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Aug 1, 2022 Baba’s Explainer

Baba's Explainer - Reviving BSNL

ARCHIVES Syllabus GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. GS-2: Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Context: In yet another effort to revive the state-owned telecom firm Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), the Union Cabinet on July 27 approved a ₹1.64–lakh crore package for its revival. The four-year turnaround plan includes both a cash component and a non-cash component. The revival package was announced with an aim to upgrade the operator’s network to 4G while de-stressing its balance sheet. What is the history of BSNL? BHARAT SANCHAR NIGAM LIMITED (BSNL) was incorporated on 15th september 2000. It is a 100% Govt. of India owned Public Sector Undertaking. It took over the business of providing of telecom services and network management from the erstwhile Central Government Departments of Telecom Services (DTS). The company provides telecom services throughout the country excluding Delhi & Mumbai. Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL) was set up on 1st April 1986 by the Government of India for telecom development needs of Delhi, the political capital and Mumbai, the financial capital of India BSNL company has a vast experience in planning, installation, network integration & maintenance of switches & transmission networks. BSNL has a world class ISO 9000 certified Telecom Training Institute. Some of the objectives of the company are: Increase sales revenue with focus on subscriber retention & acquisition by way of strengthening marketing, quality of service and customer delivery. Strengthen company’s finances by gainful utilization of its assets through sharing / monetization of existing infrastructure like land, building and sharing of passive infrastructure like towers etc. Creating Wi-Fi Hot Spots and replacing Legacy wire line exchanges by Next Generation Network.Accelerate the pace of expansion of mobile & data services with up-gradation of technology. To explore opportunities in international telecom in developing markets. To become preferred service provider to the Government for reliable and secure service Network and to serve National security interests. What financial problems BSNL is facing? BSNL’s revenues were nearly ₹40,000 crore in March 2007, while Airtel’s revenues were only ₹18,420 crore. By 2009, BSNL’s profits had nosedived 81% and revenues fell 6% even as Airtel’s revenues grew by over ₹10,000 crore during 2008-09 and its profits increased to ₹7,859 crore. BSNL has run up losses of ₹50,000 crore over the last five years. The once dominant public sector company has been reduced to a mere footnote, due to years of political interference and typical bureaucratic style functioning. The new paradigm in telecom is data; and here, whoever gives the best experience will emerge the winner. Operators who are quick to understand consumer demands, and nimbly cater to them, will win. BSNL does not have a culture that puts customers at the centre. The demand is driven by device, content, access, application, storage, and security. An essential metric to assess the health of telecom service providers is ARPU, that is, average revenue per user. Bharti Airtel’s ARPU in the March-end quarter increased about 23%, while Reliance Jio’s ARPU increased 27% on a year-on-year basis. BSNL’s social sector duties prompt that all loss on capital assets is met from internal accruals only. Thus, it is unable to promptly respond to technological innovations in the market like its private peers, say a rapid transition from 4G to 5G. BSNL lost wireless subscribers at an average 0.30% each month, whereas Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio combined had acquired wireless subscribers at an average 0.43% each month. There is also a difference in the number of Base Transceiver Stations (BTSs) held by the three companies. BTS is an equipment that sends and receives radio signals from mobile devices and routes them to other terminals in the network. Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel held six and five-and-half times more BTSs, respectively, when compared with BSNL. Also, Reliance Jio and Bharti Airtel had almost five times more subscribers in rural areas compared with BSNL. Have there been attempts earlier to revive this government-owned telecom provider? There have been many attempts earlier to improve BSNL’s operations. For example, a committee headed by Sam Pitroda offered a 15-point plan to turn around the PSU, including trimming staff divesting 30 per cent adopting a managed services model for its various operations, inducting a chief executive from the private sector. The Sam Pitroda plan has not been acted upon. The Centre has also given financial aid to BSNL in the form of refunds on spectrum payments, soft loans, and grants to keep the struggling public sector company afloat. In 2019, the Centre had announced a ₹70,000 crore revival package in a bid to help the PSU survive. The package proposed the merger of Mahanagar Telecom Nigam Ltd (MTNL) and BSNL. It was argued that since the BSNL reaches out to populations in rural areas and MTNL is based in the metro cities of Mumbai and Delhi, combining their synergies would help acquire a pan-India footprint. However, the merger had been delayed owing to financial reasons, including the high debt of MTNL For helping spur operations, the Government had announced