental US.
North Korea is under heavy international sanctions for its nuclear and missile programmes. Even six sets of
UN sanctions since Pyongyangs first nuclear test in 2006 have failed to halt it.
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Last month, China, which is North Koreas chief ally and diplomatic protector, also announced a suspension of
all coal imports from the North until the end of the year. This deprives North Korea of a crucial source of
foreign currency.
13. PAK RETURNS TO SAARC
Why in news?
Pakistan's official was elected to the post of the Secretary General of the South Asian Association for Regional
Cooperation (SAARC).
Background
The selection of SAARC Secretary General is consensus-based.
The new chief of SAARC, Amjad Hussein B Sial, is a veteran Pakistani diplomat.
The election of Mr.Sial is said to have been made possible as India and Pakistan had indicated a greater
willingness to allow SAARC to function.
He was expected to take charge a year ago. However, Indias tough stance on cross-border terrorism kept him
waiting since March 2016.
Earlier, India had opposed holding of the 19th SAARC summit in Islamabad in November 2016 following the
terror strike in Uri.
14. CHINS FIRST OVERSEAS BASE
Why in news?
China is constructing its first overseas base close to US' Camp Lemonnier.
Background
Djibouti hosts the largest American permanent military base in Africa, Camp Lemonnier, which is home to
more than 4,000 personnel.
It was established after the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. It has served the US well in its global fight
against Islamic extremism.
It is one of America's most important foreign bases, due to its proximity to regions that often see conflicts in
Africa and the Middle East.
Personnel here are involved in highly secretive missions, including raids and targeted drone killings in West
Asia and the Horn of Africa.
A Chinese naval port so close to Camp Lemonnier would provide great view to the preparations for U.S.
counterterrorism operations in the Arabian Peninsula and North Africa. This is causing surveillance concerns
to the US.
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With China giving billions of dollars in loans to Djiboutis heavily indebted government, US is also worried
about the long-term durability of its alliance with Djibouti.
It also marks China's expanding global ambitions with potential implications for the United Statess long-
standing military dominance.
15. INDIA GERMANY SIGN SOCIAL SECURITY AGREEMENT
Why in news?
India and Germany have ratified the Social Security Agreement (SSA), which will come into force from May 1 this year.
Background
India and Germany have ratified the Social Security Agreement (SSA), which will come into force from May 1
this year. The Social Security Agreement (SSA) to help promote more investment flows between the two
countries.
In 2011, the two countries signed a comprehensive Agreement on Social Security. The agreement, signed in
2011, and now ratified, is expected to reduce the operational costs of Indian and German companies operating
in either of the countries.
The SSA will also integrate the provisions of the 2008 social insurance pact.
The 2008 insurance pact exempts detached workers of the two countries from making social security
contributions in either countries so long as they were making such contributions in their respective countries.
A detached worker is an employee who is sent by his or her employer in one country to work temporarily in
the other country for the same employer or an affiliate of that employer.
16. INDIA-ISRAEL DEVELOP MISSILE FOR ARMY
Why in news?
Rs. 17,000-crore deal to develop missile for Army approved by Cabinet panel ahead of proposed Modis visit to Israel
(likely in June).
Background
PM Modi is likely to visit Israel later this year. This will be the first visit of an Indian Prime Minister to Israel.
India and Israel have stepped up their defence relations since Mr.Modi came to power.
The Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS), headed by PM Modi, gave the go-ahead for the missile
development deal.
This is the latest in a series of other variants of SAM systems (surface-to-air missiles) for the Navy and the Air
Force being jointly developed with Israeli help.
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India will develop jointly a medium range surface-to-air missile (MR-SAM) system for the Army in a Rs.
17,000-crore deal. The missile is designed to provide the armed forces with air defence capability against a
variety of aerial threats at medium ranges.
It will be executed jointly by the India's DRDO and Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI).The deal is for five
regiments of the missile, which consists of 40 units and 200 missiles. It has a range of 50-70 km. The systems
will be manufactured in India and would have an 80% indigenous content.
The DRDO would play a crucial role in developing the target homing system. Deliveries are expected to begin
in 2023.
17. INDIA RWANDA SIGN AVIATION DEALS

India and Rwanda has signed three MoUs for promoting innovation, easing visa requirements and boosting
air connectivity between the two countries.
The countries will soon set up an entrepreneurship development centre in Kigali. In aviation sector, Rwanda
Air will start services to India in coming months and both countries will mutually exempt visa requirements.
India and Rwanda have concluded a bilateral air services agreement enabling direct flights between the two
countries.
18. DTTI
DTTI was launched in 2012. The DTTI is not a treaty or a law.It is a flexible mechanism to ensure that senior
leaders from our nations are persistently focused on the opportunities and challenges associated with growing
our defense partnership.
It seeks to strengthen Indias defense industrial base by moving away from the traditional buyer-seller
dynamic toward a more collaborative approach.
It creates opportunities for U.S.-India co-production and codevelopment, and fosters more sophisticated
science and technology cooperation.
Most importantly, it aims to ensure that bureaucratic processes and procedures do not stand in the way of the
progress.
19. GANGA BASIN PROJECT

Bangladesh and India have held talks on the Ganga basin development project.
Bangladesh and India have been holding talks on the Ganga basin development project.
The Ganga basin development project first came up for discussion during the then PM Dr Manmohan Singhs
Dhaka visit in 2011. Ganga basin development project will help agriculture and river navigation and revive the
river economy.
Joint dredging and development activities in the basin area are also part of the project.
The main component of the Ganga basin development is the issue of joint development and management.
That apart, Bangladesh needs a new Ganges barrage to hold water released from the Farakka barrage in India.
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20. ROHINGYA ISSUE

The UN human rights office said that Myanmars security forces may have committed crimes against humanity.
Rohingyas
The Rohingyas are a distinct Muslim ethnic group living in Myanmar.
While the Rohingyas say they are descendants of Arab traders who have been in the region forgenerations,
Myanmar'sgovernments say they are not a genuine ethnic group but are actually Bengali migrants.
They have been rendered stateless since July 2012, when the Myanmar Government dropped them from the
government's list of more than 130 ethnic races and declared that they have no claim to Myanmar citizenship.
The repression of the Rohingyas has gradually intensified since the process of reforms introduced by the then
President TheinSein in 2011.
In June and October 2012 there were large scale attacks on Rohingyas in Rakhine State following the gang
rape of a Buddhist woman.
The government has forcibly segregated Rohingya from the rest of the population in Rakhine state. They live
confined in enclaves - rural ghettos, in effect from which they are not allowed to leave. Rohingyas have been
steadily fleeing Myanmar to Bangladesh and also South east Asian countries of Malaysia, Indonesia and
Thailand. Some are even living in India.
The plight of the stateless Rohingya has long been a source of friction between Myanmar and Bangladesh.
21. RUSSIA BIG MILITARY PUSH IN ARCTIC

Why in news?
Russia is re-opening abandoned Soviet military, air and radar bases on remote Arctic islands.
Background
The expansion has far-reaching financial and geopolitical ramifications. The Arctic is estimated to hold more
hydrocarbon reserves than Saudi Arabia and Moscow is putting down a serious military push.
Russia is building three nuclear-powered icebreakers, including the worlds largest, to bolster its fleet of
around 40 breakers, six of which are nuclear.
Russia is rushing to re-open abandoned Soviet military, air and radar bases on remote Arctic islands and also
build new ones, as it pushes ahead with a claim to almost half a million square miles of the Arctic.
The build-up is causing jitters elsewhere. Some 300 U.S. Marines landed in Norway this month for a six-
month deployment, the first time since World War Two that foreign troops have been allowed to be stationed
there.
And with memories of Russia's 2014 annexation of Ukraine's Crimea still fresh, NATO is watching closely. Six
of its members held an exercise in the region in 2015.
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22. INDIA UAE SIGN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP PACT

Why in news?
India sealed 14 agreements, including a comprehensive strategic partnership, with the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Background
A strategic partnership is a long-term interaction between two countries based on political, economic, social
and historical factors
Such a partnership manifests itself in a variety of relationships
India has signed strategic partnerships with more than 30 countries
Not all strategic partnerships are equally important
Some have a dominant political element, while others have a prominent economic dimension
In some cases, the security dimension may be the most important.
India to fill strategic reserve facility at Mangaluru with oil from UAE Sharing strategic oil reserve:
The two nations signed a strategic oil pact.
It allows UAE's Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) to lease half of India's strategic underground
crude oil storage facility at Mangaluru.
India has already filled the half of the Mangaluru storage in Karnataka state with Iranian oil.
India would have first rights to the stored crude in case of an emergency, while ADNOC would be able to move
cargoes to meet any shift in demand.
India's Strategic Oil Reserves
As India imports most of its oil needs, it is building emergency storage in underground caverns as safeguard
against any energy security risks.
These are filled up when the oil prices are very low.
To ensure energy security, the Government of India had decided to set up 5 million metric tons (MMT) of
strategic crude oil storages at three locations namely, Visakhapatnam (AP), Mangalore and Padur
(Karnataka).
These strategic storages would be in addition to the existing storages of crude oil and petroleum products with
the oil companies and would serve as a cushion during any external supply disruptions.
The storage capacity being created can hold enough oil to meet about 10 days of India's average daily oil
demand in 2016.
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23. US ENVOY AND DALAI LAMAS VISIT TO ARUNACHAL PRADESH

Why in news?
India cleared the visit of the Tibetan spiritual leader to Arunachal Pradesh in November after New Delhi gave the rare
go ahead to then US ambassador to India Richard Verma to visit Arunachal Pradesh.
Background
The then U.S. ambassador to India earlier in January hosted prominent Tibetan representatives in his
residence for a dinner. Tibetan leaders present at the event suggested that the dinner showed that the Tibetan
issue remains strong in the international affairs.
It comes against a backdrop of China blocking Indias entry into the NSG and Chinas opposition to list
MaulanaMasood Azhar as a terrorist in the UNSC.
In October 2016, China had responded angrily to Mr.Vermas visit to Arunachal Pradesh where he participated
in the famous Tawang festival.
China is always uncomfortable when US representatives meet Tibetan leaders or visit areas that China claims
as its own (like Arunachal).
China claims more than 90,000 sq. km (35,000 sq. miles) that India says is its territoryi.e. Arunachal
Pradesh. According to China, Arunachal Pradesh is part of what it calls South Tibet.
24. US PULLS OUT OF TPP

