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68+in UPSC Civil Services Prelims 2017-How IASbaba Helped One to Get MAINS Call!

Dear Friends, It is but natural that the innate need to show or to propound to the world the goodness one feels to contribute to others!! Whether be it a cricketer who scores to win the game for his side or a teacher who helps his student win the battle in the form of exam. At IASbaba we always believe in holistic ,affordable and integrated approach to crack the IAS examination. Our flagship Online Program ILP (Integrated Learning Program ) is a step in that direction. Last year we had written “The first guru is most important guru. You choose him/her right and yes you will be on the right path.” Saumya Pandey -Rank 4 and Dinesh Kumar- Rank 6, proved us right in cracking the exam sitting at Allahabad. Both were our ILP Students  UPSC/IAS TOPPER'S STRATEGY: Saumya Pandey (Rank 4) 1st Attempt CSE  2016-IASbaba's ILP Student We are happy that we are able to contribute to the prelims success of innumerable students through our ILP program and much famed 60 day program . At IASbaba we had an hint that the prelims paper of 2017 would be static application. That is the same reason we had set the Second Open Mock on tougher side on static side alone. We have got countless “ Thank you “ for the same We are only happy that we helped students prepare better. And this for the third successful year , We have done it!! This will only make you feel better that you followed the right path! Note that few questions have come from last years current affairs and even before. We are not claiming all questions to be direct hit as it cannot be. UPSC has its own way of asking questions. A sincere aspirant consistent with all the initiative must have got through many of the questions with ease. Many direct references are there and our followers will easily relate with them  Note- Answer is put in BOLD 1. Which one of the following was a very important seaport in the Kakatiya kingdom? (a) Kakinada (b) Motupalli (c) Machilipatnam (Masulipatnam) (d) Nelluru 2. With reference to 'Global Climate Change Alliance', which of the following statements is/are correct? It is an initiative of the European Union. It provides technical and financial support to targeted developing countries to integrate climate change into their development policies and budgets. It is coordinated by World Resources Institute (WRI) and World Business Council for Sustainable Development (WBCSD). Select the correct answer using the code given below:                   (a) 1 and 2 only                   (b) 3 only                   (c) 2 and 3 only                   (d) 1, 2 and 3 3. With reference to the religious history of India, consider the following statements: Sautrantika and Sammitiya were the sects of Jainism. Sarvastivadin held that the constituents of phenomena were not wholly momentary, but existed forever in a latent form. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 4. Mediterranean Sea is a border of which of the following countries? Jordan Iraq Lebanon Syria Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 3 and 4 only Reference: Current Affairs Class Test 13 Q.27)  5. With reference to 'National Investment and Infrastructure Fund', which of the following statements is/are correct? It is an organ of NITI Aayog. It has a corpus of Rs. 4, 00,000 crore at present. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Set 2 Test 1 Polity – Q.29, Q.67) Mock 1, Test series; Q.23 Economics test, Prelims Test Series http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/49/sections/48/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/84/sections/81/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/99/sections/102/ 6. The Global Infrastructure Facility is a/an (a) ASEAN initiative to upgrade infrastructure in Asia and financed by credit from the Asian Development Bank. (b) World Bank collaboration that facilitates the preparation and structuring of complex infrastructure Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) to enable mobilization of private sector and institutional investor capital. (c) Collaboration among the major banks of the world working with the OECD and focused on expanding the set of infrastructure projects that have the potential   to mobilize private investment. (d) UNCTAD funded initiative that seeks to finance and facilitate infrastructure development in the world. 7. For election to the Lok Sabha, a nomination paper can be filed by (a) anyone residing in India. (b) a resident of the constituency from which the election is to be contested. (c) any citizen of India whose name appears in the electoral roll of a constituency. (d) any citizen of India. Reference: Q.14) 60 Day Mock 2 – Explanation http://iasbaba.com/2017/06/iasbabas-india-prelims-open-mock-test-2-live/ 8. Consider the following statements: In India, the Himalayas are spread over five States only. Western Ghats are spread over five States only. Pulicat Lake is spread over two States only. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 and 3 only Reference: Set 2 Block 4 Geography Part 1 Value Add Similarly Western Ghats as well as Pulikat lake is clearly explained further in the VAN 9. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is a standard criterion for (a) Measuring oxygen levels in blood (b) Computing oxygen levels in forest ecosystems (c) Pollution assay in aquatic ecosystems (d) Assessing oxygen levels in high altitude regions Reference: Q.15) 60 Day plan (Day 36) and  Q.5) Environment & CA-Test Series ttp://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/97/sections/85/ http://iasbaba.com/2017/05/iasbabas-60-day-plan-prelims-test-2017-environment-current-affairs-day-36/ 10. With reference to the role of UN-Habitat in the United Nations programme working towards a better urban future, which of the statements is/are correct? UN-Habitat has been mandated by the United Nations General Assembly to promote socially and environmentally sustainable towns and cities to provide adequate shelter for all. Its partners are either governments or local urban authorities only. UN-Habitat contributes to the overall objective of the United Nations system to reduce poverty and to promote access to safe drinking water and basic sanitation. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 only Reference: Full Coverage in Babapedia-9th May and Q.19) 60 Day Plan [Day 56] http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2017/05/09/9th-may-india-elected-to-head-un-habitat-the-united-nations-human-settlements-programme/ http://iasbaba.com/2017/05/iasbabas-60-day-plan-prelims-test-2017-history-current-affairs-day-56/ 11. With reference to 'National Skills Qualification Framework (NSQF)', which of the statements given below is/are correct? Under NSQF, a learner can acquire the certification for competency only through formal learning. An outcome expected from the implementation of NSQF is the mobility between vocational and general education. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 12. In the context of Indian history, the principle of `Dyarchy (diarchy)' refers to (a) Division of the central legislature into two houses. (b) Introduction of double government i.e., Central and State governments. (c) Having two sets of rulers; one in London and another in Delhi. (d) Division of the subjects delegated to the provinces into two categories. Reference: Q.11) Modern History and Current Affairs- Test Series and  Q.12) 60 days compilation- History [Day 7] http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/95/sections/83/ http://iasbaba.com/2017/04/iasbabas-60-day-plan-prelims-test-2017-history-current-affairs-day-7/ 13. Consider the following in respect of 'National Career Service': National Career Service is an initiative of the Department of Personnel and Training, Government of India. National Career Service has been launched in a Mission Mode to improve the employment opportunities to uneducated youth of the country. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Babapedia 6th April http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2017/04/06/6th-april-government-takes-steps-to-generate-employment-opportunities/ 14. Which of the following statements best k describes the term 'Scheme for Sustainable Structuring of Stressed Assets (S4A)', recently seen in the news? (a) It is a procedure for considering ecological costs of developmental schemes formulated by the Government. (b) It is a scheme of RBI for reworking the financial structure of big corporate entities facing genuine difficulties. (c) It is a disinvestment plan of the Government regarding Central Public Sector Undertakings. (d) It is an important provision in 'The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code' recently implemented by the Government. Reference: Babapedia  - 7th Nov and Q.96) Mock Test 1, Test Series http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/11/07/7th-november-sustainable-structuring-of-stressed-assets/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/84/sections/81/ 15. Consider the following statements: Climate and Clean Air Coalition (CCAC) to Reduce Short Lived Climate Pollutants is a unique initiative of G20 group of countries. The CCAC focuses on methane, black carbon and hydrofluorocarbons. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Q.93) Environment and Current Affairs-Test Series http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/93/sections/79/ 16. With reference to 'Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD)' sometimes mentioned in the news while forecasting Indian monsoon, which of the following statements is/are correct? IOD phenomenon is characterised by a difference in sea surface temperature between tropical Western Indian Ocean and tropical Eastern Pacific Ocean. An IOD phenomenon can influence an El Nino's impact on the monsoon. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Daily Current Affairs Quiz (Day 61); Q.23) Day 60, 60 Day Environment http://iasbaba.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Daily-Quiz-16th-November.pdf http://iasbaba.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/Daily-Quiz-16th-November.pdf https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6YbwZa7rGX8azNzQm9zaGFnenM/view 17. If you want to see gharials in their natural habitat, which one of the following is the best place to visit? (a) Bhitarkanika Mangroves (b) Chambal River (c) Pulicat Lake (d) Deepor Beel Reference: Babapedia-Under Environment-Conservation-International Festivals of Birds, Q.9) Set 6 Environment ILP; Q.78) Environment and Current Affairs -Test Series http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/08/23/international-festival-on-birds/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/110/sections/91/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/93/sections/79/ 18. Consider the following in respect of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS): Inaugural IONS was held in India in 2015 under the chairmanship of the Indian Navy. IONS is a voluntary initiative that seeks to increase maritime cooperation among navies of the littoral states of the Indian Ocean Region. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Babapedia-13th December and Q.6) 60 Day Plan 2016 (Day 13)  http://test.iasbaba.com/posts/iasbaba-60-day-plan-prelims-test-2016-day-13/ http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/12/13/13th-december-indian-ocean-naval-symposium-ions/ 19. The painting of Bodhisattva Padmapani is one of the most famous and oft-illustrated paintings at (a) Ajanta (b) Badami (c) Bagh (d)  Ellora Reference: Set 3 Ancient History Value Add, Page 51 20. Consider the following pairs:    Traditions                                            Communities 1. Chaliha Sahib Festival                —           Sindhis 2. Nanda Raj Jaat Yatra                  —           Gonds 3. Wari-Warkari                                 —           Santhals Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) None of the above 21. Which of the following practices can help in water conservation in agriculture? ‎ ‎Reduced or zero tillage of the land ‎ Applying gypsum before irrigating the field ‎ Allowing crop residue to remain in the field ‎ Select the correct answer using the code given below: ‎ ‎(a) 1 and 2 only‎ ‎(b) 3 only ‎ ‎(c)  1 and 3 only ‎ ‎(d) 1, 2 and 3 22. Consider the following statements: The nation-wide 'Soil Health Card Scheme' aims at Expanding the cultivable area under irrigation. Enabling the banks to assess the quantum of loans to be granted to farmers on the basis of soil quality. Checking the overuse of fertilisers in farmlands. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: Q.16) Environment and Current Affairs-Test Series and Q.94) Economy and Current Affairs- Test Series http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/90/sections/76/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/97/sections/85/ 23. Consider the following pairs: Commonly used /                                                 Unwanted or controversial chemicals consumed materials                                                       likely to be found in them 1. Lipstick                                                                             Lead 2. Soft drinks                                                                      Brominated vegetable oils 3. Chinese fast food                                                        Monosodium glutamate Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 24. Organic Light Emitting Diodes (OLEDs) are used to create a digital display in many devices. What are the advantages of OLED displays over Liquid Crystal displays? OLED displays can be fabricated on flexible plastic substrates. Roll-up displays embedded in clothing can be made using OLEDs. Transparent displays are possible using OLEDs. Select the correct answer using the code given below (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 1, 2 and 3 (d) None of the above statements is correct Reference: Q.15) 60 day plan - Day 41 http://iasbaba.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/05/IASbabas-60-Day-2017-Day-41-min.pdf 25. Which of the following is/are famous for Sun temples? Arasavalli Amarakantak Omkareshwar Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 26. Consider the following statements: In the election for Lok Sabha or State Assembly, the winning candidate must get at least 50 percent of the votes polled, to be declared elected. According to the provisions laid down in the Constitution of India, in Lok Sabha, the Speaker's post goes to the majority party and the Deputy Speaker's to the Opposition. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Q.12) 2nd Statement - 60 Day Mock 1 - Explanation & Q.44) 1st Statement- S 1: T 1 - POLITY & SCIENCE – Explanation (ILP 2017) http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/65/sections/65/ http://iasbaba.com/2017/06/iasbabas-india-prelims-open-mock-test-1-live/ 27. Which of the following has/have occurred in India after its liberalization of economic policies in 1991? Share of agriculture in GDP increased enormously. Share of India's exports in world trade increased. FDI inflows increased. India's foreign exchange reserves increased enormously. Select the correct answer using the codes given below: (a) 1 and 4 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Reference: Q.50) Economics and Current Affairs- Test Series http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/99/sections/102/ 28. What is the application of Somatic Cell CJ Nuclear Transfer Technology? (a) Production of bio-larvicides (b) Manufacturer of biodegradable plastics (c) Reproductive cloning of animals (d) Production of organisms free of diseases Reference: Babapedia-2nd February and Q.8 Day 11, 60 day plan http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2017/02/02/2nd-february-new-tb-resistant-cows-developed-in-china/ http://iasbaba.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/IASbabas-60-Day-Plan-2017-Day-11-min.pdf 29. Consider the following statements: National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) helps in promoting the financial inclusion in the country. NPCI has launched RuPay, a card payment scheme. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Daily Current Affairs-4th March, Daily Current Affairs Quiz- Day 4, Q.94) SET 5 Full Mock 5, ILP Tests http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/109/sections/90/ http://iasbaba.com/2016/08/iasbaba-daily-current-affairs-quiz-day-4/ 30. The term M-STrIPES' is sometimes seen in the news in the context of (a) Captive breeding of Wild Fauna (b) Maintenance of Tiger Reserves (c) Indigenous Satellite Navigation System (d) Security of National Highways 31. What is/are the most likely advantages of implementing 'Goods and Services Tax (GST)'? It will replace multiple taxes collected by multiple authorities and will thus create a single market in India. It will drastically reduce the 'Current Account Deficit' of India and will enable it to increase its foreign exchange reserves. It will enormously increase the growth and size of economy of India and will enable it to overtake China in the near future. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: Q.1) Eco Survey Test - Test Series/Daily Current Affairs, Big Picture, Yoj/Kurukshetra http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/101/sections/104/ 32. 'Broad-based Trade and Investment Agreement (BTIA)' is sometimes seen in the news in the context of negotiations held between India and (a) European Union (b) Gulf Cooperation Council (c) Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (d) Shanghai Cooperation Organization Reference: Babapedia-17th November http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/11/17/17th-november-impact-of-ftas/ 33. Consider the following statements: India has ratified the Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) of WTO. TFA is a part of WTO's Bali Ministerial Package of 2013. TFA came into force in January 2016. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: Babapedia-28th March and 28th September, Q.7) Environment and Current Affairs-Test Series http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2017/03/28/28th-march-trade-facilitation-agreement-of-wto/ http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/09/28/28th-september-world-trade-organisation-explainer-part-1/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/93/sections/79/ 34. What is the importance of developing Chabahar Port by India? (a) India's trade with African countries will enormously increase. (b) India's relations with oil-producing Arab countries will be strengthened. (c) India will not depend on Pakistan for access to Afghanistan and Central Asia. (d) Pakistan will facilitate and protect the installation of a gas pipeline between Iraq and India. Reference: Babapedia-Map Based Geography-Development of Chabahar Port http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/08/24/development-of-chabahar-port/ 35. In India, it is legally mandatory for which of the following to report on cyber security incidents? Service providers Data centres Body corporate Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 36. Right to vote and to be elected in India is a (a) Fundamental Right (b) Natural Right (c) Constitutional Right (d) Legal Right Reference: Q.1) S 2: T 1 – POLITY- ILP Tests http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/49/sections/48/ 37. What is the purpose of 'evolved Laser Interferometer Space Antenna (eLISA)' project? (a) To detect neutrinos (b) To detect gravitational waves (c) To detect the effectiveness of missile defence system (d) To study the effect of solar flares on our communication systems Reference: Babapedia-S&T; Recent Developments-Gravitational Waves Interferometer is for Gravitational Waves  http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/08/23/gravitational-waves/ 38. What is the purpose of Vidyanjali Yojana'? To enable the famous foreign educational institutions to open their campuses in India. To increase the quality of education provided in government schools by taking help from the private sector and the community. To encourage voluntary monetary contributions from private individuals and organizations so as to improve the infrastructure facilities for primary and secondary schools. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 2 only (d) 2 and 3 only Reference: IASbaba's PIB, Q.12, 60 Day 2016-Day 36 http://iasbaba.com/2016/06/iasbaba-60-day-plan-prelims-test-2016-environment-current-affairs-day-36/ http://iasbaba.com/2016/06/iasbaba-press-information-bureau-pib-13th-june-to-19th-june-2016/ 39. What is the aim of the programme `Unnat Bharat Abhiyan'? (a) Achieving 100% literacy by promoting collaboration between voluntary organizations and government's education system and local communities. (b) Connecting institutions of higher education with local communities to address development challenges through appropriate technologies. (c) Strengthening India's scientific research institutions in order to make India a scientific and technological power. (d) Developing human capital by allocating special funds for health care and education of rural and urban poor, and organizing skill development programmes and vocational training for them. Reference: Q.27)  Eco Survey/IYB and Current Affairs- Test Series and Babapedia-Unnat Bharat Abhiyan http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/08/24/unnat-bharat-abhiyan/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/101/sections/104/ 40. Consider the following statements: The Election Commission of India is a five-member body. Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the election schedule for the conduct of both general elections and bye-elections. Election Commission resolves the disputes relating to splits/mergers of recognised political parties. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 3 only Reference: Q.78) Geography Test Set 6-ILP Tests & Q.143) Polity 60 day Compilation – Explanation http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/96/sections/84/ 41. In India, if a species of tortoise is declared protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, what does it imply? (a) It enjoys the same level of protection as the tiger. (b) It no longer exists in the wild, a few individuals are under captive protection, and now it is impossible to prevent its extinction. (c) It is endemic to a particular region of India. (d) Both (b) and (c) stated above are correct in this context. Reference: Q.71) Environment and CA-Test Series- Explanation http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/97/sections/85/ 42. In India, Judicial Review implies (a) the power of the Judiciary to pronounce upon the constitutionality of laws and executive orders. (b) the power of the Judiciary to question the wisdom of the laws enacted by the Legislatures. (c) the power of the Judiciary to review all the legislative enactments before they are assented to by the President. (d) the power of the Judiciary to review its own judgements given earlier in similar or different cases. Reference: Q.75) Polity 60 day Compilation – Explanation http://iasbaba.com/2017/06/prelims-2017-exclusive-polity-iasbabas-60-day-plan-subject-wise-compilation/ 43. With reference to Indian freedom struggle, consider the following events: Mutiny in Royal Indian Navy Quit India Movement launched Second Round Table Conference What is the correct chronological sequence of the above events? (a) 1-2-3 (b) 2-1-3 (c) 3-2-1 (d) 3-1-2 Reference: Q.61) History 60 day Compilation http://iasbaba.com/2017/06/prelims-2017-exclusive-history-iasbabas-60-day-plan-subject-wise-compilation/ 44. Consider the following statements: Tax revenue as a percent of GDP of India has steadily increased in the last decade. Fiscal deficit as a percent of GDP of India has steadily increased in the last decade. