Oct 10, 2022 Baba’s Explainer

Baba's Explainer - Moonlighting Debate

ARCHIVES Syllabus GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. GS-3: Inclusive growth and issues arising from it.  Context: Recently, there has been a growing debate on the issue of moonlighting where certain companies have openly opposed it while others have supported it. What is moonlighting? Moonlighting refers to the practice of working a second job outside normal business hours, typically without the employer’s knowledge. It is called so as the side employment is typically performed at night or on the weekends. The phrase became well-known when Americans began looking for second jobs in addition to their regular 9-to-5 jobs to supplement their income. Moonlighting has become a topic of debate in the IT industry as working from home became the normal norm during the Covid-19 pandemic, which is believed to have led to a rise in dual employment. Moonlighting is now leading to compliance issues within companies and has also stirred a debate over whether this is the future of gig economy. What factors has led to increase in moonlighting? It is argued that in the absence of overtime pay and regulation of employment contracts, employees are engaging in moonlighting for additional income or for developing skills, or to pursue other interests outside their job. Moonlighting could be considered cheating if an employee’s contract calls for non-compete and single employment, which is the situation with the majority of conventional employment contracts. However, it is not cheating if the employment contracts do not have such a clause or provide relaxations. One of the reason for moonlighting is the shortage of skilled workers. “India is one of the countries with a huge perceived gap in skills, with 54% of employees strongly/gap in skills”. Then there is the emergence of crowdsourcing platforms like Topcoder which provide short-term project-based services through hiring IT professionals. The idea reflects a practical recognition of the changing nature of white-collar jobs. In the last century, work from home was never thought of. But in the current times, it has become a common norm. Likewise, maybe we are indeed on the cusp of change when it comes to the gig economy. How are companies reacting to moonlighting? The IT sector is divided when it comes to moonlighting. Some call it unethical while others believe it is the need of the hour. Wipro has sacked 300 employees following the discovery that they were working for rival firms on the side. Wipro Chairman Rishad Premji has said “This is cheating – plain and simple.” Infosys has warned staff against moonlighting, saying it could lead to termination. On the other hand, Swiggy announced an “industry first” policy that allowed moonlighting for its employees. “Any project or activity that is taken up outside office hours or on the weekend, without affecting productivity, and does not have a conflict of interest, can be picked up by the employees.” The argument for supporting moonlighting is that “Employment is a contract between an employer who pays employee working for them for ‘n’ number of hours a day. Now what an employee does after this ‘n’ hours is his/her freedom” What Are Companies’ Concerns? Confidentiality breaches: Moonlighting may give employees the opportunity to divulge trade secrets if they are working in a similar industry and job. Employees need to understand the importance of maintaining confidential information that could benefit a competing organization. Integrity of Employees: Employees working for rival firms is considered as a “complete violation of integrity in its deepest form”. Loss of productivity: If employees are working long hours, the second job may cause the employee to become distracted, unproductive, and neglect job responsibilities because of physical fatigue. Cost Factor: Employees may use company resources for their second job which increases operating expenses. Reluctance to come to Office: HR experts have attributed moonlighting as one of the factors that makes many reluctant to come back to office. In fact, 42% of the participants said they would consider changing their jobs or even quitting if they were not allowed to work from home. Tax complexities– If moonlighting income is received as salary, both the employers will consider standard deduction to calculate the tax liability. Additionally, both the employers will take into account the basic exemption limit and consider the tax slab as per the respective salaries. This could lead to the TDS being deducted by each employer to be lower than the taxpayer’s aggregate tax liability. Is moonlighting legal in India? Overemployment, which is called dual employment in India, is technically permissible in the US and the UK from a tax perspective. A second employment in the UK could alter a worker’s tax status, but it wouldn’t be expressly noted as such to the payroll department of the first employer and would probably go unreported in larger organisations. The US tax system is simpler since it is built on the idea of self-assessment and voluntary reporting. In Glaxo Laboratories (I) Limited vs Labour Court, Meerut & others, the court held that the power to regulate the behaviour of the workmen outside the duty hours by the employer amounts to the contract of service being reduced to contract of slavery. Moonlighting is not defined under any statute in Indian employment laws. Moonlighting is also not necessarily dual employment, which is a formal employer-employee relationship, complete with legal obligations like minimum wage, provident fund, gratuity etc. It could also be side hustles or freelancing which can be with or without the knowledge of the primary employer. Under the Factories Act, dual employment is prohibited. However, in some states, IT companies are exempt from that rule. However, a person with a similar set of jobs could give rise to concerns about a violation of confidentiality because many employers include such restrictions in their employment agreements in addition to prohibitions against holding down multiple jobs. Does the law lay out punitive action against moonlighting? Unless an employer is able to prove that an employee acted against the interest of the company, courts may not uphold severe punishment of termination of employment. The courts of law in India dealing with employment are writ courts and labour courts which exercise jurisdiction based on equity or fairness. Therefore, the courts may lean in favour of the employee unless the contravention of the employee has led to serious prejudice and loss to the employer. The Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship, and Electronics and IT, said that employers should not to suppress employees who want to monetise, develop and demonstrate but also urged employees not to violate their agreements with employers. Main Practice Question: Is moonlighting changing the work scenario in India? Critically analyse. Note: Write answer his question in the comment section. table{ border: 1px solid; } table tr, table td{ border: 1px solid; }

Oct 10, 2022 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2022 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 10th October 2022

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) – CLICK HERE The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions.To take the Test Click Here

Oct 8, 2022 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 8th October 2022

