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Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 21st JULY 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

[Day 51]: 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-51 of RaRe Series - Click here To Register - Click here For complete details of the RaRe Series -  Click here

[Day 50]: 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-50 of RaRe Series - Click here To Register - Click here For complete details of the RaRe Series -  Click here

SYNOPSIS [19th JULY,2021] Day 136: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE   SYNOPSIS [19th JULY,2021] Day 136: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. Examine the complexities that were involved in the integration of princely states into the Indian territory. How were these complexities addressed by the contemporary leadership? Discuss.   Approach  Give an introduction about the importance of princely states at the time of independence and why it was important to integrate those. The body should include issues involved in integration and how these were resolved. Give a brief conclusion. Introduction British India was divided in into British India Provinces and Princely States, which were large and small states ruled by Princes under control of British Supremacy. Independence resulted in more than princely states spread throughout the length and breadth of the country and comprising 48% of the total area and 28% of the population. Body To ensure the unity and maintain sovereignty of the nation, it was essential to integration these small territories into the Indian union. Complexities involved in integration of princely states : The complexities involved were two fold: transforming the states into viable administrative units and absorbing them into the constitutional units. The Indian Independence Act of 1947 gave princely states an option to accede to the newly born dominions India or Pakistan or continue as an independent sovereign state. Bhopal, Travancore and Hyderabad announced that they did not intend to join either dominion. Hyderabad went as far as to appoint trade representatives in European countries and commencing negotiations with the Portuguese to lease or buy Goa to give it access to the sea, and Travancore pointed to the strategic importance to western countries of its thorium reserves while asking for recognition. Few states with Muslim rulers wanted to join Pakistan. However, Hindu population was against such decision and wanted to join the Indian dominion. For example, Junagarh, which had a Muslim ruler Mahabhat Khan and over 80% Hindu population acceded to Pakistan.  Kashmir had a Hindu prince and a Muslim majority population. The prince envisaged a sovereign status for the state and was reluctant to accede to either India or Pakistan. Administrative issues were present as different states followed different administrative methods. The princes feared that the Congress would be hostile to the princely order, attacking their property and, indeed, their civil liberties, given the socialist tendencies of most of the Congress members. Sardar Patel and V.P. Menon took over this herculean task. The Instrument of Accession was the official treaty to be signed between the Government of India and the accession candidates. As per the treaty, Government of India would control only foreign affairs, defence and communications, leaving all internal issues to be administered by the states. Patel and Menon also guaranteed that monarchs who signed on willingly would be retained as constitutional heads of state, although they would be 'encouraged' to hand their power over to an elected government.  Complexities in integration were addressed by: Administrative innovation- Incorporated smaller states into contiguous provinces and listed in Part A-Orissa, Chhattisgarh, and Gujarat. Made some states as centrally administered for strategic or special reason listed in Part С- Himachal Pradesh, Manipur etc. Created five Unions namely, Rajasthan, Patiala and East Punjab States Union etc. Persuasion- Patel assured the monarchs of the states that after acceding to India, they would be allowed to retain their property and estates. Further, they would be fully eligible to run for public office. For the loss of income (from revenue), the monarchs would be compensated with a privy purse. For example, Mysore, Jodhpur were assured of enough trade routes and ports for its trading rights helped integrate them. Diplomacy -When Junagadh joined hands with Pakistan, India cuts of all essential supplies and transportation lines to the state. Patel had even instigated the vassals and the chiefs to revolt against the Nawab. Finally plebiscite occurred in which approximately 99% of the people chose India over Pakistan.  In the aftermath of attack on Kashmir by the tribals, since Kashmir had not signed the instrument of accession till then, Maharaja Hari Singh appealed India for help and India put down the condition that only after the signing of the accession possible help could be rendered. Bhopal was also closely won over diplomatically by Patel. Force- Operation Polo and Caterpillar were launched to forcefully integrate Hyderabad. Indian naval forces were the first to reach the Karawati base in Lakshadweep to assimilate it in Indian territory. Integration of Goa also came through use of force as the Portuguese revolted . Conclusion Overall with skilful diplomacy, persuasion and timely use of force, India was able to integrate all the princely states in its territory to integrate with India within few years of Independence. India was able to use better mechanisms through democratic centralised credentials of Indian state for better integration of states thereby bringing in a sense of unity among various states which is ever strong after all these years since independence. 2. The commitment of the founding fathers of the Constitution towards protecting the rights of religious minorities in India can be considered as the stepping stone towards a secular India. Elucidate.  Approach  Introduction can be about who all are religious minorities or status of religious minorities in India. In body write how constitution makers ensured the protection of religious minorities (by giving them some rights) and how it helped in making the country secular. Give a brief conclusion. Introduction The Indian Constitution is committed both to the idea of equality and to the preservation, protection and assurance of rights of minorities.These principles were embedded in the constitution as the rights for religious minorities were long accepted demands in the freedom struggle of India.Five religious communities such as Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists and Zoroastrians (Parsis) have been recognised as minority communities under Section 2(c) of the National Commission for Minorities Act, 1992. Body Thoughts of the founding fathers on minorities rights: The founding fathers very well understood that, in pluralistic society rights of minorities and weaker sections need to be safeguarded.  The іdea of gіvіng some specіal rіght to the mіnorіtіes іs not to treat them as prіvіleged sectіon of the populatіon but to gіve to the mіnorіtіes a sense of securіty. Specіal rіghts for mіnorіtіes were desіgned not to create іnequalіtіes but to brіng about equalіty by ensuring the preservation of the mіnorіty іnstіtutіons and by guaranteeing autonomy іn the matter of admіnіstratіon of these іnstіtutіons.  It was also necessary in case of India as the nation was still struggling to come out of the trauma of partition, the horrendous memory of intense communal and sectarian bloodbath and was keen to prevent such internecine violence in future.  The Constitution provides two sets of rights of minorities which can be placed in ‘common domain’ and ‘separate domain’. The rights which fall in the ‘common domain’ are those which are applicable to all the citizens of our country. The rights which fall in the ‘separate domain’ are those which are applicable to the minorities only and these are reserved to protect their identity. The distinction between ‘common domain’ and ‘separate domain’ and their combination have been well kept and protected in the Constitution.  Common domain and secular India Article 14: Equality before law.This ensures that no minority is prosecuted with arbitrary laws which are stacked against them.The law of the land is equal to every one  regardless of any faith. Article 15: Prohibition of discrimination on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex or place of birth.This allows equal access of all public places to all the religions.In past the Dalits where not allowed to draw water from ponds.This is now banned and legally culpable. Article 16: Equality of opportunity in matters of public employment.The jobs in government open to all sections of the Society . Article 21: Protection of life and personal liberty Article 25: Freedom of conscience and free profession, practice and propagation of religion.There is no state religion and therefore minorities are free to profess their own religion and customs  Article 26: Freedom to manage religious affairs. Article 27: Freedom as to payment of taxes for promotion of any particular Religion Article 28: Freedom as to attendance at religious instruction or religious worship in certain educational institutions Separate domain: Article 29: Protection of interests of minorities- Right of ‘any section of the citizens’ to ‘conserve’ its ‘distinct language , script or culture’ and restriction on denial of admission to any citizen, to any educational institution maintained or aided by the State, ‘on grounds only of religion, race, caste, language or any of them Article 30: Right of minorities to establish and administer educational institutions- Right of all Religious and Linguistic Minorities to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice and freedom of Minority-managed educational institutions from discrimination in the matter of receiving aid from the State Article 25: Sikh community’s right of ‘wearing and carrying of kirpans Article 347: Special provision relating to language spoken by a section of the population of a State Article 350: Language to be used in representations for redress of grievances Art. 350A: Facilities for instruction in mother-tongue at primary stage Art. 350 B: Special Officer for Linguistic Minorities Outcomes of a secular constitution Due to above provisions, we see strong minority institutions and a thriving minority community unlike in rest of the world, where majoritarianism is posing a threat to the minority community, and the latter is rising in revolt as seen in case of France and other European countries (Charlie Hebdo incident).  India, on the other hand, has its secular fabric intact, where public display of religious symbols and practices, common celebration of festivals, national holidays for festivals of minority community etc. are celebrated by the entire country. We had a time when a muslim was the president of India, prime minister was Sikh and Christian the head of largest ruling party which was supported by a communist party which believes in atheism. In recent times, however, using the minorities as a political weapon to garner votes has created a rift in society and is giving rise to communal tendencies .Further there have been rising incidences of majoritarianism reflected in incidents of lynching and hate speech online, which will be against the vision our founding fathers had for this country. Thus, we must take steps to ensure their vision is intact and India retains its identity as a salad bowl for communities. Conclusion India has a unique history as a nation where different minorities have lived amicably with major community.The founding fathers of India wanted to create an egalitarian society where the minorities will not be overwhelmed by majority and will be developed as per the democratic norms.This vision has been reflected in constitution of India.This idea of a united and secular India make India strong domestically and internationally.Therefore this needs to be preserved, protected and defended against any harm to it. 3. In what ways did the contemporary post independence leadership address the issue of tribal integration? Was is successful? Critically evaluate.  Approach  Introduction should show the diversity or the problems with tribal integration. In body, write about measures taken since independence till today for tribal integration. Also, write the critical aspect where these measures have failed. Provide a brief conclusion. Introduction The task of integrating the tribal people into the mainstream was extremely complex, given the varied conditions under which they live in different parts of the country, and their different languages and distinct cultures. The 1971 Census recorded over 400 tribal communities numbering nearly 38 million people and constituting nearly 6.9 per cent of the Indian population. Body The preservation of the tribal people’s rich social and cultural heritage lay at the heart of the government’s policy of tribal integration. There were two major approaches regarding the place to be accorded to tribals in Indian society at the time of independence  One approach was to leave the tribal people alone, uncontaminated by modern influences operating outside their world and to let them stay more or less as they were.  The second approach was that of assimilating them completely and as quickly as possible into the Indian society all around them.  