Jun 25, 2017 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – NLP Learning Strategy Modeling – Inspirational & Educative Articles

NLP Learning Strategy Modeling: Continuing our understanding of NLP learning strategies let us explore a marvellous and applicable concept of NLP modeling. Modeling in NLP is a way of observing other people and their actions to model successful behavioural patterns. Modelling is the underlying principle feature of NLP and its enormous success. According to NLP behaviour can be modelled from others. NLP Modeling is a process of observing, recording and practising successful behavioural patterns exhibited by those who have succeeded before us in our chosen endeavour. Each and every successful person has practised a set of successful routine of actions and behaviour patterns that has led to his success. Modeling is a process of identifying, patterning and exhibiting those behaviours. Here is a wonderful story of Tony Robbins, a life coach who uses his NLP techniques to help Andre Agassi. He tells what it was like working with tennis legend Andre Agassi in 1993 when Agassi fell from the world's No. 1 spot and then suffered a wrist injury. When they met, Agassi told Robbins that he'd been spending time working on his swing mechanics, especially in relation to his recovering wrist. "I sit down with him and I said, 'Andre ... think of a time you hit the tennis ball perfectly,'" Robbins tells Ferris. "I got him in that state ... and I said to him, 'You feel that?' And he goes, 'Yeah.' I said, 'Listen, are you thinking about your wrist?' And he says, 'No.' And I said, 'How the hell did you think you'd ever get back to that peak form by focusing on your wrist?'" Robbins references the science of habit formation, in which the brain creates paths for certain repeated actions. He was getting Agassi to tap into this pattern and ignore distractions, like focusing on how his wrist moved, which is something he had never done when he was playing at his peak. Agassi recovered and says that Robbins is an ultimate ‘Life Coach’ The same principle that applied to Agassi applies to any other professional who has fallen off from peak performance. According to Robbins, however, the ability to recover is innate. "I will find ... what specific pattern will hook them back up again to that part of their brain where it's effortless," Robbins says. "To that part of the brain where they don't even think." “The articles are a copyright of The Ahamo Movement and IASBABA.”

Jun 24, 2017 Important Articles

VERY IMPORTANT UPDATE on ILP 2018, All India Prelims Test Series on the Lines of 60 Days Plan, CSAT and Surprise for HINDI Medium Aspirants-Are You Ready to Crack UPSC in One Year With Us, freshers or

Hello Friends, You can crack UPSC in the very first attempt! Yes and that too without staying in Delhi . This was the dream of IASbaba! Saumya Pandey (Rank 4) and Dinesh (Rank 6) in Top 10 CSE 2016 have achieved it along with countless others in the Final List from ILP Programme and you can be one too! Rank 6- Dinesh  Rank 4- Saumya Pandey  We have been getting numerous emails daily enquiring about the Test Series for Prelims and details about ILP programme 2018, asking about when we are going to start it? Since Prelims is over, aspirants must be very much in need to know the details and follow ups. This post is the confirmation about all the queries and a glimpse of what our future ILP-2018 will be like, new programmes and what to expect in few days when we launch it. If you restrict yourself to one source and stick to a plan with full effort and trust- You will clear it in a single attempt and won’t have to repeat the process. Yes, this we say with full confidence for our ILP program. Because it is a pedagogic program which is integrated and holistic in nature. INTEGRATED LEARNING PROGRAMME (ILP)-2018 The enrollment for  ILP will start from 26th June, 2017 Coming to the question of what does ILP contain. Most of you are already familiar. Yet we are putting out the unique features of the unique program INCLUSIONS A daily based Plan.  A unique change that ILP will be having this time the planning will be based on Topic Wise learning rather than Book wise along with sources to follow.  You will be given access to separate platform where you can interact among peers and discuss issues .This is a separate universe in itself. Plan will contain things to prepare for Prelims and Mains (GS 1, GS 2, GS3, GS4). We will cover all overlapping topics on prelims and mains well before Prelims exam and most of the mains topics also.  Precise Value Add Notes will be given for relevant topics-Both Prelims and Mains (GS 1, GS 2, GS3, GS4). Babapedia for Current Affairs- This time Babapedia will also have special issues, topic wise for Mains other than prelims. Importance of Babapedia- Collate the daily read in just 4-5 pages (max 40 points) from The Hindu, PIB and Indian Express for Prelims. There will be Weekly Prelims Tests based on the plan and revision tests as well once a significant portion of a subject is completed. Mains Mock and Synopsis- Every fortnight, you will be given Mains Questions to practice based on topics completed in the plan. You can write answers and share on platform, participate in peer reviews and then match it to improve the content and presentation from the synopsis we provide. REMARKS ILP 2017 and Babapedia’s Importance- You can cross check with any of our ILP users about its worth in 2017 Prelims examination. On several requests from our ILP users, we will be sharing the screenshots of all the direct hits (not mere keywords without any context from the content covered) in Prelims 2017 from ILP-2017 with the launch of ILP-2018 Full Plan details.  You aspirants are the smartest and can clearly see through. This exam requires smart learning and perspective building. And our programme provides you the same ingredients without breaking your heads. It allows you to focus, be on toes and revise more and more. Faith and trust is equally important when you are following something with heart. Believe in your decision. To build it, we will be providing you the glimpse with the launch. Another big surprise from IASbaba this time is that we are launching a separate ALL INDIA PRELIMS TEST SERIES 2018 on the lines of Quality of 60 Days- Hindi and English Both   There has been severe demands to start Prelims Only Test Series on the lines of quality of 60 Day Plan from aspirants usually non-fresher. So here we are with new Programme for the same. Features Full Length Test- A total of 30 Tests of GS, Paper I Topic Wise Syllabus for each Test not book wise with detailed sources to follow This test series should be  more than enough to crack Prelims comfortably if you are not a fresher. Surprise- We are going to introduce a very innovative method this time. Sample will be disclosed with the launch in few days. CSAT- PAPER II of Prelims Examination We are planning to introduce CSAT Test Series this year. Though CSAT is a qualifying examination but many are finding it difficult to qualify due to lack of practice. We intend to provide sufficient qualitative tests to prepare you well enough to qualify it. It will be included in the test series.There will be at least 10 CSAT tests. CSAT tests will be part of All India Prelims Test Series. Ending Note We hope this post would put an end to the plethora of mails we have been receiving on ILP -2018 and Test Series for Prelims. Wait for 26 June to get Full Plan with Samples and subscribe to our ILP and Prelims Test Series! Let The Countdown Begins :)  Motivation is What Gets You Started and Commitment is What Keeps You Going At IASbaba, you won't have to worry about both because we connect with each one of you by heart :)  Comment below if you are committed. Let's Do it Together! P.S- TLP Mains ONLINE- Coming Tomorrow :)  IASbaba

Jun 24, 2017 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs 24th June, 2017

