Jun 7, 2016 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance: Book Review – The Wealth of Nations – Adam Smith

The Wealth of Nations At about 1200 pages, ‘The Wealth of Nations’ is arguably the most comprehensive and complete understanding of the economic background and history of the modern world. ‘The Wealth of Nations’ explores the origin of the modern economic system, which has its roots in the ancient trade and exchange system. The book is a thorough and systematic analysis of the role of currency and its evolution. The book gives a thorough and readable narration about the systems of labor, taxes, wages, market and economy. This book is a delight for economists as it explores some of the most complex economic theories in the simplest possible way. ‘The Wealth of Nations’ can be credited with the fabulous task of simplifying the complex structures of economic theory for the understanding and education of a common mind. Every lay man can understand and comprehend the ideas explored here. Read this book to acquire the wealth of knowing about the wealth of the world. Where did all this come from; what are the important circumstances and events that shape our world; where are we headed and how will the future of economy look? ‘The Wealth of Nations’ by Adam Smith is almost a guide book for economists. You cannot miss this book if you have any interest in world economy. “This Book Review is a copyright of The Ahamo Movement and IASBABA.”

Jun 7, 2016 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 7th June, 2016

Archives   IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 7th June, 2016   NATIONAL    TOPIC: General studies 1: Urbanization and related issues General studies 2: Local government & related issues Important aspects of governance and e-governance Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.   For creating “Vibrant Cities”: Decentralise and Empower City Governments   Municipal Governance: Background In 1992, India took some early steps to recognize metropolitan regions as agglomerations requiring coordinated economic and spatial planning. Towards this end it also passed the 74th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1992 74th constitutional amendment added Part IX-A to the Constitution of India. It is entitled as ‘The Municipalities’. The constitutional amendment inserted provisions from Articles 243-P to 243-ZG. In addition, it also added Twelfth Schedule to the Constitution. It contains 18 functional items of municipalities listed under Article 243-W. It gave constitutional status to the municipalities and brought them under the purview of judicial review. In other words, the state governments are under a constitutional obligation to add this new system of municipalities in accordance with the provisions of the Act. The Act aims at revitalizing and strengthening the urban governments so that they may function as effective units of local government. But progress thereafter has been limited.   How to bolster metropolitan governance? Sustained efforts on three fronts are needed to bolster metropolitan governance: Establish a powerful and effective Metropolitan Planning Committee (MPC) Add three important functions—housing, transport and police – to the 12th schedule India should consider moving to the system of a ‘directly elected mayor’   First, make MPC effective and powerful: Article 243ZE mandates the establishment of the Metropolitan Planning Committee (MPC) to prepare a draft development plan focusing on shared resources, investments, infrastructure and environmental conservation for the region as a whole for approval by the state government. But the MPC has failed to take off for two reasons. One, state governments are reluctant to concede power. Two, the design of the MPC as a supra-municipal authority has limitations. Being a body politic, the MPC does not have executive powers, staff and budgets. These shortcomings render it toothless. Some states have recommended reforms in Municipal Authority., where it wants to establish a Metropolitan Development Authority, which will be chaired by the chief minister and will have overriding powers on all matters ranging from economics to planning. It wants this body to be managed by an IAS officer who will be the de facto commissioner in charge of day-to-day affairs and suggests for participation from different quarters – such as MLAs, the chief secretary and other concerned secretaries. However well intentioned, such reforms will increasingly consolidate the powers of the state government and, will in turn, stunt decentralization The larger peril is that this could have a contagion effect across states, because there are absolutely no reasons to substantiate why successive chief ministers would want to cede control of such “a mother of all agglomerations”. Second, add three functions to the 12th Schedule: Despite Article 243W in the 12th Schedule, city governments lack the span of control required to administer cities effectively. In other words, the 12th Schedule is incomplete in mandating the transfer of functions to local bodies. It remains completely silent on three important functions—housing, transport and police. Consequently, state governments continue to hold these functions. This control provides state governments with unrestrained power over capital-intensive sectors, indirectly enabling them to control cities. Therefore, it is important to add these functions to the 12th schedule, so the Municipal bodies can perform their functions independently without any subjugation by the state governments. Third, move to a directly elected mayoral system of urban governance: Some state governments are recommending restructuring the Municipality, by splitting the city into different municipalities, each to be governed by a elected mayor. However, it would have been better off recommending a metropolitan mayor and government for the city as whole rather than different mayors who, when elected, could represent different political parties. Result would be chaos. Because politically fragmented, contiguous areas sharing civic amenities could be held hostage to political differences and potentially result in a stalemate and deteriorate the quality of life across the metropolitan region. Unfortunately, India is one of the few parliamentary democracies in the world yet to make the shift to the system of a directly elected mayor. Over time, India must consider moving to the system of a directly elected mayor similar to London.   The way ahead: A more democratic approach would be to create a metropolitan-level authority that ensures horizontal coordination by providing the MPCs with a full-time secretariat that has teeth, that is, staff, budgets and executive powers. This body (MPC) could act as an additional layer of government between the municipal bodies and the state government, and eventually the municipal commissioners could report to the metropolitan commissioner in addition to their elected governments to facilitate coordinated governance. Further, the MPC could draw participation from members of Parliament. Such composition would provide sufficient balance of power at the city level and ensure the central government has some stake in metropolitan cities as defined in the Constitution. In essence, India’s democratic set-up could suitably ensure independence of its metropolitan cities.   Conclusion: India is on course to have 69 metropolitan cities by 2025, and many of these cities are likely to equal the size of some countries today. For example, by 2030, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region will be more populous than Australia and, with its GDP at about $230 billion in 2030, its economy will be bigger than that of Thailand or Hong Kong today. To embark on this journey, parliamentarians across party lines need to work on a constitutional amendment that lays out the road map for urban governance reform. Supplementing this process with a vibrant and inclusive process of dialogue across stakeholders is vital to build consensus. India’s experiences show that the passage of path-breaking reforms, for example, the goods and services tax, requires a decade or more, for dialogue and passage. This makes acting with urgency a necessity.   IASbaba’s view: India needs a 10 Point Urban Reform Programme that has the ability to transform urban India, and visibly enhance the quality of life for its citizens. Reform the 74th Constitutional Amendment to empower city governments, bolster the metropolitan system of government, and move to a system of a directly elected mayor. Fix governance at the Centre and in the states to reduce fragmentation and facilitate alignment of functions. Make the office of the mayor politically relevant to create a culture of meritocracy and performance. Build world-class institutions to catalyse capacity at scale. Establish a National Urban Finance Corporation of India to fund urban infrastructure projects. Set up the regulatory architecture required to facilitate efficient and effective urban services delivery. Reform the civil service, and establish executive agencies to hollow out inefficiencies. Revitalize the role of the State Finance Commissions to bolster municipal finances. Introduce state-specific laws on land use and transport to override legislative vacuum. Deepen citizen engagement in cities to drive change across localities. Connecting the dots: Critically analyze the working of ‘City Governments’ in India. What immediate actions should India take to embark its journey of transforming the growing metropolitan cities into more sustainable and vibrant cities? There is an urgent need to reform the 74th Constitutional Amendment to empower city governments, bolster the metropolitan system of government, and move to a system of a directly elected mayor. Do you agree? Elaborate on your opinion.    ENVIRONMENT   TOPIC: General studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation General studies 3: Infrastructure: Energy; Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation   Mobilising Inputs for Renewable Energies With the new set of environmental challenges and their perceived dangers, there is an urgent need for India to develop a range of innovative environmental technologies to help increase its energy security, reduce the adverse impacts on the local environment, lower its carbon intensity, contribute to more balanced regional development, and realize its aspirations for leadership in high-technology industries. But for them to achieve their market potential—proper policy frameworks and financial instruments are necessary that give financiers the necessary assurance and incentives to shift investment away from carbon-emitting conventional technologies to large-scale investment in clean energy systems And to achieve these goals, India needs an order-of-magnitude increase in renewable energy growth enhancing the creation of an enabling environment for renewable energy development, while at the same time, not compromising on the environmental integrity that should be maintained. Critical elements to mobilize inputs for developing countries: Building innovative financial instruments— Global trade in wind turbines, water filters and other environmental goods amounts to nearly $1 trillion annually but are increasingly stifled by the high tariffs which put limitations on many countries in terms of accessing these technologies. Huge capital investment is required— around $95-100 billion equivalent of investments (at Rs 65/USD) to meet the 100 GW target of 2022 (current outstanding bank credit to the entire Indian power sector (conventional and RE) is $85 billion equivalent) Removing unnecessary taxes is the need of the hour for which forty-four countries under the World Trade Organization are working towards an Environmental Goods Agreement (EGA) that would eliminate tariffs on environmentally friendly goods — Affordable green technology solutions Spur Innovation Boost trade Protect the environment Studies on EGA— EGA could boost global exports of environmental technologies by up to $119 billion annually European Union projects a potential reduction of nearly 10 million tonnes of carbon dioxide by 2030 Creating strong financial institutions— Collective actions of Developed countries and International financial institutions to— Leverage private capital Build policy incentives for directing private finance to developing countries Create an investment-conducive environment Develop capacity building mechanism and knowledge sharing programs, Establish development and education strategies Provide incentive-based governance mechanisms to attract investors Developing green energy projects— Government should realize that the transition to a green pathway is becoming financially viable and there is a need to provide frameworks for green growth that can lower policy uncertainties—by fostering a favourable policy environment for investors. Solving Technical challenges— In integrating intermittent power generation via solar and wind, with conventional grids Grid-balancing needs to get smarter Requirement of smart solutions for net metering i.e., adjusting power bills to reflect RE generated and be put on the grid by the consumer Bridging the Skill Gap— High-quality and accessible certification programmes—reducing the need for and costs of on-site training Under Skill India, renewable energy training clusters could be located near ongoing solar energy projects. At least one prominent solar training institute could be established in each region projected to be a hub for major solar activity (e.g., Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Karnataka). Introduction of mobile training courses, where trainers move from one location to another, would add value The most challenging skills to find—basic construction and commissioning skills, including electricians and PV installation technicians for which training programmes focused on fundamental construction, commissioning and operations skills should be expanded across the country. The International Solar Alliance can establish certified training programmes and help to build common curricula in close consultation with the private sector, and make the workforce qualified for deployment within India and outside Connecting the Dots Write a short note on ‘mezzanine finance’ and its future in India. Are investment conditions for renewable energy in India appealing enough? Suggest the way ahead.   MUST READ Clear the air on FDI in retail Hindu Related Articles: The Big Picture – FDI in E-Commerce – whom will it Benefit? TLP – 2016   Sailing into the Indo-Pacific Indian Express   Benefits of digitising insurance Livemint   Can India capitalize on its digital advantage? Livemint   Post-legislative scrutiny to improve quality of laws Livemint   Bad loans and the end of good lending Business Line MIND MAPS   1. Army's Ammunition Depots

Jun 7, 2016 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

Very Important: CLARIFICATION on Prelims 60 Days Plan [Day 1 to Day 10]

