May 27, 2016 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

IASbaba '60 Day Plan' - Prelims Test 2016 [Day 11]

Click here to get all the Tests- Archives Hello Friends Hope you are enjoying Daily questions. The link for Day 10 solution is active now.  Note- Once in every 10 Days, we will release a document on doubts and controversial questions. So keep pointing. :) 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 11] Q.1) Consider the following countries Congo Gabon Mali Eritrea Which of the African countries are located above equator? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1, 3 and 4only d) 1, 2 and 3 only Q.2) Recently a group of researchers at Harvard University who are working on Alzheimer disease came up with certain findings. Consider the following statements with respect to Alzheimer’s disease Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. Alzheimer is caused by Bacteria. As of now there is no cure for Alzheimer’s Select the correct option with respect to Alzheimer’s a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) All Q.3) Consider the following The protocol of bio safety deals with Living modified organisms The bio safety protocol is also known as Cartagena protocol The Nagoya and Cartagena protocol deals with Genetic resources Identify the wrong statement with respect to Bio safety a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 only c) 1 and 3 only d) None of the above Q.4) Mahila E Haat is an online platform for women for a) Showcasing products made/manufactured/sold by women entrepreneurs. b) Disburse loans for women belonging to BPL families c) Provide helping hand in the form of financial assistance during Pregnancy period d) E – learning portal for rural women under Bharat Nirmanprogramme Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to MUDRA bank It is asubsidiary of SIDBI It is a Non banking financial company Loans under MUDRA are issued in three categories - Shishu, Kishore and Tarun Only PSB(public sector banks) are entitled to disburse MUDRA loans Select the correct option a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1, 2 and 3 only d) 2, 3 and 4 only Q.6) Consider the following statements with respect to Food Safety & Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) It is a non statutory body It works under ministry of food processing Select the correct option a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.7) Consider the following statements with respect to “National Air Quality Index” It is aninitiative under Swacch Bharat The proposed air quality index includes 8 pollutants CO2, CO, NH3 are some of the air pollutants included in the list Select the correct option a) 1 and 3 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) All Q.8) “SahayogKaijin” is a joint coast guard exercise between India and a) Oman b) Japan c) Bangladesh d) Sri Lanka Q.9) Consider the following Mitrashakti – India and Sri Lanka Indradhanush – India and UK Varuna – India and Russia Which of the following military exercises are wrongly matched? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 3 only d) 1 and 3 only Q.10) Consider the following Tsomoriri DeeporBeel Koleru Lake Which of the above given lakes/Sanctuary is/are a designated Ramsar sites? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) All Q.11) Consider the following statements in regard to vaccines: BCG, orbacille Calmette-Guerin provide immunization against diarrhea given to child up to one to four month DPT refers to a class of combination vaccines against three infectious diseases in humans: diphtheria, pertussis (whooping cough), and tetanus given to child up to one year Oral Polio vaccine (OPV) is given to the child from 2 month to 6 year Which of the above statements is/are incorrect? a) 2 and 3 only b) 1 only c) 2 only d) 1, 2 and 3 Q.12) Which among the following are features of Mammal? Sweat glands and oil glands are found on skin Tooth comes twice in these animals There is no nucleus in its blood cells All non-egg laying animals are mammals and hence man is also a mammal Choose the correct code a) 1 and 4 only b) 2 and 4 only c) 1, 2 and 3 only d) All the above Q.13) Which of the following statements is/are correct? PSLV is designed mainly to deliver the “earth observation” or “remote- sensing” satellites in LEO GSLV is designed mainly to deliver the “communication- satellites” in GEO An orbit is called sun-synchronous when the angle between the line joining the centre of the Earth and the satellite and the Sun is constant throughout the orbit Low Earth Orbit (LEO) is in the range of 600-900 Km altitude whereas Geo-synchronous Earth orbit (GEO) is about 36000 Km altitude Choose the correct code a) 1 and 2 b) 3 and 4 c) 1, 2 and 4 d) All of the above Q.14) Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below the Lists: LIST – I                        LIST – II a) Dawn                                  1) Pluto b) New Horizon                    2) Ceres c) Philae Lander                   3) Binary Star d) Cassini                               4) Saturn e) Nustar                                5) comet 67P A-B-C-D-E a) 1-2-5-4-3 b) 2-1-5-3-4 c) 2-1-5-4-3 d) 1-4-5-2-3 Q.15) Consider the following in regard to INO:  Neutrinos are colloquially called “ghost particles” because they travel at almost the speed of light, hardly interact with matter, and are very light. Neutrinos come in three types, and spontaneously switch from one type to another and the process is called Neutrino Oscillation In the 1960s, a neutrino observatory located at the Kolar Gold Fields in Karnataka became one of the world’s first experiments to observe neutrinos in the Earth’s atmosphere At present Dept. of Atomic Energy and Dept. of Science and Technology is funding INO to come up near Bodi Hills, Theni district, TN Which of the above statements is/are incorrect? a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 3 c) None of the above d) All of the above Q.16) When an incandescent electric bulb glows a) the electric energy is completely converted into light energy b) the electric energy is partly converted into light energy and partly into heat energy c) the light energy is converted into electric energy d) the electric energy is converted into magnetic energy Q.17) Which one among the following statements correctly defines the term Bio-fortification?  a) Enrichment of the nutrient quality of the soil using biological agents b) Breeding crops to increase their nutritional values c) Increase of organo-metallic compounds in the organism through energy flow in an ecosystem d) Adoption of genetic variable plants for breeding of high yielding varieties Q.18) 3G and 4G are wireless technologies, which are supposedly faster, more secure and reliable.  Present day 3G technology is capable of handling data around 2 Megabits per second (1.8 - 2.5 GHz frequency band). What speed is expected from new 4G technology?  a) 10-30 Megabits per second (1-5 GHz frequency band) b) 10-100 Megabits per second (2-10 GHz frequency band) c) 100 Megabits - 1 Gigabit per second (2-8 GHz frequency band) d) More than 10 Gigabits per second (10-20 GHz frequency band) Q.19) Which among the following is/are diseases caused by Protozoa? Malaria Diarrhea Kala-azar Sleeping sickness Choose the appropriate code: a) 4 only b) 1 and 3 only c) 2 and 4 only d) All of the above Q.20) Match List I with List II and select the correct answer using the code given below the Lists: List I                List II a) Vitamin A       1. Non-clotting of blood b) Vitamin B       2. Rickets c) Vitamin C        3. Beriberi d) Vitamin D        4. Colour Blindness e) Vitamin K        5.  Scurvy A-B-C-D-E a) 4-3-5-2-1 b) 4-1-5-2-3 c) 4-1-5-3-2 d) 2-1-5-4-3 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

May 27, 2016 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 27th May, 2016