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 45. Recently there was a proposal to translocate some of the lions from their natural habitat in Gujarat to which one of the following sites? (a) Corbett National Park (b) Kuno Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary (c) Mudumalai Wildlife Sanctuary (d) Sariska National Park 46. Which of the following are not necessarily the consequences of the proclamation of the President's rule in a State? Dissolution of the State Legislative Assembly Removal of the Council of Ministers in the State Dissolution of the local bodies Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: Q.143) Polity 60 day Compilation – Explanation & Q.149) Polity 60 day Compilation – Explanation & Q.82) Full Mock 3 – Explanation http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/104/sections/105/ 47. Which of the following are envisaged by the Right against Exploitation in the Constitution of India? Prohibition of traffic in human beings and forced labour Abolition of untouchability Protection of the interests of minorities Prohibition of employment of children in factories and mines Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 4 only (b) 2, 3 and 4 only (c) 1 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Reference: SET 2 Block 1 Value Add Notes-ILP 48. Which of the following is geographically closest to Great Nicobar ? (a) Sumatra (b) Borneo (c) Java (d) Sri Lanka 49. Out of the following statements, choose the one that brings out the principle underlying the Cabinet form of Government: (a) An arrangement for minimizing the criticism against the Government whose responsibilities are complex and hard to carry out to the satisfaction of all. (b) A mechanism for speeding up the activities of the Government whose responsibilities are increasing day by day. (c) A mechanism of parliamentary democracy for ensuring collective responsibility of the Government to the people. (d) A device for strengthening the hands of the head of the Government whose hold over the people is in a state of decline. Reference: Q.7) Polity 60 day Compilation & Q.12) S 1: T 1 - POLITY & SCIENCE – Explanation ILP Tests http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/65/sections/65/ 50. Which one of the following is not a feature of Indian federalism? (a) There is an independent judiciary in India. (b) Powers have been clearly divided between the Centre and the States. (c) The federating units have been given unequal representation in the Rajya Sabha. (d) It is the result of an agreement among the federating units. Reference: Q.94) Polity 60 day Compilation- Explanation & Q.99) Polity 60 day Compilation & Q.72) Mock 2 -60 day Compilation & Q. 46) Polity + CA Question (Test Series) http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/68/sections/68/ 51. The object of the Butler Committee of 1927 was to? (a) Define the jurisdiction of the Central and Provincial Governments. (b) Define the powers of the Secretary of State for India. (c) Impose censorship on national press. (d) Improve the relationship between the Government of India and the Indian States. Reference: Q.62) Full Mock 1-Test Series, ILP http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/84/sections/81/ 52. The term 'Domestic Content Requirement' is sometimes seen in the news with reference to (a) Developing solar power production in our country (b) Granting licences to foreign T.V. channels in our country (c) Exporting our food products to other countries (d) Permitting foreign educational institutions to set up their campuses in our country Reference: 17th September Daily Current Affairs Analysis http://iasbaba.com/2016/09/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-17th-september-2016/ 53. Consider the following statements: The Nuclear Security Summits are periodically held under the aegis of the United Nations. The International Panel on Fissile Materials is an organ of International Atomic Energy Agency. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Daily Current Affairs and TLP http://iasbaba.com/2016/11/2-goals-nuclear-security-summit-2016-think-nss-can-provide-effective-solution-nuclear-threat-critically-examine/ 54. Who among the following can join the National Pension System (NPS)? (a) Resident Indian citizens only (b) Persons of age from 21 to 55 only (c) All State Government employees joining the services after the date of notification by the respective State Governments. (d) All Central Government employees including those of Armed Forces joining the services on or after 1st April 2004 Reference: Q.14) Set 2 – Test 3 ILP and Q.45 Eco Survey/IYB Test- Test Series http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/50/sections/49/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/101/sections/104/ 55. With reference to river Teesta, consider the following statements: The source of river Teesta is the same as that of Brahmaputra but it flows through Sikkim. River Rangeet originates in Sikkim and it is a tributary of river Teesta. River Teesta flows into Bay of Bengal on the border of India and Bangladesh. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: Q.79 Set 6 ILP Tests- Ancient and Medieval Full Test  http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/116/sections/97/ 56. Consider the following statements: In tropical regions, Zika virus disease is transmitted by the same mosquito that transmits dengue. Sexual transmission of Zika virus disease is possible. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Q.72) SET 6 Science ILP Tests and Babapedia http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/114/sections/95/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/114/sections/95/ http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/09/26/26th-september-culex-mosquitoes-not-zika-virus-carriers/ 57. Consider the following statements: The Standard Mark of Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is mandatory for automotive tyres and tubes. AGMARK is a quality Certification Mark issued by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO). Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Q.22) 60 Day Plan- Day 60, 2016 https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6YbwZa7rGX8azNzQm9zaGFnenM/view 58. What is/are the advantage/advantages of implementing the 'National Agriculture Market' scheme? It is a pan-India electronic trading portal for agricultural commodities. It provides the farmer's access to a nationwide market, with prices commensurate with the quality of their produce. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Daily Current Affairs, 24th April 2017 http://iasbaba.com/2017/04/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-24th-april-2017/ 59. With reference to the 'National Intellectual Property Rights Policy', consider the following statements: It reiterates India's commitment to the Doha Development Agenda and the TRIPS Agreement. Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion is the nodal agency for regulating intellectual property rights in India. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Babapedia -6th and 29th September and Q.82) Modern History Set 6 ILP Tests http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/09/29/29th-september-national-ipr-policy/ http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/09/06/6th-september-copyright-act-now-covers-online-streaming/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/112/sections/93/ 60. According to the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, which of the following animals cannot be hunted by any person except under some provisions provided by law? Gharial Indian wild ass Wild Buffalo Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: ILP Value Add Notes-Environment  61. Which of the following statements is/are true of the Fundamental Duties of an Indian citizen? A legislative process has been provided to enforce these duties. They are correlative to legal duties. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: PPT - 1st Statement- Session 11 Slide 13 (Offline Class), Polity Compilation-60 Days- Q.21) Explanation http://iasbaba.com/2016/07/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-15th-july-2016/ https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6YbwZa7rGX8bFB1LWlUYkFiZlE/view 62. Consider the following pairs: Radhakanta Deb — First President of the British Indian Association Gazulu Lakshminarasu Chetty —Founder of the Madras Mahajana Sabha Surendranath Banerjee — Founder of the Indian Association Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference:Q.24) History 60 Days Compilation https://drive.google.com/file/d/0B6YbwZa7rGX8OGZBX3V5alNxck0/view 63. Which one of the following objectives is not embodied in the Preamble to the Constitution of India? (a) Liberty of thought (b) Economic liberty (c) Liberty of expression (d) Liberty of belief Reference: Q.24) Polity 60 day Compilation – Explanation & Q.42) S 1: T 1 - POLITY & SCIENCE – Explanation ILP Tests http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/65/sections/65/ 64. With reference to 'Quality Council of India (QCI)', consider the following statements: QCI was set up jointly by the Government of India and the Indian Industry. Chairman of QCI is appointed by the Prime Minister on the recommendations of the industry to the Government. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c)  Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Daily Current Affairs, 15th March http://iasbaba.com/2017/03/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-15th-march-2017/ 65. What is the purpose of setting up of Small  Finance Banks (SFBs) in India? To supply credit to small business units To supply credit to small and marginal farmers To encourage young entrepreneurs to set up business particularly in rural areas. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: Q.8) Economics and Current Affairs - Test Series http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/99/sections/102/ 66. With reference to 'Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Housing and Urban Development (APMCHUD)', consider the following statements: The first APMCHUD was held in India in 2006 on the theme 'Emerging Urban Forms — Policy Responses and Governance Structure'. India hosts all the Annual Ministerial Conferences in partnership with ADB, APEC and ASEAN. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 67. Democracy's superior virtue lies in the fact 9 that it calls into activity (a) the intelligence and character of ordinary men and women. (b) the methods for strengthening executive leadership. (c) a superior individual with dynamism and vision. (d) a band of dedicated party workers. 68. Which of the following is a most likely consequence of implementing the 'Unified Payments Interface (UPI)’? (a) Mobile wallets will not be necessary for online payments. (b) Digital currency will totally replace the physical currency in about two decades. (c) FDI inflows will drastically increase. (d) Direct transfer of subsidies to poor people will become very effective. Reference: Babapedia 26th August, Q.29) Science Test-Set 6, Q.38) SET 1-Test 1, ILP Tests http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/08/26/26th-august-unified-payments-interface-based-upi-based-app/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/65/sections/65/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/114/sections/95/ 69. The terms 'Event Horizon', 'Singularity', `String Theory' and 'Standard Model' are sometimes seen in the news in the context of (a) Observation and understanding of the Universe (b) Study of the solar and the lunar eclipses (c) Placing satellites in the orbit of the Earth (d) Origin and evolution of living organisms on the Earth 70. With reference to agriculture in India, how can the technique of `genome sequencing', often seen in the news, be used in the immediate future? Genome sequencing can be used to identify genetic markers for disease resistance and drought tolerance in various crop plants. This technique helps in reducing the time required to develop new varieties of crop plants. It can be used to decipher the host-pathogen relationships in crops. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 71. The main advantage of the parliamentary form of government is that (a) the executive and legislature work independently. (b) it provides continuity of policy and is more efficient. (c) the executive remains responsible to the legislature. (d) the head of the government cannot be changed without election. Reference: Q.2) Polity 60 day Compilation & Q.65) Polity + CA Question (Test Series ) http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/68/sections/68/ 72. In the context of India, which one of the following is the correct relationship between Rights and Duties? (a) Rights are correlative with Duties. (b) Rights are personal and hence independent of society and Duties. (c) Rights, not Duties, are important for the advancement of the personality of the citizen. (d) Duties, not Rights, are important for the stability of the State. Reference: Daily Current Affairs-15th July  http://iasbaba.com/2016/07/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-15th-july-2016/ 73. The mind of the makers of the Constitution of India is reflected in which of the following? (a) The Preamble (b) The Fundamental Rights (c) The Directive Principles of State Policy (d) The Fundamental Duties Reference: Q.4) & Q.24) Polity 60 day Compilation – Explanation & Q.13) S 2: FULL MOCK 2– Explanation ILP Tests http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/53/sections/52/ 74. If you travel by road from Kohima to Kottayam, what is the minimum number of States within India through which you can travel, including the origin and the destination? (a) 6 (b) 7 (c) 8 (d) 9 75. The Parliament of India exercises control over the functions of the Council of Ministers through Adjournment motion Question hour Supplementary questions Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: PPT - Session 16, slides 16-21(Offline Class) 76. With reference to the Parliament of India, consider the following statements: A private member's bill is a bill presented by a Member of Parliament who is not elected but only nominated by the President of India. Recently, a private member's bill has been passed in the Parliament of India for the first time in its history. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Q.77) Polity 60 day Compilation Q.48) Full Mock 3 (Test Series) Q.18) Polity + CA Question (Test Series ) http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/104/sections/105/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/68/sections/68/ 77. With reference to the difference between the culture of Rigvedic Aryans and Indus Valley people, which of the following statements is/are correct? Rigvedic Aryans used the coat of mail and helmet in warfare whereas the people of Indus Valley Civilization did not leave any evidence of using them. Rigvedic Aryans knew gold, silver and copper whereas Indus Valley people knew only copper and iron. Rigvedic Aryans had domesticated the horse whereas there is no evidence of Indus Valley people having been aware of this animal. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: Q.31) Full Mock 2 (Test Series),Q.7) 60 days-Day 32; Q.11) Set 5 Full Test ILP http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/109/sections/90/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/85/sections/82/ 78. Recognition of Prior Learning Scheme' is sometimes mentioned in the news with reference to (a) Certifying the skills acquired by construction workers through traditional channels. (b) Enrolling the persons in Universities for distance learning programmes. (c) Reserving some skilled jobs to rural and urban poor in some public sector undertakings. (d) Certifying the skills acquired by trainees under the National Skill Development Programme. 79. From the ecological point of view, which one of the followings assumes importance in being a good link between the Eastern Ghats and the Western Ghats? (a) Sathyamangalam Tiger Reserve (b) Nallamala Forest (c) Nagarhole National Park (d) Seshachalam Biosphere Reserve 80. One of the implications of equality in society is the absence of (a) Privileges (b) Restraints (c) Competition (d) Ideology 81. Consider the following statements in respect of Trade Related Analysis of Fauna and Flora in Commerce (TRAFFIC): TRAFFIC is a bureau under United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). The mission of TRAFFIC is to ensure that trade in wild plants and animals is not a threat to the conservation of nature. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Q.37) Environment & CA-Test Series and ILP Value Add-Environment  http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/97/sections/85/ 82. Which principle among the 'following was added to the Directive Principles of Stat Policy by the 42nd Amendment to the Constitution? (a) Equal pay for equal work for both men and women (b) Participation of workers in the management of industries (c) Right to work, education and public assistance (d) Securing living wage and human conditions of work to workers Reference: Q.35) Polity 60 day Compilation & Q.37) Polity + CA Question (Test Series) http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/68/sections/68/ 83. Which one of the following statements is correct? (a) Rights are claims of the State against the citizens. (b) Rights are privileges which are incorporated in the Constitution of a State. (c) Rights are claims of the citizens against the State. (d) Rights are privileges of a few citizens against the many. Reference: Q.25) Polity 60 day Compilation – Explanation & Q.42) S 1: T 1 - POLITY & SCIENCE – Explanation-ILP Tests http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/65/sections/65/ 84. Which of the following gives 'Global Gender lb Gap Index' ranking to the countries of the world? (a) World Economic Forum (b) UN Human Rights Council (c) UN Women (d) World Health Organization Reference: Q.40, Economics Test and Current Affairs-Test Series, Babapedia-26th October, Q.18) SET 3-Test 1-ILP Tests http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/10/26/26th-october-india-up-21-places-in-wef-gender-gap-report/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/54/sections/53/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/99/sections/102/ 85. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Smart India Hackathon 2017? It is a centrally sponsored scheme for developing every city of our country into Smart Cities in a decade. It is an initiative to identify new digital technology innovations for solving the many problems faced by our country. It is a programme aimed at making all the financial transactions in our country completely digital in a decade. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 3 only (b) 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 2 and 3 only Reference: Babapedia-10th November http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/11/10/10th-november-worlds-largest-nation-building-digital-initiative/ 86. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC)? It decides the RBI's benchmark interest rates. It is a 12-member body including the Governor of RBI and is reconstituted every year. It functions under the chairmanship of the Union Finance Minister. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only (c) 3 only (d) 2 and 3 only Reference: Q.3) Economy and Current Affairs-Test Series, Q.78) Ancient and Medieval Full Test (Set 6)-ILP Tests, Babapedia-1st October http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/10/01/1st-october-monetary-policy-committee-constitution-under-the-reserve-bank-of-india-act-1934-notified/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/50/sections/49/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/116/sections/97/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/99/sections/102/ 87. With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements: It is a song and dance performance. Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance. It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (a) 1, 2 and 3. (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1 only Reference: Q.7) of Day 44 and Q.51) of 60 Days Plan compilation http://iasbaba.com/2017/05/iasbabas-60-day-plan-prelims-test-2017-ancient-history-culture-current-affairs-day-44/ http://iasbaba.com/2017/06/prelims-2017-exclusive-history-iasbabas-60-day-plan-subject-wise-compilation/ 88. Who among the following was/were associated with the introduction of Ryotwari Settlement in India during the British rule? Lord Cornwallis Alexander Read Thomas Munro Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: Q.10) Modern History 60 Days-Day 7; Q.6) and Q.73) Modern History Test ILP Set 6 http://iasbaba.com/2017/04/iasbabas-60-day-plan-prelims-test-2017-history-current-affairs-day-7/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/112/sections/93/ 89. In the context of solving pollution problems, what is/are the advantage/advantages of bioremediation technique? It is a technique for cleaning up pollution by enhancing the same biodegradation process that occurs in nature. Any contaminant with heavy metals such as cadmium and lead can be readily and completely treated by bioremediation using microorganisms. Genetic engineering can be used to create microorganisms specifically designed for bioremediation. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Reference: Q.57) Environment and Current Affairs Test, Test Series http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/93/sections/79/ 90. The Trade Disputes Act of 1929 provided for (a) the participation of workers in the management of industries. (b) arbitrary powers to the management to quell industrial disputes. (c) an intervention by the British Court in the event of a trade dispute. (d) a system of tribunals and a ban on strikes. 91. Local self-government can be best explained as an exercise in (a) Federalism (b) Democratic decentralisation (c) Administrative delegation (d) Direct democracy Reference: Q.126) Polity 60 day Compilation – Explanation http://iasbaba.com/2017/06/prelims-2017-exclusive-polity-iasbabas-60-day-plan-subject-wise-compilation/ 92. Consider the following statements: With reference to the Constitution of India, the Directive Principles of State Policy constitute limitations upon legislative function. executive function. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Reference: Q.22) Polity 60 day Compilation – Explanation & Q.62) Polity + CA Question (Test Series ) & Q.35) S 1: T 1 - POLITY & SCIENCE – Explanation (ILP 2017) http://iasbaba.com/2017/06/prelims-2017-exclusive-polity-iasbabas-60-day-plan-subject-wise-compilation/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/68/sections/68/ http://test.iasbaba.com/admin/exams/65/sections/65/ 93. The term 'Digital Single Market Strategy' seen in the news refers to (a) ASEAN (b) BRICS (c) EU (d) G20 94, At one of the places in India, if you stand on the seashore and watch the sea, you will find that the sea water recedes from the shore line a few kilometres and comes back to the shore, twice a day, and you can actually walk on the sea floor when the water recedes. This unique phenomenon is seen at (a) Bhavnagar (b) Bheemunipatnam (c) Chandipur (d) Nagapattinam. Reference: Don't have Tea break, Have a Kitkat :) Btw we are not claiming this question! It is just to show the unpredictability nature and knack of picking questions by UPSC :) Kitkat Khao, Khud Jan Jao :P  95. With reference to the 'Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act, 1988 (PBPT Act)', consider the following statements: A property transaction is not treated as a benami transaction if the owner of the property is not aware of the transaction. Properties held benami are liable for confiscation by the Government. The Act provides for three authorities for investigations but does not provide for any appellate mechanism. Which of the statements .given above is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 2 and 3 only Reference: Babapedia-27th and 28th August and 28th October http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/08/27/27-august-benami-transactions-prohibition-amendment-bill-2015/ http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/08/24/benami-transactions-prohibition-amendment-bill-2015/ http://babapedia.iasbaba.com/2016/10/28/28th-october-benami-act-provisions-to-come-into-force-from-1-november/ 96. Due to some reasons, if there is a huge fall in the population of species of butterflies, what could be its likely consequence/consequences? Pollination of some plants could be adversely affected. There could be a drastic increase in the fungal infections of some cultivated plants. It could lead to a fall in the population of some species of wasps, spiders and birds. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 97. It is possible to proalgae based biofuels, but what is/are the likely limitation(s) of developing countries in promoting this industry? Production of algae based biofuels is possible in seas only and not on continents. Setting up and engineering the algae based biofuel production requires high level of expertise/technology until the construction is completed. Economically viable production necessitates the setting up of large scale facilities which may raise ecological and social concerns. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 98. Which of the following are the objectives of 'National Nutrition Mission'? To create awareness relating to malnutrition among pregnant women and lactating mothers. To reduce the incidence of anaemia among young children, adolescent girls and women. To promote the consumption of millets, coarse cereals and unpolished rice. To promote the consumption of poultry eggs. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1, 2 and 3 only (c) 1, 2 and 4 only (d) 3 and 4 only        99. Consider the following statements: The Factories Act, 1881 was passed with a view to fix the wages of industrial workers and to allow the workers to form trade unions. N.M. Lokhande was a pioneer in organizing the labour movement in British India. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 100. In the context of mitigating the impending global warming due to anthropogenic emissions of carbon dioxide, which of the following can be the potential sites for carbon sequestration? Abandoned and uneconomic coal seams Depleted oil and gas reservoirs Subterranean deep saline formations Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs 20th June, 2017