a capital infusion of ₹20,140 crore for acquiring spectrum. The overall package which was for MTNL and BSNL combined, paved the way for the two PSUs to raise long term-bonds for which the Centre provided sovereign guarantee. Why did they fail? No revival plan can succeed by just pumping in money. BSNL’s biggest problem is that it has multiple layers of decision making. This makes it a slow mover in a market which has the likes of Reliance Jio and Airtel. For example, the PSU still buys equipment through tenders where the lowest bidder wins. The best vendors in technology are not the cheapest. What is the latest package about? The 2022 package has three broad components. Infusing fresh capital for upgrading the state-owned operator’s services. Starting with the endeavour to upscale its services, BSNL would be allocated spectrum in 900/1800 MHz band administratively at the cost of ₹44,993 crore via equity infusion. Spectrum can be defined as invisible radio frequencies on which wireless signals travel, facilitating phone calls and internet usage The allocation would help BSNL increase as well as consolidate its serviceable bandwidth Thus, it would be able to provide high speed data utilising a vaster network presence, more importantly, in rural areas. Other than spectrum, in order to pursue its social objectives, the Government would provision ₹13,789 crore to the company to fund its operational viability gap in the commercially unviable rural wireline operations that it had undertaken between 2014-15 and 2019-20. Strengthening its stressed balance sheet The telecom department said the Centre will provide sovereign guarantee to BSNL and MTNL for raising long-term loans. They will be able to raise long-term bonds for an amount of Rs 40,399 crore. To further improve the balance sheet, AGR dues of BSNL amounting to Rs 33,404 crore will be settled by conversion into equity, and the government will provide funds to BSNL for settling the AGR/GST dues. The AGR refers to the fee-sharing mechanism that computes the share in revenues that the telecom service providers (TSPs) are required to pay the government as annual licence fee and spectrum usage charges. Further, BSNL will re-issue preference share of Rs 7,500 crore to the government. Augmenting its fibre network by merging Bharat Broadband Nigam Limited (BBNL) and BSNL. Why has the government decided to infuse money into a loss-making company? While the move to further support BSNL and not monetise it like Air India is in deviation from the government’s laid down privatisation policy, the case to keep the telecom company afloat has its genesis in three main strategies of the government. Rural Broadband Agenda: Nearly 36 per cent of BSNL’s optical fibre customers are in rural areas, and the operator assists the government in expanding to far-flung areas with low-income consumers for operations that are typically non-viable commercially. Boost Domestic Component Industry: Two, unlike private telecom operators, BSNL has had a heavy dependence on domestic component manufacturers — something that also helps foster a vendor base in the country. With BSNL launching 4G services and subsequently 5G, this will also take the domestic component industry along with it. Strategic Need in challenging areas: Lastly, the presence of BSNL’s network assets in border areas and left-wing extremism affected areas means that the government considers it a strategically important company for it to be privatised. Will the latest attempt involving a massive fund infusion of ₹1.64 lakh crore work? Is funding the only issue here? With these measures, the Centre expects that BSNL will be able to improve the quality of existing services, roll out 4G services, and become financially viable. It also expects that with the implementation of this revival plan, BSNL will turn-around and earn profit in 2026-27 (April-March). However, if BSNL wants to succeed, then it needs leaders with integrity who can establish transparent and effective governance policies. The Centre should also allow such leaders to be independent and take strategic decisions to transform the company. Employees who cannot align with the new realities of the telecom world need to exit. Marketing executives who cannot think of a customer-centric approach, technicians and engineers who cannot innovate for the future, staff who are occupying redundant positions, and top executives who cannot steer the company’s turnaround plan should be allowed to exit. The Centre has promised to hold BSNL accountable for improving revenues and changing the mindset to become customer focussed. BSNL has partnered with a training firm to ensure that 30,000 staff are geared towards making its customers happy. Is it important for BSNL to revive and thrive? India’s telecom consumers need BSNL as an effective counter to the fast-emerging duopoly in the telecom sector. A strong public sector telecom company will not only prevent the private players from increasing tariffs as an easy means to wriggle out of the ongoing financial stress but also ensure that even rural consumers access digital services. BSNL is also strategic for providing secure communications services to highly sensitive segments like the defence establishment and along the international border. Mains Practice Question – In the era of Privatisation, do you think it is prudent to provide financial packages to revive BSNL? Comment. Note: Write answers to this question in the comment section.

