Jun 13, 2016 PIB

IASbaba Press Information Bureau (PIB)- 23rd May to 29th May, 2016

ARCHIVES   Dv Sadananda Gowda highlights achievements/initiatives of Ministry of Law & Justice in last two years    GS 3 – Indian economy and issues of development   Initiatives towards Ease of Doing Business To ensure speedy and fair disposal of commercial disputes, a new Act namely, the Commercial Courts, Commercial Division and Commercial Appellate Division of High Courts Act 2015 has been enacted by Parliament. It is Government’s endeavour to make India an investor friendly destination and enhance its ranking in Ease of Doing Business. The Arbitration and Conciliation Act, 1996 has been amended to make Arbitration as preferred mode for settlement of commercial disputes by making it more user-friendly, cost effective, leading to expeditious disposal of cases. This Bill was pending before the Government since 2003. Initiatives towards better management of litigation Draft National Litigation Policy is under formulation to make Government a responsible and efficient litigant. The Draft National Litigation Policy shall facilitate in bringing down unwarranted litigation. For proper monitoring of the pending court cases of the entire Government of India, a web portal Legal Information and Management Based System (LIMBS) has been set up. 19 Law Officers (including AG/SG) and 34 ASGs in High Courts have been appointed. Fresh panels of Counsels were approved for Supreme Court/High Courts/Central Administrative Tribunals/Armed Forces Tribunal/District Courts/Armed Forces Tribunal. Fee revision of Law Officers and Legal Counsels was upwardly revised to the extent of 50% from the rates existing prior to 1.10.2015. Initiatives towards Minimum Government Maximum Governance Four Acts have been enacted to repeal the obsolete and redundant laws. In total the aforesaid four enactments have repealed 1175 Acts. This exercise was taken up after 14 years, earlier being taken up only in the year 2001. Major exercise for convergence of Tribunals to reduce the number of tribunals is being carried out. High level Inter-Ministerial Group has been constituted for consideration of the issue. Initiatives towards digital India and e-Governance A major change has been introduced to receive applications for appointment of Notaries online along with supporting documents w.e.f. 1.1.2016. e-Governance and E-courts usage have started in Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT) leading to faster disposal of cases with less hassles to litigants. Digitisation work of Appeals has been undertaken in ITAT. Once the digitisation work is complete, all the appellate records shall be accessible from any station and any appeal can be taken by e-court in any location. Web portal named LIMBS has been introduced for centrally monitoring cases of UoI pending in various courts and Tribunals. Initiatives towards Computerisation of Courts eCourts Mission Mode Project has been taken up for universal computerization of district and subordinate courts with an objective of providing designated services to litigants, lawyers and the judiciary. During the first two years of NDA rule i.e. 2014-15 and 2015-16, Rs.212.23 cr were released to various States for eCourts projects against Rs.122.41cr released during UPA-II rule for the years 2012-13 and 2013-14, thus, registering an increase of 73.4%. eCourts Phase-II projects aims at automation of workflow management, enabling the courts to exercise greater control in management of cases. This will also include installation of touch screen based kiosks, use of e-filing, e-payment and mobile applications and composite set of services through Judicial Service centres. Case status information in respect of over 6.11 crore pending, decided cases and more than 2.4 crore orders/judgements pertaining to District and Subordinate Courts are available online. Over 4000 court officials and 14000 Judicial Officers have been trained on computerization of Laptops have been provided to 14,309 judicial officers. Initiatives towards Justice Delivery Appointment of Judges in higher judiciary has been undertaken.  86 additional Judges were made permanent, 51 new judges were appointed and appointment of another 170 is being processed Judges’ sanctioned strength of the High Courts has been increased from 906 on 01.06.2014 to 1065 as on 27.4.2016. In the case of District/Subordinate Courts, the sanctioned strength has been increased from 17,715 at the end of 2012 to 20,502 in December, 2015. Pecuniary jurisdiction of Delhi High Court has been increased from Rs. 20 lakhs to Rs. 2 crore, facilitating access to justice within the vicinity of the location of District Courts. Department of Justice has been implementing a Centrally Sponsored Scheme for Development of Infrastructure Facilities for Judiciary. On account of concerted efforts by all stakeholders, the availability of judicial infrastructure for subordinate courts has increased considerably in the recent past. Initiatives towards Access to Justice Projects 300 Paralegal Volunteers of Odisha, 400 Para Legal Volunteers of North Eastern States and 187 Para Legal Volunteers of J&K have been trained under the activities of State Legal Services Authorities. Legal literacy has been incorporated into National Literacy Mission Authority (NLMA) and activities have been started in States- 62 Districts of Uttar Pradesh and 31 Districts of Rajasthan. Helpdesks for Juveniles in Observation Homes have been established in Maharashtra. 50 voice based Legal Information Kiosks have been established in the State of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand. 46 Legal Aid Clinics have been established in two most backward districts of Nagaland – Tuensang and Mon. MoU has been signed between Department of Justice and NLMA (National Literacy Mission Authority) for initiating legal literacy activities by SRC Assam, Shillong, J&K and Arunachal Pradesh.   Smt Maneka Sanjay Gandhi Launches Common Application Software and ICT enabled Real Time Monitoring System of ICDS    GS 2 – Scheme for vulnerable section The new software will revolutionize the monitoring of service delivery of anganwadi centres since anganwadi workers had to earlier fill 11 registers which was a cumbersome task. It is for the first time since anganwadis started that we have started collecting data and accessing it easily, .Help improve service delivery by Aanganwadi workers (AWWs) by introduction of mobile technology Provide real-time information on service delivery at Aanganwadi Centers and on growth and nutrition status of children. Assist in growth monitoring and promotion; and impacting delivery of nutrition and health services Enable to employ timely interventions wherever and whenever required and to prioritize and direct the interventions needed to improve the nutritional status in specific geographies. Auto generation of ICDS registers that are currently compiled manually by Aanganwadi workers and help ICDS staff save time in data entry into multiple registers, thereby enabling them to channelize more time on delivering ICDS services including increased focus on counseling Help in reaching out to all the beneficiaries in time. Support the Aanganwadi worker’s job through in-built counseling aids, alerts and auto plotting of graphs and due lists Aid collection of real-time data enabling supportive supervision and timely intervention by the department officials   Reforms in Major Ports to promote “Ease of doing Business”  GS 3 – Indian economy The Ministry of Shipping in the past year has taken up several initiatives to promote trade and improve India’s ranking in the “Trading Across Borders’ indicator of World Bank’s Doing Business Report. Following steps have been taken by the Ministry to facilitate ease of doing business: From manual to electronic interface: Form 11&13 in manual form have been eliminated at all three terminals at JNPT and replaced by web based e-form-13, which is now done electronically. Apart from JNPT, other Major Ports are also using electronic forms. Accommodation for laboratories of regulatory agencies within port premises: The Ministry has issued instructions to all Major Ports to facilitate and provide land area for setting up of laboratories for animal/ plant quarantine, for textile and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI). Implementation of Direct Port Delivery Scheme: - The Ministry has directed all Major Ports to extend the Direct Port Delivery facility to all Accredited Client Programme (ACP) clients and to provide additional land area for parking of DPD containers. Reduction in Fee and Charges for non peak hours in all Ports: In order to decongest Major Port, the Ministry has taken up the issue of reduction of fee and charges with Tariff Authority for Major Ports to issue direction to all Major Ports/ BOT Operators operating there at, to fix separate lower charges for cargo and vessels related services and also give a special discount for the services rendered to exporter and importers after regular hours. Installation of container scanners at Major Ports:  Indian Port Association has been asked to undertake the process of procurement of the scanners based on the specifications received from CBEC. IPA has already initiated the process and the work order for the procurement shall be issued by November, 2016. Automation of Issuance of Delivery Orders: All the Shipping Lines (31) at JNPT are compliant with E-Delivery capability and implemented issuance of E-Delivery Orders. Other Major Ports were also directed to implement of issuance of E-delivery Orders Implementation of RFID Scheme for gate automation: All the Major Ports are in process of implementing RFID Gate Automation System Measures to remove congestion at ports on war footing: To remove  bottlenecks in rail/ road connectivity (like widening of roads, development of parking areas) for faster evacuation of cargo, all Major Ports have been directed to take necessary corrective measures. JNPT has taken the following measures in this regard: (i)         Development of Parking Areas: JNPT has undertaken development of Centralized       Parking Plaza covering 45 hectares area which can accommodate about 2000 Tractor/ Trailers (TTs). (ii)        Widening of Roads: The Y junction is widened on BPCL side about 3000 Sq. Mtrs. for smooth traffic movement at junction. This year the concretization of this junction has also been taken up which will start after monsoon. Roads from Y junction to JNP CFS, CFS junction to SH-54 and Karal junction to CFS junction have been widened. (iii)       Inter-Terminal movement of trailers:-  Inter Terminal transfer of TTs between JNPCT & GTI and between JNPCT & NSICT has already started. India & USA Signs MoU To Enhance Cooperation on Energy Security, Clean Energy & Climate Change  GS 3 – Environment conservation The objective of the MoU is to enhance cooperation on energy security, clean energy and climate change through increased bilateral engagement and further joint initiatives for promoting sustainable growth. These activities are intended to increase incentives for innovation including research and development, and voluntary and mutually-agreed technology transfer, as well as the deployment of clean energy technologies in both countries; contribute to a global effort to curb the rise in greenhouse gas emissions; and enhance resilience to the impacts of climate change. The Priority initiatives under the MoU would be:US-India Energy smart Cities Partnership b. Greening the Grid. c. Promoting Energy Access through Clean Energy (PEACE) expansion d. Energy Efficiency including space cooling e. Renewable energy. f. Energy security. g. Clean energy finance h. U.S-India partnership for Climate Resilience i. Air quality j. Forestry, Landscapes and REDD+ k. Fellowships l. Accelerating innovation on clean energy and climate change   National Capital Goods Policy  GS – 3 Indian economy It is the first ever policy for Capital Goods sector with a clear objective of increasing production of capital goods from Rs.2,30,000 crore in 2014-15 to Rs.7,50,000 crore in 2025 and raising direct and indirect employment from the current 8.4 million to 30 million. The policy envisages increasing exports from the current 27 percent to 40 percent of production. It will increase the share of domestic production in India’s demand from 60 percent to 80 percent thus making India a net exporter of capital goods. The policy also aims to facilitate improvement in technology depth across sub-sectors, increase skill availability, ensure mandatory standards and promote growth and capacity building of MSMEs. The Policy will help in realising the vision of ‘Building India as the World class hub for Capital Goods’. It will also play a pivotal role in overall manufacturing as the pillar of strength to the vision of ‘Make in India’. The objectives of the policy will be met by the Department of Heavy Industry in a time bound manner through obtaining approval for schemes as per the roadmap of policy interventions.