Hello Friends Thank You for the patience and support. Here in this document we have tried our best to consolidate all the genuine doubts, errors from our side and ambiguity in the questions. There were many other doubts which were rectified by peers and there were no errors in those questions. Download the File- Click here   P.S- Day 11 to Day 20 will be posted on time :)

Jun 6, 2016 PIB

IASbaba Press Information Bureau (PIB)- 30th May to 5th June, 2016

ARCHIVES   GS-2 Inaugurate Exhibition-cum-Sale of Handicraft and Handloom Products from the North Eastern states (Topic: Government efforts for promotion of Handicrafts and Handloom Products) Exhibition-cum-Sale of Handicraft and Handloom products from the North Eastern States of India First organized effort to bring modern ready-made garment industry in the North East, and a significant step towards the Make in India initiative of the Government. Project comes under the North-East Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS)—will develop entrepreneurship through various capacity building measures and also train the people to work efficiently on high-end garment machines. Each Apparel and Garment Making Centre set up under the initiative is estimated to generate direct employment for 1,200 people. Help develop an ecosystem that will trigger further investments and employment Dilli Haat stall, devoted exclusively to the North East, has been set up on permanent basis by the North Eastern Handicrafts and Handlooms Development Corporation Ltd (NEHHDC) to give further boost to the development and promotion of North East handicrafts and handloom products. PM has also encouraged setting up of Start-Ups and hoped that exhibitions like this will promote new ventures in cottage industry in the NER. Launched a Coffee Table book titled “Celebrating Cottage – A Tribute to Indian Crafts and Craftpersons” and a "Cottage Mobile App". The Exhibition-cum-Sale of exclusive products, specially created by award-winning craft persons, master craft persons and Shilp-Gurus from North Eastern States of India, is being organised by the Central Cottage Industries Corporation of India (CCI) Ltd at the CCI Emporium. Ambit of products showcased in the exhibition include a wide range of high quality handcrafted and authentic range of bamboo handicrafts, grass handicrafts, cane handicrafts, handloom textiles & made ups, pottery and jewellery, representing the crafts traditions and cultural ethos of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim.   Workshop on Pre-Retirement counselling on ‘Sankalp’ and ‘Anubhav’ (Topic: Government schemes and policies and their implementation) Department of Pension and Pensioners' Welfare-   Besides dealing with the pension policy of Central Government Employees, has also been trying to ensure a purposeful and dignified life for retiring employees. For this purpose Pre-Retirement Counselling Workshops are organized wherein the retiring employees are counselled on issues regarding steps and precaution to ensure timely payment of their retirement dues CGHS/medical facilities available after retirement and other related issues- encouragement to employees to involve themselves in the social activities by using the time and skill available with them. Workshop will help- Provide motivation and guidance to the retiring employees to prepare their Will for smooth transition of their Estates and other assets, as the retiring Government employees get a lump-sum amount by way of gratuity, PF accumulations and commuted value of pension. Told about the safe investment options available to them where they could put their financial retirement benefits to meet their future needs.   Cabinet approves MoU’s between India and Qatar (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) For strengthening cooperation in the field of Tourism   To create favourable conditions for-> Long-term co-operation in the field of tourism for the mutual benefits. To exchange-> Expertise + Publications + Information/data and statistics related to tourism. To encourage cooperation through-> Exchange of programmes + Propaganda and advertising materials + Publications + Films + Promotion + Marketing of their tourism products via media etc. To exchange visits of ->Tour Operators / Media /Opinion Makers for promotion of two way tourism. To encourage -> Co-operation between tourism sectors + Tour operators + Travel agents and other tourism private sector's firms and bureaus in the two countries. To encourage -> Public and the private sectors to invest in tourism. For cooperation in Skill Development and Recognition of qualifications  MoU facilitate- Workforce mobility Skill development and placement of youth in overseas jobs in Qatar Co-operation and Mutual Assistance in Customs Matters Aim- To entering into a bilateral Agreement on co-operation Customs matters between India and Qatar Agreement will help in- Availability of relevant information for the prevention and investigation of Customs offences. Agreement is also expected to facilitate trade and ensure efficient clearance of goods traded between the countries. India and Qatar Relation- Qatar is an important trading partner of India; Trade between the two countries has been expanding over the years. In view of the steady growth in bilateral trade, it was felt imperative to provide- A legal framework for sharing of information and intelligence between the Customs authorities of the two countries to help in proper application of Customs laws Prevention and investigation of Customs offences To facilitate legitimate trade It takes care of Indian Customs' concerns and requirements, particularly in the area of exchange of information on correctness of the Customs value declared, the authenticity of certificates of origin of goods and the description of the goods traded between the two countries.   Cabinet approves MoU between USA and India to enhance cooperation in wildlife conservation (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) Aim- To enhance cooperation in the field of wildlife conservation and combating wildlife trafficking. India’s benefit- India will benefit from the expertise of the US Institutions in the field of – Wildlife conservation and management of wildlife areas Combating illegal trade of wildlife and their derivatives.   Areas of cooperation- Wildlife Forensics and Conservation Genetics: Useful in species conservation efforts and better scientific evidence collection in wild life crimes leading to better enforcement. Natural World Heritage Conservation: Facilitating the institutional capacity of the existing UNESCO Category -2 - centre at Wildlife Institute of India Nature Interpretation and Conservation Awareness: Use of information technology in strengthening interface of forest managers with the people for sensitising people, especially the youth and children in understanding complex issues of conservation of biological diversity.                                       Chennai Metro Rail Project Phase-I  (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) About- Union Cabinet under the Chairmanship of Prime Minister has given its ex-post facto approval to the proposal for Chennai Metro Rail Phase-I Project from Washermanpet to Wimconagar. Covers a length of- 9.051 km. Benefit- Extension will provide improved access to public transport for dense population comprising predominantly industrial workers to move towards the central business district of the city for work.     Amendment to the Resolutions – Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) Proposed amendments are as under- Selection of candidates from State Public Enterprises and Private Sector as non-internal candidates for a period of five years for appointment in Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) Holding of office by the Chairperson and Members of the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) for a period of 3 years from assumption of charge or until attaining the age of 65 years or until further orders whichever is earlier.   Benefits- To provide a wider pool of professionals for selection by impact allowing the candidates from State Public Sector Enterprises (SPSEs) and private Sector to be considered for senior positions in the Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs). Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) would also benefit by the skill-sets and domain expertise of those coming from the State Public Sector Enterprises (SPSEs) as well the private sector. It would also ensure that the Central PSE senior management gets the benefit of the perspective gained both within and outside.   MOU between the Directorate General of Civil Aviation of India (DGCA) and the French Civil Aviation Authority (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) It is to- Implement Technical Cooperation Programme for promotion and implementation of Standards and Recommended Practices of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Technical programme will be beneficial for- Enhancement of skills and expertise of DGCA’s officers Implementation of the cooperation between the two parties for imparting training of- Engineers + Technicians + Managers Etc. To cooperate through the following actions- By exchanging information concerning the various techniques used to reach the objectives By sending French experts or instructors to India for training missions By receiving experts, or instructors of India, in France for training missions.   Universal Identity Cards for the Persons with Disabilities (Topic: Welfare schemes and policies for disabled persons) About- Union Government is ready with Universal Identity cards for the persons with disabilities. UIPWD- All the preparatory work has been done including design of the card by National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad. Very soon these will be passed on to the States for the distribution. State Governments have been asked to gear themselves up to identify the persons with disabilities in their respective states, so that within one and half year all the disabled persons can have universal identity cards. Cards will be linked with the Aadhar card and data will be available online which will ensure transparency. Help the persons with disabilities to avail all Government schemes and reservation. These Cards will be recognisable by all the States. Steps taken- State governments to launch a campaign from next academic year to identify such students, to award them scholarships. To avoid any delay and leakages his ministry has adopted DBT channel to pass on the scholarships. To provide skill training to about 25 lakh the persons with disabilities and to arrange finance through NHFDC to economically empower them. Under Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan, States were advised to give approval for the building plan only when it has accessibility provisions for the persons with disabilities as per recently issued NBCC code. State Governments to identify public utility buildings, to carry out access audit and making it disabled friendly. Plan has been prepared to make about 3000 identified Union Government and State Government sites accessible to the persons with disabilities. 650 such sites already have been made accessible for the persons with disabilities.   Short term Yoga programmes included in Tourist Visa and e-Tourist Visa  (Topic: Government steps for promotion of tourism and yoga)        About- Ministry of Home Affairs has taken a decision to include short term yoga programmes in Tourist Visa and e-Tourist Visa. Outcome of- Realizing the spread and importance of yoga world over, the Government has decided to include “attending a short term yoga programme” in the list of permissible activities under Tourist Visa. Besides, the Government has decided to include “attending a short term yoga programme” and “short duration medical treatment under Indian systems of medicine” in the list of permissible activities under e-Tourist Visa.   