Aug 1, 2022 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2022 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 1st August 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

Aug 1, 2022 TLP Mains Answer Writing

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies 3 Questions [1st August, 2022] – Day 37

Hello Students TLP has been an integral ingredient of success for many toppers and is no secret. In the ‘must do’ list for the civil services exam, TLP is by far the most popular initiative. The popularity stems from the unparalleled quality of questions and synopsis posted in TLP. We strive hard to ensure that you get the real feel of UPSC standards before you write the Mains. You already know the features of TLP. Just to reiterate briefly, in the TLP initiative, we post 5 questions daily for a certain number of weeks (11 for this one). We follow a micro plan that is designed to give you daily targets. The questions are from the day’s syllabus and also from current affairs and you are expected to write the answers and post them on the portal. This year onwards TLP will have a Dedicated Portal for Focused Preparation (tlpmains.iasbaba.com). There will be a separate dedicated portal similar to (The RaRe Series) which students loved and appreciated. The Portal will help you stay focused and keep your preparation streamlined. The Registration link for the dedicated portal is given at the end of the post. We are charging a token amount of 10/- for registration to the dedicated portal. We are doing it because we want to create a community of sincere aspirants who are focused and motivated till the Mains Examination. Please don’t take it otherwise. It is our honest effort to give you the best and at the same time expect students to come with the same energy and dedication to the dedicated platform specially designed for YOU! Join our bandwagon, you won’t regret it. UPSC 2023 Aspirants are encouraged to participate as well. Register Here - CLICK HERE To Know More About TLP 2022 (Phase 2) - CLICK HERE To Access Day 37 Questions - CLICK HERE P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm every day. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each other’s answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best

Jul 30, 2022 IASbaba's Courses

[MOST AWAITED COURSE] ILP 2023 – INTEGRATED LEARNING PROGRAM – The Most Comprehensive Self-Study Program recommended by Toppers for UPSC 2023 – Batch 3’ Starts 17th August!

Dear Students We are back with the 3rd batch of the Most Awaited Programme – Integrated Learning Programme (ILP) 2023. ILP has been helping hundreds of rankers every year to achieve their dream of getting into Civil Services. This year as well ILP had helped many aspirants including Rank 58 – Divya Shakti, Rank 134 – Sam Varghese, Rank 169 – Ankita Mishra, Rank 189 – P K Siddharth Kumar and many more.Read Complete Details -> Click Here

Jul 30, 2022 Baba’s Explainer

Baba's Explainer - US Fed Reserve Hike

ARCHIVES Syllabus GS-3: Economy & challenges GS-2: International Events & its impact on India Context: In its continuing bid to cool down raging inflation in the United States — at 9.1% in June, the inflation rate is at a four-decade high — the Federal Reserve or Fed (US’ central bank) decided to raise the Federal Funds Rate target by another 75 basis pushing the rate from zero to almost 2.5% now. What is the Federal Funds Rate (FFR)? The FFR is the interest rate at which commercial banks in the US borrow from each other overnight (recall call money rate) The US Fed can’t directly specify the FFR but it tries to “target” the rate by controlling the money supply. As such, when the Fed wants to raise the prevailing interest rates in the US economy, it reduces the money supply, thus forcing every lender in the economy to charge higher interest rates. The process starts with commercial banks charging higher to lend to each other for overnight loans. Why is the Fed tightening money supply? This is called monetary tightening, and the Fed (or any other central bank, for that matter) resorts to it when it wants to rein in inflation in the economy. By decreasing the amount of money, as well as raising its price (the interest rate), the Fed hopes to reduce the overall demand in the economy. Reduced demand for goods and services is expected to bring down inflation. What are the risks of monetary tightening? Aggressive monetary tightening — like the one currently underway in the US — involves large increases in the interest rates in a relatively short period of time, and it runs the risk of creating a recession. The most common definition of recession requires the GDP of a country to contract in two successive quarters. Contracting GDP typically results in job losses, reduced incomes, and reduced consumption. Since the US GDP has already contracted by 1.6% during the first quarter (January, February and March) of 2022, a contraction in the second quarter will imply the US is in recession This is called a hard-landing of the economy as against a soft landing (which essentially refers to monetary tightening not leading to a recession). The chances of a soft-landing for the US exist but are extremely low. How have other countries reacted to US hiking interest rate? In what is being seen as a reverse currency war, most central banks across the world are trying to raise their interest rates to counter the Fed’s actions and ensure their respective currency claws back value against the dollar. There are three key terms that one is likely to hear repeatedly in the coming days: Yield inversion, soft-landing and reverse currency war. Bond yield curve inversion A yield curve illustrates the interest rates on bonds of increasing maturities. An inverted yield curve occurs when short-term debt instruments carry higher yields than long-term instruments of the same credit risk profile. Inverted yield curves are unusual since longer-term debt should carry greater risk and higher interest rates, so when they occur there are implications for consumers and investors alike. An inverted yield curve is one of the most reliable leading indicators of an impending recession. Soft Landing A soft landing is a cyclical slowdown in economic growth that avoids recession. A soft landing is the goal of a central bank when it seeks to raise interest rates just enough to stop an economy from overheating and experiencing high inflation, without causing a severe downturn. Soft landing may also refer to a gradual, relatively painless slowdown in a particular industry or economic sector. But when the actions of the central bank bring about a recession, it is called a hard-landing. Reverse Currency War A flip side of the US Fed’s action of aggressively raising interest rates is that more and more investors are rushing to invest money in the US. This, in turn, has made the dollar become stronger than all the other currencies. Every central bank is trying to figure out ways to counter the US Fed and raise interest rates themselves in order to ensure their currency doesn’t lose too much value against the dollar. That’s because a currency which is losing value to the dollar, on the other hand, finds that it is getting costlier to import crude oil and other commodities that are often traded in dollars. But raising the interest rate is not without its own risks. Just like in the US, higher interest rates will decrease the chances of a soft-landing for any other economy. What is the outlook for the US economy? The US economy is facing a curious situation. One the one hand, it faces an inflation rate that is at a four-decade high and, on the other, its unemployment rate is at five-decade low However, aggressive monetary tightening of the kind being witnessed will likely result in a recession sooner rather than later. The US inflation rate is at over 9% and the Fed’s target inflation rate is 2% — that’s a gap of 7 percentage points. Historically, every time the Fed has tried to bring down inflation by more than 2 percentage points, the US has witnessed a recession. The ongoing inversion of the bond yield curve is another robust predictor of a recession in the offing. The yields on 2-year, 5-year and 10-year US bonds were 2.97%, 2.83% and 2.78%, respectively. What is the likely impact on India? News of a hike in interest rate in the US leads not only to an outflow of funds from equities into US treasury bonds, but also to an outflow of funds from emerging economies (like India) to the US. The rupee is also expected to come under pressure as the dollar strengthens. In the latest — July update of the — World Economic Outlook, the IMF has downgraded the growth projections for the US, China and India. “Downgrades for China and the United States, as well as for India, are driving the downward revisions to global growth during 2022–23, which reflect the materialization of downside risks highlighted in the April 2022 World Economic Outlook,” it states. A global slowdown is unlikely to have any positives for India apart from some relief in crude oil prices. The IMF has knocked off almost a full percentage point each (0.8%, to be precise) off India’s GDP projections for the current year and the next. “For India, the revision reflects mainly less favorable external conditions and more rapid policy tightening,” explains the IMF. Mains Practice Question – How does US Fed rate hike impact the global economy? Note: Write answers to this question in the comment section.

