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The ICMR (Indian Council of medical Research) has decided a single Ct value cut-off for determining whether a patient is positive for Covid-19 Ct is a value that emerges during RT-PCR test. All patients with a Ct value less than 35 may be considered as positive while those with a …

The Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat has operationalised the third Joint Logistics Node (JLN) in Mumbai. Other operationalised JLNs are in Guwahati and Port Blair. Important points: These JLNs will provide integrated logistics cover to the Armed Forces for their small arms ammunition, rations, fuel, general stores, civil …

The Liquid Medical Oxygen (LMO) crisis during the second wave of Covid surge has been precipitated by a shortage of tankers and the daunting logistics of transportation from distant locations. Important points: It is high purity oxygen suitable for use in the human body. So, it is used for medical …

Recently, Saudi Arabia launched Saudi Green Initiative and the Middle East Green Initiative to combat the threat of climate change. Important points: One of the main pillars of the Saudi G20 presidency was to safeguard the planet. In 2020, G20 introduced initiatives like establishing a Global Coral Reef Research and …

The Prime Minister in a telephonic conversation with his Japanese counterpart discussed various issues including high technology, skill development and fighting the Covid-19 pandemic together. Important points: Highlighted the importance of close India-Japan cooperation to overcome challenges posed by the pandemic, such as by working together to create resilient, diversified …

Recently, the British Government said that the UK Carrier Strike Group’s “globe-spanning maiden deployment will feature visits to India, Japan, Republic of Korea and Singapore”. Earlier, the European Union had announced that it will reinforce its strategic focus, presence and actions in the Indo-Pacific with the aim of contributing to …

The Power Grid Corporation of India (PGCIL) launched its Infrastructure Investment Trust (InvIT) – PowerGrid Infrastructure Investment Trust (PGInvIT). Important points: This is the first time a state-owned entity (PGCIL) is monetizing its infrastructure assets through the InvIT route. This will be only the third InvIT to be listed in …

Recently, a top agriculture economist has suggested that the best chance of Crop Diversification is through animal agriculture/animal husbandry. Important points: Crop diversification refers to the addition of new crops or cropping systems to agricultural production on a particular farm taking into account the different returns from value- added crops …

Recently, India has been ranked 49th in the Chandler Good Government Index (CGGI). Finland has topped the list. Important points: The CGGI is released by the Chandler Institute of Governance which is a private nonprofit organization headquartered in Singapore. The Index classifies 104 countries in terms of government capabilities and …

Recently, the Prime Minister of India and US President had a telephone conversation with assurances exchanged on smoothening out issues related to supply chains for vaccines for Covid-19. The telephone call came in the background of not just flagging supply chain issues with the US with regard to vaccines but …