PM Nehru rejected both these approaches and favoured the policy of integrating the tribal people in Indian society while maintaining their distinct identity and culture. Nehru stood for economic and social development of the tribal people in multifarious ways, especially in the fields of communication, modern medical facilities, agriculture and education. He spelt out five principles in 1952, known as Nehruvian Panchasheel, to help in guiding the administration of tribal affairs. Tribals should be allowed to develop according to their own genius. Tribals’ rights in land and forest should be respected. Tribal teams should be trained to undertake administration and development without too many outsiders being inducted. Tribal development should be undertaken without disturbing tribal social and cultural institutions. The index of tribal development should be the quality of their life and not the money spent. Constitutional measures: The constitution recognized the rights and dismal conditions of tribals and thus provided several safeguards: Protective Safeguards Educational safeguards-Article 15(4) and 29 Safeguards for employment -Articles 16(4), 320(4) and 333 Economic safeguards -Article 19(Profession) Abolition of bonded labour -Article 23 Protection from social injustice and all forms of exploitation -Article 46 Political Safeguards Reservation of seats for ST in Lok Sabha and Assemblies-Article 330,332,164 Appointment of Minister in charge of Tribal welfare Special provisions in respect of Nagaland, Assam and Manipur -Articles-371(A),371(B) and 371 Developmental Safeguards Promoting the educational and economic interests of the Scheduled Tribes-Articles 46 Grants from Central Government to the states for welfare of Scheduled Tribes and raising the level of administration of Scheduled Areas-Article 75. The governors of the states in which tribal areas were situated were given special responsibility to protect tribal interests, including the power to modify central and state laws in their application to tribal areas, and to frame regulations for the protection of tribals’ right to land and also their protection from money lenders. The constitution also provided for the setting up of Tribal Advisory Councils in all states containing tribal areas to advise on matters concerning the welfare of tribals.  Legislative measures: Protection of Civil Rights act, 1955 to prescribe punishment for the preaching and practice of  Untouchability for the enforcement of any disability arising there from for matters connected therewith. SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act to prevent the commission of offences of atrocities against the members of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes, to provide for Special Courts for the trial of such offences and for the relief and rehabilitation of the victims of such offences and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996 or PESA to provide for the extension of the provisions of Part IX of the Constitution relating to the Panchayats to the Scheduled Areas. Forest Rights Act, 2006 was enacted to protect the marginalised socio-economic class of citizens and balance the right to environment with their right to life and livelihood. Administrative measures: A Commissioner for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes was appointed by the President to investigate whether the safeguards provided for them were being observed. The central and state governments created special facilities and organized special programmes for the welfare and development of the tribal areas and the tribal people including the promotion of cottage and village industries and generation of employment among them.  Large expenditures were undertaken and large sums set apart in the Five-Year Plans for the purpose.  The funding for tribal welfare significantly increased after 1971. In spite of the constitutional safeguards and the efforts of the central and state governments, the tribals’ progress and welfare has been very slow, and even dismal. Except in the Northeast, the tribals continue to be poor, indebted, landless and often unemployed.  Reasons for lack of optimal development in tribals Weak execution- Due to divergence between centre and states policies & weak performance of Tribal Advisory Council. Quite often the funds allocated for tribal welfare are not spent or are spent without corresponding results, or are even misappropriated. Administrative apathy- Often the administrative personnel are ill-trained or even prejudiced against tribals. The sympathetic officials are also known to be quickly transferred out of tribal areas under the pressure of traders, money lenders, forest contractors and land-grabbers. Lack of development of tribal languages- In many areas, primary education through the tribal languages has taken place, but in others the state governments have tended to neglect tribal languages and education through their medium. Denial of justice- Weakness in the justice delivery mechanism & lack of awareness about legal system has led to continued alienation of tribal land, indebtedness, bonded labour Continuous harassment- Laws preventing transfer of land to outsiders have continued to be evaded, leading to alienation of land and eviction of tribals. Rapid extension of mines and industries has worsened their conditions in many areas and the tribals’ traditional right of access to the forest and its produce is continuously curtailed. Class differences- Development of class differences among tribal societies and upper class tribals co-operating with non-tribals has led to inter-tribal conflict and discontentment Way Forward An empowered citizenry and a functioning, participatory (including participation of women) self-governance is the best guarantee for a democratic nation; Due share in socio-economic progress for tribal people and their habitations, including facilities like health, education, livelihood, drinking water, sanitation, roads, electricity and sustainable income, in situ; Protecting the land and forest rights of tribal communities is equivalent to protecting their livelihoods, life and liberty. The right to natural resources in tribal lands has to be protected. They should only be accessed with the consent of the Gram Sabhas of the villages While tribal lands hold much of the natural and mineral wealth of the nation, these resources cannot be alienated against their will. Moreover, communities who part with their lands have the right to share in the wealth and income so generated from its resources. Hence, a reasonable share of the wealth generated by the resources in their homelands must accrue to them by law The right to preservation of their language, culture and traditions, and to protect themselves against the loss of identity, must be recognized, protected, documented and allowed to thrive as a dynamic living culture. TLP Synopsis Day 136 PDF

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 20th July 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) New emigration law to replace extant 1983 Act Part of: GS Prelims and GS - II - Policies and Interventions; International relations In news Ministry of External Affairs shall table the proposed Emigration Bill, 2021 in Parliament in the current monsoon session. The proposed legislation that will replace the extant Emigration Act of 1983 will be crucial for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), especially those from Kerala as the provisions cover labour migration and exploitation, remittances, student mobility and human trafficking. What are the features of the Draft Bill? It seeks to provide a regulatory mechanism to govern overseas employment of Indian nationals, and protect and promote the welfare of Indian emigrants.   It defines emigrants as Indian citizens who seek to or have departed out of India for employment. Authorities: The draft Bill seeks to create two authorities: (i) the Bureau of Emigration Policy and Planning (BEPP), and (ii) the Bureau of Emigration Administration (BEA).   The functions of BEPP will consist of preparing policies on matters related to welfare of emigrants; negotiating labour and social security agreements with destination countries.    The functions of BEA will consist of maintaining a database of Indian emigrants, and implementing measures and programmes for welfare of emigrants.    Nodal committees in states and union territories (UTs): Their functions include: (i) initiating action to prosecute entities involved in trafficking of persons, and (ii) undertaking pre-departure orientation programmes and skill upgradation programmes for prospective emigrants. Human resources agencies: These are agencies engaged in recruitment for an employer.  These agencies must be registered by a competent authority.  The certificate of registration will be valid for five years and may be cancelled on various grounds. Appeal against decisions of the competent authority with regard to registration of these agencies will lie with the central government Accreditation of employers: Any employer who intends to recruit an emigrant must apply for accreditation with the competent authority.  Such accreditation will be valid for a period of five years.  News Source: TH India emerges as 5th largest forex reserves holder in the world Part of: GS Prelims and GS - III - Economy In news India’s forex (Foreign Exchange) reserves stood at $608.99 billion as on June 25, 2021. With this, India has emerged as the fifth largest foreign exchange reserves holder in the world after China, Japan, Switzerland and Russia. In 2020-21, India’s balance of payments recorded surplus in both current account and capital account which contributed to the increase in foreign exchange reserves during the year. Besides exports and imports of goods and services, the overall stability of the external sector depends on other components of balance of payments including remittances (transfers), income in the current account, the size of net capital flows and external debt.  India is comfortable in most of these external sector vulnerability indicators. What is Foreign Exchange Reserves? These are assets held on reserve by a central bank in foreign currencies, which can include bonds, treasury bills and other government securities. Most foreign exchange reserves are held in U.S. dollars. These assets are held to ensure that the central bank has backup funds if the national currency rapidly devalues or becomes altogether insolvent. It is an important component of the Balance of Payment and an essential element in the analysis of an economy’s external position. India’s Forex Reserve  It includes: Foreign Currency Assets(FCA), Gold reserves, Special Drawing Rights and Reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) FCAs are Assets that are valued based on a currency other than the country’s own currency. It is the largest component of the forex reserve. It is expressed in dollar terms. Special drawing rights (SDR): It is an international reserve asset, created by the IMF in 1969 to supplement its member countries’ official reserves. It is neither a currency nor a claim on the IMF. The value of the SDR is calculated from a weighted basket of major currencies, including the U.S. Dollar, the Euro, Japanese Yen, Chinese Yuan, and British Pound. Reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) It implies a portion of the required quota of currency each member country must provide to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that can be utilized for its own purposes. It is basically an emergency account that IMF members can access at any time without agreeing to conditions or paying a service fee. India’s FOREX is governed by RBI under RBI Act,1934.  The level of foreign exchange reserves is largely the outcome of the RBI’s intervention in the foreign exchange market. News Source: PIB Conjugal rights before Supreme Court Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II - Judiciary In news The Supreme Court is expected to begin hearing a fresh challenge to the provision allowing restitution of conjugal rights under Hindu personal laws.  What are conjugal rights?  Section 9 of the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955 deals with restitution of conjugal rights.  It recognises one aspect of conjugal rights — the right to consortium and protects it by allowing a spouse to move court to enforce the right.  Conjugal rights are rights created by marriage, i.e. right of the husband or the wife to the society of the other spouse.  The law recognises these rights— both in personal laws dealing with marriage, divorce etc, and in criminal law requiring payment of maintenance and alimony to a spouse.   How can these rights be enforced?  When either the husband or the wife has, without reasonable excuse, withdrawn from the society of the other, the aggrieved party may apply, by petition to the district court.  And the court, on being satisfied of the truth of the statements made in such a petition and that there is no legal ground why the application should not be granted, may decree restitution of conjugal rights accordingly.  Also, if a spouse refuses cohabitation, the other spouse can move the family court seeking a decree for cohabitation. If the order of the court is not complied with, the court can attach property. However, the decision can be appealed before a High Court and the Supreme Court. Why has the law been challenged?  Main ground is that it is violative of the fundamental right to privacy.  