Jul 30, 2022 TLP Mains Answer Writing

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – Essay Questions [30th July, 2022] – Day 36

Hello Students TLP has been an integral ingredient of success for many toppers and is no secret. In the ‘must do’ list for the civil services exam, TLP is by far the most popular initiative. The popularity stems from the unparalleled quality of questions and synopsis posted in TLP. We strive hard to ensure that you get the real feel of UPSC standards before you write the Mains. You already know the features of TLP. Just to reiterate briefly, in the TLP initiative, we post 5 questions daily for a certain number of weeks (11 for this one). We follow a micro plan that is designed to give you daily targets. The questions are from the day’s syllabus and also from current affairs and you are expected to write the answers and post them on the portal. This year onwards TLP will have a Dedicated Portal for Focused Preparation (tlpmains.iasbaba.com). There will be a separate dedicated portal similar to (The RaRe Series) which students loved and appreciated. The Portal will help you stay focused and keep your preparation streamlined. The Registration link for the dedicated portal is given at the end of the post. We are charging a token amount of 10/- for registration to the dedicated portal. We are doing it because we want to create a community of sincere aspirants who are focused and motivated till the Mains Examination. Please don’t take it otherwise. It is our honest effort to give you the best and at the same time expect students to come with the same energy and dedication to the dedicated platform specially designed for YOU! Join our bandwagon, you won’t regret it. UPSC 2023 Aspirants are encouraged to participate as well. Register Here – CLICK HERE To Know More About TLP 2022 (Phase 2) – CLICK HERE To Access Day 36 Questions – CLICK HERE P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm every day. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each other’s answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best

Jul 30, 2022 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2022 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 30th July 2022

Jul 29, 2022 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 29th July 2022