US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order formally withdrawing the country from the Trans-
Pacific Partnership (TPP) trade deal.
The Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) is a trade agreement among 12 Pacific Rim countries signed on 4
February 2016. The 12 nations include Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New
Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the United States and Vietnam.
The TPP trade deal was negotiated by former President Barack Obama's administration but never approved by
US Congress. It aimed to set trade rules for the 21st century and bind U.S. allies against growing Chinese
economic clout.
The mega trade deal is perceived to be a counterweight to Chinas growing global economic clout.
25. CHAGOSARCHIPALEGO DISPUTE
Why in news?
The British Foreign Secretary has sought Indian assistance in resolving current tensions in the U.S. military base
Diego Garcia.
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What is the issue?
The Chagos Archipelago is a group of seven atolls comprising more than 60 islands in the Indian Ocean about
500 km south of the Maldives.
It had been part of Mauritius since the 18th century when the French first settled the islands.
All of the islands of French colonial territory in the region were ceded to the British in 1810.
Before Mauritian independence, in 1965, the UK split the archipelago from the territory of Mauritius to form
the British Indian Ocean Territory and permitted the US to use it for defence purposes for 50 years (until
December 2016) followed by a 20-year optional extension.
Following this US Military Base was setup in Diego Garcia, the largest of the islands.
2,000 inhabitants were resettled in Mauritius and the Seychelles.
The UN resolutions banned the dismemberment of colonial territories before independence.
Therefore Mauritius claims sovereignty over the islands and states that Britains claim is a violation of law and
of UN resolutions.
The resettled inhabitants now number around 10,000 including their descendants and they wish to resettle.
UK declared Marine Protected Area around Chagos in 2010, which prohibits fishing and extractive industry
and has the effect of preventing any resettlement.
In 2015, the Permanent Court of Arbitration ruled this move as illegal under the United Nations Convention
on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
According to PCA, Mauritius holds legally binding rights
1. to fish in the waters surrounding the Chagos.
2. to the eventual return of the Chagos to Mauritius when no longer needed for defence purposes
3. to the preservation of the benefit of any minerals or oil discovered in the Chagos Archipelago pending
its eventual return
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In November 2016, the U.K. ruled out the resettlement of the islanders on the grounds of feasibility, defence,
security interests and the cost.
UK also renewed the lease for Diego Garcia with US, up until 2036.
Subsequently, Mauritius warned that it would push to take the matter to the International Court of Justice
(ICJ).
Implications
UK sees Diego Garcia as vital for its operations in the region.
Therefore it wants India to exercise its influence with the Mauritian government to help reach some
agreement.
They believe that it would be in Indias security interest in the region.
India has maintained that the matter of to proceed with ICJ is a decision for the Mauritian government to
make.
But this is seen as a positive move, as it signals Britains eagerness to partner with India on security matters.
26. INDIA SRILANKA TALKS ON PORT

Why in news?
Sri Lanka is in talks to offer the port of Trincomalee to India.
Summary
Earlier, Hambantota port in Lanka was developed by China.
It was first offered to India but India kept delaying for long, so Lanka gave it to China. It was built with the
help of Chinese loans and contractors in 2010 under former leader MahindaRajapaksa.
The Hambantota port is in southern coast of the island nation.
But, the port has put a heavy debt burden on Sri Lanka as they are finding it difficult to repay the heavy costs
of the port (developed with loans by China).
The port, and a nearby airport, also Chinese-financed, had been seen as a white elephant because it was not
financially viable.
China's interest in the Hambantota port is seen as part of its ambitions to build its Maritime Silk Route(MSR)
to the oil-rich Middle East and onwards to Europe.
That makes India and the US nervous, as the port is near shipping lanes through which much of the world's
trade passes en route to China and Japan.
The port is also seen by India as a show of China's intent to increase its presence in the Indian Ocean region.
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27. BREXIT
Why in news?
Following the 2016 referendum vote to leave commonly referred to as BREXIT, the UK government started the
withdrawal process on 29 March 2017, putting the UK on course to leave by April 2019.
Background
Free movement of goods & services (single market) and free movement of people are the foundational ideas of
a single European Union (EU).
But there was increasing pressure on UK from its citizens to put curbs on immigration (mainly Europeans
moving to Britain). The fears of UK citizens got graver due to heavy immigration from war torn Middle east
and Africa via the Mediterranean sea over the past few years.
So they conducted a referendum on whether UK citizens want to stay in EU or leave EU (Brexit).
Those who wanted to leave (pro- Brexit) won, so UK is leaving the EU.
Once UK leaves EU, there will be no free movement of people from and via other European countries to UK.
But EU leaders say Britain cant stay in the single market without allowing free movement of people from the
bloc.
So, Britain is quitting the EUs single market in goods and services in order to gain control over immigration, a
key issue for many voters who backed Brexit.
Theresa May, the British Prime Minister has announced 12 negotiating objectives and confirmed that the UK
government would not seek permanent single market membership.
She has promised a Great Repeal Bill to repeal the European Communities Act and incorporate existing EU
laws into UK domestic law.
Procedure for leaving the EU
Withdrawal from the European Union is governed by Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union.
Under the Article 50 invocation procedure a member notifies the European Council and there is a negotiation
period of up to two years, after which the treaties cease to apply although a leaving agreement may be
agreed, although aspects such as trade may be difficult to negotiate until the UK has left the EU.
Impact on India
800-odd Indian companies with European headquarters in London. While Indian leaders say they see Brexit
as more of an opportunity, Indian companies have traditionally viewed Britain as their main gateway to
Europe.
Now, in anticipation of a potential hard Brexit, Indian companies had begun to obtain the necessary licences
to operate in the EU region.
MS May also highlighted Britains eagerness to forge relations with nations beyond the EU, pointing to India
and Australia as countries on which discussions on future trade ties had already commenced.
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28. INDIA AND KENYA TIES

Why in news?
India and Kenya signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for cooperation in the field of agriculture and allied
sectors.
Summary
India also announced $100 million Line of Credit (LoC) to Kenya for agricultural mechanization
The agreement was signed after delegation level talks between Prime Minister NarendraModi and Kenyan
President Uhuru Kenyatta in New Delhi. It was first official state visit of President from Kenya to India since
1981.
PM Modi and Mr. Kenyatta agreed to deepen economic cooperation and expand trade.
Both are committed to reforming and strengthening the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Africa, despite its enormous size and complexity, has not secured a permanent seat in the Security Council.
Kenya supports the need for Africa to have a seat at the proposed expanded UNSC.
Mr. Kenyatta invited India to engage more intensely at COMESA (Common Market for Eastern and Southern
Africa).
India invited Kenya to join the framework agreement of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) and also
offering its expertise in the area of LED smart street lighting and LED bulbs for domestic use.
The two countries sought a common strategy with India to deal with international security threats and money
laundering. Both sides agreed to enhance cooperation in areas of maritime surveillance, maritime security,
sharing of white shipping information and joint hydrographic surveys.
29. INDIA PORTUGAL SIGNS DEFENCE AGREEMENT
Why in news?
Prime Minister of Portugal Antonio Costa is on a visit to India. In a bid to boost joint production and development of
niche weapons systems, India and Portugal on Saturday entered into a defence agreement.
Summary
This agreement follows Portugal's support to Indian membership of Missile Technology Control Regime
(MTCR). India secured membership in 2016.
Underscoring the substantial opportunities in Indias defence sector and the niche technological competencies
of the Portuguese defence industry, Prime Minister Modi invited Portuguese companies to Make in India and
set up joint ventures and commercial partnerships based on joint production and technology transfer.
Apart from the agreements on defence, visa-free travel for diplomats and marine research, both sides also
issued a separate declaration for cooperation in third country.
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30. HYBRID WAR CRIMES COURT IN SRILANKA

Why in news?
A Sri Lanka government appointed task force recommended a hybrid court with both local and foreign judges to
prosecute war crimes.
Summary
In January 2016, Prime Minister RanilWickremesinghe appointed a Consultation Task Force (CTF) to seek
national views on reconciliation mechanisms.
It comprised civil society members such as activists and academicians.
It held country-wide consultations on the Sri Lankan governments proposed reconciliation mechanisms
following the UNHRC resolution in 2015.
Sri Lanka proposed four mechanisms for reconciliation Truth, Justice, Reconciliation and Non-Recurrence;
Office of Missing Persons; Office of Reparations; a Judicial Mechanism with Special Counsel.
UNHCR resolution 2015
In 2015, Sri Lanka and 25 additional co-sponsors (including the US and the UK) submitted to UNHRC, a
resolution titled Promoting Reconciliation, Accountability and Human Rights in Sri Lanka.
It is in reference to the alleged human rights violations during the Sri Lankan civil war (which ended with
defeat of LTTE). On 1 October, 2015, the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) passed the
resolution.
The resolution also welcomed the historic free and fair democratic elections in January and August 2015 and
peaceful political transition in Sri Lanka.
The resolution called upon Colombo to establish a credible judicial process, with the participation of
Commonwealth and other foreign judges, defence lawyers and authorised prosecutors and investigators, to go
into the alleged rights abuses.
Recommendations of the CTF
The state must release private land occupied by its armed forces.
SriLanka must address lingering concerns of militarisation, enforced disappearances and livelihood
opportunities in order to move ahead on its promise of reconciliation.
CTF also recommended a hybrid court - with both local and foreign judges to prosecute war crimes.
However, a few days ago PM Wickremesinghe made a public statement ruling out foreign judges.
CTF says it is crucial that international legal experts participate, because the existing local mechanisms lacked
the competency and the trust of all people.
31. INDIA SINGAPORE AGREED TO AMEND DTAA

Why in news?
India and Singapore agreed on amendments to the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA).
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Summary
India and Singapore agreed on amendments to the Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA). The
Centre had been trying to renegotiate the DTAA with Mauritius since 1996 and finally got it done in May.
Since the Singapore tax treaty was based on the same terms as Mauritius, efforts were made to renegotiate the
pact with Singapore.
A similar treaty with Cyprus was amended in November. India is renegotiating DTAAs with all countries.
Why amend DTAA?
The DTAA agreements were being misused for round-tripping domestic black money. This means black
money generated in India is somehow illegally routed to countries like Mauritius and Singapore. Then, they
are brought back into India in the name of new investments, and thus converting it into white.
Under DTAA, for example, those investing from Singapore, Cyprus and Mauritius only need to pay tax in one
country. Since these three countries had no capital gains taxes, the investors could just pay some nominal
amount (like for registration of company) there. Thus, gains made from investments in India (capital gains)
escape India without the need to pay taxes in India.
Basically, the beneficiary would not pay any capital gains tax in India on the ground that the Singapore
taxation rules would be applicable to them and then they don't need to pay in Singapore as there is no capital
gains tax there. So, they get away without paying any taxes on their investments.
Capital gains refer to the profits from the sale of property or an investment.
Why DTAA is there?
DTAAs are intended to make a country an attractive investment destination for foreign investors by providing
relief on dual taxation (taxed in two countries).
What will the amendments do?
By amending these DTAA pacts, government has been able to put an end to this black money route. The tax
exemptions for investors under the existing agreements will be discontinued from April 1, 2017.
For two years from April 2017, the capital gains will be shared half and half between the country of residence
of investor and India. Post-2019, the entire capital gains becomes exclusive to India.
32. UN ON ISRAELI SETTLEMENTS

Why in news?
UN Security Council voted to halt settlements in Palestinian territory.
Summary
UN Security Council (UNSC) voted to halt settlements (housing) in Palestinian territory.
It asks Israel to immediately stop all settlement activities in the occupied Palestinian territory, including East
Jerusalem. UNSC has 5 permanent members and 10 temporary members.
All resolutions must be passed unanimously by the permanent members.
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Usually, US votes against any resolution against Israel, as it is its closest ally in West Asia. This year U.S.
abstained (didn't vote), allowing resolution to pass with 14 members in favour. By deciding not to veto the
move, the U.S. took a rare step that deeply angered Israel.
What happens next?
The resolution itself contains no sanctions.
But Israeli officials are concerned it could widen the possibility of prosecution at the International Criminal
Court (ICC).
They are also worried it could encourage some countries to impose sanctions against Israeli settlers and
products produced in the settlements.
Next US President Donald Trump said he was against this resolution.
33. JAPAN DRAGS INDIA TO WTO ON STEEL CURBS