Archives   IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 27th May, 2016   INTERNATIONAL   TOPIC:  General studies 2 India and its International relations.  Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.  Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora.   India-EU Relationship India and EU Concerns: India-European Union relationship has fallen into a familiar lull - marked by distance and aloofness between the two sides Recent visit by India’s PM to Brussels (in March) also did not achieve much of what it was supposed to – jump-start the semi-comatose relationship by anchoring a free trade deal nor any specific dates for trade talks were set. Reasons for such strained relationship Both the countries have failed to understand each other and have complaints which are totally symmetrical A fundamental lack of understanding and a deficit of knowledge regarding the potential gains from the relationship, on both sides, has made the India-EU dynamic less productive and more vulnerable. Concerns such as - Italian marines case and temporary ban, in 2015, of 700 generic drugs from India Eurozone crisis and more recently, the migrant crisis Brexit issue - Question of EU’s existence and its future impact All these above causes has paused the level of activity between India and EU. Understanding the EU: Case I: It is said that many countries (including India) have failed to understand or get the EU. The problem is both philosophical and administrative. EU is a supranational association of countries, which has jurisdiction and decision-making power over its member states in some areas (commercial and competition policy, for instance), joint jurisdiction with members in others (for example, foreign and security policy is coordinated by the EU but the actual framing and execution is left to its members) and no jurisdiction whatsoever in others. This kind of setup is confusing to many of its external partners (including India). Case II: However, the problem runs deeper than the world not getting the EU: the EU does not fully get the EU. The Eurozone crisis and more recently, the migrant crisis, have strained intra-union relationships. The migrant crisis has also questioned the commitment member states have to the humanistic founding values of modern Europe as well as their ability to coordinate a process to meet their international protection obligations. These crises have tested the EU’s raisons d’être. The Europe question is being asked explicitly in Britain, which will hold a referendum next month on whether or not to remain in the EU. The messages of the ‘Leave’ campaign have comprehensively showcased real and imaginary fears, some of which lurk across Europe — migrants taking jobs, a loss of sovereignty, scope creep in Brussels’s jurisdiction, the economy taking a beating, cultural subservience and so forth. While these centrifugal forces in Europe are unlikely to undo the union, it is only natural that they impact the relationship with India, especially when the latter is already on the ‘does not get the EU’ list. Understanding India Case I: The other factor that has impacted the pace of development of Indo-EU relations is the fact that the EU is grappling with how India functions: The EU establishment is road-mapping the interaction between State and Central governments, how and where policy is formed and implemented. It is also learning from its member states that doing business directly with State governments in India is often the way forward. Consequently, the EU has been engaging India partly through partnerships with Indian States. The Agenda for Action-2020, (which emerged from the March 30 talks in Brussels and sets the strategic agenda between India and EU for the next five years), also emphasises sub-national and business-to-business linkages. Case II: Additionally, India’s strong bilateral relationships with the parts, i.e. several EU member states, such as France, Germany and the U.K., have affected the relationship with the whole. In the case of the above three countries the partnership extends to support for India’s bid for permanent membership of the UN Security Council. These strong partnerships have meant that the India-EU relationship has a tinge of complacency and lack of ownership about it. The unknown future of EU and its possible impacts: The outcome of the British referendum will mean one of two things — ‘more EU’ or ‘less EU’. In future, there is a possibility of other countries holding such referendums (irrespective of the British outcome) EU’s external partners (including India) are looking for clarity from EU itself about what will be its future and how it goes about its business. This will have far-reaching implications for intra-EU relationships as well as the EU’s external partnerships.   The way ahead: India and EU, in order to move its strained relationship forward Both the sides have to understand each other better, build a more pragmatic and informed partnership Both sides have to introspect on the benefits of the relationship — monetary and non-monetary, trade and beyond EU has to clarify its future prospects and how it goes about its business At a time when India is juggling its relationships with the United States, Russia and China, an India-EU dynamic could be an important element in the country’s multilateral approach to the world India has to decide on its priority – what is the value of its EU relationship? and How far can this relationship extend beyond trade? The government should also use this pause to reflect on how it would like to leverage this partnership on the world stage where the EU may not be present as an ubiquitous functional entity just yet but where some or all members are present. Connecting the dots: India, EU fail to make headway on free trade agreement talks. What are the causes for this strained relationship between the two? Critically examine.   Also READ- India, EU summit agrees on new agenda for strategic partnership   MUST READ Watch the follow through -Deals done with Iran, the challenge for India will be to ensure timely implementation. Delivery is key fora nation that wants to make up for lost time, and Tehran has no dearth of suitors at the moment Hindu Related Articles: Chabahar Port: crucial gateway for India’s objectives India Iran relations   Reaching out to Africa Hindu Related Articles: Diverse Yet United: Together Towards Tomorrow- India-Africa Forum Summit UN missions: Bedrock of India’s military engagement and assistance to Africa   Birth pangs of payments banks Hindu Related Articles: Payment Banks: Banks for the unbanked aam aadmi   Less discretion- Time to review policy on single-brand retail restrictions Business Standard   Centre prepares to dilute wetland protection rules- Public comment till this week, on proposals to leave matters to states and do away with most existing checks Business Standard   India’s poor institutional memory- The big problem is that there is too little learning across the system. States continue to try to reinvent the wheel Live Mint   Centre places draft bills on water conservation, management- The ministry for water resources, river development and Ganga rejuvenation has also placed a draft of the national groundwater management improvement programme Live Mint Related Articles: World Water Day (March 22nd) – The importance of Water Management Water Pricing Regime

May 27, 2016 Topper's From IASbaba

TOPPER’S STRATEGY: Highly Motivational Rajat Saklecha (Rank 141) CSE-2015

  Hello Friends,   Rajat Saklecha, Rank 141 is here with his experience but not in the form of any traditional strategy. He has his own way of doing this. So humble by nature that he has always said 'This time luck has been with me more than anyone else' but its his sheer hard work that has worked. His simplicity and humbleness, traits to be inculcated by everyone.  Here he is   Firstly, I represent those who can’t even dream of studying 12-15 hours daily! Secondly, I am also not one of those jinke liye IAS, IPS jeevan-maran-paran ka sawaal hota hai. If not these services, papa roti nahi denge, companies naukari nahi degi, apni shaadi nahi hogi, mera kya hoga…— Na na – itna daroge to ban ke bhi kuch nahi kar paaoge Madam jee’s & Sir jee’s, aap log! So for me, the idea of joining services was always there since my school days because apne ko naa bachpan se akhbaar padhne ka chaska hai. Kahan kya ho raha hai, kaun kya ban raha hai, sab maalum hona (that’s why I never feared Prelims, idhar udhar se taar jod-juda kar sab kar aate the GS mein. I scored 125 and 136, out of 200 in last two attempts). So, I am writing this not to tell you what to read and from where. Everyone knows that and here, on IASbaba, many toppers have beautifully explained the same. I am here just to ask you to free yourself. You are not like the hens in a coop which are taken out by UPSC in every August and December to butcher. Tum aazad pancchi ho yaar, udhna seekho… I am just writing a few things which I did.  This may not pass the test of the well established gold standards which have been set for every aspirant to follow.  I remained my natural self, did what I have always been doing and succeeded a bit.   DO NOT Repent:   You brought Yojana, Kurushetra, World Focus, Frontline and what-not- to your dens and kept piling them up. They are now giving you jitters ki “humse naa ho paaega”, to MAT KARO NA YAAR! Yojana ko side mein rakh, saare materials Popular ke saamne waale pohe waale ko dedo—ek plate pohe to de hi dega. After that, start looking for articles in Yojana which you find useful. Bas uss ek din jamaa kar baith jaao, preferably with a friend, and divide all the Yojana’s amongst yourself. Make notes and exchange. Yojana se chaloge to yojana bhi puri ho jaaegi Believe me, it’s the easiest and the surest way to tame those small monsters ;) And the same applies to everything which you have been keeping pending for months now. Photocopies from all those newly popped up bookstores attract aspirants like hot cakes, but these cakes become tasteless as soon as they reach rooms. What I would like to say is that kam khareedo, bahut soch kar khareedo ,damdaar cheej kareedo aur padh daalo. Sasti mil rahi toh lelo?  Aisa mat karna bhaaiyo, mehenga padhega!   NOTE MAKING   I preferred offline notes, although I think online is better because jaroori nahi naa ki ek hi attempt mein ho jaaye. Online notes won’t scare the hell out of you in next attempts as they are not bulky to see, as compared to registers. It’s all psychology! Jyaada dikhega to padh nahi paaoge, aur padh nahi paaoge to yehi laga rahega ki iss saal bhi nahi hoga, padh nahi paaye. Although, there is always a shortcut and you can read compilations but that won’t give you the confidence in exams. And when you lose confidence, you start losing your chances to complete the paper and bas lag jaayegi phir se!   ANSWER WRITING Reading answers just can’t replace writing. Write, get reviewed, review other answers and repeat. This exam not only checks your knowledge which you can rattofy by reading, but also your way of presenting that rattofied version. I have seen many good writers sailing through without much knowledge and many knowledgeable persons fail as they couldn’t write well. So, write as much as you can and write right now. Defeat that traction which is pulling you away from doing it, NOW.   Run>Run>Run: Whenever in doubt, run. Whenever in depression and tears, run.  Sweat out the whole negativity. Be it mid afternoon, early morning or late night, there can’t be any better treatment. It feeds your brain with such energy that everything looks possible. You instantly feel charged and roaring to go. And this is not possible on treadmills, but in parks and open spaces only. Let the sweat flow… BABA KA ASHIRWAAD :)  I never wrote any answer on any website before I found IASbaba. I wanted someone to review them and for the first time I wrote, Baba blessed me with 5.5/10. This appreciation of my effort pushed me to write more. Although I didn’t write much on the site, but visited it daily, while writing answers in pages. In the hindsight, writing more would have got me IAS as my GS marks are just average, but I don’t repent. What I worked for, I got and I am happy.  :P    After being in Delhi for close to 4 years, I can easily say that everyone who comes here is a diamond. Even those who are like coal, UPSC ka pressure aur Delhi ka temperature unko convert kar hi deta hai diamond mein! I have seen people passing in 5th or 6th attempt for the first time, even when since I have known them, I knew, ‘ye to bada hokar IAS hi banega’ :P  Sharma uncle, Kapoor saheb aur Sweety aunty ko waise bhi jeevan mein koi aur kaam hai nahi toh aap bhi unki na sune, unko samajhne ke bajay padho aur mast raho. Jo hoga , accha hoga! Kul jamaa baat yeh hai ki UPSC naam ki diamond shop mein bahut saare johari baithte hai. Aapki value pehchaan lene waala johari kab milega, ye koi nahi jaanta. Aapka kaam hai chamakna, chamakte raho, itna ki koi bhi johari aapko avoid hi naa kar sake!   Post script, but equally important: With Tauseef bhai urf IASbaba at helm, this website will definitely help many more aspirants achieve ‘nirvana’. I have spoken to him a few times and loved his vigor to do something worthwhile for the aspirants. People like him are changing the civil service preparation process by helping out students from far flung villages, having very few economic means. And IASbaba's presence in less than a year, not only online but in our lives is a testimony for it. Isn't it?  Kudos to him and whole IASbaba Team for simplifying lives! Keep achieving greater heights Team IASbaba :)  Attached is my marksheets of Prelims and Main All the very best!