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) VyomMitra Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Science and Technology Context: Vyom mitra, the humanoid designed and developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to fly aboard unmanned test missions ahead of the Gaganyaan human space-flight mission, is undergoing pre-flight ground tests at the ISRO Inertial Systems Unit (IISU) here. About the Half-humanoid: Vyommitra is a female-looking spacefaring humanoid robot being developed by the Indian Space Research Organisation to function on-board the Gaganyaan, a crewed orbital spacecraft. A humanoid is basically a robot with the appearance of a human being. ISRO’s Vyommitra (vyoma = space, mitra = friend) is also being called a half-humanoid since she will only have a head, two hands and a torso, and will not have lower limbs. Like any robot, a humanoid’s functions are determined by the computer systems to which it is connected. Why is ISRO developing a humanoid? ISRO plans to send a human into space for the first time by 2022. It is racing against time to develop a crew module and rocket systems that will ensure the safe travel and return of the Indian astronaut. Other countries that have successfully launched humans into space did so after having used animals for conducting tests of their rockets and crew recovery systems. ISRO will use the humanoid to test the efficacy of its GSLV Mk III rocket to transport a human to space and back. The humanoid is under development at a robotics laboratory at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre. Once flown into space, ISRO’s half-humanoid will be able to test systems in the crew module meant for the survival and safe travel of the first Indian astronaut in 2022. What are the tasks that Vyommitra will perform in space? A central character in the science-fiction film Interstellar (2014), which is about space and time travel, is an artificial-intelligence -and-robotics-powered computer system called TARS, which talks to the astronauts, assists them in mission functions, and even rescues them in times of crisis. TARS was not a humanoid, but a robotic system with exceptional capabilities. The Vyom mitra humanoid, which will test the ground for the human spaceflight, will be a very basic version of a TARS-type, artificial-intelligence-and-robotics system. The activities that Vyom mitra will be able to perform, once fully developed for the unmanned flight, will include: procedures to use equipment on board the spacecraft’s crew module such as safety mechanisms and switches, receiving and acting on commands sent from ground stations attaining launch and orbital postures, responding to the environment, generating warnings, replacing carbon dioxide canisters, operating switches, monitoring of the crew module, receiving voice commands, responding via speech (bilingual). Vyommitra will also report back to Earth on the changes occurring in the crew module during the spaceflight and return, such as heat radiation levels, to enable ISRO to understand the safety levels required in the crew module that will eventually fly a human being. MUST READ: ISRO’s Small Satellite Launch Vehicle Source:   The Hindu                         Previous Year Question Q.1) With reference to India’s satellite launch vehicles, consider the following statements: PSLVs launch the satellites useful for Earth resources monitoring whereas GSLVs are designed mainly to launch communication satellites. Satellites launched by PSLV appear to remain permanently fixed in the same position in the sky, as viewed from a particular location on Earth. GSLV Mk III is a four-staged launch vehicle with the first and third stages using solid rocket motors; and the second and fourth stages using liquid rocket engines. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (2018) 1 only 2 and 3 1 and 2 3 only Quality Council of India (QCI) Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Governance Context: Union Minister of Commerce and Industry, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution and Textiles, recently asked the Quality Council of India (QCI) to strive to bring about convergence of all the various quality and standards organizations in the country. About Quality Council of India: Quality Council of India (QCI) was established as a National body for Accreditation on recommendations of Expert Mission of EU through a Cabinet decision in 1996. Accordingly, QCI was set up through a PPP(Public-Private partnership) model as an independent autonomous organization with the support of Government of India and the Indian Industry represented by the three premier industry associations: Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM), Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). QCI is a non-profit organization registered under the Societies Registration Act XXI of 1860. The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Ministry of Commerce and Industry was designated as the nodal point for all matters connected with quality and QCI to structure and help implementation of the Cabinet decision. QCI has been established to create a mechanism for independent third party assessment of products, services and processes. Governance Structure of QCI: The various bodies of QCI which makes Governance Structure are: The Governing Council (GC) The Governing Body (GB) Finance Committee (FC) Accreditation Boards (ABs) and Quality Promotion Board Key Objectives: QCI has been established to create a mechanism for independent third party assessment of products, services and processes. It plays a pivotal role at the national level in propagating, adoption and adherence to quality standards in all important spheres of activities including education, healthcare, environment protection, governance, social sectors, infrastructure sector and such other areas of organized activities that have significant bearing in improving the quality of life and wellbeing of the citizens of India. Additional Information: Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC): ONDC is in an early stage of formation that been incorporated as a Section 8 company in December 2021 with the Quality Council of India and Protean eGov Technologies Limited as initial promoters. ONDC is an initiative aiming at promoting open networks for all aspects of exchange of goods and services over digital or electronic networks. The foundations of ONDC are to be open protocols for all aspects in the entire chain of activities in exchange of goods and services, similar to hypertext transfer protocol for information exchange over internet, simple mail transfer protocol for exchange of emails and unified payments interface for payments. About Food Corporation of India (FCI) The Food Corporation of India was setup under the Food Corporation’s Act 1964 , in order to fulfil following objectives of the Food Policy: Effective price support operations for safeguarding the interests of the farmers. Distribution of foodgrains throughout the country for public distribution system. Maintaining satisfactory level of operational and buffer stocks of foodgrains to ensure National Food Security Since its inception, FCI has played a significant role in India’s success in transforming the crisis management oriented food security into a stable security system. Objectives of FCI: In its 50 years of service to the nation, FCI has played a significant role in India’s success in transforming the crisis management oriented food security into a stable security system. FCI’s Objectives are: To provide farmers remunerative prices To make food grains available at reasonable prices, particularly to vulnerable section of the society To maintain buffer stocks as measure of Food Security To intervene in market for price stabilization Source: PIB                   Begum Samru Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – History Context: The Basilica of Our Lady of Graces, one of India’s minor basilicas situated in Sardhana in Uttar Pradesh, was constructed in 1822 by Begum Samru, a woman of humble origins that came to be popularly known as the only Catholic queen of India. About Begum Samru: Begum Samru (1750’s – 1836) was a Muslim who converted to Catholicism. She was a nautch-girl (dancing girl) who became a warrior and an aristocrat. She was a shrewd leader who was able to find a favourable position in the ever-dynamic political terrain of 18th century northern India. While she had first supported the waning Mughal empire, from the 1790’s the Begum began to provide service to the rising Marathas, before joining the British to ensure that she could maintain her landholding rights if they emerged victorious. It was in a kotha (household) she met Walter Reinhardt, an Austrian mercenary whom she married. The Basilica of Our Lady of Graces: It is one of the 23 minor basilicas of India, and the only one in the north, after the church was bestowed the status by Pope John XXIII in 1961. The architect was an Italian engineer, Antonio Reghellini. Completed in 1822, it is commonly believed that the church was built as a replica of St Peter’s Basilica in Rome. The structure consists of a blend of architectural styles, of Indian and Islamic features added to a European cross-plan church. The church’s domes lie next to large steeples reminiscent of Islamic minarets, while the central altar contains pietra dura or parchinkari designs that are found in the Taj Mahal and Red Fort. Source: Indian Express Previous Year Questions Q.1) Who among the following was associated as Secretary with Hindu Female School which later came to be known as Bethune Female School?  (2021) Annie Besant Debandranath Tagore Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar Sarojini Naidu No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels (NOPEC) bill Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – International Relations Context: The No Oil Producing and Exporting Cartels (NOPEC) bill, which passed a Senate committee recently, is intended to protect U.S. consumers and businesses from engineered oil spikes. About NOPEC bill: The bipartisan NOPEC bill would tweak U.S. antitrust law to revoke the sovereign immunity that has protected OPEC+ members and their national oil companies from lawsuits. If signed into law, the U.S. attorney general would gain the option to sue the oil cartel or its members, such as Saudi Arabia, in federal court. It is unclear exactly how a federal court could enforce judicial antitrust decisions against a foreign nation. Previous versions of the NOPEC bill have failed amid resistance by oil industry groups, including the top U.S. oil lobby group, the American Petroleum Institute (API). Concerns about the bill: One industry concern is that NOPEC legislation could ultimately lead to overproduction by OPEC, bringing prices so low that U.S. energy companies have difficulty boosting output. Saudi Arabia and other OPEC countries have some of the world’s cheapest and easiest reserves to produce. A wave of oil from OPEC producers, even at a time of concerns about Russian supply could chill U.S. drillers, some of which are already reluctant to boost output despite the cut. Some analysts have said that NOPEC could lead to unintended blowback, including the possibility that other countries could take similar action on the United States for withholding agricultural output to support domestic farming, for example. OPEC nations could also strike back in other ways. In 2019, for example, Saudi Arabia threatened to sell its oil in currencies other than the dollar if Washington passed a version of the NOPEC bill. Doing so would undermine the dollar’s status as the world’s main reserve currency, reduce Washington’s clout in global trade, and weaken its ability to enforce sanctions on nation-states. The kingdom could also decide to buy at least some weapons from countries other than the United States, hitting a lucrative business for U.S. defense contractors. The kingdom and other oil producers could limit U.S. investments in their countries or simply raise their prices for oil sold into the United States – undermining the basic aim of the bill. MUST READ: OPEC+ Countries Source: Indian Express Strengthening the CSR framework Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Governance Mains – GS 2(Governance) and GS4 (Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude) Context: Ever since the establishment of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) regime in India under Section 135 of the Companies Act 2013, CSR spending in India has risen from ₹10,065 crore in 2014-15 to ₹24,865 crore in 2020-21. But there is no data to verify whether this increase is commensurate with the increase in profits of Indian and foreign (having a registered arm in India) companies. In this regard. Let us know CSR in detail. What is Corporate Social Responsibility? CSR is a concept that suggests that it is the responsibility of the corporations operating within society to contribute towards economic, social and environmental development that creates a positive impact on society at large. CSR in India is based on the Gandhian concept of Trusteeship. Trusteeship Philosophy is a socio-economic philosophy propounded by Mahatma Gandhi. It provides a means by which the wealthy people would be the trustees of trusts that looked after the welfare of the people in general. Evolution of CSR in India: Companies Act, 2013 is a landmark legislation that made India the first country to mandate and quantify CSR expenditure. The inclusion of CSR is an attempt by the government to engage the businesses with inclusive growth, welfare and national development. CSR also promotes responsible and sustainable business philosophy at a broad level and encourage companies to come up with innovative ideas and robust management systems. Section 135(1) of the Act prescribes thresholds to identify companies which are required to constitute a CSR Committee – those, in the immediately preceding financial year of which: Net worth is Rs 500 Crore or more or Turnover is Rs 1000 Crore or more or Net profit amounts to Rs 5 Crore or more As per the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2019,CSR is applicable to companies before completion of 3 financial years. Companies are required to spend, in every financial year, at least 2% of their average net profits generated during the 3 immediately preceding financial years. For companies that have not completed 3 financial years, average net profits generated in the preceding financial years shall be factored in. The CSR activities in India should not be undertaken in the normal course of business and must be with respect to any of the 17 activities of CSR mentioned in Schedule VII of the act. Evaluation of the working of CSR law in India: If a company spends an amount in excess of the minimum 2%, as stipulated, the excess amount is liable to be set off against spending in the succeeding three financial years. The latter proviso in the Act weakens the former provision since the requirement of 2% is only a minimum requirement. Ideally, companies should be encouraged to spend more than this. Besides, many private companies have registered their own foundations/trusts to which they transfer the statutory CSR budgets for utilisation. It is unclear if this is allowed under the Companies Act/CSR rules. Geographical bias of CSR: Section 135(5) of the Act says that the company should give preference to local areas/areas around it where it operates. However, this creates regional disparity. For example, a report by Ashoka University’s Centre for Social Impact and Philanthropy says that more than half of India’s CSR companies are concentrated in 4 states Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Gujarat while populous Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh receive little. An analysis of CSR spending (2014-18) reveals that while most CSR spending is in education, health and sanitation, only 9% was spent on the environment even as extractive industries such as mining function in an environmentally detrimental manner in several States. Monitoring of CSR: Under the existing regulation, monitoring is by a board-led, disclosure-based regime, with companies reporting their CSR spends annually to the Corporate Affairs Ministry (MCA) through filing of an annual report. It is not known if there is a review of these reports and companies taken to task. The Standing Committee on Finance had also observed that the information regarding CSR spending by companies is insufficient and difficult to access. Recommendations by the high-level committee on CSR (2018): These should be incorporated in the current CSR framework to improve the existing monitoring and evaluation regime, including measures on: Strengthening the reporting mechanisms with enhanced disclosures concerning selection of projects, locations, implementing agencies etc. Bringing CSR within the purview of statutory financial audit with details of CSR expenditure included in the financial statement of a company Mandatory independent third-party impact assessment audits. CSR non-spend, underspend, and overspend should be qualified by the auditor in the audit report as a qualification to accounts, and not just as a note to accounts. Way forward: There is a need to curate a national-level platform centralised by the MCA where all States could list their potential CSR-admissible projects so that companies can assess where their CSR funds would be most impactful across India with preferential treatment to areas where they operate. Invest India’s ‘Corporate Social Responsibility Projects Repository’ on the India Investment Grid (IIG) can serve as a guide for such efforts. This model would be very useful for supporting deserving projects in the aspirational districts and projects identified by MPs under the Government’s Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana. Companies need to prioritise environment restoration in the area where they operate, earmarking at least 25% for environment regeneration. All CSR projects should be selected and implemented with the active involvement of communities, district administration and public representatives. The MCA and the line departments need to exercise greater direct monitoring and supervision over CSR spend by companies through the line ministries (for public sector undertakings) and other industry associations (for non-public units) instead of merely hosting all information on the Ministry’s website. The revamped CSR framework in India incorporating above recommendations would usher in a true trusteeship model. Source:  The Hindu Moonlighting Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Economy Mains – GS 3 (Economy) Context: Moonlighting has been a controversial topic in recent months after a few companies sacked their employees citing it as a reason. What is Moonlighting? Moonlighting — or employees working for remuneration with entities other than their employers. Moonlighting is neither new nor unusual. The practice has been around for a while with scores of professionals such as doctors, teachers, and consultants, routinely doing so for years. Reasons for surge in Moonlighting in recent years: Upcoming work structure: In the last few years, the prevalence of remote working, and hybrid work structures made it more mainstream in certain industries. Pandemic changing the work dynamic: During the pandemic, those with desk jobs had more time on their hands and thus it was easier to take on a few projects outside of work. A private study said that at least 60% of 400 employees surveyed said they themselves had or knew someone who had engaged in moonlighting. The superfluous employers: The dispensable attitude that many employers demonstrated during COVID-19 has led to an erosion of job loyalty among employees. Now more than ever, people are aware that organisations can give up on them, and that they must safeguard their own interests. Skill enhancement: For a lot of professionals, moonlighting has also become a way to upskill, learn new things, and ensure they don’t become redundant in their careers. Indian companies reacting to moonlighting: Wipro sacked 300 employees following the discovery that they were working for rival firms on the side, leading to a conflict of interest. Infosys has warned staff against moonlighting, saying it could lead to termination. On the contrary, a few other companies like for example Swiggy announced a ‘moonlighting policy’ that allows employees “to pursue their passion for economic interests alongside their full-time employment.” Associated Issues: Moonlighting in turn has raised larger questions about issues related to job loyalty, employee satisfaction, employer-employee dynamics, and the future of work in a post-pandemic world. Legalities concerning Moonlighting Statute: Moonlighting is not defined in any of the statutes in India. However, there are enactments that deal with double employment. Factories Act on double employment: Factories Act deals with restriction on double employment stating that “No adult worker shall be required or allowed to work in any factory on any day on which he has already been working in any other factory, save in such circumstances as may be prescribed”. However, this enactment is applicable only to employees working in factories. Court judgments: Moonlighting is subject to the law of the land. The sphere of employment cannot be extended by the employer beyond working hours and outside his place of employment, which is the principle laid down in the Supreme Court judgment. In other words, the employee can choose to arrange his affairs as he pleases beyond the working hours of the employer. Punitive action against moonlighting: Unless an employer is able to prove that an employee acted against the interest of the company, Courts may not uphold severe punishment of termination of employment. Way Forward: The court jurisdiction: The Courts of law in India dealing with employment are Writ Courts and Labour Courts. These Courts exercise jurisdiction based on equity or fairness. The Courts may lean in favour of the employee unless the contravention of the employee has led to serious prejudice and loss to the employer. For employers: Eventually, organisations need to understand that they don’t own all of their employees’ time, nor should they expect to. What they pay for are fixed work hours defined by targets, set out in contracts. Call for side gig: Delineating clearly between side gigs for gainful employment versus projects that require data confidentiality, an ethical moonlighting policy could be an effective way for both employees and employers to meet midway. Source: The Hindu Previous Year Question Q.1) In India, which one of the following compiles information on industrial disputes, closures, retrenchments and lay-offs in factories employing workers? (2022) Central Statistics Office Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade Labour Bureau National Technical Manpower Information System Liquid Water on Mars Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Science and Technology Mains – GS 3 (Science and Technology) Context: A team of researchers has found new evidence for the possible existence of liquid water beneath the south polar ice cap of Mars. Background: The study published in the journal Nature Astronomy is the first independent evidence of liquid water beneath Mars’ South Pole using data other than radar. The researchers, led by the University of Cambridge, used a spacecraft laser-altimeter. Measurements of the shape of the upper surface of the ice cap to identify subtle patterns in its height were carried out. It showed that patterns match computer model predictions in the same way a body of water beneath the ice cap would affect the surface. The results agree with earlier ice-penetrating radar measurements which predicted a potential area of liquid water beneath the ice. Significance of the study: The liquid water interpretation from the radar data alone has been subjected to debates as some studies suggest the radar signal is not due to liquid water. This study is the best indication that there is liquid water on Mars today. There is evidence which suggests the existence of subglacial lakes on Mars like the Earth. Does life exist on Mars? Liquid water is said to be found on Mars which is an essential ingredient for life but still there is no evidence of existence of life on Mars. In order to be liquid at such low cold temperatures of Mars the water beneath the South Pole might need to be really salty. This would make it difficult for any microbial life to inhabit it. However, the existence of water on Mars gives hope that there were more habitable environments in the past when the climate was less unforgiving. Exploring water on the Mars’s surface: Ice is present on the Mars- Like the Earth, Mars has thick water ice caps at both poles whose combined volume can be equated to the Greenland Ice Sheet. Earth’s ice sheets which are underlain by water-filled channels and even large subglacial lake The polar ice caps on Mars have been thought to be frozen solid all the way to their beds due to the cold Martian climate. Technological constraints- European Space Agency’s Mars Express satellite in 2018 revealed an area at the base of the ice that strongly reflected the radar signal which was interpreted as an area of liquid water beneath the ice cap. The Mars Express satellite has an ice-penetrating radar called MARSIS, which can see through Mars’ southern ice cap. Other studies suggested dry materials which exist on Mars, could produce similar patterns of reflectance if they exist beneath the ice cap. Geothermal heat source will aid existence of water- Mars has a very cold climate, thus liquid water beneath the ice cap would require an additional heat source, such as geothermal heat from within the planet. The combination of the new topographic evidence, modal results and the radar data make it look at least one area of subglacial liquid water exists on Mars today Mars must still be geothermally active in order to keep the water beneath the ice cap liquid. Shape of ice sheets is crucial- On Earth, subglacial lakes affect the shape of the surface topography of the overlying ice sheets. The water in subglacial lakes lowers friction between the ice sheet and its bed, affecting the velocity of ice flow under gravity. This in turn affects the shape of the ice sheet surface above the lake, often creating a depression in the ice surface followed by a raised area further down-flow. Research methodology Researchers used a range of techniques to examine data from NASA’s Mars Global Surveyor satellite of the surface topography of the part of Mars’ south polar ice cap where the radar signal was identified. Analysis revealed a 10-15-kilometre-long surface undulation comprising a depression and a corresponding raised area, which deviated from the surrounding ice surface by several meters. This is similar in scale to undulations over subglacial lakes here on Earth. The team then tested whether the observed undulation on the surface of the ice could be explained by liquid water at the bed. They ran computer model simulations of ice flow, adapted to specific conditions on Mars. They then inserted a patch of reduced bed friction in the simulated ice sheet bed where water would allow the ice to slide and speed up. The researchers also varied the amount of geothermal heat coming from inside the planet. Way Forward: The extensive experiments generated undulations on the simulated ice surface that were similar in size and shape to the real ice cap surface. The similarity was observed between the model-produced topographic undulation and the actual spacecraft observations. This with the earlier ice-penetrating radar evidence suggests that there is an accumulation of liquid water beneath Mars’ south polar ice cap This magmatic activity occurred relatively recently in the subsurface of Mars to enable the enhanced geothermal heating needed to keep the water in a liquid state. About the Red Planet: Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun in the solar system. It is half the size of Earth and is a cold desert world. Mars has two small moons, Phobos and Deimos, that may be captured asteroids. It’s red because of the presence of rusty iron in the ground surface thus called the red planet. It is also a dynamic planet with seasons, polar ice caps, canyons, extinct volcanoes, and evidence that it was even more active in the past. It has a very thin atmosphere made of carbon dioxide, nitrogen, and argon. There are signs of ancient floods on Mars, but now water mostly exists in icy dirt and thin clouds. India’s Mars Orbiter Mission /Mangalyaan: It was launched by the ISRO from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in November 2013. It was launched on board a PSLV C-25 rocket It aims of studying Martian surface and mineral composition It will scan Mars’ atmosphere for methane which is an indicator of life on Mars. Some Important Mars missions: NASA(USA)—>Phoenix(2007), Curiosity(2011), Maven(2013), Perseverance(2021) European Space Agency(EU)—>Mars Express(2001) ISRO(India)—> Mangalyaan(2014) UAE’s Space Agency—>Amal (Hope Mission)(2021) China’s Space Agency—>Tianwen 1(2021) Source: The Hindu Previous Year Question Q.1) If a major solar storm (solar flare) reaches the Earth, which of the following are the possible effects on the Earth?  (2022) GPS and navigation systems could fail. Tsunamis could occur at equatorial regions. Power grids could be damaged. Intense auroras could occur over much of the Earth. Forest fires could take place over much of the planet. Orbits of the satellites could be disturbed. Shortwave radio communication of the aircraft flying over polar regions could be interrupted. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1, 2, 4 and 5 only 2, 3, 5, 6 and 7 only 1, 3, 4, 6 and 7 only 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 and 7 Abortion rights vs Ethics Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Governance Mains – GS 2 (Governance) and GS 4(Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude) Context: Recently, in a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India allowed abortions up to 24 weeks for all women, including unmarried women. Abortion Rights and the Ethical Dilemma: Issues with Respect to Women’s Right: Woman’s Right over her Body: A woman’s right over her body has been advocated as a premise for freedom. One cannot force a woman to bear a child in her womb and give birth to a child if she does not want to do so for various reasons. Women’s Health: Unwanted pregnancies affect both physical and mental health. Gender Equality: The right to abortion is vital for gender equality. The right to abortion should be part of a portfolio of pregnancy rights that enables women to make a truly free choice whether to end a pregnancy. Issues with respect to Foetus: Right to Life (Article 21): Abortion amounts to the murder of a living being. Motherly Care: It is a unique unspoken bond shared between two lives, which cannot be questioned or regulated by laws. Issues with respect to Society in General: Responsibility of State: The State has the responsibility of valuing each life. Inclusion of all: Abortion should not become a mechanism of social control for avoiding the appearance of differences or disabilities. Giving better life for Existing Children: Many times, parents want abortion to be able to give a good life to existing children instead of dividing their meagre resources into more children. What are the Arguments against Abortion? Abortion is not viewed by some as liberating, but rather as a way for society not to cater to women’s needs. Women don’t need free abortion access, but their needs for financial and social survival as mothers are what they need for equality: inexpensive, readily available childcare a workplace or school that acknowledges the needs of mothers, g., providing flexible scheduling and maternity leave, state support that helps to reintegrate a woman into the workforce India’s Stance on Abortions: The Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Act, 2021 ensures that expectant mothers exercise self-determination in welcoming new life to their homes. Abortions may be performed up to 24 gestational weeks on grounds of risk to the mother’s life, mental anguish, rape, incest, contraception failure or the diagnosis of foetal abnormalities. It is a liberal achievement over countries where abortions are disallowed since conception, even in the most traumatising of circumstances of sexual abuse or incest. Way Forward: Ethical approaches to abortion frequently invoke four principles. Respect for patients’ autonomy Nonmaleficence (do no harm) Beneficence (beneficial care) and Justice The abortion dilemma has overlapping issues from different realms like legal, medical, ethical, philosophical, religious and human rights and it should be analysed from different perspectives. There cannot be any hard and fast rule over abortion and it must be discussed and deliberated to evolve a common consensus. Source:  Indian Express Previous Year Question Q.1) Which Article of the Constitution of India safeguards one’s right to marry the person of one’s choice?  (2019) Article 19 Article 21 Article 25 Article 29 Daily Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) Consider the following statements regarding Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): CSR in India is based on the Gandhian concept of Trusteeship. India is the first country to mandate and quantify CSR expenditure. Indian Companies are now required to spend, in every financial year, at least 2% of their average net profits generated during the 3 immediately preceding financial years. Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct ? 1 only 1 and 2 only 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements regarding Quality Council of India (QCI): QCI is a non-profit organization registered under the Societies Registration Act of 1860. Ministry of Finance is designated as the nodal ministry to look after QCI. QCI has been established to create a mechanism for independent third party assessment of products, services and processes. Which of the above statements are correct? 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 1 2 and 3 Q.3) The term ‘moonlighting’ often mentioned in news is related to Having a second or side job Light emitting from the moon during night time Exposing a scandal Preserving nocturnal wildlife Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’8th October 2022 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs. ANSWERS FOR 7th October – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – c Q.2) – d Q.3) – a table, td, th { border: 1px solid;} table {width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; }