It amounted to a “coercive act” on the part of the state, which violates one’s sexual and decisional autonomy, and right to privacy and dignity.  The provision disproportionately affects women. Women are often called back to marital homes under the provision, and given that marital rape is not a crime, leaves them susceptible to such coerced cohabitation.  Also in question is whether the state can have such a compelling interest in protecting the institution of marriage that it allows a legislation to enforce cohabitation of spouses.  News Source: IE Israeli spyware Pegasus Part of: GS Prelims and GS -III - Cybercrime In news The continued use of spyware Pegasus, which an Israeli company sells to governments worldwide, has been confirmed with fresh reports.  Like the phones it targets, Pegasus has been apparently updated and now comes with new surveillance capabilities.  What is Pegasus?  It is a spyware tool developed by an Israeli firm, the NSO Group.  Spyware spies on people through their phones.  Pegasus works by sending an exploit link, and if the target user clicks on the link, the malware or the code that allows the surveillance is installed on the user’s phone.  Once Pegasus is installed, the attacker has complete access to the target user’s phone.  What can Pegasus do?  Pegasus can “send back the target’s private data, including passwords, contact lists, calendar events, text messages, and live voice calls from popular mobile messaging apps”.  The target’s phone camera and microphone can be turned on to capture all activity in the phone’s vicinity, expanding the scope of the surveillance.  What is a zero-click attack?  A zero-click attack helps spyware like Pegasus gain control over a device without human interaction or human error.  So all awareness about how to avoid a phishing attack or which links not to click are pointless if the target is the system itself.  Most of these attacks exploit software which receive data even before it can determine whether what is coming in is trustworthy or not, like an email client.  What’s the Difference Between Malware, Trojan, Virus, and Worm?  Malware is defined as a software designed to perform an unwanted illegal act via the computer network. It could be also defined as software with malicious intent.  Malware can be classified based on how they get executed, how they spread, and/or what they do. Some of them are discussed below.  Virus: A program that can infect other programs by modifying them to include a possible evolved copy of itself.  Worms: Disseminated through computer networks, unlike viruses, computer worms are malicious programs that copy themselves from system to system, rather than infiltrating legitimate files.  Trojans: Trojan or trojan horse is a program that generally impairs the security of a system. Trojans are used to create back-doors (a program that allows outside access into a secure network) on computers belonging to a secure network so that a hacker can have access to the secure network.  Hoax: An e-mail that warns the user of a certain system that is harming the computer. The message thereafter instructs the user to run a procedure (most often in the form of a download) to correct the harming system. When this program is run, it invades the system and deletes an important file.  Spyware: Invades a computer and monitors a user’s activities without consent. Spywares are usually forwarded through unsuspecting e-mails with bonafide e-mail i.ds. Spyware continues to infect millions of computers globally.  News Source: IE New Commission for Air Quality Management Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II - Policies and interventions; Statutory Bodies GS -III - Conservation; Climate change In news The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) is set to table the Commission for Air Quality Management in the National Capital Region and Adjoining Areas Bill, 2021 in Parliament during the Monsoon Session. About the Bill It provides for the constitution of a Commission for better coordination, research, identification, and resolution of problems related to air quality in the National Capital Region (NCR) and adjoining areas. Adjoining areas have been defined as areas in the states of Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh adjoining the NCR where any source of pollution may cause adverse impact on air quality in the NCR. It also dissolves the Environment Pollution Prevention and Control Authority established in the NCR in 1998. Composition: It will be headed by a full-time chairperson who has been a Secretary to the Government of India, or a Chief Secretary to a State government. The chairperson will hold the post for three years or until s/he attains the age of 70 years. It will have members from several Ministries as well as representatives from the stakeholder States. It will have experts from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) and Civil Society. Functions: Coordinating actions taken by concerned state governments (Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh). Planning and executing plans to prevent and control air pollution in the NCR. Providing a framework for identification of air pollutants. Conducting research and development through networking with technical institutions. Training and creating a special workforce to deal with issues related to air pollution. Preparing various action plans such as increasing plantation and addressing stubble burning. Powers: The new body will have the power to issue directions and entertain complaints as it deems necessary for the purpose of protecting and improving the quality of the air in the NCR and adjoining areas. It will also lay down parameters for control of air pollution (such as permissible levels of emissions and discharge of pollutants). It will also be in charge of identifying violators, monitoring factories and industries and any other polluting unit in the region, and will have the powers to shut down such units. It will also have the powers to overrule directives issued by the state governments in the region, that may be in violation of pollution norms. News Source: IE Moon’s Wobble Effect Part of: GS Prelims and GS III - Sci and Tech In news Recently, NASA has highlighted Moon’s Wobble as a potential problem in the near future. What is the Moon's Wobble? When the Moon makes its elliptical orbit, its velocity varies and alters causing our perspective of the "light side" to appear at slightly different angles. This is what it calls the Moon’s wobble or that is how it appears to our eyes. It is a cyclical shift in the moon’s orbit, it is a regular swaying (Oscillation) in the moon’s orbit. It was first documented way back in 1728. This wobble takes over an 18.6-year period to complete. It acts as a background of sea level rise. What is the Impact of Wobble on Earth? The moon wobble impacts the gravitational pull of the moon, and therefore, indirectly influences the ebb and flow of tides on the Earth. Each wobble cycle has the power to amplify and suppress the tides on Earth. During half of the Moon’s orbit of 18.6 years, the Earth's regular tides are suppressed i.e. high tides are lower than normal and low tides higher than normal (Current situation). In the other half, the effect is reversed, which is called the tide-amplifying phase of the Moon. What are the Related Concerns? The lunar cycle is expected to shift again by mid-2030, and in the coming phase, the tides will amplify once again. The upcoming changes in the lunar cycle will pose a serious threat, as the amplified high tides coupled with the rising sea levels will make the risk of flooding far greater across all coastal regions of the globe. It raises the baseline, and the more the baseline is raised, the smaller the weather event to cause flooding. The high tide-associated floods—also known as nuisance floods or sunny day floods—may occur in clusters that could last for months or even for longer periods. This surge will be closely associated with the position of the Moon, Earth and the Sun. News Source: IE Speedy trial a fundamental right: HC Part of: GS Prelims and GS - II - Judiciary; Fundamental rights In news The Bombay High Court has recently said “speedy trial is a fundamental right”, highlighting the issue of people languishing in prisons waiting for the trial to begin. A Division Bench of Justices S.S. Shinde and N.J. Jamadar made the comment with respect to those accused in the Bhima Koregaon caste violence case. News Source: TH Oxfam report highlights sharp inequalities in health indicators Part of: GS Prelims and GS - II - Health In news According to the report titled “India Inequality Report 2021: India’s Unequal Healthcare Story” by Oxfam India, sharp inequalities exist across different caste, religious, class and gender categories on various health indicators. The findings are primarily based on secondary analysis from rounds 3 and 4 of the National Family Health Survey and various rounds of the National Sample Survey. What are the key findings of the Report? On most health determinants, interventions and indicators: General category is better off than the SCs and STs, Hindus are better off than Muslims, the rich are better off than the poor, men are better off than women, and the urban population is better off than the rural population.  Women’s literacy has improved across social groups over the years.  SC and ST women lag behind the general category by 18.6% and 27.9%, respectively.  Though the female literacy rate among Muslims (64.3%) is lower than all religious groups, inequality has reduced over time. Sanitation: 65.7% households have access to improved, non-shared sanitation facilities in the general category while SC households are 28.5% behind them and ST are 39.8% behind them. The share of institutional deliveries in India has increased from 38.7% in 2005-06 to 78.9% in 2015-16, but inequalities persist with ST households 15% below the general category, Muslims 12% behind Hindus and a 35% gap between the poorest and richest 20% of the population. News Source: TH  Climate change has added over 1,000 lakes in Swiss Alps: Study Part of: GS Prelims and GS - III - Environment In news According to the study published by the Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology (Eawag), climate change has dramatically altered the Swiss Alp landscape — at a quicker pace than expected — as melting glaciers have created more than 1,000 new lakes across the mountains What are the key findings of the Report? The inventory of Swiss Glacial lakes showed that almost 1,200 new lakes have formed in formerly glaciated regions of the Swiss Alps since the end of the Little Ice Age around 1850. Around 1,000 of them still exist today which is far more than the few hundreds the researchers had expected to find at the beginning of the project. Marked acceleration in formation was surprising and 180 have been added in the last decade alone. Do you know? According to an annual study by the Swiss Academies of Science, Glaciers in the Swiss Alps are in steady decline, losing a full 2% of their volume last year alone According to a 2019 study by the ETH technical university, even if the world were to fully implement the 2015 Paris Agreement two-thirds of the Alpine glaciers will likely be lost. News Source: TH NISHTHA Part of: GS Prelims and GS - II - Education In news NESTS has collaborated with NCERT for NISHTHA Capacity Building Programme for EMRS Principals & Teachers The integrated teacher training was provided on 18 modules that were part of comprehensive training ; package covering different aspects of education such as Learning Outcomes, School Based Assessments, POCSO Act, Gender Sensitization, Health and Well-Being in Schools, Teaching of Mathematics, Language, Science, and Social Science etc. What is NISHTHA? The Department of School Education and Literacy has launched a National Mission to improve learning outcomes at the elementary level through an Integrated Teacher Training Programme called NISHTHA under the Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Samagra Shiksha in 2109-20. NISHTHA is a capacity building programme for "Improving Quality of School Education through Integrated Teacher Training".  It aims to build competencies among all the teachers and school principals at the elementary stage.  NISHTHA is the world's largest teachers' training programme of its kind. The basic objective of this massive training programme is to motivate and equip teachers to encourage and foster critical thinking in students.  The initiative is first of its kind wherein standardized training modules are developed at national level for all States and UTs. News Source: PIB Urban Joblessness Rate Part of: GS Prelims and GS - III - Employment In news Annual Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) on employment and unemployment is conducted by National Statistical Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.  The annual PLFS data is available upto 2018-19. As per the results of annual PLFS, the unemployment rate for persons of 15 years and above in India to the extent available during 2017-18 and 2018-19 was 6.0% and 5.8%, respectively.    Initiatives to promote employment by India  Aatmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana (ABRY)  Launched on 1st October, 2020  To incentivize employers for creation of new employment along with social security benefits and restoration of employment.  This scheme being implemented through EPFO seeks to reduce the financial burden of the employers and encourages them to hire more workers.  