May 26, 2016 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 26th May, 2016

Archives   IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 26th May, 2016   NATIONAL   TOPIC:  General Studies 2 Indian Constitution, significant provisions and basic structure Separation of powers between various organs , dispute redressal mechanisms and institution Structure, organization and functioning of Executive and Judiciary   ‘Right to reputation’ is a fundamental right? Supreme Court recently rejected the idea of constitutional challenge to criminal defamation (denied the plea to de-criminalise defamation). Rather the judgment raised ‘reputation’ to the level of “shared value of the collective” and elevated it to the status of a fundamental right. The honorable Supreme Court held that the right to reputation to be an integral part of Articles 21 and 19(2) of the Constitution. It also held that the ‘right to free speech cannot be read to mean that one citizen can defame another’. Landmark Verdict: Balances the right to freedom of speech and expression and right to reputation The theory of balancing of rights dictates that along with the right to freedom of speech and expression, there is a correlative duty on citizens not to interfere with the liberty of others, as everyone is entitled to the dignity of person and of reputation. The guiding rationale, as enumerated in various previous judgements of the apex court, hold that nobody has a right to denigrate the others’ right to person or reputation. Therefore, in this context, criminal defamation, which exists in the form of Sections 499 and 500 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), is not a restriction on free speech that can be characterized as disproportionate, as cumulatively, it serves the social interest in holding “reputation” to be a shared value of the collective.   Defamatory speeches must be held accountable; “reputation” as a cherished constituent of life must be vehemently protected The provisions governing criminal defamation are clearly laid down: The intention to cause harm and the existence of knowledge that one’s speech is likely to cause harm upon utterance of defamatory words are essentials to convict a person accused of an offence under these provisions. No person can be criminally held liable for defamatory speech merely on the utterance of slanderous or libellous statements. Additionally, knowledge or proof of recklessness (absence of good faith) that is enlisted as an “exception” or defence in the IPC is also incorporated in Section 499 as essential to hold a person liable under these provisions. Interestingly, in the current milieu of wide-ranging media coverage, journalists also have to be held accountable for making imputations/allegations sufficient to ruin the reputation of an individual. Given the fact that in today’s world there is an increasing awareness, it has become more important now than ever that reckless or wild allegations made by any section of the society, be it an individual or sections of media, be held accountable for such brazen impunity. IASbaba’s views: The Supreme Court declared that the right to free speech under Article 19(1)(a) had to be “balanced” against the right to “reputation” under Article 21. However, the court fails to explain how this balancing exercise was to be carried out. It simply asserted that since reputation could not be “crucified” at the altar of free speech, criminal defamation was constitutional. Explanation 1 to Section 499 of IPC provides that a statement or imputation is defamatory if it is not made in public good. It is not sufficient to prove that such statement or imputation is in fact true. The idea of public good is at best vague without any means to evaluate it. Further, under Section 199 of CrPC allows multiple complaints to be filed in different jurisdictions for a single offensive publication. These provisions have the potential to be used to file frivolous complaints and could be a handy tool for harassment of journalists or activists among others. These aspects are critical to determine the reasonableness of criminal defamation and it is unfortunate that the judgment that runs into hundreds of pages has not evaluated them. There is a need to define what kind of speech is considered defamatory, what procedure is followed to bring action against the alleged wrong doer and scope of abuse of the law. There should be provisions for strict legal actions against those who misuse and file frivolous complaints.   NATIONAL 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 – Roads   Sociologically—Economically taxed Indian Cities Let us talk about Indian cars—It's about prestige and ego, to own so many cars. That is what makes vehicular emissions a social problem, not an economic one. It is about those who do not have versus those who use too much. Can we ever fix deteriorating air quality and where do the answers really lie? Acknowledgement of the problem itself— The Centre for Science and Environment quotes a 2012 epidemiological study of 12,000 children across 36 Delhi schools, which showed that every third child had reduced lung function. The sputum of a Delhi child apparently contained four times more iron-laden macrophages than those from clean environs, indicating pulmonary haemorrhage. More and more Delhi parents speak of their children using nebulizers. Beyond Delhi: 2016 World Health Organisation report says 16 of the 30 most polluted cities in the world are in India. Determined efforts needed: No exemptions should be made either for women, children and other sections (Odd-even rule) Create stringent rules and give teeth to its enforcement Strong demand management measures like highly priced parking for cars, or a variation of congestion pricing needs to be employed Create efficient public transport system— Construct bicycle lanes: In Europe, Munich has 1,200 km of marked bike lanes and 22,000 stands. Close to 20 per cent of the city's traffic is believed to be on bicycles Employ more new generation buses: China has more than 100,000 electric buses, 20 per cent of the total number of buses Expand Metro facilities: Beijing's Metro railway system went from two lines and 54 km in 2000 to a staggering 18 lines and 527 km by 2014 Make arrangements for alternative transportation facilities: The use and adoption of BRT needs to be preceded by strong, smart and attractive messaging Selective privatization of India’s public transport sector— By either through opening up the market to private firms (who would own, manage, operate and finance their own systems) or by having public agencies contract with private firms to operate services on a system wide basis, for selective routes, or for selected functions (like maintenance) Has much potential to improve efficiency, but must be accompanied by strict regulations, performance standards, and overall coordination to ensure an integrated network of services. Essential to replace the outdated buses with modern, safe, clean, and fuel-efficient vehicles Improving and expanding rail systems are also crucial, since they are insulated from the congestion delays caused by roadway traffic.   Polluting Industries—No place amidst people Mexico City didn't just move out the industries but ensured there were better filtration systems introduced into polluting stacks. Fuel management: Reducing sulphur content in diesel is a critical task The leap towards Euro VI (by 2020) or higher emission standards from the current Euro IV norms— To attain the specified super low emissions, all reactions have to be precise, and controlled by microprocessors; and the technologies must be introduced in series, and then synergised If BS-V were to be skipped entirely, then both DPF and SCR would need to be fitted together for testing, which, auto firms say, would make it extremely difficult to detect which of the technologies is at fault in case of errors in the system. So, even if oil companies manage to leap, auto firms claim they need 6-7 years to switch to BS-VI Currently— BS IV fuels contain 50 parts per million (ppm) of sulphur while Euro VI will contain 10 ppm. Today, India has Euro III norms in most parts of the country and Euro IV in major cities. Solutions: Promotion of cleaner technologies and alternate sources of energy to run vehicles: National Mission for Electricity Mobility (NMEM): To enhance penetration of efficient and environmentally friendly hybrid and electric vehicles; GoI: 1,000 crores for the Plan in 2015 to decrease CO2 emissions by 1.2- 1.5% in 2020 Promotion of usage of Biofuels: To substitute petrol and diesel in automobiles Target: 20% blending of bio-fuels such as bio-diesel and bio-ethanol by 2017 is proposed; Ethanol run bus launched in Nagpur under ‘Green Bus’ Project   Awareness of impact lacking: Behavioural approach needs to altered and a comprehensive, integrated and long-term plan of action, involving coordination between different ministries, departments, NGOs and the public, needs to be drawn to address the issue Connecting the Dots: Can change in values and aspirations in citizens, help in traffic management and reduction in pollution? Comment   MUST READ The takeaway from Tehran - The Prime Minister’s visit has given India another chance to craft a strategic relationship with Iran and to enhance its influence in West Asia. But New Delhi has its work cut out for it Hindu Related Articles: Chabahar Port: crucial gateway for India’s objectives India Iran relations   The court’s future is in its own hands - The Supreme Court’s attempt to orchestrate environmental governance in a case relating to diesel taxis in Delhi hurtles it towards a new frontier, and one for which it is wholly unprepared Hindu   Resolving the NEET conundrum Hindu Related Articles: NEET order: What’s in store?   On the road to smartness Hindu   The wrong metric- Judge-population ratio is not the apt parameter to determine judiciary’s strength. Hindu Related Articles: India’s overburdened and understaffed Judiciary   A new PPP model for smallholder agriculture- With an enabling environment, many of the tiny FPOs now coming up can grow to scale and offer a rural version of the Startup India story. Indian Express   Mind the liberal gaps- India’s democracy shines electorally. But increasing attacks on freedoms in between polls must worry us all. Indian Express   A bumpy ride?- India's policy makers will need to respond to US Fed Business Standard   Payments bank dreams go awry before take-off- Of the 11 licence holders, only eight remain in the fray as concerns about profitability and rising competition are making them think twice before jumping in Business Standard Related Articles: Payment Banks: Banks for the unbanked aam aadmi   India’s NSG bid: China in the way-Membership in the Nuclear Suppliers Group will be the final step in India’s inclusion into global nuclear order Live Mint