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 20th June 2017 Archives NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Creation of Gorkhaland: A long-standing demand In news: West Bengal’s Darjeeling district has been on the boil over a separate state demand and witnessed widespread clashes between Gorkha Janmukti Morcha activists and the police. The tourism sector has been hit hard. Background: Sikkim gifted Darjeeling to the East India Company in 1835. Historically, until 1905, when the then Viceroy of India, Lord Curzon, effected the partition of Bengal, Darjeeling was a part of the Rajshahi division, now in Bangladesh. From 1905 to 1912 Darjeeling formed a part of the Bhagalpur division now in Bihar. It was given back to Rajshahi in 1912 and remained with the Rajshahi division till Partition. The Gorkhaland region, comprising the districts of Darjeeling and Jalpaiguri, is home to a large number of Nepali speakers, who resent being part of a state dominated by Bengali speakers. It remains among the earliest demands for statehood in India. Recognised as an official language of Bengal in 1961, Nepali is the official language in the hills of West Bengal. In 1992, Nepali was recognised as one of the official languages of India. Why the Nepali people agitate? Although the Nepali-speaking segment makes up just 1.2 per cent of Bengal’s population, Darjeeling evokes more interest in Nepal than any other Indian region where Nepali-speaking persons are settled. The idea of a “Greater Nepal” still motivates a section of Nepal activists who want Darjeeling restored. The tactful and rigid segregation of workers from the British era to the line of ethnicity in the hills, where the Nepalese were brought in and the plains, where the Chottanagpur migrants worked, rendered one community hostile against the other. The few Bengalis present in the hills were and have always been the babus, working for the British and then the State. The marwaris have controlled most of the wealth, further isolating the Nepali population. The Nepalese find themselves reduced to second class citizens, at the hands of these otherwise miniscule inhabitants. The movement led by the Gorkha National Liberation Front, projected the CPM-led government in Bengal as anti-Nepali. The demand for Gorkhaland has always found its support among the tea plantation workers. Kipat (ownership of land by a community) and Maato (mud) remain central to the movement. What sparked the renewed protest? Gorkhaland demand has been there for more than 75-80 years. Between 1907 and 1987, demands for a separate Darjeeling were raised on “at least on 15 occasions. Ongoing for over decades, language is at the heart of the Gorkhaland crisis. Supporters of Gorkhaland want a separate Nepalese-speaking region. However, the approximate cause of unrest is: The present crisis in Darjeeling was sparked by fears of Bengali being imposed in schools in the GJM-administered areas where a majority of the people are Nepali-speaking Gorkhas. The GJM and other separatist political forces saw this as a ploy to undermine the GTA’s authority. Gorkha Janmukti Morcha-led by Bimal Gurung intensified its demands for a separate state of Gorkhaland calling an indefinite bandh in the region. GJM is a political party which campaigns for the creation of a separate state Gorkhaland within India, out of districts in the north of West Bengal While the protests started with the suspicion that Bengali would be made mandatory in the hills. Later it spiralled into a broad-based ‘indefinite’ agitation with the GJM targeting symbols of the state and ordering closure of all government offices. Tripartite agreement, 2011: Long back, the Gorkhaland movement was called off following a tripartite agreement that led to creation of an autonomous hill council. In 2011, after the Trinamool Congress came to power in the State, the GJM, the State government and the Centre signed a tripartite agreement for the establishment of the GTA, a regional autonomous body aimed at giving significant administrative control over the region to the elected party in the hills. Way forward: The State government must reach out to the GJM and work out a way to transfer powers to the GTA as was promised in 2011. A signal in this direction will go a long way in tamping down the violent agitation. It should also abandon its wishful thinking that short cuts can solve the intractable Gorkhaland issue, which is culturally rooted. Take steps to empower the Gorkhaland Territorial Administration. In the years since the establishment of GTA, little has been done on the ground to transfer many of the subjects to the body as was promised, rendering the notion of autonomous rule in the Hills rather moot. Legitimate grievances with the West Bengal government on transfer of powers to the GTA aside, the GJM, which has ruled the Authority, too has been guilty of lackadaisical administration. Thus GTA needs to strengthen its administration. Language has been a fraught issue in the Darjeeling hills for more than a century. Identity politics aside, there is something utilitarian about learning a language. Learning the language, formally, will only help expand the economic avenues of Nepali-speaking people in the Darjeeling hills in West Bengal. A dialogue must be initiated with those demanding a separate Gorkhaland state and the issue thoroughly examined, and that it should not be kept lingering for long. Conclusion: The demand for carving out a separate state, Gorkhaland, from West Bengal is a decades old demand. The issue needs to be handled diplomatically. The cultural divide based on ethnicity and language must be bridged and this can be done only through discussion and engagement rather than violence. The GJM and the state government with the Centre as mediator must come together to bring this issue to a peaceful end. Connecting the dots: Recently separate statehood movement got renewed and intensified in Darjeeling district of West Bengal. Critically analyze the reasons behind the demand and also discuss if creation of another state would help bring stability in the region. NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability Transforming India into a knowledge-based economy Introduction: Knowledge-based economies use ICT, innovation and research, higher education and specialised skills to create, disseminate and apply knowledge for growth. Transformational idea emanates from knowledge institutions. This can then be put to practical use by a for-profit company. Advanced Asian economies such as Japan, Korea, Singapore, Taipei and China have successfully shifted from agriculture to manufacturing to knowledge-based industries. China and India, have built pockets of knowledge-based growth, but have not yet translated this into a broader economic model. Countries such as Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Lao have yet to really embark upon knowledge-based growth. Importance of creating a knowledge-based economy: A shift to innovation-based growth would help countries avoid the middle-income trap and also address rising income inequalities. The advantage of availability of cheap labour from which countries like India and China and others in the region derive the strength that adds so much value to their economies is likely to disappear in the near future. Some examples form across the world shows how knowledge based economies are already transforming economies and can have an effect on job creation and affect industries in India. Examples: Nike has been experimenting with the use of 3D printers to manufacture shoes. These areas of high-end technology have a rapid rate of convergence. It is well nigh possible that our shoe manufacturing industry could be hard-hit in no time. Google is still very much smaller than the Indian IT company in terms of employees, but it earns much more in one quarter than what the Indian IT company earns in a whole year. This is simply because Google is based on a knowledge idea that has connections to Stanford. The Indian IT company, alas, is dependent on brawn as opposed to brains. A former professor of robotics at the Georgia Institute of Technology has helped create a robotic tailor that can stitch a perfect circle. The only seemingly viable option for the garments industry in the Asian region is to seek to import such machines. There goes a part of our plan to keep unemployment figures down. This indicates troubling future of the garments industry. Indian context: As per the Mimansa school of Indian philosophy, Knowledge without action is meaningless. India has accrued enormous for centuries based on our knowledge systems: C.V. Raman was in the office of the accountant general while making his discovery. In ancient India, much before Christ and the Greeks, some outstanding mathematics was discovered and driven by societal needs. Knowledge systems in India invented cataract surgery and plastic surgery much before Christ. The invention and use of the rapalgai — a rope-based device also called kamal enabled our merchant ships to calculate positions at sea at a time when Europe was clueless. Way ahead: India has the potential to become a leading knowledge-based economy with its youth population and growing information technology. Policy — if at all — must simply be more in the realm of enlightened inducement that encourages and engenders good practices. It must nurture and encourage initiative and out-of-the-box thinking and should be, to an extent, ready to accommodate risk taking and have room for failure. Institutions have to move out of traditional modes of thinking and must recognise that knowledge can exist in all realms, not just in formal systems around academia. The need to develop and nurture educational institutions in a manner that ensures their linkages to the needs and challenges of the nation — including its economic needs. This requires inducing young minds to grapple with the challenges of the nation and society. Steps such as supportive laws, improved infrastructure, removal of barriers to trade and investment, up-skilling of labour force, higher spending in R&D and innovative financing for small businesses must be taken urgently. Regulatory, education, and infrastructure barriers must be overcome. What is required is a strong, coordinated government policies coupled with investment in ICT including universal, affordable and high-speed broadband connectivity, better education notably tertiary and skills-focused training, and a culture of research and innovation with strong intellectual property rights. Flexible capital and labor markets are also crucial. Conclusion: The shift to knowledge-based growth is critical since India’s comparative advantages in labor and capital-intensive manufacturing are fading. New technologies like robotics, and increasing stress on resources like energy and water, are emerging as threats to Asia’s competitive edge. A shift to innovation-based growth would help India avoid the middle-income trap and also address rising income inequalities. Connecting the dots: India needs to transform itself into a knowledge-based economy. Discuss the yrgency, India's potential as well as the challenges in bringing such a transformation MUST READ Legislation and legality Hindu An unpredictable voyage Hindu Lessons for investigative journalism Hindu State of disorder Indian Express A dark satire Indian Express India US and an east-of-suez moment Indian Express Education hits every boundary Indian Express Moving forward on defence and security Livemint Demonetisation effect on income equality Livemint Lets get real about renewables Business Line