Under ABRY, Government of India is providing for a period of two years, both the employees’ share (12% of wages) and employers’ share (12% of wages) of contribution or only employees’ share of contribution depending on employment strength of the EPFO registered establishments, for new employees whose monthly wage is less than Rs. 15,000/- per month.  The new employees under the scheme includes those who have lost their employment during Covid-19 pandemic and did not join any EPF covered establishment upto 30.09.2020.  The terminal date for registration of beneficiary under the scheme has been extended from 30th June, 2021 to 31st March, 2022. Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojna (PMGKY):  Government of India has contributed both 12% employer’s share and 12% employee’s share under Employees Provident Fund (EPF), totalling 24% of the wage for the wage month from March to August, 2020 for the establishments having 100 employees with 90% of such employees earning less than Rs. 15000/-.  This has helped in providing employment in EPFO registered establishments during post Covid period.  PM- SVANidhi Scheme has facilitated collateral free working capital loan upto Rs.10,000/- for one-year tenure to street vendors, to help them  resume their businesses during the post Covid period.  Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) is being implemented by the Government inter alia, for facilitating self-employment. Under PMMY collateral free loans upto Rs. 10 lakh, are extended to micro/small business enterprises and to individuals to enable them to setup or expand their business activities. Other initiatives include: Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP)  Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS),  Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY),  Deendayal Antodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM) Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)   News Source: PIB (Mains Focus) INTERNATIONAL/ SECURITY Topic: GS-2: India and its neighborhood- relations.  GS-2: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries Egypt takes centre stage in West Asian affairs Context: Egypt’s diplomats and intelligence officers recently negotiated the end of the 11-day Israel-Palestine conflict, with the new Israeli government looking to Egypt to manage the turbulent cauldron of Gaza.  Political & Economic changes that is propelling Egypt as leader in West Asia: Re-engaging Africa: Egypt, after long years of neglect, has now become active in re-engaging with its neighbours in Africa, with substantial economic and defence partnership agreements Opportunity for Leadership: The failure of Saudi Arabia and the UAE to achieve any success in their military interventions (in Syria, Yemen and Libya), or in the blockade of Qatar, has opened the space for Egypt to regain the influence it has traditionally enjoyed in Arab counsels. Strengthening Economic Base: Egypt’s increasing stature is greatly facilitated by the good management of its economy through difficult times. Economic reforms from 2015 finally provided foreign exchange reserves of $40 billion by 2018 and a growth rate of 5.6% in 2019. Reliance on Diplomacy: The instrument that Egypt is using to assert its diverse interests in a complex and conflictual region is not military force, but diplomacy. New Coalition for Cooperation: Egypt, with Iraq and Jordan announced a new tripartite grouping in June 2021 proclaiming the advent of al-Sham al-Jadid, the “New Levant”. Iraq would like to free itself from the Iranian grip and expand ties with its Arab neighbours.  Jordan is unhappy with the recent Saudi role in internal affairs. Egypt views the partnership as an opportunity to move beyond its traditional dependence on Saudi Arabia and the UAE and assert its own leadership in the region. Also, together, the partners constitute a near-contiguous land mass, with a total population of 150 million and considerable domestic agricultural and industrial capacity. Regional Challenges Ethiopia’s plan to construct the GERD on Blue Nile: Egypt fears this project could restrict its access to the waters of the Nile, the source of 95% of its fresh water and sees this project as an “existential threat”. Egypt has adopted diplomatic response by having defence agreements with the “ring countries” around Ethiopia — Sudan, Uganda, Burundi, Rwanda and Kenya — to safeguard its interests.  Egypt has agreed to build a major dam and hydropower project in Tanzania, so that the latter will compete with Ethiopia in the export of power in the region Turkey: In the East Mediterranean, Egypt, with other littoral partners, has delineated energy claims in the sea which conflict with Turkey’s claims. With neither side willing to compromise, there are serious fears of conflict.  Also, there is differences between Egypt & Turkey w.r.t Libya & its peace process. Egypt affirmed its interest in Libya by inaugurating a new naval base close to the Libyan border. Domestic Economic Issues: Due to the novel coronavirus pandemic, unemployment has increased, recovery has been slow, and the percentage of workers without adequate income has gone up from 55% to nearly 75%. The poverty rate in Egypt is still 2% higher than in 2015, when reforms had started Further deterioration in the economy could compel Egypt to seek assistance from the Gulf States, which would dilute its independent posture in regional affairs. Conclusion While Egypt’s diplomacy has already placed it in the vanguard of regional affairs, it also faces serious challenges. Connecting the dots: India-Africa Relationship Iran and Nuclear deal INTERNATIONAL/ SECURITY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: GS-3: Cyber Security and its challenges GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Project Pegasus Context: A global collaborative investigative project has discovered Israeli spyware Pegasus was used to target thousands of people across the world. In India, at least 300 people are believed to have been targeted. What is Pegasus? Built and marketed by Israeli company NSO, Pegasus is a software that infects devices & spies on the victim by transferring data to master server in an unauthorised manner. NSO says the software is intended for use against criminals and terrorists and is made available only to military, law enforcement and intelligence agencies from countries with good human rights records. How does it work? Pegasus, in the very basic form, can infect devices that are connected to the internet. Some updated versions can also infect phones even without the victim clicking on any links or messages. Most spyware and stalkerware apps disguise themselves as anti-theft applications that can be used to track stolen or lost devices.  While viruses and malware can be detected by anti-virus software, spyware & stalkerware apps disguise themselves as useful and send out stolen data to central servers without the knowledge of users. The software can, based on instructions from a remote server, automatically turn on the camera and the microphone and look into chats, access the calendar and read SMS-es and emails. Issues:  Scale of usage: The allegations here are not new. What is new is the scale of the targeting of innocent people that's allegedly taking place. Nearly 200 reporters from 21 countries have their phone numbers on this list.  Attack on Dissidents: It reflects a disturbing trend with regard to the use of hacking software against dissidents and adversaries. In 2019 also, Pegasus software was used to hack into HR & Dalit activists. Violation of Fundamental Rights: The very existence of a surveillance system, whether under a provision of law or without it, impacts the right to privacy and the exercise of freedom of speech (Article 19) and personal liberty (A-21). Endangers Safety of journalists: In the absence of privacy, the safety of journalists, especially those whose work criticises the government, and the personal safety of their sources is jeopardised. Declining Press Freedom: World Press Freedom Index produced by Reporters Without Borders has ranked India 142 out of 180 countries in 2021 (India’s ranked 133 in 2016) Leads to Self-Censorship: The perceived danger, founded on reasonable suspicion that surveillance may happen, itself impacts their ability to express, receive and discuss such ideas. Dangers of Mass Surveillance: As spyware becomes more affordable and interception becomes more efficient, there will no longer be a need to target specific individuals. Everyone will be potentially subject to state-sponsored mass surveillance. Weak Legislative Protection: The proposed legislation related to the personal data protection of Indian citizens fails to consider surveillance while also providing wide exemptions to government authorities. Way Ahead The need for judicial oversight over surveillance systems in general, and judicial investigation into the Pegasus hacking in particular, is essential. Only the judiciary can be competent to decide whether specific instances of surveillance are proportionate, whether less onerous alternatives are available, and to balance the necessity of the government’s Security objectives with the rights of the impacted individuals Connecting the dots: India needs an updated Cybersecurity Strategy  Blockchain Technology: Advantages & Challenges (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. Comments Up-voted by IASbaba are also the “correct answers”. Q.1 Which of the following Ministry launched the NISHTHA initiative? Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare  Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology Ministry of Education Ministry of Defence Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding Emigration Bill, 2021:  Nodal committees shall be formed in states and union territories (UTs)which will initiate action to prosecute entities involved in trafficking of persons Human resources agencies shall be formed which must be registered by a competent authority.   Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 only Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Which of the following is included in India’s Forex Reserve?  Foreign Currency Assets(FCA) Gold reserves Special Drawing Rights  Reserve position with the International Monetary Fund (IMF) Select the correct statements: 1 and 2 only 3 and 4 only 1 and 4 only 1, 2, 3 and 4 ANSWERS FOR 19th July 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 D 2 C 3 B Must Read On Police reforms: The Hindu On inter-faith marriages & inter-caste marriages: Indian Express

PIB

PRESS INFORMATION BUREAU (PIB) IAS UPSC – 14th June to 20th June – 2021

ARCHIVES GS-2 Mission for NISHTHA Capacity Building Programme for EMRS Teachers and Principals (Topic: Policies) As many as 120 teachers and principals of EMRSs from Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh completed a 40 days’ NISHTHA-National initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement Program, a national flagship program of NCERT on 19th June 2021.  Ministry of Tribal Affairs and NCERT come together on a joint mission for NISHTHA Capacity Building Program for conducting such programs across 350 functional EMRS schools across the country. The participants were capacitated on 18 holistic and comprehensive modules covering different aspects of education such as Learning Outcomes, Assessment Practices, learner-centred pedagogy, Art-Integrated Learning, Gender Equality, Covid Response of Schools, POCSO Act, Pedagogy of Science, Mathematics, Language, Social Science Subjects etc. NISHTHA NISHTHA Teachers Training Programme 2020 – NISHTHA means National Initiative for School Heads’ and Teachers’ Holistic Advancement.  NISHTHA is a capacity building programme for “Improving Quality of School Education through Integrated Teacher Training”.  It aims to build competencies among all the teachers and school principals at the elementary stage. It is expected to fulfil the long-standing vision of Ministry of Tribal Affairs (MoTA) to achieve academic excellence in Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs). The NISHTHA Training program for EMRS teachers affirms the National Education Policy (NEP-2020) recommendation of “Providing In-service continuous professional development as these will be strengthened and substantially expanded to meet the needs of enriched teaching-learning processes for quality education.” The objectives of NISHTHA mega-training programme are: To equip all the elementary stage teachers on learning outcomes, school-based assessment, learner centred pedagogy, new initiatives in education and addressing diverse needs of children through multiple pedagogies, etc. To monitor and provide extensive support to the teachers using multiple modes up to the classroom level, in view of improving learning outcomes of the students. To orient state functionaries and school principals on learning outcomes, national achievement survey, learner- centred pedagogy and new initiatives in school education so that they are able to monitor schools and extend support to schools for the implementation of new initiatives. GS-2 DBT Issues a Special Call for improving Agriculture Productivity in the North East Region (Topic: Agriculture) With the aim to understand the local problems of the NER farmers and provide scientific solutions to those problems, the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) has issued a Special Call for North East Region as a part of its Mission Programme “Biotech-Krishi Innovation Science Application Network (Biotech-KISAN)”. “Biotech-Krishi Innovation Science Application Network (Biotech-KISAN)” Biotech-KISAN is a scientist-farmer partnership scheme launched in 2017   for agriculture innovation to ensure biotechnology benefits like sustained and improved income of farmers to farmers.  