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 24th June 2017 Archives NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 1 Poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Issues relating to poverty and hunger. Urban agriculture: Building food-smart cities Introduction: By 2030, it is projected that 60 per cent of the population in developing countries will live in cities. Cities have a strategic role to play in developing sustainable food systems and promoting healthy diets. As India progresses towards a rapid phase of urbanisation, attempts are being made to build urban agricultural systems. About Urban agriculture: Urban agriculture, urban farming, or urban gardening is the practice of cultivating, processing, and distributing food in or around a village, town, or city. Urban agriculture can also involve animal husbandry, aquaculture, agroforestry, urban beekeeping, and horticulture. Urban agriculture can be practised on private land such as terraces or backyards of residences, on public land such as parks, conservation areas, along the roads, streams and railway lines and on semi-public land such as schoolyards and grounds of educational and health facilities. Urban agriculture uses resources such as organic waste as compost and waste water for irrigation. Community gardens, farms in city blocks, vertical farms based on hydroponics or aeroponics and aquaculture are some smart urban agriculture models. Challenges in feeding cities: Resource scarcity, Unsustainable production and consumption patterns, and food loss and waste. Climate change: The conventional system requires trucks to crisscross the country delivering food, while releasing greenhouse gases. Rural farms can also require clearing huge swaths of forest land for crops. Rapid urbanisation in the developing world is accompanied by a rapid increase in urban poverty and urban food insecurity. This scenario is worsened by food inflation, now a global phenomenon, and one that is likely to continue. For the urban poor, expenses on food comprise a large share of their total expenditure, but they are mostly dependent on the vagaries of informal employment The International Food Policy Research Institute’s 2017 Global Food Policy Report highlights how rapid urbanisation brings unique challenges to rural and urban areas, and strong linkages between these sectors can help achieve SDG-2 (end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition, and promote sustainable agriculture). Urbanisation comes with challenges to agriculture and nutrition. Higher urban incomes are associated with a dietary transition to more animal-sourced food, fats and oil, refined grains, and fruits and vegetables, which requires more intensive use of natural resources. Urban lifestyles tend to increase consumption of processed foods and the urban poor are often limited to cheap unhealthy foods. At the same time, as urban population grows, hunger and under-nutrition will also increase in urban areas. Urban agriculture as the solution: Bringing agriculture into cities can lower food-related greenhouse gas emissions. The practice could provide city residents easier access to fresh produce. Consumers, especially the urban poor, can enjoy access to fresh produce at better prices. Providing access to healthy foods in neighborhoods that lack it, as well as economic stimulation, community engagement, and significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. The practice of urban agriculture promotes economic development through food production, builds social capital, community well-being and civic engagement. Urban agriculture can be a sustainable strategy to reduce urban poverty, food insecurity and enhance urban environmental management. It contributes to poverty alleviation, social inclusion of the poor, women empowerment, productive use of vacant plots and reuse of urban waste. Urban growers can sell directly by avoiding intermediaries and spend less time on transport, packaging and storage. Further, urban agriculture can create employment opportunities for disadvantaged groups. Apart from the benefits to the economy, urban agriculture stimulates the development of related micro-enterprises. Greater access to produce could help improve the diet of city residents, and replacing pavement with soil could help abate water runoff, for example. The importance of urban agriculture is also being recognised by various organisations such as the United Nations-Habitat and FAO (Food and Agriculture Organisation). Challenges: Inattentiveness in practising urban agriculture may cause health and environmental risks such as use of contaminated land, inappropriate use of pesticides or raw organic manure leaking into water sources. Increasing pollution, and contamination of the city’s waste water with industrial effluents is a major constraint to the continued viability of irrigated farming and aquaculture in urban and peri-urban areas. While city-grown vegetables can have a slightly lower environmental impact than those grown thousands of miles away, horticulture has never been the real problem. It's not apples and tomatoes that are responsible for most of the diet's greenhouse gas emissions; it's animals- meat and dairy products. Thus the focus should not only be on growing vegeatbles. What needs to be done? Policy making: Due to the multi-dimensional nature of urban agriculture, policy development and action planning for it should involve multiple stakeholders from sectors such as agriculture, health, waste management and community development. As being incorporated in urban planning approaches in the United Nation’s Sustainable Cities programme. Urban agriculture policies can consider a combination of social, economic and environmental aspects. From the social angle, subsistence agriculture can form part of the livelihood strategies of urban households. The economic angle is primarily market-oriented urban agriculture, involving small-scale, family-based initiatives and larger-scale entrepreneurial farms, run by private investors or producer associations. The environment management factor lies in nutrient recycling, adoption of agro-ecological production methods, eco-sanitation and waste management. Incorporating urban agriculture into the policies and systems of every city will play an important role in unleashing its full potential. Demarcating zones: Cities can facilitate the access to urban spaces by having demarcated zones, similar to Pretoria and Beijing. Making an inventory of the available vacant open land within the city by community mapping or GIS-based data and by analysing its suitability for agriculture will be a good starting point for enhancing access to land for urban farming. Giving short- or medium-term leases to organised groups of urban producers for gardening purposes can also help. Clearly earmarking zones and avoiding unscientific intervention where only urban agriculture suited to local conditions and resource availability is practised can reduce possible health and environmental risks. Conclusion: Urban agriculture has the potential to become a vibrant economic sector that quickly adapts to changing conditions and demands, intensifying its productivity and diversifying its functions for the city. Its future will depend on its contributions to the development of a sustainable and resilient city that is inclusive, food-secure, productive and healthy, thus establishing food-smart cities. Urban agriculture, although not a solution to food insecurity, has the potential to provide millions with access to food and nutrition. Connecting the dots: About 377 million people from India’s total population of 1.21 billion are urban dwellers. With more than 10 million people migrating to cities and towns every year, the total urban population is expected to reach about 600 million by 2031.As. Discuss how with urbanisation the health and nutrition issues of urban residents especially the urban poor is bound to increase. Critically analyze how urban agriculture can be part of the solution to this problem. NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. Anti-defection law- Faces a new threat In news: After the assembly elections in 2014, a troubling situation has emerged in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. As of date, 27 legislators are alleged to have defected from various parties to the ruling Telangana Rashtra Samiti (TRS) since 2014. The speaker, S Madhusudhana Chary, himself a member of the TRS, has not taken any decision on the disqualification petitions filed against these MLAs over these three years. Likewise, in Andhra Pradesh, the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in power has been able to get 21 MLAs from the Yuvajana Shramika Rythu Congress Party (YSRCP) to defect to it, without suffering disqualification. Here too, Speaker Kodela Siva Prasada Rao, a member of the TDP, has taken no decision on the disqualification petitions. The question that "does the Tenth Schedule, in its present form, strike the right balance between the freedoms of the legislator and the need for respecting democratic mandates and processes?" has emerged again. A new threat to anti-defection law: The events in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh show that the anti-defection law faces a new, devastating threat. The speakers in these two states refused to perform their constitutional duties under the law by not taking a decision as to the disqualification of a member of legislative assembly (MLA) within reasonable time. This means that an MLA, who has otherwise violated the Tenth Schedule by “defecting” to another political party, will not suffer the legal consequence of disqualification for such “defection,” but instead will continue to enjoy her seat. This effectively renders the anti-defection law irrelevant. This new modus operandi to defeat the anti-defection law seems to avoid any possible judicial review. About anti-defection law: The (Fifty-Second Amendment) Act, 1985 introduced the Tenth Schedule to the Constitution. The ostensible reason for the introduction of the Tenth Schedule was to curb the so-called “aaya-ram-gaya-ram” practices of Indian legislators. The inspiration for this moniker is said to be Gaya Lal, a Haryana MLA who changed parties thrice in the space of one fortnight in 1967 while retaining his seat as an MLA. Defections thereafter reached such epidemic proportions that the stability of some state governments was always in question, distracting from any semblance of good governance. The Tenth Schedule was offered as the solution to this issue. However, In its 32 years of existence, political parties and legislators have come up with creative ways of avoiding the rigours of the law. Loophole in the law: Non-Partisan Speaker- By a narrow majority of three to two, a Constitution Bench held in the Kihoto Hollohan case that the Tenth Schedule was largely valid, but read down paragraph 7 which tried to exclude judicial review of the speaker’s decision on disqualification. The minority judgment raised concern about its reliance on the position of the speaker to make an impartial adjudication when the post clearly was a partisan one. Subsequent years have proved the minority judgment right as speakers have only become more partisan. The speakers’ inaction in both the states is the latest manifestation of the underlying problem highlighted by the minority judgment in the Kihoto Hollohan case—the partisan role of the speaker. The key question in the above case is whether a high court or the Supreme Court can order the speaker to take a decision on such disqualification petitions. Fixing the anti-defection law: It is perhaps time to reconsider the anti-defection law. The anti-defection law should be restricted only to votes on the budget and confidence/no-confidence motions. Simply voting against the party whip should not be a sufficient cause for disqualification. The disqualification in case of defection should be as a matter of course and not involve any discretion or decision-making on the part of the speaker. While the Supreme Court has placed much faith in the neutrality and sanctity of the office of the speaker, the reality is that the office is increasingly becoming partisan. Thus, the role ole of the speaker under the law should be carefully scrutinized. Conclusion: The above changes are necessary since what has taken place in Telangana and Andhra Pradesh is probably being watched with interest by political parties around the country. Given that most ideas concerning governance in India, good or bad, have travelled from the states to the centre, the day may not be far when the central government is formed through an illegitimate majority gained only by flagrant violation of the Tenth Schedule. Connecting the dots: Out of many challenges anti-defection law faces a major one is its reliance on non-partisan role of speaker which increasingly is becoming partisan. Analyze. Also read: Anti-defection Law- Liberate the legislator MUST READ The anonymous addicts Hindu Mandsaur- The farmer's story Hindu Engaging Pyongyang Hindu India- US and a five point plan Indian Express Home truths abroad Indian Express A new low Indian Express Redraw the line Indian Express Lengthening the shadows on the hills Indian Express