Oct 8, 2022 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2022 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 8th October 2022

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) – CLICK HERE The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions.To take the Test Click Here

Oct 7, 2022 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 7th October 2022

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Sugar Production in India Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Agriculture Context: India emerges as the world’s largest producer and consumer of sugar and world’s 2nd largest exporter of sugar. In Sugar Season (Oct-Sep) 2021-22, a record of more than 5000 Lakh Metric Tons (LMT) sugarcane was produced in the country With this, India has emerged as the world’s largest producer and consumer of sugar as well as the world’s 2nd largest exporter of sugar. Maharashtra emerged as the highest sugar exporter and producer in India in 2021-22 Sugar Season (SS) exporting almost 60 per cent of total exports in India. Supportive international prices and Indian Government Policy led to this feat of Indian Sugar Industry. The exports earned foreign currency of about Rs. 40,000 crores for the country. Factors that led to largest Producer of Sugar: Synchronous and collaborative efforts of Central and State Governments, farmers, sugar mills, ethanol distilleries with very supportive overall ecosystem for business in the country led to this feat. During 2021-22, sugar mills procured sugarcane worth more than 1.18 lakh with no financial assistance (subsidy) from Government of India. 95% of cane dues have already been cleared. In 2020-21, more than 99.9% cane dues are cleared. Scheme for Extending Financial Assistance to Sugar Undertakings (SEFASU) and National Policy on Biofuels are two of the government initiatives to support sugarcane production and the sugar industry. Ethanol Production: Government has been encouraging sugar mills to divert sugar to ethanol. Growth of ethanol as biofuel sector in last 5 years has amply supported the sugar sector as use of sugar to ethanol has led to better financial positions of sugar mills due to: faster payments, reduced working capital requirements and less blockage of funds due to less surplus sugar with mills. Ethanol production capacity of molasses/sugar-based distilleries has increased to 605 crore liters per annum and the progress is still continuing to meet targets of 20% blending by 2025 under Ethanol Blending with Petrol (EBP) Programme. In new season, the diversion of sugar to ethanol is expected to increase from 35 LMT to 50 LMT which would generate revenue for sugar mills amounting to about ₹ 25,000 crores. Sugarcane Cultivated: Temperature: Between 21-27°C with hot and humid climate. Rainfall: Around 75-100 cm. Soil Type: Deep rich loamy soil. Top Sugarcane Producing States: Maharashtra>Uttar Pradesh > Karnataka It can be grown on all varieties of soils ranging from sandy loam to clay loam given these soils should be well drained. It needs manual labour from sowing to harvesting. It is the main source of sugar, Gur (jaggery), khandsari and molasses. MUST READ: Ethanol Blending                           Source: The Hindu                                     Previous Year Question Q.1) With reference to the current trends in the cultivation of sugarcane in India, consider the following statements: (2020) A substantial saving in seed material is made when ‘bud chip settlings’ are raised in a nurse, and transplanted in the main field. When direct planting of setts is done, the germination percentage is better with single budded setts as compared to setts with many buds. If bad weather conditions prevail when sets are directly planted, single-budded setts have better survival as compared to large setts Sugarcane can be cultivated using settlings prepared from tissue culture. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 3 only 1 and 4 only 2, 3 and 4 only Q.2) Among the following, which one is the least water-efficient crop? (2022) Sugarcane Sunflower Pearl millet Red gram Q.3) According to India’s National Policy on Biofuels, which of the following can be used as raw materials for the production of biofuels?   (2021) Cassava Damaged wheat grains Groundnut seeds Horse gram Rotten potatoes Sugar beet Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1, 2, 5 and 6 only 1, 3, 4 and 6 only 2, 3, 4 and 5 only 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 The criterion for SC status Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Governance Context: The Supreme Court of India has sought the most recent position of the Union government on a batch of petitions challenging the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order of 1950, which allows only members of Hindu, Sikh, and Buddhist religions to be recognised as SCs. What the Constitution Order of 1950 says? When enacted, the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order of 1950, initially provided for recognizing only Hindus as SCs, to address the social disability arising out of the practice of untouchability. The Order was amended in 1956 to include Dalits who had converted to Sikhism and once more in 1990 to include Dalits who had converted to Buddhism. Both amendments were aided by the reports of the Kaka Kalelkar Commission in 1955 and the High-Powered Panel (HPP) on Minorities, Scheduled Castes, and Scheduled Tribes in 1983 respectively. The Union government in 2019 rejected the possibility of including Dalit Christians as members of SCs, rooting the exclusion on an Imperial Order of 1936 of the then colonial government It had first classified a list of the Depressed Classes and specifically excluded “Indian Christians” from it. Why are Dalit Christians excluded in from the list? Ever since the amendment to include Sikhs as SCs in 1956, the Office of the Registrar General of India (RGI) has been reluctant in expanding the ambit of the Order beyond members of Hinduism or Sikhism. The RGI had cautioned the government that SC status is meant for communities suffering from social disabilities arising out of the practice of untouchability, which it noted was prevalent in Hindu and Sikh communities. It also noted that such a move would significantly swell the population of SCs across the country. However, the amendment to include Buddhist converts as SCs was passed in 1990, which at the time did not require the approval of the RGI — a mandate introduced in the rules for inclusion framed in 1999. RGI said that like Dalit Buddhists, Dalits who converted to Islam or Christianity belonged to different sets of caste groups and not just one, as a result of which they cannot be categorized as a “single ethnic group”, which is required by Clause (2) of Article 341 for inclusion. The RGI opined that since the practice of “untouchability” was a feature of Hindu religion and its branches, allowing the inclusion of Dalit Muslims and Dalit Christians as SCs could result in being “misunderstood internationally” as India trying to “impose its caste system” upon Christians and Muslims. It also stated that Christians and Muslims of Dalit origin had lost their caste identity by way of their conversion and that in their new religious community, the practice of untouchability is not prevalent. Various committees/Reports that look upon the issue: The petitions arguing for inclusion have cited several independent Commission reports that have documented the existence of caste and caste inequalities among Indian Christians and Indian Muslims. This was substantiated in: the First Backward Classes Commission’s report in 1953, the Report of the Committee on Untouchability Economic and Educational Development of the Scheduled Castes in 1969, the HPP report on SCs, STs, and Minorities in 1983, the Mandal Commission Report, the report of the Prime Minister’s High-Level Committee formed in 2006, a 2008 study conducted by the National Commission for Minorities, the Ranganath Misra Commission Report and several other studies. In addition to this, the petitions have argued against the proposition that caste identity is lost upon conversion, noting that even in Sikhism and Buddhism, casteism is not present and yet they have been included as SCs. The above-mentioned reports argue that caste-based discrimination continues even after conversion, hence entitling these communities to SC status. However, the Union government refuses to accept the reports of the Commissions on the basis that these reports do not have enough empirical evidence to support their claims. Source: The Hindu                           National Commission for Women Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Polity In news: The National Commission for Women (NCW) recently has summoned Congress leader over his “sycophancy” remark against the President of India. Droupadi Murmu is India’s first tribal woman President of India. About NCW: It was set up as statutory body in 1992 under the National Commission for Women Act, 1990 It aims to review the Constitutional and Legal safeguards for women; recommend remedial legislative measures; facilitate redressal of grievances and advise the Government on all policy matters affecting women. The Commission shall consist of :- A Chairperson, nominated by the Central Government. Five Members with expertise in law and issues related to women, nominated by the Central Government. At least one Member each shall be from amongst persons belonging to the Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes respectively Member Secretary must be a central gazetted officer having management and sociological expertise and nominated by the Central Government. The National Commission for Women submits all its reports to the Central Government, which is laid before the Parliament during sessions. During the investigation of any matter before it, National Commission for Women has all the powers of a civil court. Functions: Inquiry, Investigation and Examination of matters related to safeguards of women Recommendation: to the Union as well State regarding improving the conditions of the women. Review different laws related to women and suggest amendments to them. Violation Cases: Takes up violation cases pertaining to the provisions of the Constitution and other laws related to women. Suo-Moto Notice on matters pertaining to deprivation of women’s rights, non-implementation of laws, non-compliance policy decisions related to women etc. Research: Undertake promotional and educational research to find ways to represent women in all spheres of life and improve their efficiency. Planning: Participate in the process of planning related to the socio-economic development of women. Progress Evaluation: Evaluate the progress related to the development of women in the State and the Union. Inspection: Inspect the jail, remand homes etc., where women are kept as prisoners. Funding: Litigations relating to funds affecting large women body. Achievements: The Commission prepared Gender Profiles to assess the status of women and their empowerment. It acted suo-moto in several cases to provide speedy justice. It took up the issue of child marriage, sponsored legal awareness programmes, Parivarik Mahila Lok Adalats and reviewed laws such as Dowry Prohibition Act, 1961, PNDT Act 1994, Indian Penal Code 1860 to make them more stringent and effective. It organized workshops/consultations, constituted expert committees on economic empowerment of women, conducted workshops/seminars for gender awareness and took up publicity campaign against female foeticide, violence against women etc. in order to generate awareness in the society against these social evils. The commission regularly brings out a monthly newsletter called “Rashtra Mahila” Source: The Hindu Nobel Prize Chemistry 2022 Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Current Affairs In News: This year’s Nobel Prize in Chemistry has gone to Carolyn Bertozzi and Barry Sharpless of the United States and Morten Meldal of Denmark who have made a strong case for adopting an alternative approach to producing new complex molecules, which minimises waste and increases overall efficiency. About: Sharpless is the originator of the concept of ‘Click Chemistry’. He found the first chemical reaction that satisfied the criteria for ‘Click’ reactions using a nitrogen-containing cyclic compound and discovered that use of copper as a catalyst eliminated the by-products. Carolyn Bertozzi in 2004 developed a few ‘click’ reactions that work inside living organisms. The name “Click”, has been taken from the click sound that airline seat belts make when they are fastened. While trying to produce any particular compound or a complex molecule, one must look for starting molecules that easily react with each other or fit into each other, or ‘click’ with each other. The reacting molecules should be in a made-for-each-other kind of situation for this particular reaction. This makes the resultant chemical reaction more efficient. Significance: Mimicking nature is expected to bring in effectiveness and sustainability in man-made processes and products as well. Vast potential in the pharmaceutical industry – The industry uses a lot of naturally occurring but industrially synthesised molecules. Every kilogram of a drug produced results in the generation of nearly 25-100 kg of chemical waste, making it inefficient. Bertozzi’s methods have shown the promise of treating advanced cancer. Cancer drugs based on her approach are now undergoing clinical trials. Source: The Hindu Previous Year Question Q.1) Bollgard I and Bollgard II technologies are mentioned in the context of: (2021) clonal propagation of crop plants. developing genetically modified crop plants. production of plant growth substances. production of biofertilizers. ‘herSTART’ platform Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Governance In News: The President of India recently launched ‘herSTART’, an initiative of the Gujarat University Startup and Entrepreneurship Council (GUSEC) aimed at supporting women-led startups. The President also laid the foundation stone for various projects related to education and tribal development in Gujarat. About: The platform will include a digital platform to provide resources and training modules free of cost to aspiring women entrepreneurs, a digital community for them, and a digital publication to spread their success stories. The Platform encompasses the herSTART Incubator, a dedicated full-fledged Startup incubator for women entrepreneurs and innovators, and the herSTART Accelerator, a round-the-year accelerator programme for high-impact women-led startups. Gujarat is the first state in the country to form the Garima Cell with the aim of giving new energy and direction to the higher education system of the state. Significance: The ‘herSTART’ platform will boost innovation and start-up efforts of women entrepreneurs and also help them connect with various government and private enterprises. Employment generation: through 450 Startup projects operational in Gujarat University. Of these, 125 startups specially inspired by entrepreneurial women are giving a new direction to the entrepreneurship and innovative ideas in women. India has moved from 81st position to 40th position in the Global Innovation Index (GII) of 2022 as a result of the Startup program. Reduction in the drop-out rate among the students of the tribal community due to Vanabandhu Kalyan Yojana, Eklavya Model Residential School and Kanya Nivasi Shala. Real-time monitoring of the education system of more than 55,000 schools in the state by the Vidya Review Centre. Upgrading the infrastructure of about 20,000 schools of the state through Mission School of Excellence. Source:  Hindustan Times                             Previous Year Question Q.1) With reference to ‘Stand Up India Scheme’, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2016): Its purpose is to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and women entrepreneurs. It provides for refinance through SIDBI. Select the correct answer using the code given below. 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither1 nor 2 Online Content Regulation laws Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Science and Technology In News: The European Union (EU) has given final approval to online safety-focused legislation, which is an overhaul of the region’s social media and e-commerce rules, called the Digital Services Act (DSA). Features of DSA: The law tightly regulates the way intermediaries, especially large platforms such as Google, Meta, Twitter, and YouTube, function in terms of moderating user content. Faster removals and provisions to challenge: As part of the overhaul, social media companies will have to add “new procedures for faster removal” of content deemed illegal or harmful. Social media companies will have to explain to users how their content takedown policy works. The DSA also allows for users to challenge takedown decisions taken by platforms and seek out-of-court settlements. VLOPs must allow regulators to access their data to assess compliance and let researchers access their data to identify systemic risks of illegal or harmful content. Bigger platforms have greater responsibility: One of the most crucial features of the legislation is that it avoids a one-size fits all approach and places increased accountability on the Big Tech companies. The ‘Very Large Online Platforms’ (VLOPs) and ‘Very Large Online Search Engines’ (VLOSEs), that is platforms, having more than 45 million users in the EU, will have more stringent requirements. Direct supervision by European Commission: a key way to ensure that companies do not sidestep the legislation at the member-state level. Clearer identifiers for ads and who’s paying for them: Online platforms must ensure that users can easily identify advertisements and understand who presents or pays for the advertisement. They must not display personalised advertising directed towards minors or based on sensitive personal data. Significance: It will give better protection to users and to fundamental rights online, establish a powerful transparency and accountability framework for online platforms and provide a single, uniform framework across the EU. More transparency on how algorithms work: VLOPs and VLOSEs will face transparency measures and scrutiny of how their algorithms work Systemic risk analysis by social media companies will drive accountability about the society impacts of their products. Comparison with Indian Laws: In 2021, India had notified extensive changes to its social media regulations in the form of the Information Technology Rules, 2021 (IT Rules) IT Rules placed significant due diligence requirements on large social media platforms such as Meta and Twitter. These included appointing key personnel to handle law enforcement requests and user grievances, enabling identification of the first originator of the information on its platform under certain conditions, and deploying technology-based measures on a best-effort basis to identify certain types of content. Ensuring greater transparency such as if a user has shared child sexual abuse material on a platform. However, WhatsApp has filed a case and has alleged that the requirement to identify the first originator of information will dilute the encryption security on its platform and could compromise personal messages of millions of Indians. Proposal for further amendments to the IT Rules include the creation of government-backed grievance appellate committees which would have the authority to review and revoke content moderation decisions taken by platforms. India is also working on a complete overhaul of its technology policies and is expected to soon come out with a replacement of its IT Act, 2000, which is expected to look at ensuring net neutrality and algorithmic accountability of social media platforms, among other things. Source: Indian Express                    Chola Dynasty Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – History Mains – GS 1 (History and Art and Culture) Context: A recently released film Ponniyin Selvan has focused on a fictional account of the 10th-century Chola dynasty. Cholas are known for their progressiveness, the architectural marvels and temples, the social setup of the time, and how cities were named after women. The era of the Cholas: Region of power: The Chola kingdom stretched across present-day Tamil Nadu, Kerala, and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka. It is one of the longest-ruling dynasties in world history. Geographical extent: The heartland of the Cholas was the fertile valley of the Kaveri River. They unified peninsular India, south of the Tungabhadra, and held it as one state for three centuries. The Chola territories stretched from the Maldives in the south to the banks of the Godavari River in Andhra Pradesh as the northern limit. Capital and important centres: Their early capital was at Thanjavur and later on at Gangaikonda Cholapuram. Kanchipuram and Madurai were considered to be regional capitals in which occasional courts were held. Foundation of the dynasty: The dynasty was founded by king Vijaylaya, described as a “feudatory” of the Pallavas. Despite being a relatively minor player in the region among giants, Vijaylaya laid the foundation for a dynasty that would rule a major part of southern India. Under Rajaraja I and his successors Rajendra I, Rajadhiraja I, Rajendra II, Virarajendra, and Kulothunga Chola I, the dynasty became a military, economic and cultural powerhouse. Contemporaries of Cholas: As one of the Three Crowned Kings of Tamilakam, along with the Chera and Pandya, the dynasty continued to govern over varying territories until the 13th century CE. During the period of the Cholas (around the 9th to 12th century AD), other powerful dynasties of the region would also come and go, such as The Rashtrakutas of the Deccan who defeated the Cholas, and The Chalukyas of the Andhra Pradesh region whom the Cholas frequently battled. Society under the Cholas: Agriculture & canals: There was tremendous agrarian expansion during the rule of the imperial Chola Dynasty all over Tamil Nadu and particularly in the Kaveri Basin. Most of the canals of the Kaveri River belong to this period. Trade: While the extent of this domination is disputed, the Cholas had strong ties with merchant groups and this allowed them to undertake impressive naval expeditions. A strong army and navy: One of the biggest achievements of the Chola dynasty was its naval power, allowing them to go as far as Malaysia and the Sumatra islands of Indonesia in their conquests. The domination was such that the Bay of Bengal was converted into a “Chola Lake” for some time. The dynasty became a military, economic and cultural powerhouse in South Asia and South-East Asia. Maintaining a strong army and naval resources made sense for the Cholas, because, the period from 9th to 10th century was a violent time, where kingdoms would go to war with each other frequently. Art & Culture: Example of the many frescos found in the pillared coloister that surrounds the courtyard of the Big Temple in Thanjavur, India. Temple architecture: The Cholas built their temples in the traditional way of the Pallava dynasty, who were themselves influenced by the Amaravati school of architecture. The maturity and grandeur to which the Chola architecture had evolved found expression in the two magnificent temples of Thanjavur and Gangaikonda Cholapuram. Brihadeeswara temple: The grand Brihadeeswara temple of Thanjavur, built by the Cholas, was the largest building in India in that period. This temple carries on its walls the engraved evidence of the elaborate administrative and financial procedures concerning the day-to-day administration of the temple. Airavateswara temple: The Airavateswara temple at Darasuram near Thanjavur built during the reign of Rajaraja II is a magnificent structure typical of the stage of architectural development reached in the 12th century CE. Sculptures: The Chola period is also remarkable for its sculptures and bronzes. Artworks and sculptures were commissioned by Chola kings and queens, including the famous bronze Nataraja idols. Chola period bronzes were created using the lost wax technique. Earlier, the Rashtrakutas had built the Kailasanatha temple in Maharashtra’s Aurangabad — the largest monolith structure (carved from a single rock) of its time. Blots in the Chola history: The Chola rulers sacked and plundered Chalukyan cities including Kalyani and massacred the people, including Brahmans and children. They destroyed Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of the rulers of Sri Lanka. Source: Indian Express              Previous Year Questions Q.1) Consider the following pairs: King                                      Dynasty Nannuka                  Chandela Jayashakti                Paramara Nagabhata II           Gurjara-Pratihara Bhoja                         Rashtrakuta How many pairs given above are correctly matched? (2022) Only one pair Only two pairs Only three pairs All four pairs Q.2) Regarding the taxation system of Krishna Deva, the ruler of Vijayanagar, consider the following statements : The tax rate on land was fixed depending on the quality of the land. Private owners of workshops paid an industry tax. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (2016) 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 EC To Change Poll Code, Wants Parties to Give Financial Viability of Election Promises Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Governance and Polity Mains – (Polity and Governance) Context: The Election Commission (EC) has recently proposed to amend the model code amid a debate on the freebies. The amendment will require the political parties to provide authentic information to voters on the financial viability of their poll promises. What are the changes that the EC has proposed to the model code? The poll panel has proposed to amend the Model Code of Conduct to add a proforma to Part VIII (Guidelines on election manifesto) of the MCC. It will require political parties to inform voters about the financial feasibility of promises made in their manifestos, the number of beneficiaries expected to be targeted by the schemes promised, and also whether they are sustainable within the financial space of the state or the Union government The proposed proforma will seek details of revenue generation ways (through additional tax, if any), rationalizing expenditure (cutting some schemes, if so required), impact on committed liabilities and/or raising of further debt and its impact on Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act (FRBM) limits. Although the implementation of election promises can have several ramifications, the Commission has proposed to confine the disclosures to only the financial implications of the promises in terms of the financial resources required. What is the rationale behind the move? Ambiguous and vague declarations by political parties: While the existing guidelines under MCC require the political parties and candidates to explain the rationale for promises made therein as well as the possible ways and means to finance such promises, it has been observed that the declarations are quite routine, ambiguous and do not provide adequate information to voters to exercise informed choice in an election. Hampering of financial sustainability: The EC is of the view that the empty poll promises have far-reaching ramifications and undesirable impacts on financial sustainability which cannot be overlooked. Competitive electoral promises: The consequences of inadequate disclosures by political parties get attenuated by the fact that elections are held frequently, providing opportunities for political parties to indulge in competitive electoral promises, particularly in multi-phase elections, without taking into consideration the financial implications more particularly on committed expenditure. Undermining of free and fair elections: Some of the promises and offers have an undesirable impact on the conduct of free and fair elections and on maintaining a level playing field. Standardized disclosure proforma: The electoral reform will not only bring about a standardized disclosure proforma for the guidance of political parties and candidates but will also ensure authentic information to the voters to assess the financial viability of election promises. Informed poll choices: Most political parties do not submit to the EC their poll declarations in time and with adequate disclosures on the financial implications of the promises made, the Indian electorate will be able to exercise informed poll choices. What is the model code of conduct (MCC)? Election Commission of India’s Model Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines issued by the Election Commission of India for the conduct of political parties and candidates during elections mainly with respect to speeches, polling day, polling booths, portfolios, election manifestos, processions, and general conduct. This set of norms has evolved with the consensus of political parties who have consented to abide by the principles embodied in the said code in its letter and spirit. The MCC comes into force immediately on the announcement of the election schedule by the commission for the need to ensure free and fair elections. Objectives of MCC: Its main purpose is to ensure that ruling parties, at the Centre and in the States, do not misuse their position of advantage to gain an unfair edge. The document guides the EC in ensuring a level playing field for all political parties and candidates during elections. It is designed to avert practices that are deemed corrupt under the model code of conduct. For example, politicians should not make hate speeches, put one community against another, invoke religion or make promises about new projects that may sway a voter. It has no legal backing and is only a voluntary understanding between the EC and the political parties that comes into play during the election process. MUST READ: Election Commission of India          Source: The Hindu                  Previous Year Questions Q.1) Consider the following statements: In India, there is no law restricting the candidates from contesting in one Lok Sabha election from three constituencies. In 1991 Lok Sabha Election, Shri Devi Lal contested from three Lok Sabha constituencies. As per the existing rules, if a candidate contests in one Lok Sabha election from many constituencies, his/her party should bear the cost of bye-elections to the constituencies vacated by him/her in the event of him/her winning in all the constituencies. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? (2021) 1 only 2 only 1 and 3 2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements : The Election Commission of India is a five-member body. The Union Ministry of Home Affairs decides the election schedule for the conduct of both general elections and bye-elections. Election Commission resolves the disputes relating to splits/mergers of recognised political parties. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?  (2017) 1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 3 only Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) Countries Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – International Groupings Mains – GS 2 (International Relations) Context: Recently, the grouping of the world’s largest oil-producing countries, the Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) and its allies, together known as OPEC+, decided to cut oil production by 2 million barrels per day (bpd). This is the largest cut since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. Brent crude, the international benchmark, was up 28 cents or 0.3%, at $92.08 a barrel after the cut was announced. Organisation of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC): Established in 1960 by founding members Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Venezuela, OPEC has since expanded and has 13 member states. With the addition of another 11 allied major oil-producing countries that include Russia, the grouping is known as OPEC+. e., OPEC+ is a group of 24 oil-producing nations. OPEC+ format was born in 2017 with a deal to coordinate oil production among the countries in a bid to stabilize prices. The OPEC bloc is nominally led by Saudi Arabia, the group’s largest oil producer, while Russia is the biggest player among the non-OPEC countries. Objective of OPEC Countries: To coordinate and unify the petroleum policies of its Member Countries; To ensure the stabilization of oil markets; To secure an efficient, economic, and regular supply of petroleum to consumers, a steady income to producers To ensure a fair return on capital for those investing in the petroleum industry. Significance of OPEC Bloc: OPEC bloc accounts for roughly 40 per cent of the world’s crude oil and 80 per cent of the globe’s oil reserves, according to estimates from 2018. They usually meet every month to determine how much oil the member states will produce. However, many allege that OPEC behaves like a cartel, determining the supply of oil and influencing its price in the world market. Reason for slashing production of oil: Oil prices skyrocketed after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February, and have since begun to soften over the past few months. In September 2022, it dropped to $90 due to fears of a recession in Europe and reduced demands from China because of its lockdown measures. OPEC+ members are concerned that a faltering global economy would reduce the demand for oil, and the cuts are seen as a way to protect profits. Experts have also raised the possibility that Russia might be influencing OPEC, to make it more expensive for the West. Prices rise will make it more challenging for Europe to proceed with its sanctions on Russian oil in December. Impact of slashing oil production: Impact on EU’s plan to put a price cap on Russian oil Recently, European Union had announced its plan to implement a price cap on oil exports from Russia. Under the plan, countries will only be permitted to purchase Russian oil and petroleum products transported via sea that are sold at or below the price cap. However, the recent decision to reduce the supply is likely to keep the global oil prices high, allowing Russia to continue aiming for significant revenue from its crude export. Who is against this decision? Within the group, there are countries who opposed to such significant cuts in oil production As a meeting of OPEC+ technocrats was cancelled on Tuesday because of disagreements that reportedly only a gathering of oil ministers could resolve United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Kuwait, in particular, are said to be concerned that extended cuts would interfere with their plans to increase oil output capacity Weaponization of energy: The West has accused Russia of weaponizing energy, creating a crisis in Europe that could trigger gas and power rationing this winter. Moscow accuses the West of weaponizing the dollar and financial systems, such as SWIFT, in retaliation for the invasion of Ukraine in February. OPEC+’ or ‘Vienna Group’: OPEC and non-OPEC oil producing nations (10 other countries including Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Brunei, Kazakhstan, Malaysia, Oman, Russia, South Sudan, and Sudan.) made an agreement in 2016 to jointly cut production for stabilization of prices. This grouping is informally known as ‘OPEC+’ or ‘Vienna Group’. Source: Indian Express                  Previous Year Question Q.1) In which one of the following groups are all the four countries members of G20? (2020) Argentina, Mexico, South Africa, and Turkey Australia, Canada, Malaysia, and New Zealand Brazil, Iran, Saudi Arabia, and Vietnam Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, and South Korea Poverty Open in new window Syllabus Mains – GS 1 Poverty and Developmental issues In News: The World Bank released the latest “Poverty and Shared Prosperity 2022: Correcting Courses” report. The Bank’s latest report is the first comprehensive assessment of the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine on global poverty SDG 1: goal of limiting extreme poverty to just three per cent of total population. Context: Poverty is getting concentrated and chronic in sub-Saharan Africa, in conflict-affected areas and rural areas. Sub-Saharan Africa has the world’s highest poverty rate at 35 per cent and it accounts for 60 per cent of the world’s extreme poor population. In 2020, the pandemic pushed 70 million more people into poverty. As a result, some 719 million people lived below the international extreme poverty line of $2.15 per day or a poverty rate of 9.3 per cent in comparison to 8.4 per cent in 2019. The world is recovering from the pandemic but the impacts of the war would result in pushing 685 million people below the extreme poverty line by the end of 2022. 7 per cent of the world’s population i.e. roughly 574 million people will still struggle in extreme poverty in 2030. This is more than double the SDG1 rate of three per cent. Concerns: Inequality has been widening as a result of the pandemic. The developing and poor countries have added the maximum new poor and the poverty level among the poor have further deepened in these countries. The poorest people bore the steepest costs of the pandemic: income losses averaged four per cent for the poorest 40 per cent, double the losses of the wealthiest 20 per cent of the income distribution. The rising food and energy prices and the onslaught of the climate emergency — extreme weather events impacting agriculture and also disasters wiping out assets and incomes — have not just made recovery impossible but also pushed the poor to chronic levels of poverty. Sustainable Development Goals: The 17 Goals for People, for Planet were adopted by all UN Member States in 2015, as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development which set out a 15-year plan to achieve the Goals. In SDG Summit 2019, a call for “Decade of Action” was made to tackle growing poverty, empower women and girls, and address the climate emergency. The Addis Ababa Action Agenda provides concrete policies and actions to support the implementation of the new agenda. NITI Aayog is responsible for monitoring and reviewed the SDGs using a set of global indicators. The SDGs are not legally binding. However, countries are expected to take ownership and establish a national framework for achieving the 17 Goals. SDG Report 2022 is an annual report, prepared by the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs, to provide an overview of the world’s implementation efforts to date, highlighting areas of progress and where more action needs to be taken. Government Initiatives to combat poverty: National Food for Work Programme: launched in 2004 in 150 most backward districts of the country with the objective to intensify the generation of supplementary wage employment. The programme is open to all rural poor who need wage employment and desire to do manual unskilled work. It is implemented as a 100 per cent centrally sponsored scheme and the food grains are provided to States free of cost. However, the transportation cost, handling charges and taxes on foodgrains are the responsibility of the States. MGNREGA: launched in 2005, to ensure the security and livelihood of people in rural areas, this act guarantees a minimum of 100 days of wage employment. All districts in India are covered. It established right to a job and there is provision of unemployment allowance. It ensures social inclusion in the form of reservation of 33% of the beneficiaries as women. Moreover, the robust institutions for grievance redressal and social auditing guarantee accountability and transparency. Integrated Rural Development Program(IRDP): launched in 1978–79 to alleviate rural poverty by providing income-generated assets to the poorest of the poor. To create sustainable opportunities for self-employment in the rural sector. The program is implemented as a centrally sponsored scheme funded on a 50:50 basis. Assistance is given in the form of subsidy by the government and term credit advanced by financial institutions. Swaranjayanti Gram Swarozgar Yojana (SGSY): launched in 1999, aims at bringing the assisted poor families (Swarozgaris) above the poverty line by organizing them into Self Help Groups (SHGs) through a mix of Bank credit and Government subsidy. National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM): launched in 2011, aided by World Bank, it is focused on promoting self-employment, organization of rural poor and access to financial services. SGSY is now remodelled to NRLM. Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY): launched in 2000 provides foodgrains at a highly subsidized rate of Rs.2.00 per kg for wheat and Rs.3.00 per kg for rice to the poor families under the Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS). 35 kg per family per month. Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS): launched in June 1997 to manage food scarcity and distributing essential food commodities at affordable prices, to distribute essential food commodities like rice, wheat and kerosene at highly subsidized rates to BPL population. This poverty alleviation scheme helps in addressing the issue of food insecurity in rural areas of India. Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY): launched in 2000 as a 100 per cent Centrally Sponsored Scheme, aims at providing rural connectivity to unconnected habitations with population of 500 persons or more in the rural areas. Augmenting and modernising rural roads Rural Housing – Indira Awaas Yojana (IAY): 1999-2000 is the major scheme for construction of houses for the poor, free of cost. The Ministry of Rural Development (MORD) provides equity support to the Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) for this purpose Sampoorna Grameen Rozgar Yojana (SGRY): launched in 2001, aims at providing additional wage employment in all rural areas and thereby food security and improve nutritional levels. The SGRY is open to all rural poor who need wage employment and desire to do manual and unskilled work around the village/habitat. The programme is implemented through the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). Pradhan Mantri Gramodaya Yojana (PMGY): launched in 2000-01 envisages allocation of Additional Central Assistance (ACA) to the States and UTs for selected basic services such as primary health, primary education, rural shelter, rural drinking water, nutrition and rural electrification. Swarna Jayanti Shahari Rozgar Yojana (SJSRY): The Urban Self Employment Programme and the Urban Wage Employment Programme are the two special components of the SJSRY, which, in December 1997, substituted for various extant programmes implemented for urban poverty alleviation. SJSRY is funded on a 75:25 basis between the Centre and the States. Valmiki Ambedkar Awas Yojana (VAMBAY): launched in 2001 facilitates the construction and upgradation of dwelling units for the slum dwellers and provides a healthy and enabling urban environment through community toilets under Nirmal Bharat Abhiyan, a component of the scheme. Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP), Desert Development Programme (DDP) and Integrated Wastelands Development Programme (IWDP) Way forward: To reach the SDG1 level by 2030, each country here needs an annual economic growth of nine per cent for the next eight years. Source: Down to Earth                    Baba’s Explainer – National Logistics Policy National Logistics Policy Syllabus GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. GS-3: Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Context: Recently, the Government has launched a National Logistics Policy (NLP) 2022, aiming to achieve ‘quick last-mile delivery’, end transport-related challenges. Read Complete Details on National Logistics Policy Daily Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) With reference to ‘herSTART’ scheme, consider the following statements: It is the flagship scheme of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It includes a digital platform to provide resources and training modules free of cost to aspiring women entrepreneurs. It has been recognised by the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) as a key driving initiative in the States Startup Rankings Framework Report of 2022. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 3 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2, and 3 Q.2) The term ‘Decade for Action’ is sometimes seen in the news in the context of: Online content regulations made by the European Union to moderate user content plan of action outlined by the countries of the world to digitize start-ups pledges taken by the countries to combat oil spills and marine pollution plan of action outlined by the countries of the world regarding Sustainable Development Goal Q.3) Consider the following statements regarding Chola Dynasty: The Airavateswara temple at Darasuram near Thanjavur built during the reign of Rajaraja II. Chola period bronzes were created using the lost wax technique. The dynasty was founded by king Vijaylaya Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 2 and 3 1 and 3 only 3 only 2 and 3 only Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’7th October 2022 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs. ANSWERS FOR 6th October – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – c Q.2) – b  Q.3) – a table, td, th { border: 1px solid;} table {width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; }