This initiative did not merely encompassed Bio technology inputs but improving factors around farming with soil and water being important areas of intervention.  Thus, the improved productivity is also proposed to be subjected for value addition to ensure local branding with elevated values for better return.  Biotech Kisan have its unique feature to identify & promote local farm leadership in both genders.  Under this scheme, so far 146 Biotech-KISAN Hubs have been established covering all 15 agroclimatic zones and110 Aspirational Districts in the country.  The scheme has benefitted over two lakhs farmers so far by increasing their agriculture output and income. Over 200 entrepreneurships have also been developed in rural areas. Why DBT Issues a Special Call specifically focusing on the North East Region  It is predominantly agrarian with70% of its workforce engaged in agriculture and allied sector for livelihood.  The region produces merely 1.5 per cent of country ‘s food grain and continues to be a net importer of food grains even for its domestic consumption.  The NE region has untapped potential to enhance the income of the farming population by promotion of location specific crops, horticultural and plantation crops, fisheries and livestock production. The Biotech-KISAN will be implemented in the North East Region with objective of linking available innovative agriculture technologies to the farm with the small and marginal farmers, especially women farmers of the region.  GS-3 National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) celebrates its 18th Foundation Day (Topic: Technology) National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI) celebrated its 18th Foundation Day on 19th June. For the last 18 years, NIXI has been contributing to Indian Internet Ecosystem.  On the occasion of completing 18 years, the National Internet Exchange of India hosted a webinar on “Digital Economy – expanding footprints”.  NIXI is also credited with localizing internet domains and encouraging websites to register with the .in address.  Its efforts have seen fruition as India surpassed 2.7 million registrations of .in domain, making India the third-largest nation in Asia in the country-centric, top-level domain growth. Further, the company has also set out to promote local content with its. भारत initiatives. National Internet Exchange of India (NIXI)  NIXI is a not-for-profit Organization was set up on 19th June, 2003 for peering of ISPs among themselves for the purpose of routing the domestic traffic within the country, instead of taking it all the way to US/Abroad, thereby resulting in better quality of service (reduced latency) and reduced bandwidth charges for ISPs by saving on International Bandwidth.  It is managed and operated on a Neutral basis, in line with the best practices for such initiatives globally. .IN is India’s Country Code Top Level domain (ccTLD). The Govt. of India delegated the operations of IN Registry to NIXI in 2004.  GS-2 Minister for Tribal Affairs launches the tribal livelihoods initiative “Sankalp Se Siddhi – Mission Van Dhan” (Topic: Schemes) An important initiative, aimed at sustainable livelihoods for our tribal population, Sankalp Se Siddhi – Mission Van Dhan, was launched by Shri Arjun Munda, Hon’ble Minister for Tribal Affairs. Seven new Tribes India Outlets inaugurated virtually at Jagdalpur, Ranchi, Jamshedpur and Sarnath. inaugurated seven more Tribes India outlets, two in Jagdalpur, three in Ranchi, one in Jamshedpur and another at Sarnath.  Showcasing tribal products from all over the country, the outlets will have specific GI and Van Dhan corners and will display the large variety of GI tagged and natural products from different parts of the country.  The Sarnath outlet is the first successful collaboration with the Ministry of Culture at an ASI heritage site. With these outlets, the total number of Tribes India outlets have gone up to 141. The event also witnessed the inauguration and launch of several other programmes, including the new premises of the Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) headquarters.  Keeping in line with the Prime Minister’s clarion call ‘Vocal for Local’ and to build an Atmanirbhar Bharat, TRIFED has been coming up with several initiatives, aimed at sustainable livelihoods for our tribal population. About Sankalp Se Siddhi -Mission Van Dhan The most notable initiative unveiled was Sankalp Se Siddhi — Mission Van Dhan. TRIFED has been implementing several noteworthy programmes for the empowerment of the tribals.  Over the past two years, the ‘Mechanism for Marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFP) through Minimum Support Price (MSP) and Development of Value Chain for MFP’ has impacted the tribal ecosystem in a major way.  It has injected `3,000 crores into the tribal economy, even during such difficult times, aided by government push.  The Van Dhan tribal start-ups, a component of the same scheme, have emerged as a source of employment generation for tribal gatherers and forest dwellers and the home-bound tribal artisans.   TRIFED now plans to expand its operations through the convergence of various schemes of different ministries and departments to launch various tribal development programmes under the Sankalp Se Siddhi — Mission Van Dhan banner for expediting its implementation in a Mission mode.  Through this mission, the establishment of 50,000 Van Dhan Vikas Kendras, 3000 Haat Bazaars, 600 godowns, 200 Mini TRIFOOD units, 100 common facility centres, 100 TRIFOOD parks, 100 SFURTI clusters, 200 Tribes India retail stores, e-commerce platforms for TRIFOOD and Tribes India brands is being targeted. GS-2 Centre allocates Rs.3,691 Crore grants to Tamil Nadu under Jal Jeevan Mission to make provision of tap water supply to every home (Topic: Schemes) To translate Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi’s vision of providing clean tap water to every household, Union government has increased the Central grant to Tamil Nadu under the Jal Jeevan Mission in the year 2021-22 to Rs 3,691.21 Crore, which was Rs 921.99 Crore in 2020-21. With four-fold increase in allocation, Central Government pushes for accelerating pace in accomplishing target of ‘Har Ghar Jal’ by the State. About Jal Jeevan mission: Jal Jeevan Mission, is envisioned to provide safe and adequate drinking water through individual household tap connections by 2024 to all households in rural India.  The programme will also implement source sustainability measures as mandatory elements, such as recharge and reuse through grey water management, water conservation, rain water harvesting.  The Jal Jeevan Mission will be based on a community approach to water and will include extensive Information, Education and communication as a key component of the mission.  JJM looks to create a jan andolan for water, thereby making it everyone’s priority. The Jal Jeevan Mission in Tamil Nadu: In Tamil Nadu, out of a total of 1.26 Crore households, 40.36lakh households (31.80%) have been provided with tap water connections.  On 15th August 2019, at the time of launch of Jal Jeevan Mission, only 21.65 lakh (17.06%) households had tap water supply.  In 22 months,18.70 lakh (14.74%) households in the State have been provided tap water connections. GS-3 Maiden Indian Navy - European Union Naval Force (EUNAVFOR) Exercise in Gulf of Aden (Topic: Defence) Indian Naval Ship Trikand, mission deployed for Anti-Piracy Operations, is participating in the maiden IN – EUNAVFOR Joint Naval Exercise in the Gulf of Aden.  A total of five warships from four navies participated in the exercise. Other warships include Italian Navy Ship ITS Carabinere, Spanish Navy Ship ESPS Navarra, and two French Navy Ship FS Tonnerre and FS Surcouf. The two-day exercise will see high tempo-naval operations at sea, including advanced air defence and anti-submarine exercises, cross deck helicopter operations, tactical manoeuvres, boarding operations, underway replenishment, Search & Rescue, Man Overboard drills, and other maritime security operations.  EUNAVFOR and the Indian Navy converge on multiple issues including counter piracy operations and protection of vessels deployed under the charter of World Food Programme (UN WFP).  Indian Navy and EUNAVFOR also have regular interaction through SHADE (Shared Awareness and De-confliction) meetings held annually at Bahrain.  This engagement showcases increased levels of synergy, coordination and inter-operability between IN and EUNAVFOR.  It also underscores the shared values as partner navies, in ensuring freedom of seas and commitment to an open, inclusive and a rules-based international order. GS-2 The Northern Limit of Monsoon (NLM) continues to pass through Diu, Surat, Nandurbar, Bhopal, Nowgong, Hamirpur, Barabanki, Bareilly, Saharanpur, Ambala & Amritsar.  (Topic: Geography) According to the National Weather Forecasting Centre of the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the Northern Limit of Monsoon (NLM) continues to pass through 20.5°N/ Long. 60°E, Diu, Surat, Nandurbar, Bhopal, Nowgong, Hamirpur, Barabanki, Bareilly, Saharanpur, Ambala and Amritsar. What is the Northern Limit of Monsoon? NLM, is the northernmost boundary of India up to which monsoon rains have advanced on any given day. The term NLM starts flowing right from the onset to the withdrawal of Monsoon and is directly related to the onset and advance of Monsoon.  So, it is a way of tracking the progress of monsoon clouds as they move over India’s landmass. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) adds that the monsoon “advances northwards, usually in surges, and covers the entire country around July 15″. GS-2 PM extends best wishes to people of Odisha on Raja Parba (Topic: Culture) The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi has extended his best wishes to the people of Odisha on the auspicious occasion of Raja Parba. Raja Parba Raja Parba festival has started being celebrated in Odisha. It is a 3-day festival to honour womanhood is celebrated across Odisha.  Mother earth is believed to be menstruating during this period and preparing herself for the coming agricultural season. The term Raja is derived from Rajaswala (meaning a menstruating woman) and during the medieval period, the festival became more popular as an agricultural occasion remarking the worship of Bhudevi, who is the wife of Lord Jagannath. A silver idol of Bhudevi is still found in Puri Temple aside from Lord Jagannatha. In this three-day-long festival, the second day signifies the beginning of the solar month of Mithuna, in which the season of rains starts.  In this, the sun-dried soil is moistened with the first showers of the monsoon in mid-June marking It arrival of the agricultural year in Odisha with the land preparing itself for productivity. It is said that the mother earth or the divine wife of Lord Vishnu undergoes menstruation during the first three days and lays the ground for future agricultural activities with the arrival of the monsoon.  The fourth day marks Vasumati gadhua or the ceremonial bath of Bhudevi.  GS-2 The First commercial consignment of GI certified Jardalu mangoes from Bihar exported to United Kingdom (Topic: Geographical indication) In a major boost to Agri-exports potential of eastern region, the first commercial consignment of Geographical Indications (GI) certified Jardalu mangoes from Bhagalpur, Bihar was exported to United Kingdom.  APEDA, in collaboration with Bihar government, Indian High Commission & Invest India, exported juicy & aromatic mangoes which were packed and treated at APEDA pack house in Lucknow with distinct aroma and taste, Jardalu mangoes from Bhagalpur district of Bihar received GI certification in 2018. APEDA has been initiating measures to boost mango exports from the non-traditional regions.  Recently, a week-long Indian mango promotion programme was organized in Bahrain where 16 varieties of the fruit including three GI certified Khirsapati&Lakshmanbhog (West Bengal) and Jardalu (Bihar) were displayed at super stores of importer Al Jazeera group. India exported the first commercial consignment of Geographical Indications (GI) certified ‘Jardalu’ mangoes from Bhagalpur, Bihar, to the United Kingdom. About Jardalu Mangoes: ‘Jardalu’ mangoes from Bhagalpur district of Bihar received GI certification in 2018 Despite its rich fibre and enzymes, these mangoes are famous for its exclusive aroma, sweetness and other nutritional properties. Its speciality lies in the fact that it is considered a safe fruit for even those who have been diagnosed with diabetes or have a poor digestive system. About Mangoes: Mango in India is also referred to as ‘king of fruits’ and referred to as Kalpavriksha (wish granting tree) in ancient scriptures. While most of the states in India have mango plantations, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka have a major share in total production of the fruit. Mangoes are processed by the APEDA registered pack house facilities and then exported to various regions and countries including the Middle-east, European Union, USA, Japan and South Korea. GS-3 Rs 498.8 crore budgetary support for Defence innovation through iDEX – DIO approved (Topic: Defence) Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has approved the budgetary support of Rs 498.8 crore to Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) - Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) for the next five years.  