Why in news?
Japan has dragged India to the World Trade Organisation (WTO) against certain measures taken by New Delhi on
imports of iron and steel products.
Summary
India has imposed minimum import price (MIP) on imports of certain iron and steel products.
In February, India imposed MIP of 173 products for six months, which was later extended twice for two
months. Earlier this month, the government extended MIP on 19 products till February 4, 2017.
India has imposed MIP as growing imports from steel surplus countries like China, Japan and Korea with
predatory prices have been a major concern for the domestic industry since September 2014.
India has also imposed anti-dumping duties on certain steel products to guard domestic players from cheap
imports.
As Japan has filed the case, it will do bilateral consultations with India on the issue.
As per the WTOs dispute settlement process, the request for consultations is the first step in a dispute.
Consultations give the parties an opportunity to discuss the matter and to find a satisfactory solution without
proceeding further with litigation.
After 60 days, if consultations fail to resolve the dispute, the complainant may request adjudication by a panel.
34. US MISSILE LAUNCH ON SYRIA

Why in news?
US launched a missile strike against Syria under the pretext of suspected chemical weapons attack on Khan Sheikhun
by President Bashar Al-Assads regime.
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What happened in Khan Sheikhoun?
Khan Sheikhoun is a town in north-western Syria.
It is under the control of rebel fighters and al-Qaeda-linked jihadists.
Syrian government allegedly launched an air strike on the area.
More than 80 people have been killed in a suspected chemical attack.
Medecins Sans Frontieres (MSF) said that the victims experienced symptoms including redness of the eyes,
foaming from the mouth, constricted pupils, blue facial skin and lips, severe shortness of breath and
asphyxiation
These symptoms are consistent with reaction to nerve agents.
Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW) will not be able to confirm anything until
samples are tested at an accredited laboratory, but many believes that Sarin Gas was used.
The Syrian military denied using any chemical agents, while its ally Russia said an air strike hit a rebel depot
full of chemical munitions.
What is Sarin gas?
Sarin is highly toxic nerve agent, considered 20 times as deadly as cyanide.
It inhibits the action of the acetylcholinesterase enzyme, which deactivates signals that cause human nerve
cells to fire.
Sufficient exposure can lead to death via asphyxiation within minutes.
Sarin is almost impossible to detect because it is a clear, colourless and tasteless liquid that has no odour in its
purest form.
It can also evaporate and spread through the air.
35. US DROPS MOTHER OF ALL BOMBS IN AFGHANISTAN

Why in news?
United States dropped one of the largest non-nuclear devices ever unleashed in combat over Afghanistan, killing
90 suspected Islamic State militants.
What is the reason for the attack?
The bomb was dropped in the Achin district of the eastern province that borders Pakistan.
The strike was part of a joint operation by Afghan and international troops.
It targeted a network of caves, tunnels and ammunition caches.
The deaths have not been independently verified, but the Afghan Defence Ministry said no civilians were
harmed in it.
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The strike came as U.S. President dispatches his first high-level delegation to Kabul to decide the future of
nearly 9,000 American troops stationed in Afghanistan.
36. NEPAL CHINA MILITARY EXERCISE

Why in news?
Nepal and China will hold the first-ever joint military exercise from April 17 with a special focus on combating terror
and disaster management, the Nepal Army announced Thursday.
Summary
The 10-day-long military drill that will last till April 26 is being organised by the two countries as part of their
preparedness against terrorism that has posed as a serious security threat globally.
The military exercise named Sagarmatha Friendship-2017 will also focus on common interests like disaster
management. Sagarmatha is the Nepali name of Mount Everest, the worlds highest peak, that is bordering
between Nepal and China.
The military exercise named Sagarmatha Friendship-2017 will also focus on common interests like disaster
management. Sagarmatha is the Nepali name of Mount Everest, the worlds highest peak, that is bordering
between Nepal and China.
37. INDIA INDONESIA TO FIGHT TERROR
Why in news?
India and Indonesia, the worlds most populous Muslim nation, on Monday decided to expand their defence and
maritime security ties and resolved to deal with terrorism.
Summary
During the talks between Prime Minister NarendraModi and Indonesian President JokoWidodo, the two
countries, among the very few fast-growing large economies, also decided to boost trade and investment in the
areas of oil and gas, renewable energy, information technology and pharmaceuticals.
The issue of South China Sea figured prominently. In a veiled message to Beijing, both sides said the dispute
must be resolved through peaceful means.
Two memoranda of understanding were signed to provide for cooperation in youth affairs and sports and
standardization.
Mr. Modi and Mr.Widodo called upon all countries to implement the United Nations Security Council
Resolution 1267 (banning militant groups and their leaders) and other resolutions designating terrorist
entities. This is seen as an apparent reference to China blocking Indias move to get Jaish-e-Mohammed chief
MasoodAzhar designated as a global terrorist.
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38. INDIA US DEFENCE PARTNERSHIP
Why in news?
American Defence Secretary General, in his speech, highlighted the centrality of the India-US Defence
Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) to ties between the two countries.
Because of the DTTI, he said, the bilateral defence relationship has grown to the benefit of both countries.
But, notwithstanding the Generals optimism about the initiative, it has shown some progress on only two
projects so far.
What is DTTI?
The DTTI mechanism was launched in 2012. It is not a treaty or a law. It is a flexible mechanism to ensure
that senior leaders from our nations are persistently focused on the opportunities and challenges associated
with growing our defense partnership. The DTTI aims to:
o Transform the bilateral defense relationship into one that is limited only by independent strategic
decisions, rather than bureaucratic obstacles or inefficient procedures.
o Strengthen Indias defense industrial base by moving away from the traditional buyer-seller
dynamic toward a more collaborative approach.
o Explore new areas of technological collaboration from science and technology cooperation through co-
development and co-production.
o Expand U.S.-Indian business ties.
The first four projects under the DTTI were announced during President Barack Obamas visit to New Delhi as
chief guest for the 2015 Republic Day celebrations.
India and the US are currently working on six projects under the DTTI framework and two more American
proposals are under the consideration.
The whole idea of the DTTI was to cut through the government bureaucracies on the two sides. As a
mechanism for defence cooperation, it has to focus on advanced technologies.
What are the projects proposed under DTTI?
Fifty per cent of the original projects have reached project agreement stage, two are in a limbo, and we are
hopeful of progress on the rest, an official dealing with the DTTI framework told.
DRDO and US Labs are the lead agencies from the two countries for these projects.
The Next General Individual Protection Ensemble and Mobile Electric Hybrid Power Source projects reached
the agreement stage in 2015.
The Digital Helmet Mounted Display and Joint Biological Tactical Detection System projects were proposed
last year and are currently at a discussion stage.
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The US offer for trilateral cooperation (with Israel) on the futuristic military platform was made last
November but sources said that they are yet to make up their mind on it.
The Defence Ministry is likely to convey its decision to the Americans at the next DTTI meeting (march/april),
which is scheduled to be hosted at the Pentagon.
The Americans feel that three advanced countries can bring their advantage of expertise and economy to the
project which, if successful, could then be used by the armies of all the three countries.
The American side also proposed bilateral development of Future Vertical Lift Helicopter (FVLH) in
November under the DTTI.
The Pentagon has also proposed to the Defence Ministry that the two sides work on a deal for an American
combat fighter aircraft, whether F-16 or F-18, under the DTTI. But the Defence Ministry did not want the
fighter aircrafts to be considered under the DTTI.
Defence Minister ManoharParrikar recently said that the government would chose a single-engine foreign
fighter, the American F-16 or the Swedish Gripen, under Make in India to supplement the 36 Rafale fighters in
the medium-weight category.
National Defence Authorisation Act (NDAA) 2017 is set to be passed by U.S. Congress soon to recognise
Indias status as a major defence partner of the United States.
Conclusion
Donald Trumps victory in the US Presidential polls had left the Indian side concerned about the state of the
DTTI because it was seen as Carters personal project.
These concerns were addressed with the passage of the National Defence Authorization Act of 2017 (NDAA
2017) by the US government last month, which institutionalised the DTTI mechanism.
Despite the Generals positive statements, New Delhi remains unsure about the priority the Trump
administration may give to defence cooperation. By all accounts, New Delhi will adopt a wait and watch
attitude.
39. ASIAN BUYERS FORUM
Why in news?
Minister of State for Petroleum and Natural Gas has mooted the idea of a large Asian LNG buyers forum to negotiate
more equitable trade deals and balance the influence of the Organisation of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC).
Why is it significant?
The world needs greater co-operation among countries on gas technologies such as shale and gas hydrates.
Today a large number of LNG deals are linked to oil prices. Only geographies with LNG hubs have prices lower
than the oil-linked prices.
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The view is that Asian LNG buyers pay higher rates since there is no LNG hub in Asia and there is no unity
among consumers. A number of large Asian LNG buyers could benefit by joining hands and this would bring
in more equitable trade deals.
40. HEART OF ASIA CONFERENCE
Why in news?
The sixth edition of Heart of Asia- Istanbul Process of Aghanistan conference, an annual regional gathering of
Asian and other countries was held in Amritsar, Punjab (India).
It was inaugurated jointly by Prime Minister NarendraModi and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani. It concluded
with adaptation of Amritsar Declaration with its prime focus on terrorism.
Summary
The theme of this edition of the conference was Addressing Challenges, Achieving Prosperity.
The three big issues of the conference were (i) countering terrorism to create stability in Afghanistan, (ii)
Providing Afghanistan connectivity to strengthen economic activities and (iii) the development which is
essential for its progress.
41. AMRITSAR DECLARATION