May 26, 2016 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

IASbaba '60 Day Plan' - Prelims Test 2016 [Day 10]

Click here to get all the Tests- Archives Hello Friends Hope you are enjoying Daily questions. The link for Day 8 solution is active now.  Note- Once in every 10 Days, we will release a document on doubts and controversial questions. So keep pointing. :) 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 10] Q.1) Which of the following is correct about Mathew effect? a) The Matthew effect(or accumulated advantage) is the phenomenon where "the rich get richer and the poor get poorer b) The Mathew effect means the idea of inflation increasing with employment rates soaring c) Mathew was a ancient historian who felt rich will help poor and vice versa hence an equalizing effect d) Mathew effect is a concept of psychology of people wishing for equality in extreme poverty Q.2) Which of the following institutions have their objectives stated to fight poverty in the world? International Monetary Fund World Bank World Trade Organization World Health Organization Select the correct answer: a) 1 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 1, 2 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 4 only   Q.3) Which of the following are correct about Poverty? Absolute povertywas defined as: a condition characterised by severe deprivation of basic human needs, including food, safe drinking water, sanitation facilities, health, shelter, education and information. Relative poverty refers to a standard which is defined in terms of the society in which an individual lives and which therefore differs between countries and over time. Poverty gapis the mean shortfall of the total population from the poverty line (counting the nonpoor as having zero shortfall), expressed as a percentage of the poverty This measure reflects the depth of poverty as well as its incidence. Poverty line is the level of income below which one cannot afford to purchase all the resources one requires to live. Select the correct answer: a) 1 and 2 only b) 1, 2 and 3 only c) 1, 2 and 4 only d) All the above  Q.4) Arrange following committees w.r.t. Poverty Alleviation in chronological order Lakadwala Committee Y K Alag Committee C Rangarajan Committee Suresh Tendulkar Committee N C Saxena Committee  Select the correct answer: a) 1 – 2 – 3 – 4 – 5 b) 2 – 1 – 4 – 5 – 3 c) 1 – 3 – 4 – 5 – 2 d) 2 – 5 – 4 – 3 – 1    Q.5) Consider the following N.C. Saxena Committee was set up by the Ministry of Rural Development to advise it on the suitable methodology for BPL Census and not for estimation of poverty. The Planning Commission constituted an Expert Group under the Chairmanship of Professor S.R. Hashim, with the objective of putting in place a uniform criterion to identify the BPL households in urban areas so that objectivity and transparency is ensured in delivery of benefits to the target groups. Select the correct answer: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) None of the above  Q.6)  Which of the following are not correctly matched?  Lorenz Curve – Poverty estimation J Curve – Taxation Laffer Curve – Devalutaion Philip’s Curve – Inflation and uemployment Select the correct answer: a) 1 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 1, 2 and 3 only d) All of the above Q.7)  The Gini coefficient (also known as the Gini index or Giniratio) is a measure of statistical dispersion intended to represent the income distribution of a nation's residents, and is the most commonly used measure of inequality. Consider the following about Gini Coefficent. A Gini coefficient of zero expresses perfect equality, where all values are the same (for example, where everyone has the same income). A Gini coefficient of 1 (or 100%) expresses maximal inequality among values (e.g., for a large number of people, where only one person has all the income or consumption, and all others have none, the Gini coefficient will be very nearly one). Select the correct answer: a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) None of the above  Q.8) Which of the following is incorrect about the Digital Gender Atlas for Advancing Girl’s Education in India? a) In order to plan and execute educational interventions, the purpose of the Gender Atlas is to help identify and ensure equitable education with a focus on vulnerable girls, including girls with disabilities. b) The Ministry of Women and Child Development presented the Digital Gender Atlas for Advancing Girls’ Education in India c) The Atlas provides comparative analysis of individual gender related indicators over three years and that enables a visual assessment of the change and an understanding of whether some intervention introduced in a geography at a particular point in time has worked or not. d) The main components of the Gender Atlas are : (i) Composite Gender Ranking (ii) Trend Analysis of Gender Indicators (iii) Vulnerabilities based on educational indicators in districts with substantial tribal, schedule caste, minority population Q.9) Consider the following about Employment rates and surveys.  Labour Bureau has been entrusted the task of conducting Annual Employment-Unemployment Survey in the country. The labor force participation rate (LFPR)is the proportion of people eligible to participate in the labor force who are actually participating in it by working or looking for work. It is usually expressed as a percent of the total labor force-eligible population in an economy. Unemployment rateis defined most basically as the percentage of the total labor force that is unemployed but actively seeking employment and willing to work. Select the correct answer: a) 1 and 3 only b) 1 and 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) All of the above  Q.10) Consider the following about Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY).  Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) isthe flagship outcome-based skill training scheme of the new Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE). The objective of this skill certification and reward scheme is to enable and mobilize a large number of Indian youth to take up outcome based skill training and become employable and earn their livelihood Under PMKVY, trainees with prior experience or skills and competencies will not be recognized and they will be given certification only post undergoing assessments. The scheme will be implemented by the Labour Bureau of India. Select the correct answer about PMKVY: a) 1 and 2 only b) 1 and 4 only c) 2 and 3 only d) None of the above  Q.11) Recently Ministry of Urban development released the second list of would be smart cities. Consider the following statements with respect to development of green field smart city. The minimum area for the development of Greenfield smart city is 250 acres GIFT in Gujarat is the best example for Green field development of a smart city Select the correct option with respect to development of Green field smart city a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.12) Consider the following countries Italy China Russia France Japan Which of the following countries does not belong to G7 countries? a) 1, 2 and 3 only b) 1, 2 and 4 only c) 2 and 3 only d) All are members of G7 forum Q.13) Union cabinet approved National capital goods policy recently. Consider the following statements with respect to National Capital goods policy The policy aims to create 21 million new jobs by 2025 The policy aims to increase exports from the current 27 percent to 40 percent of production. Ministry of commerce and Industry is the nodal agency for the formulation of NCGP 2016-05-26 Select the correct option a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) All Q.14) Consider the following statements with respect to PAHAL scheme The scheme was first launched in 2015 The scheme encourages the LPG customers to voluntarily give up subsidies The scheme is headed by Ministry of Petroleum and natural resources Select the correct answer a) 2 and 3 only b) 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1 and 3 only Q.15) Recently Global statics about production of e-waste was released. Consider the following statements with respect to e-waste PCB (polychlorinated biphenyls), Beryllium, Barium are some of the commonly found E- waste in India India is the largest producer of E waste in the world Select the correct option a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.16) Consider the following Itai Itai Yokakaichi Asthama Minimata Select the above ailments with their causing pollutants a) 1 – Mercury, 2 – Cadmium, 3 – Sulphur oxide b) 1 – Cadmium, 2 – Sulphur oxide, 3 –Mercury c) 1 – Sulphur oxide, 2 – Cadmium, 3 – Mercury d) 1 – Sulphur oxide, 2 – Mercury, 3 –Cadmium Q.17) Consider the following Transfat are saturated fatty acids They are formed during the process of addition of hydrogen atoms to oil Transfat are naturally found in nature Which of the following statements is/are false with respect to “Transfat”? a) 1 and 2 only b) 1 and 3 only c) 2 only d) None Q.18) Consider the following conventions and select the wrongly matched convention with its intent a) Stockholm convention deals with persistent organic pollutants b) Basel convention deals with the control of hazardous wastes and their disposal c) Montreal conventions deals with preventing the use of substances that deplete ozone layer d) Rotterdam convention are dedicated to the protection of ozone layer Q.19) Consider the following India lies in close proximity with ring of fire The Indian plate is moving northwards diverging with Eurasian plate The Indian plate is moving northwards converging with Eurasian plate Presence of active Volcanoes along Himalayan range Which of the following statements does not explain the possible reason for presence of earth quake in India? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1, 2 and 4 only d) All  Q.20) Consider the following statements with respect to Roads in India Bangalore is one such place in India where the National highway, North south corridor and Golden Quadrilateral intersect The intersection between North-South and East-West corridor is at Jhansi Select the correct answer using the code given below a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither of them Q.21) Consider the following statements The trends in enrolment reflect a decline in the percentage of enrolment in government schools in rural areas In the case of Scheduled Tribe (ST) students, parity between girls and boys has been achieved across all levels of school and higher education. Select the correct code a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both d) None Q.22) Consider the following regarding ‘Digital Gender Atlas for Advancing Girl’s Education in India’. It is a tool To help identify low-performing geographic pockets for girls, particularly from marginalized groups to provides comparative analysis of individual gender-related indicators over the years. The tool has been developed in partnership with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Select the correct code a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both d) None Q.23) Schemes that are aimed both at creating a conducive environment for industrial development and doing business with ease and also expanding government support to impart skill training for workers? Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Shramev Jayate Karyakram Shram Suvidha Portal Permanent Account Number Scheme Random Inspection Scheme Universal Account Number Scheme Apprentice Protsahan Yojana Select the correct code a) 1, 2 and 3 b) 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 c) 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 d) 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 Q.24) Consider the following Malaria Dengue Chagas disease Yellow fever Japanese encephalitis Zika Which of the above are ‘Vector Borne Diseases’? a) 1, 2 and 4 b) 1, 3, 4 and 5 c) 1, 2, 3, 4 and 6 d) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 Q.25) The Universal Health Coverage (UHC) index has been developed by a) WHO b) World Bank c) United Nation d) UNICEF 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