Objective of the budgetary support: The budgetary support of Rs 498.8 crore to Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) - Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) will provide a big boost to the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi as iDEX–DIO has the primary objective of self-reliance and indigenisation in defence & aerospace sector of the country. Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX)  Launched in 2018, iDEX is an initiative taken by the government to foster innovation & technology development in Defence and Aerospace by engaging innovators & entrepreneurs to deliver technologically advanced solutions for modernizing Indian Military. iDEX will engage Industries including MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, R& D institutes and academia and provide them grants/funding and other support to carry out R&D development which has good potential for future adoption for Indian defence and aerospace needs. Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) “Defence Innovation Organization (DIO)‟ was formed as a “not for profit‟ company as per Section 8 of the Companies Act 2013 for the purpose of funding and managing iDEX.  Objective of Defence Excellence (iDEX) and Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO): The Department of Defence Production (DDP) created the iDEX framework and established the DIO in order: To create an ecosystem to foster innovation and technology development in defence and aerospace by engaging Industries including MSMES, start-ups, individual innovators, R&D institutes & academia and Providing to these industries the grants/funding and other support to carry out R&D development which has good potential for future adoption for Indian defence and aerospace needs. GS-3 Mandatory Hallmarking of Gold Jewellery  (Topic: Economy) From 16 June, hallmarking of gold jewellery has been made mandatory.  It is initially being implemented across 256 districts.  The new regulations are expected to build trust among buyers as well as bring in more transparency. Key features of the new rules: (prelim pointers) Hallmarked jewellery can be tested from any of Bureau of Indian Standard (BIS) recognised assaying and hallmarking centre (AHC) by a consumer on chargeable basis and a complaint can be filed with the BIS in case purity is compromised. After testing, if it is found that the hallmarking is fake or gold not of the same purity as mentioned in the hallmark sign, a consumer is entitled to get compensation calculated on two times the shortage in purity for the weight of the article sold. BIS has a complaint redressal mechanism under which complaints are recorded centrally at Complaints Management and Enforcement Department (CMED). Complaints can be filed both online as well as offline.  Online, it can be filed through the app BIS CARE or through the consumer engagement portal on the website. Only BIS-registered jewellers can sell hallmarked jewellery. Consumer can ask the jeweller to show their BIS registration or licence number. While buying jewellery, consumer should check the hallmark sign and can even ask for a magnifying glass in case it is not visible. Old jewellery can be got hallmarked as it is, if feasible by the jeweller or after melting and making new jewellery. A committee constituting of representatives of all stake holders, revenue officials and legal experts will.be formed to look into the issues that may possibly emerge during the implementation of the scheme. BIS Hallmarking: The process of certifying the purity and fineness of gold is called hallmarking.  If you see BIS hallmark on the gold jewellery/gold coin, it means it conforms to a set of standards laid by the BIS.  Hallmarking gives consumers an assurance regarding the purity of the gold they bought. Significance of the new rules: According to World Gold Council, India has around 4 lakh jewellers, out of this only 35879 have been BIS certified. The Hallmarking of jewellery/artefacts is required to enhance the credibility of gold Jewellery and Customer satisfaction through third party assurance for the marked purity/fineness of gold, consumer protection.  This step will also help to develop India as a leading gold market centre in the World. GS-2 UN 'High-Level Dialogue on Desertification, Land degradation and Drought' (Topic: Environment) The Prime Minister spoke at the Opening Segment in his capacity as the President of the 14th Session of the Conference of Parties of United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Important takeaway from key note address In last 10 years, around 3 million hectares of forest cover added in India, enhancing the combined forest cover to almost one-fourth of the country's total area. India is on track to achieve its national commitment of Land degradation neutrality. Restoration of 26 million hectares of degraded land aimed by 2030 to achieve an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent Centre of Excellence is being set up in India to promote a scientific approach towards land degradation issues. It is our sacred duty to leave a healthy planet for our future generations. In Banni region, land restoration was done by developing grasslands, which helped in starting virtuous cycle of good soil health, increased land productivity, food security and improved livelihoods. It also supports pastoral activities and livelihood by promoting animal husbandry. In the spirit of South-South cooperation, India is assisting fellow developing countries to develop land restoration strategies. A Centre of Excellence is being set up in India to promote a scientific approach towards land degradation issues. High-level dialogue on desertification, land degradation and drought Our planet is ailing, land degradation affects some 3.2 billion people, 70% of the world’s land has been transformed by human activity.  We can scale up land restoration and nature-based solutions for climate action and the benefit of future generations. Land degradation currently undermines well-being of 3.2 billion people, more than 40 per cent of the entire world population.  The Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) estimates that over 70 per cent of all natural, ice-free land has been transformed by human activity, devastating global biodiversity.  Climate change further exacerbates, and is worsened by, unsustainable land use, with many regions suffering more frequent and prolonged droughts.  In addition, climate-induced land degradation and water stress are expected to deplete more arable land in the coming years, plunging millions of farmers into poverty and contributing to forced migration and conflict.  By 2025, two-thirds of the world could be living under water-stressed conditions, with 1.8 billion people experiencing absolute water scarcity.  Similarly, migration is likely to increase as a result of desertification, with estimates that it will be responsible for the displacement of some 135 million people by 2045. GS-3 PM’s Keynote address at the 5th edition of VivaTech (Topic: Technology) Mr. Narendra Modi delivered the keynote address at the 5th edition of VivaTech (2021). the Prime Minister said that India and France have been working closely on a wide range of subjects including the technology and digital which are emerging areas of cooperation.  Such cooperation continuous growth will not only help our nations but also the world at large.  Mr. Modi mentioned Infosys providing tech support for the French Open tournament and collaboration involving French companies like Atos, Capgemini and India’s TCS and Wipro as examples of IT talent of the two countries serving companies and citizens all over the world. VivaTech  VivaTech is one of the largest digital and start-up events in Europe, held in Paris every year since 2016.  It is jointly organized by Publicis Groupe – a prominent advertising and marketing conglomerate and Les Echos – a leading French media group.  It brings together stakeholders in technology innovation and the startup ecosystem and includes exhibitions, awards, panel discussions and startup contests.  The 5th edition of VivaTech is scheduled to be held between 16-19 June 2021. The event brings together stakeholders in technology innovation and the start-up ecosystem and includes exhibitions, awards, panel discussions and start-up contests. GS-3 Cold desert Ladakh was actively flooding during the post-glacial warming: Study (Topic: Environment) Scientists travelled through the Zanskar and Indus River along the Himalayas to look into geological signatures of past floods in the Ladakh region that date between 15-3 thousand years before present.  Amid the growing fears of desertification across the world, this study claims that the cold deserts of Ladakh once experienced large floods that rose up to 30 meters above the current river levels, and that there are chances of severe flooding in the region owing to global warming.  The study conducted by a team of students and scientists from the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology states that "in the scenario of global warming when the higher Himalaya regions are expected to respond dramatically, flood frequency in Ladakh may increase." Ladakh floods: The scientists reiterated that these floods are unpredictable due to their different forcing factors and frequencies and a record of just over 100 years is not enough to understand the natural ramp of flood occurrences in the region. The large floods in the Himalayan regions normally occur due to glacial or landslide lake outbursts, cloud bursts, excessively strong monsoon during summer and affect the lives of people and the property. The flood leaves a stack of fine sand and silts at places along its channel where the flood energy drastically reduces, these are called slack water deposits, which have been found at several locations along the Zanskar and Indus rivers.  The flood deposits were also analysed for their source. Findings: This analysis showed that the cold desert once experienced a large flood that rose to more than 30 m above the present-day river level.  The active flood plains nearer to river were also utilized by Humans, possibly as camping sites and cooking as indicated by presence of hearths at several locations and levels of flood deposits. Scientists concluded that the flood deposits pointed towards three phases of increased flooding in the region between 14,000- 11,000 years, 10,0008,000 years, and 70004000 years ago. These were times when due to warming, the Indian summer monsoon was active in Ladakh as well.  Further, the rocks of Higher Himalayan Crystalline and Tethyan sequences equally act as hotspots of erosion in the regions during the flood phases. Scientists also found evidence in the form of hearths, a brick or stone-lined fireplace used to heat or cook, about people migrating along the mountain corridors of Ladakh during these periods following the glacial floods in the region.  According to the WIHG team, a detailed genomic and isotopic-based study of these anthropogenic relics may further help understand the geographical antiquity of migrating humans and the kind of food and vegetation they were living on. It implies that in the scenario of global warming, when the higher Himalaya regions are expected to respond dramatically, flood frequency in Ladakh may increase, which may call for serious urban and rural planning. GS-3 GI certified Jalgaon banana exported to Dubai (Topic: Geographical Indication) In a major boost to exports of Geographical Indications (GI) certified agricultural produce, a consignment of fibre and mineral rich ‘Jalgaon banana’ has been exported to Dubai. The twenty-two metric tonnes of GI certified Jalgaon banana were sourced from progressive farmers of Tandalwadi village, part of Jalgaon district of Maharashtra, a banana cluster identified under Agri Export Policy. In 2016, Jalgaon Banana got GI certification which was registered with Nisargraja Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK) Jalgaon. India’s banana export has been rising sharply because of adoption of farm practices as per the global standards. India is the world's leading producer of bananas with a share of around 25% in total output. Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and Madhya Pradesh contribute more than 70% of the country's banana production. What is a geographical indication?  The basic concept underlying GIs is simple, and familiar to any shopper who chooses Roquefort over “blue” cheese or Darjeeling over “black” tea.  “Cognac”, “Scotch”, “Porto”, “Havana”, “Tequila” and “Darjeeling” are some well-known examples of names associated throughout the world with products of a certain nature and quality, known for their geographical origin and for having characteristics linked to that origin.  A geographical indication is a sign used on products that have a specific geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin. Moreover, in order to work as a GI, a sign must identify a product as originating in a given place. In addition, the qualities or reputation of the product should be essentially due to the place of origin.  Since the qualities depend on the geographical place of production, there is a link between the product and its original place of production.

