IAS Baba

Aug 15, 2021 Motivational Articles

[MI-STORIES]MOTIVATIONAL AND INSPIRATIONAL STORIES - Wait for the brick!

For Previous Story -> CLICK HERE Inspirational Stories: Here is the story for this week from the new series of Inspirational and Motivational stories. One of the oldest known forms of communication is story telling. There is something primordial within us that loves stories and their tremendous impact. In this series, we aim to bring you the best of real-life stories that can inspire and motivate you. Stories always try to teach us something useful. It is one of the best ways of learning from other's mistakes and avoiding our own. Although each story has its own moral, in the comments section you can share your opinion on the moral of the story. If you are able to see something that others might have missed, you can share it for the benefit of all. Apart from just reading these awesome stories, you can also share some of the stories that have inspired you. If we find the story appropriate and useful, we will share it with all. More importantly, read these stories every week without a miss, and stay inspired. So Here is the story for this week - Wait for the brick! A young and successful executive was traveling down a neighborhood street, going a bit too fast in his new Jaguar. He was watching for kids darting out from between parked cars and slowed down when he thought he saw something. As his car passed, no children appeared. Instead, a brick smashed into the Jag’s side door! He slammed on the brakes and drove the Jag back to the spot where the brick had been thrown. The angry driver then jumped out of the car, grabbed the nearest kid and pushed him up against a parked car, shouting, “What was that all about and who are you? Just what the heck are you doing? That’s a new car and that brick you threw is going to cost a lot of money. Why did you do it?” The young boy was apologetic. “Please mister … please, I’m sorry… I didn’t know what else to do,” he pleaded. “I threw the brick because no one else would stop…” With tears dripping down his face and off his chin, the youth pointed to a spot just around a parked car. “It’s my brother,” he said. “He rolled off the curb and fell out of his wheelchair and I can’t lift him up.” Now sobbing, the boy asked the stunned executive, “Would you please help me get him back into his wheelchair? He’s hurt and he’s too heavy for me.” Moved beyond words, the driver tried to swallow the rapidly swelling lump in his throat. He hurriedly lifted the handicapped boy back into the wheelchair, then took out his fancy handkerchief and dabbed at the fresh scrapes and cuts. A quick look told him everything was going to be okay. “Thank you and may God bless you,” the grateful child told the stranger. Too shook up for words, the man simply watched the little boy push his wheelchair-bound brother down the sidewalk toward their home. It was a long, slow walk back to the Jaguar. The damage was very noticeable, but the driver never bothered to repair the dented side door. He kept the dent there to remind him of this message: Don’t go through life so fast that someone has to throw a brick at you to get your attention!

Aug 15, 2021 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Desire is a Ghost – Inspirational Educative Articles

Desire is a Ghost: You can only accommodate one thing on your plate at a time: You can either have peace or you can have your desires. Once this becomes clear: I cannot accommodate both. This is life. When I’m desiring, I’m just desire. I am no being, I am no mind, I am just a desire. Desire has no existential root. A desire is a ghost. It has no home, it is trying to find something, and it is just floating around. That’s what a desire is. So when you are desiring, you’re not you. You’re just a ghost. How can you find peace and certainty when you’re a ghost? The very definition of ghost is that you are not there; you’re not a being. I’m a human being, I’m not a ghost, because I have some basis in existence, in reality; I have a body, I have a mind. You are a ghost because you don’t have anything real. You are just a desire floating around. Fundamentally, you have to come to the conclusion that peace is very physical, it’s a real thing. Once you understand that it’s a real thing, then you have to make a choice: What do I want this moment? I’m not even saying that you have to only be desiring for peace. But at this point in time your desires have taken over you so completely that you’re not even able to accommodate peace, even for a few minutes in a day. If you tell your mind, for ten minutes just stop desiring and be peaceful, your mind goes crazy because it has identified itself with its desires. Once that identification breaks, once you realize that desiring is happening to you, you are acknowledging it and you don’t have to become that desire. You can have control over it. You can choose. So that’s what gaining control is. To say, For the next ten minutes I want peace, which means I cannot have any desires. So just sit and drop your desires and try to find that peace. It’ll take a few days, it might take a few months, it might take a few years, it doesn’t matter. Eventually, you will get to a point where those ten minutes will be yours and yours alone. That is what we are searching for. We’re searching for that one minute where we have full control over our lives, which means we have full control over our thought process. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Nirvana Foundation and IASBABA.”