May 25, 2016 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 25th May, 2016

Archives   IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 25th May, 2016   NATIONAL   TOPIC:   General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector or Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.   Healthcare Funding Health financing refers to the “function of a health system concerned with the mobilization, accumulation and allocation of money to cover the health needs of the people, individually and collectively, in the health system… the purpose of health financing is to make funding available, as well as to set the right financial incentives to providers, to ensure that all individuals have access to effective public health and personal health care” (WHO 2000) Empowerment of people comes from the freedom they enjoy, and this includes, among others, freedom from poverty, hunger, and malnutrition, and freedom to work and lead a healthy life (Sen, 1999). Access to health care is critical to improving health status and good health is necessary for empowerment A good healthcare system focusses on being both efficient and progressive; wherein an efficient system minimizes the losses associated with raising and disbursing revenue, and a progressive system redistributes resources from the rich toward the poor Current State— Providing every citizen access to healthcare is the most important step for the sustainable development of every nation. While India can boast of rapid economic development, its unfinished public health agenda is still worrying. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, heart disease, respiratory disorders and diabetes are now jostling alongside infectious, communicable diseases such as tuberculosis and leprosy, causing more than 53% of all deaths in the country— In future, more than 60 million Indians will succumb to NCDs by 2020 According to reports from the World Economic Forum and the Harvard School of Public Health, India is slated to lose $4.58 trillion between 2012 and 2030 as a result of NCDs India’s public spending on health is one of the lowest in the world. According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) World Health Statistics 2015, India spent 1.16% of its gross domestic product (GDP) on health, ranking 187 among 194 countries. In per capita terms, India ranked 157, spending just $60 (purchasing power parity) Despite being the first country to adopt the Global Monitoring Framework on NCDs and including it in the draft Health Policy Action 2015, India’s current budgetary allocation for NCD programmes (targeted at “reducing the number of premature deaths from NCDs by 25% by 2025”), is a minuscule 3% of the total health budget.   Universal Healthcare Coverage (UHC) ’Access to key promotive, preventive, curative, and rehabilitative health interventions for all at an affordable cost’ (World Health Assembly, 2005)   Lack of access to affordable & high-quality healthcare: Thirty per cent of identified illnesses in rural India and 20% in urban areas go untreated because of financial constraints. According to the WHO Health Statistics 2012, 39 million Indians are pushed into poverty due to healthcare costs. WHO Global Health Expenditure Database— 9% of total private health expenditure in India was paid out of pocket by individuals in 2013 About 47% and 31% of hospital admissions in rural and urban India were financed by loans and sale of assets. Global evidence: To meet the basic healthcare need, the country needs to spends at least 5-6% of its GDP on health Issues: Wide disparity in the responsibilities assumed by the states— the gap between the actual spending and the required amount is larger in the relatively low-income states and this results in marked inter-state inequality and in creation of a preventative health infrastructure The Constitution assigns the states predominant responsibility for the provision of social services and coequal responsibility with the central government for the provision of economic services. However, since all broad-based tax handles except the general sales tax are assigned to the central government, there is a high degree of vertical fiscal imbalance. Further, the wide interstate disparities in revenue capacity make it difficult to ensure comparable levels of public services in different states at comparable tax rates Poor access to primary and preventive health care services— India‘s immunization rates and percentage of births attended by skilled health personnel rank among the worst in the world Absence of facilities, manpower and resources make quick detection and preventive care a low priority—late detection of NCDs increases the costs of treatment and management hugely Rising healthcare costs, and the limited access to private insurance policies and other options to fund healthcare Over 80 per cent of India’s population is not covered under any health insurance scheme (National Sample Survey (NSS)) Despite seven years of the Centre-run Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY), only 12 per cent of the urban and 13 per cent of the rural population had access to insurance cover. Solution—Need for a robust healthcare system funded by a multi-payer approach— a comprehensive and diverse system of healthcare financing that pools financial risk and shares the cost burden Public-Private Partnerships: The government needs to consider a multi-payer approach that includes expansion of commercial health insurance plans and other innovative financing models that emerge out of public-private partnerships— Drive global and national attention to NCDs Attract more funds Promote the establishment of stronger policies Ensure wider healthcare coverage that serves the unique needs of diverse rural and urban populations   Government: The government should assume an important regulatory role in the private financing of healthcare by assuring the financial viability of the provider and ensuring inclusive coverage to all. Public investment in healthcare—the percentage expenditure of GDP on healthcare—must be raised from the current 1.1% to at least 2.5-3% by 2025, at the state and federal level, with a greater appropriation of the budget for NCDs. Measurement of the impact of central grants on state’s own spending on health care is important for evaluating the design of the transfer system The new health policy must attract private investment in the healthcare sector through incentives such as tax benefits, underwriting and facilitating bank loans to supplement care in remote and underserved regions.   Connecting the dots: What do you understand by universal health coverage? Explain the measures taken by the government to achieve universal health coverage in India. Refer: Rising healthcare costs: A burden on poor A case of public health in India   MUST READ The ease of living in India - A quarter century of economic reform has transformed the economy. But governments have been less mindful of addressing social and natural capital Hindu   Patently a missed opportunity Hindu Related Articles: An IP policy with no innovation Legally Knotted ‘Innovations’ Patents over Patients Patents and Innovation   Cities without a core-The Indian economy has grown rapidly since 2003-04, but there has not been a corresponding evolution of vibrant metropolitan regions. Indian Express   Chabahar takeoff- The agreement marks a new level in India’s overseas ambitions. Now it must show the resolve to see it through. Indian Express Hindu Hindu Related Articles: Chabahar Port: crucial gateway for India’s objectives   Mind the liberal gaps- India’s democracy shines electorally. But increasing attacks on freedoms in between polls must worry us all. Indian Express   Food inflation: a quick fix won’t help- Controls upon prices and quantities don’t help manage secular price rises, which can only be addressed by fundamental changes to increase supply and create efficient markets Live Mint   Cafe Economics | A new fiscal framework- The move to a flexible fiscal target based on potential output will be welcome, but it will suffer from a major credibility problem unless there is an independent fiscal council that does its own analysis of the budget numbers Live Mint