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 20th JULY 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

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 1 Questions [20th JULY,2021] – Day 137

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 1 Questions [20th JULY,2021] – Day 137 TLP (Phase 1) just got over on 8th May (Saturday) and we are extremely thankful for your active participation to make this program a success. Well, though TLP (Phase 1) got over, ‘Picture abhi baaqi hai mere dost’. There is a surprise for you. Since prelims is bound to get delayed once again this year, its not wise to leave the writing practice just now. Hence, we are extending the TLP program  We will be posting 3 questions per day (Monday to Friday). The questions will be based on Current Affairs, so that you don’t have to invest your time separately on exclusively mains oriented topics. So, keep practicing and keep improving. To Know More about TLP  -> CLICK HERE For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Note: Click on Each Question (Link), it will open in a new tab and then Answer respective questions! 1. The general election of 1977 was a watershed in India’s political history? Do you agree? Substantiate. (10 Marks) 1977 का आम चुनाव भारत के राजनीतिक इतिहास में वाटरशेड था? क्या आप सहमत हैं? पुष्टी करें। 2. What role have Cricket and Bollywood played in post independence consolidation? Illustrate. (10 Marks) स्वतंत्रता के बाद के समेकन में क्रिकेट और बॉलीवुड ने क्या भूमिका निभाई है? उदाहरण देकर स्पष्ट करें। 3. Was underestimating and understating Chinese adventurism in the late 1950s a strategic miscalculation? Substantiate your viewpoint. (15 Marks) क्या 1950 के दशक के अंत में चीनी साहसवाद को कम आंकना एक सामरिक गलती थी? अपने दृष्टिकोण की पुष्टि करें। AWARE ( Answer Writing REdefined) Series - 7 Steps to Master Answer Writing Skills by Mohan Sir - 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 :)

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 19th July 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Unique initiatives under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) Part of: GS Prelims and GS - II - Policies and Interventions  In news Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U), one of the world’s largest affordable housing Missions , has launched two unique initiatives. It has launched Khushiyon Ka Aashiyana- Short Film contest 2021 and Awas Par Samvaad which is a series of 75 seminars and workshops,to take ahead the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Housing for All’. ‘Awas Par Samvaad’ aims to create awareness and promote discussion, deliberation and dissemination on 'Housing for All'among multiple stakeholders belonging to varied streams of learning and practices, e.g. engineering, urban community development, planning, finance, etc.  This will be done through 75 nation-wide workshops and seminars. About Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) Launch: 25th June 2015 Aim: To provide housing for all in urban areas by year 2022. Implemented by: Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs Features: Addresses Urban housing shortage among the Urban Poor including the Slum Dwellers by ensuring a pucca house to eligible urban poor. It covers the entire urban area or any such authority under State legislation which is entrusted with the functions of urban planning & regulations. All houses under PMAY(U) have basic amenities like toilet, water supply, electricity and kitchen. It promotes women empowerment by providing the ownership of houses in the name of female members or in joint name. Preference is also given to differently abled persons, senior citizens, SCs, STs, OBCs, Minority, single women, transgender and other weaker & vulnerable sections of the society. It is Divided into Four Verticals: In-situ Rehabilitation of existing slum dwellers using land as a resource through private participation. Credit Linked Subsidy. Affordable Housing in Partnership. Beneficiary-led individual house construction/enhancement. News Source: PIB Mercury’s iron heart Part of: GS Prelims and GS - III - Sci & Tech In news A study by researchers from the University of Maryland disputes the prevailing hypothesis on why Mercury has a big-sized core relative to its mantle (the layer between its core and crust). About the new study Scientists had argued that hit-and-run collisions with other bodies during the formation of our solar system resulted in much of Mercury’s rocky mantle being removed, leaving behind the big, dense, metal core inside.  But new research reveals that Sun’s magnetism is the reason for this and not the collisions. The researchers developed a model showing that the density, mass and iron content of a rocky planet’s core are influenced by its distance from the Sun’s magnetic field. There is a gradient in which the metal content in the core drops off as the four inner planets of our solar system get further from the Sun.  The current work explains this by showing that the distribution of raw materials in the early forming solar system was controlled by the Sun’s magnetic field. The new model shows that during the early formation of our solar system, when the young Sun was surrounded by a swirling cloud of dust and gas, grains of iron were drawn toward the centre by the Sun's magnetic field.  When the planets began to form from clumps of that dust and gas, planets closer to the sun incorporated more iron into their cores than those further away. News Source: TH U.S., Afghanistan, Pakistan and Uzbekistan to form quad group Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II - International Relations In news USA, Afghanistan, Pakistan and Uzbekistan have agreed in principle to establish a new quadrilateral diplomatic platform focused on enhancing regional connectivity. The parties intend to cooperate to expand trade, build transit links, and strengthen business-to-business ties by recognising the historic opportunity to open flourishing interregional trade routes.  Strategic location of Afghanistan Afghanistan’s strategic location has been touted as a competitive advantage for the country.  Afghanistan is bordered by Pakistan to the east and south, Iran to the west, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, and Tajikistan to the north, and China to the northeast. It is located at the heart of the historic Silk Road. It was long the crossroads of commerce between Asian countries connecting them to Europe, and enhancing religious, cultural, and commercial contacts. The formation of the new quad group is important amid China’s desire to extend its Belt Road Initiative (BRI) to Afghanistan. News Source: TH G7’s Build Back Better World Initiative Part of: GS Prelims and GS -II - International Relations In news The G7 (Group of Seven) Countries proposed a ‘Build Back Better World (B3W) initiative’ at the recent 47th G7 summit to counter China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). About B3W Aim: To address the infrastructure investment deficit in developing and lower income countries which is being increasingly captured by China through 2,600 BRI projects This infrastructure plan is being led by the United States. B3W initiative will provide a transparent infrastructure partnership to help narrow about $40 trillion needed by developing nations by 2035. It calls for spending hundreds of billions of dollars in collaboration with the private sector while adhering to climate standards and labour practices. What is China’s BRI? It was launched in 2013.  It is a multi-billion-dollar initiative that aims to link Southeast Asia, Central Asia, the Gulf region, Africa and Europe with a network of land and sea routes. It involves development and investment initiatives that would stretch from Asia to Europe and beyond. More than 100 countries have signed agreements with China to cooperate in BRI projects like railways, ports, highways and other infrastructure. What is Group of Seven? It is an intergovernmental organisation that was formed in 1975. The bloc meets annually to discuss issues of common interest like global economic governance, international security and energy policy. G7 countries: UK, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the US. All the G7 countries and India are a part of G20. The G7 does not have a formal constitution or a fixed headquarters.  The decisions taken by leaders during annual summits are non-binding. News Source: IE Fit for 55 Package: EU Part of: GS Prelims and GS -III - Conservation; Climate change In news Recently, the European Union (EU) released a new climate proposal, the Fit for 55 package. The EU in December 2020 submitted a revised Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) under the Paris Agreement. What are the Aims of the proposal? To deliver the NDC and carbon neutrality goal through proposed changes that would ensure a fair, competitive and green transition by 2030 and beyond. To achieve a balance between “regulatory policies” and market-based carbon pricing to avoid the pitfalls of each. What are the Major Proposals? Renewable Sources: To increase the binding target of renewable sources to 40% from 32% earlier and improve energy efficiency by 36% (from 32.5% earlier) by 2030. Vehicular Carbon Emissions: It must be cut by 55% by 2030 and by 100% by 2035, which means a phaseout of petrol and diesel vehicles by 2035. Emissions Trading System (ETS): Creation of ETS for buildings and road transport to become operational from 2026. ETS are market-based instruments that create incentives to reduce emissions where these are most cost-effective. Social Climate Fund: To help low-income citizens and small businesses adjust to the new ETS, the EU proposes the creation of a Social Climate Fund Carbon-Border Adjustment Mechanism: It will put a price on imports from places that have carbon-intensive production processes. Enhance Sink Capacity: It has set a target to enhance the EU’s sink capacity to 310 million tonnes of CO2 equivalent,  India's INDC, to be achieved primarily, by 2030 To reduce the emissions intensity of the Gross Domestic Product by about a third. A total of 40% of the installed capacity for electricity will be from non-fossil fuel sources. India also promised an additional carbon sink (a means to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere) of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent through additional forest and tree cover by the year 2030. Indian Initiatives to Fight Climate Change: National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) Bharat Stage-VI (BS-VI) emission norms UJALA scheme National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) Coalition for Disaster Resilience Infrastructure International Solar Alliance News Source: DTE AI Powered Grievance Management Application Part of: GS Prelims and GS - II - Policies and interventions; E-Governance In news Recently, the Defence Minister launched an Artificial Intelligence (AI)- powered grievance management application. Earlier, the Chief Justice of India (CJI) launched an AI-based portal ‘SUPACE’ in the judicial system aimed at assisting judges with legal research. About the Project This project is the first of its kind initiative of the Government for using AI, data science and Machine Learning techniques in grievance redressal. It is a citizen centric reform. Developed by: Ministry of Defence (MoD) with the help of IIT-Kanpur. It will automatically handle and analyse the complaints of the people and thus reduce human intervention, save time and bring more transparency in their disposal. Significance: This application will help in understanding the nature of complaints, and policy changes which can be introduced to create systemic improvements to address these grievances. The success of this project in MoD will pave the way for extension of this application across other Ministries. Do you know? A large number of complaints are received on the CPGRAMS (Centralized Public Grievances Redress and Monitoring System) portal of DARPG (Department of Administrative Reforms & Public Grievances). CPGRAMS enables the citizen to track online the grievance being followed up with the Department concerned and also enables DARPG to monitor the grievance. News Source: PIB (Mains Focus) ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE/ SECURITY Topic: GS-3: RBI & Monetary Policy GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. RBI Ban on Mastercard Context: Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has recently banned Mastercard from issuing new debit and credit cards to customers in India with effect from July 22. Reason for Ban: Mastercard which is U.S. card-issuer has failed to comply with the local data storage rules announced by RBI in 2018.  