Presently- Tourist Visa is granted to a foreigner whose sole objective of visiting India is-> Recreation + Sightseeing + Casual visit to meet friends or relatives E-Tourist Visa is granted to a foreigner whose sole objective of visiting India is-> Recreation + Sightseeing + Casual visit to meet friends or relatives + Short duration medical treatment or casual business visit. All Indian Mission abroad and Foreigners Regional Registration Officers (FRROs)/ Foreigners Registration Officers (FROs) in the country have been requested to take action as per above amendments. WCD Ministry to hold first ever “All India Women Journalists’ Workshop” (Topic: Governmental steps for women development) About- Ministry of Women and Child Development, in association with Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is organizing the first ever “All India Women Journalists’ Workshop” on 7th June, 2016 at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. Women journalists’ represent- Print and electronic and online media across the country including small and regional media organizations AIWJW- Conference will bring together 250 journalists from all parts of the country together on a single platform Conference will be a unique gathering of women journalists, who specialize in social sector reporting, coming together to understand, discuss and deliberate on issues concerning women and children. Ministry of Women and Child Development will be showcasing the achievements during the last two years and also obtain a feedback on a number of issues concerning women and children especially on the recently released Draft National Policy for Women, Draft Anti Trafficking Bill, Draft Regulations under JJ Act. Ministry is also looking forward to new ideas/ areas concerning women and children which could be taken up in the coming months.   GS-3 ‘Kalpana Chawla Chair’ on Geospatial Technology for Indian Railways (Topic: Science and Technology) About- MoU between Ministry of Railways and PEC University of Technology for setting up of ‘Kalpana Chawla Chair’ on Geospatial Technology for Indian Railways at PEC University of Technology, Chandigarh.   Objective- To encourage research activities in Geo-spatial Technology and to strengthen Indian Railways especially Railway projects where use of remote sensing data, global positioning system (GPS) and Geographical information System (GIS) is predominant. Help- Indian Railways to develop in house solutions to the problems which are often outsourced to western countries In developing applications to remove day to day engineering and technological problems and geospatial solutions to Indian Railways Kalpana Chawla Chair-  Academic chair is being instituted in fond memory of Late Kalpana Chawla, an Indo – American Astronaut and Alumnus of PEC during the year 1978-82 . She was incidentally the first woman of Indian origin in space. To honour her contributions in Aerospace Engineering Indian Railways decided to institute the academic chair in the area of Geo-spatial Technology in her alma mater.   Mission Innovation and Clean Energy Ministerial (Topic: Science and technology) CEM Member representing- Energy Ministers from Nations with 90% of Clean Energy Investments and 75% of GHG Emissions. Focus on- Advancing Clean Energy Cooperation and Implementing PRIS Agreement Commitments. Agreed to launch- An enhanced effort called – “ CEM 2.0”- To increase its effectiveness by creating an International Secretariat to support CEM initiative. Launched- Three new high-impact campaigns that will promote the procurement of electricity from->    Renewable Energy Commercial and industrial energy efficiency Advanced cooling technologies Mission Innovation MI was announced on November 30, 2015 by the leaders of 20 countries that have a shared desire to accelerate global clean energy innovation during COP 21 in Paris. The ‘Mission Innovation’ (MI) is an effort to accelerate public and private global clean energy innovation, including through participating countries doubling their respective clean energy research and development investment Concerted effort to enhance the pace of innovation and scale of transformation through this clean energy revolution launch to meet the requirement for economic, energy security goals in timely manner. India is Founding Member of the Steering Committee and also a Member of the two sub-groups: Joint research and Capacity Building and Private Sector Engagement. During the meeting, India will be announcing its current investment and doubling Plan in Clean Energy Research. Formal announcement on new Joint collaborations with Mission Innovation Countries will also be made by the Minister.   Clean Energy Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) is a high-level global forum to share lessons learnt and best practices, and to encourage the transition to a global clean energy economy. Initiatives are based on areas of common interest among participating Governments and other stakeholders. CEM is the initiative of the USA. Presently, 23 countries are members of CEM. There are 13 initiatives under CEM covering energy efficiency, clean energy supply and cross cutting areas. Since its launch in 2010, the Clean Energy Ministerial (CEM) has come a long way. Its various initiatives were instrumental in leading significant collaborative work amongst members in context of clean energy supply, demand side management and relevant cross cutting issues. During the 7thClean Energy Ministerial the Minister for Science & Technology and Earth Sciences will also launch the Global Cooling Challenge.   India Signs Grant Agreement with IBRD—Global Environment Facility for Efficient and Sustainable City Bus Service Project  (Topic: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment) About- An agreement for Global Environmental Facility (GEF) Grant of USD 9.20 Million with the World Bank for "Efficient and Sustainable City Bus Service Project" was signed. Representatives from- Ministry of Urban Development and State Governments of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Chandigarh (UT) were also present on the occasion. Objective- To improve the efficiency and attractiveness of city bus transport and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the demonstration cities. It comprises- A national capacity building component to be implemented by Ministry of Urban Development (MoUD); City demonstration projects in the cities of Bhopal, Chandigarh, Jaipur and Mira Bhayandar.   National Disaster Management Plan (Topic: Disaster and disaster management) About- PM released the National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP), this is the first ever national plan prepared in the country. Aim- To make India disaster resilient and significantly reduce the loss of lives and assets Plan is based on the four priority themes of the “Sendai Framework,” namely- Understanding disaster risk, Improving disaster risk governance Investing in disaster risk reduction (through structural and non-structural measures) and disaster preparedness Early warning and building back better in the aftermath of a disaster.   Salient Features of the Plan- Plan covers all phases of disaster management-> Prevention + Mitigation + Response + Recovery. It provides for-> Horizontal + Vertical integration among all the agencies and departments of the Government. Plan also spells out the roles and responsibilities of all levels of Government right up to Panchayat and Urban Local Body level in a matrix format. Plan has a regional approach, which will be beneficial not only for disaster management but also for development planning. Designed in such a way that it can be implemented in a scalable manner in all phases of disaster management. Identifies major activities such as-> Early warning + Information dissemination + Medical care + Fuel + Transportation + Search and rescue + Evacuation, etc. Aim- To serve as a checklist for agencies responding to a disaster. Provides a generalized framework for recovery and offers flexibility to assess a situation and build back better. To prepare communities to cope with disasters, it emphasizes on a greater need for Information, Education and Communication activities.   Working Group on Maritime Situational Awareness (Topic: Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organised crime with terrorism) About- The 19th Plenary Session of the Contact Group on Piracy off the Coast of Somalia (CGPCS) took place in Mahe, Seychelles during 31 May – 3 June 2016. India’s taking over as co-chair of- Working Group on Maritime Situational Awareness is in recognition of its pro-active role in combating the problem of piracy off the Somalian Coast and in the Indian Ocean Region. CGPCS- Seychelles is the current chairman of the CGPCS for the biennium 2016-17 CGPCS was set up as a group of interested and affected nations, industry associations and multilateral agencies to take pro-active steps for checking piracy in the Indian Ocean region through a UN Security Council resolution. In its 7 year of working the Contact Group has been able to effectively deal with the issues relating to piracy off the coast of Somalia. CGPCS has been spearheading its efforts through four Working Groups (WGs) focused on-> Capacity Building on legal + Judicial framework and processes + Poverty alleviation in Somalia + Improving Maritime Situational Awareness in Indian Ocean Region + Coordinating efforts for Disrupting Piracy Networks. Indian Navy and Coast Guard have played a very important role by- Enhanced patrolling in the high seas and providing armed naval escorts to ships moving in the area. Other countries and organisations such as EU, US-led Combined Maritime Forces, NATO, China, Russia, Japan and South Korea have also significantly contributed to increased alertness and patrolling in the region due to which the piracy problem has been largely contained. To protect Indian ships and Indian citizens employed in sea-faring duties, Indian Navy commenced anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Aden from 23 October 2008. In addition to escorting Indian-flagged ships, ships of other countries have also been escorted by the Indian Navy. Merchant ships are currently being escorted along the entire length (490 nm long and 20 nm wide) of the Internationally Recommended Transit Corridor (IRTC) which is heavily patrolled by Indian Navy vessels. According to information received more than 25 IN ships are deployed for patrolling, escorting ships and in anti-piracy mission in the Gulf of Aden. To maintain high degree of alertness in the region, around 19 coastal security operations and exercises have been undertaken over the past year.   Afghan-India Friendship Dam (Topic: Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, and Railways) About- PM jointly inaugurated the Afghan-India Friendship Dam (Salma Dam) Project executed and implemented by- WAPCOS Ltd., a Government of India Undertaking under Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Afghan-India Friendship Dam- It is a multipurpose project planned for generating 42 MW of power, irrigating 75000 hectares of land, water supply and other benefits to the people of Afghanistan. Salma Dam is a landmark infrastructure project undertaken by Government of India on river Hari Rud, in Herat province of Afghanistan. Project is located 165 km east of Herat town and connected with earthen road. Due to security reasons Indian engineers and technicians involved with the project have been reaching the site once in a month by helicopter service provided by Government of Afghanistan. All equipment and material were transported from India to Bander-e-Abbas port of Iran via sea and then along 1200 km by road from there to Islam Kila border post at Iran-Aghanistan border and then further 300 km by road from the border post to the site.   World’s Space Agencies unite to face the Climate Challenge (Topic: Climate change and challenges) Context- For the first time, under the impetus of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and the French Space Agency (CNES), space agencies of more than 60 countries agreed to engage their satellites, to coordinate their methods and their data to monitor human-induced greenhouse gas emissions. Aim- To inter-calibrate these satellite data so that they can be combined and compared over time (i.e. it is to make the transition to closely coordinated and easily accessible ‘big space data’). Importance of satellites- Without satellites, the reality of global warming would not have been recognised and the subsequent historic agreement at the United Nations headquarters in New York on April 22, 2016 would not have been signed. Out of the 50 essential climate variables being monitored today, 26 – including: Rising sea level Sea ice extent and greenhouse gas concentrations in all layers of the atmosphere - can be measured only from space. Key to effectively implementing the Paris Agreement lies in- Ability to verify that nations are fulfilling their commitments to curb greenhouse gas emissions and only satellites can do that. ISRO and CNES- World’s space agencies decided to establish “an independent, international system” to centralise data from their Earth-observing satellites through the ‘New Delhi Declaration’ that officially came into effect on May 16, 2016. Earth observation satellites provide a vital means of obtaining measurements of the climate system from a global perspective. ISRO is committed for the continuity of earth observation data, through the thematic series of satellites, with improvements en-route, to meet contemporary as well as future needs. ISRO is also engaging with CNES, JAXA and NASA for realising joint missions for global climate observation with advanced instruments.