Jun 13, 2016 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 13th June, 2016

Archives   IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 13th June, 2016   SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY    TOPIC General studies 3: Science and Technology – developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology. Awareness in the fields of IT, Computers and issues relating to intellectual property rights. General studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.   Net Neutrality: India should keep an eye on Europe   India’s present status in regard to Net Neutrality: Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) is seeking comments on Net neutrality by June 21. The pre-consultation paper asks for views from the stakeholders on over-the-top services, differential pricing for data services, and on other issues related to Net neutrality. However, the pre-consultation buzz about Net neutrality is not confined to Indian shores. Even the European Union is embarking on a public consultation process on Net neutrality. The response of Indian citizens to zero-rated apps — the concept of certain applications, such as Facebook’s Internet.org, being provided free to customers — has emerged as one of the talking, even rallying, points for a similar campaign in Germany.   The Europe’s case: The Body of European Regulators for Electronic Communications (BEREC) has launched a public consultation to interpret the new Net neutrality law passed in October 2015. Activists have called the current law an “ambiguous” one with “crucial loopholes” that could undermine the concept of a level playing field online. Activists criticize that - the law is neither with the telecom companies nor with the activists. It has been overcomplicated and could be interpreted either way. This ambiguous law of Europe has already spurred telecom companies to offer special services. Some telecom companies have begun offering zero-rating with Facebook services. But the heads of major media houses have issued an open letter condemning these kinds of agreements. Since, it benefits to those websites who can pay a couple of percent (of their revenue), small start-ups are going to suffer and there will be no level playing field. It is going to affect many media companies who might lose their right to publish themselves, hence resulting in loss of diversity in media. Statements such as these make the process of public consultation “critical” to ensure an implementable and fair set of guidelines   Why India should keep an eye on Europe? Unlike the Indian consultations which focused only on zero-rated applications, the EU law is comprehensive in tackling two other major challenges of Net neutrality: specialised services, which enable faster access to certain applications which have tie-ups with Internet providers, and traffic management, which allows Internet providers to peruse data and decide which Internet traffic is important and which is not, rather than the current system of equal distribution. In previous conferences on digital rights, Indian campaign had voiced a big ‘no’ for zero-rating — which was marketed as giving the poor ‘some Internet’ instead of ‘no Internet’. India’s response has been a lesson for Western politicians who are “worried” about stopping free zero-rated services. The Indian response was remarkable, as it was learnt that zero-rating might affect their start-ups and local voices. However, India had used a ready-made template during consultation process, as it was best suited for it, being a country of low awareness of digital rights. But now, Europe doesn’t want to adopt similar strategy of India’s in its consultation process. Since Europe has good awareness of digital rights and data protection, it can answer a few unanswered questions about net neutrality. Based on the responses, a template will be generated and sent to BEREC, the EU, or member states. Therefore, a better outcome resulting from the similar debate in EU can help resolve issues related to Net traffic management and specialised services in India India, which figures on top in the plans of Internet companies which are scrambling to “connect the last billion”, may well have to learn from the European legislation. Discussions on specialised services and Internet traffic management are yet to be resolved. For which, India should keep an eye on Europe over the coming months.   Also read- April Magazine, 2015 TRAI rules in favour of Net neutrality INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate   Let’s get to know the UNSC— The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) is one of the six principal organs of the United Nations; created following World War II to address the failings of another international organization, the League of Nations, in maintaining world peace. Responsibilities: Maintenance of international peace and security Accepting new members to the United Nations Approving any changes to its United Nations Charter Powers: Establishment of peacekeeping operations— Recommend procedures for peaceful resolution of a dispute (Considered to not be binding, as they lack an enforcement mechanism) Establishment of international sanctions Authorization of military action through Security Council resolutions; it is the only UN body with the authority to issue binding resolutions to member states (the legal basis for UN armed action in Korea in 1950 during the Korean War and the use of coalition forces in Iraq and Kuwait in 1991 and Libya in 2011) Call upon other member nations to completely or partially interrupt economic relations as well as sea, air, postal, and radio communications, or to sever diplomatic relations Enforce its decisions militarily, or by any means necessary; to take action to protect civilians in an armed conflict, including taking action against genocide, war crimes, ethnic cleansing, and crimes against humanity Authority to refer cases to the Court in which the Court could not otherwise exercise jurisdiction (In 2011, asked the ICC to investigate the Libyan government's violent response to the Libyan Civil War)   Members of the Security Council — 193 member states, more than 30 affiliated organisations, and a 40,000-strong staff Five permanent members: The U.K., the U.S., Russia, China, and France—can veto any substantive Security Council resolution, including those on the admission of new member states or candidates for Secretary-General 10 non-permanent members: Elected on a regional basis to serve two-year terms   India: One of the biggest diplomatic challenges is to secure a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, even though… Second largest population (connect it with the demographic dividend) One of the largest economy in terms of PPP Leading IT power Largest troop contributor to UN Peace Keeping operations Image of a peace loving nation which produced the likes of Buddha and Gandhi Historically- India – then still under British rule – was among the 51 original members of the UN when the organisation was formed in 1945. 1948: First tryst with the UNSC occurred over Kashmir, following an invasion by tribal forces backed by the Pakistani military. Pt. Nehru referred the matter to the UNSC, but was disappointed, particularly by the western powers, which treated the matter more as a dispute between two states rather than the invasion of one’s territory by the other Cold War Years: Following the war, India played an active role in the repatriation of prisoners-of-war and refugees, consolidating its reputation as a champion of peaceful conflict resolution in the UN, variously contributing troops, senior officials, military observers and humanitarian assistance to a diverse set of UN operations in west Asia, Africa and Asia. Post 1991: India began voicing a demand for greater representation in international organisations based on its national capabilities and contributions to the UN system since its inception; which translated into a demand for permanent membership at the UNSC. 1998: India shook the global stage with a series of nuclear tests. International reaction was sharply negative but short-lived – instead of opprobrium, India earned recognition from the great powers for its emerging status as a rising power to be reckoned with (Mohan 2003)— but the recognition was buoyed by the rapid economic growth that post-1991 economic reforms had generated Responsible leadership witnessed (2011-12): India counselled restraint on the question of military intervention, emphasising the importance of undertaking well-planned and adequately resourced UN missions, it upheld its role as a guardian of the UN Charter and its goals. Also, the Indian mission to the UN highlighted—the need for concerted UN action on— Global terrorism and piracy, two key threats to India’s security and commercial interests. Primary causes of India’s mixed record can be traced back to three factors – Unavailability of resources: MEA needs to expand (India needs more and better-supported personnel to meet its international aspirations) The “software” of India’s foreign policy, that is, the intellectual and institutional infrastructure required to engage productively in international affairs, is woefully inadequate. (Not a single Indian think tank features among one ranking of the world’s top 30 think tanks) Insufficient engagement with varying normative perspectives on UNSC issues— Inability to come up with a clear and compelling narrative on why it was taking the stances that it did and what were the underlying considerations behind its responses to various issues (tendency to focus on the merits of each case without any heed to broader global patterns, underlying normative contestation, or the intellectual currents in other capitals of the world) An over-reliance on entitlement as the foundation of India’s claims to a permanent seat IASbaba’s Views: The United Nations is often at odds with contemporary reality, because it has not, at its core, shifted from the international power structure of 1945 and thus, it is imperative to undertake further expansion of this body to reflect the current global dynamics and to give equitable representation to different geographical regions in the world. Global peace and security architecture cannot continue to remain based on the supremacy of those allied powers. (http://iasbaba.com/2015/09/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-14th-september-2015/) India’s Strategy— India should considerably contribute greater resources, to middle and smaller powers in the UN (Middle East) MEA needs to engage in a wider public dialogue on what India’s positions should be on key aspects of international issues today, including sovereignty, intervention and the use of force, both domestically and internationally (esp. when India is faced with major internal and regional security challenges) India should engage in coalition building with other rising powers as investing in relationships could bolster its international profile—increasing its influence and footprint within the international system Connecting the Dots: ‘True multilateralism requires full and equal participation of all nations – big and small – in the multilateral decision-making process’ Comment Has India confused ‘contribution to international security’ with sending troops to serve on United Nations peacekeeping mission? Discuss   MUST READ Nothing personal about it Indian Express Related Articles: TLP – 2016   A Wider Battle Indian Express Related Articles: TLP - 2015   A rejig in time Indian Express Related Articles: India’s shaky ‘sovereign wealth fund’   The terror on our roads Indian Express Related Articles: Roadkill Nations India’s draft road transport and safety bill Public transport: Overwhelming Needs but Limited Resources   Innovation is not enough Livemint   Payments banks: How many more will call it quits? Livemint Related Articles: Cracking the payments bank puzzle Payment Banks: Banks for the unbanked aam aadmi   One institution at a time Livemint   Three bumps in the road ahead Livemint   MIND MAPS 1. India and Latin America