Jun 23, 2017 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs 23rd June, 2017

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 23rd June 2017 Archives INTERNAL SECCURITY/NATIONAL 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. National Security: Threats and Challenges Geo-politics, strategic and technological developments keep adding uncertainties and new dimensions to national security. The lone wolf attacks have become the new normal of security threats. The nature of conflicts and the objectives of war are also changing. We have new combat theatres, such as cyber and space. Collaboration agreements among terror outfits are increasing, with signs of greater sophistication in the means and methods to perpetuate terror. Radicalisation via the Internet has attained a whole new dimension. Propaganda via the Internet today involves far more than mere recruitment imperatives. Nevertheless, a far more dangerous aspect today is the arrival of ‘Internet-enabled’ terrorism. Security challenges for India: External security: India has a difficult neighbourhood and a full spectrum of security challenges. We have over 4,900 km (4056+740+110) long unresolved borders with two major neighbours. Both are nuclear armed. Over the years, they have established a strong strategic nexus/alliance against India. In the last few years, China has extended its claim to the whole of Arunachal Pradesh. Already occupying Aksai Chin and Shaksgam part of Gilgit-Baltistan. The China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), if and when it succeeds, will be a regional game-changer. It would affect our relationship not only with Pakistan, but also with Central Asia, and even Afghanistan. As for Pakistan, the legacy of Partition continues to fuel its unremitting animosity towards India. Kashmir and terrorism are only an expression. An increasingly dysfunctional state like Pakistan, run by generals and increasingly wracked by religious extremism, will not make peace with India. China has been equipping Pakistan with strategic and conventional military capabilities. With CPEC we will see more Chinese armed forces will enter Pakistan to protect their assets and personnel. The US will continue to provide support to Pakistan, so long as it remains entangled in Afghanistan. The developing Russia-Pakistan military bonhomie indicates that India can no longer take Russia for granted. It is not Pakistan alone. There will be challenges from neighbouring countries where China offers a counterweight. Virtually all our neighbours support China’s OBOR project, and its entry into SAARC. We can expect a greater presence of Chinese Navy in the Indian Ocean. Internal Security: On the internal security front, much more worrisome today are the new, emerging vulnerabilities. Growing unemployment, the increasing ethnic, caste, communal divides, the worsening Centre-state relations, and politicisation of every socio-economic issue have ignited more fires lately and caused serious and more frequent law and order situations. Partisan politics over national security issues — with media exploiting it for TRPs with the multiplier effect of social media — is getting the armed forces into political cross-fire. Non- traditional security challenges facing India: The lack of strategic and security awareness of our ruling elite- India lacks a strategic culture. Partisan politics over national security issues which includes drawing the armed forces into political cross-fire. We lack strategic interest, vision, or security policies. Our political leaders take little interest in long-term strategic and security issues other than rhetorical and emotional sound-bites. Yet another challenge is our defence management. The requirement to re-organise the Ministry of Defence, its business rules and appointment of a CDS (Chief of defence staff) has been talked of ever since the Kargil war. This has been recommended by the Kargil Review Committee in 1999, the Group of Ministers in 2002, and the Naresh Chandra Committee in 2012. Way ahead: We need to design and produce a major proportion of the hardware required by our armed forces. We now have an elaborate Defence Procurement Procedure (DPP-2016), with the newly approved strategic partnership model which will enable private players to make big tickets defence systems. We thus need to build our defence industrial base, We require frequent updating of weapons, equipment, revision of security concepts and doctrines, greater level of jointmanship and synergy, and much faster decision-making. In recent years, cyber and space domains have added yet another complexity. The entire command and control mechanism of the government is dependent on space satellites and IT facilities. Therefore, any military cyber war infrastructure should work in close coordination with the National Information Board. It is essential to develop, prioritise and optimally employ inter-services capabilities and promote jointness in the armed forces. Conclusion: India’s security challenges are less traditional war threats, more diffused and ambiguous. What is worrisome currently is not just the external threats, but India’s weakening from inside: Weakening institutions, poor governance, sharpening political, social and ethnic divides, internal security, and our lack of strategic vision and thinking. Countering national security challenges and decision-making can no longer be dealt with in silos. These challenges require multi-disciplinary vertical and lateral consultations, and much faster decision-making. Connecting the dots: Geo-politics, strategic and technological developments have added uncertainties and new dimensions to India's national security. Discuss major threats and challenges faced by India when it comes to national security. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2: India and its International relations. 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-US trade potential Introduction: In the coming decades, Asia will be the growth engine for the world, and India will be one of the fastest growing large economies contributing to that growth. This presents an immense market for U.S. goods and services, and an opportunity for India to benefit from greater trade and investment – leading to employment and growth for both countries. We need to put in place the necessary policy frameworks that give confidence and certainty to the private sector. There is significant scope to develop a cooperative India-US trade relationship that expands bilateral economic ties. Key concerns: The bilateral deficit Trade barriers such as tariffs on goods and enforcement of intellectual property rights. New Delhi is concerned with the inward orientation of the US under Trump. Advantages India provides to US: India is reforming and simplifying its policy regime, particularly its inside-the-border trade measures. India’s tariff regime on average is less restrictive than commonly presumed. Conventional data considerably overestimates India’s applied tariffs. For instance, while the World Trade Organization (WTO) estimate for average applied most-favoured nation (MFN) tariffs for India is above 13%, a forthcoming paper from Brookings India shows that the weighted average MFN tariff for India is less than 4%. The demand from India’s growing middle class is slated to become the second-largest in the world within 10 years. This increase would create significant opportunity for US trade and employment. An example is the estimated 104,000 US jobs created by a recent order of Boeing aircraft from an Indian private airline. According to McKinsey, a $1.1 trillion capital investment in India’s cities is necessary to meet projected demand for urban services. Economic negotiations with India are never easy, but given India is poised to surpass the U.S. economy in purchasing power parity terms by 2040, forging greater economic ties and creating a more level playing field for U.S. firms is absolutely in the United States’ economic interest. Way ahead: To effectively engage in mutually beneficial talks, the US needs to recognize and address India’s concerns about American trade policy. India should address a number of US concerns by extending the application of good governance principles—including timely and transparent decision-making—being implemented in a bid to improve India’s ranking in the global ease of doing business index. The US should aim to better the standards and technical barriers it applies to Indian exports in precisely the manner it demands of India’s similar practices. We need not have a general focus on trade policy, but we need to identify and direct efforts at particular items with high tariffs, or those non-tariff measures that are not yet subject to reform. To get better access to the growing demand, a larger focus has to be on regulatory coherence and cooperation, standards, policies and cooperation pertaining to emerging technologies such as digital, and conditions affecting investment. The progress may be aimed at methods that range from soft legal results (guidelines, understandings, agreed mechanisms to support small and medium enterprises in both economies) to hard law (tariff decreases in key products of interest to each nation). This could be facilitated by agreeing on innovative methods that combine flexibilities with discipline and provide relief in times of import surges, a concern reflected in both countries. This would be needed more for results embodying hard law, rather than soft law. There should be a start of negotiations for a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT), realizing that a bilateral arrangement could be less contentious. Providing safeguards to U.S. businesses through a BIT could open up new lines of investment, which would be valuable for workers in the U.S. and India. Much can be discussed as a part of an innovation agenda, and there is a ready-made platform in the Global Entrepreneurship Summit, which the U.S. and India are co-hosting later this year, to focus on those efforts. India’s concerns regarding US trade policies will need to be addressed to improve the possibility of mutually beneficial access to India’s markets. An important element to successful progress on trade is to ensure that each side operates on more comprehensive knowledge and a greater appreciation of prevailing situations and trends. For instance, India is instituting substantial reforms in both non-tariff measures and investment regimes. Conclusion: India and the US could show significant results in trade areas by establishing a common platform to address specific concerns in areas that require administrative solutions or better information flows between the two. Focusing on possible solutions that are more within reach, while continuing efforts to address the major concerns, is more likely to create better opportunities and more win-win situations for both India and the US. Such an approach is a pragmatic response to the challenges of making significant progress on trade. This approach will reduce the focus on more politically contentious issues, such as India’s demands for improved access to the US market for its workers, or US interests in seeing major decreases in India’s tariffs across the board. Connecting the dots: India-Us trade relation holds huge potential. However the key to tap this potential lies in focusing on reaping low hanging fruits rather than trying to address major concerns. Discuss. MUST READ Inclusion in the backward class Hindu Keeping the sixth repubic on track Hindu Debunking myths about cattle rules Hindu The clean up begins Hindu Terror virtually Indian Express Why the F16 deal isn't game changer? Livemint Are farm loan waivers really so bad? Livemint Why consumers should welcome GST? Business Line Hapless farmers and clueless policies Business Line