May 25, 2016 Topper's From IASbaba

TOPPER’S STRATEGY: Darshan H V (Rank 48) CSE-2015

Read about other Topper’s Strategy Dear Friends, We are happy to share the strategy of Darshan H V, IAS topper from the state of karnataka. Preliminary Examination   NCERTs (VI-XII): It is a must for every civil services aspirant to go through these books which are also easily available online. Try and make short notes of the important concepts and terms—will be easier to revise them at later stages of the preparation. Previous Year Question Papers: Get your hands on the solved question papers from Vishal Publications from 1990s. This is essential as many questions in prelims are repeated and if not the questions—some of the concepts definitely are. For example 2015 prelims question on Neora Valley was a repeated question. This will not only help you focus more on the most important concepts but will also boost up your confidence level. Current Affairs: Reading ‘The Hindu’ should be a strict ritual to be followed without fail. Link the topics with different subjects and keep adding the current developments to it. Practice: Personally, I made it a point to solve 12 mock papers in the last 2 months and within the stipulated time of 2 hours only. This will not only help your mind get trained with the ‘timing’ but also, make you examination-ready. Mains Preparation   GS-I Culture, history and freedom movement:  Spectrum and NCERTs Post-independence: NCERT World History: NCERT Indian Society: Thankfully, I could comfortably answer questions on Indian Society with the help of NCERTs. Also, refer Google for current topics that are covered in the news on a regular basis. IASbaba also has a ‘Daily News Analysis’ for a comprehensive coverage of important analytical topics. Click here Geography: NCERTs (X-XI-XII) GS-II   Laxmikant— Read this book again and again Representation of People Act: Google and PRS India website (Salient features presented in a concise manner) Govt. Policies and Welfare Schemes: Refer Yojana and Kurukshetra magazine. They not only help you in building up your knowledge base but also help you supplement your answer with important developments and different perspective. If a physical copy is not available, you can always refer to the Yojana & Kurukshetra Gist prepared by IASbaba Click here Role of Civil Services, Citizens Charter, Transparency, Governance and other topics: Refer 2nd ARC recommendations International affairs: World Focus magazine as well as Analysis done by IASbaba Chabahar Port: Crucial gateway for India’s Objectives- Click here Also IR strategy given on IASbaba will be of great help- Click here International institutions like World Bank, WTO and IMF: Official websites of the respective organization   GS-III Economics: Ramesh Singh Book and NCERT (XII—Macroeconomics) Cropping pattern, Land Reforms, etc.: NCERT and Google   Best Sources: Most of the questions in 2015 GS-III Mains paper were covered from Yojana and Kurukshetra Utilize Google in the best possible manner GS-IV Take a syllabus copy and break/jot down the important points of the syllabus Note down the definitions of all the important concepts (ethics, values, integrity, probity, objectivity, emotional intelligence etc.) For each written topic, correlate that topic with an issue in news or stories from your own life—Let Mahabharata, Ramayana, Panchatantra, inspirational stories of great personalities like Gandhi, Visweswaraiah, Vivekananda, Nelson Mandela, Mother Teresa etc. inspire you and make way to your answers. :-D Case studies: Solve previous years UPSC questions. For every choice made in the case study, make sure to write both merits and demerits. Do refer to Ethics strategy given by IASbaba. It is of great help- Click here   Additionally— Always carry your confidence along with you. Knowledge would follow on its own. Whatever you study will be of nil usage to you unless you make an effort to revise and re-revise. Writing Practice for Mains is an important part of one’s preparation. We used to frame questions on our own and write answers within 8 mins. It is important to note that we will get 9 mins to complete one answer in mains. So try to write more in less time. Also, presentation matters a great deal. Instead of paragraph, I chose to write my answers in points. This will make your answer precise and you can cover more points in less time.   A strategy of a successful candidate should not be made a yardstick; rather it should be enhanced according to your strengths and weaknesses as per your personal strategy.   As I had time constraints with my IB training where even net availability was an issue, I could not refer much IASbaba and benefit from the initiatives, but most of my friends have utilized the website and the free initiatives run by them. Some notable one’s which can be helpful in your preparation are— For analysing important issues: Click here Prelims Prep: Click here Answer writing Practice: Click here Yojana & Kurukshetra: Click here PIB Compilation: Click here AIR-Discussion: Click here The Big Picture-RSTV: Click here   Am very happy this website involves a lot of contribution from people in services including Yeshwanth Sir(ranked 107 in 2010) and Srinivas Sir and lot more people from top institutions of India and in services being cofounders of IASbaba. This adds to the genuineness of the website in comparison to the market. Unlike the market which floods information to students, the website is smart minimalistic, time bound and maximum impact in its approach. Kudos and All the very best!      

May 25, 2016 60 Days Plan 2019 - Daily Prelims Test

IASbaba '60 Day Plan' - Prelims Test 2016 [Day 9]

Click here to get all the Tests- Archives Hello Friends Hope you are enjoying Daily questions. The link for Day 8 solution is active now.  Note- Once in every 10 Days, we will release a document on doubts and controversial questions. So keep pointing. :) 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 9] Q.1) Which among the following is/are relative merits of GDP? It enables central banks and policymakers to evaluate whether the economy is in recession or inflation GDP is available for practically every country in the world and allows crude comparisons between the standard of living in different countries GDP has also held significance as a universal metric, as it includes voluntary market transactions Choose the correct code a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 only c) 2 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3  Q.2) Macroeconomics sees an economy as a combination of 4 sectors. They are a) Land, labour, capital, entrepreneur b) Households, firms, government, external sector c) Consumer, entrepreneur, firms, government d) Consumer, firms, government, external sector Q.3) Consider the following statements about Nominal and Real GDP:  Nominal GDP refers to the current year production of financial goods and services valued at base year prices Real GDP refers to the current year production of financial goods and services valued at current year prices Which of the above statements is/are not correct? a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with regard to GDP and GNP:  Gross Domestic Product (GDP), measures the output of goods and services produced within the geographical boundary of a nation regardless of the residence of that labour or owner of capital. Gross National Product (GNP) measures the total output of goods and services produced by residents of a nation regardless of where they live and work or where they own capital. Which of the above statements is/are correct? a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both 1 and 2 d) Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Which of the following provides correct definition of GDP deflator?  a) The ratio of GDP at current prices to the GDP at constant prices. b) GDP at constant prices divided by Wholesale Price Index. c) The ratio of GDP at constant prices to the GDP at current prices. d) None of the above.  Q.6) Which among the following is correct in regard to Social Progress Index (SPI)? SPI goes beyond the traditional measure of GDP and has most parameters that are required to fulfill SDGs SPI is based on three fundamental pillars: basic needs for survival; access to the building blocks to improve living conditions, and access to opportunity to pursue goals and ambitions SPI focuses on outcomes rather than inputs that are used in GDP SPI can best be described as a complementary index to GDP and can be used along with GDP to achieve social progress Choose the correct code a) 1, 2 and 4 only b) 2 and 4 only c) 1, 2 and 3 only d) All the above Q.7) Recently union government made some changes to the GDP calculation method. Which of the following is/are correct with regards to these changes?  The base year of estimating national income data is changed from 2004-05 to 2011-12 GDP is estimated at market prices, which excludes indirect taxes but includes subsidies The change in base year has pushed up the country’s economic growth as compared to older series data Choose the correct code a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 only c) 1 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3  Q.8) The most appropriate measure of a country’s economic growth is its a) Gross Domestic Product b) Net Domestic Product c) Net National Product d) Per Capita Real Income Q.9) Consider the following statements regarding purchasing power parity.  It is a technique used to determine the relative value of different currencies. This concept works on the assumption that markets work on the law of one price. This is a popular method used by the IMF and WB in studying the living standards of people in different economies. Which of the following is/are correct? a) 1 and 2 only b) 1 and 3 only c) 1 only d) All of the above  Q.10) Which among the following are a part of core industries? Fertilizers Refinery Products Natural Gas Iron Cement Electricity Choose the correct code: a) 1,2,4,5 and 6 b) 1,2,3,4 and 6 c) 1,2,3,5 and 6 d) 1,2,3,4,5 and 6 Q.11) International Solar Alliance (ISA) will have membership from countries  a) Lying above the Tropic of Cancer b) Lying between the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn c) Lying below the Tropic of Cancer and above the Tropic of Capricorn d) Along Equator and Tropic of Cancer Q.12) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) and Millennium Development Goals (MDG’s) commonly mentions about Infrastructure Poverty and Hunger Inequality Peace and Justice Water and Sanitation Select themes common to both, SDG’s and MDG’s? a) 1, 2, 3 and 5 b) 2, 3, 4 and 5 c) 2, 3 and 5 d) 1, 2 and 3  Q.13) Select the correct statement a) The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) of women is significantly lower than that of males in both rural and urban areas. b) The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) of males is significantly lower than that of women in both rural and urban areas. c) The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) of women is significantly lower than that of males in rural areas but higher in urban areas. d) The Labour Force Participation Rate (LFPR) of women is significantly lower than that of males urban areas but higher in rural areas. Q.14) Consider the following statements regarding Turkey Istanbul is the capital of Turkey Syria, Bulgaria and Georgia are few nations that border Turkey Choose the correct answer using the code given below a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.15) Consider the following statements regarding Moscow declaration. It was signed during third BRICS ministerial conference held at Moscow It is concerned with ending gender discrimination, and providing Equal access to women in Education  ,Employment etc Choose the correct answer using the code given below a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.16) Puga valley in J&k is famous for availability of which of the following energy reserve a) Coal b) Geo Thermal c) Hydro d) Wind Q.17) The government of India scheme known as “Anubhav” refers to a) Speedy redressal of Infrastructural projects b) A platform for retiring employees c) A new communication satellite on the anvil d) None of the above Q.18) Recently Ministry of Water resources and Ganga rejuvenation appointed “Ganga task force” for which of the following purposes? a) To lay down guidelines to promote tourism in areas surrounding Ganga river b) To ensure that industry and civilians do not pollute the river c) To remove silt and other pollutants from Ganga river d) To protect Ganges river dolphins Q.19) Consider the following statements with respect to Indian rhino vision 2020 The Indian Rhino vision aims to increase the number one horned rhinoceros to 3000 by 2020. Kaziranga national park houses nearly 75% of world rhinoceros WWF (WWF-India and WWF AREAS) and the International Rhino Foundation (IRF) are the two major partnering of Indian Rhino vision 2020 Select the correct statements a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1 and 3 only d) All   Q.20) Consider the following statements with respect to Ancient Nalanda University The university taught/helped propagates Hinayana school of Buddhism. It was started by a ruler known as Kumaragupta.  Select the correct answer with respect to Nalanda university a) 1 only b) 2 only c) Both d) None Q.21) Consider the following Defence of the body Metabolic activities Damage repair Which of the following are the primary functions of proteins? a) 1 and 2 only b) 2 and 3 only c) 1, 2 and 3 only d) 1 and 3 only Q.22) Recently it is found that sea ice cover surrounding Antarctica has been slightly increasing in sharp contrast to drastic loss of ice occurring in the Arctic region. What can be the possible reason for the same? The topography of Antarctica and the depth of the ocean surrounding it Topography of Antarctica and depth of ocean influence the winds and ocean currents to drive the formation and evolution of Antarctica’s sea ice cover and help sustain it. Select the correct code a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both d) None Q.23) Which of the following are not affected by Solar Storm/flare? Short wave radio communication Lon range radio communication Chromosphere Ionosphere Astronauts Select the appropriate code a) 1 and 2 b) 2 and 4 c) 1, 4 and 5 d) None Q.24) Consider the following statements regarding ‘Remittance’ India is world’s largest remittance recipient in 2015 Indian remittance has declined as compared to last year. While global remittance has decreased, remittance for developing countries increased in 2015 Select the correct code a) Only 1 b) 1 and 3 c) 1 and 2 d) 1, 2 and 3 Q.25) Consider the following statements Seawater is utilised to produce a solar fuel that is hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) Chlorine in seawater is mainly responsible for enhancing the photo-catalytic activity Select the correct code a) Only 1 b) Only 2 c) Both d) None Download the Solution- Click here  P.S- Attempt these questions within 20 minutes with full honesty and write your results in the comment box. Next day, come back and check your result. You can also discuss the important concepts and issues, in case of doubts (among peers) All the best IASbaba