Jun 13, 2016 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

IASbaba ’60 Day Plan- Prelims Test 2016 POLITY & CURRENT AFFAIRS [DAY 25]

Click here to get all the Tests- Archives   Hello Friends   Hope you are enjoying Daily questions. The link for Day 24 solution is active now.  Why we asked you to comment? Now go back to check your answers that you posted with honest effort. Edit your answers with marks. Everyday like this you can self monitor your progress for all 60 days. Accountability to self is the only way for success   IASbaba '60 Day Plan' - Prelims Test 2016 [Day 25]   Q.1) Consider the following statements in regard to the President of India: President is the highest decision-making authority in our politico-administrative system. President can require the Prime Minister to submit, for consideration of the council of ministers, any matter on which a decision has been taken by a minister but, which has not been considered by the council. President can make regulations for the peace, progress and good government of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. In the case of Puducherry and Delhi, the President can legislate by making regulations but only when the assembly is suspended or dissolved. Which of the statements given above are correct? a) 1, 3 and 4 b) 2 and 3 c) 1, 2 and 3 d) All of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements in regard to the removal of Vice President of India: The Vice-President may be removed on any ground considered sufficient by the two Houses of the Parliament In both the cases of removal of the President and the Vice-President, the power of removal is lodged in the two Houses of Parliament A Vice President may be removed from his office by a resolution of the council of States passed by an absolute majority and agreed to by the House of the People A Vice President may be removed from his office by a resolution of the council of States passed by a special majority and agreed to by the House of the People Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect? a) 2 and 4 only b) 3 and 4 only c) 3 only d) 4 only  Q.3) Which among the following qualifications for a person to be chosen as a member of the Parliament is laid down by the Constitution of India? He must be not less than 30 years of age in the case of the Rajya Sabha and not less than 25 years of age in the case of the Lok Sabha. He must be registered as an elector for a parliamentary constituency. This is same in the case of both, the Rajya Sabha and the Lok Sabha. He must make and subscribe to an oath or affirmation before the person authorised by the election commission for this purpose, according to the form prescribed in the Fourth Schedule. Choose the appropriate code: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 1 and 2 only d) All of the above  Q.4) Consider the following statements and select the correct statement/s from the codes given below: Presiding officer decides on questions as to disqualifications of members of the Parliament, in consultation with the Election Commission Finance Minister causes to be laid before the Parliament the annual financial statement No demand for a grant can be made except on President’s recommendation Choose the appropriate code: a) 1 and 3 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 3 only d) All of the above Q.5) Which among the following statements is not true in regard to President’s powers?   President’s power to give or not to give assent to the bills passed by the Parliament is a discretionary power, except in case of money bills and constitutional amendment bills. The object of conferring this discretionary power on the President is to prevent hasty and ill-considered legislation by the Parliament and to prevent a legislation which may be unconstitutional. It is not obligatory for the President to give his assent even if the bill is again passed by the state legislature and sent again to him for his consideration. Choose the appropriate code: a) 1 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 2 only d) 1 and 3 only  Q.6) Whenever a bill seeking to replace an ordinance is introduced in the House A statement explaining the circumstances that had necessitated immediate legislation by ordinance should also be placed before the House. A statement explaining why the concerned House is seeking to replace an ordinance should be placed before the President. The ordinance may cease to operate even earlier than the prescribed expiry of six weeks. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 only b) 2 only c) 3 only d) Both 2 and 3 Q.7) Consider the following differences with regard to the President and the Governor of India:  Governor has both constitutional and situational discretion power President has no constitutional discretion, he has only some situational discretion The pardoning power of the President is independent of the judiciary and is an executive power Both the Governor and the President have concurrent power in respect of suspension, remission and commutation of death sentence Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1, 2 and 4 only b) 3 only c) 3 and 4 d) All of the above Q.8) Consider the following statements in regard to the Prime Minister of India: The Prime Minister holds office for a term of five years from the date on which he enters upon his office. However, if he loses the confidence of the Lok Sabha, he must resign or the President can dismiss him. Prime Minister gets the salary and allowances that are payable to a member of Parliament, only his sumptuary allowance varies Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) All of the above Q.9) Consider the following statements:  In India the President is only a nominal executive and the real powers are vested in the prime minister. The executive power of the Union shall be vested in Prime Minister and shall be exercised by him either directly or through officers subordinates to him. Council of ministers headed by the Prime Minister advices the President with regard to summoning and proroguing of the sessions of the Parliament. Orders and other instruments made and executed in the name of the President shall be authenticated in such manner as may be specified in rules made by the Parliament. Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect? a) 2 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 2 and 4 only d) All of the above Q.10) Consider the following in regard to President of India: A person to be eligible for election as President should have completed 35 years of age, i.e, should be qualified for election as a member of the second chamber. The salary and allowances of the president are charged from Consolidated Fund of India. President may be elected for any number of terms Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) All of the above  Q.11) Which among the following is/are correct statements in regard to Council of ministers and Cabinet? Cabinet functions are determined by the Council of ministers Council of ministers supervises the implementation of its decisions by the cabinet Choose the appropriate code: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2  Q.12) Consider the following statements in regard to Council of Ministers: When the Lok Sabha passes a no-confidence motion against the council of ministers, all the ministers have to resign including those ministers who are from the Rajya Sabha. The council of ministers can advise the president to dissolve the Lok Sabha on the ground that the House does not represent the views of the electorate faithfully and call for fresh elections. It is the duty of every minister to stand by cabinet decisions and support them both within and outside the Parliament. If any minister disagrees with a cabinet decision and is not prepared to defend it, he must resign. President can remove a minister even at a time when the council of ministers enjoys the confidence of the Lok Sabha. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 3 and 4 only b) 2, 3 and 4 only c) 1, 2 and 3 only d) All of the above Q.13) Who among the following hold office during the pleasure of the President? Attorney General Prime Minister Governor Council of Ministers Choose the appropriate code: a) 1 only b) 1, 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) All of the above Q.14) Which provision is regarded as the foundation of the Parliamentary system of government? a) Interdependence between Legislature and Executive organs b) The council of ministers shall be collectively responsible to the Lok Sabha c) The executive power of the Union shall be vested in President and shall be exercised by him either directly or through officers subordinate to him d) Lok Sabha is elected directly by the people  Q.15) Consider the below statements in regard to the President of India: President is the supreme executive authority of the Central government and chief coordinator of Central administration. He is the supreme commander of the defence forces of India. In that capacity, he appoints the chiefs of the Army, the Navy and the Air Force and  can declare war or conclude peace, subject to the approval of the Parliament. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 1 and 3 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 2 only d) None Q.16) Consider the following: Term                                                                           Meaning Pardon                                                 Completely relief from any punishment Reprieve                                              Temporary suspension of any punishment Respite                                                 Awarding less sentence Commutation                                     Changing one punishment to another Which of the above terms are correctly matched? a) 1 and 3 b) 2 and 4 c) 1, 2 and 4 d) All of the above Q.17) Consider the following statements regarding impeachment of the President of India: The President of India can be impeached from the office for violation of Constitution, insolvency and using public office for private gains. A motion of impeachment can be initiated only in Loksabha. The proposal to prefer such charge is contained in a resolution which has been moved after at least fourteen days' notice in writing, signed by not less than one-third of the total number of members of the House, has been given of their intention to move the resolution. If the resolution is passed by a special majority (two thirds of present and voting), the President stands impeached from his office. Which of the above statements is/are incorrect regarding the impeachment of the President of India? a) 1 and 2 b) 4 only c) None of the above d) All of the above Q.18) The Ordinance mechanism has been devised to enable the executive to deal with a situation that may suddenly and immediately arise when the Parliament is not in session (either one or both houses). Which of the following statements are correct regarding Ordinance making in India? Article 123 of Indian Constitution empowers the president to promulgate Ordinances. Maximum life of an ordinance can be 6 months and 6 weeks. An Ordinance can only be promulgated on the subjects on which Parliament is competent to make laws. Select the code from the following: a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) 1 and 3 d) All of the above Q.19) Article 74(1) requires the President to have a Council of Ministers with the Prime Minister at the head to “aid and advice” him in the exercise of his power. Which of the following statements regarding Council of Ministers are correct? Ministers are appointed by the Prime Minister. India has a three-tier ministry consisting of cabinet ministers, ministers of state and the deputy ministers. The term ‘Cabinet’ is not present in the original Constitution. Select the code from the following: a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) 1 and 3 d) All of the above Q.20) Consider the following statements with respect to Swarna Bharat Yojana The scheme is aimed to decrease gold imports by mobilising gold in the domestic market Gold monetisation, Indian gold coins, Gold bond scheme are some of the ancillary schemes related to Swarna Bharat Yojana Select the correct answer using the codes given below a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.21) Swasth Dharaa Khet Haraa is a slogan of which of the following scheme by Government of India a) Pradhan Mantri Krishi sinchana Yojana b) Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana c) Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana d) Soil health card scheme Q.22) Consider the following statements with respect to World Wild Life Fund The fund is created under the aegis of United Nations environment programme Panda is the official logo of world wildlife fund Select the correct option a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.23) Shyam Benegal Committee is related to which of the following subjects a) Tribal alienation b) Public distribution system c) Film certification d) Regulation of MSME Q.24) Chaitra Vaishaka months in traditional Indian calendar corresponds to which of the following months in English calendar? a) March-April b) May-June c) Jan-Feb d) April-May Q.25) Consider the following regarding ‘The Convention on the Rights of the Child’ It is a legally binding treaty under the ambit of United Nations. According to the convention a child is any person who has not reached the age of sixteen unless a different age of maturity is specified in any country's law. It talks about civil, political, economic, social, health and cultural rights of children. Select the correct code a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) 1 and 3 d) 1, 2 and 3   Download the Solution- Click here P.S- Attempt these questions within 20 minutes with full honesty and write your results in the comment box. Next day, come back and check your result. You can also discuss the important concepts and issues, in case of doubts (among peers) All the best IASbaba  