Jun 22, 2017 PIB

IASbaba Press Information Bureau (PIB) - 21st May to 28th May , 2017

IASbaba Press Information Bureau (PIB) – 21st May to 28th May 2017 ARCHIVES GS-2 Proposal to increase seats in Sikkim Legislative Assembly (Topic: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.) In 2016, SC had directed MHA to decision in matter of ‘Reservation of Seats for Limboo and Tamang community in Sikkim Legislative Assembly meetings. After consultations, it was decided that seats in SLA should be increased from 32 to 40 and provide 5 seats for Limboo and Tamang community. The proposal requires amendments to sec 7(1A) of RPA 1950 whereby total number of seats to be filled by persons chosen by direct elections shall have 40 members in place of existing 32 members. There will be amendments to second schedule to RPA 1950 where there will be 40 seats, reserving 5 for Limboo and Tamang while existing reservations of Bhutias, Lepchas, SCs and Sanghas. Section A of RPA 1951 will be amended to provide that, in case of a seat reserved for Limboo and Tamang tribe, he is to be member of Limboo and Tamang tribe specified in Representation of Sikkim subjects Act, 1974 and elector or an assembly constituency in state. SEWA App (Topics: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.) What: Ministry for Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy and Mines launched the Saral Eindhan Vitaran Application (SEVA) App. It is developed in-house by Coal India Limited (CIL) for power sector consumers. SEVA is a part of ‘Digital India’ initiative, which is aimed at increasing the Consumer Connect as well as the Transparency and Accountability in Coal dispatch. With this app, the common man would be able to hold the Government accountable for the coal linkage allocations and would be able to check any pilferage or inefficiencies in coal consumption for power generation. This would, in turn, lead to rationalization of coal linkages and finally reduction in the power prices in the country. In near future , non-power sector mines would also be added in this App. Software Procurement Policy (Topics: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.) What: The transformation under the overall Digital India initiative is creating huge opportunities for involvement of industry/private sector, mainly providers of IT/IT enabled systems and services. However, various concerns have been raised from time to time by the industry relating to their engagements (and contracts) with government funded projects. These issues include terms of payments, acceptance criteria, service level agreement and change management etc. Model RFP There was a need of a model RFP to guide all the organizations across governments, so as to avoid all variations, vagaries and uncertainties. Hence, a model RFP has been attempted based on intensive deliberations with the industry and other stakeholders. Major features Level playing field, to all stakeholders by defining appropriate pre-qualification and technical evaluation criterion. Aligning legal terms and conditions with the requirements of the IT Industry Template for scope of work and service level agreements Change request mechanisms Dispute resolution Standard contractual terms & conditions Standardization of Intellectual property rights Capping the liability, penalty and liquidated damages Making payment terms, objective and easier, for industry and Government Department Guidance on simplifying payment related conditions Incorporating the Exchange rate variations Converging Government schemes like Make in India / Preference for Domestically Manufactured Electronic Goods (PMA), provisions for Start-ups and MSMEs Leveraging latest technologies like cloud, mobiles, etc. Aligned with the General Financial Rule 2017 Adherence to the latest standards Digital India Corporation (Topics: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.) Digital India Corporation (DIC) will lead and guide in realizing the vision, objectives and goals of the Digital India program. It will provide the strategic support to Ministries/Departments of Centre/States for carrying forward the mission of Digital India by way of Capacity Building for e-Governance projects, promoting best practises, encouraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPP), nurturing innovation and technology in various domains. Broad responsibilities include Provide leadership and support to Government of India through MEITY Support MEITY in all its initiatives with policy and implementation related issues Support crafting progressive e-Governance strategies, to promote Accountability, Efficiency, Efficacy and Transparency. Source and make available specialized technically skilled manpower for hardware, software, networks, cyber security and laws, standards, quality and testing etc. In ICT domain to Ministries/Deptts Promote innovation and evolve models for empowerment of citizens Establish the National e-Governance Academy and to put in place an institutional mechanism for capacity building of government and its agencies GS-3 Dhola-Sadiya: A Bridge of New Hope for the North East (Topic: Infrastructure) Dhola- Sadiya Bridge in Assam is a 9.15 kilometre bridge built over river Lohit, a tributary of the Brahmaputra, linking Dhola to Sadiya in Assam. Till now, the only means to cross the Brahmaputra at this location has been by ferry only in day-time and even this is not possible during floods. The last bridge over the Brahmaputra was the Kalia Bhomora Bridge at Tejpur. The Dhola-Sadiya bridge will fill a huge connectivity gap that has existed in the region. The bridge will also reduce the distance from Rupai on NH- 37 in Assam to Meka/Roing on NH-52 in Arunachal Pradesh by 165 KM. The travel time between the two places will come down from the current six hours to just one hour – a total five hour reduction. This will result in saving of petrol and diesel worth Rs 10 Lakh per day.  

Jun 22, 2017 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs 22nd June, 2017