Terrorism- It is the biggest threat to peace and security. It needs to be ended in all forms of terrorism and all
support financial and safe havens providing sanctuary to it.
Expressed concern over violence caused in Afghanistan and region by terrorists groups like Al Qaeda,
Lashkar-e-Toiba, Daesh (ISIS) and Jaish-e-Mohammed. It also mentions Haqqani Network.
Drug menace- There is urgency to respond to the nexus between drug menace and its financial support for
terrorist entities in Afghanistan.
CCIT- Early finalisation of the draft comprehensive convention on international terrorism (CCIT).
Early meeting of experts must be held to discuss a draft regional counter terrorism framework strategy,
recently prepared by Afghanistan for its early finalisation.
Connectivity- Reiterated strong support from Heart of Asia countries for use of Afghanistans location to
enhance wider and regional economic cooperation.
Specific initiatives for regional connectivity including Iran-India-Afghanistan trilateral agreement on

developing Chabahar were acknowledged
OBOR- Welcomes the MOU on Jointly Building the Silk Road Economic Belt (OBOR) and the 21st Century
Maritime Silk Road between China and Afghanistan.
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International community and ANDSF- Welcomed agreements between the international community and
Afghanistan for continued financial support to the Afghanistan National Defence and Security Forces
(ANDSF) until 2020.
42. LEMOA
Why in news?
India and the United States have signed the Logistics Exchange Memorandum Of Agreement (LEMOA) in Washington
DC, USA on 29 August 2016.
Summary
LEMOA is a facilitating agreement that establishes basic terms, conditions, and procedures for reciprocal
provision of Logistic Support, Supplies, and Services between the armed forces of India and the United States.
Logistic Support, Supplies, and Services include food, water, billeting, transportation, petroleum, oils,
lubricants, clothing, communication services, medical services, storage services, training services, spare parts
and components, repair and maintenance services, calibration services, and port services.
Reciprocal logistic support would be used exclusively during authorized port visits, joint exercises, joint
training, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts.
Logistics support for any other cooperative efforts shall only be provided on a case-by-case basis through prior
mutual consent of the Parties, consistent with their respective laws, regulations and policies.
Provision of Logistic Support, Supplies, and Services from one Party to the other would be in return for either
cash payment or the reciprocal provision of Logistic Support, Supplies, and Services.
The Agreement does not create any obligations on either Party to carry out any joint activity. It does not
provide for the establishment of any bases or basing arrangements.
The Agreement will significantly enhance the operational capacity of the Indian Armed Forces, including in
their response to humanitarian crises or disaster relief.
43. INDIA AND ISRAEL
Why in news?
Israel and India have signed a deal for the provision of an advanced defense system of medium-range surface-to-air
missiles, launchers and communications technology. The US$2 billion contract, billed as the largest in the history of
Israels defense industry, will boost Indias defense capability.
Summary
It would draw India into a tighter relationship with Israel which is complicated.
The mega missile agreement is considered to be the largest defense contract in Israels defense industries
history, the company said, stressing that some components will be assembled in India, in line with Prime
Minister NarendraModis push to reduce reliance on costly imports.
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The deal here makes a lot of sense for both sides. India has been pursuing closer ties with Israel ever since
Modi took office, in part because of the simple transactional calculation that India desperately needs
new weapons and Israel has them.
Buying from Israel helps India diversify away from traditional suppliers like Russia and the United States,
aiding Modis delicate balancing act as he tries to avoid over-dependence on any one power.
44. BBIN
Why in news?
With the Bhutan government giving up on pushing through the unpopular Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal motor
vehicles agreement (BBIN MVA) because of the parliamentary elections next year, India is actively considering the
possibility of operationalising the sub-regional pact with only three members.
Summary
Nearly two years after ministers from Bhutan, Bangladesh, India and Nepal signed the BBIN MVA in
Thimphu, the Bhutanese government withdrew the Bill to ratify the pact last week from the agenda of the
upcoming parliamentary session.
Right from the time the BBIN MVA was tabled for ratification, the draft legislation faced opposition in Bhutan.
Bhutanese suspicion has been that the pact to streamline movement of passenger and cargo transport among
the four countries will overwhelm the smallest country in South Asia with traffic, tourists and pollution.
At the initial stages, there was a perception in the South Block that the Bhutan government had not exerted
itself as strongly as possible in its outreach activities with various sections.
For India, the BBIN MVA is of particular significance for its neighbourhood diplomacy. Prime Minister
NarendraModi had been a persistent advocate of the BBIN paradigm partially to demonstrate that an
efficient regional pact in the South Asian context could be possible without the presence of Pakistan.
45. RUSSIA WITHDRAWS FROM ICC
Why in news?
Russia has officially withdrawn from International Criminal Court (ICC) after President Vladimir Putin signed
an executive order in this regard.
The executive order mentioned that Russia is pulling out of the 2002 Rome Statute, which establishes the
ICCs status and powers. However, Russia had never ratified the statue meaning it was never member subject
to its jurisdiction.
The issue
Russia was against by ICCs declaration that Russias 2014 annexation of Ukraines Crimea peninsula was an
armed conflict.
Russia is also under international pressure over its campaign of air strikes in Syria over the issue of bombing
civilians and civilian targets. Russia has denied those allegations.
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Besides, ICC is also examining allegations of war crimes committed by Russian and Georgian forces during a
brief 2008 war.
46. COMPREHENSIVE CONVENTION ON TERROR

Why in news?
In her speech on Monday at the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA), foreign minister SushmaSwaraj appealed
the global community for early adoption of the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT).
Summary
The CCIT was proposed by India in 1996. In 2016, despite the passage of two decades, we are yet to come to a
conclusion.
New Delhi has pushed for an intergovernmental convention to enhance prosecution and extradition of
terrorists since 1996.
But, a series of terror attacks since the beginning of the year in India as well as in Bangladesh seem to have
revived the Indian diplomatic establishments interest in voting and early adoption of the anti-terror
convention.
External affairs ministry spokesperson VikasSwarup confirmed that the move is also a part of Indias strategy
to isolate Pakistan internationally.
CCIT would give legal teeth to prosecute terrorist acts. Indias ambassador at the United Nations, Syed
Akbaruddin, likewise, said that New Delhi was considering all options, including forcing voting on the CCIT.
47. INDUS WATER TREATY
Why in news?
The secretary-level talks between Pakistan and India for resolving two controversial hydropower projects,
including Kishangangahydro electric project and Ratlehydro electric project, in Washington have been
delayed and will now be held by end of current month.
The Union Government previously had decided to suspend all talks on India-Pakistan Indus Waters Treaty in
the wake of the Uri attack.
Summary
IWT is a water-distribution treaty between India and Pakistan. It brokered by the World Bank (then the
International Bank for Reconstruction and Development).
The treaty deals with sharing of water of six rivers Beas, Ravi, Sutlej, Indus, Chenab and Jhelum between
the two countries.
There are issues between India and Pakistan, but there has been no fight over water after the Treaty was
ratified. Most disagreements and disputes have been settled via legal procedures, provided for within the
framework of the treaty.
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48. THERESA MAYS VISIT TO INDIA

Why in news?
Prime Minister of United Kingdom Theresa May was on three day visit to India, and it was her maiden visit to
India after becoming Prime Minister of UK. India and United Kingdom enjoys the cordial relations since long
time.
Both countries are considered as two pillars of the Commonwealth, sharing democratic values and a world
view on many political issues including terrorism.
Summary
Both countries signed two MoUs on improving the ease of doing business and on intellectual property rights.
The visit has sent signals across the world about the close relationship between India and the UK.
Both countries have discussed various trade aspects after Britain exists from European Union and role of both
countries in enhancing trade after Brexit.
Both countries reaffirmed the importance of the strategic partnership between both and it delivers huge
benefits for both countries.
49. CIVIL NUCLEAR DEAL WITH JAPAN

Why in news?
Capping years of negotiations, India and Japan on Friday signed a bilateral civilian nuclear cooperation agreement
seen as crucial for energy-starved India to access sensitive technologies to generate clean electricity.
Summary
The pact is a major achievement for India as it is Japans first civilian nuclear cooperation pact with a country
that has not signed the nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
The deal has been many years in the making because India was reluctant to limit its option to carry out more
atomic weapons testsin addition to the ones carried out in 1998in case the need arose.
And Japanbeing the only country in the world to have suffered the impact of nuclear weapons being dropped
on itwas uncomfortable with India having a nuclear weapons programme outside the nuclear non-
proliferation regime.
India signed a landmark nuclear deal with the US in 2008, clearing the path for the country to source nuclear
power plants and technology from international markets. But with Japanese companies in possession of
critical technologies, such as steel shields covering a nuclear reactor core, an accord with Japan was pivotal for
India.
NSG bid
The US, close allies, and India collaborated toward the goal of admitting India into several multilateral
export control regimes, an important objective for India after years frozen out of international nuclear trade.
The plan called for India first to join the Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR), then the NSG, and
finally the control arrangements for conventional and chemical weapons.
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India and its advocates hoped that a positive NSG decision would be made before the end of an annual
group meeting held late last month in Seoul.
After five years, the NSG structured dialogue hadnt reached consensus conclusions because giving India full
membership was trickier than carving out for India an exception to the NSGs trade rules.
Especially because the NSG right from its inception aimed to inhibit its members from assisting India in
making nuclear weapons, the NSGs members had to more deeply consider what Indian membership implied
for the groups rules and procedures, as well as for its identity.
Part of the problem is that unlike all current NSG members, India is not a party to the Nuclear Non-
Proliferation Treaty (NPT), and it has not subjected its nuclear activities to any multilateral restraints.
Indian officials singled out Beijing for blocking Indias NSG membership, raising the prospect that
geopolitics will for the first time significantly factor in an NSG membership decision.
50. INDIA MYANMAR TIES
Why in news?
Ms.SuuKyi, who could not become Myanmars President due to a constitutional provision but has full control
over the government, holds the position of State Councillor and Foreign Minister, came to New Delhi after
attending BRICS-BIMSTEC summit in Goa.
India extended support to Myanmar for a better connected future.
Both countries agreed to cooperate in security and strategic issues and signed three agreements to assist
insurance, power and banking sectors and decided to step up ties in areas of oil and gas, agriculture,
renewable energy and health care.
Summary
The two traditionally close neighbours also agreed to enhance ties in security and trade. India offered to scale
up power supply from Moreh in Manipur to Tamu in Myanmar.
India will also partner in a pilot LED electrification project in a site designated by the government of
Myanmar.
The security interests of India and Myanmar were closely aligned. The two countries agreed that close
coordination to ensure security in the areas along border, and sensitivity to each others strategic interests and
will help both neighbours.
Myanmar shares a long land border of over 1600 Km with India as well as a maritime boundary in the Bay of
Bengal.
Four North-Eastern States viz. Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram share international
boundary with Myanmar. Both countries share a heritage of religious, linguistic and ethnic ties.
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Myanmar is our gateway to South East Asia and ASEAN with which we are seeking greater economic
integration through Indias 'Look East' and Act East Policy.
Apart from supply of pulses, possibilities of energy supply from offshore blocks in Myanmar and business
opportunities that are emerging from an opening economy underpin bilateral relations.
A number of development projects like the Kaladan project, restoration of Ananda Temple, hospital
upgradation, OFL link are under construction.
51. BRICS
Why in news?
The BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) countries have agreed to share tax information
automatically as per their commitment to ensure the fairness of the international tax system.
Decion in this regard was taken at the meeting of Heads of Revenue of BRICS Countries in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Key Facts
They have reaffirmed their commitment to prevent of base erosion and shifting of profits (BEPS), exchange of
tax information and capacity building of developing countries.
To eliminate BEPS all member countries agreed to tax profits in those jurisdictions where the activities
deriving those profits are performed and where value is created.
BRICS members will exchange tax information, both on request and on automatic basis, and to adopt global
standards on tax transparency
They also reiterated their endorsement for global Common Reporting Standard for Automatic Exchange of
Information (AEOI) on a reciprocal basis to prevent cross-border tax evasion.
Expressed deep concern with the process of erosion of the tax base by aggressive tax practices including
incomplete disclosure of information by MNCs.
The five-nation group of emerging economies BRICS has agreed to set up an independent BRICS Rating
Agency in its efforts to challenge western hegemony in the world of finance.
It was announced during the 8th BRICS summit held in Goa, India. BRICS comprises five emerging
economies Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
Why there is need to establish BRICS Rating Agency?
At present, western developed countries have hegemony in the world of finance. Three global agencies (S&P,
Fitch, Moodys) based in western countries account for 90% of the rating market. Emerging economies claim
that western ratings firms are biased, pessimistic on the developing countries and optimistic on developed
nations. They also have concerns over methodologies of the three global agencies. BRICS members Russia in
particular and China have been perturbed by these western ratings firms. Russia alleges that the western firms
had deliberately lowered its rating after the Ukraine (Crimean) crisis.
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The eighth BRICS summit was held in Goa from 15 to 16 October 2016. The summit concluded with
adaptation of Goa Declaration.
The two day summit was attended by the Prime Minister NarendraModi, Chinese President Xi Jinping,
Russian President Vladimir Putin, Brazilian President Michel Temer and South African President Jacob Zuma.
The theme for the summit was Building Responsive, Inclusive and Collective Solutions.
Key Highlights of Goa Declaration
BRICS nations condemns terrorism in all its forms and stressed that there can be no justification for such acts.
International terrorism, especially the Islamic State (IS) is an unprecedented threat to international peace and
security.
BRICS nations reaffirmed the commitment to increase effectiveness of the UN counter terrorism framework.
Need for adaptation of Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism (CCIT) in the UN General
Assembly.
Urgent need to reforms of the United Nations, including UN Security Council, to increase representation of
developing countries.
Resolution of civil war in Syria, in accordance with the legitimate aspirations of the people of Syria and
action against U.N.-designated terrorist groups like IS and Jabhat al-Nusra.
All nations must counter radicalism and block sources of financing international terrorism, dismantling
terrorist bases and countering misuse of the Internet including social media.
Appreciated progress in implementation of Strategy for BRICS Economic Partnership and emphasise
importance of BRICS Roadmap for Trade, Economic and Investment Cooperation until 2020.
Welcomed adoption of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals.
Reiterated determination to use all policy tools to achieve the goal of sustainable and inclusive growth.
The ninth BRICS Summit will be hosted by China in 2017.
Besides, first-ever BRICS-BIMSTEC Outreach Summit was also held on side-lines of 2016 BRICS Summit.
Leaders from both forums planned to jointly explore possibilities of expanding ties between them on issues
such as terrorism, economy, trade and connectivity.
52. INDIA TO BUY S400 MISSILES FROM RUSSIA
Why in news?
India and Russia put up an emphatic display of deep bilateral before BRICS summit, setting aside recent discord, and
came out strongly against terror. Both sides signed 16 important deals including one on S-400 missile systems, a
game-changer in countering airborne threats.
34
Summary
Defence production and acquisition agreements were announced after the summit between Prime Minister
NarendraModi and President Vladimir Putin.
Apart from the Inter Governmental Agreement on the missile system worth nearly Rs 39,000 crore
Russia, in a show of special and privileged strategic partnership, also agreed to sell Kamov 226T helicopters
and four Krivak class stealth frigates to India.
The Kamov 226T helicopters will be manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and Rostec State
Corporation of Russia under a joint production plan.
53. S-400
It is capable of firing three types of missiles, creating a layered defence, and simultaneously engaging 36
targets.
Has the capability to destroy incoming hostile aircraft, missiles and even drones at ranges of up to 400 km.
S-400 Truimph will provide India a ballistic missile shield.
The sensitive radars of the system are thought to be able to detect even stealth aircraft which present a very
small radar cross-section and are often impossible for other systems to track.
54. G20 HANGZHOU SUMMIT