May 25, 2016 Topper's From IASbaba

TOPPER’S STRATEGY: Poonam (Rank 308) CSE-2015

Read about other Topper’s Strategy Hi all, I am privileged to share my journey of UPSC which is inclusive of both struggle and success and I would also say slightly different from many others yet at the same time very similar to a lot of you. Let me Introduce myself, I am Poonam, Rank 308 CSE 2015, Roll no.0506094. This is my Fourth attempt at UPSC ,Been selected twice in Railways in my previous attempts(CSE 2009 and 2010).My Prelims marks and mains mark sheet are attached.     Personal Profile   I have been born and brought up in Delhi, though my ancestral roots belong to Village Chhara, Distt. Jhajjar (Haryana). I am happily married for the last 7 years and have an infant son 8 months old. I started very late for UPSC Preparation (In fact I gave my first attempt at the age of 28 years). As specified above I started my career as a Primary Teacher in a Delhi Govt. School and along with the job did my graduation as external Student from Delhi University. After completing my graduation I appeared for different Bank PO Exams and SSC Graduate Level Exam and cleared all of them(SBI PO,SBI Associates PO, Union Bank Of India PO, SSC Graduate Level 2005) but finally chose SBI PO( As I look back, I regret that there was nobody to guide me about UPSC Exam, had somebody at that time would have guided me about UPSC Exam I would have given it a try at that stage and may be you would have been reading this interview much earlier. Also, I want to share the fact that at that stage I used to be very under-confident about my chances at CS Examination. I am sharing these thoughts so that all of those who are somehow feeling the same as I had once been, can come out of it and not repeat the mistake which I did. After 3 years in SBI, I joined the Income Tax Department securing a very decent rank(7) at all India level in SSC graduate level Examination 2006 which gave me the confidence of writing UPSC and also the fact that being a General Category candidate my attempts were going to be wasted anyhow  because of my age. I thus gave my first attempt at UPSC CSE in 2009 and got Railways (RPF). I didn’t join that service and sat for CSE 2010 but again I got Railways (IRPS). Meanwhile, I had cleared Haryana PSC and joined as Dy.SP in Haryana Police in 2011. In 2011, I couldn’t qualify Prelims and my tryst with UPSC was over due to age limit. Later, as 2011 candidates were accorded an extra attempt at CSE 2015 so I got an opportunity to appear again for UPSC. This attempt came as a great challenge and opportunity as I was out of touch with preparation and the fact that I was 9 months pregnant at the time of prelims and while mains I had a son about 3 months old was making it even harder. But as luck would have it, I got my best rank in the most challenging circumstances.   Preparation Strategy   Because of my special circumstances I could study only for 2-3 months for Prelims and for Mains I could hardly get a month before mains (since my baby was born in Sept.) So, could not prepare the whole syllabus nor could study for long time. Whatever little I used to study I concentrated on focusing on the traditional areas like Polity, History, Geography, and my optional Sociology. Also, I used to make notes of certain key areas in every paper for quick reference n revision. During this attempt I focused exclusively on Self Study, Online material sp. Mrunal youtube lectures on Geography n Economics ,Selfstudyias Prelims Test Series, Clearias prelims Test Series ,Iasbaba TLP Programme, InsightsonIndia Secure Initiative on Current Events. Also, I was fortunate to have regular mentoring of Pavan Sir for GS and Ethics Papers.  I relied on the standard books of polity like M.Laxmikanth, Rajiv Ahir Spectrum for modern history, Shankar’s Environment Notes, Culture of Nitin Singhania n of course the tried n tested old NCERT Books.The detailed list is as follows: Topic Strategy/booklist/comment History Ancient Old Ncert Book,Own Notes. History Medieval Old Ncert Book,Own Notes. History Modern (Freedom Struggle) Bipin Chandra, Rajiv Ahir. World History Old NCERT Book Culture and society Old Ncert Book,Nitin Singhania Notes and Newspaper. Polity (theory + current) M.laxmikanth. Economy (theory + current) Mrunal youtube lectures,Economic Survey. Science (theory + current) Old Ncert book. Environment (theory + current) Shankar Ias Notes. geography physical Mrunal Rajtanil Mam youtube lectures ,Oxford Atlas,NCERT. geography India Mrunal Rajtanil Mam youtube lectures,Oxford Atlas,NCERT. geography world Mrunal Rajtanil Mam youtube lectures,NCERT,Oxford Atlas. other national/international current affairs Newspapers like Hindu and Indian Express,RSTv,InsightsonIndia. Schemes, Policy & Filler Stuff Websites like Mrunal,Iasbaba,InsightsonIndia. General Studies 4: Ethics, Integrity, Case studies Pavan Sir Ethics Class Notes and 2 nd ARC Report and any book on lexicon . Since a lot is dependent on Mains, and considering the lengthy papers I think one need to maintain the speed as I suffered a lot because of lack of speed and time management. In every paper I was not able to maintain speed and thus have to leave 20-30 marks paper unattempted. Writing Answers every day is the key to obtain good marks in Mains and I sincerely believe I could have gained at least 40 marks had I done that practice as I would have been much better in my speed and time management. For this, I strongly recommend IASbaba TLP Initiative and InsightsonIndia Secure Initiative on current events. I would like to thank IASbaba for TLP sociology initiative that helped me immensely.     Learnings from the Journey   As I Look back now, I feel that lack of confidence in myself actually costed me a lot. We all need to remember the fact that it is Just an Exam like many others and can be cracked with dedication and a strategic preparation. We should not be scared of this Exam. Many of us write our first attempt to be able to just clear prelims (as happened with me in my first attempt CSE 2009, I could clear Prelims but since was focus was only on clearing prelims I had not prepared enough for Mains and thus though qualified Mains but got just above Cut Off Score and thus even getting good marks in Interview (208) I could get only Railways. This attitude of not taking the holistic view of all stages of Exam Prelims, Mains and interview costed me my first Attempt. Secondly, I feel that this Exam actually requires Consistent Efforts. There should be more regularity in the Preparation. It is more beneficial to study for 6 hours each rather than studying one day for 18 hours and not studying another day at all. Also, study schedule should be properly planned and should be followed religiously. Prepare a monthly planner, weekly planner and daily planner based on the syllabus and time at one’s disposal. Every morning plan your day (what is your target today) and every night audit your output. Thirdly, never let stress take over you. All of us have d same anxiety and pressure of this exam but handle dis nervousness effectively otherwise it will result in more problems. Be an optimist always. (I am sharing this fact because of the personal experience of the failure in Prelims in my third attempt. I was almost confident of getting a very good rank in my second attempt but unfortunately even though obtaining a very good score in mains of CSE 2010 I got a very bad score in Interview n could again get Railways (IRPS) and this threw me into depression. I could not prepare for the Changed pattern of CSAT of 2011 Attempt and the stress n pressure of last attempt made me lose in the first round itself. Now, I realize that had I taken the failure of obtaining good rank in CSE 2010 in a positive stride and not taken stress of last attempt I could have easily managed the changed pattern of CSE 2011 and would have easily qualified Prelims. (I have earlier qualified Bank P.O exams and CSAT was not that difficult thing for me but the stress I took in the last attempt ruined my Third Chance). Fourthly, we need to take into account the factor of luck also in this exam. One need to understand that to be in the list or not is also dependent on so many permutation and combination and one should also factor in the handwork of one’s destiny in it. Give your best shot at UPSC but also have a backup plan to fall back on as life goes on with or without UPSC. Been through this momentous journey of struggle and success ,I would only say have a positive thinking ,take both success and failure in your stride comfortably, learn from your failures but learn more from your success as it allows you to respect the struggle of all those who couldn’t succeed. Thank God, family, friends for their role in your success and support in your failure. Whatever be the case try to move forward in your life, give your best and leave the rest to the almighty. I would only say this is just an exam, Life is a much bigger canvas and it is having both bright and dark shades in it and both have their beauty. Explore Life and yourself. May be you are meant for other bigger things and for doing great things in life one don’t need to be a civil servant only, Being a great human being is enough and that is wat really matters. Wishing you all very best for not only this exam but the greatest examination called life. I hope that reading about my journey can prove to be helpful in any way possible. You can reach me at poonamrandhawasingh@gmail.com. I would love to help you within my limited abilities.   IASbaba: Poonam's life is a lesson for many of you out there. Look back and think!

