3 June 2016 – Daily Current Affairs

IIT Kharagpur’s new research says Civilization of Indus Valley 8000 years

A major study undertaken by a research group from IIT Kharagpur revealed some interesting facts. Indian researchers undertook major excavation across the Bhirrana sites of Haryana and found out that the ‘Indus Valley Civilization’ is comparatively older than previous calculations. The study also revealed that climatic conditions were not the sole reason behind the Harappa civilization collapse. The team that conducted this research comprised of ASI (Archaeological Survey of India), IIT Kharagpur team, Archaeology institute, DCP (Deccan College Pune) and PRL (Physical Research Laboratory). These findings were published in the known journal NSR (Nature Scientific Report) on 25^th May 2016. The potteries that were researched during this phase dated 8000 years back.

Raghavan Seetharaman, Indian banker conferred with GEV (Green Economy Visionary) Award

Raghavan Seetharaman, an Indian Banker based in Qatar was conferred with the GEV (Green Economy Visionary) Award on 30^th May 2016. Raghavan was given this award for his significant contribution in the environment-friendly activities as well as for promoting the ‘green economy’ for the past two decades. The award was presented to him during the 2016 UABIB Summit that took place in Rome. The awarded was presented to Raghavan by Md. Jarrah Al-Sabah, UAB (Union of Arab Banks Chairman). Raghavan is currently acting as Doha Bank’s Group CEO.

P Sreeramakrishnan appointed as KLA (Kerala Legislative Assembly) Speaker

On 3^rd June 2016, P Sreeramakrishnan appointed as KLA (Kerala Legislative Assembly) Speaker. He is a LDF (Left Democratic Front) candidate which is currently ruling party. He also rules the Ponnani constituency legislation twice. During the voting process, Sreeram grabbed 92 votes against VP Sajeendran of UDF from the Kunnathunadu constituency who could secure only 46 votes. Earlier on 25^th May 2016, Pinarayi Vjayan (CPI-M veteran) was elected as the12th CM of Kerala. The current ruling party won after a gap of 5 years.

‘Self-Made American Women List’ of Forbes includes two women of Indian origin

On 1^st June 2016, Forbes magazine announced it second yearly list of most successful and wealthiest self-made women of America which also included 60 trailblazers. This list in includes women who made their mark in this world through innovation and invention. This ‘Self-Made American Women List’ of Forbes included two women of Indian origin. Indian-born Neerja Sethi was ranked 16^th in this list while Jayshree Ullal, CEO and President of Arista Networks was ranked 30^th. The top rank was given to Diane Hendricks who is heading ABC Supply, the biggest wholesale distributor across America.

CCEA approved MTRL (Mau-Tarighat Railway Line) project

On 1^st June 2016, the CCEA (The Cabinet Committee of Economic Affairs) gave a go ahead for the construction of new BGL (Broad Gauze Line) between the Mau Station (North Eastern Railway) and Tarighat Terminal (East Central Railway). This broad gauge-line will be of 51 kilometers length. It is estimated that the project will cost around Rs. 1765.92 crore and the expected cost of completion is Rs. 2109.07 crore. The objective of this project is to provide shorter and alternative transport infrastructure that will be better and convenient and will help in minimizing transport difficulties and improve socio-economic development of the nation.