Why in news?
The 2016 G20 Hangzhou summit was the eleventh meeting of the Group of Twenty (G20). It was held on 45
September 2016 in the city of Hangzhou, Zhejiang. It was the first ever G20 summit to be hosted in China and the
second in an Asian country after 2010 G20 Seoul summit was hosted in South Korea.
Summary
G-20 leaders pledge have pledged to continue to work for a globally fair and modern international tax
system, foster growth and refrain from competitive devaluation of currencies.
They will continue the work on addressing cross-border financial flows derived from illicit activities,
including deliberate trade mis-invoicing, which hampers the mobilisation of domestic resources for
development.
They vowed to go ahead on the ongoing co-operation on Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS), exchange
of tax information, tax capacity-building of developing countries and tax policies to promote growth and tax
certainty.
They also vowed to use all policy tools to achieve the goal of strong, sustainable, balanced and inclusive
growth.
They agreed at the summit that refugees are a global issue and the burden must be shared. They called for
strengthening humanitarian assistance for refugees.
The 2017 G20 summit will be held in Hamburg, Germany from 7-8 July 2017.
35
55. MALDIVES QUITS COMMON WEALTH

The Maldives on October pulled out of the Commonwealth calling as unjust the groupings decision to penalize the
island nation over the circumstances that led to then President Mohamed Nasheeds ouster in 2012 and the lack of
subsequent progress in resolving the political unrest.
The Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group (CMAG), had warned Maldives of suspension from the bloc
expressing its deep disappointment over the countrys lack of progress in resolving the political crisis.
Severely critical of Commonwealth, the Maldives said in the name of promotion of democracy, the grouping
used the country to increase the organisations own relevance and leverage in international politics.
The Commonwealths decision to penalise the Maldives was unjustified especially given that the Commission
of National Inquiry (CoNI), established with the help of the Commonwealth, found that the transfer of power
in the Maldives was consistent with the constitutional provisions
The Maldives said, since then the CMAG and the Commonwealth Secretariat have treated the Maldives
unjustly and unfairly.
56. RUSSIAN PAKISTAN MILITARY EXERCISES

Why in news?
About 200 troops from the two countries took part in the two-week long military drills called as Friendship 2016,
which have been termed as a sign of growing military ties between the former rivals of Cold war era.
Summary
The joint drill is seen as another step in growing military-to-military cooperation, indicating a steady growth
in bilateral relationship between the two countries.
In March 2010, during his visit to New Delhi, Russian President Vladimir Putin had said that unlike many
other countries, Russia does not have any military cooperation with Pakistan because we bear in mind the
concerns of our Indian friends.
But Russian military cooperation with Pakistan has been increasing over the past few years, with the two
countries signing a deal on four Russian Mi-35M attack helicopters last August.
In the past 15 months, Pakistani army, navy, and air force chiefs have visited Russia, signalling an upswing in
the bilateral military ties.
This is in contrast to the Cold War era when Islamabad was a key supporter of the
AmericansupportedMujahideen fighting the Soviet forces in Afghanistan.
Pakistan decided to broaden its foreign policy options after its relations with the US deteriorated following
secret CIA raid in Abbottabad that killed al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden in May 2011.
Its relations with the US were soured recently when US lawmakers blocked funds for the sale of eight
Lockheed Martin Corporations F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan.
Pakistan decided to look at alternative sources to purchase the aircraft including from Jordan. Over the last 15
months, the chiefs of Pakistans Army, Navy and Air Force travelled to Russia. The flurry of high-level
36
exchanges between the two nations resulted in the signing of a deal for the sale of four MI-35 attack
helicopters to Islamabad.
The formal agreement, which was signed in Moscow in August 2015, was considered a major policy shift on
part of Russia in the wake of growing strategic partnership between the US and India.
Islamabad is eager to improve its ties with Moscow to diversify its options in the event of any stalemate in ties
with Washington. After securing a deal of MI-35 helicopters, Pakistan is also exploring options to buy Su-35
fighter jets from Russia, it said.
57. MARSHALL IS CASE AGAINST INDIA AND PAK

Why in news?
The Marshall Islands plea against nuclear powers of the world, including India and Pakistan, was rejected today by
the International Court of Justice (ICJ).
Summary
The rejection marked a defeat of activists seeking nuclear disarmament in the world. The top United Nations
court accepted Indias argument that the International Court of Justice do not have any jurisdiction in the
suits filed by the Marshall Islands.
Marshall islands is a small South Pacific nation with a population of 53,000. It was the site of dozens of
atomic-bomb tests by the United States after the World War II.
As may as 23 nuclear devices were detonated by the US at Bikini atoll, which consists of 23 islands spread in
3.4 sq km area in the Marshall Islands, between 1946 and 1958. The area is still uninhabitable.
Marshall Islands had filed a number of suits in the ICJ. Through the suits, Marshall Islands had sought to urge
countries like Britain, India and Pakistan to resume negotiations to eradicate the worlds stockpile of nuclear
weapons.
The Marshall Islands had argued that nuclear powers werent doing enough to adhere to the 1970 Treaty on
the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons.
The Marshall Islands originally filed cases against all nine nations that have declared or are believed to possess
nuclear weapons: The U.S., Russia, Britain, France, China, India, Pakistan, Israel, and North Korea. But only
the cases against Britain, India, and Pakistan got to the preliminary stage of proceedings.
58. COLUMBIA- FARC PEACE

Why in news?
The Nobel Peace Prize for 2016 has been awarded to Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos for his efforts to end
his country's 50-year civil war. Santos and FARC leader Timochenko signed the 297-page accord in front of world
leaders and UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon
Summary
Santos negotiated a peace agreement with the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) guerrilla
group but the peace deal was rejected by a narrow majority of Colombians when it was put to referendum.
37
Santos has promised to revive the peace plan even though Colombians narrowly rejected it in the referendum.
Many voters believed it was too lenient on the FARC guerrillas. The Norwegian Nobel Committee said Santos
had brought one of the longest civil wars in modern history significantly closer to a peaceful solution.
More than 220,000 people have died on the battlefield or in massacres during the struggle between leftist
guerrillas, right-wing paramilitaries and government troops. Millions have been displaced and many beg on
the streets of the capital, while economic development has been stunted in the mostly rural nation.
Santos family once owned leading Colombian newspaper El Tiempo, where Santos worked as an editor before
turning to politics. He also trained as an economist at the London School of Economics. Santos was finance
minister in the 1990s, helping to steer Colombia through one of its worst fiscal crises.
Santos is the first Latin American to receive the peace prize since indigenous rights campaigner
RigobertaMenchu of Guatemala won in 1992, and is the second Colombian after writer Gabriel Garcia
Marquez, who won the literature prize in 1982.
59. CHINA BUILDS DAM ON BRAHMAPUTRAS TRIBUTARY
Why in news?
China has blocked a tributary of the Brahmaputra as part of a major hydro-electric project, whose construction began
in 2014.
Summary
China has blocked a tributary of the Brahmaputra as part of a major hydro-electric project, whose construction
began in 2014.
Chinas move coincides with the debate in India on the re-calibration of Indus water flows into Pakistan
following a cross-border raid in Uri that killed 18 Indian troops.
The multipurpose enterprise, which includes construction of two power stations with a combined generation
capacity of 42 MW, was scheduled for completion in 2019.
So far, China has maintained that its dams do not restrict the flow of water towards India as they are based on
run-of-the river principle.
60. ETCA
Why in news?
India is going to invest 2 billion dollars in Sri Lanka in the next three-four years. It was announced by Union
Minister for State (MoS) Commerce and Industry NirmalaSitharaman during her visit to Sri Lanka.
She had visited Sri Lanka for talks on the Economic and Technological Cooperation Agreement (ETCA) to
discuss the terms of the agreement.
38
Summary
ETCA agreement seeks to boost cooperation in scientific expertise, technical areas and research amongst
institutions between India and Sri Lanka.
It also seeks to boost standards of goods and services to compete on global market and improve
opportunities for manpower training and human resource development.
The ETCA initiative follows unfruitful negotiations on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement
(CEPA) between two countries.
Objectives of ETCA: (i) Strengthen and advance the economic, trade, investment and technology
cooperation. (ii) Promote further liberalization of trade in goods, trade in services and gradually establish
transparent, fair and facilitative trading, investment and investment protection mechanisms (iii) Establish a
cooperation mechanism and expand areas of economic cooperation.
61. INDIAN WORKERS IN MIDDLE EAST