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 22nd June 2017 Archives INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 India and its neighborhood- relations. 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. Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. 20 years of BIMSTEC: Hopes and Apprehensions In news: On June 06 this year, the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) completed 20 years of its establishment. About BIMSTEC: Comprising of Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Nepal and Bhutan, BIMSTEC is home to 1.5 billion people, accounting for approximately 21 per cent of the world population, and a combined GDP of US$ 2.5 trillion. The growth rate sustained by the BIMSTEC countries is around six per cent per annum. Initially known as the Bangladesh-India-Sri Lanka-Thailand Economic Cooperation (BIST-EC), it was formed after representatives from the aforesaid four countries met at Bangkok in June 1997. With Myanmar joining the grouping as a full member in December the same year, the ‘BIST-EC’ was renamed as ‘BIMST-EC’. In February 2004, when Nepal and Bhutan too joined, the grouping was renamed as the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation or BIMSTEC. So far, BIMSTEC has held three summit meetings. The first one was held in Thailand in 2004, seven years after the establishment of the grouping; the second one was held four years later in India in 2008, and the third one six years later in Myanmar in 2014. The fourth summit meeting is expected to take place later this year in Nepal, the current Chair of BIMSTEC. Objectives: According to the June 1997 ‘Declaration on the Establishment of the Bangladesh-India-Sri Lanka-Thailand Economic Cooperation (BIST-EC)’, also known as the Bangkok Declaration, the founding objectives of the sub-regional initiative were: Creating an enabling environment for rapid economic development of the sub-region. Encouraging the spirit of equality and partnership, promoting active collaboration and mutual assistance in the areas of common interests of the member countries. Accelerating support for each other in the fields of education, science and technology, etc. Recent developments: Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in his message on the 20th anniversary of the establishment of BIMSTEC, described the sub-regional grouping as “a natural platform” to fulfill India’s “key foreign policy priorities of ‘Neighbourhood First’ and ‘Act East’”. Earlier in October 2016, India had hosted the BIMSTEC members at Goa during the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) Outreach Summit. It was viewed as a pragmatic step on India’s part, demonstrating its potential to play the role of a regional leader, an aspiration which was instrumental in transforming its ‘Look East’ into ‘Act East’ policy. The BRICS-BIMSTEC Outreach Summit is believed to have given BIMSTEC its due importance by inviting its members to participate in a larger platform comprising five major emerging economies of the world. Within few months of the Goa Summit, India hosted the first meeting of the BIMSTEC National Security Chiefs in New Delhi in March 2017. Potential of BIMSTEC: BIMSTEC provided opportunities to all its member countries For India, the establishment of BIMSTEC, was an opportunity, besides the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), to engage with Southeast Asia, at least partially. BIMSTEC provided scope for direct connectivity with Southeast Asia via Northeast India and Myanmar. Counter-terrorism and anti-insurgency cooperation with Myanmar and other members, potential access to alternative energy resources in Myanmar as well as economic opportunities available in the ASEAN region had evoked sufficient interest. Besides India, other members too considered it as an important mechanism to achieve their national goals and regional aspirations. Myanmar, for example, became a member at a time when the junta in the country was facing serious international criticism. Membership in regional and sub-regional groupings like ASEAN and BIMSTEC provided its military rulers an opportunity to gain some sort of recognition among the regional stakeholders. Thailand, on the other hand, was looking for an opportunity to enhance its trade and connectivity with the South Asian countries under the ambit of its ‘Look West’ policy. So, in a way, India’s ‘Look East’ and Thailand’s ‘Look West’ policy complemented each other within the ambit of BIMSTEC. The ongoing India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway and the India-Myanmar Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project are expected to further augment connectivity and economic cooperation in the sub-region and beyond. Countries like Sri Lanka considered BIMSTEC as an opportunity to engage with the economically booming Southeast Asian countries, especially after several failed attempts to join ASEAN in the decade prior to the establishment of BIMSTEC. For the land-blocked countries like Nepal and Bhutan, BIMSTEC holds the prospect of enhancing their connectivity with the rest of the region. Challenges: BIMSTEC does not seem to have made much progress. Despite its huge potential in terms of enhancing regional cooperation between parts of South and Southeast Asia, BIMSTEC has long suffered from lack of resources and proper coordination among its member states. India, the largest member of the grouping, has often been criticised for not providing a strong leadership to BIMSTEC. Both Thailand and Myanmar are criticised for having ignored BIMSTEC in favour of ASEAN. Absence of a permanent secretariat for a long time and lack of commitment to invest in several priority areas identified by the member states were seen as some of the key institutional factors holding the BIMSTEC back. It took 17 long years for BIMSTEC to finally establish its permanent secretariat in Dhaka in 2014. The ‘noodle bowl effect’ of regionalism too was at work as formation of another sub-regional initiative, the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) Forum, with the proactive membership of China, created more doubts about the exclusive potential of BIMSTEC. Renewed Interest: India has been clearly signaling its renewed interest in BIMSTEC. India is already the lead country for four priority sectors, namely, transportation and communication, environment and disaster management, tourism, and counter-terrorism and trans-national crime. In an effort to strengthen sub-regional cooperation on combating terrorism and trans-national crime, the BIMSTEC member states are trying to implement a convention on anti-terrorism. Except for Nepal and Bhutan, all member states of BIMSTEC have ratified it. BIMSTEC is now trying to sign a Convention on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters. Progress made in other sectors are- India hosting a working group meeting to finalise the BIMSTEC Motor Vehicles Agreement, finalisation of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Grid Interconnection to facilitate electricity trade in the sub-region, and a meeting of BIMSTEC Trade Negotiating Committee to fast-track the process of trade facilitation in the region. The declaration issued at the Goa Summit had also stated that BIMSTEC needs to have a Coastal Shipping Agreement to allow the member states to trade freely within the sub-region. It is noteworthy that between 2002 and 2014, the intra-BIMSTEC trade registered a very marginal growth, from 3.6 to 4.3 per cent only. A former Thai ambassador described it as a ‘complimentary organisation’ which can support the people in the region. Way ahead: For BIMSTEC to become an enabler of regional cooperation, it will have to evolve as an organisation that works through a bottom-up rather than a top-down approach. The people-centric approach seems to be the best as BIMSTEC seriously lags behind ASEAN and other regional organisations in terms of people-to-people contacts. Also, the organisation needs to focus on fewer priority areas for purpose of better implementation. It needs to undertake projects that are economically feasible and result-driven. This would add to the credibility of BIMSTEC. Finally, since the BIMSTEC region is notable for its diversity, the member states need to build on the regional synergies and work towards utilising the available resources in the most optimal manner. This would help build a stronger and a more dynamic BIMSTEC. Conclusion: In today’s context, the possibility of enhancing physical, digital and people-to-people connectivity in the sub-region is huge. Similarly, the potential to tap the vast energy resources and scope for intra-regional trade and investment too is enormous. BIMSTEC member nations must work on in a cooperative manner to take advantage of huge potential BIMSTEC offers. Connecting the dots: The year 2017 marked twenty years of BIMSTEC. Critically analyze the progress the grouping has made and elaborate on scope as well as challenges faced by the grouping. BIMSTEC as a sub-regional grouping provides tremendous scope for cooperation and growth for its member nations. However the grouping is yet to realise its true potential. Discuss.   ENVIRONMENT TOPIC: General Studies 3 Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Rivers as a living entity: Implications and Challenges Background: With a view to conserve the rivers Ganga and Yamuna, the Uttarakhand High Court in its March 20, 2017 judgement, declared the two rivers as living entities having status of legal persons and having all corresponding rights, duties and liabilities. The judgement also identified three officials as the human face to protect, preserve and conserve these rivers, who are bound to promote their health and well being. The court also observed that the rivers are the source of physical and spiritual sustenance of people from time immemorial, that these ‘rivers are breathing, living and sustaining the communities from mountains to sea’ and that such declaration as legal persons is needed to protect the faith in of society. Following this precedent, the Madhya Pradesh government also took a decision in May this year to declare river ‘Narmada’ as a living person with all attendant rights. Implications of the judgement: Post the High Court judgement, these two rivers can claim ‘right to life’ following the Fundamental Rights provisions of the Indian Constitution, and can theoretically enforce the same. An obvious implication is that the two rivers should not be irretrievably polluted. It is illegal now for anyone to "harm" these living entities. Now that they are considered 'living entities', Ganga, Yamuna, and their tributaries hold the same legal rights as a person. In the eyes of law, they will be seen as "a legal or juristic person". The ruling means that Ganga and Yamuna are essentially like minors -- incapable of holding or using the property -- and need to be placed under the care of a manager and/or a guardian. These caretakers will be responsible for ensuring the rivers are not misused, abused or misappropriated for personal use. Challenges: Providing a sustainable ecosystem is the need of the hour. The polluters who are liable to be sanctioned in court proceedings are however many: industrial units, municipal authorities, local bodies, millions of villages, and so on. This is definitely a vast challenge. There are millions of players who are involved. The industries and utilities of local bodies are the point sources of pollution and millions of farmers alongside the rivers are the non- point sources of pollution. The challenge before the policy makers is how to bring all the players on the same page for not polluting the rivers. For instance, the industrial units should discharge industrial effluents into rivers after proper treatment or even take steps for ‘Zero liquid discharge’ . The regulatory machinery for ensuring the same has weak capacity to deliver today. ‘Online data monitoring’ at sewage discharge points of an industrial unit or utility has been thought of, but its proper implementation is a big challenge. Similarly, in the case of local bodies, it is often difficult to prevent the municipal sewage from polluting the river water. In a country where open defecators pose the biggest challenge, absence of proper sewer network and subsequent non-treatment of municipal sewage, especially in urban areas, aggravate the problem in the context of polluting the river Ganga and Yamuna. In this context, the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan programme is a right step forward, but its lesser emphasis on faecal sludge management is a matter of concern. Several questions like- How can a river or its constituents, with no voice of their own, ensure such rights, or demand justice should they be violated? Who would be the beneficiary of compensatory action?- remains to be answered. As far as cleaning of rivers is concerned, there exists political will at least at the central level, but its absence has been noticed in all States through which the two rivers flow. Way out: Overall, the perception is that only governments are mandated or supposed to ensure clean rivers. The public at large, civil societies, and industrial stakeholders, are important stakeholders for achieving such objectives. And thus the civil society must come together to protect the rivers. Attention should also be given to reviewing the existing policy and legislative initiatives: for example, adoption and implementation of laws such as the Uttarakhand Flood Zoning Act 2012 by the participating States would also help in restoring the health of the rivers by creating ‘room’ for them. Conclusion: Nevertheless, the Uttarakhand court’s judgement is an important step in the right direction for ensuring clean rivers. Its time policy makers, civil society and more importantly central and state administration fall in line. Connecting the dots: Discuss the implications of Uttarakhand High Court judgment declaring River Ganga as a living entity. Also elaborate on challenges in ensuring clean rivers. Also Read: Rivers as a living being MUST READ A moment for realism Hindu The high cost of ageing Hindu Mental health and the university Hindu Jailing a judge Hindu If Donald Trump-Narendra Modi talk climate Indian Express The moral retreat Indian Express Bans- Do they work at all? Livemint Avoid the temptation to overregulate telecom Livemint Advancing cooperation in higher education Livemint India's increasing green growth Livemint India's high logistics cost Business Line