Archives (PRELIMS & MAINS Focus) Foreign Direct Investment equity flows into India Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Current Affairs Mains – GS 2 (International Relations); GS 3 (Economy) FDI inflows into India Singapore (27.01%) and USA (17.94%) have emerged as top 2 sourcing nations in FDI equity flows into India in FY2021-22 followed by Mauritius (15.98%), Netherland (7.86%) and Switzerland (7.31%). The Government has implemented several transformative reforms under the FDI policy regime across sectors such as insurance, defence, telecom, financial services, pharmaceuticals, retail trading, e-commerce, construction & development, civil aviation, manufacturing etc. Despite the ongoing pandemic and global developments, India received the highest annual FDI inflows of USD 84,835 million in FY 21-22 overtaking last year’s FDI by USD 2.87 billion. India is rapidly emerging as a preferred country for foreign investments in the manufacturing sector. FDI Equity inflow in Manufacturing Sectors have increased by 76% in FY 2021-22 (USD 21.34 billion) compared to previous FY 2020-21 (USD 12.09 billion). Top 5 sectors receiving highest FDI Equity Inflow during FY 2021-22 are Computer Software & Hardware (24.60%), Services Sector (Fin., Banking, Insurance, Non Fin/Business, Outsourcing, R&D and others) (12.13%), Automobile Industry (11.89%), Trading 7.72% and Construction (Infrastructure) Activities (5.52%). Top 5 States receiving highest FDI Equity Inflow during FY 2021-22 are Karnataka (37.55%), Maharashtra (26.26%), Delhi (13.93%), Tamil Nadu (5.10%) and Haryana (4.76%) During FY 2021-22 FDI has been reported from 101 countries, whereas, it was reported from 97 countries during previous FY 2020-21. In India FDI up to 100% is allowed in non-critical sectors through the automatic route, not requiring security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Prior government approval or security clearance from MHA is required for investments in sensitive sectors such as defence, media, telecommunication, satellites, private security agencies, civil aviation and mining, besides any investment from Pakistan and Bangladesh. All foreign investments are required to be in compliance with the applicable entry route, sectoral cap, attendant conditions, sectoral laws, Companies Act, 2013 and rules thereunder, pricing guidelines, documentation and reporting requirements. Source: Pib.Gov Previous Year Question Q.1) With reference to the international trade of India at present, which of the following statements is/are correct? (2020) India’s merchandise exports are less than its merchandise imports. India’s imports of iron and steel, chemicals, fertilisers and machinery have decreased in recent years. India’s exports of services are more than its imports of services. India suffers from an overall trade/current account deficit. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 2 and 4 only 3 only 1, 3 and 4 only Contempt of Court Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Polity In News: Supreme Court warns State Election Commission of Maharashtra of contempt if polls re-notified to include OBC quota. The SC pulled up the Maharashtra SEC and warned it of contempt of court action if it re-notifies elections to 367 local bodies taking the cover of the top court’s July 20 order allowing reservation for OBCs in the local body polls. The court while allowing the OBC reservation on July 20, the court had made it clear that this will not apply to the 367 local bodies where elections had already been notified thereby kick starting the election process. Contempt of Court Contempt of court, as a concept that seeks to protect judicial institutions from motivated attacks and unwarranted criticism, and as a legal mechanism to punish those who lower its authority This follows the initiation of contempt proceedings by the Supreme Court of India, on its own motion. Constitutional Provision and Statutory Basis: When the Constitution was adopted, contempt of court was made one of the restrictions on freedom of speech and expression. Separately, Article 129 of the Constitution conferred on the Supreme Court the power to punish contempt of itself. Article 215 conferred a corresponding power on the High Courts. The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971, gives statutory backing to the idea. Types of Contempt The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 defines both civil and criminal contempt. Civil contempt refers to wilful disobedience to any judgment of the court. Criminal contempt can be invoked if an act: Tends to scandalise or lower the authority of the court. Tends to interfere with the due course of any judicial proceeding. Obstruct the administration of justice. Source: Indian Express Previous Year Question Q.1) Consider the following statements: (2022) Pursuant to the report of H.N. Sanyal Committee, the Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 was passed. The Constitution of India empowers the Supreme Court and the High Courts to punish for contempt of themselves. The Constitution of India defines Civil Contempt and Criminal Contempt. In India, the Parliament is vested with the powers to make laws on Contempt of Court. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 1, 2 and 4 only 3 and 4 only 3 only Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) Vikrant Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Science & Technology In News: Indian Navy has created maritime history by taking delivery of the prestigious Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC) ‘Vikrant’. Designed by Indian Navy’s in-house Directorate of Naval Design (DND) and Built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL), Kochi, a Public Sector Shipyard Under the Ministry of Shipping (MoS). Built with an overall indigenous content of 76% Capable of operating air wing consisting of 30 aircraft comprising of MIG-29K fighter jets, Kamov-31, MH-60R multi-role helicopters, in addition to indigenously manufactured Advanced Light Helicopters (ALH) and Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) (Navy). Using a novel aircraft-operation mode known as STOBAR (Short Take-Off but Arrested Landing), the IAC is equipped with a ski- jump for launching aircraft, and a set of ‘arrester wires’ for their recovery onboard. Significance The reincarnation of Vikrant is a true testimony to the country’s zeal and fervor in pursuing capability build-up towards enhanced maritime security. With the delivery of Vikrant, India has joined a select group of nations having the niche capability to indigenously design and build an Aircraft Carrier. The indigenisation efforts has also led to development of ancillary industries, besides generation of employment opportunities and bolstering plough back effect on economy, both locally as well as pan-India. A major spin-off of this is the development and production of indigenous warship grade steel for the ship through a partnership between Navy, DRDO and Steel Authority of India (SAIL), which has enabled the country to become self-sufficient with respect to warship steel. CSL had also upgraded their shipbuilding infrastructure as well as enhanced productivity skills during the building of the ship. The Indigenous Aircraft Carrier would soon be commissioned into the Indian Navy as Indian Naval Ship (INS) Vikrant which would bolster India’s position in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and its quest for blue water Navy. Source: PIB Previous Year Questions Q.1) With reference to the Agni-IV Missile, which of the following statement(s) is/are correct? (2014) It is a surface-to-surface missile. It is fuelled by liquid propellant only. It can deliver a one-tonne nuclear warhead about 7500 km away. Select the correct answer using the codes given below. 