Jun 12, 2016 Motivational Articles

At Your Own Risk: Its Time to Tide Over Your Incompetence @2016 Aspirants

Hello Friends,  While most of you are sleeping, we are writing this to wake you up. Yes, you heard it right! Aren’t you feeling that it was just yesterday when you started off with your preparation? Time is so fast. It ticks without bothering about things like how many are left behind, or is not able to match pace or are quitting. Time is like the Sun. It will rise and set on its own terms, worrying about none. However, we are here again to remind you of something that concerns you as much as it matters to us i.e. your future! Many of you joined the test series and prepared for a whole year; sacrificing many things in the process, only to realize that your preparation is not up to the level it is supposed to attain. Everything seems so messy with lot of pending things to complete. Just buying a test series or the famous materials couldn’t bring that satiation or confidence. Why is it so? “You have to fight through the bad days in order to earn the best days” Let us explain the trend to you with real examples. Many of you joined our ILP Program with full enthusiasm. The starting point seemed perfect, the plan looked promising and you accepted it with full zeal and enthusiasm. It was with full faith that you joined it and promised yourself to be true to its essence. But it didn’t last for long. You deviated from it and started running behind the crowd (lakhs of aspirants) who has the habit of becoming a sink. Yes, a sink! Sink storing resources— to stink!   Anything that is underutilized or misused will always be bad in taste. The same is happening with most of you. You are not feeling well, and are tired with least amount of confidence. After almost at the end of ILP program and 24 days of our 60 day plan, we have certain types of aspirants following us- People in line with the plan from the beginning People who joined it as a habit Procrastinators Inconsistently following the plan People scoring well consistently in every topic People with fluctuating scores People who are not able to score well but still put up their answers And mute spectators who visit regularly but are scared to post their answers and who don’t get involved in any discussion   There is no motivation that exists; if not stemming from within! You can never ask for motivation or can get motivated by external factors—it is never meant to be permanent. This process is so tiring that unless you are convinced to the core that yes, this is what you want- nothing can keep you engaged. The real problem lies here. You were not convinced from the core.   Isn’t it? If yes, then what else matters to you other than your dream?   Legendary sportsman, Mohammad Ali said   “If you even dream of beating me, you'd better wake up and apologize”.   What does this mean? He could very well sense his goal and the sort of preparation he did to achieve it that made him quote the above statement. This is called confidence.   He went on to say this   "I'm not the greatest, I'm the double greatest. Not only do I knock 'em out, I pick the round. I'm the boldest, the prettiest, the most superior, most scientific, most skilfullest fighter in the ring today."   Don’t be mistaken by concluding that it was overconfidence. No it was not. He proved every single word he spoke. How? He did it with his actions and saved his words in the history for generations to come. It's the repetition of affirmations that leads to the birth of a belief. And once that belief becomes a deep conviction, things begin to unfurl. Sadly, the belief is missing in you. We have seen people blaming us for irrelevant questions and very difficult test series/questions. They are the ones spreading negativity about us on various platforms :)  And there are aspirants who followed it with full belief, learned in the process, are very regular and always emailed or called us to congratulate about their growth and confidence. Then there are people who hide their weaknesses by saying “We are discouraging aspirants by making tough questions and it is reflected in the low marks they have scored. It shows that the problem lies in our planning not in their preparation”. Really? We bless them a very good luck in life. They are aspiring to become “Collectors” aka IAS but will end up becoming “Collectors” aka Sink (unutilized resources). But we are of the same belief as Tywin Lannister- "A lion doesn't concern himself with the opinions of a sheep."     While doing something you need to know the aim of that activity   The answer needs a great detailing but we will try to be precise here. We want to tell you what our aim is when we frame questions? An ideal test paper is the one which has got a certain percentage of difficult questions, average questions and easy questions. This is the kind of paper we try to frame in our test series so that students can get a feel of the ‘real paper’ and they learn which question to attempt and which ones to leave. On the other hand, in the 60 day plan when we have to post only 25-30 questions a day, we don’t look at it as an ideal paper. Firstly, we try to prepare you for the worst, and secondly, we are trying to hit as many questions in prelims as we can. So our topics are meticulously chosen and questions are framed accordingly so that you can understand what a difficult question in UPSC would look like. The same articulation was followed in our test series. We intentionally framed tough questions so that you start learning more by stretching your limits. Scoring 130+ shouldn’t be the target in practice tests rather one’s focus should consistently be ‘maximization of learning’. However, those who understood the essence have been scoring well around 130+ in most of the tests. How are they different from the ones who complain and put the blame on us? Weren’t the paper and topics same for all? Where does the difference lie then? The difference lies in one’s perspective and approach.   “Fear your incompetence; not the competition or the competitor” Sincere aspirants understand the benefits of learning and take it as a challenge. They prepare in the same manner as we set the papers. They know that easy things will anyway be handled so they focus on working on extreme aspects. In the process, their analytical ability, knack of reading between the lines and correlating concepts get enhanced. They are aware of the fact that in real exam it is not the score in practice tests that will come to rescue but the attained knowledge. They go on to learn, learn and learn; being least bothered about the scores. Likewise your aim should be to grasp as much knowledge as you can and prepare these topics holistically. Also you need to attempt these questions with full concentration to avoid silly mistakes. Every word which is used to frame a question has got a meaning- try to understand that. UPSC does the same and people get confused. You don’t need to over-think. Most of the times, the questions are straightforward and simple but we unnecessarily complicate them and mark the wrong option. Take this exercise as a learning platform and do as many experiments as you can and emerge with a winning combination for yourself. After all, scoring is not always equal to winning. Isn’t it? Below is just an example. You may have followed different plans or programs but try to relate it with the intention with which we are trying to make a point here— ILP 2016 is running from late October: Those who must have joined it to prepare sincerely must have followed it with the required pace along with the given Plan. For them, 60 Days will be nothing but a revision exercise. Coming to the late subscribers and procrastinators Late subscribers (sincere aspirants) like you can also manage to cover both. How? Joining late doesn’t reflect your non-seriousness but it may be because of unawareness about the program. Also, if you are targeting 2016, you must have done some basic preparation. More or less, syllabus and resources are common to all. We don’t have something unprecedented to give you in terms of sources. Since your basics are clear, you should focus more on learning retrospectively. We understand that it will be practically difficult to follow all the tests as per the plan at this point. Your sole focus should be to learn all the concepts given in the tests and our content. If you do so, consolidating your learning and knowledge will become easier. You solve 100 questions but concept wise, you learn and consolidate minimum of 300-400 related concepts. Suppose- You have prepared Social Reforms and Bhakti Movement- Very Important from Prelims perspective. Now look at our Plan and try to find in which all tests, these topics are covered. Attack all those tests and solve all the questions and learn/revise retrospectively. This way you will not only revise but consolidate and fill your gaps in much less time. Questions prepared by us will act as a bridge since they are prepared considering the importance of the topics and their analytical nature. This way you can easily cover all important topics along with solving the tests and revising things simultaneously. Have this attitude :)  We also highly recommend you to discuss your queries here on the 60 days tests platform—Sometimes we think that what we have learnt from one source is correct and we become rigid about it. Once we encounter something that goes against that concept we blindly call it wrong. This is a wrong attitude and it might harm you in the long run. If you think that some concept is wrong or we have given a wrong answer, you can be true. We are also human and we can commit mistake. Trust us, when we tell you! We are not ashamed to accept our mistakes. We want to guide you towards the right direction. We try to clarify your questions and doubts whenever possible so that you don’t carry a misconception in the examination hall. Putting up your questions and discussing it with your peers and us, will not only help you attain clarity but also help others who might be having the same doubt. As Mohammad Ali quoted "Impossible is just a big word thrown around by small men who find it easier to live in the world they’ve been given than to explore the power they have to change it. Impossible is not a fact. It’s an opinion. Impossible is not a declaration. It’s a dare. Impossible is potential. Impossible is temporary. Impossible is nothing" FOR 2017 ASPIRANTS! Many aspirants, who want to prepare for 2017, are in panic mode with the shift in the dates announced by UPSC. They think that there isn’t enough time now for them to prepare. And now they are like We are flooded with queries, asking things to do and various other doubts on daily basis. We want to assure all of you for one thing, IASbaba has something special for you :)    Friends you don’t need to panic. The time that you have is more than enough to nail this exam. In haste, don’t take a wrong decision or get into something which you will regret later on. We recommend you to read our prelims and mains strategy and start with the basic books on your own.   As a famous saying goes, “Being with a winner, makes you a winner.”   P.S- We would love reading your feedback and comments. It is the only thing that motivates and keeps us going :) We promise to continue our never ending efforts to help you achieve the success that one want. Thank You IASbaba