Aug 14, 2021 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th August 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) AB-PMJAY and COVID treatment Part of: GS Prelims and GS- II - Health In news Under the Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY), the Union government’s health insurance scheme, approximately 20.32 la7kh COVID-19 tests and 7.08 lakh treatments were authorised from April 2020 to July 2021. The cover allowed beneficiaries to avail free testing and treatment across all empanelled hospitals — both public and private. Besides this, State governments were provided with the flexibility of modifying the Ayushman packages as per the local requirements. About Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) This scheme is a Centrally sponsored scheme with some Central sector components. PMJAY offers a sum insured of 5 lakh per family for secondary care (which doesn’t involve a super specialist) as well as tertiary care. For the beneficiaries, this is a free scheme. It is an entitlement-based scheme that targets the beneficiaries as identified by latest Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) data. Individuals can walk into any empanelled hospital that can process cashless payments. Once identified by the database, the beneficiary is considered insured. The insurance cost is shared by the centre and the state mostly in the ratio of 60:40. There are about 1,400 packaged rates for various medical procedures under the scheme. These packaged rates also mention the number of average days of hospitalization for a medical procedure and supporting documents that are needed. Under no circumstances can hospitals charge the beneficiary. The scheme also has prescribed a daily limit for medical management. National Health Agency has been constituted as an autonomous entity under the Society Registration Act, 1860 for effective implementation of PMJAY in alliance with state governments. This includes formulation of PMJAY policies, development of operational guidelines, implementation mechanisms, coordination with state governments, monitoring and oversight of PMJAY amongst other. News Source: TH Sovereign Right to Taxation Part of: Prelims and GS - III - Fiscal policy In news Recently, the Government of India introduced The Taxation Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2021 in the Lok Sabha which seeks to withdraw tax demands made using a 2012 retrospective legislation to tax the indirect transfer of Indian assets. The government has stressed the need to establish its sovereign right to taxation. What is Sovereignty? Sovereignty, in political theory, means the ultimate overseer, or authority, in the decision-making process of the state and in the maintenance of order. The term was originally understood to mean the equivalent of supreme power. Constitutional Sovereignty implies that the constitution is sovereign and supreme. Sovereign Right to Taxation in India In India, the Constitution gives the government the right to levy taxes on individuals and organisations, but makes it clear that no one has the right to levy or charge taxes except by the authority of law. Any tax being charged has to be backed by a law passed by the legislature or Parliament (Article 265). Taxation in India Tax is a pecuniary burden laid upon individuals or property owners to support the government, a payment exacted by legislative Authority. A tax is not a voluntary payment or donation, but an enforced contribution. Taxes in India come under a three-tier system based on the Central, State and local governments. The Seventh Schedule of the Constitution puts separate heads of taxation under the Union and State list. There is no separate head under the Concurrent list, meaning Union and the States have no concurrent power of taxation News Source: IE Open Acreage Licensing Programme Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III - Infrastructure In news In an attempt to boost domestic hydrocarbon production, the petroleum and natural ministry launched the sixth bid round under the liberal Open Acreage Licensing Programme (OALP). Earlier, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved the Policy framework on reforms in the exploration and licensing sector for enhancing domestic exploration and production of oil and gas. About Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) The Hydrocarbon Exploration and Licensing Policy (HELP) replacing the erstwhile New Exploration Licensing Policy (NELP) was approved in March 2016. The Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) along with the National Data Repository (NDR) were launched in June 2017 as the key drivers to accelerate the Exploration and Production (E&P) activities in India. Under OALP, companies are allowed to carve out areas they want to explore oil and gas in. Companies can put in an expression of interest (EOI) for any area throughout the year but such interests are accumulated thrice in a year. The areas sought are then offered for bidding. This policy is different from the past where the government identified areas and offered them for bidding. What is Need of the Policy? India is one of the fastest growing major economies in the world. It is the third largest consumer of petroleum products after the US and China. India is heavily dependent on import of crude oil to meet its energy needs. Net imports of crude oil have increased from 111.50 metric tons during 2006-07 to 202.85 metric tons during 2015-16. In this backdrop, India has set a target to reduce dependence on crude oil imports by 10% by 2022. What are the Benefits involved? Increase in Exploration Removal of Red-Tapism News Source: PIB (News from PIB) Vehicle Scrappage Policy Part of: GS Prelims In news: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Vehicle Scrappage Policy in India on Friday, 13 August, at the Gujarat Investor Summit and requested youths and start-ups to join the programme. What is the policy? Personal vehicles older than 20 years and commercial vehicles older than 15 years will have to undergo a fitness test at government registered ‘automated fitness centres’. Vehicles that fail to pass the test will be declared as ‘end-of-life vehicles’ meaning that they would have to be recycled. Thus, paving the way for older vehicles to be scrapped. In case, the vehicles pass the test, the owners will have to pay a hefty fee for re-registration that would be hiked to around eight times for personal vehicles, and around 20 times for commercial vehicles. The policy is a “waste-to-wealth mission and an important part of the circular economy that will reduce pollution in our cities and also reflect the government's commitment towards rapid development. The policy will also bring investments worth more than Rs 10,000 crore and, in the process, create employment opportunities for thousands of youngsters. News Source: PIB Operation Blue Freedom Part of: GS Prelims In news: Recently, The Government of India has permitted a team of people with disabilities to scale Siachen Glacier. The team of people with disabilities trained by ‘Team CLAW’ a team of Armed Forces veterans. The selected people with disabilities from across the country will undertake an expedition till Kumar Post (Siachen Glacier) to create a new World Record for the largest team of people with disabilities to reach the world’s highest battlefield. The successful execution of this pioneering expedition, ‘Operation Blue Freedom’, shall firmly place India on the global stage as a leader in empowering Divyangjan and set a benchmark for other nations to emulate. News Source: PIB (Mains Focus) SECURITY/ ECONOMY GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors. GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. An Indian sail to navigate the maritime environment In news: PM Modi’s address on August 9 at the UNSC High-Level Open Debate on “Enhancing Maritime Security: A Case For International Cooperation”. He described the oceans as a common heritage for humankind and a lifeline for the future of the planet. Need for Maritime Security With a long coastline and large island chains spread across the Indian Ocean, India has a natural seaward orientation, with key sea lanes of communication coursing through its surrounding seas. 90% of global trade is conducted on the high seas, for the simple reason that it continues to be the most cost effective mode of transport. Disruption of sea lanes of communication has National and global economic repercussions. Freedom of navigation and unimpeded commerce are key to the spread of prosperity. India’s natural interests stretch across both the Indian and Pacific Oceans as reflected in its inclusive Indo-Pacific vision. During the debate, PM Modi outlined 5 principles needed for global maritime security. The principles are Removing barriers from legitimate maritime trade, Encouraging responsible maritime connectivity, Settling maritime disputes through peaceful means and on the basis of international law, Jointly facing natural disasters and maritime threats created by non-state actors. Preserving the maritime environment and resources. Primacy of UNCLOS As President of the UN Security Council for the month of August, India’s leadership in the debate on maritime security, that too at the level of the Prime Minister, has strengthened its credentials as a key stake-holder in the maritime commons. The Presidential Statement issued on the occasion highlights the commitment of the UN Security Council to international law. More relevantly, it emphasises the importance of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea as the legal framework governing all maritime activity. Conclusion India’s natural interests stretch across both the