Jun 6, 2016 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

IASbaba ’60 Day Plan- Prelims Test 2016 MODERN INDIA & CURRENT AFFAIRS [DAY 19]

Click here to get all the Tests- Archives Hello Friends Hope you are enjoying Daily questions. The link for Day 18 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 19] Q.1) Congress Session of Calcutta in the year 1906 after Bengal Partition was significant in many ways. Which of the following statements are correct about this Congress Session? It was presided by Dr. Rashbihari Ghosh. Congress adopted ‘Swaraj’ as the goal of Indian people. A resolution on partition of Bengal was passed. The Congress got split into moderates and extremists. Select the correct code from the following: a) 1,2 and 3 b) 2 and 3 c) 1,3 and 4 d) All of the above   Q.2) Home Rule league movement of 1916 played an important role in creating political awareness in masses and putting up a united front against the British rule. Consider the following statements regarding the Indian Home Rule League: It was designed on the lines of Irish Home Rule league. It was started first by Annie Besant and later by Bal Gangadhar Tilak. The aim of the league was to attain independence from the British rule and have self government. The two leagues cooperated with each other as well as with Congress and Muslim League. Tilak’s movement was concentrated in Maharashtra while Besant’s movement in rest of the country. Montague’s August declaration to gradually develop self governing institutions in India led to the end of Home rule Movement. Which of the above statements are correct? a) 1,2,3,4 and 5 b) 1,4,5 and 6 c) 1,3,4,5 and 6 d) 1,2,3,5 and 6 Q.3) On what charges were Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev and Rajguru sentenced to death? For throwing bomb in the assembly For killing of Asst. Superintendent of Police J.P. Saunders For Kakori Conspiracy case For the Hunger strike unto death in Lahore Central Jail Which of the above reasons are correct? a) 1 and 2 b) 2 only c) 2 and 3 d) 1,2 and 4 Q.4) In which of the following movements did Mahatma Gandhi undertook fast unto death for the first time to get his demands fulfilled? a) Champaran Satyagraha b) Kheda Satyagraha c) Ahmadabad mill strike d) Non-cooperation movement Q.5) Consider the following statements regarding ‘Khudai Khidmatgar’ movement: It was a non-violent freedom struggle against the British by pathans of North-West Frontier province. It was led by Maulana Abul Kalam Azad. The movement is also known as the ‘Red Shirt’ movement as the volunteers used to wear red shirts. Which of the above statements are correct? a) All of the above b) 1 and 2 c) 2 and 3 d) 1 and 3 Q.6) Who amongst the following personalities have won ‘Bharat Ratna’ award despite being a non-Indian citizen? Mother Teresa Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan Nelson Mandela Granville Austin Select the correct code from the following: a) 1,2 and 3 b) 2 and 3 c) 1,3 and 4 d) 3 only Q.7) After the August offer of 1940, the radicals and leftists wanted to start a mass civil disobedience movement. But Mahatma Gandhi insisted on individual Satyagraha. Which of the following statements are correct about individual satyagraha of 1940? It was not to seek independence but to affirm the right of speech. It was started by Acharya Vinoba Bhave first and then by Jawaharlal Nehru. Since it was not a mass movement, it attracted little enthusiasm and later in December, Gandhiji suspended it. 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.8) Consider the following statements: Leaders and influential personalities returned their honorary posts and titles. Students came out of Government educational institutions and national schools as Kashi Vidhyapeet, Bihar Vidyapeet and Jamia Millia Islamia were set up. People switched to swadeshi and took up charkha. Movement abruptly called off by a violent incident in Gorakhpur District. Which of the following mass movements is being discussed in the above statements? a) Swadeshi Movement 1905-06 b) Non-cooperation Movement 1921-22 c) Civil Disobedience movement 1929-30 d) Quit India Movement 1942   Q.9) The British government adopted the strategy of talking to different political parties by convening the Round Table Conferences. Which of the following statements are incorrect about these conferences? Congress boycotted the first round table conference and civil disobedience movement was going on in India. After Gandhi-Irwin pact the civil disobedience movement was called off and Ghandhiji attended the second round table conference. Civil disobedience movement was relaunched after second round table conference. Communal award was given in third round table conference. Select the code from the following: a) 4 only b) 3 and 4 c) 1 and 3 d) 1,2 and 3 Q.10) Which of the following slogans are correctly matched with the leaders who gave them?             Slogan                                                                                     Leader Do or Die                                                                            Mahatma Gandhi You give me blood, I’ll give you freedom                     Subhash Chandra Bose Dilli Chalo                                                                           Jawaharlal Nehru Swaraj is my birth right                                                   Bal Gangadhar Tilak Select the correct code from the following: a) All of the above b) 1,2 and 3 c) 2,3 and 4 d) 1,2 and 4 Q.11) The civil disobedience movement was started by Salt Satyagraha- by breaking the salt tax law. No one imagined that such a small thing would stir the emotions of the masses in India. Which of the following statements are correct about the salt satyagraha?  The salt march was started by Gandhi ji from his Sabarmati ashram to a coastal village of Dandi. The march was started with disciplined and trained volunteers of Sabarmati Ashram. The path of the march was kept secret from the authorities so that they do not cause a hindrance. The Salt Satyagraha in Madras was led by Sarojini Naidu. Select the code from the following: a) 1 and 2 b) 3 and 4 c) 1,2 and 4 d) All of the above Q.12) The Government of India Act of 1935 was passed on the basis of the report of the Simon Commission, the outcome of the Round Table Conferences and the White Paper issued by the British Government in 1933. This was one of the most comprehensive Acts that shaped the later Constitution of India. Which of the following was not a provision of this Act? a) It introduced diarchy at the provinces and provincial subjects were divided into ‘reserved subjects’ and ‘transferred subjects’. b) Division of power into three lists: Federal, provincial and concurrent. c) Provincial Legislatures of Bengal, Madras, Bombay, United Provinces, Bihar and Assam were made bicameral. d) Extension of the principle of Separate Electorates to Sikhs, Europeans, Indian Christians and Anglo Indians. Q.13) Consider the following statements regarding Rowlatt Act As per this act, any person could be arrested on the basis of suspicion Arrested person could file an appeal or petition against his arrest It was called the Black Act and was widely opposed Select the correct statements a) Only 1 b) 1 and 3 c) 2 and 3 d) All Q.14) Consider the statements regarding Nehru Report of 1928 List of Fourteen Points as Muslim League demands were put forward against Nehru Report It advocated provincial autonomy and bicameral legislature Select the incorrect code a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both d) None   Q.15) Consider the following statements and identify the personality associated with it He started the Indian National Union (1926) and the All India Nationalist Muslim Party (1929) Autobiographies like ‘Tazhiran’, ‘Ghubir-i-khatir’, ‘Kahani’ and ‘India wins Freedom’ belongs to him He started Al-Hilal, the Urdu Newspaper Correct code a) Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan b) A. Jinnah c) Maulana Abul Kalam Azad d) Liyaqat Ali Q.16) Which of the following is/are not a lake? Hunza Shyok Otteri Zaskar Chandratal Select the correct code a) Only 2 and 4 b) 1, 2 and 4 c) Only 1 and 2 d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.17) Consider the following Hague Convention- To amend Warsaw Convention Hague Code of Conduct- Ballistic Missile Proliferation Hague Agreement- International Registration of Industrial designs Hague Protocol- Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction Choose the incorrect match a) 1, 3 and 4 b) 3 and 4 c) 1 and 3 d) None Q.18) Select the correct statement a) River Rhone flows through Germany b) Germany borders with Slovenia, France and Switzerland c) Black Forest is a large forested mountain in southwestern Germany d) (b) and (c) are correct  Q.19) Identify the place referring to following statements It is one of the World Heritage Sites It is also known as Pearl of Desert and Tadmur It is an oasis Select the correct code a) Palmyra b) Cultural Landscape of Maymand c) Ephesus d) Susa   Q.20) Consider the following statements A winter festival is in the named after this It lies on the border of Arunanchal Pradesh and Myanmar It lies on the crest of Pitkai Hills Select the correct code a) Rohtang Pass b) Sela Pass c) Pangsau Pass d) Bum La Pass Q.21) Consider the following International organizations The European Organization for Nuclear Research The International Labour Organization (ILO) World Health Organization World Trade Organization Which of the following International Organization is located in Switzerland? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2, 3 and 4 only c) 1, 2, 3, and 4 d) 1 and 4 only Q.22) Consider the following The International Space Station (ISS) is a habitable artificial satellite, located in Medium Earth orbit. International Space Station can often be seen with naked eye The ISS serves as a microgravity and space environment research laboratory in which crew members conduct experiments in physics, astronomy, meteorology but not in the field of in biology and  human biology Select the correct option a) 1 and 3 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 2 only d) All Q.23) Consider the following statements The α-cells secretes a hormone called Insulin The β-cells secretes a hormone called glucagon Prolonged hyperglycemia leads to a complex disorder called diabetes mellitus Select the incorrect statement with respect to Diabetes a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 Q.24) Consider the following Glaciers Pindari Glacier Gangotri Glacier Panchchuli Glacier Which of the above glacier is present in the state of Himachal Pradesh? a) 1 and 3 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) None Q.25) Consider the following Interest payment Grants to States Defence Loans to public enterprises Loans to States Which of the following fall under Plan Expenditure? a) 1, 2 and 3 only b) 2, 3 and 4 only c) 1,3,4 and 5 only d) None of 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