Jun 11, 2016 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

IASbaba ’60 Day Plan- Prelims Test 2016 ENVIRONMENT & CURRENT AFFAIRS [DAY 24]

Click here to get all the Tests- Archives Hello Friends Hope you are enjoying Daily questions. The link for Day 23 solution is active now.  Why we asked you to comment? Now go back to check your answers that you posted with honest effort. Edit your answers with marks. Everyday like this you can self monitor your progress for all 60 days. Accountability to self is the only way for success IASbaba '60 Day Plan' - Prelims Test 2016 [Day 24] Q.1) Which of the following are the features of newly notified E-Waste Management Rules, 2016 by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change? These rules for the first time will bring the producers under Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR). For the first time, Compact Fluorescent Lamp (CFL) and other mercury containing lamp brought under the purview of rules. Provision for Pan India EPR Authorization by CPCB has been introduced replacing the state wise EPR authorization. Micro and Small industry sector as defined in Micro Small and Medium Developmental Act, 2006 are completely exempted with EPR Responsibility. Choose the appropriate code: a) 1 and 4 only b) 1, 3 and 4 only c) 1, 2 and 3 only d) All of the above Q.2) Select the incorrect pair from the below given important environment related days and its 2016 theme: a) World Oceans Day (8th June every year) : : “Healthy oceans, healthy planet” b) World Environment Day (5th June every year) : : “Go Wild for Life -- Zero tolerance for the illegal trade in wildlife” c) Earth Day (22nd April every year) : : “Wetlands for our Future – Sustainable Livelihoods” d) None of the above  Q.3) Recently, the Union Government has launched the Centre for Environmental Health in New Delhi. Consider the following statements in regard to it: The centre will assess the impact of environment-related problems like climate change, air pollution, pesticide use and sanitation on health. It is a joint initiative of the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI). The initiative was launched by Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? a) 2 and 3 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 1 and 3 only d) All of the above Q.4) Which among the following statements are correct in regard to recently adopted historic Paris Climate Agreement at the 21st Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC? The agreement facilitates enforcement of global GHGs reduction measures, adaptation and finance in the post-2020 i.e. in post Kyoto Protocol scenario. All member countries agreed to work to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius, and to strive for 1.5 degrees Celsius. All member countries agreed to take into account the principle of equity (climate justice) and common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR) and respective capabilities. Developed countries will provide 100 billion dollars annually to the developing counterparts beginning in 2020 and it would increase with time. Choose the appropriate code: a) 1 and 4 only b) 1, 3 and 4 only c) 1 and 3 only d) All of the above  Q.5) If a private company wants to set up an industrial or infrastructure projects in a forest land, then: The Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980 (FCA) governs diversion or use of forest land for non-forest purposes such as industrial or infrastructure projects. A company diverting forest land must provide alternative land for taking up compensatory afforestation. For the afforestation purpose, the company should pay for planting new trees in the alternative land provided to the state. The loss of forest ecosystem must also be compensated by paying for net present value of forest (NPV). Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect? a) None of the above b) 1 and 4 only c) 4 only d) 1 only Q.6) Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change recently released a new Four-color Classification Scheme for industries based on their pollution potential. Select the correctly matched new categorization system: Red category: Pollution Index (PI) score of 60 and above. Orange category: PI score of 41 to 59. Yellow category: PI score of 21 to 40. Green category: PI score below and upto 20. Choose the appropriate code a) 1 and 2 only b) 1, 3 and 4 only c) 1 and 4 only d) 1, 2 and 4 only Q.7) Recently, the Union cabinet gave its formal approval for adopting the Statute of the South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network (SAWEN). Select the incorrect statement from the following in regard to SAWEN: a) SAWEN is regional inter-governmental wildlife law enforcement support body launched in January, 2011 in Paro, Bhutan. b) SAWEN aims to strengthen, promote and co-ordinate regional co-operation for curbing illegal wildlife trade that threatens the wild flora and fauna of South Asia. c) Except Pakistan, all other South Asian countries will be the part of SAWEN. d) None of the above Q.8) Consider the following statements regarding Agenda 21 It is a non-binding and voluntary implementation plan of United Nations with regard to sustainable development United Nation Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), a legally binding international agreement stemmed from Agenda 21 Agenda 21 also mentions about protection of atmosphere Select the appropriate code a) 1 and 2 Only b) 2 and 3 Only c) 1 and 3 Only d) 1, 2 and 3 Q.9) Consider the following International Conventions Aarhus Convention Geneva Convention Stockholm Convention Rotterdam Convention Basel Convention Bonn Convention Which of the above are related to Hazardous Substances? a) 1, 2, 3, 5 and 6 b) 2, 3, 4 and 5 c) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 d) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Q.10) Amur falcons has one of the longest and most fascinating migratory paths in the avian kingdom. Consider the following statements regarding Amur falcons: It is one of the largest raptor species. It migrates from Mongolia to South Africa via India. It is amongst the critically endangered species and very few left in wild. It considered a delicacy in Nagaland and widely hunted during their short stay in India. Select the correct statements from above: a) 1 and 3 b) 2 and 4 c) 3 only d) All of the above Q.11) Endosulfan has been used as a pesticide in agriculture for a long time. India has agreed to phase out completely the use and manufacture of endosulfan by 2017. Which of the following statements are correct about endosulfan? It is not pest specific and it can negatively impact the populations of beneficial insects. Endosulfan is acutely neurotoxic to both insects and mammals. Endosulfan has high potential to bio-accumulate and bio-magnify. Endosulfan is banned across the world under Stockholm convention. Endosulfan is the cause of death of Indian vultures. Select the code from the following: a) 1, 2 and 3 b) 1, 3 and 4 c) 2, 3, 4 and 5 d) All of the above Q.12) Government of India has being trying to protect the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard. Which of the following statement are correct about Great Indian Bustard? To protect the bird and create awareness, this has been made the state bird of Haryana. It is a flight less bird. It is found in arid and semi-arid grassland. Select the code from the following: a) All of the above b) 1 and 2 c) 2 and 3 d) 3 only  Q.13) Which of the following gas emissions are checked when pollution check of vehicles are done in India? Carbon mono Oxide Hydrocarbons Carbon di-oxide Sulphur Oxides Select the correct code from the following: a) 1 and 2 b) 3 and 4 c) 1,2 and 4 d) All of the above Q.14) India is amongst the first and foremost countries to have a forest policy. Although the first policy of 1894 was designed on how to exploit the forest resources, constant revisions were made in the policy after independence of India. The current policy was made in 1988, known as The National Forest Policy 1988. Which of the following statements are incorrect about this policy? Maintenance of environmental stability through the preservation and restoration of ecological balance. Conservation of forests as a national heritage with vast varieties of flora and fauna. Control of soil erosion and denudation in catchment areas of rivers, lakes and reservoirs. Check on the extension of sand-dunes in desert areas. To meet the needs of fuel-wood, fodder and minor forest products for the rural and tribal people. Encouragement of efficient utilization of forest produce and optimum substitution of wood. Select the code from the following: a) 1,2 and 3 b) 4,5 and 6 c) 5 and 6 d) None of the above Q.15) Since the solid waste generation is rising in urban areas of India, many waste to energy plants are being started. They serve the dual purpose of waste disposal as well as generation of electricity. Which of the following statements are correct about waste to energy generation? The cost of waste to energy is somewhat higher than other renewable sources. The chimneys of incinerators include acid gases, nitrogen oxide, heavy metals, particulates, and dioxin, which are carcinogenic. The efficiency of waste to energy plants is very low. Select the correct code from the following: a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) 1 and 3 d) All of the above Q.16) Consider the following statements regarding Minamata Convention: It is an international treaty designed to protect human health and the environment from anthropogenic emissions and releases of mercury. It is named after Japanese city Minamata which went through devastating incident of mercury poisoning. India has ratified the Minamata convention. The developed countries have promised to help financially, technically, and technologically to developing countries. Which of the above statements are correct? a) 1, 2 and 3 b) 2, 3 and 4 c) 1, 2 and 4 d) All of the above Q.17) Consider the following: International Conventions                                                                     Location Nuclear Safety                                                                                                  Vienna United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea                                           Montego Bay Persistent Organic Pollutants                                                                           Stockholm Control of Hazardous Wastes and their Disposal                                              Basel Which of the above are correctly matched? a) 1,2 and 3 b) 2,3 and 4 c) 1,3 and 4 d) All of the above Q.18) Consider the following statements: Mixing fly ash in soil can help farmers increase production of crops and vegetables Fly ash can be mixed with cement thus reducing the cost of construction. Fly ash can cover the surface of plant leaves and thus helps in increasing nutrient capacity. Fly ash bricks are light weight and offer high strength and durability. Use of fly-ash instead of lime in agriculture can reduce net CO2 emission and also reduce global warming. Which of the above statements are correct w.r.t Fly Ash? a) 1, 2 , 3 and 4 b) 2, 3, 4 and 5 c) 1, 2, 4 and 5 d) All of the above Q.19) Which of the following is not concerned with the Wildlife Protection Act? National Parks Wildlife Sanctuaries Conservation Reserves Biosphere Reserves Community Reserves Tiger Reserves Select the correct code a) 3,4 and 5 b) Only 4 c) 4 and 5 d) None of the above Q.20) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘India Biodiversity Award’ It is a joint initiative by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, National Biodiversity Authority and United Nations Environment Programme The categories for the award are aligned with Biological Diversity Act, 2002 Satpura Tiger Reserve won the India Biodiversity Award this year Which of the following statements is/are incorrect? a) Only 1 b) Only 3 c) 1 and 3 d) All of the above  Q.21) Recently Himachal Pradesh fisheries department has started an artificial propagation programme for rehabilitation and conservation of Golden Mahseer fish. Consider the following statements with respect to Golden Mahseer Fish. It is the longest-living freshwater fish It is native to mountain and sub-mountain regions It inhabit only rivers It is an omnivore Select the correct code a) 1,2 and 3 b) 1,2 and 4 c) 1 and 2 d) All of the above Q.22) Consider the following Argentina Brazil Uruguay Paraguay Which of the above countries does not belong to MERCOSUR Trade Bloc? a) All belong to MERCOSUR b) 1 and 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) 3 and 4 only Q.23) Consider the following statements with respect to Free Trade agreement Goods Services IPR Investment Which of the above is included in FTA (Free trade agreement) between two countries? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 4 only c) 1 and 3 only d) All Q.24) Consider the following Norway Switzerland Sweden Iceland Which of the above countries is a member of The European Free Trade association? a) 1 and 2 only b) 1,2 and 4 only c) 2 and 4 only d) 2 and 3 only Q.25) Consider the following research institutes National institute of Ocean technology is located in the state of Goa National institute of Oceanography is located in Chennai Select the correct statement with respect to location and research institute is concerned a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.26) Consider the following statements with respect to SAFTA SAFTA or South Asian free trade agreement come under the ambit of ASEAN (Association of South East Asian nations) Pakistan is not a member of SAFTA Select the correct statements a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Download the Solution- Click here P.S- Attempt these questions within 20 minutes with full honesty and write your results in the comment box. Next day, come back and check your result. You can also discuss the important concepts and issues, in case of doubts (among peers) All the best IASbaba