1 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Hambantota port Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Places in News (Geography) In News: Sri Lanka’s Defence Ministry denied reports that a Chinese research vessel involved in space and satellite tracking would enter the Hambantota port in August this year India sent a clear message that it was monitoring the ship’s progress carefully The vessel’s arrival was highlighted by BRISL (Belt & Road Initiative Sri Lanka), a Colombo-based organisation studying China’s ambitious connectivity project. India has traditionally taken a stern view of Chinese military or suspected dual-purpose vessels in the Indian Ocean, and the MEA has protested such visits with Sri Lanka in the past. Previous incidents In 2014, Sri Lanka’s decision to allow a Chinese nuclear-powered submarine Changzheng 2 in Colombo became a diplomatic flashpoint, as New Delhi expressed serious concern. In 2019, the Indian Navy had pushed out a Chinese Naval ship Shi Yan 1, that had come into waters close to the Andaman Islands, and in 2020, two Chinese Research vessels in the Indian Ocean near the Andaman islands had also sparked concerns similar to the current proposed visit of the satellite tracking ship. Hambantota port Hambantota port is located right in middle of vital energy supply lines in Indian Ocean, connecting Middle East and East Asia. Hambantota port is a deep-water port in the southern tip of Sri Lanka. In 2017, Colombo leased the southern port to China Merchant Port Holdings, after Sri Lanka was unable to keep its loan repayment commitments, fanning fears over potential use of the port for military purposes. Source: The Hindu Previous Year Question Q.1) Which one of the following statements best reflects the issue with Senkaku Islands, sometimes mentioned in the news? (2022) It is generally believed that they are artificial islands made by a country around South China Sea. China and Japan engage in maritime disputes over these islands in East China Sea. A permanent American military base has been set up there to help Taiwan to increase its defence capabilities. Though International Court of Justice declared them as no man’s land, some South-East Asian countries claim them. Family Planning Vision-2030 Open in new window Syllabus Mains – GS 1 (Society – Population) In News: Recently Union Health Ministry released Family Planning Vision-2030. Highlights Fertility High teenage fertility in some areas remains a cause of concern in India even as the fertility rate has stabilised across the country. Participation of men will have to be encouraged in the family planning programme and that lack of access to contraceptives had been identified as a priority challenge area. While multiple factors have been identified that explain low contraceptive use among married adolescents and young women, two most important factors are child marriage and teenage pregnancy. Over 118 districts reported high percentage of teenage pregnancies and are mostly concentrated in Bihar (19), West Bengal (15), Assam (13), Maharashtra (13), Jharkhand (10), Andhra Pradesh (7), and Tripura (4) Additionally, over 44% of the districts in India reported high percentage of women marrying before they reach the age of 18. Population India is the second largest country in the world. The country’s population is expected to continue to grow until mid-century (due to population momentum), however, the population growth will decline substantially India’s population has reached 136.3 crore (1.36 billion) and is expected to reach 147.9 crore (1.47 billion) by 2031 and further 152.2 crore (1.52 billion) by 2036. Also the adolescent population will reach 22.9 crore (229 million) by 2031 and further 22 crore (220 million) by 2036. The youth population in the age-group of 15-24 increased from 23.3 crore (233 million) in 2011 to 25.2 crore (252 million) in 2021 and will now decline to reach at 23.4 crore (234 million) in 2031 and further reach 22.9 crore (229 million) in 2036 A priority area The document notes that although there has been a steady decline in teenage childbearing, from 7.9% in the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-4) to 6.8% (in the NFHS-5) it remains a priority area that requires to be addressed, especially since India will continue to have one of the youngest populations in the world until 2030. Must Read: National Family Health Survey Source: The Hindu Previous Year Question Q.1) As per the NSSO 70th Round “Situation Assessment Survey of Agricultural Households”, consider the following statements Rajasthan has the highest percentage share of agricultural households among its rural households. Out of the total agricultural households in the country, a little over 60 percent belong to OBCs. In Kerala, a little over 60 percent of agricultural households are reported to have received maximum income from sources other than agricultural activities. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 2 and 3 only 2 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Uniform Civil Code Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Polity Mains – GS 2 (Polity & Governance) In News: Law Minister tells Rajya Sabha that the government does not propose to set up a committee to implement a uniform civil code (UCC). Minister clarified that government has requested the Law Commission of India to undertake examination of various issues relating to uniform civil code and to make recommendation thereon. Uniform Civil Code The UCC refers to a common set of laws governing personal matters such as marriage, divorce, adoption, inheritance and succession for all citizens, irrespective of religion. Constitutional provisions suggesting UCC: Article 44: The State shall endeavour to secure for the citizens a uniform civil code throughout the territory of India. This is in the chapter dealing with the Directive Principles of State Policy and is therefore presumed to be advisory in nature. Arguments for UCC Uniformity and reduced discord: Common Code would enable uniform civil principles to be applied to the entire Nation. If and when the whole population will start following the same laws, chances are there that it would bring more peace to the living and reduce riots. Secularism and Women’s Rights: UCC would help end gender discrimination and overall discrimination on religious grounds and strengthen the secular fabric of the nation. Therefore UCC could bring all communities together to ensure Women the Right to a dignified life and control over their life as well as body. Courts have also often said in their judgements that the government should