Jun 22, 2017 RSTV Video

The Big Picture - Importance of Modi-Merkel Meet in the Changing Global Scene

Importance of Modi-Merkel meet in the changing global scene Archives 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 PM of India recently signed eight major agreements with German Chancellor. India is looking at outcome oriented momentum at India-Germany ties and quantum jump especially in economic ties. German Chancellor has long cultivated relations with India and stresses that Germany and EU must compete with new emerging economic giants. She has also said that Germany cannot completely depend on traditional allies like USA and Britain in age of new US president and Brexit. Importance of India and Germany today The people of both nations have displayed that desires of both governments is to develop ‘middle power cooperation’. It is a time when USA is becoming unpredictable and China more assertive, and hence a lot of other countries in middle are thinking of stepping up into gaps created. Germany is the most powerful and wealthiest of the EU nations and India being dominant player in South Asia and Indian Ocean region are looking to work with each other more intently. Germany needs to look elsewhere apart from traditional allies. It has also mentioned that china insisted Germany to endorse OBOR initially and then later on disagree with certain agreements. Trade and investment- India and Germany are a win-win proposition for both countries by coming together in several of initiatives taken by GoI like Make in India, Skill India, Smart cities, infrastructure, Digital India etc. where Germany has great competence. There have been problems between two nations regarding bilateral trade and investment negotiations which started in 2007. At that time, it was thought to conclude negotiations in two years. But they are still on. Thus, there is a need to conclude these agreements as soon as possible considering the fact that both the nations now need each other to develop themselves. Bilateral investment treaties have also been cancelled by India and new draft submitted by India is not found acceptable by EU. Hence, these critical aspects of trade relations between two nations need an energetic boost. However, now India has initiated reforms with GST, bankruptcy code, is also a largest recipient of FDI and its fast growing nature economy. This will help developed countries to look at India as an attractive investment destination. At present, 1600 German companies are working in India and 60 joint ventures with India. 25 working groups are operational. With their interactions and deliberations, there is a lot of potential in future. The investment opportunities are also high in India. The German MSMEs had traditionally five radius mile concept which they have not looked beyond. This can provided fillip to develop the relationship. Also, uncertainty about America can be motivation for Germany. Security France, UK, Germany have suffered from terrorist attacks and India has been a victim of terrorism. Thus, there is a need for two countries to cooperate and collaborate to deal with the menace of terrorism. Strategic partnership As Germany gets disillusioned with Trump’s America, it is looking around for partners. India has also been looking around for development and sustainable partners since a while and is closely related to Japan, Australia etc. Thus, it is an opportunity where middle powers can get together. India and Germany have been on same wavelength, whether it is about Indian Ocean region, South China Sea, in terms of freedom of avigation, importance of award by UNCLOS. A strategic relations doesn’t exist for now between both countries. Take for example Japan. Japan has now made a committed official decision across its parties and government to try and build up India as an economy and as an Asian power for strategic reasons. It is for them about balancing china and other issues. They are investing millions of dollars to build infrastructure, develop projects with India in third countries, Japanese companies have come here even if not making a profit. Germany in many ways is similar to Japan- WWII legacy, has a pacifist constitution, generally being reluctant to play global role. Thus, Germany can also follow the footsteps of Japan or walk on similar lines. With Germany, Indian government is hoping to transform the relation. Germany is sceptical about India somewhere as India is a reluctant free trader. Due to large population and need to create jobs, many times India has taken two steps forward and one step backward. This is the reason why RCEP has not yet borne fruit. The concept of proving jobs, getting up the manufacturing ladder from 17-18% to 25% etc. is finding a difficult terrain in India. If the markets will be opened, then Make in India project will suffer the most. Thus, there are all these issues to deal with. China is more attractive as far as Europe is concerned. Germany was never really interested in India and India had own problems in region. Now, going forward, India has an opportunity to develop a partnership with Germany. The OBOR initiative has been termed as ‘new colonial enterprise’ as it is sino-centric road arrangement. It means that all belts and all roads lead to china. Climate change With US withdrawing from it, India and China are looked as future strong partners to uphold the paris agreement. India has ambitious programmes in renewable energy. In this area, India and Germany have a bright future. German companies are looking forward to India’s large market with USA and China’s stand on globalisation. Germany in India The paradox of indo-German relationship has been, despite hardly any political problems, the trade remains modest at 17 billion USD whereas with China it is 10times. This limits the degree of interest which Germany has on the trade and economic front. The Germans are keen to have government to government defence procurement agreement like with France. But with India there are certain challenges- The Germans have been reticent in transfer of technology Offset clause The German export control regime which has statutory restrictions about transfer of weaponry to conflict prone areas. Civil nuclear cooperation Nuclear safety is an area where both countries can have equal cooperation with each other. Conclusion The relevance and importance of Germany has grown in the eyes of India considering the state of EU today. German chancellor has bright prospect in winning the election. Indian PM has tried to give a nudge to India-EU FTA but it is still not moved forward. But there are positive hopes in the direction as Germany and India are both in favour of globalisation and keeping trade open. Indo-German development is more of an incremental type of progress than transformative.  In the era of unspecified times, all the major players are simultaneously engaging all major players. Each relationship is going to have its own dynamism and momentum. With Germany, it is important to maintain slow and steady consolidation and keep on emphasising that India is a strong opportunity. Connecting the dots: India and Germany have been not natural partners but they have immense opportunity to grow together in the present times considering the global scenario in regarding various aspects. Discuss the potential growth areas for both the nations.