Indian and Pacific Oceans as reflected in its inclusive Indo-Pacific vision. No doubt, India’s initiative will further the prospects for a stable and enduring maritime environment. Connecting the dots: Vision SAGAR Sagarmala Project Genome Mapping in Indian Ocean Deep Ocean Mission AGRICULTURE/ SCIENCE & TECH/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Issues of food security; Technology missions GS-3: Science & Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life. GS-:2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors GM soy meal import In news Union government has decided to allow the import of crushed genetically modified (GM) soybean, which is a major ingredient of poultry feed. A GM or transgenic crop is a plant that has a novel combination of genetic material obtained through the use of modern biotechnology. Need for the decision The poultry industry has been crushed by multiple disasters over the last year and a half. In January 2020, a false rumour that COVID-19 could be spread by eating chicken meat led to a crash in demand A year later, avian flu cases led to another crash, followed by a crippling rise in the prices of poultry feed. Rise in soybean process in domestic Indian market had led to the skyrocketing of input costs which led to increase in prices of chicken products in the retail market. Therefore, the demand for import of GM Soya seeds. About Soy meal and its GM variant Soy meal is left over after oil is extracted from the bean. It is the main protein ingredient in the feed, especially for broilers (any chicken that is bred and raised specifically for meat production). It constitutes 25% of poultry feed and maize constitutes 60%. Roundup Ready Soybeans (RR soybeans) are genetically engineered soybeans that have had their DNA altered to allow them to withstand the herbicide glyphosate (the active ingredient in Monsanto's herbicide Roundup). They are also known as "glyphosate tolerant" soybeans. What is the Status of GM Soyseeds in India? India allows the import of GM soybean and canola oil. Import of GM soya bean seeds has not been approved in India. Concerns: Environmental activists have raised concerns about the permission given for something derived from a genetically modified plant to enter the human food chain because India’s regulatory system has not yet approved GM foods. The Coalition for a GM-Free India, which includes consumer rights groups and sustainable farming groups, termed the decision “highly objectionable and legally untenable (reputable)”. It noted that the 1989 rules of the Environment Protection Act applied not just to GM organisms, but also products and substances thereof. It is also feared that import of GM soya bean will affect the Indian soya bean industry by contaminating non-GM varieties. Do You Know? The only GM crop approved for cultivation in India is BT cotton. Talks are on to allow Htbt Cotton. Bt Cotton has alien genes from the soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) that allows the crop to develop a protein toxic to the common pest pink bollworm. In India, the Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), under Environment Ministry, is the apex body that allows for commercial release of GM crops. Use of the unapproved GM variant can attract a jail term of 5 years and fine of Rs. 1 lakh under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the authorised body to regulate the imported crops in India. Connecting the dots: GM Seeds: The debate & the sowing season World’s First Genetically Modified Rubber: Assam India’s Cotton Story: Part 1 and Part 2 (RSTV Debate) RSTV 3rd Aug 2021: The Big Picture: Changes in general insurance business bill https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V7bxosINH14 ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS-3: Indian Economy & Challenges Changes in general insurance business bill The Union Lok Sabha on Monday passed the General Insurance Business (Nationalization) Amendment Bill, 2021 that seeks to amend the General Insurance Business (Nationalization) Act, 1972. The Act was enacted to nationalize all private companies undertaking general insurance business in India. The Bill seeks to provide for a greater private sector participation in the public sector insurance companies regulated under the Act. The 1972 Act requires that shareholding of the central government in the specified insurers must be at least 51%. The 2021 Amendment Bill removes this provision. Besides, there are certain other amendments as well related to change in the definition of general insurance business, transfer of control from the govt, and liabilities of directors. What is the General Insurance Business (Nationalization) Amendment Bill, 2021? The amendment mainly seeks to remove the requirement of a minimum of 51 per cent shareholding of the government in the four subsidiary companies of the General Insurance Company, which are the National Insurance Company, the New India Assurance Company, the Oriental Insurance Company Limited and the United India Insurance Company. As per the Bill, amendments had become necessary to attract larger private participation in public sector insurance companies, enhance penetration of insurance sector and to provide social protection by securing interests of policyholders. Bill has also changed the definition of general insurance business and transferred the power of appointing majority of directors of specified insurer & power over its management or policy decision from the government. The objectives and reasons for the Bill are to provide for greater private participation in public sector insurance companies, increase insurance access, better the social protection and interests of policyholders, and contribute to the rapid growth of the economy. For this, it became necessary to amend some of the provisions of the Act. Significance of the Bill This bill was passed in line with government’s ambitious privatization agenda. In the budget speech for 2021-2022, finance minister announced privatization drive including two public sector banks and one general insurance company. Accordingly, among four public sector general insurance companies namely, National Insurance Company Limited, Oriental Insurance Company Limited, New India Assurance Company Limited and United India Insurance Company Limited; government will dilute its shareholding in one company name of which is yet to be finalized. The bill seeks at enhancing insurance penetration and social protection and better secure the interests of the policyholders. It also aims at contributing to the faster growth of the economy. Opposition to the Bill The opposition showed concern as the bill seeks to remove the requirement that the Government should not hold less than 51% of equity capital, it also calls for greater private participation in public sector insurance companies. The bill was termed as anti-people and anti-national legislation by the Congress leader Adhir Ranjan Chowdhary, who spoke briefly on the bill amid the protests in Lok Sabha. Its also being said that privatizing decades old institution will lead to concentrating it into hands of capitalist. Transfer of control from the government The Bill provides that the Act will not apply to the specified insurers from the date on which the central government relinquishes control of the insurer. Control means: (i) the power to appoint a majority of directors of a specified insurer, or (ii) to have power over its management or policy decisions. The Act empowers the central government to notify the terms and conditions of service of employees of the specified insurers. The Bill provides that schemes formulated by the central government in this regard will be deemed to have been adopted by the insurer. The board of directors of the insurer may change these schemes or frame new policies. Further, powers of the central government under such schemes (framed under the Act) will be transferred to the board of directors of the insurer. Liabilities of directors The Bill specifies that a director of a specified insurer, who is not a whole-time director, will be held liable only for certain acts. These include acts which have been committed: With his knowledge, attributable through board processes, and With his consent or connivance or where he had not acted diligently. Gaining the trust of people on privatizing Its mindset issue: People have more faith in govt owned companies, who see govt as a savior, but after Private companies come with good ideas eventually people will shift to them. Can you answer this question now? Critically discuss the General Insurance Business (Nationalization) Amendment Bill, 2021. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1 Consider the following statements regarding PM-JAY: PMJAY offers a sum insured of 5 lakh per family for tertiary care only. National Health Agency is the implementing body for the scheme. Select the correct statements: 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2 Consider the following statements: The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC), under Science and Technology Ministry, is the apex body that allows for commercial release of GM crops. Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is the authorised body to regulate the imported crops in India. Select the correct statements: 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Which of the following Schedule of the Constitution deals with Union list, State list and concurrent list? Sixth Schedule Fifth Schedule First Schedule Seventh Schedule ANSWERS FOR 13th August 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 C 3 D Must Read On Inter-State border disputes: Times of India On Human Development Product: Indian Express