Oct 7, 2022 Baba’s Explainer

Baba's Explainer - National Logistics Policy

ARCHIVES Syllabus GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. GS-3: Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Context: Recently, the Government has launched a National Logistics Policy (NLP) 2022, aiming to achieve ‘quick last-mile delivery’, end transport-related challenges. What is Logistics and what is the importance of it? Logistics refers to the overall process of managing how resources are acquired, stored, and transported to their final destination. Logistics management involves identifying prospective distributors and suppliers and determining their effectiveness and accessibility. The goal of logistics management is to have the right amount of a resource or input at the right time, getting it to the appropriate location in proper condition, and delivering it to the correct internal or external customer.  For example, in the natural gas industry, logistics involves managing the pipelines, trucks, storage facilities, and distribution centres that handle oil as it is transformed along the supply chain. An efficient supply chain and effective logistical procedures are essential to reduce costs and to maintain and increase efficiency. Logistics efficiency is a function of infrastructure, services (digital systems / processes / regulatory framework) and human resource Poor logistics lead to untimely deliveries, failure to meet the needs of clientele, and ultimately cause the business to suffer. Suppliers, manufacturers, distributors and retailers have had to improve their logistics processes to meet the demand for quicker, more convenient delivery of a wider variety of goods. One reason large online retailers like Amazon have come to dominate the retail landscape is the overall innovation and efficiency of their logistics along every link of the supply chain. Logistics management is an important component of supply chain management (SCM). While the terms are sometimes used interchangeably, logistics focuses on moving products and materials as efficiently as possible. In contrast, SCM encompasses a much broader range of supply chain planning (SCP) activities, such as demand planning and sales and operations planning (S&OP), and supply chain execution (SCE), including strategic sourcing and transportation management. How competitive is India when it comes to logistics? In 2018, India was ranked 44th in the World Bank Logistics Performance Index, a measure through which the Bank ranks countries based on their logistics performance. India currently records relatively higher logistics costs at 13-14 per cent of the GDP while it is 8-10 per cent for most of the mature economies. Also, the sector is highly fragmented and unorganised. The regulatory environment is complex due to multiple regulations governed by various stakeholders. For example, there are over 20 government agencies; 37 export promotion councils; 500 certifications; 200 shipping agencies; 36 logistics services; 129 Inland Container Depots and 168 Container Freight Stations. The logistics sector is also heavily dependent on road transport. There is also a low level of technology adoption among various stakeholders. The high indirect costs due to unpredictable supply chains and poor first and last mile connectivity add to the logistics cost. Due to high logistical cost, the competitiveness of India’s exports is greatly reduced. The survey conducted by Ministry of Commerce and Industry suggested that states should focus on areas such as developing sector-specific skilling infrastructure and streamlining logistics-related approval and clearance processes. Also, Infrastructure creation in India had suffered from lack of coordination between different Departments, for example, once a road was constructed, other agencies dug up the constructed road again for activities like laying of underground cables, gas pipelines etc. This not only caused great inconvenience but was also a wasteful expenditure. What has been the Government’s strategy to reduce logistics costs? Since 2014, when the Modi government came to power, there has been much emphasis on improving logistics, through initiatives like Sagarmala for shipping Bharatmala for road UDAN for aviation. FASTag for electronic toll tax collection faceless assessment for customs Launched in October 2021 PM Gati Shakti – National Master Plan for Multi-modal Connectivity, is essentially a digital platform to bring 16 Ministries including Railways and Roadways together for integrated planning and coordinated implementation of infrastructure connectivity projects. PM GatiShakti will provide the public and business community information regarding the upcoming connectivity projects, other business hubs, industrial areas and surrounding environment. This will enable the investors to plan their businesses at suitable locations leading to enhanced synergies. Economic Zones like textile clusters, pharmaceutical clusters, defence corridors, electronic parks, industrial corridors, fishing clusters, agri zones will be covered to improve connectivity & make Indian businesses more competitive. What is the objective of the National Logistics Policy? The PM Gati Shakti scheme envisages efficiency in services like processes, digital systems and regulatory framework. The National Logistics Policy, launched on September 17, is the logical next step to provide a comprehensive agenda to develop the entire logistics ecosystem with two major visions. Therefore, National Logistics Policy and GatiShakti will work as double engines for logistics The vision of the National Logistics policy is to develop a technologically enabled, integrated, cost-efficient, resilient, sustainable and trusted logistics ecosystem in the country for accelerated and inclusive growth. The first objective of National Logistics Policy is to reduce logistics cost in India by 5 per cent of GDP over the next five years. The second is to improve India’s ranking in the Logistics Performance Index. It endeavours to be among top 25 countries by 2030 in the Index ranking It aims to create data driven decision support mechanism for an efficient logistics ecosystem. It also aims to enhance logistics sector competitiveness through a unified policy environment and an integrated institutional mechanism. The policy’s target is to ensure that logistical issues are minimised, exports grow manifold, and small industries and the people working in them benefit significantly. The policy seeks to pave the way for India to become a logistics hub by providing seamlessly integrated multiple modes of transportation by leveraging technology, processes and skilled manpower. What are the key building blocks of National Logistics Policy? Integration of Digital System (IDS): 30 different systems of seven departments are integrated – including data from the road transport, railways, customs, aviation and commerce departments. Unified Logistics Interface Platform (ULIP): This will bring all the digital services related to the transportation sector into a single portal Ease of Logistics Services (ELOG): It is a new digital platform started for industry associations to resolve issues by reaching out to the government. System Improvement Group (SIG): It will advise the government on changes to be made in existing laws and processes in order to improve cargo movement in the country. SIG will also submit reports and recommendations suggesting areas of intervention to concerned line ministries. Comprehensive Logistics Action Plan: The Policy will be implemented through a Comprehensive Logistics Action Plan (CLAP). The interventions proposed under the CLAP are divided into eight key action areas: (i) Integrated Digital Logistics Systems (ii) Standardisation of physical assets and benchmarking service quality standards (iii) Logistics Human Resources Development and Capacity Building (iv) State Engagement (v) EXIM (Export-Import) Logistics (vi) Service Improvement framework (vii) Sectoral Plan for Efficient Logistics (viii) Facilitation of Development of Logistics Parks. What are the implications of having such a policy? The response has been positive from stakeholders. For the first time, the $200 billion logistics sector has been given the attention it deserves. The policy is an example of inter-ministerial collaboration and will help in integrating the supply chain. The Unified Logistics Interface Platform will enhance visibility for customers and enable logistics companies to adopt digitisation on a much larger scale. More importantly, the policy will spur investment across the logistics sector. What is the way forward? Cooperative Federalism: The stakeholders feel there has to be alignment of the policy across all States to be effective. Impetus to Water Transport: For decades the country has talked about eco-friendly and cost-effective inland waterways freight movement, but nothing has happened. Along with improving inland riverine transport, there is also the need to increase the size of our ports manifold. There is valuable learning available from China, who puts key emphasis on Port Infrastructure and is home to 10 of the world’s top 20 ports. Consolidating Road Sector: Road logistics is a totally fragmented sector, where a large chunk of truck owners have a very small fleet. There is a clear case for the aggregation of small operators with government-supported aggregation apps. Similarly, there is a need for large players in the sector to drag costs down. Revamping Railway Sector: The average speed of a freight train has stagnated at 25 kmph for decades— it has to be urgently doubled to 50 kmph at least. The railways need to have a time-table based goods operation. It has to become an aggregator at the source of freight, and disaggregator at the destination, to capture the high-value small-load business. Boosting Air Transport: It is time to give wings to air logistics and drastically improve the transport of high-value and perishable items. This not only necessitated increasing the number of airports & providing incentives for private players but also requires steps to be taken to create a robust MRO (Maintenance, repair and overhaul) sector airlines. Main Practice Question: Logistics is the lifeline of National economy. In this context, analyse the steps taken by the government to improve logistics in the country. Note: Write answer his question in the comment section. table{ border: 1px solid; } table tr, table td{ border: 1px solid; }

Oct 7, 2022 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2022 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 7th October 2022

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) – CLICK HERE The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” Important Note: Don’t forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today’s test 🙂After completing the 5 questions, click on ‘View Questions’ to check your score, time taken, and solutions.To take the Test Click Here

Oct 6, 2022 IASbaba's Courses

[ADMISSIONS OPEN] IASbaba’s Prelims Exclusive Programme (PEP) – Most Comprehensive Mentorship-Based Program for UPSC PRELIMS 2023!

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Oct 6, 2022 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 6th October 2022