Jun 21, 2017 PIB

IASbaba Press Information Bureau (PIB)- 14th May to 21st May , 2017

IASbaba Press Information Bureau 14th May to 20th May 2017 ARCHIVES GS-1 Namami Narmade - Narmada Sewa Yatra (Topic: Distribution of key natural resources across the world (including South Asia and the Indian sub-continent)) What: it is a yatra which was organised from December 11, 2016 to May 15, 2017 in Madhya Pradesh along the banks of Narmada river. Objective To increase awareness about the need for conservation of river Narmada and sustainable use of its resources. Plantation at the banks of river Narmada for protection of riparian zone and reduction in soil erosion. To suggest remedial action in the field of river conservation and promotion of eco friendly agricultural practices. To identify various sources of river pollution and to resolve the same through public awareness and participation. Activities Involves organizing public meetings, seminars, plantation drives etc and focus on increasing awareness on sanitation, promotion of organic farming, reduction in pollution and conservation of the riparian zone of Narmada. Narmada Narmada is the largest river of Madhya Pradesh State. It originates from Amarkantak Narmada flows from east to west and merges with the Arabian Sea near Surat city in Gujarat. GS-2 Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty Related Measures to Prevent Base Erosion and Profit Shifting by India (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) What: The Union Cabinet has given its approval for the Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty Related Measures to Prevent Base Erosion and Profit Shifting. Why needed: The Convention is an outcome of the OECD / G20 BEPS Project to tackle base erosion and profit shifting through tax planning strategies that exploit gaps and mismatches in tax rules to artificially shift profits to low or no-tax locations where there is little or no economic activity, resulting in little or no overall corporate tax being paid. Background India was part of the Ad Hoc Group of more than 100 countries and jurisdictions from G20, OECD, BEPS associates and other interested countries, which worked on an equal footing on the finalization of the text of the Multilateral Convention. The Convention implements two minimum standards relating to prevention of treaty abuse and dispute resolution through Mutual Agreement Procedure. The Convention will not function in the same way as an Amending Protocol to a single existing treaty. Instead it will be applied alongside existing tax treaties, modifying their application in order to implement the BEPS measures. Significance Signing of the Multilateral Convention will enable the application of BEPS outcomes through modification of existing tax treaties of India in a swift manner. It is also in India's interest to ensure that all its treaty partners adopt the BEPS anti-abuse outcomes. Amendment to Public Premises (Eviction of Unauthorized Occupants) Act, 1971 (Topics: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.) What: A definition of 'residential accommodation occupation' will be inserted. The Amendment will enable the Estate officer to apply summary proceedings for evicting unauthorised occupants from residential accommodations allotted for a fixed tenure or for a period he/she holds office on the basis of an order of allotment on licence basis, as non-vacation of such residences leads to unavailability of houses to new incumbents. So, now, the Estate Officer can make such inquiry as he deems expedient in the circumstances of the case. The amendment will thus facilitate smooth and speedy eviction of unauthorised occupants from government residences. As a consequence to these amendments, Government of India can now ensure that the unauthorised occupants are evicted from government residence in a speedy and smooth manner and the vacated accommodations are made available to eligible Govt. employees thus reducing the waiting period. Background: The Government of India has to evict unauthorized occupants from Government accommodations under the provisions of PPE Act, 1971. However, the eviction proceedings take unusually long time, thereby reducing the availability of govt. accommodations to new incumbents. Innovate in India (Topics: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.) What: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval for Industry-Academia Collaborative Mission for accelerating discovery research to early development for biopharmaceuticals - "Innovate in India (13) empowering biotech entrepreneurs & accelerating inclusive innovation" to be funded by the Government of India. It will be implemented by Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) - a Public Sector Undertaking of Department of Biotechnology (DBT). The key focus areas of the program would aid in preparing India's technological and product development capabilities in the biopharmaceutical sector to a level that it is globally competitive over the next 10-15 years and will transform the health standards of India's population through affordable product development. Focus: on vaccines, biotherapeutics, medical devices and diagnostics; establishment of shared infrastructure and facilities etc. Background The National Biotechnology Development Strategy 2015-2020 announced by the DBT lays emphasis on making India ready to meet the challenge of achieving US $100 billion biotech industry by 2025. The focus is on generation of biotech products, processes and technologies for affordable and accessible health care, promoting innovation R&D, establishing India as world class bio-manufacturing hub, and building the required skilled workforce. For this, it is important to promote industry -academia interface and enable the start-ups and small and medium enterprises to build translational innovation research capacities for affordable healthcare product development. Standard Operating Procedure for cases of Missing Children developed by WCD Ministry (Topics: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.) What: Ministry of Women and Child Development has developed a Standard Operating Procedure for tracing of missing children as per SC’s direction in the case of Bachpan Bachao Andolan v. Union of India & Ors Why: SC court had observed that there are many Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) developed by States to trace out missing children and therefore directed Ministry of WCD to compile a model SOP which may be used by all States/UTs to deal with cases of missing children. The SOP for tracing of missing children is finalized in consonance with the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Model Rules 2016. The objectives of the Standard Operating Procedure are to work in coordination with stakeholders and respond with urgency to issues of missing child; create awareness and basic understanding of key concepts pertaining to missing children, child vulnerability and child protection etc. Tracking of missing children is the primary responsibility of Police. The SOP clearly defines role of an Investigating officer. Chitale Committee (Topics: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.) What: Chitale committee on Desiltation of Ganga has recommended a slew of measures which include Study of reach wise sediment transport processes Establishing annual sediment budgets to guide de-silting activities Preparation of annual reports (sand registry) describing the previous de-silting/ dredging activity A technical institute to conduct the sediment budget, morphological and flood routing studies that would examine and confirm the necessity of the de-silting of the reach under consideration. Background The committee was constituted in July 2016 by the Ministry of Water Resources River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation It was to prepare guidelines for desiltation of river Ganga from Bhimgauda (Uttarakhand) to Farakka (West Bengal). The committee was asked to establish difference between desilting and sand mining and also to establish need for desilting for ecology and e-flow of the river Ganga. What committee says? Erosion, sediment transport and siltation are very complex phenomena. It is impossible to apply a “one-size-fits-all‟ approach to sediment management and control, because the issues involved are frequently very regionally-specific. Local factors such as topography, river control structures, soil and water conservation measures, tree cover, and riparian land-use or land disturbance (for example agriculture, mining, etc.) can have a large impact on sediment loads in rivers. River control structures (such as reservoirs), soil conservation measures and sediment control programmes can cause downstream sediment loads to decrease, while factors such as land disturbance (clearing of vegetation, for example) or agricultural practices can cause increased sediment loads. Indiscriminate de-siltation works may result into more harm to ecology and environment flow. Thus, there is a need to evolve Guidelines, better broad principles, while planning and implementing de-silting works. Ganga Sediment transport and siltation in large rivers like Ganga are very complex phenomena and their estimation has inherent limitations and uncertainties. Sedimentation is mainly seen downstream of Bhimgauda barrage and near the confluences of tributary rivers with Ganga. The discharge congestion, large scale sediment deposition and its negative effects are mainly seen downstream of the confluence of Ghagra and beyond. The river flood plain drastically widens beyond the confluence of Ghagra and is estimated to be around 12 to 15 kms. Is it beneficial? Though de-siltation works can improve hydraulic performance of the river, these have no direct role in improving environment flow in the river. On the other hand, indiscriminate de-silting or sand mining would cause adverse impacts on river e-flow. Basic principles of siltation in rivers: Catchment Area Treatment and Watershed Development works, along with good agricultural practices and river bank protection/anti-erosion works, are necessary to reduce silt inflow into the river system Erosion, movement and deposition of sediment are natural regulating functions of river and Sediment equilibrium of river should be maintained. Rivers should be provided with sufficient flood plains (lateral connectivity) without any hindrance to the flow. Instead of “keeping the silt away”, strategy to “giving the silt way” should be adopted. GS-3 Integrated bio-solar-wind Microgrid centre (Topic: indigenization of technology and developing new technology.) In news: President of India inaugurated a Bio-Solar-Wind Micro grid Centre and Centre for Water and Environment Research at Indian Institute of Engineering Science & Technology (IIEST), Shibpur, West Bengal. It is one of the first few higher learning centres to be established in the country. Since its existence, it has been imparting high quality education in the field of civil and mechanical engineering. Objective: the bio-solar-wind microgrid centre is set up to ensure that electricity is available for ordinary people, and it is also crucial from the perspective of socio-economic development. Rationale- in present-day circumstances, energy availability has become uncertain as there is rising demand for power of various consuming centres such as industry, household, etc. Thus, a micro-management of power system using renewable energy sources will lead to self-sufficiency in high consuming destinations like institutions and industry. Importance: India, being a signatory to the Paris Agreement, must emphasise on renewable energy to ensure sustainable development. States adjoining China (Topic: Security challenges and their management in border areas) In news: Central Assistance for Border Area Development Programmes (BADP) has been enhanced. Indo-China border is undemarcated, extremely cold with very difficult terrain and thus it is more important that impetus should be given to boost up infrastructure and peace in the border areas. Indian states bordering China Jammu and Kashmir Himachal Pradesh Uttarakhand Sikkim Arunachal Pradesh

Jun 21, 2017 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs 21st June, 2017