Aug 14, 2021 TLP Mains Answer Writing

SYNOPSIS [12th August,2021] Day 154: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE SYNOPSIS [12th August,2021] Day 154: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies) 1. Do you think patriarchy as a dominant social feature has got diluted in the 21st century India? Critically examine. Approach Define the term patriarchy and contextualise to both India and 21st century.Further first argue in what spheres have the patriarchy diluted and then give the empirical evidences to counter the first assumption.In conclusion write an optimistic and hopeful conclusion. Introduction: Patriarchy is a social system in which men hold primary power, predominate in the roles of political leadership, moral authority, special privilege and control of the property. Men are also centre and authoritative figure in the domain of the family. Patriarchy has been one of the dominant features of Indian society from ancient times.The nature and hold of patriarchy over women’s life has changed with time.The 21st century has brought many opportunities among women in social, economic and political spheres for women which were until now restricted to them. Body Patriarchy as a dominant social feature has got diluted in the 21st century India: Women movements have earned many rights to women in India.The movements like Chipko andolan, Anti -arrack movement,Protests against dowry shows how women have embraced the political movements which were not allowed them in previous times. Women’s share in non-traditional employment has increased. 11.7% of India’s pilots are women (global average ~ 3%).Therefore women are not confined to the household works but participates productively in society. Women’s recruitment in combat operation in army has now been planned.This was one of the last frontier which was predominantly male dominated but Supreme court have allowed qualified entry of women in armed forces. Due to nuclear families male and female both have an equal say in the decisions of the home.In traditional society only the ‘Karta’ who was male was the head and took decisions. The choices of clothes especially the reduction in phenomena of ‘Ghoonghat’ and ‘Burkha’ shows how women have been empowered to do away with traditional male formulated guidelines. Increasingly women being educated and empowered are reporting crimes such as rape, sexual harassment, domestic violence, etc which were until now considered a reason for stigmatisation. Women have occupied highest institutions of power such as first femal president Prathiba Patil, First female prime minister Indira Gandhi and varioes women chief ministers who have ruled efficiently and have shown that gender is not a hindrance. Women priests are being appointed in temples.This domain which has remained exclusive domain of mens have also been breached recently with decision of Tamilnadu government to appoint women priests. Women have dominated sports such as in badminton P.V Sindhu won consecutive medals at olympics, Mary Kom has received record eight boxing medals, Sania Mirza has been a successful tennis player.This points towards women taking new roles different from traditional domain. The Bollywood industry which was dominated by male stars and male oriented scripts are now making movies with women as central figure and women issues being highlighted.Movies such as Padman, Toilet, Thappad is indicative of this change. Women’s movements, like #Metoo movement, have been very successful in recent times. There has been support by media and male members of the society. This signals shift in patriarchal mindset. All these steps in family, economy, polity and culture has reduced the hold of patriarchy when compared to medieval and ancient times.But still on many accounts Indian society is male dominated. Patriarchy as a dominant social feature is still intact in the 21st century India A quantitative picture of patriarchy can be gauged by Global Gender Gap Index, in which India ranks 140th /156 in 2021 report.This shows how dismal the performance of India have been to empower women. In Literacy rate female have 65 % literacy rate while Men have 80 % as per 2011 census.This shows how women are facing various obstructions to attain education. In property female in India hardly hold less than 10% of the property titles.Exan when they are half of the population.It shows how systematic patriarchy is not allowing women’s land titles which can give them independent agency. Son meta preference has led to either female foeticide which indicates nagative attiitude towards female.They are still seen as burden , Paraya dhan, which is further exacerbated by traditional systems and rituals of dowry, Kanyadan, Child marriage as an institution is still thriving in India ,especially in rural parts.This reduces body growth of girls,make them anaemic and further leads to improper psychological development Female labour force participation rate ~ 26% (Niti Aayog).This indicates how women are mainly confined to traditional roles of mother, daughter, wife.Further the care giving and child raising is predominantly done by females. Participation in Parliament has remained dismal even after 74 years of Independence.This shows how males have dominated corridors of power from the legislatures to posts of party chiefs. With further globalisation and increase in inequality women have been forced in pornographic industry.Further to satisfy the male gaze the Bollywood has invented’Item Numbers ‘.This objectifies women’s bodies and takes agency away from them. Dowry deaths, honour killings, witch craft killings, stereotyping particular roles of nurses, teachers have had bad effect on overall women empowerment.This shows how patriarchy hold sway even in public sphere. Conclusion Law is a powerful instrument to bring social change however its efficacy is dependent upon the ability to implement the law by state authorities.Therefore there is need for all the stakeholders such as state, civil society, judiciary, corporate sector to implement a comprehensive gender sensitive policy which will bring women in parity with men in all spheres of life in India.This will not only benefit females which constitute half of the population but the whole nation, as B.R Ambedkar has once said that the progress of nation can be gauged by condition of its women. 2. Examine the factors that can be attributed to the rising divorce rates in India. Approach Introduce with how institution of marriage is sacred and then contextualise with the notion of divorce.In next part mention what are the reasons for rise in divorce.In conclusion mention specifically on how divorce is still a very negligible part in India as compared to world. Introduction Marriage is an act of sacrament in India. And, ending this marriage on whatsoever ground is still not considered normal. Yet, in recent decades we can see an increase in the divorce rate in India. The increasing divorce rate is related to various social aspects. The report titled "Progress of the World’s Women 2019-2020 by United Nations : Families in a Changing World" highlighted that rate of divorce has doubled over the past decade in India. Body Women’s independence. The status of women has changed over the years. They are no longer mere housewives. Women today are financially, socially, physically, and mentally independent. This comes in the way of an age-old mentality where women’s only role was to nurture families. Thus when traditionally women’s suffered abuse and violence the new age empowered women are able to end the toxic marriages. Trauma. This includes both, physical and mental trauma. Physical abuse by men on their wives is an age-old problem. We won’t say, there aren’t any cases of physical abuse on men. But generally speaking, women are exploited by their husbands for ages. Domestic violence is a major reason for increasing divorce cases. Mental trauma is less spoken of but it definitely leads to marriage failure. The educated and modern cohort is okay with working women. But they are not okay with shared responsibilities when it comes to household chores. Working women are expected to manage jobs, families, children effectively without any helping hand from husbands. Hence, women walk out of such marriages that are mentally traumatic. Relations with in-laws. Nearly 68% of married couple stays with the parents. As they say, marriage in India is with families. While the families can help sustain a marriage, they also are the root cause of divorce in many cases. The degrading relations within laws often lead to divorce. The most common cause being the relation between mother in law and daughter in law. Dominance. As mentioned earlier, women these days are financially, mentally, physically, and socially independent. Women must have a choice and voice in their relationship. But, dominance still exists. The man of the family still takes all the major decisions. Be it for childcare, spending, relationship, or others. Hence, when a woman feels overpowered they walk out of marriage. The same scenario applies to men. A manipulative hold of wives would often lead to divorce. Modern marriages seek equality. And, when that is not the case, marriages dissolve. Adultery. Affairs outside marriage are quite common. Earlier, women use to let go of their husband’s affairs because they were Dependent on them. Besides, society wasn’t accepting of divorcee women back then. Not much has changed even today. Though, partners these days would mutually end the marriage instead of stretching it. Lack of communication. Many modern marriages fail just because both the partner grows distant with time. Daily life takes a toll on the quality of marriage. Communication stops and instead of resolving the issues, partners end the marriage. As they say, communication is more important than love in marriage. Those who know it, preserve it. Infertility Many marriages end in divorce due to infertility of either couples. Conclusion India’s divorce rate stood at 1% in 2020, according to a report from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. While the absolute number of divorces has gone up from 1 in 1,000 to 13 in 1,000 over the last decade or so, India still remains at the top of the list of countries with the lowest divorce rates.Therefore even tough the rate is increasing in absolute numbers the traditional Indian family system is still resilient and thriving. 3. Do you think the 1991 reforms missed banking and finance? What reforms would you recommend to fill the gaps? Discuss. Approach Mention what is economic reform and contextualise to demand of the question on how banking and finance were left out in 1991 reforms.In next part write how has this neglect affected India.In last part write what kind of reforms are needed and are being announced by government recently.MaKe a summary oriented conclusion Introduction The term ‘economic reform’ typically denotes the removal of restrictions that governments impose on economic activity.In India this was done in 1990s to obtain a qualified loan from IMF and to revive Indian economy.India’s liberalisation of trade and industry in 1991 was a serious reform that gave spurt to growth. But it was fundamentally incomplete as it left the most critical aspect of banking out of its fold. Body Economic reforms of 1991 The economic reforms started in India in 1991, were primarily meant a removal of restrictions on sections of the economy, like on industry. Until 1991, a firm could not produce in India unless a specific license was obtained by it for that particular good, and for the quantity it could produce. In trade no one could import goods and services unless they obtained a license from the Ministry of Commerce for — the product, the quantity, and the import destination. These restrictions, which did not permit people to start producing something if they wished to, even if they followed all the laws and regulations such as those pertaining to labour or pollution, were based on the government’s estimates of how much it thought a certain amount of the product ought to be produced. The restrictions clearly meant that these additional cars would not be produced, jobs would not be created, investment would not happen and exports would not take place. Liberalisation in 1991 changed that ‘licence raj’ by simply removing the restriction that you could not produce without permit. Lack of Banking reforms and its impact The restriction on banking that only the government could own banks continued even after July 1991. This led to limitations on new entrepreneurs in having access to resources. The pool of capital that banks were able to mobilise remained limited due to the mobilisation capacity of public sector banks.This was a bit like telling the industry that only existing industries could expand more. This had clearly not worked as the inefficiency built into existing factors didn’t go away simply because they were allowed to produce more. The lack of innovation and low productivity had continued. With the entry of new banks restricted even after 1991, resource mobilisation remained limited. This hit the potential newcomers most. Existing banks had a preference for their traditional customers, further helping the incumbents to borrow more. They were also already better off because they could raise money in stock markets by selling their shares. When foreign investors were allowed into India later, they could buy these shares and so existing large Indian companies were able to raise both domestic and foreign equity. Even when foreign direct investment (FDI) was allowed, government regulation mostly allowed foreigners to invest in joint ventures (JVs) with Indian companies, and later if they wanted to set up another venture independently, or with another Indian company, they needed permission of the original Indian JV partner. All these came together to work well for existing companies. The restrictions on Indian finance, FDI policy and restrictions on banking continued to tilt the balance in favour of the same companies that had dominated India for a long time. While some old private banks existed, they were very small. Some new private banks were allowed later, but the sector was largely PSU dominated and continued working with the mindset of central planning. The culture of pleasing bosses coupled with little competence or incentives to push for lending to new and innovative projects didn’t change. Banking regulator Reserve Bank of India and the government too continued with the old central planning system in banking by telling banks to lend a certain percentage to “priority sectors”, as defined by the government, and another certain percentage to the government and so on Reforms needed in Banking and finance: Big Banks The Narasimham Committee Report (1991), emphasised that India should have three or four large commercial banks, with domestic and international presence, along with foreign banks. The second tier may comprise several mid-size lenders, including niche banks, with economy-wide presence. In accordance with these recommendations, the government has already merged a few PSBs, initiated steps towards setting up of DFI, Bad Bank, etc. Need for Differentiated Banks Though the universal banking model has been widely preferred, there is a need for niche banking to cater to the specific and varied requirements of different customers and borrowers. Essentially, these specialised banks would ease the access to finance in areas such as RAM (retail, agriculture, MSMEs). Further, the proposed DFI/niche banks may be established as specialised banks to have access to low-cost public deposits and for better asset-liability management. Blockchain Banking Risk management can be more specific and the neo-banks can leverage the technology to further (digital) financial inclusion and finance higher growth of aspirational/new India. In this context, technologies like Blockchain can be implemented in Indian Banking. Blockchain technology will allow prudential supervision and control over the banks may be easier. Mitigating Moral Hazard Till date, failure of public sector banks has been a rare phenomenon and the hidden sovereign guarantee is the main reason for superior public confidence in the banks. However, with the privatisation drive of PSBs, this may not be always true. Therefore, fifth generation banking reforms should focus on the need for higher individual deposit insurance and effective orderly resolution regimes to mitigate moral hazard and systemic risks with least cost to the public exchequer. ESG Framework Differentiated Banks also may be encouraged to get listed on a recognised stock exchange and adhere to ESG (Environment, Social Responsibility, and Governance) framework to create value for their stakeholders in the long run. Empowering Banks The government should tighten the loose ends by allowing them to build diversified loan portfolios, establishing sector-wise regulators, bestowing more powers to deal effectively with wilful defaulters. There is also a need to pave the way for the corporate bond market (shift from bank-led economy) to create a responsive banking system in a dynamic real economy. Conclusion Present scenario calls for a paradigm shift in the banking sector to improve its resilience and maintain financial stability. In this context, the government has recently announced new banking reforms, involving the establishment of a Development Finance Institution (DFI) for infrastructure, creation of a Bad Bank, and privatisation of public sector banks (PSBs) to ease its burden in terms of mobilising additional capital.This with governance reforms will go a long way to fill the void left by banking reforms in 1991. TLP Synopsis Day 154 PDF