Jun 6, 2016 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 6th June, 2016

Archives   IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 6th June, 2016   ENVIRONMENT    TOPIC: General Studies 1: Geography - Key natural resources across the world (including India), exploitation of natural resources General Studies 3: Environment and Ecology, Bio diversity - Conservation, environmental degradation, environmental impact assessment, Environment versus Development   New Draft Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2016 Wetlands: Wetlands are areas where water controls or regulates the environment, and any animal or plant life. They occur where the water table is at or near the surface of the land, or where land is covered by water. Wetlands are cradles of biological diversity and are among the world’s most productive environments. They provide water upon which countless species of plants and animals depend for survival. Wetlands support high concentrations of birds, mammals, reptiles, amphibian, fish and invertebrate species. They are also important storehouses of plant genetic material. Rice, for example, which is a common wetland plant, is the staple diet for more than half of humanity. There are six kinds of wetlands: Marine or coastal wetlands which include coastal lagoons, rocky shores, and coral reefs Estuarine wetlands including deltas, tidal marshes and mangrove swamps Lacustrine wetlands associated with lakes Riverine wetlands along rivers and streams Palustrine wetlands, essentially marshes, swamps and bogs Man-made wetlands like fish, shrimp and farm ponds, irrigated agricultural land, salt pans, reservoirs, gravel pits and canals. Functions of wetland Habitat to aquatic flora and fauna as well as numerous species of birds including migratory species Filtration of sediments and nutrients from surface water Nutrients recycling Water purification Floods mitigation Maintenance of steam flow Ground water recharging Provide drinking water, fish, fodder, fuel etc Control rate of runoff in urban areas Buffer shorelines against erosion Compromise an important resource for sustainable tourism, recreation and culture heritage Stabilisation of local climate Source of livelihood to local people Genetic reservoir for various species of plants Supporting specific diversity   Reasons for depletion Conversion of lands for agriculture Overgrazing Removal of sand from beds Aqua culture Habitat destruction and deforestation Pollution Domestic waste Agricultural runoff Industrial effluents Climate change Mitigation Survey and demarcation Protection of natural regeneration Artificial regeneration Protective measures Afforestation (percentage survival to be indicated) Weed control Soil conservation measures & afforestation Wildlife conservation Removal of encroachments Eutrophication abatement Environmental awareness Critical analysis of Draft Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2016 What the new rules intend to do? The government is all set to change the rules on wetlands. The new draft rules, is to replace the Wetland (Conservation and Management) Rules of 2010. The new draft Rules, 2016 seeks to give full authority to the States to decide what they must do with their wetlands and also to decide which wetlands should be protected and what activities should be allowed or regulated, while making affable calls for ‘sustainability’ and ‘ecosystem services’. Giving more power to the States: Will it be a viable solution? The new Draft Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2016 seek to give power to the States to decide what they must do with their wetlands. They can also decide on which wetlands should be protected and what activities should be allowed or regulated However, how states will identify and conserve the wetlands is not mentioned and required a rethink In addition to that, ‘three issues’ are of immediate concern: The draft does away with the Central Wetlands Regulatory Authority, which had suo moto cognizance (which could take action on its own) of wetlands and their protection. The draft rules contain no ecological criteria for recognising wetlands, such as biodiversity, reefs, mangroves, and wetland complexes. And finally it has deleted sections on the protection of wetlands, and interpretation of harmful activities which require regulation, which found reference in the 2010 rules. Case I: Experiments with water systems Off lately, we have heard/read several news in regard to efforts made at engineering water systems and augmenting water supply. But what is the need for the hour is, “strengthening the capacities of ecological systems”. There have been many recent attempts at this sort of engineering — For instance, Karnataka had dredged its rivers, now other States may follow suit. The Ken and Betwa rivers in Madhya Pradesh are to be interlinked, and we have a history of building dams and barrages to store water. Parliament has already passed a Waterways Act, which will make navigation channels of 111 rivers, by straightening, dredging, and creating barrages. All these above projects require serious ecological consideration and effective impact assessment. Environmental impacts due to these projects River dredging may increase the capacity of a river channel, but can also interfere with underground reservoirs. Over-dredging can destroy these reservoirs. River interlinking changes hydrology and can benefit certain areas from a purely anthropocentric perspective, but does nothing to augment water supply to other non-target districts. Constructions of barrages have impacts on ecosystems and economies: the commercially important hilsa fish are no longer found in the Padma river after the construction of the Farraka barrage across the Ganges. Case II: Experiments with Wetland systems would be fiercer In the case of wetlands like ponds, lakes and lagoons, the contestations are more fierce. Who owns the wetland is a common quandary — and what happens to the wetland also depends on this. Asia’s largest freshwater oxbow lake, the Kanwar lake in Bihar, has shrunk to one-third of its size due to encroachment, much like Jammu and Kashmir’s Dal lake. Water sources like streams, which go into lakes, also get cut off, as is the case of lakes in Bengaluru and streams in the Delhi Ridge. The political pressure to usurp water and wetlands as land is high — and for this reason, States have failed to secure perimeters and catchment areas or notify wetlands. Therefore, the new Draft Wetland Rules awarding full authority to the States will not be a viable solution to protect wetlands. The way ahead: Protecting wetlands is particularly a complex case and warrants more checks and balances. In the present proposed scenario, where there is an absence of scientific criteria for identifying wetlands, it is imperative to have a second independent functioning authority. What comprises a wetland is an important question that the Rules should answer. (which it has failed) Identifying/recognizing a wetland Historically, as wetlands did not earn revenue, they were marked as ‘wastelands’. There are lakhs of wetlands which still needs to be identified by the government. Significantly, the 2010 rules had outlined criteria for wetland identification including genetic diversity, outstanding natural beauty, wildlife habitats, corals, coral reefs, mangroves, heritage areas, and so on. The Ramsar Convention rules are the loftiest form of wetland identification that the world follows. Ramsar has specific criteria for choosing a wetland as a Ramsar site, which distinguishes it as possessing ‘international importance’. An important distinguishing marker is that Ramsar wetlands should support significant populations of birds, fish, or other non-avian animals. The new draft Rules 2016 has removed the ecological and other criteria for wetland identification and protection and also the examples of activities that could hamper this physical functioning. Use and non-use Regulation of activities on a wetland and their “thresholds” are to be left entirely to local or State functionaries. There are insufficient safeguards for the same, with the lack of any law-based scientific criteria or guidance. (The 2016 Draft Wetland Rules also call for wise use of wetlands. ‘Wise use’ is a concept used by the Ramsar Convention, and is open to interpretation) It could mean optimum use of resources for human purpose. It could mean not using a wetland so that we eventually strengthen future water security. It could also mean just leaving the wetland and its catchment area as is for flood control, carbon sequestration, and water recharge functions. Finally, in a country which is both water-starved as well as seasonally water-rich, it is not just politics and use that should dictate how wetlands are treated. Sustainability cannot be reached without ecology. Towards this end, our wetland rules need to reinforce wetlands as more than open sources of water, and there is a need to revise how wetlands should be identified and conserved. Connecting the dots: Critically analyze the newly drafted Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2016. Give your own suggestions what strategies can the Indian government adopt to protect the wetlands.   ECONOMICS TOPIC: General studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation   A Global puzzling phenomenon—Between Innovations & Productivity Productivity is commonly defined as a ratio between the output volume and the volume of inputs—measuring how efficiently production inputs, such as labour and capital, are being used in an economy to produce a given level of output Productivity is considered a key source of economic growth and competitiveness and, as such, is basic statistical information for many international comparisons and country performance assessments— To investigate the impact of product and labour market regulations on economic performance To assess demand and inflationary pressures Constitutes an important element for modelling the productive capacity of economies Allows analysts to determine capacity utilisation, which in turn allows one to gauge the position of economies in the business cycle and to forecast economic growth The Depressing Scenario of Productivity slowdown Since the global financial crisis erupted in 2008, productivity growth in the advanced economies has been very slow both in absolute terms and relative to previous decades. Earlier waves of innovation in technology and management strategies have been fully put into place across America and other developed countries but the results have been dismal—they are no longer increasing productivity. This perspective stood at crossroads with the new thinking-order of new innovations—that these innovations would herald an increase in productivity growth and improve the way we live and work. Breakthrough Innovations: ET (energy technologies, including new forms of fossil fuels such as shale gas and oil and alternative energy sources such as solar and wind, storage technologies, clean tech, and smart electric grids) BT (biotechnologies, including genetic therapy, stem cell research, and the use of big data to reduce health-care costs radically and allow individuals to live much longer and healthier lives) IT (information technologies, such as Web 2.0/3.0, social media, new apps, the Internet of Things, big data, cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and virtual reality devices) MT (manufacturing technologies, such as robotics, automation, 3D printing, and personalized manufacturing) FT (financial technologies that promise to revolutionize everything from payment systems to lending, insurance services and asset allocation) DT (defence technologies, including the development of drones and other advanced weapon systems)   Productivity Puzzle— Why have these innovations not yet led to a measured increase in productivity growth? History wins: Technological innovations of the First and Second Industrial Revolutions were much better than the present day innovations. (The productivity-enhancing impacts of present-day inventions have been argued to have waned) Measurement woes: It is difficult to measure the new information-intensive goods and services as well as- the standard measuring materials might just have been lagging behind in the age of globalised innovations and value system. For example, many experts argue that the free goods associated with free internet aren’t able to find a way to be measured (Productivity being at our fingertips and still not getting accounted— Under-measurement of output) Permanent lag: The technological and the behavioural tools take time to complement each other and therefore, an innovation does not necessarily mean that it would reach the other end at the same speed, as the other end needs to develop itself as well to nurture that technology. Hence, a time lag is a permanent factor that has always existed. Accompanying factors towards Stagnation: With the financial crisis leading to a meltdown in productivity, there are other factors as well— aging populations and lower investment in physical capital leading to a lower trend growth Weak Recovery post the 2008 crisis: If workers remain unemployed for too long, they lose their skills and human capital; As technological innovation is embedded in new capital goods, low investment leads to permanently lower productivity growth The Indian Ecosystem— India ranks 54th in internal policy support to global innovation Reasons behind poor performance of India in generating measurable innovative activity Lack of investment in basic and applied science and technology that is essential for innovation which, in turn, accelerates the pace of intellectual property activities No transmission of existing knowledge, which is the basis for the generation of new knowledge Lack of rigorous scientific study Lack of perspective building and prioritising Religious system of beliefs Climate fostering “un-questioning” undermining scientific inquiry and questioning ‘Costly’ Affair impeding Innovation: Diversion of funds from productive R&D towards litigation and discovery/licenses Monopoly: Little choice and no incentive to work on the complaints as the market is captured, damaging society’s development Restriction on Technological Progress& Legal Risks: More number of false claims, thereby diverting energy of innovators towards defending and not producing/discovering which, in turn, affects their creativity. Low Inclusion of Indians: World Intellectual Property Organisation statistics states that only about 22 per cent of all patents granted by the Indian Patent Office were granted to Indian residents thus, questioning the strategic as well as economic sense behind the protection that excludes Indians from benefiting from it.   Promotion of Innovation by the Government— President of India declared decade 2010-20 as the “decade of innovation”— to develop an innovation eco-system in the country to stimulate innovations and to produce solutions for the societal needs in terms of healthcare, energy, urban infrastructure, water and transportation. Science technology and innovation (STI) policy 2013: Promoting the spread of scientific temper among all sections of society Establishing world class infrastructure for R&D for gaining global leadership in some select frontiers of science Positioning India among top 5 global scientific powers by 2020 Seeding S&T based high risk innovation systems NITI Aayog initiatives: Atal Innovation Mission (AIM): AIM will be an Innovation Promotion Platform involving academics, entrepreneurs, and researchers- to draw upon national and international experiences to foster a culture of innovation, R&D in India. The platform will also promote a network of world-class innovation hubs and grand challenges for India to solve. Self-Employment & Talent Utilization (SETU): SETU will be a Techno-Financial, Incubation and Facilitation Programme to support all aspects of start-up businesses, and other self-employment activities, particularly in technology-driven areas. Recommendations by NITI Aayog panel on Innovation headed by Prof. Tarun Khanna: Private sector should help fund R&D (research labs at universities and start-ups) Improved tax benefits for investments equivalent to a percentage of corporate profits Increase in investment in business incubators with up to 200 crore rupees public spending per year and roping in of the private sector for the same ‘Make in Universities’ program (Setting up of 500 tinkering labs; create products that address local problems, with one 3D printer per institute) ‘Grand Prizes Approach’ to finding ultra-low-cost solutions (to India’s most difficult and nagging problems) All contracts with foreign defence companies above 5 billion dollars should include a clause for five percent of contract value to be directed to establish research-centric universities with strong emphasis on its core product areas Establishing a fund-of-funds (FOF): To seed other early stage venture funds with a corpus of 5000 crore rupees   Bharat Innovation Fund: A public-private-academia partnership set up by Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Ahmedabad’s Centre for Innovation Incubation and Entrepreneurship (CIIE) (managed and coordinated) Launched by the PM during the Startup Konnect event in California—To support innovation and innovative startups in areas of healthcare and life-sciences, sustainability, and digital technologies Connecting the Dots: Can slow productivity growth be viewed just as a down payment on a much brighter future? Discuss. Critically analyse the measures taken by the government to promote an ecosystem of innovation in India   MUST READ Convergence, but hard choices ahead Hindu   From plate to plough: Catching the Sun Indian Express Related Articles: A Solar-y Alternative  INDIA AND INTERNATIONAL SOLAR ALLIANCE Shifting India to Clean Energy   Solar Policy http://iasbaba.com/2016/02/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-16th-february-2016/ http://iasbaba.com/2016/01/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-19th-january-2016/   Being neighbourly Indian Express Related Articles: India’s challenge in Afghanistan AIR Debate - Heart of Asia Conference 2016   Solar power: Pragmatism from industry and enabling infrastructure are key Livemint Articles related to Renewable energy: http://iasbaba.com/2015/10/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-2nd-3rd-october-2015/ http://iasbaba.com/2015/10/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-30th-october-2015/ http://iasbaba.com/2016/01/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-22nd-january-2016/ http://iasbaba.com/2016/02/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-16th-february-2016/ http://iasbaba.com/2016/01/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-21st-january-2016/   India’s NSG prospects not so good Livemint Related Articles: TLP-2016   The slippery slopes of economic policy Livemint   Why this obsession with fiscal deficit? Business Line   Don’t confuse patents with innovation Business Line   Not by MSP alone Business Line MIND MAPS   1. RCEP

Jun 5, 2016 Topper's From IASbaba

TOPPER'S STRATEGY: Unusual Gyaan on Answer Writing that will work for everyone, ABHISHEK JAIN, RANK 304, CSE 2015, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!