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 21st June 2017 Archives INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:  General studies 2: India and its neighborhood- relations. 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. Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. Land garb by China in Himalayan region Introduction: China has been effectively using its civilians and consequently army troops to further its expansion into the Indian soil. Bite by kilometre-size bite, China is eating away at India’s Himalayan borderlands. From Shyok, the northernmost border village in the sector where China has been the most aggressive -- the latest reported aggression was in April this year in which they grabbed further some 30 kms of the Indian territory. On average, China launches one stealth incursion into India every 24 hours. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is actively intruding into vacant border space with the objective of occupying it. And according to a former top official with India’s Intelligence Bureau, India has lost nearly 2,000 sq. km to PLA encroachments over the last decade. Use of civilian resources for garbing territory: The strategy underlying China’s actions is remarkable. On land, like at sea, China uses civilian resources—herders, farmers and grazers—as the tip of the spear. Once civilians settle on contested land, army troops gain control of the disputed area, paving the way for the establishment of more permanent encampments or observation posts. Similarly, in the South China Sea, China’s naval forces follow fishermen to carve out space for the reclamation of rocks or reefs. In both theatres, China has deployed no missiles, drones or bullets to advance its objectives. It is indeed remarkable how without firing a bullet China is meeting its objectives. Although Chinese aggression in the South China Sea has garnered criticism and warnings both from the United States and International Court while the same cannot be said for its aggression on the land. China’s land expansion has gone unnoticed. India's response: China’s non-violent terrestrial aggression has garnered less opposition than its blue-water ambition, which has been challenged by the US under international law. Indian leaders have at times even seemed to condone China’s actions. During a recent panel discussion in Russia, for example, Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that although China and India are at odds over borders, it was remarkable that “in the last 40 years, not a single bullet has been fired because of [it].” Issues the border people face: The people feel utterly abandoned by the governments -- state as well as the central. Widespread sense of deprivations at the absence of the most basic necessities of life gets painfully accentuated at the stark contrast with the amenities visible a stone's throw across the border in Tibet where they seem to have everything -- hospitals, schools, network of excellent roads, 24x7 electricity and mobile phones with robust connectivity. Since the land grabs by China seems unstoppable and India is perceived indifferent, the border people are having wrenching doubts over India's commitment to them and its territorial integrity. Having seen their land being steadily gobbled by China without any resistance, the border people have begun suspecting their sense of nationhood. The on going loss of land and livelihood has also drastically altered the people's perception of our troops. Unaware of the intricacies of the game between Delhi and Beijing, their pride in the own troops is palpably eroded because they believe they are 'weak' and ‘coward'. Instead of providing them with a sense of security and comfort, the troops often harass and gratuitously punish the villagers in the guise of enforcing the Indian customs law. According to the villagers while the Chinese troops let them reach the market and buy the goods without let or hindrance, Indian troops harass them and do not spare even women carrying tea in China made flasks to their menfolk. The nearest Indian market is at Leh, a long week away. For many it is way beyond their reach. Profits added, the goods are costlier than the Chinese markets across the border. Reasons behind increase in China's territorial assertiveness: The People’s Liberation Army, the armed forces of the Communist Party of China, is highly active at the border. They seek ways to intrude into the vacant Indian territory with the intention of occupation. China’s fast-growing trade surplus with India, which has doubled to almost $60 billion, has increased Chinese President Xi Jinping’s territorial assertiveness. Since there is no clear distinction between the Indian territory and the Chinese territory, any incursion by Chinese troops into India is justified by the Chinese as PLA operating on their land. They promised to exchange maps with India in 2001 but that promise was never met. By acquiescing on bilateral trade—the dumping of Chinese-made steel on the Indian market is just one of many examples—India has inadvertently helped foot the bill for the PLA’s encirclement strategy. Indian border police patrolling the area don’t even carry weapons. With such a docile response, China has been able to do as it pleases along India’s northern frontier. China’s support of the Pakistani military, whose forces often fire at Indian troops along the disputed Kashmir frontier, should be viewed in this light. Way out: India needs to adopt a different strategy, having been on the defensive stance for so many years. PM Modi’s narrative of border peace is not as strong to deter the plans of PLA or China. India has failed to deter China and it is crucial for the Indian government to adopt a new stance so as to counter the aggression. China has become more assertive, underscoring the need for a new Indian containment strategy. We need to abandon the platitudes. Modi’s calls for border peace and tranquillity might be sincere, but his tone has made India look like a meek enabler. A more regionally integrated Indian economy would serve as a counterweight to China’s territorial expansion. India should also beef up its border security forces to become a more formidable barrier to the PLA. India’s under-resourced Indo-Tibetan Border Police, under the command of the home ministry, needs training and equipping, and placing them under the command of the army. This would signal to China that the days of an open door are over. Strengthening the border police exploring the vast number of economic opportunities will send a powerful message to China Conclusion: The PLA began honing its “salami tactics” in the Himalayas in the 1950s, when it sliced off the Switzerland-size Aksai Chin plateau. Later, China inflicted a humiliating defeat on India in the 1962 border war, securing peace, as a state mouthpiece crowed in 2012, on its own terms. Today, China pursues a “cabbage” approach to borders, cutting off access to an adversary’s previously controlled territory and gradually surrounding it with multiple civilian and security layers. Against this backdrop, the true sign of Himalayan peace will not be the holstering of guns, but rather the end of border incursions. India’s accommodating approach has failed to deter China. To halt further encroachments, India will need to bare its own teeth. Ending these incursions should be of prime importance to India if it wants Himalayan Peace. Self-praising that there have been no bullets from either side does not amount to India’s borders being secured. Connecting the dots: A recent study highlights how China is grabbing India's territory across Himalayan borders. Discuss the strategy used by China and how India hasn't responded to such territorial assertiveness effectively. China in recent times has grown more and more assertive both on land and sea. Discuss how India can contain China in this regard. NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 1: Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues Social empowerment General studies 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, irrigation, agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers. Women farmers in India needs attention Feminisation of Indian agriculture: Higher paying jobs in the city in combination with high tax on agriculture drew men from their farms into cities, hunting for well-paid jobs. This kind of migration of men leaves the woman in charge of the farm and household. The share of female labour in the agricultural workforce increased from 39.2% to 41.9% during the period 1999-2000 and 2004-05. India’s agricultural industry, which employs 80 to 100 million women, cannot survive without the labour of women farmers. From preparing the land, selecting seeds, preparing and sowing to transplanting the seedlings, applying manure/fertilisers/pesticides and then harvesting, winnowing and threshing, women work harder and longer than male farmers. Maintaining the ancillary branches in this sector, like animal husbandry, fisheries and vegetable cultivation, depends almost solely on women. Almost all women in rural India today can be considered as 'farmers' in some sense, working as agricultural labour, unpaid workers in the family farm enterprise, or the combination of the two. Moreover, several farm activities traditionally carried out by men are also being undertaken by women as men are pulled away into higher paying employment. Thus, rural India is witnessing a process of feminisation of agriculture. Issues related to women farmers: Women are usually not listed as primary earners and owners of land assets within their families. So getting loans, participating in mandi panchayats, assessing and deciding the crop patterns, liaising with the district officials, bank managers and political representatives and bargaining for MSPs (minimum support prices), loans and subsidies, remain male activities. Weaknesses in women's rights to land also results in the inability to use land as collateral to obtain credit that is crucial to the purchase of inputs such as seeds and fertilisers. This, in turn, limits adoption of new technology. Unlike male farmers and cultivators, their female counterparts remained doubly burdened during their peak productive period with their reproductive role seen as fundamental to their gender. So even as women laboured in fields, they continued to have and rear children almost single-handedly. In many regions of the developing world, women spend up to five hours a day gathering fuel wood and water and up to 4 hours preparing food. This cuts short time on child care. Women possess traditional knowledge of agriculture and they often possess unique knowledge about livestock, fish and many conventional aspects of farming. But, in many organised activities, women are left behind in the up-gradation of their knowledge and skills. FAO study conducted recently found that women in developing countries contributed about 80% towards food production but received only 2% to 10% of the extension services (FAO, 1998). Agricultural extension agents are a critically important source of technology information to women farmers, given the generally lower levels of education of women compared to men. Yet, the UNEP (United Nations Environment Programme) in 1988 reported that less than 1 per cent of government-employed agricultural advisers in Asia and West Asia are women. India has one of the largest agricultural research and education systems in the world with an estimated stock of about three lakh graduates in the year 2010, out of which about 25 per cent are women (Rama Rao et al, 2011). But women presence is negligible in high-level decision-making bodies, advisory boards and national academies. agricultural education and work places sensitive to women's needs Women farmers are not given many benefits and do not hold social connections such as credit or market networks. They are even denied irrigation rights because that is provided by the government only to those male farmers who have agreed to grow commercial cash crops on their land and women, on the other hand, use the irrigation water for household use and also to grow subsistence crops. Women working on fields, alongside their husbands, aren’t considered farmers per say, and therefore suicides committed by women are rarely considered farmer suicides, thus leaving them out from benefitting from the government schemes. Way out: The Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations stress upon the increasing access to many inputs to productive agriculture, including credit, education and land, and at the same time, promote the development of rural female farmers’ organisations. Updating the legal codes to give women the legal rights of property ownership and credit, which can allow for increased food security. Mechanisation of agriculture: Rapid urbanisation and increased participation of women in the labour force makes a great demand on women's time. This calls for developing technology which relieve women of ``time burdens'' in agricultural production and maintenance without sacrificing their ability to earn independent incomes. Employing women agricultural extension workers is particularly important in societies which forbid the interaction of women farmers with men agricultural extension agents. Conclusion: In spite of the best efforts, the programmes aimed at women fail to realise the desired goals as they are rarely designed and managed by women. This is one of the serious concerns of social planners. Women can play a significant role in agriculture related activities if they are provided relevant education and training. The educated and trained women in agriculture can provide extension services as well as can help in transfer of technologies to the farm women. Connecting the dots: Feminisation of Indian agriculture is taking place. Discuss the reasons. Also critically analyze the challenges faced by women farmers in India and elaborate on steps required so as to improve the present scenario. MUST READ We habe to keep the door open for possibilities Hindu   Bringing GM on the table Hindu American voyage Hindu Journey of Ramnath Kovind Indian Express The final frontier Indian Express Bad for health Indian Express Clean energy can cement Indo-US ties Livemint Charting the Indian banking sector's future Livemint Pushing ahead Business Line Deposit insurance needs an overhaul Business Line The road ahead for India-Nepal relations Business Line

Jun 21, 2017 Important Articles

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