Aug 14, 2021 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 14th August 2021

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 13, 2021 Important Articles

[OFFICIAL ANNOUNCEMENT] UPSC PRELIMS 2022 Exam to be on 5th June, 2022

Dear Students UPSC has come out with the Annual Calendar for the Year 2022. UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2022, and Indian Forest Service (Preliminary) Examination, 2022 will be held on 5th June 2022. Civil Services (Main) Examination, 2022 will start from 16th September 2022. Indian Forest Service (Main) Examination, 2022 will start from 20th November 2022. You can access the UPSC Annual Calendar 2022 - CLICK HERE There are less than 10 months left for the Prelims Exam. So, gear up and start working towards your goals. IASbaba has come out with multiple programmes to ease and aid your preparation! Baba's Foundation Course (Baba's FC) 2022 - CLICK HERE Integrated Learning Programm (ILP) 2022 - CLICK HERE इंटीग्रेटेड लर्निंग प्रोग्राम (ILP) 2022 in हिंदी - CLICK HERE If you have any queries E-MAIL: support@iasbaba.com and ilp@iasbaba.com CONTACT: +91 91691 91888

Aug 13, 2021 हिन्दी Initiatives

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प्रिय अभ्यर्थियों आशा है कि आप और आपका परिवार कुशल एवं सुरक्षित होगा। आईएलपी (ILP)2022 - यूपीएससी अभ्यर्थियों के लिए सबसे व्यापक ऑनलाइन कार्यक्रम जो परीक्षा के सभी चरणों (प्रारंभिक, मुख्य परीक्षा और साक्षात्कार) को कवर करता है, 22 अगस्त (22nd August) से आरंभ हो रहा है। यदि आप एक ईमानदार अभ्यर्थी हैं और यूपीएससी परीक्षा - 2022 को गंभीरता से लक्ष्य बना रखा है, तो आईएलपी (ILP) 2022 सामान्य अध्ययन ( प्रारंभिक, मुख्य परीक्षा) की आवश्यकताओं के लिए वन-स्टॉप डेस्टिनेशन साबित होगा। व्यापक कार्यक्रम - प्रारंभिक परीक्षा एवं मुख्य परीक्षा पाठ्यक्रम, साक्षात्कार को एकीकृत रूप से कवर करने हेतु विस्तृत अध्ययन योजना (≈ 1 वर्ष) दैनिक लक्ष्य/योजना के साथ VALUE ADD NOTES (VAN) – मुख्य परीक्षा + प्रारंभिक परीक्षा BABAPEDIA - समसामयिकी/ करंट अफेयर्स की तैयारी के लिए वन-स्टॉप डेस्टिनेशन MAINSPEDIA - मुख्य परीक्षा संबंधी समसामयिकी (GS1, GS2, GS3, GS4 और निबंध)PRELIMSPEDIA - प्रारंभिक परीक्षा संबंधी समसामयिकी BABA’s PRELIMS TEST SERIES (PT) कुल प्रीलिम्स टेस्ट - 63 करेंट अफेयर्स टेस्ट - 22 (50 प्रश्न)मॉड्यूल आधारित टेस्ट - 17 (100 प्रश्न)विषयवार रिवीज़न टेस्ट - 6 (100 प्रश्न)विशिष्ट विषय संबंधी टेस्ट (मानचित्र आधारित, आर्थिक सर्वेक्षण और बजट, सरकारी योजनाएं और नीतियां) - 3 (100 प्रश्न)FULL LENGTH TESTS - 5 (100 प्रश्न)CSAT FULL LENGTH TESTS - 10 (80 प्रश्न)आल इंडिया रैंकिंगस्व-मूल्यांकन प्रणाली (SELF-ASSESSMENT SYSTEM) मुख्य परीक्षा और SYNOPSIS कुल मुख्य परीक्षा मॉक टेस्ट- 66 मॉड्यूल आधारित टेस्ट - 24 टेस्ट (10 प्रश्न)करेंट अफेयर्स टेस्ट - 22 टेस्ट (10 प्रश्न)FULL LENGTH TESTS - 10 टेस्ट (GS1, GS2, GS3, GS4, निबंध - 2 चक्र)निबंध - 10 टेस्ट GS मुख्य परीक्षा के लिए MIND MAPS निबंध मार्गदर्शन विषयवार निर्देशात्मक वीडियोमॉडल निबंध/ सर्वोत्तम मूल्यांकन निबंध उत्तर प्रतियां/ टॉपर प्रतियांमेन्सपीडिया सामग्री STUDENTS FORUM (ILP का सोशल मीडिया) – एक मंच, जहाँ आप USPC तैयारी के संबंध में अपने संदेह / प्रश्नों का समाधान पा सकते हैं। इसमें एक सहभागी-प्रणाली भी शामिल है, जिसमें समान वैकल्पिक विषय, कॉलेज या पृष्ठभूमि वाले छात्र ग्रुप बना सकते हैं तथा विचार-विमर्श कर सकते हैं! यह न केवल आपको एक अच्छा सहभागी-समूह / अध्ययन मंडली बनाने में सहायता करेगा, बल्कि एक-दूसरे को अपने लक्ष्यों को प्राप्त करने के लिए प्रेरित भी करेगा। इसमें आप यूएसपीसी की तैयारी के संबंध में IASbaba टीम की सहायता से अपनी शंकाओं/प्रश्नों का समाधान कर सकते हैं। ILP 2022 'न केवल एक टेस्ट सीरीज़' है, बल्कि यह उससे कहीं अधिक है, जो इसे UPSC-CSE 2022 के लिए वन-स्टॉप डेस्टिनेशन बनाता है। विस्तृत विवरण के लिए दिए गए लिंक पर क्लिक करें Payment Details ILP 2022 (Hindi) - ENROL NOW ILP 2022 with Mentorship (Hindi) - ENROL NOW Contact Us If you have any queries/issues/doubts with respect to ILP 2022 (Hindi), please Email: ilp@iasbaba.com Call: 9911778098 Thank You! IASBaba

