Top 5 Current Affairs: 18 February 2021

PM Narendra Modi launched ‘Mahabahu-Brahmaputra’ initiative in Assam

PM Narendra Modi virtually launched the ‘Mahabahu-Brahmaputra’ initiative in Assam on February 18, 2021. The Prime Minister also laid the foundation stone of Dhubri Phulbari bridge and performed bhumi pujan for Majuli Bridge construction. The initiative will help provide seamless connectivity to Eastern Parts of India.

Kumbh Mela 2021 to begin from April 1

The Uttarakhand Chief Secretary Om Prakash on February 18, 2021 announced the schedule and limits of Kumbh Mela 2021. The Kumbh Mela will be held for just 30 days this year. Earlier, the limit was 3 months. The Mela be held from April 1 to April 30, 2021.

UN calls for fair and even distribution of COVID-19 vaccines

Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, has called for fair and even distribution of the COVID-19 vaccines. Guterres criticised unfair global distribution of the vaccines amid the ongoing pandemic during a virtual meeting of the UNSC on February 17, 2021.

Cabinet approves Production-Linked Incentive scheme for telecom sector

The Union Cabinet granted its approval to the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for the telecom sector and network equipment manufacturers with a financial outlay of Rs. 12,195 crore. The scheme will be implemented over period of 5 years. The move will help boost the local manufacturing of the components.

Cabinet clears amendments to Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015

Union Cabinet granted its approval to the amendments of Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 on February 17, 2021. The amendment seeks to strengthen the child protection set-up and ensure the best interest of children.