Jun 11, 2016 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 11th June, 2016

ArchivesIASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 11th June, 2016 INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 India and its neighborhood relations, 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. Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.India and Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) is a Eurasian political, economic, and military organisation. It was founded in 2001 in Shanghai by the leaders of China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan.*On July 10, 2015, the SCO decided to admit India and Pakistan as full members, and they are expected to join by 2016. Since its formation in 2001, the SCO has slowly begun to establish itself as an important forum for the Eurasian region. With China and Russia and most Central Asian states as members, there is an obvious strategic dimension to the SCO. This organization has been evolving as an important forum to discuss and address the common security challenges of terrorism and extremism faced by the region.Courtesy (image)- http://chinaincentralasia.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/SCO-members-map1.jpgIndia's agenda at the SCO India has been an observer member of the group for a decade and it will become a full member by 2016. (Along with India, Pakistan will also become a member of the forum.) India and Pakistan’s entry will expand the membership of the SCO from the current six — China, Russia, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan — to eight. It will also draw South Asia into the SCO geography, which, till now, has been confined to Central and East Asia.Benefits for India:India’s inclusion and full membership with the SCO accrues the following benefits: will increase the country’s engagement and energy interests in the region will improve connectivity, fight terrorism, increase energy cooperation and take measures to check drug trafficking SCO also brings big energy producers, like Russia and Kazakhstan, and big energy consumers, like India and China, on one platform SCO has the potential to play a strategically important role in Asia given its geographical significance India sees role of the SCO in the reconstruction and development of Afghanistan. Importance of India’s membership to SCO: India’s inclusion in the SCO makes it more balanced regional organization as the Central Asian republics perceive India as a ‘soft balancer’. In other words, one of the key reasons behind the SCO’s stunted growth in regional economic and strategic matters is the complicated dynamics between China and Russia. Neither has been willing to concede each other greater turf. India’s entry in the forum at this point in time would be visualised as a balancing factor for both. If SCO is able to draw in India and also some countries from the Middle East, particularly those bordering Iran, it would cover a huge land mass in the world and would be among regional associations with the largest populations and energy and mineral resources. The presence of Pakistan and India in the SCO provide its members the much-desired access to the Arabian Sea that leads to the Indian Ocean. India and Central Asia security cooperation may increase with New Delhi’s full membership to the SCO.Challenges faced by the SCO: SCO being a forum of the world’s noted non-Anglo-Saxon Asian powers and a reservoir of abundant energy resources, the SCO has not been able to develop a constructive economic agenda. This lack of an economic agenda has limited the scope of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation. Energy cooperation, which Russian President Vladimir Putin had flagged in 2006 as one of the key goals of the SCO, has remained dormant. Rather, most energy cooperation between the SCO members has been happening bilaterally. Beyond energy, China had proposed a SCO development bank in 2010, which has also remained a non-starter. Meanwhile, China’s interests have shifted to other regional initiatives like the New Development Bank of the BRICS and the Asian Infrastructure Development Bank. One of the key reasons behind the SCO’s stunted growth in regional economic and strategic matters is the complicated dynamics between China and Russia. Neither has been willing to concede each other greater turf. In 2013, the SCO members signed an MoU on the creation of SCO Energy Club. The idea of forming an energy club was first proposed in 2004, although SCO members had different views on it. It is still struggling to start this ‘common energy space’. The long-term economic prospects of the SCO would, however, depend on its connection to the One-Belt-One-Road (OBOR) infrastructure connectivity plan proposed by China for connecting Asia and Europe through land and sea.India’s concerns:Case I: India-Pakistan Cold War India has some concerns over how the forum might react to its delicate relations with Pakistan. But this is unlikely to grow into a major concern as the rest of the members, particularly the Central Asian countries, are likely to maintain considerable distance from the Indo-Pak bilateral domain.Case II: China’s growing interests (OBOR) China would be aiming to utilise the SCO as an important organisation for drumming up regional support for the OBOR. In this respect, India, which till now has refrained from committing to the OBOR, might find itself on relatively weak ground. China is already working on connecting its western region to Central Asia through projects that are exclusive of the SCO. Its long-term objective would be to dovetail these projects into the OBOR network. (similar to the plans it has for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) projects)The way ahead: An important prerogative for India at the SCO would be to fix a strategy for the OBOR. Having a totally non-committal attitude to the OBOR is not the right way to approach an initiative that is slowing spreading deep and wide across Asia and is becoming bigger than all other ongoing regional connectivity plans. Much of what India might gain from the SCO will depend on its own calculations of the OBOR. It is crucial, that New Delhi takes a constructive and long-sighted view of the opportunities the SCO provides for integration of South and Central Asia.Connecting the dots: Addition of India and Pakistan into SCO “would not only change the political map, but would change the balance of power”. Substantiate. What are the benefits that India accrues upon its full membership to SCO? Also discuss the challenges faced by the country upon such membership. SCO as an economic, political, and military organisation has remained dormant and stunted. Do you agree? Discuss the challenges faced by it.NATIONALTOPIC:  General Studies 1: Women related issuesGeneral Studies 2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector or Services relating to Health, Education, Human ResourcesGeneral Studies 3: Science and Technology – developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technologyDistricts without Uteruses—The malpractice named HysterectomiesWhat is ‘Hysterectomy’ —A hysterectomy is an operation to remove a woman's uterus for different reasons, including: Uterine fibroids that cause pain, bleeding, or other problems Uterine prolapse (sliding of the uterus from its normal position into the vaginal canal) Cancer of the uterus, cervix, or ovaries Endometriosis (a disease in which tissue that normally grows inside the uterus grows outside it) Abnormal vaginal bleeding Chronic pelvic pain Adenomyosis (thickening of the uterus) UK A hysterectomy is rarely performed in the UK to save life—other treatment options are usually explored first In order to confirm a diagnosis of cancer, doctors first perform a biopsy and other lab tests. In some cases, they would treat with radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy before recourse to a hysterectomy. The vast majority of hysterectomy cases in the UK involve women between the age of 40 and 50. It is rare for a woman in her 20s or 30s to have one. After a hysterectomy— Menopause, irritable bowel syndrome, and depression, loss of sexual pleasure, thrombosis and vaginal prolapse Increases chances of Breast Cancer & Brain strokes Increases risk of bloating and water retention by body Increases risk of heart attack and other diseases as female hormone oestrogen protects women from it. Ovaries should preferably be retained by every woman at least till 65 years of age Hysterectomy along with removal of ovaries can cause calcium deficiency which results in early osteoporosis, leading to fractures, joint pains and back pain If hysterectomy is done, it requires hormonal replacement therapy which is not advisable Trend of performing hysterectomies for women in India—Frequently performed to economically exploit poor women or government-run insurance schemes Reported from rural pockets of about half a dozen States — Gujarat, Rajasthan, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Maharashtra, especially in the last six years— Poor illiterate women are prescribed the procedure for white discharge, irregular menstrual cycles, and even abdominal pain Their willingness to undergo the procedure stems from the fear of cancer (which doctors convince them of) to the belief that their uteruses are of no use once they have had children. Loss of daily wages during menstruation only makes the prospect more appealing(Over 18,000 insurance-funded hysterectomies are conducted in Bihar and Chhattisgarh alone)The practice a “human rights violation”— not just as a clear violation of reproductive health rights but also as a heinous crime and a form of violence on womenComparison with the West: The total number of hysterectomies in India is lower than in the West. But it is alarming that 30-32 is the average age group of women undergoing the procedure here, while in the West post-menopausal hysterectomy is commonFuelling Schemes—RSBY In 2010, the Andhra Pradesh government dropped hysterectomies from Aarogyasri, the State insurance scheme Self Employed Women’s Association (SEWA) in Gujarat also noticed a high number of hysterectomy claims under its community health insurance scheme in Ahmedabad district In the water-starved Sangola taluka of Solapur in Maharashtra, for instance, women for years have been made to believe that hysterectomy protects them from cancer. Hysterectomies done in Bihar involved women in the 30-40 age group and were covered under the Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY)Action taken by the Government—Rajasthan An inquiry committee was set up and licences of doctors cancelled But a second committee was set up that gave the doctors a clean chit—Private hospitals were hand in glove with diagnostic centres that would do a sonography, give the report in an hour, and conclude that the uterus is about to become cancerousChhattisgarh—Two inquiry committees were formed and the second one let the doctors go scot-free.Karnataka—Three inquiry committees have been formed (reports are still awaited)IASbaba’s Views:Factors that must be addressed: Extremely limited primary gynaecological care for women in most of rural (Time and cost of travel, unskilled doctors)—There is a need for regulation like in the case of the PNDT (Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques Act) that doesn’t allow an ultrasound without proper documentation Attitudes towards women’s bodies and health—drive unnecessary intervention; a uterus is not ‘necessary’ once reproductive functions are fulfilled and this same attitude fuels menstrual taboos, violence against women and sex-selective abortion Low investment in the public health sector over the years leaving India with a fractured and weak health system— The gap left by the public health system combined with a government policy of proactively promoting the private sector has led to the proliferation of private health providers which are unregulated, unaccountable, and out of control When the private sector provides health services on behalf of the state it can make it more difficult for citizens to hold their governments to account and to seek justice Absence of composite national data: Makes regulation difficult Difficulty in determining the population prevalence, if these procedures were necessary, and drivers of hysterectomy amongst young women in IndiaSol: For the first time, the National Family Health Survey-4 has included a question on hysterectomies (first comprehensive data)Setting up guidelines for private hospitals (attitude of business mechanism and profit-making needs to be dealt with) while tightening norms of insurance schemes The doctors must be properly monitored and regulated to ensure they provide a decent level of care— Ethical medical practice needs to be re-affirmed Women should be informed about its long-term consequences, and the alternative medical treatments available; Complications post-hysterectomies need to be recorded and followed up Private health care providers need to be regulated and controlled and public health care provision needs to be scaled up and improved— must be properly standardised to improve rationality of care, regulation of fees, and to uphold patient’s rights Prioritise strengthening and scaling up of government health care which is available to all citizens. Medical Practices: Ovaries should be preserved in every woman till the age of 65 to maintain hormonal balance as the oestrogen hormone also helps protect women from heart attacks. Even in extreme cases, preservation of at least one ovary should be done, so that oestrogen hormone is released into the body. In case of cervical cancer, it is possible to remove the cancerous tissue surgically and prevent uterus removal. Other available non-surgical methods like endometrial ablation; balloon therapy etc. should be utilized.'Save the Uterus and Ovaries' Campaign: Government should recognize and support the campaign—promoting preservation of uterus as part of the FOGSI (Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecological Societies of India) initiativeNote:Uterine Balloon Therapy: A new development and technique, called Uterine Balloon Therapy (UBT), is invented solely to prevent hysterectomies in women who suffer from unmanageable periods and who no longer desire fertility A simple procedure by which the inner lining of the uterus is compressed and thinned out with a special balloon inserted inside the uterus for a period of eight minutes. The balloon is connected to special equipment which helps to raise the pressure and temperature of the water in the balloon. With this heat and pressure, the inner lining (endometrium) is partially destroyed which leads to reduced bleeding later. Advantages— No blood loss and no pain Gets over in 10-15 minutes and therefore, does not involve hospital stay Helps to save the uterus of about 95 per cent women in whom the uterus is otherwise normal Connecting the Dots: Enumerate the possible reasons for the high incidence of hysterectomies. Highlight the challenges and action plans required to deal with it. Has asymmetry of information been the driving force behind the increased rate of ‘medically perpetuated women violence’ in India? Discuss.MUST READThe elephant at the peace tableHinduRelated Articles:TLP – 2016Steering India to safer roadsHinduRelated Articles:Roadkill NationsIndia’s draft road transport and safety billPublic transport: Overwhelming Needs but Limited ResourcesThe unnoticed agreementIndian ExpressRelated Articles:All India Radio – India Iran RelationsIndia Iran RelationsIndia-Iran – Mind MapChabahar Port: crucial gateway for India’s objectivesA place in the cubIndian ExpressRelated Articles:Nuclear Suppliers Group – Mind MapTLP – 2016Quest for another Holy Grail – Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG)India, Pakistan continue to view the opening of trading routes as threat to their securityIndian ExpressRelated Articles:TLP – 2016National intellectual property policy suffers from a lack of conceptual clarityIndian ExpressRelated Articles:        An IP policy with no innovationLegally Knotted ‘Innovations’To plan or not to plan: that is the questionLivemintReservations don’t make access to resources easier for lower-caste studentsLivemintRelated Articles:Reservation: Why Jats want a quota?RSTV - The Big PictureTLP - 2016Reservation: boon or bane?Farming needs liberalised leasing lawsBusiness LineMIND MAPS1. Coral Bleaching