As many as 400 migrant workers working for an electrical company in Qatar have gone unpaid for up to four
months. Indians comprise the largest single group of expatriates in Qatar, numbering around 5,45,000 out of
a total population of some 2.5 million.
The failure to pay them comes despite the introduction of a Wage Protection System (WPS) last November,
meant to ensure that wages are paid electronically.
Indian workers migration to the Gulf is a century old phenomenon, however, major breakthrough occurred
after the first oil boom (1973-74).
Today, approximately 7 million Indians work in six GCC countries, which is more than 50% of estimated 13
million foreign workers present in the GCC.
The Indian workers in GCC remit about US$40 billion i.e. around 57% of the total remittances, i.e. US$70
billion India receives annually.
Besides contributing significantly to the national forex reserves, the remittances received directly by the
workers families help in poverty alleviation, support local business, promote entrepreneurship and generate
employment.
62. EAST ASIA SUMMIT
Why in news?
Prime Minister NarendraModi attended 14th ASEAN-India Summit and 11th East Asia Summit at Vientiane,
capital city of Laos on 7-8 September.
The Summits was attended by Heads of State/Government of the 10 ASEAN and 18 East Asia Summit
Participating Countries respectively. In the margins, India Prime Minister held bilateral meetings with several
leaders.
39
Summary
At the 11th East Asia Summit, Leaders discussed matters of regional and international interest and concern
including maritime security, terrorism, non-proliferation, irregular migration, etc.
Three statements/declarations were adopted 1. The Vientiane Declaration on Promoting Infrastructure

Development Cooperation in East Asia; 2. An EAS Declaration on Strengthening Responses to Migrants in
Crisis and Trafficking in Persons; 3. An EAS Statement on Non-Proliferation.
The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a forum held annually by leaders of, initially, 16 countries in the East Asian,
Southeast Asian and South Asian regions.
India is one of the founding members of the East Asia Summit.
6.3 MTCR
Why in news?
India joined the Missile Technology Control Regime as a full member and said its entry would be mutually beneficial
to enhance global non-proliferation norms in missiles or drones capable of delivering weapons of mass destruction.
Implications for India
MTCR membership will enable India to buy high-end missile technology and also enhance its joint ventures
with Russia.
Indias efforts to get into the MTCR also got a boost after it agreed to join the Hague Code of Conduct, dealing
with the ballistic missile non-proliferation arrangement, earlier this month MTCR membership is expected to
facilitate high technology tie-ups with Indian industry and ease access to high-tech items for our space and
defenceprogrammes.
While membership of the regime would not automatically entail any preferential treatment from other MTCR
Partners, it would create the grounds for realignment of India in the export control policy framework of other
MTCR Partners.
64. OBOR
The first cargo train from China has reached Afghanistan on September 9, illustrating Beijings efforts to
consolidate ties with Kabul as part of the One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative along the ancient Silk Road.
China has quietly decided to exercise leadership in plugging the roots of instability in Afghanistan, Tajikistan
and Pakistan, following Washingtons diminishing role in the region, and compulsions of its One Belt One
Road (OBOR) initiative.
Recently top military commanders from China, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Tajikistan met in Urumqi, Xinjiang
province, to form a Quadrilateral Cooperation and Coordination Mechanism in Counter Terrorism.
China has also signalled its intent to establish diplomatic ties with Bhutan, adding another dimension to its
evolving South Asia policy, which has already included a deeper engagement with Nepal, as part of Beijings
One Belt One Road (OBOR) initiative.
40
The Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st-century Maritime Silk Road, also known as The Belt and Road
(B&R), One Belt, One Road (OBOR) or the Belt and Road Initiative is a development strategy and framework,
proposed by Chinese paramount leader Xi Jinping that focuses on connectivity and cooperation among
countries primarily between the People's Republic of China and the rest of Eurasia.
It consists of two main components, the land-based "Silk Road Economic Belt" (SREB) and oceangoing
"Maritime Silk Road" (MSR). The strategy underlines China's push to take a bigger role in global affairs, and
its need for priority capacity cooperation in areas such as steel manufacturing.
It was unveiled in 2013.
65. INDIA VIETNAM

Why in news?
India is poised to sell its sophisticated Akash missile defense system to Vietnam, the latest development in a broad
strategic relationship that has grown rapidly in recent years and added a new twist to the spiraling power contest in
the South China Sea.
Summary
The medium range surface-to-air missile, produced by New Delhis Ministry of Defense, can target aircraft,
helicopters and drones up to 25 kilometers away at a time when China is building up aerial defenses over
fixtures it claims in the contested maritime area.
India has also offered to sell its Varunastra anti-submarine torpedoes to Vietnam amid heightened tensions
with China.
Vietnam has steadily built up its military capabilities over the past decade, including a surge in new foreign
procurements with applicability in the hotly contested South China Sea.
The pending missile system sale comes to light after earlier talks on Vietnams bid to procure the Brahmos
short-range supersonic missile system, produced by an Indo-Russian joint venture, stalled without Russias
agreement.
66. AKASHVANI MAITREE

Why in news?
Akashvani Maitree, AIRs cross-border Bangla service was launched on August 23.
Summary
The Bangla radio service, launched in 1971 by the All India Radio during the Bangladesh Liberation Movement
.However it was discontinued in 2010.it is supposed to broadcast a mix of news and cultural programming. In
its current version the service will be broadcast in India and Bangladesh on 596 KHz.
The service is being re-launched twin objectives: To counter the presence of CRI (Chinese Radio International
with its strong programming) and to attract Bengali-speaking listeners from both countries.
Live-streaming of programmes online will cater to the Bengali Diaspora.
41
Joint-collaborations are being planned for future telecast. The Digital Radio Mondiale transmitter in
Chinsurah (West Bengal), will broadcast to neighbouring Bangladesh. The 1000 KW DRM super transmitter
costs over Rs. 80 crore and is expected to reach the remotest corners of Bangladesh.
The relaunch is being looked as an outreach to strengthen the shaky relations with our eastern neighbour as a
part of cultural diplomacy.
67. AN-32 REPLACEMENT

Why in news?
The medium transport aircraft, the planned replacement for the An-32s to be jointly developed by India and Russia,
seems uncertain with India being tentative on the project, while Russia deciding to go ahead following the long delay.
Summary
The two countries signed an inter-governmental agreement in 2007 to develop and produce the 20-tonne
aircraft to replace the An-32 transport aircraft in service in both the Indian and Russian air forces. In 2009,
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. (HAL) and the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) of Russia set up a joint venture
with an investment of $300 million each by the two air forces.
The UAC Il-214 Multi-role Transport Aircraft (MTA) is a medium-airlift military transport aircraft which is
being developed by the United Aircraft Corporation (UAC) of Russia, and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
(HAL) of India.
The MTA was intended to replace the Indian Air Force's ageing fleet of Antonov An-32 transport aircraft. It is
designed to perform regular transport duties and also to deploy paratroopers.
68. SAARC BUSINESS CARDS

Why in news
SAARC business cards have been launched by India for business people in SAARC countries for hassle free travel
Summary
The India Business Card is issued to those businessmen from SAARC countries who are eligible for issuance of
a multiple entry business visa for a period of three years or more.
First batch of 96 India Business Cards to businessmen from SAARC countries has been issued. The issue of
India Business Card is ongoing process.
69. CHINA REJECTION OF PCA

Why in news?
The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA), based in The Hague, Netherlands, recently ruled that Chinas claims of
historical rights over the South China Sea (SCS) has no legal basis. The case against China was initiated by the
Philippines.
42
Summary
The Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) has ruled that Chinas claims to the waters within the nine-dash
line, was in breach of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). The court also observed that China
has caused severe harm to the coral reef environment by building artificial islands.
The Philippines had lodged the suit against China in 2013 and has welcomed the ruling, but China has reacted
furiously, saying that it does not accept and does not recognise the decision.
China had even refused to participate in the case, saying that the tribunal had no jurisdiction over the issue.
It is important to note that this ruling, comes at a critical juncture, as China bolsters its global economic status.
China has a long-standing ambition to be accorded recognition as a market economy under the World Trade
Organization (WTO).
With reference to the current ruling by the tribunal, the U.S. cant exert much moral pressure as it has not even
ratified the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Conversely, since both China and the
Philippines have ratified the UNCLOS, there is more pressure on China to comply.
70. AIIB
Why in news?
The China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has approved first set of loans totalling US 509 million
dollars to finance projects in four countries viz. Bangladesh, Pakistan, Indonesia and Tajikistan.
These loans for the four projects were approved in Board of Directors meeting of AIIB held at its headquarters in
Beijing, China.
Summary
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is a multilateral development bank (MDB) conceived for the
21st century.
Through a participatory process, its founding members are developing its core philosophy, principles, policies,
value system and operating platform.
The Banks foundation is built on the lessons of experience of existing MDBs and the private sector.
Its modus operandi will be lean, clean and green: lean, with a small efficient management team and highly
skilled staff; clean, an ethical organization with zero tolerance for corruption; and green, an institution built on
respect for the environment.
The AIIB will put in place strong policies on governance, accountability, financial, procurement and
environmental and social frameworks.
The AIIB, a modern knowledge-based institution, will focus on the development of infrastructure and other
productive sectors in Asia, including energy and power, transportation and telecommunications, rural
infrastructure and agriculture development, water supply and sanitation, environmental protection, urban
development and logistics, etc.
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71. NDB VS AIIB

Like Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), New Development Bank is also a multilateral Development
Bank and both have the same objective i.e. to provide an alternative to west dominated World Bank and IMF.
However, there are two fundamental differences between the two.
While members of AIIB are 57 countries predominantly of Asia and Pacific region; NDB has five BRICS
countries has members.
The largest shareholders in AIIB are China and India with 30.34% and 8.52% share respectively. These two
countries have voting share of 26.06 and 7.5% respectively.
Since China itself has more than 25% voting share, it is going to dominate the veto power in the decisions of
the bank. On the other hand, decision making in the NDB is more democratic. Each member has one vote and
decisions are taken by simple voting method.
72. INDIA JOINS SCO