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs 19th June, 2017

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 19th June 2017 Archives HEALTH/NATIONAL TOPIC:  General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health New Rules on Antibiotic Resistance by WHO Introduction: In an effort to curb antibiotic resistance, the World Health Organization (WHO) has divided the drugs into three categories — access, watch and reserve — specifying which are to be used for common ailments and which are to be kept for complicated diseases. The division of the antibiotic is as follows: Access: For commonly used antibiotics. Antibiotics in this group will be available at all times as treatment for a wide range of common infections. This includes amoxicillin, a widely-used antibiotic to treat infections such as pneumonia. Watch: For second line drugs, slightly more potent. It covers antibiotics that are recommended as first or second choice treatment for a small number of infections. The WHO has recommended that prescription of these drugs should be dramatically reduced to avoid further development of resistance. Reserve: For crucial stage, potent drugs to be used only as a “last resort” . The third group, ‘reserve’, includes antibiotics such as colistin and some cephalosporins that should be considered last-resort options, and used only in the most severe circumstances when all other alternatives have failed, such as for life-threatening infections due to multidrug-resistant bacteria.  This is the biggest revision of the antibiotics section in the 40-year history of the essential medicines list (EML). What is antibiotic resistance? Antibiotic resistance is the ability of bacteria to resist the effects of an antibiotic. It occurs when bacteria change in a way that reduces the effectiveness of drugs, chemicals, or other agents designed to cure or prevent infections. Antibiotic resistance occurs naturally, but misuse of antibiotics in humans and animals is accelerating the process. Issues related to antibiotic resistance: Antibiotic resistance leads to higher medical costs, prolonged hospital stays, and increased mortality. It is one of the biggest threats to global health, food security, and development today. It can affect anyone, of any age, in any country. A growing number of infections – such as pneumonia, tuberculosis, and gonorrhoea – are becoming harder to treat as the antibiotics used to treat them become less effective. Antibiotics can be bought for human or animal use without a prescription, the emergence and spread of resistance is made worse. Similarly, in countries without standard treatment guidelines, antibiotics are often over-prescribed by health workers and veterinarians and over-used by the public. The recent study of The Indian Council of Medical Research found out that the resistance to antibiotics was found in 50% of patients. As per the statistics of Centers for Disease Control at least 23,000 people in the United States die each year due to infections that are resistant to antibiotic treatments. Significance of the initiative Prior to everything, the best way to educate the public about medicine is to properly educate physicians first. It will also ensure that they get the right antibiotic which will eventually solve the problem of resistance. With strict filter of the antibiotics, under which some medicines are reserved for the most resistant microbes, the WHO list can stop their misuse as broad-spectrum treatments. With access to speedy and accurate diagnosis, this new beginning can sensitize the medical community to its responsibility to prevent antimicrobial resistance It will also take enlightened policies on housing, sanitation and hygiene education to prevent new infections and the spread of disease-causing organisms. It will take good public health policies, sufficient funding and determined leadership to overcome antibiotic resistance. The new categorization will further guide countries in ensuring access to appropriate antibacterial agents and support antimicrobial stewardship effort. The new WHO list should help health system planners and prescribers ensure that people who need antibiotics have access to them, and ensure they get the right one, so that the problem of resistance doesn’t get worse Conclusion: The new guidelines by WHO will surely help in fighting the spread of antibiotic resistance. Health system planners and prescribers must ensure the rules are followed in true spirit. Connecting the dots: The issue of antibiotic resistance is becoming more and more challenging. However, the recent guidelines by WHO on antibiotic resistance may help solve the problem. Discuss. MUST READ New playground for non-state actors Hindu A quantum step to a great wall for encryption Hindu Sting journalism is not investigative journalism Hindu Reassure neighbors Indian Express Firm resolve Indian Express From plate to plough: Why bumper harvests spell doom? Indian Express Government limitations in job creation Livemint Countering extremism in Bangladesh Livemint The importance of ease of doing business Livemint Modi goes to Washington again Livemint Delayed impact Business Line A fundamental distortion in farm policy Business Line The elephant in the room Business Line  