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) SASTRA Ramanujan Prize Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Science and Technology Context: The SASTRA Ramanujan Prize for 2022 will be awarded to Yunqing Tang, Assistant Professor with the University of California, Berkeley, U.S.A. The prize will be awarded at the International Conference on Number Theory in December, 2022 at SASTRA University. Yunqing’s works “display a remarkable combination of sophisticated techniques, in which the arithmetic and geometry of modular curves and of Shimura varieties play a central role, and her results and methods are bound to have major impact on future research in this area.” About SASTRA Ramanujan Prize: The award, instituted by the Shanmugha Arts, Science, Technology & Research Academy (SASTRA) in 2005 with a cash prize of $10,000, is presented annually to individuals aged 32 and below, who made outstanding contributions in the field of mathematics, influenced by Srinivasa Ramanjuan in a broad sense. Srinivasa Ramanujan (1887-1920) Born on 22nd December, 1887 in Erode, Tamil Nadu and died on 26th April 1920 in Kumbakonam, Tamil Nadu, India. In 1911 Ramanujan published the first of his papers in the Journal of the Indian Mathematical Society. In 1913 he began a correspondence with the British mathematician Godfrey H. Hardy which led to a special scholarship from the University of Madras and a grant from Trinity College, Cambridge. In 1918 he was elected to the Royal Society of London. Ramanujan was one of the youngest members of Britain’s Royal Society and the first Indian to be elected a Fellow of Trinity College, Cambridge University. Contributions to Mathematics: Formulas and Equations: Ramanujan compiled around 3,900 results consisting of equations and identities. One of his most treasured findings was his infinite series for Pi. He gave several formulas to calculate the digits of Pi in many unconventional ways. Game Theory: He discovered a long list of new ideas to solve many challenging mathematical problems, which gave a significant impetus to the development of game theory. His contribution to game theory is purely based on intuition and natural talent and remains unrivalled to this day. Ramanujan’s Book: One of Ramanujan’s notebooks was discovered by George Andrews in 1976 in the library at Trinity College. Later the contents of this notebook were published as a book. Other Contributions: Ramanujan’s other notable contributions include hypergeometric series, the Riemann series, the elliptic integrals, mock theta function, the theory of divergent series, and the functional equations of the zeta function. Source:  The Hindu Previous Year Question Q.1) Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards: Bharat Ratna and Padma awards are titles under the Article 18 (1) of the Constitution of India. Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, were suspended only once. The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of five in a particular year. Which of the above statements are not correct?  (2022) 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 YUVA 2.0 Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Governance Context: The Ministry of Education recently launched YUVA 2.0 – Prime Minister’s Scheme for Mentoring Young Authors, a programme to train young and budding authors to promote reading, writing and book culture in the country, and project India and Indian writings globally. About Young, Upcoming and Versatile Authors(YUVA) 2.0: The launch of YUVA 2.0 is in tune with the Prime Minister’s vision to encourage the youth to understand and appreciate India’s democracy. The National Book Trust (NBT), India, under the Ministry of Education as the Implementing Agency will ensure phase-wise execution of the Scheme under well-defined stages of mentorship. It aims to promote reading, writing, and book culture in the country. Significance: It will help to develop a stream of writers who can write on a spectrum of subjects to promote the Indian heritage, culture, and knowledge system. It will also provide a window to the aspiring youth to articulate themselves and present a comprehensive outlook of Indian Democratic values at domestic as well as international platforms. Source: Indian Express Previous Year Question Q.1) With reference to Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission, consider the following statements: Private and public hospitals must adopt it. As it aims to achieve universal health coverage, every citizen of India should be part of it ultimately. It has seamless portability across the country. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?  (2022) 1 and 2 only 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Conservation of species Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Environment In News: Canberra, Australia launches new federal action plan to make efforts at conservation and recovering of the Koala and the Olive Ridley turtle and 110 other ‘priority species’ over the next 10 years. About Koalas: The koala is an iconic Australian animal, often called the koala “bear”. This tree-climbing animal is a marsupial—a mammal with a pouch for the development of offspring. They have two opposing thumbs on their hands, and both their feet and hands have rough pads and claws to grab onto branches. They have two toes, fused together, on their feet, which they use to comb their fur. Koalas live in the eucalyptus forests of Australia and rely on the eucalyptus tree for both habitat and food. Eucalyptus is toxic, so the koala’s digestive system has to work hard to digest it, breaking down the toxins and extracting limited nutrients. That’s why koalas sleep for 18-22 hours because they get very little energy from their diet. Koalas usually don’t drink much water as they get most of their moisture from these leaves. Threats to survival include hunting for their fur, habitat loss, land clearing, logging, bushfires and Chlamydia. IUCN status: Vulnerable About Olive ridley turtles: The olive ridley gets its name from the olive-green colour of its heart-shaped shell. They grow to about 2 feet in length, and 50 kg in weight. Males and females grow to the same size; however, females have a slightly more rounded carapace as compared to the male. They are carnivores, and feed mainly on jellyfish, shrimp, snails, crabs, molluscs and a variety of fish and their eggs. They are remarkable navigators and spend their entire lives in the ocean, and migrate thousands of kilometres between feeding and mating grounds in the course of a year. They come to the surface to breathe. Adult female sea turtles return to land to lay their eggs in the sand in a process called ‘Arribada’ nesting. The coast of Orissa in India is the largest mass nesting site for the Olive-ridley. Threat to survival include bycatch in fishing gear, direct harvest of turtle eggs and meat, loss of nesting habitat, vessel strikes, ocean pollution and climate change. IUCN status: Vulnerable Source: Down to Earth Previous Year Question Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2019) Some species of turtles are herbivores. Some species of fish are herbivores. Some species of marine mammals are herbivores. Some species of snakes viviparous. Which of the statements given above arc correct? 1 and 3 only 2, 3 and 4 only 2 and 4 only 1, 2, 3 and 4 Shyamji Krishna Varma Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Modern History In news: The Prime Minister has paid tributes to Shyamji Krishna Varma on his Jayanti. About Shyamji Krishna Varma: Born in 1857 in modern-day Gujarat, Shyamji Krishna Varma completed his education in India, before moving on to teach Sanskrit at the Oxford University. In 1905 he founded the “India House” acted as one of the most prominent centres for revolutionary Indian nationalism outside India. He also found monthly journal “The Indian Sociologist” which became an outlet for nationalist ideas and through the Indian Home Rule Society, he criticised the British rule in India. On 18 February 1905, Shyamji inaugurated a new organisation called “The Indian Home Rule Society” with the object of securing Home Rule for India. Varma became the first President of Bombay Arya Samaj. He was an admirer of Dayanand Saraswati, and he inspired Veer Savarkar who was a member of India House in London. Verma also served as the Divan of a number of states in India. A memorial called Kranti Teerth dedicated to him was inaugurated in 2010 near Mandvi, Kutch, Gujarat.                 Source:  PIB Previous Year Question Q.1) With reference to Indian freedom struggle, Usha Mehta is well-known for (2011): Running the secret Congress Radio in the wake of Quit India Movement Participating in the Second Round Table Conference Leading a contingent of Indian National Army Assisting in the formation of Interim Government under Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru UNCTAD Trade & Development report 2021 Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – International Relations In News: India’s economic growth is expected to decline to 5.7% this year from 8.2% in 2021, the UNCTAD Trade and Development Report 2022. It is expected to decline to 4.7% in the year 2023-24. The UNCTAD report said India experienced an expansion of 8.2% in 2021, the strongest among G20 countries. As supply chain disruptions eased, rising domestic demand turned the current account surplus into a deficit and growth decelerated. Concerns: Higher financing cost and weaker public expenditures High level of joblessness and distress –  5,907 MSMEs have shut shop in the last two years. Lack of contribution by the informal sector –  2017-18 contribution was as much as 52% which has now plummeted to less than 20%. Unemployment levels have consistently remained well above 8% for the past two years. About Trade and Development Report: It is an annual report released by UNCTAD It provides comprehensive and authoritative analysis of economic trends and policy issues of international concern. It offers recommendations for building a global economy that ensures better future for all people and the planet. It concerns itself with economic and social damage caused by financial crises, growing debt, stagnant wages and environmental degradation. It is intended for economists, policy makers, academics and all those involved in economic and trade research and analysis. The 2021 report is titled “From recovery to resilience: The Development Dimension” Source: The Hindu Previous Year Question Q.1) Global Financial Stability Report’ is prepared by the (2016): European Central Bank International Monetary Fund International Bank for Reconstruction and Development Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development Contaminated medicines Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Health and Hygiene In News: Following the death of 66 children in Gambia, the World Health Organization (WHO) has raised an alert over four medicines of fever, cold and cough syrups produced by Haryana-based Maiden Pharmaceuticals Limited and has urged people to not use them. India’s apex drug regulatory authority – the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) – has already launched an investigation into the matter. About: Names of medicines: The four syrups are — Promethazine Oral Solution, Kofexmalin Baby Cough Syrup, Mak off Baby Cough Syrup and Magrip N Cold Syrup. Names of contaminants: Unacceptable amounts of diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol are found as contaminants. Effect of contaminants: Diethylene glycol and ethylene glycol can cause toxic effects, including abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhoea, inability to pass urine, headache, altered mental state, and acute kidney injury that may lead to death These medicinal products are substandard and unsafe for use, especially in children, and may result in serious injury or death, as per WHO. Measures to be taken: Individuals are advised to seek immediate medical advice from a qualified healthcare professional and report the incident to the National Regulatory Authority or National Pharmacovigilance Centre. Countries should increase surveillance of the supply chains to detect and remove the substandard products including surveillance of informal or unregulated markets. Source:  Indian Express Russia-Ukraine Conflict Open in new window Syllabus Mains – GS 2 (International Relations) In News: With regard to the continuing Russia-Ukraine war, Prime Minister Narendra Modi connected with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on a telephonic call. Mr. Zelenskyy responded that he would not conduct any negotiations with the “current President of the Russian Federation”. He complimented Mr. Modi for his “now is not the time for war” comment. In turn, Mr. Modi told him that there is no military solution to the conflict. Context: Over the past seven months, the war and western sanctions have had a dramatic impact on global security, food, fuel and energy supplies, and it is important to keep the lines of communication open. The unfolding developments in Ukraine have also played out in the United Nations, in particular the Security Council, where India is serving as a non-permanent member. India’s Position and Dialogues: India’s position on the Ukraine conflict has been steadfast and consistent. India has expressed deep concern at the worsening situation and called for immediate cessation of violence and end to all hostilities. India, at the UNSC and UNGA, has urged an urgent ceasefire and ensuring safe passage for stranded civilians. India has also highlighted the humanitarian assistance extended to Ukraine and its neighbours at this hour of crisis. Since the unfolding of this crisis, Prime Minister spoke with the leadership of Russian Federation, Ukraine, and its neighbours as well other major world leaders; and  conveyed the view to all parties concerned that there is no other choice but the path of diplomacy and dialogue. Prime Minister reiterated that India has always stood for peaceful resolution of issues and direct dialogue between the two parties and thanked Ukrainian authorities for their facilitation in enabling more than 22,000 Indian citizens from Ukraine. Prime Minister also spoke with President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, on the status of negotiations between the Ukrainian and Russian teams. He suggested that a direct conversation between President Putin and President Zelenskyy may greatly assist the ongoing peace efforts. India has emphasised that the global order is anchored on international law, UN Charter and respect for territorial integrity and sovereignty of states. Our position on the situation in Ukraine in various international fora and bodies reflects this reasoning. India’s Neutrality: Despite its discomfort with Moscow’s war, New Delhi has adopted a studied public neutrality toward Russia. Evidence of Neutrality: It has abstained from successive votes in the UN Security Council, General Assembly, and Human Rights Council that condemned Russian aggression in Ukraine and thus far has refused to openly call out Russia as the instigator of the crisis. Response of the U.S.: India’s neutrality has been disappointing because it signalled a sharp divergence on the legitimacy of using force to change borders and occupy another nation’s territory through a blatant war of conquest. Causes: India’s public neutrality toward the Russian invasion is partially driven by its concerns vis-à-vis China and Pakistan – seen as immediate and enduring threats. Preserving its friendship with Moscow will help to prevent deepening Russian ties with China and to limit Russian temptations to build new strategic ties with Pakistan. Importance of relations with Russia: Russia is a sturdy friend of India’s going back to 1955, when Soviet premier declared Moscow’s support for Indian claims over Jammu and Kashmir. The Soviet Union wielded vetoes in the UNSC on India’s behalf on six occasions. Keeping Russia on side through its veto-wielding prerogatives thus remains an important consideration that reinforces India’s reticence to criticize Russia. Russia also remains a critical source of weapons for India. Challenges: Nuclear safety: The Zaporizhzhia plant which falls under Oblast province, is under Russian control and is near the scene of fighting. Endangerment of nuclear facilities could have catastrophic consequences for public health and environment. Loss of credibility with the U.S.: India stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the United States in opposing Chinese assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific while at the same time, it is appearing tolerant of the vastly more egregious Russian belligerence in Europe. Inconsistency in diplomacy: It exposes the inconsistency in India’s commitment to protecting the rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific over that in Europe, at a time when its biggest international partners—economic and strategic—are both united in their determination to penalize Russia and at odds with India’s posture on Ukraine. Loss of public image: It also leaves India in the company of strange bedfellows such as China and Pakistan, which happen to be India’s adversaries and have behaved toward India as Russia has toward Ukraine. Way forward: There should be adherence to the UN charter and protection of territorial sovereignty. Role of other institutions such as IAEA must be leveraged – is involved in brokering talks between Ukraine and Russia to enforce a nuclear protective zone around the Zaporizhzhia plant. India has an established record in global peace-making. Mr. Modi expressed “India’s readiness to contribute to any peace efforts”. However, New Delhi can only play that part if it also sets out its position more clearly, and links it to it actions on the global stage. MUST READ: India-Russia Relations Source:The Hindu Land Degradation and Desertification Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Environment and Governance Mains – GS 2 (Governance) and GS 3 (Environment) Context: The government is planning to bring convergence between the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) and the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) to restore degraded land and reverse desertification in India. According to the Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas 2021, at least 30% of India’s total geographical area is under the category of “degraded land”. Land degradation and Desertification : It is a temporary or permanent degeneration of productivity of land due to physical, chemical or biological factors. Desertification is a form of land degradation by which fertile land becomes desert. It leads to the advancement of sand from the desert to the adjoining regions. Causes of Land Degradation and Desertification: Land degradation is caused by multiple forces, including extreme weather conditions, particularly drought. It is also caused by human activities