Why in news
India has been accorded full membership of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) along with Pakistan at its
Ufa summit held in Russia.
Summary
This membership will help India to work with the 6 members grouping to enhance connectivity, combat terror
and create an environment for boosting trade by easing barriers.
SCO is a Eurasian economic, political and military organisation.
Headquarters: Beijing, China
Established: 2001 in Shanghai by the leaders 6 countries viz. China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Russia,
Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.
It is an outcome of The Shanghai Five grouping established in 1996 by Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia
and Tajikistan.
SCOs first enlargement was in 2001 with addition of Uzbekistan and second enlargement was in July 2015
with addition of 2 new members India and Pakistan.
Presently it as four observers Afghanistan, Belarus, Iran andMangolia.
Since 2005, India was having an Observer status of SCO and had applied for full membership in 2014.
73. 50 YEARS OF UNCITRAL

Why in news?
India hosted the golden jubilee (50th anniversary) celebrations of United Nations Commission on International Trade
Law (UNCITRAL) in New Delhi.
44
Summary
UNCITRAL was established by the UN General Assembly (UNGA) in 1966 to promote the progressive
unification and harmonisation of international trade law.
It is the core legal body of the UN system in the field of international trade law. It specialises in reforms in
commercial law worldwide for a period of over 40 years.
India is a founding member of UNCITRAL. India is only one of eight countries which have been a member
of UNCITRAL since its inception.
IT has a membership of 60 States selected from among States Members of the UN. In 2015, India was re-
elected for a term of six years (2016-2022).
Out of total 60 members, 14 are Asian states, 14 are African, 10 Latin American & Caribbean states, 8
Eastern European and 14 Western European and other States.
These member states are selected to ensure the representation of various geographic, principal economic
and legal systems of the world.
74. APTTA
Afghan-Pakistan Transit Trade Agreement (APTTA) was signed in the presence of US Secretary of State
Hillary Clinton between Pakistan and Afghanistan on 18 July 2010.
According to the agreement, India cannot export goods to Afghanistan using the Wagah Border (Pakistan land
route) but Afghan trucks are permitted to carry export goods to India through the Wagah border.
Pakistan will also be able to use Afghan territory for its exports to Central Asian Republics.
75. SHANGRI-LA DIALOGUE

Asias largest annual security forum Shangri-La Dialogue was inaugurated in Singapore to talk about security
issues in the Asia-Pacific region.
The forum has been organised by the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). The
three day event will be attended by at least 20 Defence Ministers from Asia-Pacific countries including India
represented by Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar.
Territorial disputes in the South China Sea, North Koreas military provocations and Islamist extremism,
migration, cyber security, counterterrorism and military competition dominated discussions this year.
The dialogue gathers military representatives from worlds most powerful countries to discuss pressing and
significant defence and security issues.
The IISS Asia Security Summit was launched in 2002 by the Singaporean government and British think tank
the International Institute for Strategic Studies. This annual dialogue got its name from the location of the
meeting, the Shangri-La hotel in Singapore.
45
76. ASHGABAT AGREEMENT

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for India to accede to the Ashgabat Agreement, an international
transport and transit corridor.
The agreement facilitates transportation of goods between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf. India would
become party to the Agreement upon consent of the founding members.
Accession to the Agreement would enable India to
1. Utilise this existing transport and transit corridor to facilitate trade and commercial interaction and ties
with the Eurasian region.
2. Synchronise Indias efforts to implement the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) for
enhanced connectivity.
3. It will provide India an opportunity for reorientation of the freight traffic from the traditional sea route to
land transcontinental routes.
Background
It is a transit agreement established in year 2011.
It establishes international transport and transit corridor between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf
countries.
Its founding members are Uzbekistan, Iran, Turkmenistan and Oman. Kazakhstan had joined the grouping
in 2015.
77. RUSSIA AND TURKEY PACT

Russia & Turkey agreed to intensify military, intelligence contacts.
The Russian and Turkish leaders have agreed to intensify military and intelligence contacts after a meeting in
Istanbul, Turkey. After his meeting withTurkish President RecepTayyipErdogan, Russian President Vladimir
Putin said, they have agreed on the need for aid to get to the northern Syrian city of Aleppo.
The two countries have also signed a deal to construct two pipelines to send Russian gas under the Black Sea
to Turkey. Ties were strained after Turkish forces downed a Russian war plane in November 2015. Speaking at
a joint news conference with Mr Putin, Mr Erdogan said he was confident that the normalisation of relations
would take place rapidly.
78. ASEM
The 11th edition of the Asia-Europe Meeting Summit (ASEM11) was recently concluded in Ulaanbaatar.
The theme of the Summit is 20 Years of ASEM:Partnership for the Future through Connectivity.
Ulaanbaatar Declaration was adopted as an outcome document of the Summit, in which the participating
leaders from Asia and Europe renewed their political will and strong resolve to work together to promote
46
mutually beneficial partnership and co-operation between the two continents, with a view to building a better
future for the peoples of Asia and Europe.
The declaration has reaffirmed ASEMs commitment for greater partnership through informal political
dialogue and initiatives in economic and socio-cultural fields.
It also has expressed its commitment for united fight against terrorism and violent extremism.
The declaration will also focus on maritime security cyber security.
79. RIGHT TO CONSULAR ACCESS

KulbhushanJadhav, an Indian national and a retired Indian Navy officer was convicted of conducting
subversive activities for the Indian government in Pakistan and has been sentenced to death by a Pakistani
military court on April 10, 2017.
Pakistani authorities had reportedly arrested Jadhav in what they termed as a counter intelligence operation
in Balochistan on 3 March, 2016. He has remained in Pakistan's custody ever since.
Pakistan has violated of international law in the KulbhushanJadhav case by not allowing him consular
access till date.
The Vienna Convention on Consular Relations, 1963, is perhaps the most observed of international treaties.
India has signed and ratified it, as has Pakistan.
Article 36(1)(b) of the convention mandates that the person be informed of their right to consular access
immediately, and the consular authorities be informed of the arrest when it happens and visit them in jail and
arrange for legal assistance.
India has not enacted a domestic legislation despite being a signatory, just as it has not done in other treaties
such as the Convention against Torture, making it an outlier in international law.
80. URBAN PLUS APPROACH
Why in news?
The sixth edition of Asia Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development (APMCHUD) was held in
New Delhi.
Outcomes of the conference
Asia Pacific countries that account for over 55% of global urban population have resolved to adopt Urban Plus
approach. This was contained in the New Delhi Declaration adopted on the conclusion of the APMCHUD. It also
adopted implementation plan.
New Delhi Declaration
The New Delhi Declaration has strongly advocated planning for urban and adjoining rural areas in an
integrated manner instead of looking at them as independent entities.
47
The Declaration also called for a thorough review of existing policies and formulation of new policies
topromote New Urban Agenda adopted at the United Nations Conference on Housing and Sustainable
Development in Quito, Ecuador in October 2016.
Noting governance as the key to sustainable development, the Declaration stressed on the need for effective
governance structures in urban areas.
81. UNMOGIP
Why in news?
Swedish Major General PerLodin has been appointed in, as chief military observer and head of mission for UN
Military Observer Group in India & Pakistan (UNMOGIP), for the term of two years.
About UNMOGIP
It was established in 1948 to investigate and mediate the dispute between the two countries over Kashmir.
India does not recognize its mandate as it considers it to be a bilateral issue as recognized by the Shimla
agreement of 1972.
Recently, UN clarified that its mandate is limited to LoC, whereby it needs to report on the ceasefire between
the two countries along LoC. Thus, UN will no longer monitor situation in Kashmir.
82. IEA
Why in news
India joined the ranks of the IEAs membership as a Member by Associate".
Overview
The rationale was that the cooperation with the IEA would allow India to maximise the strategic depth of its
crude oil reserves, bring technical assistance but it would also come with a lot of obligations entailed by
membership.
With IEAs growing role in combating climate change, it allows the promotion of clean energy technologies in
some of the worlds largest carbon emitters.
It will provide India the geopolitical platform to take the lead in climate and energy issues.
It deepens the engagement with the IEA in achieving the Power for All initiative.
It would also give India an opportunity to become the voice of the developing world.e.g. International Solar
Alliance (ISA) initiative.
83. UNESCO CREATIVE CITIES NETWORK
Why in news
Two Indian cities, Varanasi and Jaipur, on 11 December 2015 have made it to the Creative City Network of the United
Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for the first time ever.
48
Summary
UCCN was launched in 2004. It aims to strengthen cooperation with and among cities that have recognised
creativity as a strategic factor of sustainable development in regards with the economic, social, cultural and
environmental aspects.
The Network covers seven creative fields including Crafts and Folk Arts, Film, Media Arts, Gastronomy,
Design, Literature and Music.
84. INDIA AND ANTARCTICA
Why in news
Drilling into the Antarctic ice by India began in December
Overview
This is an Indo-Norwegian project to understand the response of Antarctic ice shelves to the global warming.
It has begun in the less-studied areas of East Antarctica, especially the Dronning Maud Land (DML), which is
characterised by loosely-connected ice shelves along the 2000-km-long coast.
Ice shelves of East Antarctica are poorly understood when compared to the West Antarctica region.
Climatologists are increasingly worried about the large uncertainties in the future Antarctic contribution to the
global sea-level rise since the Antarctic contribution to the climate changes has increased significantly during
the past two decades.
Under the project, mass-balance, dynamics, and climate of the Dronning Maud Land coast, East Antarctica
(MADICE), geophysical field measurements, ice core drilling, ice-sheet modelling and satellite remote
sensing-based studies will be conducted to understand the future Antarctic contribution to the global sea-level
rise.
The researchers will try to better understand the current status and dynamics of ice shelves in Dronning Maud
Land to decipher its response to the future climate change, said a communication.
Studies on the mass balance and long-term evolution of the Antarctic ice rises (grounded ice mass leading to
an elevated part of the ice shelf) and assessment of its impact on the Antarctic ice-shelf stability and ice-sheet
loss too will be carried out.
Attempts will also be made to reconstruct the recent changes in Antarctic climate using ice cores and its
possible teleconnections to global climate.
The scientific programme, jointly funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, India and the Research Council,
Norway, has NCAOR and the Norwegian Polar Institute (NPI) as the partnering research institutions.
49
85. PRAVASI BHARATHIYA DIVAS
Why in news
The 14th edition of the three-day PravasiBharatiya Divas (PBD), the largest convergence of Indian diaspora
was held on 7-9 January in Bengaluru.
PBD-2017 has witnessed record participation of Indian Diaspora since its inception in 2003. Indian origin
Portuguese Prime Minister H.E AntAnio Costa was chief guest of PBD-2017.
86. YES BANK HAS BEEN AWARDED WITH GREEN BOND PIONEER AWARD
Why in news
Indias leading private lender Yes Bank has been awarded inaugural Green Bond Pioneer Award at a ceremony
held in London, United Kingdom.
Yes Bank was bestowed with this award in recognition for its pioneering efforts in the Green Bonds market
including successful issuance of Indias first ever Green Infrastructure Bonds.
Yes Bank Green Bond Initiatives
Yes Bank was the first Indian Bank to issue Green Infrastructure Bonds (GIBs) in India. It had issued
Indias first-ever GIBs worth 1,000 crore rupees in 2015.
Proceeds from these green bonds will be used to fund Renewable Energy projects including solar power and
wind power projects
Yes Bank along with International Finance Corporation (IFC) also had opened trading of the worlds first
Green Masala Bond worth 3.15 billion rupees listed on the London Stock Exchange.
87. NOBEL PRIZES
50
88. AMCDRR
Why in news
India hosted the 2016 Asian Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction (AMCDRR) from November 3 to 5,
2016 in New Delhi. This will be second time India has hosted AMCDRR.
Key facts
The conference will be hosted by Union Government in collaboration with the United Nations Office for
Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR).
It will adopt the Asian Regional Plan for Implementation of the Sendai Framework endorsed by the Asian
countries
AMCDRR is a biennial conference jointly organized by different Asian countries and the UNISDR. It was
established in 2005. So far, 6 AMCDRR conferences have been organised.
89. ISA
Why in news
UpendraTripathy, a former secretary of the renewable energy ministry, has been appointed interim director
general of the International Solar Alliance (ISA)
The first treaty-based international government organisation which is headquartered in India, ISA, was
launched at the UN Climate Change Conference in Paris in November 2015.
The ISA will strive to bring together more than 121 solar resource rich nations for coordinated research, low
cost financing and rapid deployment. The foundation stone of the ISA Headquarters was laid at GwalPahari,
Guragaon in Haryana.
90. SAARC CULTURAL CAPITAL