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs 17th June, 2017

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 17th June 2017 Archives ECONOMY TOPIC:  General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Government Budgeting. Need of Parliamentary Budget Office Significance of budget: The budget is an extremely important political expression affecting every citizen. Budgets can be seen as contracts between citizens and the state. The budget, as a socio-economic and political document, primarily involves a legitimate process of raising revenue and (an equitable) distribution of public resources amongst various sectors. The budget is the clearest expression of the direction of a government’s priorities and targets, reflecting its fiscal plans, and social and financial commitments. The budget is also a primary instrument through which the elected representatives can exercise influence on economic and social development policies of the country. Importance of legislative participation in the budget process: Effective legislative participation in the budget process establishes checks and balances that are crucial for transparent and accountable governance, and for ensuring efficient delivery of public services. Ineffective parliamentary control over budget process: Parliament is considered to be “the guardian of the public purse” and must play a greater role in budgetary governance. As a budget approving body, it oversees the following: presentation of the budget; scrutiny of the budget proposal and demands for grants of various ministries; debate; and consideration and approval of the budget. To carry out such functions effectively, the Parliament requires institutional, analytical and technical competence. However, the budget research capacity is negligible in Parliament: The quality and comprehensiveness of the budget scrutiny process, through the debate and the standing committees, is weak. Due to the lack of analytical knowledge support, members of Parliament (MPs) are unable to properly scrutinise the demands for grants in the respective standing committees. On occasion, MPs seek to reach out to external experts for credible analysis and inputs. Such practices help in adding depth to the committees’ work and their reports. While this results in better assessment of demands, it is an ad hoc way of bridging the gap in knowledge and analysis. Consequently, Parliament appears unable to perform the aforementioned functions effectively, often resulting in the executive acting in accordance with its own preferences. Parliament’s failure to exert meaningful influence often results in arbitrary taxation policy, burgeoning fiscal deficit, and an inequitable allocation of public resources among various sectors. The above example suggests that, in India, the effectiveness of parliamentary oversight in public finance is an unsettled concern. Establishing a Parliamentary Budget Office(PBO) is a fitting response to this concern. What is PBO? A PBO is an independent and impartial body linked directly to the Parliament. It provides high-quality technical, objective and non-partisan analysis of budgets and public finance to the Parliament and its committees. Need of PBO: An institutional mechanism, such as a parliamentary budget office (PBO), is necessary to provide continuous assistance to MPs and their committees. An adequate and inclusive role of Parliament or the state legislatures in public finance management is not sufficiently dealt with in the political economy literature in India. There is a visible deficit, a “knowledge gap,” between Parliament and its members in India. Parliamentarians do not have access to detailed evidence that may allow them to pass judgment on budgetary decisions. A body that is independent of the executive is necessary in order to provide “independent costings, fiscal analysis and research to all MPs, especially non-government members.” Many ordinary laws have been piggybacked as money bills and included within the Finance Act, 2017, while the Parliament remained entirely oblivious. The establishment of a PBO would eliminate such malpractice as MPs would have been alerted and appropriate action would follow. A PBO is an instrument for addressing bias towards spending and deficits and, more significantly, for enhancing fiscal discipline and promoting accountability. Further, it can generate quality public debate on budget policy and public finance, enabling parliamentarians to engage more meaningfully in the budget process. A PBO could provide the essential substantive information and knowledge support services for parliamentarians and committees. Such timely, accurate, objective, responsive, and non-partisan information is vital for the productive working of the parliament and its members. An independent, non-partisan, transparent body can bridge the gap between executive decision-making and parliamentarian involvement. Examples form across the world: PBOs are being established across both presidential and parliamentary systems. Traditionally, independent budgetary units are more common in developed countries, but many developing countries are now establishing such entities, for example, Benin, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Morocco, the Philippines, Uganda, Nigeria, Liberia, Thailand, Afghanistan, and Vietnam. The other functioning PBOs are in countries such as the United States (US), Canada, Australia, Austria, South Korea, Italy, Mexico, etc. Core Functions of PBOs: Most PBOs have four core functions: Independent and objective economic forecasts; Baseline estimate survey; Analyzing the executive’s budget proposal; and Providing medium- to long-term analysis. Conclusions: The goal of the PBO is to render budgets more transparent and accountable. PBOs can help parliamentarians understand the complex nature of the budgeting process and provide the parliament and its committees with the capacity to contribute to the budget process. Parliamentary scrutiny of public finance is a very important aspect for holding the government(s) accountable to the people. However, the Parliament as well as the state legislatures are institutionally fragile and ineffective in fulfilling their oversight and scrutiny functions. There is a legitimate democratic need in this country to strengthen the capacity of Parliament and its members. A PBO can ensure that parliamentarians remain informed well enough to perform their budgetary and oversight responsibilities effectively. Establishing a PBO in Parliament will have a positive impact on its ability to carry out budgetary oversight and fiscal decision-making. Connecting the dots: Parliamentarians carry out an important function of budgetary oversight. However the parliamentary control over budget process has remained ineefective. Discuss why is it important to have Parliamentary budget office(PBO) so as to increase the effectiveness of parliamentary insight. NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure. Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.  General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Worsening state finances In news: The viral of farm loan waivers is acquiring epidemic proportions. Unfortunately, broader structural changes in agriculture have eluded coherent implementation. The loan waivers of February 1990 by the National Front government led to sharp fiscal deterioration and the subsequent balance of payments crisis. Subsequent loan waivers had similar results. State governments are entitled to take such decisions but manage their financial consequences. Farm loan waivers are a subset of the broader issue of sustainable State finances. We need to address several issues. Fiscal consolidation State expenditure higher than that of centre: Following the 14th Finance Commission recommendations, the total State expenditure (as a percentage of GSDP) is higher than even the Centre’s. State finances have increasingly become a crucial lynchpin of India’s fiscal framework. Many State governments have adopted State-level fiscal laws and adhered to the 3% fiscal target under the State-level FRBMs (Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act). However as per a report of the Reserve Bank, State Finances: A Study of Budgets 2016-17, the combined deficit of the States reached 3.6% of GDP in FY16, significantly higher than 2.6% in the previous year. This significantly breaches the 3% fiscal deficit stipulated by the States themselves in their FRBMs. The fiscal consolidation of the Centre is more than offset by expansion of the States. This is partly explained by the State power distribution companies (DISCOM) debt, 75% of which will be explicitly accounted in States’ balance sheets, and treated as capital spending in fiscal accounts. The quality of compliance by States has also deteriorated. These go beyond UDAY (Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana) to include irregularities in food credit accounts of State governments with commercial banks, off-balance sheet expenditures, and creative accounting engineering to evade stipulated targets. Unsustainable debt-to-GDP ratio for States: Debt is considered sustainable if debt-GDP ratio is stable or on a declining path. This is a necessary condition for solvency of any government’s finances. While debt ratios for the Central government are projected to decline, the debt ratio for the States under status quo and present FRBM scenarios is projected to increase. This is mainly because the primary deficit (total deficit excluding the interest payments), a driving variable in debt dynamics, is much higher for the States compared to the Centre. The Centre’s primary deficit according to the RBI report is 0.7% of GDP while that of the States is close to 2% of GDP. Nonetheless, if this picture persists, State debts will increase from close to 20% of GDP to 35% of GDP over the next 10 years. A significant consolidation by the States would be needed to keep the debt ratio stable for the States. Challenges arising due to worsening state finances: Given the increased foreign holdings of Indian government bonds, a worsening of State finances will dent India’s credibility among foreign institutional investors (FIIs). The rise in government bond yield of State government securities would increase the interest burden on new debt and also for the old debt which are re-priced. Such a scenario could make State debt more explosive. Borrowings by States are likely to increase sharply due to interest of UDAY bonds, and more importantly, the viral of farm loans waivers. With little compensatory action, this will seriously undercut the hard-won battle to secure fiscal prudence for the country as a whole. Although composite State finances are useful to analyse, there are marked variations across States. States like Tamil Nadu, Gujarat, and Maharashtra have significantly lower fiscal deficit, with more intensive tax efforts, than States like Uttar Pradesh and Jharkhand, which collect lower tax and are fiscally less prudent. What can be done? Following steps can be taken: First, we must improve the due diligence by the Central government in giving consent to borrowings by States under Article 293 of the Constitution. Unfortunately, there is some lack of coordination within the Ministry of Finance itself. Approvals for State government borrowings are accorded by the State Plan Division with little coordination with the Budget Division, which monitors implementation of FRBM obligations. A more stringent criteria in approving borrowings for States which deviate from stipulated fiscal norms is urgently needed. The criteria must be transparent and apolitical in character. Second, whenever the Central government breaches the fiscal norms, it secures parliamentary approval. State governments must be encouraged to adopt a similar practice by securing the approval of the State Legislature. Third, regulatory measures can be devised to enable bond yields to be responsive to market signals and bridge the information asymmetry between markets and State finances of the concerned State governments. Finally the 15th Finance Commission must address the broader issue of adherence by States to fiscal obligations. It must restore adherence to fiscal norms as an important ingredient in the devolution formula. This also implies inter se distributional burden among the States themselves. Conclusion: Investors recognize and reward macro stability. Fiscal prudence exercised by the Central government has been widely acclaimed. The management of State finances must not undercut this important achievement which is central to investor confidence and enhanced credit rating. Unchecked profligacy by States can undermine the overall macro stability and thus must be checked. Connecting the dots: Present situation of state finances shows a worrying picture. With demands of farm loan waiver the fiscal situation is likely to become more unsustainable. Discuss the need of maintaining fiscal discipline by states. Also mention the steps to be taken to do the same. MUST READ How genetics is settling the Aryan migration debate Hindu Access to excellence Hindu Book of jobs Hindu Infiltration best countered Indian Express Maximum force Indian Express Being Hindi-medium Indian Express Where is the jugaad? Business Line Why the fed rate hike didn’t create a ripple Business Line  

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs 16th June, 2017

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 16th June 2017 Archives ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Global economic slowdown: Where does India stands? The global economy has been recovering from the recession of 2009 at a tepid rate (at approximately 2.5 per cent per annum). India's economy is in a 'fairly good shape' and it is likely to be less affected than other emerging economies if there is a further shock to the global economy, according to a senior official of the IMF. Main causes of the current slow global growth are: Declining populations- Population growth boosts economic growth through an increase in the workforce, aided by an increase in productivity. Protectionism- it will hurt global trade and cross-border flow of people. No major productivity-enhancing revolution. The fourth industrial revolution is yet to take place. China’s economy is expected to steadily slow down to 6.6% in 2017 and 6.2% in 2018 due to the “complex process of rebalancing” by reorienting demand from exports and investment in consumption. While for a majority of countries, a high or higher growth rate would be elusive, India has a great opportunity before it. India seems to be less vulnerable With growing political uncertainty in the US, the emergence of protectionist policies and amidst slowdown concerns related to China, countries whose GDP is dependent on exports could find themselves with increased instability. The most affected are those with exports accounting for a high percentage of their GDP and with low domestic demand support. India appears to be less vulnerable on this front. Despite the US’s importance as a market for India and Japan, the larger and more diverse nature of these economies provides them with some cushioning from protectionist trade policies, with shipments to the US making up only 2 per cent and 3 per cent of their respective GDPs. Furthermore, an ADB report suggests that a growth slowdown of 1.6 percentage points in China would bring about a growth deceleration of 0.26 percentage points in developing Asia as a whole. Meanwhile, India is most insulated from China’s slowdown: Its annual GDP growth could be lower by a slight 0.14 percentage points. With roughly 59 per cent share in India’s GDP, household consumption spending has been the major driver of economic growth and has, on many occasions, acted as a protective shield to global demand shocks. India also has low reliance on external savings to fund its growth. As per S&P Ratings, the banks are mainly deposit-funded and don’t rely on wholesale funding to grow their loan books. Healthy consumption spending in India and an inward domestically demand-oriented economy makes India less vulnerable. The Indian context: India is in the middle of a demographic dividend which would be an impetus to growth, if the new entrants to the work force are productively employed. The government has recognised the need for jobs and embarked on a multi-pronged strategy including corporate governance reform, pro-growth tax reform, agricultural reform, administration reform, the expansion of public-private partnerships etc. Increasing jobs through targeted manufacturing/service investment — tourism, health, education, micro and small enterprises, agribusiness — Massive drives like Make in India, Skill India, productivity-based infrastructure development and initiatives related to the ease of doing business will surely help. The rationalisation of subsidies and direct cash transfers will plug leakages associated with the previous subsidy regime and make money available for merit subsidies — health, education, etc. — that can help us exploit our population dividend. These strategies have begun to make a difference and should, over a reasonable period of time, create the jobs we need. We are now poised to leapfrog directly into the digital world and reap the productivity gains. Challenges: The global financial crisis largely passed India by; so, our need for quantitative easing was limited. But we have created our own crisis — non-performing assets (NPA). However, the government is working to resolve the issue. It is worth mentioning that the banking system has a provisioning coverage of 50 per cent plus on NPAs. The priorities should be: Improving ease of doing business Infrastructure improvement Fiscal reforms — such as GST Agriculture reforms Administrative reforms Labor reforms Conclusion: The winners in this changing world are likely to be countries less reliant on global trade, domestic consumption-driven, with an increasing population, a scope for productivity improvement and a low per capita base. It would be fair to conclude that India’s GDP growth rate of 7.5 per cent is good and sustainable, so also is the potential target of 8 per cent plus. We are moving towards increasing manufacturing’s share in furthering jobs. This, combined with the increase in consumption through workforce increase, should impact both consumption and investment, leading to the delta required to take our GDP past 8 per cent. Driven by domestic consumption, the Indian economy is poised to do better than most others. The present situation calls for accelerated economic reforms for India to achieve a higher growth trajectory. Connecting the dots: Discuss reasons behind global economic slowdown. Also mention how India seems to be less vulnerable if the ongoing reforms are implemented in true sense. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. India's US policy in the age of Trump At the end of this month, Prime Minister Narendra Modi will head to the US to meet President Donald Trump. It might just end up being the defining visit of Modi’s US policy in the age of Trump. Trump's policy towards India: During a campaign for a US presidential candidate, Trump termed India as a “key strategic ally” and promised that if voted to power, India and the US would become “best friends”. His hard-line position on Pakistan and Islamist extremism also endeared him to a section of Indians. But since he became President, Trump has given mixed signals about his priorities, confusing many in India. Though his aides have often delivered tough messages to Pakistan about terror, his approach has been erratic at best. The US ambassador to the UN, Nikki Haley, went so far as to say that the US may play a proactive role in de-escalating tensions between Islamabad and New Delhi. Trump withdrew from the Paris agreement. Targeting India specifically, Trump argued that “India makes its participation contingent on receiving billions of dollars in foreign aid” and that it will be allowed to double its coal production by 2020. Economic and trade ties have also been under stress, with Trump asking federal agencies to review the temporary visa programme for high-skilled foreigners to ensure preference was accorded to the “most-skilled and highest-paid”. Trump has been critical of H-1B visas, suggesting that they were being used by outsourcing firms to bring in low-skilled workers on low wages who displace Americans. His larger approach towards economic globalization has produced a paradoxical situation wherein China is trying, with some success, to project itself as a defender of the extant global order. Trump's China policy: It is Trump’s China policy which will have the most significant long-term impact on India and regional geopolitics. After angering China by questioning Beijing’s sovereignty over Taiwan under the One China principle, Trump went back on it and endorsed it. He later expressed his “absolute confidence that (Xi) will be trying very, very hard” to resolve the North Korea issue. Despite this, North Korean behaviour remains provocative. Frustration with China is growing in Washington. There is growing concern that as Trump turns America inwards, he is ceding the strategic space to China. Future of India-US relations: Overall, there remains a lot of confusion about the future trajectory of India-US relations under Trump. Bilateral relations have soared after Modi made significant personal investment in boosting ties. But now he faces the challenge of building a rapport with an administration which seems intent on retreating to the margins of global politics and of pursuing a transactional agenda. The strategic logic that largely drove George W. Bush and Barack Obama’s overtures to India—that India’s rise is in America’s larger interest—can no longer be the basis of India-US engagement under Trump. Conclusion: There are indeed challenges here as New Delhi has become used to the broader strategic logic and has traditionally been averse to transactional relationships. But there are new opportunities, if only Indian policy makers remain open to new possibilities. Connecting the dots: Discuss the challenges India-US relationship face under Trump's era. Also mention how Indian policy makers should overcome the challenges posed by changing dynamics when it comes to US. MUST READ The anniversary of a divide Hindu No time to work Hindu Reform, despite nay-sayers Indian Express New president for new India Indian Express Narendra Modi's challenge in Washington Livemint The moral responsibility of celebrity endorsers Livemint Finally a goods and services tax- But what lies ahead? Livemint The right to price Business Line Is this Modi's India shining moment Business Line

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The Big Picture - PM Modi's Kashmir Strategy Implications & Expectations