that pollute or degrade the quality of soils and land utility. Impact of Land degradation and Desertification: Environmental Impact: Land degradation and Desertification results in problems like soil erosion, loss of natural nutrients, water-logging and salinity and contamination of ground and surface water. Loss of Fertility due to the use of various scientific inputs like irrigation, fertilizers, pesticides etc. Unscientific cropping practices are also causing harm. Waterlogging happens when the water table gets saturated for various reasons—over-irrigation, seepage from canals, inadequate drainage etc. Potential Impacts on Human Health: It negatively affects food production, livelihoods, and the production and provision of other ecosystem goods and services. higher threats of malnutrition from reduced food and water supplies; more water- and food-borne diseases that result from poor hygiene and a lack of clean water. Global Efforts to  Combating Land Degradation: United Nations Convention on Combating Desertification (UNCCD): Established in 1994 aim to protect and restore our land and ensure a safer, just, and more sustainable future. The UNCCD is the only legally binding framework set up to address desertification and the effects of drought. There are 197 Parties to the Convention, including 196 country Parties and the European Union. The Convention is based on the principles of participation, partnership and decentralization. Bonn Challenge: It is a global goal to bring 150 million hectares of degraded and deforested landscapes into restoration by 2020 and 350 million hectares by 2030. Launched by the Government of Germany and IUCN in 2011, the Challenge surpassed the 150-million-hectare milestone for pledges in 2017. Great Green Wall Initiative: Launched in 2007 by the African Union, being implemented across 22 African countries Aim: To restore the continent’s degraded landscapes and transform millions of lives in the Sahel. Objective: To restore 100 million hectares of currently degraded land; sequester 250 million tons of carbon and create 10 million green jobs by 2030. Indian Initiatives: National level land degradation mapping: It is taken up by ISRO along with partner institutions, under the Natural Resources Census (NRC) mission of DOS/ISRO, towards generating information on land degradation at 1:50,000 scale, using 23m resolution (multi-temporal & multi-spectral) IRS data. Desertification and Land Degradation Atlas of India: Published by: Space Application Centre (SAC), ISRO, Ahmedabad. Provides a state wise area of degraded lands for the time frame 2018-19. Provides the change analysis for the duration of 15 years, from 2003-05 to 2018-19. United Nations Convention on Combating Desertification (UNCCD) India is a signatory to the UNCCD. India hosted the 14th session of Conference of Parties (COP 14) of United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in September 2019. India is striving towards achieving the national commitments of Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN) and restoration of 26 million ha of degraded land by 2030 which focus on sustainable and optimum utilisation of land resources. Nodal Ministry for the Implementation: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) Bonn Challenge: At the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP) 2015 in Paris, India joined the voluntary Bonn Challenge and pledged to bring into restoration 13 million hectares of degraded and deforested land by 2020, and an additional 8 million hectares by 2030. Flagship Schemes: Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana Soil Health Card Scheme Suggestion for Convergence: Using MGNREGS Funds Presently, activities such as ridge area treatment, drainage line treatment, soil and moisture conservation, rainwater harvesting, nursery raising, afforestation, horticulture and pasture development are done under the Department of Land Resources, the Ministry of Rural Development. The Union government now wants the States to undertake these activities using MGNREGS funds, which go towards both material and wage components. As of now, there is Central allocation of Rs.8,134 crore for developing 4.95 million hectares. The Rural Development Ministry is now hoping that by making use of the MGNREGS, which for the financial year 2022-23 has a budget of ?73,000 crore, the government can scale up the area to be covered. By the Ministry’s own estimate, a convergence with the MGNREGS could help take up treatment of about 30% more land than feasible with the current scheme size. Way Forward: Combating desertification and land degradation and mitigating the effects of drought will secure long-term socio-economic benefits for people living in the drylands and reduce their vulnerability to climate change. Land Degradation Neutrality (LDN)—with conservation, sustainable use, and restoration as its three pillars—provides an effective framework. Creating an enabling environment for LDN can help policymakers and planners to navigate social, economic, and environmental trade-offs so food security, energy needs, land tenure, gender equality, access to clean water, and biodiversity are considered—and addressed—together. Source: The Hindu Previous Year Question Q.1) Consider the following statements: “The Climate Group” is an international non-profit organization that drives climate action by building large networks and runs them. The International Energy Agency in partnership with the Climate Group launched a global initiative “EP100”. EP100 brings together leading companies committed to driving innovation in energy efficiency and increasing competitiveness while delivering on emission reduction goals. Some Indian companies are members of EP100. The International Energy Agency is the Secretariat to the “Under2 Coalition”. Which of the statements given above are correct?  (2022) 1, 2, 4 and 5 1, 3 and 4 only 2, 3 and 5 only 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Q.2) “If rainforests and tropical forests are the lungs of the Earth, then surely wetlands function as its kidneys.” Which one of the following functions of wetlands best reflects the above statement?             (2022) The water cycle in wetlands involves surface runoff, subsoil percolation and evaporation. Algae form the nutrient base upon which fish, crustaceans, molluscs, birds, reptiles and mammals thrive. Wetlands play a vital role in maintaining sedimentation balance and soil stabilization. Aquatic plants absorb heavy metals and excess nutrients. Mission Karmayogi Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Governance Mains – GS 2 (Governance) and GS 4 (Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude) Context: The civil services have remained at the epicentre of all government activities in India, both as agents of policymaking as well as the executive hand that delivers and implements those policies Therefore, this unique moment of Amrit Mahotsav is the appropriate time for the civil services to pause, reflect and strategize on the approaches needed to shape its future. People-centric governance is no longer aspirational but is rapidly becoming the national imperative. Evolution of the Indian state:  from being a provider and a provisioner state, to becoming a “partnership state: These forces have led to a sharper focus on citizen-centricity, engagement and partnership, which the Prime Minister has aptly called Jan Bhagidari. These forces herald a new phase in the evolution of the Indian state — from being a provider and a provisioner state, to becoming a “partnership state”. As we observed during the time of covid-19 pandemic that different arms of the national government acts as partnership state, from the PMO to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and many other ministries, the NITI Aayog, ICMR and other central government organisations. These arms collaborated effectively with international bodies and state governments, bringing out the strength of India’s global relations and federal structure. Changing dynamics with the evolving India and world:  Rise of information and communication technology (ICT) With the rise of ICT, we are becoming more interconnected globally. Young Indians living in small towns and villages are connected to the wider world, which is shaping their aspirations and desires. India’s citizens are no longer content to passively receive benefits from a patronising government. they are actively making claims on the state and feel empowered to shape how it affects their lives. More empowered and aware citizens: Better informed citizenry is giving shape to a more mature political system, in which politicians from across the spectrum recognise the importance of delivering on campaign promises of better health, education and social benefits. Development of new technology: Development of new technologies is opening up possibilities for governance. The state needs to leverage them to deliver the greatest good for the largest number. Expanding dimensions of “partnership state with the time: With the emergence of challenging situation such as Covid-19 pandemic, it was observed that private sector, civil society and citizen volunteer groups all joined the effort against the virus All these parts of society came together as one “Team India” to fight the pandemic. This is the true spirit of the “partnership state”. Role of Civil services in the partnership state: (Mission Karmayogi): Operating in this dynamic ecosystem requires a new mindset and an evolving skill set. It needs skills of collaboration, adaptiveness, credit sharing, persuasion, and conflict resolution along with a nuanced and practical understanding of disruptive innovations, digital arenas, big data management and emerging technologies. This is the fertile ground from which the seeds of Mission Karmayogi emerged. Indian government initiative Mission Karmayogi, the National Programme for Civil Services Capacity Building (NPCSCB), encapsulates three transitions. The first transition is a change in the mindset of government officials from considering themselves karmacharis to becoming karmayogis. The second transition is a change in the workplace, from assigning individual responsibility for performance, to diagnosing the constraints to a civil servant’s performance and remediating them. The third transition is moving the public HR management system and the corresponding capacity building apparatus from being rule-based to role-based. Way forward: A post-Covid BANI (brittle, anxious, non-linear and incomprehensible) world is redefining the understanding of the future of work. The understanding of what is a public good is also evolving along with the aspirations of citizens. India is moving towards a “less government, more governance” approach. This requires a paradigmatic shift in the capacities, mindset, and actions of the civil servant. Technology is redefining how goods and services can be rendered. From Aadhaar to DBT and Digilocker, from CPGRAMS to MyGov, from faceless transactions to drone deliveries, from online learning to a digital university, India is rapidly integrating technology in both governance and in delivering goods and services. Therefore, the structure and setup of the workplace is rapidly altering and “work from anywhere to deliver good governance” to all citizens will soon become the norm. All this requires a worker (civil servant) who is not just committed but also has the competence to deliver on this evolving mandate. Source:  Indian Express Previous Year Question Q.1) In the context of India, which one of the following is the characteristic appropriate for bureaucracy?    (2020) An agency for widening the scope of parliamentary democracy An agency for strengthening the structure of federalism An agency for facilitating political stability and economic growth An agency for the implementation of public policy Food Innovation Hubs Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Economy and Governance Mains – GS 2 (Governance) and GS 3 (Economy and Agriculture) Context: Recently the World Economic Forum (WEF) is bringing together a network called ‘Food Innovation Hubs’. What are Food Innovation Hubs? Food Innovation Hubs are a multistakeholder, precompetitive and market-based partnership platform These platforms will leverage the role of technology and broader innovations in support of a transformation agenda. It will lead to more inclusive, efficient, sustainable, nutritious, and healthy food systems. The Food Innovation Hubs are founded by partners from governments, private sector, innovators, entrepreneurs, farmer organizations, civil society, international organizations and others. The Hubs are designed locally to address the needs of the local food system to Foster and cultivate food systems innovation Support delivery and adoption of innovations at scale Develop a community of practice to share learnings and build capacity Promoting innovations The first hub in India is being set up in Madhya Pradesh under a collaboration agreement between the WEF and Madhya Pradesh government. The hub which is based on agricultural development will promote innovations in alignment with tenets of the AatmaNirbharta. The Food Innovation Hub in India aspires to enable a mechanism that can strengthen local innovation ecosystems and address needs across the food value chains using technology and innovation. Setting up and operating FIHs: Any hub is set up with close cooperation of local government and private sectors to meet its goals. There is no direct funding from the WEF for initiating projects under the hub. The hub enables the Public Private Partnership (PPPs) by roping in aggrotech companies and linking them with government agencies such as Krishi Vigyan Kendra’s etc. The innovation hubs depend on one another for knowledge exchange with a Global Coordinating Secretariat in Holland. It ensures that every hub is functioning as per global objectives, besides acting as a stimulant. Proof of concept is essential: Any FIH will proceed only after the firms involved create a proof of concept with the government. Madhya Pradesh was chosen for initiating the hub’s work as it was open to exploring opportunities transparently and collaboratively. Various aggrotech firms can be part of a project providing a variety of cutting-edge solutions Pledge financing through fintech modalities Using spectrometers to perform quality assaying Using remote sensing to providing advisories Facilitating efficient crop insurance. Besides aggrotech firms, not-for-profit companies are also involved to enhance the reach and credibility of digital innovations at the last mile. What are the focus areas of the FIHs? The Food Innovation Hubs will focus on many facets of food processing and agriculture such as New age digital agriculture Innovations in regenerative farming New age agro-ecological solutions. It will look at several modern and traditional models to address climate resilience. It looks at upcoming innovations in carbon offsets whose implementation is critical to providing financial incentives to the farmers to grow more sustainably. Leveraging Carbon credits: The carbon credit market is becoming big globally and India can benefit with a well thought out execution plan. There are existing firms and new ones who run business operations that aim to pass on the benefits of protecting ecosystem services to farmers Other new age innovations include the usage of targeted soil and crop management through drones. Spraying of bio-chemicals on fresh produce that may enhance shelf life and thus arrest food loss. These are conducive to the environment and support nutrition and health in the long term. The initiative aims to facilitate pilot projects to validate and test innovations, particularly by aggrotech companies, and support them in achieving scale and amplification in the future. Way Forward: The FIHs can be financed through unconventional sources such as philanthropic funds. These funds are looking to unlock the PPPs by Providing initial funding, particularly in achieving proof of concepts. Philanthropic partners are an integral part of initiating and accelerating ecosystem transformation A growing set of global players from the private and public sector drive and support this exciting initiative. Once India’s Food Innovation Hub builds a solid ground in the targeted places it will be a game changer for leveraging agriculture sector Therefore, its successful implementation presents opportunities which can be carried out in other states such as Odisha, Bihar and Meghalaya etc. About World Economic Forum: The World Economic Forum (WEF) is a non-profit foundation. It was established in 1971 and is based in Geneva, Switzerland. It is recognized by the Swiss authorities as the international institution for public-private cooperation. Mission: It is committed to improving the state of the world by engaging business, political, academic, and other leaders of society to shape global, regional, and industry agendas. Some major reports published by WEF are: Global Gender Gap Report. Global Risk Report. Energy Transition Index. Global Competitiveness Report. Global IT Report Global Travel and Tourism Report. Source:  The Hindu Baba’s Explainer -Farming Based Carbon Credits Farming Based Carbon Credits Syllabus GS-3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation Context: The Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2022, which was introduced and passed in the Lok Sabha, incorporated the aim of developing the domestic carbon market. While the bill focuses on the renewable energy industry, it can indirectly benefit the country’s farmers as well. Poor soil health and decreasing profits plague Indian farmers. Selling carbon credits might be the opportunity that addresses these problems. Read Complete Details on Farming Based Carbon Credits Daily Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) With reference to Koalas, consider the following statements: Koalas are endemic to Australia and rely on the palm tree for both habitat and food. They sleep for 18-22 hours because they get very little energy from their diet. In India, Koalas are found near Odisha coast. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 1 only 2 only 1 and 3 only. Q.2) Shyamji Krishna Varma was responsible for starting the Home Rule Movement. the founder of The Indian Sociologist. first President of Bombay Arya Samaj. Select the correct statement/statements using the codes given below. 1 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.3) Which of the following organization releases the Global Gender Gap Report ? World Economic Forum UN Women World Bank Ministry of Women and Child Development Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’6th October 2022 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs. ANSWERS FOR 4th October – Daily Practice MCQs Answers- Daily Practice MCQs Q.1) – c Q.2) – b Q.3) – a table, td, th { border: 1px solid;} table {width: 100%; border-collapse: collapse; }