Why in news
Mahasthangarh, the 3rd century BC archaeological site in Bogra, Bangladesh, has been declared as the South
Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) cultural capital for the year 2016-17.
As a SARRC cultural capital, the historic place will host festivals on literature, films, foods and dances from
October 2016 to September 2017. Besides, the year 2016-17 has also be declared the SAARC Year of Cultural
Heritage.
Background
Every year, an archeologically and culturally rich city in the one of the 8 SAARC countries is declared as the
cultural capital for that year.
It was an outcome of Delhi Resolution which was adopted at the conference while preparing a road map on
cultural ties till 2017.
This development seeks at strengthening cultural ties among the people of SAARC nations. Bamiyan, a
historic city of Afghanistan, is the current SAARC cultural capital for 2015-16.
51
91. KALADAN MULTI-MODAL TRANSIT TRANSPORT PROJECT

The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project is a project that will connect the seaport of Kolkata with
Sittwe seaport in Myanmar by sea.
It will then link Sittwe seaport to Lashio in Myanmar via Kaladan river boat route and then from Lashio on to
Mizoram in India by road transport.
92. INDIA AFGHANISTAN FRIENDSHIP DAM

Why in news
Prime Minister NarendraModi and Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani jointly inaugurated the Afghan-India
Friendship Dam in Herat province in Western Afghanistan
Background
The Afghan-India Friendship Dam was earlier known as Salma Dam. It is built on Hari River in Chishti
Sharif District of Herat Province neighbouring Iran and is earth and rock fill dam.
It is a multipurpose project built to generate 42 MW of power, irrigate 75000 hectares of land, water supply
and other benefits to the people of Afghanistan.
By irrigating 75000 hectares of land it is expected to significantly boost the agricultural economy of the
province.
Central Public Sector Unit M/s. WAPCOS under the aegis of Union Ministry of Water Resources, River
Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.
The height of the Dam is 104.3 metres, length 540 metres and width at the bottom is 450 metres. The gross
capacity of the dam is 633 Million M3.
All equipment and material required for the dam were transported from India to Irans Bander-e-Abbas
port via sea route.
52
It was further transported by road to Islam Kila border post at Iran-Afghanistan border and then further
300 km by road from the border post to the site.
Hague code of conduct
India has joined the Hague Code of Conduct against Ballistic Missile Proliferation (HCoC), a global ballistic
missile proliferation regime.
India has joined the Code highlighting its readiness to further strengthen global non-proliferation objectives.
93. SYLHET CITY SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
Why in news
India and Bangladesh have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the sustainable development of
Sylhet, a metropolitan city in northeastern Bangladesh with financial aid from India.
Background
Under the MoU, three projects construction of six-storeyed Cleaner Colony Building and Development of
DhupaDighipar area, a five-storeyed Kindergarten and High School Building.
The signing of MoU was the follow-up of an earlier MoU which was signed between both countries in April
2013 for implementation of sustainable development projects in socio-economic sectors of Bangladesh.
India will also carry out similar sustainable development projects for Rajshahi under a MoU signed recently
in this regard.
94. PETRAPOLE INTEGRATED CHECK POST

The Prime Minister, ShriNarendraModi and the Prime Minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina today jointly
inaugurated the Petrapole Integrated Check Post through video-conferencing
Background
Petrapole-Benapole is an important land border crossing for India-Bangladesh trade. More than 50 per cent of
the India-Bangladesh trade passes through Petrapole.
Trade worth more than Rs. 15000 Crore takes place through the Petrapole ICP, which is more than all the
other Indian Land Ports and Land Customs Stations put together. Approximately 15 lakh people and 150,000
trucks cross Petrapole-Benapole every year.
Petrapole ICP will be the second ICP on the India-Bangladesh border after the Agartala ICP at the Agartala
(India)-Akhaura (Bangladesh) land border. It will also be the biggest land port in South Asia.
95. INDIA THAILAND FRIENDSHIP CAR RALLY

India flagged off a Friendship Motor Car Rally from India Gate lawns in Delhi to Bangkok.
53
About IMT trilateral Highway
The IndiaMyanmarThailand Trilateral Highway is an ambitious project of 1990 miles (3200 km) that will
connect India with the ASEAN region.
The highway will link Moreh in Manipur state (India), via Mandalay city (Myanmar) and to Mae Sot district
(Thailand).
Bangladesh has also been showing interest in joining the IMT highway through BIMSTEC.
96. INDIA AND SINGAPORE
Why in news?
Prime Minister of the Republic of Singapore Mr. Lee HsienLoong visited India recently.
During the visit the following agreements were signed:
o MoU in the field of Industrial Property Cooperation.
o MoU on Technical and Vocational Education and Training
o The agreements were signed for smart cities and skill India
India signed a third protocol with Singapore to amend the bilateral double taxation avoidance agreement
(DTAA), in a move to check tax evasion.
Key Facts
The India-Singapore DTAA at present provides for residence-based taxation of capital gains of shares in a
company. The Third Protocol amends the DTAA with effect from April, 2017 to provide for source based
taxation of capital gains arising on transfer of shares in a company.
It will allow India to levy capital gains tax on investments coming from Singapore.
The tax rate will be half the prevailing Indian rate for the next two years and rates will be equated by April
2019.
For first 2 years, India and Singapore will share the taxes on such gains equally and from third year onwards,
all such taxes will accrue to India.
97. CICA
Why in news?
Fifth foreign ministers meeting of the Conference was held in Beijing, China.
Background
Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures (CICA) in Asia is an inter-governmental forum
for enhancing cooperation towards promoting peace, security and stability in Asia.
54
CICA, which has 26 members including India, was formed based on a proposal by Kazakhstan President
NursultanNazarbayev in 1992 to further inter government consultations.
During the conference Chinese president unveiled security doctrine to counter U.S. pivot
China has invited Asian countries to join Beijing in framing a security governance model with Asian features
to counter the U.S. rebalance to the region.
President Xi Jinping urged participants to build consensus and step up dialogue to foster a security
governance model with Asian features.
98. AARDO
The Cabinet approved MoU for the triennium 2015 2017, between India and the African Asian Rural
Development Organization (AARDO).
The capacity building programs in the field of rural development will be organized every year during the
triennium at various Institutions in India.
99. FIPC
India hosted the second summit of the Pacific Islands countries, Forum for India-Pacific Islands Cooperation
(FIPIC).
The summit in Jaipur underlined the growing geostrategic importance of the 14 South Pacific islands that lie
at the centre of a key maritime route rich in resources and one of the largest voting blocs in the United
Nations.
Forum for India-Pacific Islands cooperation (FIPIC) is a multinational grouping developed in 2014 for
cooperation between India and 14 Pacific Islands nations which include Cook Islands, Fiji, Kiribati, Marshall
Islands, Micronesia, Nauru, Niue, Samoa, Solomon Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, Tuvalu and
Vanuatu.
All Head of state/head of government of the above countries met in Suva, Fiji in November 2014 for the first
time where the annual summit was conceptualized.

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A Shankar IAS Academy Initiative

GIST OF INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS 2016-17

UNHRC Council members recommended a revision in Indias policies on many subjects.

What is the issue?

2. CHINAS NEW AIRCRAFT CARRIER

China acquiring its second aircraft carrier to counter Indias defence.

What is the status of Chinese aircraft carrier?

What is the issue?

The buffer zone passes right through the capital, Nicosia.

What is the dispute about?

The UN intervened and deployed a peacekeeping force.

4. WHAT IS THE GREEN LINE AND UNFICYP?

Some 1,000 peacekeepers from 17 countries are currently in Cyprus.

India too deputes personnel to the conflict zone.

What is a snap election?

A snap election is an election called earlier than expected.

The next election was due on May 7 2020.

Parliament will be formally dissolved on May 3.

What was decided in the referendum?

7. BANNING NUCLEAR WEAPON

What is the issue?

Will a UN treaty to ban atomic weapons be another exercise in futility?

What is the new area of focus?

Where it all began?

What are the factors that aid current efforts?

8. IWT COMMISSIONERS MEET

What is the issue with the Miyar project?

With the 120 MW-capacity it is located in Himachal Pradesh's LahaulSpiti district.

It is the run-of-the river project with a barrage type structure.

Pakistan has proposed a surface gated free-overflow spillway design.

India agreed to change design of the project.

What are the other issues?

It is concrete faced rock fill dam.

9. GILGIT BALOCHISTAN-FIFTH PROVINCE

Background and implications

10. G4 OPEN TO NEW IDEAS

In a joint statement at an inter-governmental negotiations meeting, the G4 nations emphasised that an

11. THAAD MISSILES IN SOUTH KOREA

What is its significance?

12. NORTH KOREA CONDUCTS MISSILE TESTS

13. PAK RETURNS TO SAARC

The selection of SAARC Secretary General is consensus-based.

14. CHINS FIRST OVERSEAS BASE

15. INDIA GERMANY SIGN SOCIAL SECURITY AGREEMENT

16. INDIA-ISRAEL DEVELOP MISSILE FOR ARMY

17. INDIA RWANDA SIGN AVIATION DEALS

19. GANGA BASIN PROJECT

20. ROHINGYA ISSUE

The Rohingyas are a distinct Muslim ethnic group living in Myanmar.

21. RUSSIA BIG MILITARY PUSH IN ARCTIC

22. INDIA UAE SIGN STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP PACT

Such a partnership manifests itself in a variety of relationships

India has signed strategic partnerships with more than 30 countries

Not all strategic partnerships are equally important

In some cases, the security dimension may be the most important.

The two nations signed a strategic oil pact.

India's Strategic Oil Reserves

23. US ENVOY AND DALAI LAMAS VISIT TO ARUNACHAL PRADESH

24. US PULLS OUT OF TPP

25. CHAGOSARCHIPALEGO DISPUTE

What is the issue?

2,000 inhabitants were resettled in Mauritius and the Seychelles.

The UN resolutions banned the dismemberment of colonial territories before independence.

According to PCA, Mauritius holds legally binding rights