move towards a uniform civil code including the judgement in the Shah Bano case. Ending unjust customs and traditions: A rational common and unified personal law will help eradicate many evil, unjust and irrational customs and traditions prevalent across the communities. For instance, Manual scavenging – It might have been a custom in the past but in a mature democracy like India, this custom cannot be justified. Ease of Administration: UCC would make it easy to administer the huge population base of India. Arguments against UCC Hampering diversity and multiculturalism: Indian society has a unique identity in the form of its being diverse and multicultural, and unified law might do away with these unique characteristics of this nation. Violation of fundamental rights: Religious bodies oppose a uniform civil code on the ground that it would be interference in religious affairs which would violate fundamental rights guaranteed under Article 25 of the constitution. May lead to communal unrest: It would be a tyranny to the minority and when implemented could bring a lot of unrest in the country The All India Muslim Personal Law Board stated that the laws pertaining to marriage and inheritance were part of religious injunctions for ages. Way forward Gradual changes – A uniform law, although highly desirable but may be counterproductive to the unity and integrity of the nation especially if applied hastily. In a democracy and rule of law, a gradual progressive change and order must be brought about. Codification of all personal laws as suggested by the Law Commission By codification of different personal laws, one can arrive at certain universal principles that prioritize equity rather than the imposition of a Uniform Civil Code. To resolve the contentious issues like UCC, common consensus of all the stakeholders is needed. Source: The Hindu Cryptojacking Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Science & Technology Mains – GS 3 (Security) In News: Cryptojacking attacks on computer systems have gone up by 30% to 66.7 million in the first half of 2022 compared to the first half of last year, according to a report by SonicWall, a US-based cybersecurity firm. While volume increases were widespread, some business sectors were hit harder than others, such as the finance industry, which saw a rise of 269% What is cryptojacking? Cryptojacking is a cyber attack wherein a computing device is hijacked and controlled by the attacker, and its resources are used to illicitly mine cryptocurrency. In most cases, the malicious programme is installed when the user clicks on an unsafe link, or visits an infected website — and unknowingly provides access to their Internet-connected device. Why is cryptojacking done? Coin mining is a legitimate, competitive process used to release new crypto coins into circulation or to verify new transactions. It involves solving complex computational problems to generate blocks of verified transactions that get added to the blockchain. The reward for the first miner who successfully manages to update the crypto ledger through this route is crypto coins. But the race to crack this 64-digit hexadecimal number code needs considerable computing power involving state-of-the-art hardware, and electrical power to keep the systems involved up and running. Cryptojackers co-opt devices, servers, and cloud infrastructure, and use their resources for mining. The use of stolen or cryptojacked resources slashes the cost involved in mining. Why have cryptojacking incidents gone up? According to the SonicWall’s Cyber Threat Report, the crackdown on ransomware attacks is forcing cybercriminals to look for alternative methods. Cryptojacking involves lower risk, and promises potentially higher payday. Cryptojacking is an appealing alternative for cybercriminal gangs as it has a lower potential of being detected by the victim; unsuspecting users across the world see their devices get unaccountably slower, but it’s hard to tie it to criminal activity, much less point to the source. Unlike ransomware, which announces its presence and relies heavily on communication with victims, cryptojacking can succeed without the victim ever being aware of it. Why should this be a concern? Cryptojacking is hard to detect and the victims of these attacks mostly remain unaware that their systems have been compromised. Some telltale signs are the device slowing down, heating up, or the battery getting drained faster than usual. Apart from individuals, businesses too are on the target list of cryptojackers. The primary impact of cryptojacking is performance-related, though it can also increase costs for the individuals and businesses affected because coin mining uses high levels of electricity and computing power. Source: Indian Express Chess Olympiad Open in new window Syllabus Prelims – Current Affairs In News: Prime Minister of India inaugurated the Fédération Internationale des ÉchecsFrench (FIDE) or International Federation of Chess’s 44th Chess Olympiad in Chennai. Noting that the most prestigious tournament in chess had for the first time come to India – the home of chess – during the 75th year of freedom from colonial rule, PM said there had never been a better time for sport in India than the present. It was only for the first time in three decades the tournament was being organised in Asia with the participation of the highest number of players and teams. Chess Olympiad The Chess Olympiad is a biennial chess tournament in which teams representing nations of the world compete. FIDE organises the tournament and selects the host nation. Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, FIDE held an Online Chess Olympiad in 2020 and 2021, with a rapid time control that affected players’ online ratings. The use of the name “Chess Olympiad” for FIDE’s team championship is of historical origin and implies no connection with the Olympic Games. Source: The Hindu Daily Practice MCQs Daily Practice MCQs Consider the following statements The Speaker of Lok sabha can place a member under suspension. The Rajya Sabha Chairman does not have the power to suspend a Member. In Both the houses it is for the House to resolve on a motion to revoke the suspension. Choose the incorrect statements: 2 only 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 None Q.2) Consider the following statements Mauritius topped the list of FDI equity flows into India in FY2021-22. Computer Software & Hardware sector received the highest FDI Equity Inflow during FY 2021-22 Choose the correct statements: 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements The Constitution of India empowers the Supreme Court and the High Courts to punish for contempt of themselves. The Contempt of Courts Act, 1971 defines both civil and criminal contempt. Civil contempt can be invoked if an act tends to interfere with the due course of any judicial proceeding. Choose the incorrect statements: 1 only 1 and 2 3 only 1 and 3 Comment the answers to the above questions in the comment section below!! ANSWERS FOR ’29th JULY 2022 – Daily Practice MCQs’ will be updated along with tomorrow’s Daily Current Affairs. ANSWERS FOR 28th JULY 2022 – 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;}