Read about other Topper’s Strategy About ME: ABHISHEK J JAIN RANK 304 Graduation: IIT (BHU), Varanasi (2014) Home Town: Delhi Marksheet: (CSE-2015) Prelims: GS (Paper-I): 115.34 Mains   General Bol Bachchan :P    There is a general jibe in India that “one decides what to do in life after joining the engineering college”. And I take no shy in accepting that I’m no exception to this. I’m not the one who had thought of clearing UPSC since childhood. Like many others, after getting into engineering I enjoyed as much and sooner it was final year that I have to decide of what to do in Life!! After I returned from Internship from Taiwan, I got an opportunity to interact with a serving IRS officer during my final year who motivated me and ushered my path to take this challenge. The usual chemical engineering job didn’t fascinate me either. So, I decided not to sit in campus placement and instead started with Class 6 NCERT!!! (Career graph is going in reverse :D) First Phase LEARNING   Initially everything seems to go haphazard, there was too much of everything and need to start from clean slate. I didn’t have habit of completing my newspapers. It took 2 hours to complete “THE” The Hindu. Like many others I picked up an optional which is most popular Public Administration, to which I agree was not well thought off. Just read class notes and standard book (Prasad & Prasad/Rajni Goyal) and thought I am ready to go. Rather than understanding and analyzing, I ran for Covering every bit notes available and mug them up. As & when I came across any topper’s strategy/notes, I rush forward to gather it. I had leap of Xerox notes/ summary of ARC’s/ Gists of Hindu, Yojana etc piled up in my room. (Aap notes ke peeche, notes aap ke peeche: too much fun). Instead of focusing on NCERTs I kept on speeding to Standard books. This strategy cost me a lot. The most important thing that I learnt & corrected was to restrict to QUALITY not Quantity. Set small targets and move forward in piecemeal approach. The turn around-3 common problem & how to deal with them   PROCRASTINATION is the biggest enemy one has to face in this preparation that pushes even the brightest and calmest of minds into hells of negativity. Piles of unread The Hindu editorials kept staring at me with innocent look + remaining portion of optional revision pulls me other way round + in between my mind picks up Lakshmikant in-hand for prelim preparation. (There were days when my mother used to mock me that yesterday’s The Hindu was not even opened and seems fresh as new.) Unstable psyche chooses to avoid all this. (Till date ghost of procrastination keeps on haunting my mind palace).   My way-“DON’T WORRY TOO MUCH ABOUT THE PAST. IF YOU DO MORE NOW, THE PAST WILL SLOWLY MELT AWAY.”   Pick up the subject that you like the most. In my case it was Polity & Modern India (Gandhian Phase). Read from the Basic source (NCERT/Notes). Pick up General Studies Reference Manual (TMH/Pearson etc). It contains 400-500 Qns topic wise segment wise per subject. ATTEMPT. I challenged myself to score 90% in that. After that move to part tests of different institutes & build upon then after to full ones. Can form a group to push oneself or monitor your performance through tests. FEAR - The yearlong process of preparation is like a sinusoidal wave, with moments of low and high takeover your capabilities. There came instances where I scored so low in my exams and felt so low that I even questioned myself whether I had taken right decision to jump in this Rat Race. (कहाँ ओखली में सिर दे दिया) Life would have been simpler if I had picked up a job instead. On the top of it the hysteria created in market, relatives & society as you enter in the field raises the negativity. (Walking across that “Bada Bazaar Marg” in Old Rajinder Nagar gives shiver of pessimism and chill ran across the spine). For that take positive energy. Sources of Positivity – Parents/ Siblings/ Family/ Mentor/ Teacher/ Friends/ Qualified Aspirants/ Yoga & Sports (sweat out negativity)/ Introspection / Almighty (if not atheist). In my case my parents, my elder Brother Aman Bhaiya & twin brother Abhinav and some close friends have played vital role. Talking to them help me feeling rejuvenated especially when exams are approaching and test series give you reality check. INDISCIPLINE -TO be frank, I’m not the one who can study 12-14 hours a day, 7 days a week straight. Though my planning has always been over 14 hours daily, but my hit ratio has never been 100%, it hovered around 60-70%. The plan that I made was always so good on paper, that could have even brought Planning Commission to shame. (Good that Hon’ble PM shut it off. :D:D). But these plans never saw the light of the sun in reality, in totality.   To overcome-“SUFFER THE PAIN OF DISCIPLINE OR SUFFER THE PAIN OF REGRET” To set things straight, Discipline does not mean rise up 5 AM in morning and study straight till midnight on that study table having food there itself, taking newspaper on the way to class/or to the loo to capitalize those 5-10 minutes, or listening to AIR Spotlight while having dinner or listening to Mrunal lectures while going for a walk in Park. I did all this & realized it is only fooling my cognitive brain by my weak mind. This fooling has huge burden of ‘regret of failure’ as reward. Later I realized that preparing for UPSC doesn’t mean you have to be robot/mechanical. I realized that UPSC is not Assembly line production of Wild Donkeys, running coaching door to door, instead it is race of Smart Ass). If I don’t feel like studying, I took the day off. Do what cheers one. (I like watching TBBT). BUT Discipline means sticking to basics and revising them again. Don’t rush here and there for Xerox notes/Gists/Shortcut materials. There is no dearth of information in this era of IT EXPLOSION. Shed away information overload. Focus on QUALITY.  Revisiting one’s Notes + NCERTs 3 times is more important than rushing for 3 new sources for same topic from the market. (I still find new things in NCERT Bipan Chandra after 3-4 times than that bulky blue cover book. e.g. in my 3rd reading I found that Mazhar-ul-Haq who accompanied Gandhiji in Champaran Satyagrha alonwith Acharyaji/Dr. Prasad/Mahadev Desai was same person who also resigned from Central Legislative Council membership alongwith Pt.MMM/Jinnah against Rowlatt Act). That’s why there’s ONLY one set of book to read cover to cover i.e. NCERT. Studying them religiously-repeatedly-rightly with clarity of Syllabus is for me, Discipline. ART OF DECODING THE QUESTION   MAINS: Prep Strategy – “3P” Model – Perseverance/Practice/Positive Mindset [प्रयास / परीक्षा / प्रार्थना]   Secret of scoring marks in MAINS lies in “ART OF DECODING THE QUESTION” (something I coined & learnt in my preparation phase in 2015 which is imperative for success in PubAd and gaining importance in GS as well). Role of Practice: form a group of 2-3(maximum) and write answers. Writing TLP Not only helps in covering current affairs but also helps in gaining momentum of WRITING.   Practice: Be it prelims or mains, solving multiple MCQs and answer writing is a MUST. As Former President of India Dr. A. P. J. Abdul Kalam said “Excellence is a continuous process and not an accident. Climbing to the top demand strength, whether it is to the top of Mount Everest or the top of your career”.   Learn and engrave syllabus in your memory. This will help in interlinking concepts. Reading 20 concepts and interlinking with other aspects to give output to 60 more odd areas is more important than reading 50 concepts without internalizing. Here IASBABA, came to rescue. It helped in gaining momentum and​​ learnt the concept of interlinking and answering through​​ MINDMAPS​ ​(which was very helpful in handling Questions like on Satyam Scandal by interlinking concepts of governance, transparency and accountability from GS-2 + Companies Act (2013) from GS-3 ​+ Corporate governance from GS-4)​   I want to pay my sincere obligation to IASBaba Team as a secret admirer. Their answer writing strategy in ESSAY and ETHICS is impeccable as it helped me a lot esp in case study understanding.​ I want to thank for their selfless effort in ​​TLP initiative. It took 7 days of continuous posting my answers on the website to get my first answer evaluated by B​abaji, in which I was awarded 5/10, that worked as self-reality check​. It is because of this platform that I gained momentum and learnt the concept of interlinking and answering through MINDMAPS (which was very helpful in handling Question on  Satyam Scandal by interlinking concepts of governance, transparency and accountability from GS-2 + Companies Act (2013) from GS-3​+Corporate governance from GS-4.​)​   “BETTER TO SWEAT IN PRACTICE RATHER BLEED IN WAR”   Though I was not regular in posting my answers as I was ​attending test series for GS & Optional​ in person but I ​make sure to write answers on questions given on IASBABA platform at my level​ diligently​​.​ It gave me clearer picture of understanding and sticking to the core of the question.​​   Eg - YOU MUST NOT blabber out everything you know about about Article 44 just only ‘Uniform Civil Code’ word is mentioned in question. If I would have attempted same question in 2014 than I would not have thought about what the demand of question is/ how many parts are there in question/ Have I substantiated my stand with suitable examples/ Can one think of factors beyond Politics to social, economic, Governance & administration feasibility angle/ Are there any Historical learnings (hint-Hindu Code Bill which was studied in Paper 1 Post independence India).   Write the answers/ solve previous year question, even if you are 100% sure that you have not covered 100% of your syllabus. Earlier I always postponed the idea of writing till I “FINISH” my syllabus. That Situation never arrived, and will never arrive. ‘Leaving no stone unturned’ might land one on the same side of the fence as by the time (s)he engage in un-turning every stone, other colleagues (vanars) would have formed (Ram-) setu with the limited stones available at their disposal. In my opinion Hanuman Strategy of taking a giant leap might work for some extra-ordinary minds, but for a common mind setting the things in motion and moving forward requires gradual piecemeal approach.   For eg- “The ancient civilization in Indian sub-continent differed from those of Egypt, Mesopotamia and Greece in that its culture and traditions have been preserved without a breakdown to the present day. Comment.” (UPSC GS-1 2015 Ques 1)   This statement is verbatim picked up from AL BASHAM “The Wonder that was India” (Chapter 1 Page 4). A Maximizing mind would now read 700 page book to satisfy the quench neglecting core books and without analyzing cost:benefit ratio, but a satisficing mind will try to link the existing base of knowledge gathered from NCERT/Notes to form an acceptable 200 words answer by collating aspects of deep unchanging social aspects in India (like Varna System), ancient civilizations importance in today’s religious understanding (like Vedic Hymns), India taking more pride in its ancestoral roots (like Freedom fighters referring back to rich history), contribution of Historical studies/inscriptions, European excavations etc. I didn’t go for reading books like Governance in GS2/Ramesh Singh in GS3/Subba Rao or Ramesh Arora in GS4 cover to cover. I guess I developed laziness on that part to pick fresh books. This limitation of limited reading forced me to think and interconnect dots from available minimum knowledge in me. The capacity to assemble and interlink aspects is imperative in Essay and Ethics as one don’t expect bookish/factual/Ritualistic answer in these areas. Capacity to innovate and collate multiple-dimensions of a single problem with examples proves handy in Essay & Ethics. Leave the question blank if you don’t know anything about it instead of filling the pages. THIS IS NOT UNIVERSITY EXAM. You are not expected to be PhD in each topic and will not be awarded if you paint the sheet blue. I left one question in each GS-1/2/3 paper. PubAd - I attempted religiously Test series in Lukmaan and followed up on feedback of Ansari Sir. Important to address all parts of question and understand core demand of the question. For e.g. -Do you agree with the view that the charismatic approach of the mid-1970s is a “new version” of the Classical Trait Theory of Leadership? Give reasons. In 2014 I would have just put in words all I know about Classical Trait theory & charismatic theory. I would have put lots of technical jargons/thinkers name. But instead now I realized, that it is important not only to compare and analyse their similarities but also explain “newness” by describing differences taking into account the ecology of the era in which the theories were developed with suitable examples. Take clear stand with due substance in the end weighing both sides of the coin. I’ve deliberately tried to avoid going in internal dynamics of which chapter of which book to study for which part of mains, for that matter I believe there are enough IAS gurus and Matas in the market. One can follow either and stick to it. My target is to give you an insight on how to reap from existing sources by interlinking and bringing together, through Practice (3P Model). I am available at abhishekjjain2@gmail.com IASbaba Guys, we would like to bring to your notice a very important point. Abhishek is one such candidate who has scored amazingly well learning from his mistakes and it is evident from 2014 (575 Marks) to 2015 (759 Marks). Can you see the great leap?  And see his humbleness :)  @Abhishek- It is done for the larger good. Now that you are one such person to whom people will look forward, we felt to highlight your great ethical and moral standard and specially the real concern for the aspirants. This is missing now a days. It should be a learning for everyone reading your article.  Forgive us :) We thank you for the appreciation. IASbaba is overwhelmed!