Oct 6, 2022 Baba’s Explainer

Baba's Explainer - Farming Based Carbon Credits

ARCHIVES Syllabus GS-3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation Context: The Energy Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2022, which was introduced and passed in the Lok Sabha, incorporated the aim of developing the domestic carbon market. While the bill focuses on the renewable energy industry, it can indirectly benefit the country’s farmers as well. Poor soil health and decreasing profits plague Indian farmers. Selling carbon credits might be the opportunity that addresses these problems. Importance of agricultural sector Approximately 55 percent of India’s population is employed in agriculture. Given its dependence on natural resources such as soil and water, agriculture is significantly impacted by the climate crisis The effects of climate crisis includes land degradation, market volatility in prices, and rising input costs. This affects the sustainability of agricultural production and the livelihoods of those dependent on it. Why Improving soil health is critical? The intensive application of fertilisers and pesticides since the Green Revolution has depleted soil carbon levels and consequently degraded the soil. Various estimates suggest that up to 30 percent of India’s total geographical land area has degraded—almost half of this land constitutes agricultural land, particularly unirrigated/rainfed agricultural land. Soil comprises organic matter that consists of elements such as carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Approximately 50 percent of soil organic matter is made up of carbon. Thus, soil carbon management is necessary to maintain the overall soil health. Earth’s soil carbon sponge, which is formed by the mixture of mineral and organic detritus and air, has an enhanced capacity to absorb and retain rain, improves access to essential nutrients, and supports a diverse range of microbial processes. Therefore, when soil carbon levels drop, the ability of the soil to absorb and retain water also reduces. This constrains the effect of rainfall on the soil and leaves the topsoil prone to run-off and erosion, further leading to cycles of floods and droughts. Through carbon sequestration, we can increase soil carbon levels and reduce carbon dioxide levels, which acts as a dual benefit to climate change and agriculture. Soil carbon sequestration is a process by which the air’s carbon dioxide is extracted and stored in a soil carbon pool. During photosynthesis, plants break down carbon dioxide and water from the atmosphere into oxygen, sugar, and carbon-rich compounds. These reach the roots and the soil underneath and nourish the organisms below the soil. The reduction of biomass below the soil, increased soil erosion, and higher tilling causes a higher percentage of carbon dioxide to be released back into the air, which leaves the soil with reduced carbon content. What are the practices that farmers can follow to restore soil health? Techniques that increase biomass and reduce the loss of carbon from soil must be adopted in order to improve soil health. These regenerative agriculture practices include: Cover cropping to keep the land covered at all times Residue mulching and recycling the soil’s biowaste Manure, compost, and biofertiliser usage Better crop rotations and intercropping Reducing flood irrigation and chemical use When farmers follow these practices for a few seasons, the carbon content of soil improves. As a result, the yield also increases. However, farmers may need an incentive to adopt these practices as they can be time-consuming and expensive, and unremunerative in the short term. The ability to trade carbon credits at voluntary carbon markets can serve as this incentive. How can Carbon credit monetisation act as a nudge? Since the improvement of soil health is innately linked with the ability to increase soil carbon levels, achieving it demands the continuous monitoring of soil carbon levels and the incentivisation of its improvement. Monetising soil carbon requires a good understanding of carbon credits. Carbon credits are certificates that represent quantities of greenhouse gases that have been kept out of the air or removed from it. One carbon credit certifies that one metric tonne of carbon dioxide has been removed from the atmosphere. Advancements in remote sensing data and AI have enabled the prediction of carbon levels through satellite data, and this serves as one of the methods through which carbon credits are calculated. Companies and governments purchase carbon credits to meet the climate commitments that they make. Farmers can benefit from participating in the carbon market. The direct benefit is that farmers receive cash-based incentives for the carbon they have helped sequester in their lands. A farmer who sequesters one carbon credit can earn approximately INR 780 at current market prices, but large corporations are likely to provide better rates—as high as INR 2,000—to farmers when directly purchasing large chunks of carbon credits. It is estimated that farmers who follow regenerative practices are able to sequester one to four carbon credits per acre. The indirect benefit that farmers experience is the improvement in soil health due to the carbon captured in the soil. This improvement can be gauged by determining whether the soil displays any of the following characteristics: Increased water-holding capacity, lower soil density, increased water infiltration, increased nutrient availability, and decreased soil surface temperature. How do carbon credit programmes for farmers work? While it isn’t easy for individual farmers to go down this route, nonprofits and farmer producer organisations (FPOs) can help them avail the benefits of the carbon credit programmes. Follow regenerative agriculture practices as a group The first step is for nonprofits/FPOs to promote regenerative agriculture practices among their farmer groups, especially focusing on increasing soil organic matter and soil carbon. Since this can take time and initially lead to lower yields, it is important to handhold and support the farmers during the initial years. Showing that these regenerative practices were adopted is a key step in the process of availing carbon credits. Onboarding and third-party verification of carbon credits   Once the projects are identified and listed, third-party agencies verify these projects. After verification and approval, these credits are sold in credit markets, and the incentives are distributed to the FPO as well as the farmers. Usually this takes between eight and 12 months from the time the project is listed. What are the challenges of farming based carbon credits? As with any emerging area, this too has its share of challenges. The verification and accurate accounting of carbon increases in the soil is challenging when it comes to proving additionality—the company facilitating the sale of carbon credits must show that the farmer engaged in new practices over and above the routine practices to increase soil carbon levels. Once the project is listed, it takes eight to 12 months for the cash incentives to arrive to farmers and FPOs/nonprofits. Additionally, it may take about 12 to 18 months for a project to be listed. This prolonged wait can be arduous for farmers. The average landholding size of an Indian farmer is just over one hectare. Thus, the amount of carbon credits received may not be enough for a small farmer to adopt regenerative agriculture practices. Furthermore, since carbon credit trading is in its nascent stages, there is very little awareness among farmers about this option. What can be done to address these challenges? Farmers need to be made aware of the existence and benefits of carbon credit programmes, so that all farmers practising regenerative agriculture can benefit from it. As per a McKinsey report, the demand for carbon credits is expected to rise by approximately 15 times by 2030. As a result, market prices of carbon credits could improve significantly. The process of measuring and verifying the carbon captured in the soil is evolving rapidly due to technological innovations. As technology continues to improve, the measurement and verification process could become far simpler. Since most carbon credit programmes onboard farmer groups rather than individual farmers, the cost and the associated risk of participation for an individual farmer are reduced. Governments at the state and central level could attempt to align existing natural farming, regenerative farming, and organic farming schemes so as to nudge farmers to participate in carbon credit programmes. For instance, scheme guidelines could mandate the regular estimation of soil carbon levels, and the data obtained could be shared with carbon credit verifiers to facilitate measurement and verification processes. With countries across the world making climate commitments, the interplay of carbon credit markets with farmers is likely to evolve over the coming years. However, given the multifaceted benefits of an increase in soil carbon levels, it may be the nudge that leads to the proliferation of regenerative agriculture practices and helps combat climate change. China launched its own carbon trading market in 2021. Introducing a similar market in India could also act as a catalyst for achieving climate goals and promote regenerative agriculture through carbon-led incentives. Main Practice Question: How can modern market mechanism like Carbon Trading be utilised in agricultural sector? Note: Write answer his question in the comment section. table{ border: 1px solid; } table tr, table td{ border: 1px solid; }