PM Modi's Kashmir Strategy Implications & Expectations Archives TOPIC: General Studies 3 Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism. Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security. General Studies 2 India and its neighbourhood- relations. In news: A video, showing a man tied to an army vehicle as a shield against the stone pelters during polling in the Srinagar Lok Sabha by-election on April 9, triggered a public outcry. It was Major Leetul Gogoi who ordered the man, said to be a stone thrower, to be tied to the Rakshak vehicle to ensure a safe passage for the convoy he was leading. Later Major Gogoi was honoured with a Chief of Army Staff (COAS) commendation card. The killing of Burhan Wani, a ‘commander’ of the Hizbul Mujahideen, by security forces in July last year set off a new cycle of violence in Kashmir that does not seem to have ended to this day as stone-pelting is met with pellet guns. Change in strategy: Events indicate that the government is changing its strategy in Kashmir and conveying the message that it mean business. The events indicating this change in recent times include: The army recommencing cordon and search operations, announcing aggressive counter infiltration actions including destruction of Pakistani posts to the press and awarding Major Gogoi on the Jeep tying incident. Several opposition parties have said that India is losing Kashmir with the present prevailing strategy. Background: In 2015 March India's ruling BJP party sworn into government in Indian-administered Kashmir for first time in coalition with local People's Democratic Party, with the latter's Mufti Mohammad Sayeed as chief minister. In 2016 July the killing of popular militant Burhan Wani, a popular militant and top commander of the Hizbul Mujahideen group, sparked violent protests. After Uri attacks in September 2016 in which 18 Indian soldiers were killed India claimed that it carried out "surgical strikes" against suspected militants along the de-facto border with Pakistan in Kashmir but Pakistan rejected the claims. Transactional policies rather than a strategy: It seems as if we don't have a strategy on Kashmir, it's all transactional policies. An event takes place the security forces are brought in. This has marked Kashmir policy for years. The only exceptional change was during Atal Bihari Vajpayee's government. He had a clear cut strategy to take things forward, the back channels almost produced a solution then. Issue: The government has put a condition that it would not engage any organisation for any kind of dialogue if they do not believe in Indian constitution. On the other hand the separatist forces like Hurriyat is in no mood of holding talks within the framework of our constitution. The main issue is that the separatist do not want to talk within the framework of the Constitution and the present government remains adamant on its conditional dialogue. The Kashmir problem: Political Problem: On one hand, India wants to integrate Jammu and Kashmir as a normal state of the Indian Union. On the other hand, the Kashmiris stand is that an exceptional status under article 370 of Indian constitution has been provided to Kashmir and it didn't happen as a one-off discussion, two years of negotiations took place between the Jammu and Kashmir leader Sheikh Abdullah and the central government on what the terms of agreement should be. Kashmir has become a pressure cooker there no safety valves. Safety valves in a democracy are elections, dialogue, peaceful protests. Much before stone pelting peaceful protests were banned, people like Yasin Malik for peaceful protests. Sense of alienation/discrimination: The voice of the youth has become the primary form of protest. While it was a gun in the 1990s from 2008 it is the stone pelting. The Sinha delegation report states that Kashmiris say India has failed them, that a sense of discrimination pervades the Kashmiri minds, that there is a history of broken commitments, that ‘India hasn’t done enough to keep Kashmiris with it’, that ‘there is a sense of betrayal against India’. (Sinha delegation- A five-member team created by present government for Track-II diplomacy) After Burhan Wani incident the whole valley south Kashmir rose as one. This shows the deep turmoil and anger in the valley especially amongst the youth. The longer the political process is delayed the angst, especially amongst the youth, will increase. The alienation will enhance hugely and we have a problem also of radicalization. The Pakistan factor: Any disturbance in valley becomes an ideal situation for Pakistan to fish in trouble water What needs to be done? Maintaining robust security: Improve information gathering Winning Hearts and Minds(WHAM): Follow a humane approach to Kashmiri people A congenial atmosphere needs to be created but not by using brute force Activities like the honoring Major Gogoi should be strictly avoided keeping in mind the sensitivity of the Kashmiris. Innovative techniques such as tying a young man to the front of the Jeep gives us a bad name. So instead of winning hearts and minds of people we will end up making people have contempt for the army and mainland India. The Kashmiri youth must be brought into the mainstream. Political process: Ours is accommodative democracy. We'll have to listen to the dissenting voices as well. Thus, unconditional political peace process must be initiated as soon as possible The central government should handle the issue with great aptitude The agenda of Alliance which the PDP and BJP signed before they came into power which said they would have talks with everybody should be looked into. Conclusion: It's not as if unconditional talks have not been held in the past. Naga talks were unconditional and we will have years of ceasefire and will be working towards the solution which will be within the Constitution of India. Thus while we did not begin with the Constitution, we end with the Constitution. Something similar can be done for kashmir also. Mutli-dimensional talks and discussion rather than brute force is required to win the hearts of Kashmiris. The Kashmir problem is much more than the territorial issue. The sense of discrimination prevailing among youths in Kashmir and the increasing radicalization can be a threat to the country's security and stability in future. Connecting the dots: Discuss government's strategy towards handling the Kashmir issue. Elaborate how winning hearts and mins(WHAM) strategy rather than brute force is required to solve the Kashmir problem.

PIB

IASbaba Press Information Bureau (PIB)- 7th May to 13th May , 2017

IASbaba Press Information Bureau (PIB) – 7th May to 13th May 2017 ARCHIVES GS-1 Centenary Celebrations of Bharat Sevashram Sangha (Topic: Art and Culture) About: Bharat Sevashram Sangha is a Hindu charitable non-governmental organisation in India, headquarters at Kolkata. It was founded in 1917 by Acharya Srimat Swami Pranavanandaji Maharaj. The Sangha has hundreds of ashrams in India and other countries including the United Kingdom, United States, Guyana, Canada, Fiji and Bangladesh. Work The Sangha has responded to natural calamities in Andhra Pradesh and Orissa states, the Bengal famine of 1943, the Bhopal disaster, the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, and the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. At times of political unrest such as the Partition of India, the Sangha has set up refugee camps and war evacuee camps in the border areas. Celebrating Buddha Purnima (Topic: Art and Culture) About: The Buddha Jayanti falls on the Vaisakha Purnima, that is, on the full moon day of the month of Vaisakha according to the Indian lunar calendar. This is the most important occasion for Buddhists celebrating the Gautama Buddha’s birth, enlightenment and Mahaparinirvana on the same day. In the first meeting of “World Fellowship of Buddhist” held at Colombo, Sri Lanka in May 1950, it was decided to commemorate Vaisakha Purnima as the Buddha’s thrice blessed day. Buddha Purnima is also celebrated as Waisak Day or Vesak Day. A brief look India is the origin of many world religions including the Buddhism. Buddha’s entire events of like took place in India. The advent of the Buddha Sakyamuni in 6th century BCE brought a radical reformation in the culture of philosophy and spirituality in the India. His teaching of Karuna, compassion, and Maitri, loving kindness, give an equal perspective towards all sentient beings including human beings within which no classes are allowed. With the philosophy of dependent origination and practice of non-violence rooted in love and compassion, Buddhism made immense contribution to the culture of peace. To promote Buddhism, GoI organized the 2500th anniversary of Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana as international mega event in 1956. Nava Nalanda Mahavihara was established in 1951 in Nalanda, Bihar to revive the ancient seat of learning in Nalanda. In 1959, Central Institute of Buddhist Studies was established in Leh, Laddhak. In 1968, Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies was established for the promotion of Buddhist and Tibetan studies. Central Institute of Himalayan Culture Studies, Dahung, Arunachal Pradesh was established in 2003. In 2010 Nalanda University was established at Rajgir to recreate the Ancient centre of Wisdom. India has enshrined the dharma wheel of Buddhism on the national flag. Celebrations around the world Home to 255 million Buddhists — the world’s largest Buddhist population — China sees one of the most widespread celebrations. Most of the action revolves around Buddhist temples, where people light incense and leave offerings. In South Korea, the holiday comes to life in a Lotus Lantern festival, best viewed at Seoul’s Jogyesa Temple. In Sri Lanka, people decorate their homes with paper lanterns. Colombo’s Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple hosts a colorful Vesak Day festival. In Ipoh, Malaysia, Buddhist devotees practice the ritual of “Sunning Buddha.” Also at Enlightened Heart Tibetan Buddhist temple, monks place a sacred Tibetan Buddhist painting — called a “Thangka” — in the sun to absorb its powers. In Nepal, thousands of Buddhists flock to Lumbini, his birthplace, where they donate supplies to disadvantaged communities and pay tribute to monasteries. GS-2 India elected to head UN-Habitat, the United Nations’ Human Settlements Programme (Topic: International Relations) About: UN Habitat came into being in 1978. It promotes socially and environmentally sustainable human settlements across the world. UN-Habitat reports to the United Nations General Assembly. As an inter-governmental policy making and decision making body, the Governing Council of UN-Habitat seeks to promote integral and comprehensive approach to human settlements, assist the countries and regions in addressing human settlement problems and strengthen cooperation among all countries on human settlement issue. India will be leading the organisation for third time after heading it in 1988 and 2007. India will be the President of the Governing Council for the next two years. The theme of the 26th Meeting of the Governing Council is “Opportunities for effective implementation of the New Urban Agenda”. The New Urban Agenda was adopted by the world community at Quito, Ecuador in 2016. Real Estate Act comes into force from 1st May 2017 (Topic: Govt Acts and Policies) About: With Real Estate (Regulation & Development) Act,2016 coming into force, it involves regulation of real estate sector involving over 76,000 companies across the county. From now, developers shall get all the ongoing projects that have not received Completion Certificate and the new projects registered with Regulatory Authorities within three months i.e by July end. This enables the buyers to enforce their rights and seek redressal of grievances after such registration. The Act ushers in the much desired accountability, transparency and efficiency in the sector with the Act defining the rights and obligations of both the buyers and developers. Some of the major provisions of the Act, besides mandatory registration of projects and Real Estate Agents include: Depositing 70% of the funds collected from buyers in a separate bank account in case of new projects and 70% of unused funds in case of ongoing projects; Projects with plot size of minimum 500 sq.mt or 8 apartments shall be registered with Regulatory Authorities; Both developers and buyers to pay the same penal interest of SBI’s Marginal Cost of Lending Rate plus 2% in case of delays; Liability of developers for structural defects for five years; and Imprisonment of up to three years for developers and up to one year in case of agents and buyers for violation of orders of Appellate Tribunals and Regulatory Authorities. Stats: As per industry information, between 2011 and 2015, real estate projects in the range of 2,349 to 4,488 projects were launched every year amounting to a total of 17,526 projects with a total investment of Rs.13.70 lakh cr in 27 cities including 15 State capitals. About ten lakh buyers invest every year with the dream of owning a house. Launch of “One IP- Two Dispensaries” and “Aadhaar Based Online Claim Submission” Schemes on International Labour Day (Topic: Issues related to health) About: One IP- Two Dispensaries– ESIC has given an option to an Insured Person (IP) to choose two dispensaries, one for self and another for family through an employer. This will benefit all IPs, especially migrant workers who are working in other than home State, while their families are living in their native States. Because of non-availability of option of second dispensary, the dependant members of family are often deprived of medical benefits. Aadhaar based Online Claim Submission- all EPF Members who have activated their UAN and seeded their KYC (Aadhaar) with EPFO will be able to apply for PF final settlement (form19), Pension withdrawal benefit (Form10-C) and PF part withdrawal (Form31) from the their UAN Interface directly. The three forms collectively form more than 80% of EPFO’s claim workload. VIDYA VEERTA ABHIYAN (Topic: HRD) About: Ministry of Human Resource Development to encourage varsities to display portraits of Param Veer Chakra-decorated soldiers to instill sense of “nationalism” and “patriotism” among the students. MHA advisory to States/UTs on Prison Reforms (Topic: Govt Acts and Policies) About: The 5th National Conference of Head of Prisons of States and UTs on Prison Reforms was held in September 2016. Some important resolutions were adopted for guidance and implementation by the State/UT Prison authorities The nomenclature of ‘Prisons Department’ may be changed to “Prisons and Correctional Administration”, which should have integrated prison, correctional and probation services. Every State should establish a Welfare Wing under Prison Department comprising Welfare Officers, Law Officers, Counselors and Probation Officers. To ensure basic uniformity, all States and Union Territories should revise their existing Prison Manuals by adopting the provisions of Model Prison Manual, 2016 The Prisons should be linked with Courts through video conferencing for expeditious trial and to save costs in escorting under-trials to the Courts. The existing vacancies in all ranks of Prison Departments to be filled up expeditiously. Prison e-system should be integrated with Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) as well as e-Courts on priority basis. Combined training of Prison, Police, Health Department and Judiciary on under-trial Management to be conducted periodically. The States and UTs have been advised to make concerted efforts to implement the same in a time bound manner, which will go a long way in alleviating the condition of prison inmates and bring the desired improvement in prison administration. GS-3 29th India- Indonesia Co-Ordinated Patrol (Corpat) (Topic: S&T) Objective: Apart from securing the trade sea route, the Coordinated Patrol also serves to enhance mutual understanding and inter–operability between the two navies of Indonesia and India. The CORPAT thus reflects the shared concerns between the two countries for a peaceful Indian Ocean for the benefit of international community. The close defence relations between India and Indonesia have been growing steadily with regular joint activities and exchanges of personnel between the Armed Forces of the two countries. Under the broad ambit of this strategic partnership, Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) and the Indian Navy have been carrying out coordinated patrolling twice a year since 2002 near the International Maritime Boundary Line to keep this part of the Indian Ocean region safe and secure for commercial shipping and international trade. Project “LOcal Treatment of Urban Sewage Streams for Healthy Reuse) (LOTUS HR) (Topic: Environment) About: LOcal Treatment of Urban Sewage Streams for Healthy Reuse (LOTUS HR) is an Indo-Netherlands joint project funded by Department of Biotechnology(DBT), Govt of india and NWO/STW, The Govt of Netherlands. Aims To demonstrate a novel holistic (waste-) water management approach, that will produce clean water that can be reused for various proposes (e.g. industry, agriculture, construction etc.), while simultaneously recovering nutrients and energy from the urban waste water, thus converting drain into profitable mines. Special attention will be paid to pathogen removal and removing conventional and emerging pollutants. Special attention will be paid to pathogen removal and removing conventional and emerging pollutants. From the early start of the project, end-users (municipality, DDA, DJB, NGO’s, and companies like Shell, Hydrorock, Nijhuis, Berson, etc.) will be engaged in design at the pilot location as well as in formulation of specific research sub-questions. This will facilitate rapid adoption of the Water Resuse safety plan and the newly developed products. DBT in consultation with DDA has identified the Barapullah drain, Sarai Kale Khan, in the state of Delhi for setting up on-site experimental testing lab and for the establishment of a pilot plant. Department of Telecom (DoT) Launches Tarang Sanchar (Topic: S&T) About: It is a web portal for Information sharing on Mobile Towers and EMF Emission Compliances. It will help in clearing the myths and misconceptions of public on mobile towers and emissions from them. There are over 25,000 studies by WHO in the last 30 years on the subject and there is no proof that EMF radiation has any harmful effect on human health. In future, it will help in identifying the blind spots and it is also environment friendly as no paper work is required for this. For realising the vision of Digital India, it is necessary to have more and more mobile towers in every nook and corner of the country as mobile phone today has become an essential requirement for all including the poor in the remotest corner of the country The portal will allow users to get a tower or base station checked for radiation emission, for a fee of Rs 4,000. The portal also has ‘EMF Overview’ and ‘Learn’ Sections, which provide numerous articles, booklets and videos, to further educate the citizens about EMF and coverage of telecom services. In addition to Government to Citizen (G2C) services, portal also facilitates Government to Business (G2B) service delivery in a transparent and eco-friendly manner. National Steel Policy 2017 (Topic: Growth and Development) About: Union Cabinet has given its approval for National Steel Policy (NSP) 2017 which enshrines the long term vision of the Government to give impetus to the steel sector. NSP 2017 seeks to enhance domestic steel consumption, ensure high quality steel production and create a technologically advanced and globally competitive steel industry. Key features of the NSP 2017: Create self-sufficiency in steel production by providing policy support & guidance to private manufacturers, MSME steel producers, CPSEs Encourage adequate capacity additions Development of globally competitive steel manufacturing capabilities Cost-efficient production Domestic availability of iron ore, coking coal & natural gas Facilitating foreign investment Asset acquisitions of raw materials Enhancing the domestic steel demand Highlights Indian steel sector has grown rapidly over the past few years (Production in 2016-17= 100 MT) It is third largest steel producer globally, contributing to about 2% of the country’s GDP. NSP 2017 aspires to achieve 300MT of steel-making capacity by 2030. It seeks to increase consumption of steel and major segments are infrastructure, automobiles and housing. Steel Ministry will facilitate R&D in the sector through the establishment of Steel Research and Technology Mission of India (SRTMI). With the roll out of the National Steel Policy-2017, it is envisaged that the industry will be steered in creating an environment for promoting domestic steel and thereby ensuring a scenario where production meets the anticipated pace of growth in consumption. Background Steel is one of the most important products in the modern world and forms the backbone to any industrial economy. The sector is of strategic importance to India due to its extensive application right from construction, infrastructure, power, aerospace and industrial machinery to consumer products. Owing to the strategic importance of the sector along with the need to have a robust and restructured policy in present scenario, the new NSP, 2017 became imminent. Though, National Steel Policy 2005 sought to indicate ways and means of consolidating the gains flowing out of the then economic order and charted out a road map for sustained and efficient growth of the Indian steel industry, it required adaptation in view of the recent developments unfolding in India and also worldwide. SAMPADA (Scheme For Agro-Marine Processing And Development Of Agro-Processing Clusters) (Topic: Agriculture) About: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval for re-structuring the schemes of the Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) under new Central Sector Scheme – SAMPADA for 2016-20 coterminous with the 14th Finance Commission cycle. The objective of SAMPADA is to supplement agriculture, modernize processing and decrease agri-waste. SAMPADA is an umbrella scheme incorporating ongoing schemes of the Ministry like Mega Food Parks, Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure, Food Safety and Quality Assurance Infrastructure, etc. It now also includes new schemes of Infrastructure for Agro-processing Clusters, Creation of Backward and Forward Linkages and Creation / Expansion of Food Processing & Preservation Capacities. The implementation of SAMPADA will result in creation of modern infrastructure with efficient supply chain management from farm gate to retail outlet.