What is the RBI’s data localisation policy? In 2018, RBI had issued a circular ordering card companies such as Visa, Mastercard, and American Express to store all Indian customer data locally so that the regulator could have “unfettered supervisory access”.  This meant that foreign card companies had to store complete information about transactions made by Indian customers in servers located within India.  Companies were initially required to comply with these rules within six months.  The reason offered by the RBI to back up its data localisation rule was that local storage of consumer data is necessary to protect the privacy of Indian users and also to address national security concerns.  Since the order, Mastercard, Visa and other foreign card companies have lobbied to dilute the rules. But the RBI has remained strict that companies must comply with its data localisation rules Consequently, Mastercard deleted Indian customer data from its foreign servers and promised to invest in building local servers in India to store local customer data.  The RBI, however, has not been impressed. Therefore, it has banned Mastercard from issuing new cards to customers from July 22. What is the need for local data storage? Experts believe that customer privacy and national security are genuine concerns that need to be taken seriously.  Governments may also believe that mandating foreign companies to set up local infrastructure can boost their local economies. Governments mandate data localisation in order to favour local companies to foreign ones. China, for example, has used its cyber-security laws to discriminate against foreign companies. A similar trend may be playing out in India with the Centre’s emphasis on economic self-sufficiency. However, many also believe that data localisation rules are too stringent and they could simply be used by governments as tools of economic protectionism.  What are the objections raised by these companies? Corporates also argue that formal international laws to govern the storage of digital information across borders may be sufficient to deal with these concerns.  In 2018, Mastercard had launched a complaint with the U.S. government that PM Modi was actively promoting Indian cards like RuPay and that it was affecting the business of foreign card companies What lies ahead? Business Impacted: Indian banks that are currently enrolled in the Mastercard network are expected to make alternative arrangements with other card companies. The process is expected to take a few months, and their card business is expected to take a significant hit meanwhile.  Benefits Domestic Card Companies: The RBI’s data localisation policy, as it burdens foreign card companies, may end up favouring domestic card issuers like RuPay. The ban on American Express and Diners Club earlier this year benefited the Indian card network RuPay.  Benefits Competitors: Mastercard owns about one-third of the market share in India, and the RBI’s ban is likely to significantly benefit its competitors.  Impacts other foreign companies: Visa, a foreign company which dominates card payments in India, may come under regulatory pressure in the near future.  Hurts Competition in Long Term: Thus, the card payments sector may end up being restricted to a few domestic companies, which in turn can lead to reduced competition. This could mean higher costs and lower quality services for customers. Continued Ambiguity on Data Ownership: Additionally, Information about spending patterns and other customer data can be monetised by companies in a variety of ways. With no clear rules on who owns customer data and to what extent, conflicts over data ownership are likely to continue for some time. Connecting the dots : Current Challenges to Indian Economy  Employment & Recovery of Indian Economy Recession in 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 Ministry launched first of its kind initiative of the Government for using AI, data science and Machine Learning techniques in grievance redressal? Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare  Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology Ministry of Tribal Affairs Ministry of Defence  Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Urban (PMAY-U) It aims to provide housing for all in urban areas by year 2022. It is implemented by Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 only Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Which of the following has launched Fit for 55 Package? USA European Union China Russia ANSWERS FOR 17th July 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 D 2 C 3 C Must Read On GST: Outlook India On China’s QUAD: Hindustan Times On Social Security for Informal Workers: Indian Express

RSTV Video

India- France Relationship – The Big Picture – RSTV IAS UPSC

Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 India and its neighbourhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests In News: Jean-Yves Le Drian, Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of France was on an official visit to India from April 13-15, 2021. During bilateral talks with India's External Affairs Minister, Dr. S. Jaishankar, hosted the visiting Foreign Minister for bilateral talks both Ministers recognised the immense opportunities for greater collaboration in diverse sectors such as trade and investments, defence and security, health, education, research and innovation, energy and climate change. Bilateral ties between New Delhi and Paris cover a gamut of issues including defense, maritime, space, security, and energy. The two nations have managed to carve out a forward-looking partnership that is aimed at strengthening bilateral cooperation on issues such as terrorism, climate change, sustainable growth and development, infrastructure, urbanization, and science and technology. During the meeting – India and France explored ways to strengthen cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, including under a trilateral mechanism with Australia to address emerging challenges in the maritime and space domains. The two foreign ministers held extensive talks covering all aspects of the bilateral strategic ties as well as regional and global challenges. France has decided to be part of India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI): They explored ways to strengthen cooperation in the Indo-Pacific, including the India-France-Australia trilateral mechanism, addressing emerging challenges in the maritime and space domains and working together in the area of climate action and biodiversity protection. India welcomes France's decision to take up the 'Maritime Resources' pillar of India's Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). At the East Asia summit in Bangkok in 2019, Prime Minister Narendra Modi proposed setting up of the IPOI to conserve and sustainably use the maritime domain and to make meaningful efforts to create a safe and secure maritime domain. Reiterated their shared commitment to a multipolar world and faith in multilateralism Post-COVID Agenda: India and France will advance their shared post-COVID agenda through "close collaboration". Both Ministers recognised the immense opportunities for greater collaboration in diverse sectors such as trade and investments, defence and security, health, education, research and innovation, energy and climate change. Bilateral trade with France has witnessed a steady rise in the last decade reaching USD 10.75 billion in 2020. The two sides also recognised the importance of fast tracking the discussions on an India-EU trade and investment agreement. The defence and security ties between India and France are on an upswing in the last few years. India had signed an inter-governmental agreement with France in September 2016 for procurement of 36 Rafale fighter jets at a cost of around Rs 58,000 crore. Dassault Aviation, the manufacturer of Rafales, has delivered 14 jets to the Indian Air Force so far. Collaboration for Mission Gaganyaan: Space agencies of India and France inked an agreement for cooperation for the country’s first human space Mission Gaganyaan.  The agreement provides for CNES to support implementation of a scientific experiment plan on validation missions, exchange information on food packaging and the nutrition programme, and above all the use by Indian astronauts of French equipment, consumables and medical instruments. The first space agreement between France and India dates back to 1964. Existing partnerships between the two nations cover almost all areas of space activity.  ISRO will also be launching the joint Oceansat 3-Argos mission this year. With the new agreement, France will be taking part in the great technological and human challenge that is the Gaganyaan programme.  This cooperation could be extended in the future to parabolic flights operated by Novespace to test instruments and for astronaut training, as well as technical support for construction of an astronaut training centre in Bengaluru 7. India and France had launched the Indo-French Year of the Environment in January 2021 to strengthen cooperation on these issues and ensure coordination ahead of these multilateral events. Objective: To strengthen Indo-French cooperation in sustainable development, increase the effectiveness of actions in favour of global environment protection and give them greater visibility. The Indo-French Year of the Environment over the period 2021-2022 would be based on five main themes: (1) Environmental protection; (2) Climate change; (3) Biodiversity conservation; (4) Sustainable urban development; (5) Development of renewable energies and energy efficiency. It is also a platform for engaging in discussions on critical areas of collaboration relating to the environment and allied areas. From the Indian side, it will be coordinated by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) along with the Ministry of External Affairs, Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, and other concerned Ministries/Departments/Organisations. A joint screening committee will also be set up to finalize the calendar of the events for the Indo-French Year of the Environment. Note:  India-France alliance is the main pillar of the International Solar Alliance launched by India. The Gaganyaan orbital spacecraft project was kicked started in August 2018. It originally intended to send an astronaut from Indian soil to mark the 75th anniversary of the country’s independence in 2022. Test flights will carry an instrumented humanoid robot. The capsule will orbit at an altitude of 400 kilometres for seven days before splashing down in the Arabian Sea off the coast of Ahmedabad. Connecting the Dots: Discuss how India-France relationship has evolved over time. Outline major aspects. India stands to benefit by deepening ties with France- a partner that shares its ideals of multilateralism, pluralism and a non-military, deterrence-based policy. Elucidate.