Aug 13, 2021 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 13th August 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) World Elephant Day Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III - Environment; Conservation The World Elephant Day is celebrated on 12th August every year to spread awareness for the conservation and protection of the largest mammal on land. The day was launched in 2012 to bring attention to the urgent plight of Asian and African elephants. Asian Elephants: There are three subspecies of Asian elephant which are the Indian, Sumatran and Sri Lankan. Global Population: Estimated 20,000 to 40,000. More than 60% of the world’s elephant population is in India. IUCN Red List Status: Endangered. Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I. African Elephants: There are two subspecies of African elephants, the Savanna (or bush) elephant and the Forest elephant. Concerns: Escalation of poaching. Habitat loss. Human-elephant conflict. Mistreatment in captivity. Abuse due to elephant tourism. Steps Taken by India for Conservation Gaj Yatra which is a nationwide awareness campaign to celebrate elephants and highlight the necessity of securing elephant corridors. The Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants (MIKE) programme, launched in 2003, is an international collaboration that tracks trends in information related to the illegal killing of elephants from across Africa and Asia, to monitor effectiveness of field conservation efforts. Project Elephant: It is a centrally sponsored scheme and was launched in February 1992 for the protection of elephants, their habitats and corridors. Elephant Information Network (EIN) Has enabled human-elephant coexistence in southern India Acts as an early warning mechanism to alert people when elephants are nearby, minimizing negative human-elephant interactions, and increasing people’s tolerance towards elephants. By Mr. Ananda Kumar News Source: TH GSLV-F10 Failure Part of: GS Prelims and GS - II - International relations; Health In news A technical anomaly prevented the ignition of the GSLV-F10 rocket’s cryogenic upper stage and ISRO could not accomplish the mission to launch earth observation satellite EOS-03 into the intended orbit. About EOS-03 EOS-03, intended to be positioned in the geostationary transfer orbit initially, was supposed to reach the final geostationary orbit. It was expected to provide near real-time imaging of a large area of interest at frequent intervals, which could be used for quick monitoring of natural disasters, episodic events and any short-term events. The mission life of the satellite was 10 years. GSLV-F10 was ISRO’s eighth flight with indigenous cryoengine. While the first stage of the GSLV is solid fuel, the second is liquid fuel and the third the cryogenic engine. Cryogenic rocket engine uses a cryogenic fuel and oxidizer, i.e. both its fuel and oxidizer are gases liquefied and stored at very low temperatures. News Source: TH AL – Mohed AL – Hindi: India & Saudi Arabia Naval Exercise Part of: Prelims and GS - III - International Relations In news Maiden bilateral naval exercise ‘AL – Mohed AL – Hindi’ between India and Saudi Arabia got under way on 12th August off the coast of Al Jubail. Indian Navy participated with its indigenously built stealth destroyer Kochi with two integral Sea King helicopters. It saw the two navies undertake co-ordinated action against asymmetric threat, replenishment at sea procedures, anti-piracy and boarding operations, weapon targeting drills etc. to enhance synergy and interoperability between the two navies. News Source: TH Vacancies in Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III - Dispute Redressal Mechanism In news Recently, the Supreme Court, has expressed displeasure over delay in filling up vacancies in the National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission and State Consumer Disputes Redressal Commissions. It directed the centre and states to complete the process within eight weeks. The Court also asked the Centre to submit a report on legislative impact study on Consumer Protection Act, 2019 in four weeks time. Legislative Impact Study or Assessment is the study of the impact of a law (being made and enforced) on the society over a period of time. About National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission The National Consumer Disputes Redressal Commission (NCDRC) is a quasi-judicial commission in India which was set up in 1988 under the Consumer Protection Act of 1986. Its head office is in New Delhi. The commission is headed by a sitting or retired judge of the Supreme Court of India. The Consumer Protection Act of 1986 provided for a three-tier consumer dispute redressal machinery at the National (NCDRC), State and District levels. The Consumer Protection Act, 2019 establishes the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) whose primary objective will be to promote, protect and enforce the rights of consumers. News Source: IE International Baccalaureate Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II - Education In news Recently, the Delhi Board of School Education (DBSE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with International Baccalaureate (IB) to implement IB programmes in 30 government schools, including 20 of its new Schools of Specialised Excellence in 2021. With the signing of this MoU, government school students will get access to international level of educational facilities. Students of these schools will be issued joint certification by the IB and the Delhi board when they complete schooling. About International Baccalaureate (IB) It is a worldwide, non-profit education program founded to give to students aged 3 to 19 the opportunity to receive an education fit for a globalizing world. Its Foundation Office is in Geneva (Switzerland). It emphasizes personal student development as one of its main achievements. There are four IB education programs, all of which are intended to develop students’ intellectual, emotional, personal and social skills. It has around 5,000 schools globally. There are currently 193 IB schools in India, all of which are top-end elite private schools. News Source: IE (News from PIB) Installed Renewable Energy Capacity Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II - Education The total installed renewable energy capacity in India, excluding large hydro, has crossed the mile-stone of 100 GW. If large hydro is included the installed RE capacity increases to 146 GW. Another 50 GW is under installation and 27 GW is under tendering Currently, India stands at 4th position in the world in terms of installed RE capacity, 5th in solar and 4th in wind in terms of installed capacity. India has also enhanced its ambition to install 450 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030. India’s Paris Climate Goals In 2015, ahead of the UN significant climate conference in Paris, India announced three major voluntary commitments called the Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC): Improving the emissions intensity of its GDP by 33–35% by 2030 over 2005 levels Increasing the share of non-fossil fuels-based electricity to 40% by 2030. Enhancing its forest cover, thereby absorbing 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide Source: PIB Common Survey to Count Elephants and Tigers Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III - Environment; Conservation In news From December, India will move to a system that will count tigers and elephants as part of a common survey. The announcement was made on 12th August which is celebrated as World Elephant Day. The tiger survey is usually held once in four years and elephants are counted once in five years. How are the Tiger and elephant numbers estimated till now? Since 2006, the Wildlife Institute of India (WII), Dehradun, which is affiliated to the Environment Ministry, has a standardised protocol in place which is used by States to estimate tiger numbers. Based on sightings in camera traps and indirect estimation methods, tiger numbers are computed. Elephant numbers largely rely on States directly counting the number of elephants. In recent years, techniques such as analysing dung samples have also been deployed to estimate birth rates and population trends in elephants. There were 2,997 tigers (2018-19 survey) and 29,964 elephants (2017 survey) in India. Need for common survey Given that 90% of the area occupied by elephants and tigers is common, and once estimation methods are standardised, having a common survey can significantly save costs. Source: PIB (Mains Focus) GOVERNANCE/ ECONOMY GS-3: Awareness in the fields of IT GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. E-RUPI & Governance In news: Recently launched by the PM Modi, e-RUPI is a digital prepaid, purpose- and person-specific payment utility. How will e-RUPI work? e-RUPI is basically a digital voucher which a beneficiary gets on his phone in the form of an SMS or QR code. It is a pre-paid voucher, which he/she can go and redeem it at any centre that accepts its. For example, if the Government wants to cover a particular treatment of an employee in a specified hospital, it can issue an e-RUPI voucher for the determined amount through a partner bank. The employee will receive an SMS or a QR Code on his feature phone / smart phone. He/she can go to the specified hospital, avail of the services and pay through the e-RUPI voucher received on his phone. e-RUPI will connect the sponsors of the services (govt) with the beneficiaries (BPL Card holder) and service providers (hospitals) in a digital manner without any physical interface. Thus e-RUPI is a one-time contactless, cashless voucher-based mode of payment that helps users redeem the voucher without a card, digital payments app, or internet banking access. The system has been built by National Payments Corporation of India on its UPI platform, and has onboarded banks that will be the issuing entities. e-RUPI’s Application in Vaccination Its immediate and first-use case can be to facilitate cashless service at paid Covid vaccination centres (CVCs). For instance, corporates and philanthropies can buy services in bulk to vaccinate employees and those in need. The intended beneficiaries will receive an SMS or QR code on their feature/smartphone, redeemable for cashless vaccination at participating centres. e-RUPI’s Application in PDS The inefficiency of the programme is rooted in high overhead costs, leakages, exclusion and inefficiencies. A food-specific e-RUPI voucher will allow beneficiaries to buy rations from an outlet of their choice. e-RUPI could make the PDS programme more efficient. One Nation, One Ration Card has the potential to make the redemption of the voucher at market price by merchants within and outside the PDS network. e-RUPI’s Application in Fertilizer Subsidy e-RUPI will enable farmers to buy fertiliser at nominal prices with direct credit of the subsidy amount into the account of the authorised dealers. e-RUPI’s Application in Education Identified students receive vouchers to pay school fees and expenses at empanelled institutions of their choice, public and private, which compete to get full fee-paying students. The resultant option and competition benefits students and schools while enhancing transparency and accountability. e-RUPI’s Application