Jun 5, 2016 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Attitude is your Identity – Inspirational & Educative Articles

Attitude is your IdentityMost of you think that the world recognizes you for your talent and capabilities; but in reality there is no other identity for you than your attitude. Success or failure is not a result of just your efforts and actions; it is a result of how you look at the world around you, and more importantly how you look at yourself.Attitude is not a mask that you wear to show people that you are nice, kind and responsible. Attitude goes much deeper than your external behavior. Attitude is who you are at the deepest core of your being. The thoughts, feelings and emotions that resonate within your depth, which are hidden from the external world, is your attitude.The greatest difficulty in managing your attitude and understanding it is that it is hidden from everybody; nobody can see your attitude. People can only see the results of your attitude which is generally called behavior. Most of you try to change your behavior, while completely forgetting all about your attitude.Change in behavior is simply a change in response to the external environment. Change in attitude is a fundamental shift within you. For example, if people are finding it difficult to interact with you because you are too serious; adding a smile more often to your conversations is a behavioral change. When you search within yourself for the reason of your serious behavior and change your perspective of people to genuinely connect with them better; that is a shift in attitude.As you can see, change in behavior is much easier when compared to change in attitude. An attitude change requires conscious and consistent effort over a period of time to look within, review and evaluate yourself critically, to make the necessary changes.Be it in a formal interview or a casual conversation, in spite of you being at your possible behavior, if your attitude is flawed, people can always recognize it. In fact most behavioral evaluations have nothing to do with your behavior; they have everything to do with your attitude.This is the reason why a lot of you fail and don’t even recognize the cause of your failure. You might have had a perfect conversation, or answered brilliantly in the interview, or prepared yourself thoroughly for the upcoming challenge, but have done nothing about the most important thing that matters – Your Attitude.The test of behavior is when you are with people; the test of attitude is when you are with yourself. Observe yourself more closely when you are alone. Observe your thoughts, feelings and emotions. Reflect on the way you think and act. If you feel that something is not right about the way you are looking at things fundamentally; then make the change and continue to work at it till it becomes a natural habit. Remember, you are not your behavior; you are your attitude. Attitude is your only identity.“The articles are a copyright of The Ahamo Movement and IASBABA.”Read more such articles– Click Here

Jun 4, 2016 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

IASbaba ’60 Day Plan- Prelims Test 2016 ENVIRONMENT & CURRENT AFFAIRS [DAY 18]

Click here to get all the Tests- Archives   Hello Friends   Hope you are enjoying Daily questions. The link for Day 17 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 18]   Q.1) Which of the following is/are legally binding? Nagoya Protocol Convention on Biological Diversity Paris Agreement on Climate Change Select the correct code a) Only 2 b) 1 and 2 c) 1, 2 and 3 d) 1 and 3  Q.2) Which among the following can effectively be examples of ‘Secondary Succession’? Formation of a new Island after volcanic eruption The renewal of a forest after a fire A flooded land The renewal of a crop after harvesting Select the correct option a) 1, 2 and 3 b) 2, 3 and 4 c) 1, 3 and 4 d) All  3) Consider the following with regard to National Green Tribunal (NGT) NGT is bound by procedure laid down under the Code of Civil Procedure, 1908 He tribunal has Original as well as Appellate jurisdiction Tribunal is competent to hear cases for several acts such as Forest Right Act, Biological Diversity Act, Environment (Protection) Act, Water & Air (Prevention & control of Pollution) Acts. Select the incorrect code a) 1 and 2 b) Only 2 c) 1 and 3 d) 1, 2 and 3 Q.4) Consider the following statements about the ‘Green India Mission’ (GIM). Its mission is/are To increase forest/tree cover to the extent of 5 million hectares To enhance ecosystem services like timber and non-timber produce To enhance provisioning services like carbon sequestration, hydrological services and biodiversity Identify the incorrect statement/s a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) Only 1 d) 1 and 3 Q.5) Loss of biodiversity in a region may lead to Decline in plant production Increased resistance to environmental perturbations such as drought Decreased variability in certain ecosystem processes such as plant productivity, water use, and pest and disease cycles Select the correct statement/s a) 1 and 2 b) Only 3 c) Only 1 d) Only 2 Q.6) Consider the following assumptions regarding Pugmark method The entire potential tiger habitat in India had to be effectively covered during the pugmark census. All the four paw prints of every individual tiger in the surveyed area had to be detected during the censuses. The same hind pugmark of each one of these individual tigers must be lifted from suitable and comparable substrates or from standardized soil track-plots. The shape of each pugmark lifted had to be recorded without distortion by the thousands of census personnel involved in the operation. Supervisory officials were expected to be subsequently able to segregate the pugmarks of each individual tiger correctly, based on footprint shape, track measurements, and prior local knowledge. Select the appropriate code a) Failure of assumptions 1 and 2 would lead to under-counts b) Failure of assumptions 3 and 4 would lead to over-counts c) Failure of assumption 5 could lead to either undercounts or over-counts. d) a, b and c holds true Q.7) Consider the following about South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network India is a formal member of SAWEN SAWEN, South Asia Wildlife Enforcement Network is an initiative to control the transboundary Wildlife Crime Select the correct statement/s a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both d) None   Q.8) Consider the following regarding Bharat Stage (BS) Emission Norms in India Currently, India is following BS IV Norms India has planned to implement BS V norms from 2019 BS VI, particulate matter emission for diesel cars and nitrogen oxide levels are expected to be substantially higher than in BS IV. Select the incorrect code a) 1 and 2 b) Only 2 c) 2 and 3 d) Only 3 Q.9) Consider the following countries Myanmar Vietnam China Philippines Malaysia Mekong river flows through which of the above given countries? a) 1,2,3 &4 b) 1,2,3 and 5 only c) 1,2 and 3 only d) 2&4 only Q.10) Consider the following Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) insures people working in organised sector only As per this scheme organised sector worker and his family (unit of five) will be covered with total sum of 30,000/- per family per annum Select the correct option a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.11) Consider the following Sikkim is the first organic state in India India’s highest peak Kanchenjunga is located in the state of Sikkim River Teesta flows through Sikkim Select the correct option with respect to the state of Sikkim a) 1, 2 & 3 b) 1 & 2 only c) 2 & 3 only d) 1 & 3 only Q.12) Consider the following statements regarding Zika Virus It is named after the Zika forest in Ethiopia The mosquitoes that spread dengue and chikungunya viruses are the same affecting Zika virus It can be spread through sexual contact Select the correct code a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) Only 2 d) 1, 2 and 3 Q.13) Consider the following statements with respect to “Spaceward bound programme” Spaceward bound programme is a project by NASA The objective is to train the next generation of space explorers. India has joined hands with NASA in this experiment to conduct microbiological expeditions in places like Ladakh that has  extreme climatic conditions Select the correct option a) 1 & 2 only b) 2 & 3 only c) 1 & 3 only d) All Q.14) Corruption perception index is a report released by which of the following international organisations a) World bank b) Transparency international c) United Nations development programme d) Amnesty international Q.15) Nai Manzil is a government of India scheme related to development of which of the following a) Skill development b) Recapitalisation of banks c) Health d) Tourism Q.16) Mobile academy, IT initiative of government of India is related to which of the following option a) It’s a mobile-based application aimed at providing training services to 9 million ASHAs. b) It will be an IT-enabled tool to help tobacco users to quit tobacco. c) It is an audio-based mobile service that delivers weekly audio messages to families about pregnancy, child birth and child care. d) It is a Mobile based application for filing quick IT returns  Q.17) The “Red Data List” published by the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources (IUCN) contain lists of  Information on plants, fungi and animals Information on plants and animals only It divides species into Six categories Select the correct answer using the codes given below a) 1 and 3 b) 1, 2 and 3 c) Only 3 d) Only 1 Q.18) Sacred groves are, tracts of forest were set aside, and all the trees and wildlife within were venerated and given total protection. Sacred groves are found in following places Melghat – Maharashtra Aravalli – Rajasthan Western ghats - Karnataka and Maharashtra Sarguja, Chanda and Bastar – Madhya Pradesh Select the correct answers a) 1, 3 and 4 only b) 2, 3 and 4 only c) None of the above d) All of the above Q.19) Which of the floral groups are not found in India? Algae Fungi Bacteria Lichens Bryophytes Pteridophytes Gymnosperms Angiosperms Select the correct answers a) 6 only b) 6, 7 and 8 only c) 5, 6, and 8 d) All of the above are found in India  Q.20) What is common to the techniques (i) in vitro fertilisation, (ii) Cryo preservation and (iii) tissue culture? a) All are in situ conservation methods. b) All are ex situ conservation methods. c) All require ultra-modern equipment and large space. d) All are methods of conservation of extinct organisms. Q.21) Consider the following statements about Biodiversity In biosphere diversity exists only at species level, genes level and ecological level. It is the term popularized by socio biologist Robert May. The Western Ghats have a greater amphibian species diversity than the Eastern Ghats Select the incorrect answer: a) 1 only b) Only 1 and 2 c) Only 1, 2 and 3 d) All of the above  Q.22) Consider following statements about IUCN RED LIST It uses a set of criteria which are not relevant to all species and all regions of the world. The IUCN Red List is recognized as the most authoritative guide to the status of biological diversity. Select the correct answers a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both d) None Q.23) Consider the following statements Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve has been included in UNESCO’s list of World Biosphere Reserve Network. Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve rests in between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka Kannikarans are the indigenous tribes residing in this area Select the incorrect answer a) 2 only b) 1 and 3 only c) 2 and 3 only d) None of the above Q.24) The ecological footprint is a measure of human demand on the Earth's ecosystems. It measures- How much of the biological capacity of the planet is demanded by a given human activity or population Ecological Footprints is calculated for overall activity of a nation or population and activities such as industrialization etc. The disadvantage of Ecological Footprint is that it cannot be calculated for individual people or area. Select the incorrect statement/s a) 1 and 2 b) Only 2 c) 1 and 3 d) Only 3  Q.25) Consider the statements regarding ‘Coral bleaching’ It is the loss of zooxanthellae through either expulsion or loss of algal pigmentation. It happens due to increase in ocean temperature only All the corals undergoing bleaching are dead corals Select the correct code a) 1 and 3 b) Only 2 c) Only 1 d) 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 4, 2016 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 4th June, 2016