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs 15th June, 2017

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 15th June 2017 Archives NATIONAL/SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY TOPIC: General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. India and its neighborhood‐ relations. General Studies 3 Science and Technology‐ developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Awareness in the fields of IT, Space Can Big Data Analytics lead to eColonisation of India: What is Big Data? Big Data, as the term implies, refers to the storage of unusually large magnitude of data in electronic form (order of terabytes and higher). Big Data in itself hold no significance. It is the big Data analysis enabled by increased computational capability & tools which gives us useful insights. How does Big Data work? Big Data works on the principle that the more you know about anything or any situation, the more reliably you can gain new insights and make predictions about what will happen in the future. By comparing more data points, relationships will begin to emerge that were previously hidden, and these relationships will enable us to learn and inform our decisions. What is unique about Big Data Technology (BDT) is the scale at which this data collection can take place. For instance, Google has stored petabytes of information about billions of people and their online browsing habits. Similarly, Facebook and Amazon have collected information about social networks. Significance of big data analytics : Throws surprising trends which would be otherwise hard to detect. For example, This year Economic survey utilized Big Data analysis to give several surprising facts e.g. inter-state people movement is rather high. Possible application: Health- Big Data is being used to find solutions of Multi Drug Resistant bacteria, HIV/AIDS, Cancer etc. Data-driven medicine involves analyzing vast numbers of medical records and images for patterns which can help spot disease early and develop new medicines. Education- Andhra Pradesh govt has cooperated with tech giant Microsoft to analyze school drop out rate and suggest solutions. Climate change- A number of variable affecting climate change makes big Data only option for successful analysis and suggesting remedial steps. Agriculture- It can be employed to analyze soil health, predict water availability, impact of pesticides etc. Agriculture is being revolutionized by data which can be used to maximize crop yields, minimize the amount of pollutants released into the ecosystem and optimize the use of machines and equipment Predict and respond to natural and man-made disasters- Sensor data can be analyzed to predict where earthquakes are likely to strike next, and patterns of human behavior give clues which help aid organizations give relief to survivors. Big Data technology is also used to monitor and safeguard the flow of refugees away from war zones around the world Crime tracking & prevention- It can be used to reduce crime by exposing Nexus and crime trends invisible by naked eyes. Police forces are increasingly adopting data-driven strategies based on their own intelligence and public data sets in order to deploy resources more efficiently and act as a deterrent where one is needed. Make our everyday lives easier and more convenient- Shopping online, crowdsourcing a ride or a place to stay on holiday, choosing the best time to book flights and deciding what movie to watch next are all easier thanks to Big Data. Improved governance- Big data and advanced analytics platform can play a critical role in integrating and exploiting the multiple data sources to help tax departments in efficient discharge of their responsibilities and bridging the tax gap. This will not only help them build integrated views of tax filers and individual tax submissions but also empower them to respond in a more targeted way , thereby using resources optimally. It is an indispensable tool for effective policy making , efficient public service delivery and better resource optimization. Big Data can enhance the government’s ability to serve its citizens and address major national challenges involving the economy, healthcare, job creation, natural disasters, and terrorism. Dangers of big data analytics: Data privacy – The Big Data we now generate contains a lot of information about our personal lives, much of which we have a right to keep private. Increasingly we are asked to strike a balance between the amount of personal data we divulge, and the convenience that Big Data powered apps and services offer. Data security- One major problem with collecting and storing such vast amounts of data overseas is the ability of owners of such data stores to violate the privacy of people. Foreign governments or rogue multinationals could clandestinely access these vast pools of personal data in order to affect policies of a nation. Such knowledge could prove toxic and detrimental in the hands of unscrupulous elements or hostile foreign governments. The alleged Russian interference in the U.S. election tells us that these possibilities are not simply science fiction fantasies. Data discrimination – When everything is known, will it become acceptable to discriminate against people based on data we have on their lives? We already use credit scoring to decide who can borrow money, and insurance is heavily data-driven. We can expect to be analyzed and assessed in greater detail. Potential drain of economic wealth of a nation- Currently, the corporations collecting such vast amounts of data are all based in developed countries, mostly in the U.S. Most emerging economies, including India, have neither the knowledge nor the favourable environment for businesses that collect data on such a vast scale. The advertising revenue that is currently earned by local newspapers or other media companies would eventually start to flow outside the country to overseas multinationals. What India can do? Chinese example: China has apparently understood the dynamics of big data analytics and taken measures to counter its threat. It has encouraged the formation of large Internet companies such as Baidu and Alibaba and deterred Google and others from having major market share in China by using informal trade restraints and anti-monopoly rules against them. India may not be able to emulate China in this way, but we could take other countermeasures to preserve our digital economy independence. The heart of building companies using BDT is their ability to build sophisticated super-large data centres. By providing appropriate subsidies such as cheap power and real estate, and cheap network bandwidth to those data centres, one would encourage our industries to be able to build and retain data within our boundaries. In the short term, we should also create a policy framework that encourages overseas multinationals such as Google and Amazon to build large data centres in India and to retain the bulk of raw data collected in India within our national geographical boundaries. We should also build research and development activities in Big Data Science and data centre technology at our academic and research institutions that allow for better understanding of the way in which BDT can be limited to reduce the risk of deductive disclosure at an individual level. We need to develop software and train individuals on how to protect their privacy and for organisations and government officials to put in place strict firewalls, data backup and secure procedures. It should be ensured that the information is not distorted; not disclosed; not appropriated; not stolen; and not intruded upon within specified rules and guidelines. Hence the importance of government regulation and policies on the use of such collected data and associated privacy rights. India also needs to adopt BDT in areas where it can prove to be beneficial. Gartner, a research firm expects over 25% of global firms to have adopted big analytics for at least one security and fraud detection use case by 2016 and therefore, countries such as India, China, and Singapore will find themselves at the receiving end, if they do not translate their failure- to adoption of Big Data for increased security purposes. Conclusion: The government has approved the “Digital India” Plan that aims to connect 2.5 lakh villages to the Internet by 2019 and to bring Wi-Fi access to 2.5 lakh schools, all universities and public places in major cities and major tourist centres. This is indeed a very desirable policy step. But unless we evolve appropriate policies to counter the side effects of the Digital Plan, this could also lead to the unforeseen e-Colonisation of India. We need to make sure that India finds a way to protect both financial rewards and ensure individual privacy and national security through appropriate safeguards. Connecting the dots: What do you understand by big data technology? Discuss its applications as well as danger involved in adopting BDT. Elaborate on measures required to be taken by India in order to ensure privacy, check data theft and at the same time benefit from the rewards of BDT. INTERNATIONAL  TOPIC:  General Studies 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests. China's inroads into Myanmar The first priority Aung San Suu Kyi had on assuming office was to establish ethnic peace in Myanmar, where minority groups have resorted to armed insurrection. President Thein Sein, who headed the Government earlier, had negotiated cease-fire agreements with a number of these groups. But, a number of influential and powerful groups continued with their revolts. Rather than appreciating Suu Kyi’s efforts to seek ethnic peace, western powers and Islamic busybodies such as Turkey and Malaysia chose to pressurise Myanmar for alleged violation of the human rights of its Rohingya Muslim population. On the other hand, China’s approach to Myanmar’s ethnic problems which is forcing Myanmar into a tight Chinese bear hug. How China prevails The long-running ethnic insurgencies in Myanmar now involve 22 armed groups, comprising ethnic minorities. Amongst the strongest of these groups are the United WA State Army (UWSA) and the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), which operate across the India-China-Myanmar tri-junction. These groups receive weapons and logistical support from China. The KIA has backed India’s north-eastern separatist groups such as ULFA and the NSCN (Khaplang), in consultation with government officials in China’s neighbouring Yunnan province. Cross-border attacks by the UWSA are a major instrument of China to pressurise Myanmar. China also regards Myanmar as a land bridge to the Indian Ocean. Beijing skillfully used its security and economic leverage to ‘persuade’ Suu Kyi to give it a significant say in her quest for peace agreements with armed separatist groups. China shielded Myanmar from western criticism in the UN, on the issue of Rohingya Muslims. It reportedly persuaded the UWSA recently to accept a ceasefire. It is acting similarly with the Kachin Independence Organisation (KIO). Large Chinese infrastructure and mining projects in Myanmar have come up since the early 1990s, with scant regard for environmental degradation and displacement. Apart from displacement of thousands, this project involved the transmission of 90 per cent of the power generated to China. India at a disadvantage India has to recognise the reality that it cannot match China in weapons supply, or in a range of infrastructure and industrial projects. India, for example, cannot match Chinese supply of JF 17 fighters manufactured in Pakistan, as our much-touted Light Combat Aircraft has not yet been operationalised. Likewise, our public sector infrastructure projects such as the Sittwe Port, the Kaladan Corridor linking our landlocked north-eastern States to the Bay of Bengal at Sittwe, or the proposed 1800 MW hydro-electric project, have either been delayed or abandoned. While diplomatic efforts enabled us to get a stake in successful offshore gas exploration, we lost access to the gas because of our inability – and indeed inefficiency – in devising measures to transport/transfer and utilise the gas, which is now transshipped to China by a pipeline. Private sector projects to use Myanmar’s vast bamboo resources for the paper industry, or investment in the agricultural sector have similarly been delayed, or failed. Problems for India have now increased, because of covert Chinese support for India’s north-eastern separatist groups. China’s envoy to Myanmar has “facilitated” talks with the KIO – a development India should closely monitor. China now has an ability to significantly influence Myanmar insurgent groups. India-Myanmar cooperation needs a review: We need to review and restructure our economic cooperation with Myanmar, with an increasing focus on assisting the populations living close to our borders through schemes for education, health, communications and small/village industries. The main area which has won us gratitude is vocational training and education facilities for Myanmar personnel. The rupee could be made legal tender for such cross-border projects. This could be undertaken in close cooperation with Japan and the Asian Development Bank and duly integrated with new measures now being considered for giving momentum to Regional Cooperation through BIMSTEC. Conclusion: Despite above developments, India has continued its engagement with Myanmar, with both Army Chief General B. P. Rawat and Foreign Secretary Jaishankar visiting Myanmar recently. The Indian Armed Forces have traditionally had friendly relations with their Myanmar counterparts. Both countries face problems of armed separatist groups using each other’s soil. This should be focused upon. Further India must reorient and review its relationship with Myanmar if it wants to maintain stability in Northeastern region of the country. Connecting the dots: India and Myanmar relation is facing challenges due to China's inroads into Myanmar. Discuss advantages which India has over China which it can leverage to improve relation with Myanmar. Northeastern India is already a disturbed region due to insurgency. Discuss how strengthening of China's relationship with Myanmar may further worsen the situation. 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IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs 14th June, 2017