Jun 11, 2016 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

Very Important: CLARIFICATION on Prelims 60 Days Plan [Day 11 to Day 20]

Hello Friends Thank You for the patience and support. Here in this document we have tried our best to consolidate and clear all the genuine doubts, errors from our side and ambiguity in the questions. There were many other doubts which were rectified by us and peers on the same day. Download the File- Click here  

Jun 11, 2016 RSTV Video

The Big Picture - PM Modi's US Visit: What’s on the table?

Archives     The Big Picture - PM Modi's US Visit: What’s on the table?   Prime Minister Modi visited USA recently and discussed host of issues that are of mutual interest. This is the fourth visit of Modi to US and the visit is seen by many as a consolidation of all previous agreements before the incumbent Obama leaves office after the general elections. The article deals with possible outcomes of the visit and the agenda on the table. Prime Minister Modi has visited USA on the eve of nuclear supplier group summit. It is evident from media and other sources that except China, the remaining nuclear security group members have welcomed India’s membership. However the official induction even though it takes little more time the willingness to accept India in to premier club by its member  is a welcome step as India gets to use the premium nuclear technologies for peaceful purposes. Secondly India and USA has vibrant trade relations, despite certain differences there is constant dialogue between two countries to sort out the differences. On defence front the recently concluded logistical agreement has been agreed in principle but pending on paper and the agreement on technology transfer are some of the other initiatives that are on the anvil and on clean energy front financing to mitigate climate change, nuclear reactors from Westinghouse or GE is yet to be finalised. The joint address to US congress by Modi is phenomenal in its way as US congress has the potential in influencing the foreign policy and important decisions of government that has implications to US and other countries. In other words Modi has made a significant stride in letting know the issues bothering between two countries and how both India and USA can coordinate to resolve the same. India and USA relations have been time tested and have evolved in to greater dimensions after significant issues related to nuclear non proliferation is resolved. If US see’s India has its strategic partner in Asia as part of its Asia pivot. India sees this as a opportunity to protect her interests in South Asia. However having a Bon homie relations with US, India should refrain from things or developments that instigates India’s neighbours like china, Nepal, Pakistan. India needs to frame her policies with USA so that it promotes healthy development in the region than creating friction between countries.