Archives   IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 4th June, 2016   DEFENCE/SECURITY   TOPIC: General studies 3: Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.  Challenges to internal security through communication networks Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism.   India’s gateway to South-East Asia : #Manipur is Burning Some basics before we go into the issue: Manipur à India’s gateway to South-East Asia Manipur is inhabited by three major ethnic groups - the Meiteis in the valley, and the Nagas and the Kuki-Chin tribes in the hills. The State is home to 33 recognized tribes. People are predominantly Mongoloid, and speak Tibeto-Burman languages. Manipuri language which is the mother-tongue of the Meitei people is the lingua-franca of the State. Manipur’s alleged forcible merger with the Indian union and late grant of statehood has been seen as some of the reasons behind the rise of several insurgency movements in the State. Most of the tribes, inhabiting the hill areas of the State too have been represented by several outfits. In addition, the Naga insurgent outfits’ demand for the inclusion of the hill districts of Manipur in the present day Nagaland has also impacted on the prospects of peace in Manipur. Courtesy (image): http://www.mapsofindia.com/maps/manipur/manipur-map.jpg   INSURGENCY For a separate independent Manipur Manipur was declared as a separate state in 1972 (after a protracted agitation interspersed with violence) The emergence of insurgency in Manipur is formally traced to the emergence of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF) on 24 November 1964. The alleged ‘forced’ merger of Manipur and the delay in the conferring of full-fledged statehood to it was greatly resented by the people of Manipur. Since then several other outfits, like the People's Liberation Army (PLA), founded on September 25, 1978, People's Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK) set up on October 9, 1977 and the Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP) that came into being in April, 1980 have emerged in the valley areas consisting of four districts of the State. All these insurgent groups have been demanding a separate independent Manipur. Today, Manipur is one of the worst affected states in the Northeast where at least 12 insurgent outfits are active at present and the security force operations have made little difference to their capabilities. For Implementation of a permit system Recently, Manipur has been beset by massive public protests by citizens demanding the implementation of a permit system Implementation of a permit system will regulate the entry and residency of outsiders Protests in Imphal Valley - an area only about a ninth the size of the troubled state - account for about 60% of the Meitei population In other words, majority of people living in Imphal Valley are Meitei people and demand for permit system is dominated by this section   THE REAL ISSUE: Meitei people demanding the introduction of an Inner Line Permit to stop the inflow of outsiders Hill-dwelling Naga tribes in Manipur seeking a future free of Meitei domination Insecure Kuki and Zomi groups (who are also hill dwelling tribes) are caught in the middle United Naga Council (UNC) in Manipur and other groups, those of the Kuki and Zomi, had for long felt deprived of development and jobs by Meitei control over the administration In addition, Naga insurgent outfits’ demand for the inclusion of the hill districts of Manipur in the present day Nagaland Thus, Meitei people fear that any settlement with this pre-eminent Naga rebel group could spark a merging of Naga tribal homelands in Manipur with Naga homelands in Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam This brought to the fore the movement for the Inner Line Permit system Manipur’s Congress-led assembly passed a populist bill to implement a permit system to regulate the entry and residency of outsiders, and amendments to two Acts regulating ownership of land and establishments. Riots immediately erupted in southern district comprising of Zomi and Kukis. Citizens here feared the bills would place non-Meitei folk at a further disadvantage. Dozens were injured and several killed in police firing during the protests. Still protests are active against the government to withdraw the bills. A major Meitei rebel group, United National Liberation Front (UNLF), has for long been suspected as being part of a conglomerate sponsoring the ILP movement. Conclusion: Situation can be attributed to snake and ladder game - Meitei people hold the dice (control over administration) and pawns remain the citizenry, driven by a collective hysteria accumulated by years of repression (snakes) by the Indian security establishment, a corrupt local political establishment, an economy in shambles, and paranoia over the Naga peace settlement territorially tearing Manipur apart. Manipuri’s fires have just begun. It is important that both the Central government and State government intervene in the issue and frame a peaceful solution among all the groups, before the fire spreads throughout the state. If not country may witness one more incident such as the Bodo insurgency (Kokrajahar incident) which ultimately might lead the India’s gateway to South-East Asia to near stand-still. Connecting the dots: Discuss the insurgency problems faced by Manipur state. Can the much demanded implementation of a permit system to regulate the entry and residency of outsiders solve those insurgency issues? Critically examine.   INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:  General studies 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora   India & the growing salience of South Asian nations Examples of the new developments based on strategic interests— China is catching up in its trade and investment, and in some cases, its economic diplomacy has been accompanied by expanded strategic cooperation with India’s neighbours The $ 46 billion China-Pakistan economic corridor—a vision to link western China by road and rail down to the Gwadar deep water port Status of a “dialogue partner”— Accorded to Colombo and Kathmandu in the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation by Beijing Through Silk Road “belt and road” vision, it can splurge extensive resources on initiatives such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank Has emerged as a top exporter of goods to the region, breaking into South Asian markets with its export-led growth strategy Financially— Major donor to the AIIB (capital pool of $100 billion), and to the reserve fund of the New Development Bank (the “BRICS bank”), Has created its own Silk Road Fund of $40 billion in capital India & the unfolding globalisation of the Subcontinent—Diminishing role of India South Asian Region: The South Asian region is one of the least economically integrated regions in the world— Below potential intraregional trade due to high transport costs, protectionist policies, and political tensions Broader regional trade expansion also has been affected due to deep enmity between India & Pakistan Size: Bangladesh: Eighth largest in the world (more than 160 million) Afghanistan (33mn), Nepal (29mn) and Sri Lanka (21mn) are at 40th, 46th and 57th positions respectively Mini States: Only Bhutan and Maldives, with their populations below 1 mn   Current Dynamics with India— Much weight given to Pakistan: India needs to reinvent its discourse w.r.t. Pakistan as other regions are getting pushed aside with the maximum space being occupied by one country owing to an increased focus on tackling— Islamic identity, Ever-emerging issues related to the critical geopolitical location, Close association with the Western military alliances Their possession of nuclear weapons Rebuilding Afghanistan— has exhausted India off considerable amount of energy and focus. In fact, the underlying issues are mostly in continuance with issues related to Pakistan— India’s strategy towards Pakistan and the battle against violent religious extremism.   The misses— Bangladesh: This eighth largest country is also one of the fastest growing economies of the world and is open to massive investments in the infrastructure sector. Its position can be utilized strategically as a bridge between South Asia, China and South East Asia. China in Bangladesh: Around 2005, China overtook India as Bangladesh’s top trading partner—displaced many Indian goods in Bangladesh, offering cheaper Chinese products (especially cotton and other fabrics central to the garment industry) without the visa, transport, and customs challenges that had limited trade between India and Bangladesh India has been a major economic partner to Bangladesh since its independence in 1971, and Bangladesh enjoys duty-free access to Indian market for almost 98 per cent of its products since the end of 2011. India should thus, encash the current peaceful situation (the 2015 Land Boundary Agreement), to address border issues affecting trade in the near future as well as widening and deepening the traction for creative and sustainable initiatives. Bhutan and Nepal: Nepal has been blessed with an important strategic position (important for both India & China) and likewise, India and Bhutan share “mutually beneficial economic inter-linkages” too. A 1996 trade agreement between India and Nepal increased bilateral trade volume, which now accounts for more than half of Nepal’s total trade But in 2005, at the peak of Nepal’s Maoist insurgency, a low point in its relations with India, Sino-Nepali relations shifted both economically and politically. Chinese goods flooded Nepali markets as Nepal diversified its imports and lessened its dependence on India. However, India’s recent announcement of an additional $1 billion to Nepal for post-earthquake reconstruction can add a sweet spot in the age-old friendship China & Bhutan— Increased influence of China in Bhutan can lead to China moving further South to occupy the Doklam plateau and attain strategic leverage and an advantage over the Chumbi Valley. This, in the long term, could make the Siliguri corridor—the point that connects mainland India to its North East—vulnerable. Sri Lanka: India signed its first free trade agreement with Sri Lanka and the impact of Indian investments in projects like housing and railways have continuously benefitted the local population over the past decade. China in SL:  Since 2005, Chinese exports to Sri Lanka have quadrupled to close to $4 billion, coming closer to Indian levels (dramatic gap between Indian and Chinese contributions) Chinese development assistance to Sri Lanka—mostly in the form of concessional loans—began in 2009 after the Sri Lankan civil war and then spiked dramatically in 2011. Chinese support for a port, airport, and cricket stadium in Hambantota also speaks of an increasingly close relationship between the two countries— The Colombo port of call of two Chinese submarines in late 2014 and reports that Sri Lanka granted Chinese state-owned enterprises operating rights at the Hambantota port (matter of concern for India) Features prominently in China’s Maritime Silk Road project Note: Sri Lanka’s new president, Maithripala Siresena, has however suspended several Chinese projects, including the $1.4 billion Colombo port city due to the opacity of financing terms. Maldives: is a highly coveted piece of maritime real estate and thus, there exists no doubts that China is trying to make inroads into the Maldives to fulfil its strategic objectives. Indian government has rightfully been worried of possible Chinese reclamation in the Maldives keeping events in the South China Sea in mind. India should take efforts to urgently revitalise and expand the ‘Trilateral Maritime Security Cooperation’ as well, given the growing maritime security challenges in the area and to safe-guard and further consolidate strategic influence in the extended neighbourhood.   Way Ahead: A future of cooperation and competition is definitely possible with an overlap in the efforts of both India and China— The development of the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar economic corridor (new opportunities for constructive cooperation) India’s “Act East” policy converging with China’s focus—aiming to facilitate commerce, culture, and connectivity throughout Southeast Asia The pressing infrastructure needs can demand greater convergence in their resources and efforts to generate greater connectivity enabling both China and India to tap further into Asian markets through trade and investment India should sail over the challenges posed by the new geopolitical dynamism by— Reducing the gap between its own perception of being superior and addressing the huge gap that is being filled by China – economically, politically and militarily The past mistakes and losses owing to the Partition, the inward economic orientation of socialist India, and the neglect of connectivity and commerce at and across the frontiers must be left behind and should be taken up with a fresh perspective (to not only perform damage control but also rein in various other hidden possibilities) The nature of intervention in other countries internal affairs need to be double-checked before coming down to conclusions. Moreover, India should in its ‘neighbourhood strategy’ also adopt a balanced outlook towards these disturbances and only after a proper calculation should take a step ahead with the consent of the major stakeholders. Connecting the Dots: Has the ‘right to unilateral means’ been an overarching policy of India’s neighbourhood relations with its neighbours? Discuss. 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