in Ayushman Bharat healthcare initiative. Identified beneficiaries will receive e-RUPI vouchers of designated value tenable at empanelled healthcare facilities, providing them portability and facility choice. The service provider will benefit from the immediate payment. Significance of e-RUPI Benefits to Consumers: e-RUPI does not require the beneficiary to have a bank account, a major distinguishing feature as compared to other digital payment forms. It ensures an easy, contactless two-step redemption process that does not require sharing of personal details either. Another advantage is that e-RUPI is operable on basic phones also, and hence it can be used by persons who do not own smart-phones or in places that lack internet connection. Benefits to Sponsors: e-RUPI is expected to play a major role in strengthening Direct-Benefit Transfer and making it more transparent. Since, there is no need for physical issuance of vouchers, it will also lead to some cost savings as well. Benefits to Service Provider: Being a prepaid voucher, e-RUPI would assure real time payments to the service provider. Huge Potential: Built on the UPI platform, e-RUPI is easy to scale by the issuer. In the days to come the user base of e-RUPI is expected to widen, with even private sector using it to disburse non-cash benefits to employees and support focussed CSR programmes. MSMEs can adopt it for Business to Business (B2B) transactions. Later, individuals could use it for gifting. Enhances efficiency of Governance Delivery: It can bring ease and simplicity of UPI to government welfare measures. As a one-to-many payments facilitator, it will help the government sharpen targeted welfare programmes. Way Ahead The adoption of e-RUPI in various government programmes will enhance business efficiency, simplicity, transparency, and accountability in these programmes. Making the distribution and acceptance of e-RUPI incentive-compatible is recommended, as demonstrated by the popularisation of Aadhar for multiple governance initiatives. Light regulation and the opening of e-RUPI to competition will spur innovation and adoption. All banks, small and big, NBFCs, non-bank PPI issuers, and telcos may be allowed to issue it later Connecting the dots: China’s Digital Currency Cryptocurrency and RBI Blockchain Technology RIGHTS/ JUDICIARY GS-2: Fundamental Rights GS-2: Judiciary & its role. Public Interest & Restriction on Free Speech In news: In a recent decision, a division bench in the Bombay high court introduced an additional restriction to the fundamental right to free speech and expression under Article 19(1)(a). What is the background of the case? The matter involved nine petitions that challenged Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) regulations in broadcasting. The thrust of the petitioners’ argument was that TRAI’s economic regulations restrict the circulation of broadcaster programming, violating the broadcaster’s right to disseminate and consumer’s right to receive information, both of which are core components of the right to free speech. The Bombay high court upheld TRAI’s economic regulations and held that “public interest” serves as an additional ground on which the State may issue diktats to restrict free speech. The Bombay High Court Judgement is being criticised on three counts. Judicial Overreach Additional restriction on Free Speech is supposed to have been introduced by Parliament through Constitutional Amendment to Article 19(2) Through this judgement, the high court overstepped its jurisdiction and stepped onto turf reserved for democratically elected legislators. A primary duty of the judiciary is to interpret laws, not create them. Encourages more interference by State Public interest is a fluid construct in Indian legal parlance, it is not defined, and it finds mention across a host of statutes, often justifying the more non-transparent elements of governance. By reading in a vague notion such as public interest as a valid restriction on free speech in broadcasting, the court paved the way for greater State interference in television content, particularly news It is alleged that High Court failed to uphold the rights of citizens and operate as a check against abuses of State power. Against Judicial Precedence set by Supreme Court The Bombay high court did not adhere to the judicial precedent on the matter of reading public interest as an implicit restriction on free speech. The Supreme Court has remained mindful of the political dimensions of public interest and what might result if it allowed the State to restrict free speech on this ground. While the right to free speech in India is not absolute and comes with certain restrictions listed under Article 19(2) of the Constitution, public interest never operated as a legitimate restriction on it. Also, courts do not permit its entry as an implicit restriction on Article 19(1)(a). Do You Know? In Indian Express Newspapers vs. Union of India, SC observed that the framers of the Constitution purposefully omitted public interest from 19(2) to ensure that the State did not hold the right to free speech ransom when it wished to impose excessive burdens on the press. Conclusion The Bombay high court, with due respect, usurped the jurisdiction of the legislature, failed to uphold press freedom on television, and disregarded for the precedent set down by higher courts. The order merits wider discussion and a review. Connecting the dots: Shreya Singhal Judgement Social Media Code On regulation of Digital media (Sudarshan TV Case) (RSTV Debate) RSTV 30 July, 2021: The Big Picture: Quota for OBC & EWS reservation in medical education https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c2Y1e1Ux3us EDUCATION/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education, Human Resources GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Quota for OBC & EWS reservation in medical education The Union Health Ministry has announced 27% reservation for the OBCs (Other Backward Classes) and 10% quota for the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) in the all-India quota (AIQ) scheme for undergraduate and postgraduate medical and dental courses from 2021-22. What is NEET? The National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) is the entrance examination for entry to all undergraduate (NEET-UG) and postgraduate (NEET-PG) medical and dental courses in the country. What is the All-India Quota Scheme (AIQ) The All-India Quota (AIQ) Scheme was introduced in 1986 under the directions of the Supreme Court to provide for domicile-free merit-based opportunities to students from any State to aspire to study in a good medical college located in another State. A student domiciled in Uttar Pradesh, for example, may be eligible for admission to a seat in a state government medical college in West Bengal, provided she scores high enough in the national merit list. If her score is not high enough for AIQ, she may still hope for admission under the state quota in her home state. AIQ consists of 15 per cent of total available UG seats and 50 per cent of total available PG seats in State medical and dental colleges. Significance of the move: The above decision is the reflection of the Government’s commitment to provide due reservation for backward and EWS category students. This would benefit nearly 1,500 OBC students in MBBS and 2,500 OBC students in postgraduate courses, and also around 550 EWS students in MBBS and around 1,000 EWS students in postgraduation. This will immensely help thousands of our youth every year get better opportunities and create a new paradigm of social justice in our country. The Reservation Policy followed so far and the change now Until 2007, no reservation was implemented within the All-India Quota for medical admission. On January 31, 2007, in Abhay Nath v University of Delhi and Others, the Supreme Court directed that reservation of 15% for Scheduled Castes and 7.5% for Scheduled Tribes be introduced in the AIQ. The same year, the government passed the Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Admission) Act, 2007 providing for 27% reservation to OBC students in central government institutions such as AMU, BHU, etc. but it wasn’t extended to all India quota seats of state medical and dental colleges. The 10% EWS quota under the Constitution (One Hundred and Third Amendment) Act, 2019, too, has been implemented in central educational Institutions, but not in the NEET AIQ for state institutions. In order to provide benefit to students belonging to EWS category in admission to higher educational Institutions, a Constitutional amendment was made in 2019 which enabled the provision of 10% reservation for EWS category. Accordingly, seats in medical / dental colleges were increased over two years in 2019-20 and 2020-21 to accommodate this additional 10% EWS reservation so that the total number of seats available for unreserved category do not reduce. In the AIQ seats, however, this benefit had not been extended so far. The Government initiatives in improving the health system of India: This particular pandemic has taught us many issues with the health system of our country. It has highlighted that good infrastructure is as important as the good institution so that we do have a trained manpower when we are talking of the health sector. The Steps taken by the government to ensure good infrastructure and quality medical education is imparted to the talent includes: Entry should be standardized: Government introduced NEET (single standardized exam) to deal with this problem. This will ensure entry of quality medical students. Second step that the government is proposing is that the national medical commission to start with NEXT exam that is the exit exam. This is most likely to start from 2023 that will ensure that every student should pass common exit exam before getting the license. This will ensure good quality of talent passing out of college. Can you answer this question now? Discuss the reforms in medical education. Also illustrate the government’s efforts in improving the health system of India. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1 Which of the following is not correct? The World Elephant day was launched in 2012 to bring attention to the urgent plight of Asian elephants only. The Monitoring the Illegal Killing of Elephants (MIKE) programme, launched in 2003, is an international collaboration that tracks trends in information related to the illegal killing of elephants. Project Elephant is a centrally sponsored scheme. More than 60% of the world’s elephant population is in India Q.2 Consider the following statements: While the first stage of the GSLV is solid fuel, the second is liquid fuel and the third the cryogenic engine. Cryogenic fuels are fuels that require storage at extremely low temperatures in order to maintain them in a liquid state. Select the correct statements: 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Maiden bilateral naval exercise ‘AL – Mohed AL – Hindi’ is being held between which of the following countries? India and Oman India and Bangladesh India and UAE India and Saudi Arabia ANSWERS FOR 12th August 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 D 3 C Must Read On various shades of Intolerance: The Hindu On decline of Parliament: Indian Express On Criminalisation of Politics: Indian Express