May 24, 2016 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 24th May, 2016

ArchivesIASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs – 24th May, 2016 ENVIRONMENT TOPIC:   General Studies 2 Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessmentWater Pricing Regime Water scarcity is defined as the ratio of total surface/groundwater footprint to surface/groundwater availability in a given river basin. If the ratio is 1, it means that available surface/groundwater is being fully utilized—moderate scarcity WFN database recognizes four kinds of water scarcity situations: Low (ratio<1), Moderate (ratio between 1 and 1.5), Significant (ratio between 1.5 and 2) Severe (ratio>2).Viability of moving towards an elaborate water pricing regime—Pricing the income-starved: The most disadvantaged of the lot are the same people who are already reeling under severe economic hardship—in many cases, they being a part of the population who also waste the maximum water (case of wastages of water by domestic helps under the assumption that the water in their employer’s house is always available) A 2015 study by the International Monetary Fund concluded that water subsidies provided through public utilities amounted to 0.6% of global gross domestic product in 2012 and is “also inequitable, disproportionately benefiting upper-income groups”. Erosion of export-advantage:Inefficient agricultural usage of water and exports of water-intensive crops makes India a large virtual exporter of water In 2014-15, India exported 37.2 lakh tonnes of basmati. To export this rice, the country used around 10 trillion litres of water. To put it another way, India virtually exported 10 trillion litres of water. At least one-fifth of this would have been surface/groundwater. While the country strives to increase manufacturing exports, care should be taken to maximize water use efficiency lest it ends up virtually exporting more water.Agro-India—Domestic usage accounts for less than 5% of India’s annual water consumption, while agriculture’s share is 90%Water Footprint Network Classifies water usage into three types: Green (rain water); Blue (surface and groundwater); Grey (amount of water required to carry off pollutants) Gives data on water use for different purposes: WFN data for 1996-2005 shows that crop production, grazing and animal water supply (broadly agricultural use) accounted for a little over 92% of total water use in the world. Industry and domestic use accounted for another 4.4% and 3.6%, respectively. India: Way ahead of all countries in terms of usage of blue water, showing the high rate of exploitation of surface and groundwater in the country India’s average water footprint (both direct and indirect use) and blue water (surface/groundwater) footprint for all major crops (wheat, paddy, maize, sugarcane and cotton) is higher than the global average—extremely inefficient Political economy: The public procurement policies promoting cultivation of water-intensive crops in those very states where the usage is most inefficient Eg: The severe water crisis in Latur was in stark contrast to flourishing fields of sugarcane, a water-guzzling crop, sustained with the patronage of politicians in the state of Maharashtra. Punjab has the highest share of rice procurement in the country despite having a very high water footprint for the crop Madhya Pradesh, despite having a much higher water footprint, has a higher procurement share of wheat than Uttar PradeshDesigning Water Pricing:Government does not exercise control over the sources of water as it does over other natural resourcesTarget: Irrigation sector It alone comprises more than 78% of the total water usage in India Irrigation consumption is an area where the scope for increase in efficiency is very high Sixty-one per cent of the irrigation uses surface water which will require metering and appropriate pricingStrategy for pricing should be such that— The cost of migration from one method of irrigation to another—or from electricity to diesel—offsets the difference in cost between the two Separation of electric feeders for agricultural and non-agricultural purposes The pricing should also take into account income distribution of water users and hence, be accommodative towards poorer farmers or householdsTherefore, water pricing should be designed in order to promote efficiency, leaving equity consideration to other policy tools. IASbaba’s Views: Setting appropriate prices is indispensable to providing adequate water to India’s growing population. The under-pricing and reckless usage of water has damaging long-run consequences for households who have limited and poor quality water services and for water supplying entities that are unable to invest and expand water coverage. Read:The importance of Water ManagementManaging India’s FreshwaterSCIENCE & TECHNOLOGYTOPIC:   General Studies 3 Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Achievements of Indians in science & technology; indigenization of technology and developing new technology. Space Technology and achievements of ISROISRO’s Reusable Launch Vehicle Technology Demonstrator (RLV-TD)India (on May 23, 2016) successfully launched a Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV) space shuttleLaunched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre, Sriharikota in Andhra PradeshHypersonic Flight Experiment (RLV-TD HEX-01) RLV-TD HEX-01 was flight tested successfully The ‘dummy’ RLV was launched into the orbit around Earth, and then glided back onto a virtual runway in the Bay of Bengal, some 500 kilometres from the coast. The launch vehicle began its descent followed by atmospheric re-entry at five times the speed of sound and then moved smoothly down to the landing spot in the Bay of Bengal. This RLV-TD HEX-01 is described as “a very preliminary step” in the development of a reusable rocket. The successful demonstrator meant they can now plan for the next stage—a landing on earth. The final version of the resuable rocket will take 10 to 15 years to build according to ISRO. What distinguishes each of ISRO’s missions, however, is the cost: almost all the missions, including the Moon and Mars missions, have been executed at a fraction of the cost of similar missions by other space agencies.Benefits of reusable space shuttles – Cost effective space missions in future: A reusable launch vehicle will be capable of taking satellites to space and then landing back on earth so that it can be used more than once and is expected to drastically reduce the cost of space missions in the future. More attractive player in the international market: A reusable launch vehicle will put India one among the only a handful of nations who possess the capability of developing its own space shuttle. It will make them more attractive player in the international market. Might be cheaper than PSLV and GSLV: ISRO argues that RLV will be substantially cheaper than the PSLV which it is likely to replace. The average cost of construction of PSLV is about Rs 120 crore. The heaviest version of PSLV, the XL, cost Rs 145 crore. GSLV costs about Rs 173 crore.Comparison: PSLV, GSLV and RLV India currently uses two kinds of launch vehicles — PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle) and GSLV (Geostationary Satellite Launch Vehicle). The PSLV is the older of the two and the more successful, having already clocked 30 successful launches. GSLV, which began in earnest only during the 1990s, has had four successful flights but an equal number of failures too. An advanced version of the GSLV, called Mk-III, that will be capable of putting very heavy satellites – up to about 4,000 kg — into space is still under development. The PSLV can carry satellites up to about 1,500 kg in weight. The average cost of construction of PSLV is about Rs 120 crore. The heaviest version of PSLV, the XL, cost Rs 145 crore. GSLV costs about Rs 173 crore, according to information provided by the Department of Space. Nearly 80 per cent of the cost of launch vehicles are structural and only 20 per cent are those of fuel or other expendables. RLV’s development is an attempt to recover the structural costs involved in developing such technologies. The entire structure of the RLV can be used for future missions, thus substantially saving on the costs. The actual saving will depend on the number of missions the reusable vehicle can be used for. The current development cost for the RLV has been put at about Rs 90 crore. In contrast, the development cost of GSLV, including the Mk-III version, has been somewhere close to Rs 3,000 crore. The final development cost of the RLV will only be known when it is operationalised in about ten years’ time. ISRO’s argument is that it will be substantially cheaper than the PSLV which it is likely to replace.Challenges: Series of experiments yet to be tested: hypersonic flight experiment (HEX) will be followed by the landing experiment (LEX), return flight experiment (REX) and scramjet propulsion experiment (SPEX). Biggest challenge for ISRO next will be to land the shuttle on a runway, just like a plane. In order to do that, ground infrastructure has to be built, including a runway, and the shuttle will need to have the capability to descend from hypersonic speed and land comfortably.Connecting the dots: There have been frequent allegations that ISRO’s missions are a waste of money given that India still struggles to provide people with the most basic of amenities. Critically comment. 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