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 14th June 2017 Archives NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 3 Infrastructure: Energy Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. India’s Energy Transformation India has gained global attention for its ambitious clean energy targets. India is now expected to play a major role in global energy transformation, by maintaining its own pledges, holding to account the developed world and thus, building global confidence.  India has become a frontrunner in energy transformation: India added more renewable energy (RE) capacity than conventional generation capacity in 2016-17. RE tariff in the country dropped to a level that is cost competitive with coal-fired generation. According to EY’s renewable energy country attractiveness index, India pipped the US to become the second most attractive country for RE investments. According to government data, the share of renewable energy in the total installed capacity was 13% at the end of financial year 2016. But it is expected to increase significantly in the coming years, with solar a big driver. Ambitious targets: In 2014, the domestic RE target was revised to 175 GW of installed capacity by 2022. In 2015, in its Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDC), India made a global pledge to achieve 40% cumulative installed capacity from fossil-fuel-free resources by 2030. The country already has 33% fossil-fuel-free generation capacity, and as predicted by Central Electricity Authority, it may achieve the INDC target sooner. Issues: 1) Domestic target versus global pledge No sync between the domestic target and global pledge: Several analyses have pointed out that if India achieves the 2022 target, it will likely overachieve the INDC target for next five years. As many of the distribution companies (discoms) are struggling with surplus capacity and storage capacities are yet to be developed, RE will add to power scheduling and balancing woes. 2) Mismatch between RE capacity and energy generated: Actual generation from proposed RE capacity is unclear due to uncertainties in capacity utilization factor. In 2016-17, with 17.52% share of generation capacity, RE contributed only 6.59% of energy generated. Part of this is blamed on reluctant evacuation by unwilling discoms, who have already contracted for higher amount of conventional power than their existing demand. Similarly, 33% fossil fuel-free capacity contributed less than 20% of the energy generated. Even if India achieves its INDC target, given its reliance on RE, the share of fossil fuel-free energy generated will not change much. Source: http://www.livemint.com/r/LiveMint/Period2/2017/06/14/Photos/Processed/w_oped.jpg 3) Focus on building a domestic reform coalition is inadequate: Past experiences in India suggest Centre-pushed reforms have failed to sustain, owing to poor sub-national adoption. Sustaining the desired energy transformation needs alignment of interests and building a reform coalition between the Centre, states, utilities, regulators and private players, among others. On the deployment front, while there is good progress in reaching the 60 GW utility scale solar capacity, rooftop solar is lagging behind. As of April, only 1.5 GW capacity has been installed against a target of 40 GW by 2022. 4) Conventional power suppliers will be affected: The rise in cheap supply from renewable sources would affect the demand from conventional power suppliers in India. A hit in revenue will hurt the ability of thermal power companies to repay loans, which would mean more trouble for the banking sector. The fall in tariffs(solar power) may make adjustments difficult for conventional power producers 5) MNRE’s singular focus on solar energy in the renewables mission: India is the fourth largest producer of wind energy in the world, with a total installed capacity of 27GW. Since wind power dominated the field of renewables for the longest time, the thrust for solar energy is understandable. However, the goal of 60GW by 2022 undermines its actual growth potential. According to National Institute of Wind Energy, India has the capacity to install and generate 302GW of wind power, as well as increase its production to 67GW by 2020 itself with the right push. More takers of RE: Some states seem to be aligning with the domestic narrative of using RE for energy security and economic development, though with varying objective and approach. While states like Madhya Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh have added RE to their industrial thrust, building on the economic development narrative, states like Odisha have taken up RE to bridge energy access gap. Simultaneously, there is an emerging political mandate for RE. Many members of Parliament and legislative assemblies across party lines have taken up RE installation as a key part of their local area development. During recent state assembly elections, RE development featured in manifestos of many political parties. Government departments are being encouraged to adopt RE deployment in their activities. RE is allowed as a legitimate item under CSR (corporate social responsibility) spending. Way ahead: A high-level policy signal is in place, a political mandate is shaping up and implementing actors are coming up. To meet the global expectations, India needs much more proactive and creative actions. It needs to ensure that proposed RE capacity transforms the consumable energy mix. To do so, India must balance between complementing generation capacities rather than pushing for preferred technologies. In addition, given the unpredictability of RE generation, the time is ripe for storage capacity development. The proposed policy goal of electric vehicles is a welcome step, but it needs to be creatively used for storage, while reaping other co-benefits. Finally, the state must facilitate a domestic coalition for energy transformation, by aligning interests. We should prioritise the increase in shares of all renewable sources proportionately for greater reach in clean energy. Portugal and Costa Rica, for example, depend upon a renewable energy mix that affords due importance to solar, wind and hydropower, and the results speak for themselves Ensuring the right incentives are in place, not just for solar but all renewables, as well as strictly directing funds from the coal tax to NCFE to facilitate larger investment. Conclusion: With ambitious targets and policy incentives India is surely on its path of energy transformation. Globally moving towards renewable energy will help fight climate change while domestically it will help in energy security and economic development. Connecting the dots: India is expected to play a major role in global energy transformation. The goals and policy incentives are in place, but more needs to be done. Discuss. ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth. Reorienting India’s trade policy It is vital that India’s trade policy, while taking cognizance of GST’s nitty-gritties, also realigns domestic trade infrastructure with the altering global trade landscape. India’s commerce ministry is conducting a mid-year review of its trade policy to closely align it with the roll-out of the goods and services tax (GST) on 1 July. It might make more sense to re-anchor the policy in the shifting framework for global trade and the rapidly evolving nature of globalization. Altering global trade landscape: Deep resentment against globalization’s misaligned distribution effects, a widening wage gap and increasing inequality have given birth to an aggressive brand of nationalism. Brexit in the UK, US President Donald Trump’s executive decisions on trade (withdrawing from the Trans-Pacific Partnership, restricting H1B visas, threatening the North America Free Trade Agreement) or geopolitical moves (hectoring European leaders or abandoning the Paris climate change agreement) were custom-built to address localized grievances. Australia, New Zealand and Singapore are also following in the US’ footsteps, complicating India’s traditional trade matrix. Belt-Road initiative, a vehicle designed to rejuvenate China’s surplus domestic capacity and to give expression to its expansionist aspirations. The second is the recent schism in the Gulf with Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Libya, Yemen and the Maldives collectively imposing informal sanctions against Qatar by shutting down transport links and choking essential supplies. Way forward: Three areas demand trade policy’s attention. 1) Targeting alternative markets: Less reliance on traditional trade partners in the West while increasing India’s trade and investment footprint in alternative markets, such as the African continent. India started looking at Africa seriously after the launch of economic reforms in 1991 and then with renewed vigour after the 2008 crisis. However, promises to increase two-way trade between India and Africa to $90 billion by 2015 have remained largely unfulfilled. India’s trade with Africa touched $56.7 billion during 2015-16, down from $72 billion in 2014-15. The drop is largely due to the fall in oil prices, which contracted India’s import bill with Nigeria. Meanwhile, China-Africa two-way trade touched $215 billion during calendar 2014. India has intensified its relationship with Africa, which includes initiating several high-level visits since 2015. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, President Pranab Mukherjee and vice-president Hamid Ansari have between them visited 16 countries, with senior cabinet ministers visiting the remaining countries on the continent. During May, the African Development Bank held its 52nd annual meeting in Ahmedabad. More needs to be done, of course. Trade policy can examine how coordinated action between commerce, finance and external affairs ministries might help in expanding India’s trade efforts; for example, a larger presence of Indian banks outside the conventional East African can help reduce export credit costs. 2) Linking India's trade policy with Make in India: Second, there is a need for a clear link between India’s trade policy and Make In India, including strategic linkages through global value chains. Policy clarity will be required whether India desires domestic manufacturing platforms that double as supply hubs for a global market, or assembly units that can be folded up and relocated elsewhere when cost arbitrage dries up (Chinese mobile units are perhaps a good example). Trade policy may be able to play a role here. 3) Focusing on trade in services: Finally, there is trade in services. There seems to be a concerted move within the rich countries—through the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development—to open up trade in services, including movement of professionals. This has been India’s longstanding demand because trade in services has been asymmetric so far—high in capital flows, information and communication technology, but low in free movement of professionals. Rising unemployment, particularly in Europe, could be driving Western agencies to prise open employment markets elsewhere. India’s demand (and strategy) for trade facilitation in services should find some articulation in the revised trade policy. Conclusion: Recent developments are bound to reorder the global trade system. Therefore, it is imperative that India’s trade policy also realigns domestic trade infrastructure with the altering global trade landscape. It is also perhaps the perfect opportunity for the policy to be more of a strategy document rather than a manual. Connecting the dots: India's trade policy must be re-oriented asper the recent developments, both domestic as well as global. Discuss. MUST READ The best times, the worst times Hindu Waiting for reconciliation in Myanmar Hindu Moroccan Spring Hindu Detecting possibilities Hindu Error of commission Indian Express Language matters Indian Express Not worth the tax Indian Express The Indian Navy's humanitarian impulse Livemint Reorienting India's trade policy Livemint Why India should set store its FTA with Europe Business Line Rushing to get last mile delivery right Business Line China is Nepal's new best friend Business Line  

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The Big Picture - Asia-Africa Growth Corridor- Can it be a game changer?

Asia-Africa Growth Corridor- Can it be a game changer? Archives TOPIC:  General Studies 2 India and its neighborhood‐ relations Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Important International institutions, agencies and fora their structure, mandate About AAGC: The Asia-Africa Growth Corridor or AAGC is an economic cooperation agreement between the governments of India and Japan. India on 25 May 2017 launched a vision document for Asia-Africa Growth Corridor or AAGC at the African Development Bank meeting in Gujarat. It aims for Indo-Japanese collaboration to develop quality infrastructure in Africa, complemented by digital connectivity. The vision document is a study jointly produced by three research institutions of India and Japan in consultation with other Asian and African think tanks. It envisages closer engagement between India and Africa for “sustainable and innovative development”. The AAGC will envisage people centric sustainable growth strategy, details of which would be evolved through a process of detailed consultation across Asia and Africa. It will be anchored to four pillars: Development and cooperation projects; Quality infrastructure and institutional connectivity; Enhancing capacities and skills and People-to-people partnership. It will accord priority to development projects in health and pharmaceuticals, agriculture and agro-processing, disaster management, and skill enhancement. It will have special focus on Africa, India and South Asia, Southeast Asia, East Asia and Oceania. How is it different from China's OBOR? The two projects- AAGC and OBOR are qualitatively different in their approach. While China through OBOR concentrates on infrastructure and cheque-book diplomacy. OBOR is meant to growth trade by building trade infra be it on land route or maritime. AAGC is to promote a broader spectrum of cooperation projects and programes focused on the development of Africa’s human resources. Projects under AAGC are people oriented. They are synchronized with African priorities be it in health, education, skill training etc. While OBOR is more of infra centric whether sustainable or non sustainable. The partnership is based on the strength India has in Africa which is more people to people contact, network based strength rather than rebalancing business by pushing investment out of huge forex reserves. While China is in infra, the AAGC has a totally different orientation. It is suitably modest. China' OBOR is oriented towards Eurasian mainland while AAGC is maritime oriented. AAGC is much more collaborative and its focus on capacity building unlike OBOR initiative. The willingness of India to partner with Japan to assist Africa is different from China's methods of going alone. Can it be a game changer? The potential for the partnership to become a game changer is huge because of following factors- Commonness of our needs. India's strengths being Africa's needs. The huge size of India and Africa. Focus of population is shifting in Africa. This means there will be massive requirements for capacity building. Compatibility the India and Africa share. Partnership with Japan is itself going to be highly beneficial. While Japan has its own strength of finance, India has the ability to deliver. Centuries of relationship with Africa, India is already running various programmes running in India for Africans like the Barefoot college etc. All this things will come very handy. In past decades or so India an Africa has connected more effectively. African Development Bank holding annual meeting in Gujarat and the success of India Africa forum summit highlights the strengthening relationship between India and Africa. Who else can we get on board? US can be specifically in agriculture, research and development. But with Mr. Trump as President such partnership becomes difficult South Africa can also be involved. But its relation with china must be taken into account as big flagship project of China appears to be in South Africa. Germany and France- both have been active in Africa, both have technology, fund and both the nations have close relation with India. Challenges: Way ahead: China is rapidly expanding its footprint in Africa. They have been investing heavily in the Africa. Even small sectors like poultry have been taken over by China. So India and Japan do not have the luxury of time. India and Japan should immediately initiate a few joint pilot projects involving the companies of India, Japan and a few African countries in identified areas such as health care, agriculture and blue economy. They should increase the scope of their development projects, create synergy among themselves and engage proactively with other willing partners. Projects already successful in India like neem coated urea, solar plants, DBT, irrigation etc. - all such can be implemented in Africa at the earliest. India should also be open minded to what she can learn from African nations. For example- the mobile based payment system of Kenya. People to people contact- Govt should recognize that in India we need to do lots of work regarding sensitization and changing the mindset of people here towards Africa. Or else the basic objective of people centric relationship wont get fulfilled. It is not just the government that will have to so whatever it can to improve our quality of relation with Africa, Business men, corporates must also be incentivised. Conclusion: AAGC is of course a win-win partnership for both India and Africa. It will provide new force and dynamism to Asia-Africa relationship. However, timing is of essence when AAGC is concerned and thus India needs to expedite. Africa is trying to connect to us and it is our responsibility to be considerate, show compassion and respect towards Africa Connecting the dots: The vision document Asia Africa Growth Corridor was launched by India and Japan soon after the launch of China's OBOR initiative. Discuss the differences between the two and the potential the AAGC holds to be a game changer in the Africa-Asian relationship.