Jul 29, 2022 TLP Mains Answer Writing

ASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies 4 Questions [29th July, 2022] – Day 35

Hello Students TLP has been an integral ingredient of success for many toppers and is no secret. In the ‘must do’ list for the civil services exam, TLP is by far the most popular initiative. The popularity stems from the unparalleled quality of questions and synopsis posted in TLP. We strive hard to ensure that you get the real feel of UPSC standards before you write the Mains. You already know the features of TLP. Just to reiterate briefly, in the TLP initiative, we post 5 questions daily for a certain number of weeks (11 for this one). We follow a micro plan that is designed to give you daily targets. The questions are from the day’s syllabus and also from current affairs and you are expected to write the answers and post them on the portal. This year onwards TLP will have a Dedicated Portal for Focused Preparation (tlpmains.iasbaba.com). There will be a separate dedicated portal similar to (The RaRe Series) which students loved and appreciated. The Portal will help you stay focused and keep your preparation streamlined. The Registration link for the dedicated portal is given at the end of the post. We are charging a token amount of 10/- for registration to the dedicated portal. We are doing it because we want to create a community of sincere aspirants who are focused and motivated till the Mains Examination. Please don’t take it otherwise. It is our honest effort to give you the best and at the same time expect students to come with the same energy and dedication to the dedicated platform specially designed for YOU! Join our bandwagon, you won’t regret it. UPSC 2023 Aspirants are encouraged to participate as well. Register Here – CLICK HERE To Know More About TLP 2022 (Phase 2) – CLICK HERE To Access Day 35 Questions – CLICK HERE P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm every day. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each other’s answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best

Jul 29, 2022 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2022 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 29th July 2022

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