Jun 10, 2016 AIR

All India Radio - Reusable Launch Vehicle-Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD)

ARCHIVES   Reusable Launch Vehicle-Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD) India’s first winged body aerospace vehicle, called the Reusable Launch Vehicle-Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD) was successfully launched from ISRO’s first launch pad in Sriharikota 80 km off Chennai on the east coast at 7.00 am on Monday. The RLV-TD shuttle shaped like an aircraft was launched aboard the HS9 a seven-meter rocket with a booster, weighing 17 tons with nine tons of solid propellants. The rocket and shuttle made a successful flight of 91.1seconds and the burnout of HS9 followed. The development of reusable launch vehicle has opened new gateways in conducting space experiments using conventional rockets. One major significance of reusable vehicle is its cost effectiveness. The new vehicle has the potential to cut down the actual cost of launching the rocket by ten times. With the launch of reusable launch vehicle India has demonstrated the world that what India is capable of. Even though the launch vehicle is just a prototype, there is lot to be done in developing a fully fledged space shuttle. In this flight, critical technologies such as autonomous navigation, guidance & control, reusable thermal protection system and re-entry mission management have been successfully validated. With this successful mission India has joined the elite club of space-faring nations. The other countries are the USA, Russia and Japan, that developed and used RLVs for their space missions. This mission has enabled ISRO to successfully collect data and validate such critical technologies and systems as hypersonic speed, autonomous navigation, guidance and control, reusable thermal protection system, powered cruise flight using air-breathing propulsion and re-entry mission management. According to experts, the reusable vehicle technology will reduce the costs of launches in the future by 80% percent. This was AIRed on 24th May 2016

Jun 10, 2016 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

IASbaba ’60 Day Plan- Prelims Test 2016 SCIENCE & TECH & CURRENT AFFAIRS [DAY 23]

Click here to get all the Tests- Archives Hello Friends Hope you are enjoying Daily questions. The link for Day 22 solution is active now.  Why we asked you to comment? Now go back to check your answers that you posted with honest effort. Edit your answers with marks. Everyday like this you can self monitor your progress for all 60 days. Accountability to self is the only way for success IASbaba '60 Day Plan' - Prelims Test 2016 [Day 23] Q.1) A fuel cell is a device that generates electricity by a chemical reaction. Consider the following Molten carbonate fuel cells Phosphoric Acid fuel cells Hydrogen fuel cells Solid oxide fuel cells Which of the above is/are types of fuel cells? a) Only 3 b) 2 and 3 c) 2, 3 and 4 d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.2) Consider the following w.r.t Asian and African Elephants? Both the males and females have tusks in Asian and African elephants African elephants have keener sense of smell as compared to Asian elephants Select the correct code a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both d) None Q.3) Which of the following is the correct definition of ‘Transcriptome’? a) It includes only those RNA molecules found in a specified cell population, and usually includes the amount or concentration of each RNA molecule in addition to the molecular identities. b) It is the set of all messenger RNA molecules in one cell or a population of cells. c) It is the set of all transfer RNA molecule in two or more cells d) None of the above is correct Q.4) Digital convergence refers to the convergence of four industries into one conglomerate. Identify those four industries? Media Consumer Electronics Information Technology Telecommunication Entertainment Cognitive Science Select the appropriate code a) 1, 3, 4 and 5 b) 2, 3, 4 and 5 c) 2, 3, 4 and 6 d) 3, 4, 5 and 6 Q.5) Consider the following about totipotent, pluripotent and multipotent cells: The correct order from most differentiated to least differentiated- is pluripotent>multipotent>totipotent Embryonic stem cells are considered pluripotent cells Multipotent cells are more limited than pluripotent cells Select the correct code a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) 1, 2 and 3 d) 1 and 3 Q.6) Since the advent of the antibiotic “superdrug” in the 1940s, a new villain, the “superbug” has emerged and has been making national and international headlines over the past two decades. Consider the following Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) Drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR- and XDR-TB) Drug-resistant Enterococcus Drug-resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae Which of the above falls under the category of ‘Superbug’? a) 1, 3 and 4 b) 2, 3 and 4 c) 1, 2 and 3 d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.7) Consider the following regarding ‘Uranium’ production in the world India is among top 5 uranium producing countries in the world Kazakhstan produces the largest share of uranium from mines followed by Australia and Canada World’s maximum uranium production comes from underground mining Select the incorrect code a) Only 1 b) 1 and 3 c) 1, 2 and 3 d) None Q.8) Why does the Sun appear white in colour at noon? A little of the blue colour is scattered. Blue colour is scattered the most Red colour is scattered the most All the colours are scattered away Q.9) Consider the following regarding ‘The Natural Resources Data Management System (NRDMS) Programme’ It was launched with the objectives of developing and demonstrating scientific methods and techniques for national level planning Ministry of Environment and Forest is the nodal agency to govern its function and proper execution Select the correct code a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both d) None Q.10) Consider the following regarding sunrise and sunset The time difference between actual sunrise and sunset is 4 minutes This is because of the phenomenon of Total Internal Reflection The apparent flattening of the Sun’s disc at sunrise and sunset is due to atmospheric refraction. Select the incorrect code a) Only 1 b) Only 3 c) 1 and 2 d) 1, 2 and 3   Q.11) Consider the following statements It is not a member of United Nations but a member of IMF and World Bank It declared its independence from Serbia It is a landlocked country It is one of the Muslim majority territories on European mainland Identify the country? a) Albania b) Kosovo c) Bosnia d) Slovenia Q.12) Acid attacks are one of the most gruesome kind of acts causing not only physical harm to the victim but psychological and emotional harm as well. Which of the following steps should be taken to reduce the effect of acid on the skin? Burnt area should be washed with clean water or slightly saline water Burnt are should be washed with milk. Milk is basic and neutralizes acid. Burnt area should be washed with a strong base to quickly neutralize it so that it does not react further. Select the code from the following: a) 1 only b) 1 and 2 c) 1 and 3 d) All of the above   Q.13) Mitochondria is an organelle found in most of the cells. It is known as the powerhouse of the cell. Which of the following statements are correct related to mitochondria? The biochemical processes of respiration and energy production occurs here. Mitochondrial disease can pass to a progeny only through mothers in human beings. Three parent baby is a technique used to prevent the transfer of mitochondrial defect to the babies. Select the correct code from the following: a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) 1 and 3 d) All of the above   Q.14) Which of the following forces are not the example of contact forces? Friction force Electrostatic force Magnetic force Gravitational force Air resistance force Select the code from the following: a) 1 only b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 c) 2, 3 and 4 d) 2, 4 and 5   Q.15) Consider the following statements about Jal-Tarang: It is an Indian percussion instrument. It consists of ceramic or metal bowls tuned by putting different amount of water in them. It is played by hitting the bowls with sticks. Which of the above statements are correct? a) 2 and 3 b) All of the above c) 1 and 3 d) None of the above   Q.16) The 2014 Nobel Prize for physics has been awarded to a trio of scientists in Japan and the US for the invention of blue light emitting diodes (LEDs). Why the invention of blue LED was so special? It was the first LED to be invented. Together with Green and red LED, white light could be produced. Blue LED is the most difficult to make as it uses, Gallium nitride and not Gallium Phosphide. Select the correct code from the following: a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) 1 and 3 d) All of the above   Q.17) Pole star is amongst the most useful stars for humans because of its fixed location in the sky. Consider the following statements with respect to pole star: Pole star is helpful in finding the north direction in night and helped in navigation in ancient times. Pole star can be pointed with the help of Ursa Major constellation. Pole star is not visible in the Southern Hemisphere. Which of the above statements are correct? a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) 1 and 3 d) All of the above   Q.18) In cricket, the bowlers are now mastering the art of ‘reverse swinging’ the ball. This helps them to take the pitch out of the equation, and move the ball in the air. Which of the following statements are correct about ‘reverse swing’? For reverse swing to happen the ball needs to be rough on one side and shiny on the other. The ball moves towards the shining side. Due to friction, the air pressure on the rough side is less and shiny side is more. Select the code from the following: a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) 1 and 3 d) All of the above   Q.19) Consider the following situation: If an object is released from a moving train, the object will go: a) In the opposite direction of the moving train. b) In the same direction of the moving train. c) It will fall straight downwards. d) None of the above   Q.20) Steam burns are more severe than the burns caused by boiling water because: a) The temperature of steam is higher than the boiling water. b) Steam contains latent heat. c) Steam hits the body with a pressure while water does not. d) The given statement is false. Q.21) Which of the following statements about ‘Amber’ are correct? It is a fossilized tree resin. It is helpful in paleontology as it contains preserved specimens of plants and insects. It is highly sought after because of its vibrant colour and is used in jewelry. Amber is used as an ingredient in perfumes and healing agent in folk medicines. Select the code from the following: a) 1 and 2 b) 1 and 3 c) 2,3 and 4 d) All of the above   Q.22) Consider the following with respect to Nilgai Nilgai is endemic to Indian subcontinent It is the largest antelope in Asia It is vulnerable as per IUCN red list Select the correct answer using the codes given below a) 1 and 3 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) All Q.23) Consider the following countries Honduras Belize El Salvador Select the countries not bordering Mexico a) 1 and 3 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) All border Mexico Q.24) Consider the following statements with respect to “SURYAMITRA” Mobile App It is developed by National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE) SURYAMITRA is a skill development program designed to create skilled manpower in installation, commissioning, and Operation & Maintenance of solar power plants and equipment. Select the correct option a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.25) “Hand in Hand” is a joint military exercise conducted between which of the following two countries a) India and Sri Lanka b) Sri Lanka and China c) China and India d) China and Bangladesh Q.26) Consider the following statements regarding “Gold monetisation Scheme” Its objective is to mobilize unutilized gold from individuals, households and institutions and make them available to gold-base industries The tenure of gold deposits is likely to be for a minimum of two years. The minimum quantity of deposits is pegged at 10 gram to encourage even small deposits Choose the incorrect answer using the code given below a) 1 and 3 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 2 only d) All the above Download the Solution- Click here P.S- Attempt these questions within 20 minutes with full honesty and write your results in the comment box. Next day, come back and check your result. You can also discuss the important concepts and issues, in case of doubts (among peers) All the best IASbaba