Aug 13, 2021 Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series for UPSC

[Day 75]: UPSC PRELIMS 2021- Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series

Highlights/Features of Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series: It is a FREE initiative! Program Duration - 120 Days (31st May, 2021 to 27th September, 2021). 1. Dedicated Portal for Focused Preparation There will be a separate dedicated portal to help you stay focused and keep your preparation streamlined for the next 120 Days. The Registration link for the dedicated portal is given at the end of the post. 2. 120 Days Integrated (Prelims + Mains) Time Table This year’s RaRe Series will include Integrated Revision Plan (IRP) where we will be syncing your mains and prelims syllabus together over next 120 Days. The Revision Plan is designed by integrating IASbaba's famous flagship initiatives - 60 Day Plan and TLP Mains Answer Writing. 3. Daily RaRe Series (RRS) Videos on High Probable Topics (Monday - Friday) In video discussions, special focus is given to topics which have high probability to appear in UPSC Prelims Question Paper. Each session will be of 20 mins to 30 mins, which would cover rapid revision of 10 high probable topics (both static and current affairs) important for Prelims Exam this year according to the schedule. 4. Daily Prelims MCQs from Static (Monday - Friday) Daily Static Quiz will cover all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology. 10 questions will be posted daily and these questions are framed from the topics mentioned in the schedule and in the RaRe videos. It will ensure timely and streamlined revision of your static subjects. Note: Should be integrated with the 60 Days Plan 2021. This will expose you to diverse questions from the same topics. 5. Daily Current Affairs MCQs (Monday - Saturday) Daily 5 Current Affairs questions, based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, would be published from Monday to Saturday. Note: Current Affairs questions covered in the 60 Days Plan and Daily Quiz Monthly Compilations should be covered retrospectively. 6. Daily CSAT Quiz (Monday - Friday) CSAT has been an achilles heel for many aspirants. Daily 5 CSAT Questions will be published. 7. Daily Mains Answer Writing (Monday - Friday) GS Mains will be covered along with Prelims in an integrated manner. Daily three Mains questions will be covered syllabus-wise according to the topics mentioned in the schedule. In total, it covers 250+ Mains Questions along with synopsis. 8. Brainstorming on Ethics & Essay (BEE) (Saturday & Sunday) Each week, Sunil Oberoi Sir (Retd. IAS) will take 3 sessions, two for Essay and one for Ethics. The two sessions earmarked for Essay will have a topic-based discussion where he will discuss the approach to write issue-based and philosophical essays. The topics will be picked from previous year question papers of UPSC and TLP initiative of IASbaba. 9. Full Mocks 3 GS Paper 1 Full Mocks will be provided along the lines of UPSC Prelims. 3 CSAT Paper 2 Full Mocks will be provided so that you are not overwhelmed during the D-Day. 10. Rapid Revision (RaRe) Notes Right material plays important role in clearing the exam and Rapid Revision (RaRe) Notes will have Prelims specific subject-wise refined notes. The main objective is to help students revise most important topics and that too within a very short limited time frame. Day-75 of RaRe Series - Click here To Register - Click here For complete details of the RaRe Series - Click here

Aug 13, 2021 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

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