Feb 23, 2022 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 23rd February 2022

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Lugansk and Donetsk territories to be recognised as independent Part of: Prelims and GS-II International Relations Context: Russian President Vladimir Putin will recognise the independence of eastern Ukraine’s separatist republics, Donetsk and Lugansk territories. Key takeaways  Earlier, the rebel leaders of eastern Ukraine’s separatist Donetsk and Lugansk territories had appealed to Mr. Putin to recognise them as independent. The conflict in the separatist regions began in 2014, when rebels loyal to Russia seized government buildings in Donetsk and Luhansk, beginning a long trench war with Ukrainian forces.  More than 13,000 people have died in fighting in the region since. Implication: Russia’s recognition of the two regions could allow separatist leaders to request military help from Russia, further easing a path for a military offensive into Ukraine. Ukraine would likely interpret that as Russian troops entering Ukrainian territory. The decision also means that Minsk peace process will come to an end. The Minsk 1 and II accords, reached in 2014 and 2015, had brought a ceasefire between the Russian-backed rebels in Donetsk and Luhansk Oblasts, and put forward a formula for resolving the conflict. News Source: TH Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline Part of: Prelims and GS-II International Relations  Context: Germany has taken steps to halt the process of certifying the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline from Russia after Russia announced that it will recognise the independence of eastern Ukraine’s separatist republics, Donetsk and Lugansk territories. What is the Nord Stream 2 pipeline? In 2015, the Russian energy major Gazprom and five other European firms decided to build Nord Stream 2, valued at around $11 billion.  The 1,200-km pipeline will run from Russia to Germany through the Baltic Sea, and will carry 55 billion cubic metres of gas per year. The under-construction pipeline will run along with the already completed Nord Stream 1 system, and the two together will supply an aggregate of 110 billion cubic metres of gas to Germany per year.  Nord Stream 2 pipeline falls in the territory of EU members Germany and Denmark, and is about 98% complete Source: The Economist News Source: TH Draft ‘India Data Accessibility and Use Policy ’ Part of: Prelims and GS-II Polity & Governance Context: The IT ministry has come out with a draft policy that proposes a framework for government-to-government data sharing. It also plans that all data for every government department or organisation shall be open and shareable by default, with riders. The draft ‘India Data Accessibility and Use Policy’ circulated for public consultation will be applicable to all data and information created, generated and collected by the government directly or through ministries, departments and authorised agencies. The policy aims to ‘radically transform’ India’s ability to harness public sector data.  News Source: TH Fundamental Duties Part of: Prelims and GS-II Fundamental Duty Context: The Supreme Court asked the Union and the State governments to respond to a petition to enforce the fundamental duties of citizens, including patriotism and unity of the nation, through “comprehensive, well-defined laws”. Important Value addition Background: The Fundamental Duties were incorporated in Part IV-A of the Constitution by the Constitution 42nd Amendment Act, 1976, during Emergency under Indira Gandhi’s government.  The amendment came at a time when elections stood suspended and civil liberties curbed. Today, there are 11 Fundamental Duties described under Article 51-A, of which 10 were introduced by the 42nd Amendment and the 11th was added by the 86th Amendment in 2002, during Atal Bihari Vajpayee’s government. Status: These are statutory duties, not enforceable by law, but a court may take them into account while adjudicating on a matter. Objective: The idea behind their incorporation was to emphasise the obligation of the citizen in exchange for the Fundamental Rights that he or she enjoys. The concept of Fundamental Duties is taken from the Constitution of Russia. Some of the duties are? To abide by the constitution and respect its ideals and institutions, the National Flag and the National Anthem To cherish and follow the noble ideals which inspired our national struggle for freedom To uphold and protect the sovereignty, unity and integrity of India — it is one of the preeminent national obligations of all the citizens of India. To defend the country and render national service when called upon to do so News Source: TH (PIB) International Mother Language Day: 21st February Extension of PM Cares for Children Scheme Part of: Prelims Under:  The Ministry of Women and Child Development The objective of the scheme is to ensure comprehensive care and protection of children who have lost their parent(s) to COVID pandemic, in a sustained manner, enable their wellbeing through health insurance, empower them through education and equip them for self-sufficient existence with financial support on reaching 23 years of age.   The scheme inter-alia provides support to these children through convergent approach, gap funding for ensuring education, health, monthly stipend from the age of 18 years, and lump sum amount of Rs. 10 lakhs on attaining 23 years of age. The scheme covers all children who have lost:  Both parents Or Surviving parent  or legal guardian/adoptive parents/single adoptive parent due to COVID 19 pandemic, starting from 11.03.2020 the date on which WHO has declared and characterized COVID-19 as pandemic till 28.02.2022.  To be entitled to benefits under this scheme Child should not have completed 18 years of age on the date of death of parents. News Source: PIB (Mains Focus) INTERNATIONAL/ SECURITY GS-2: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests. Examining the Russia-China axis Context: Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to China as well as the Ukraine crisis have turned the spotlight on Russia’s relations with China.  Many in the west have blamed the Russia-China axis for emboldening Moscow’s recent moves and ensuring it will not be completely isolated in the face of western sanctions.  At the same time, Beijing has found itself walking a tightrope in its response and has so far stopped short of endorsing Russia’s actions.  What explains the current state of Russia-China relations? Last year, Russia’s Foreign Minister described relations as the “best in their entire history”.  The last Xi-Putin meeting during Winter Olympics in China, produced an ambitious and sweeping joint statement, as well as a number of energy deals, that underlined the strategic, ideological, and commercial impulses driving the relationship. On the strategic front, the statement said “new inter-State relations between Russia and China are superior to political and military alliances of the Cold War era.” It added that the relationship “has no limits” and “there are no forbidden areas of cooperation”. The biggest factor behind their current closeness is their shared discomfort with the U.S. and its allies.  The joint statement this month emphasised that point, with China supporting Russia in “opposing further enlargement of NATO and calling on the North Atlantic Alliance to abandon its ideological cold war approaches”  Russia echoed China’s opposition to “the formation of closed bloc structures and opposing camps in the Asia-Pacific region and the negative impact of the United States' Indo-Pacific strategy.”  China, for its part, said it was “sympathetic to and supports the proposals put forward by the Russian Federation to create long-term legally binding security guarantees in Europe”.  Russia returned the favour, saying it “reaffirms support for the One-China principle, confirms that Taiwan is an inalienable part of China, and opposes any forms of independence of Taiwan.” In short, both have the other’s backs on key strategic issues. This has also been reflected in growing military closeness.  China in 2014 became the first foreign buyer of the S-400 missile defence system, which India has also purchased (although there have been reported delays in delivery for reasons unknown).  Their joint exercises have also grown in scope. Chin views these exercises as the practical action to warn some countries outside the region and some neighbouring countries, like AUKUS and Quad, not to stir up trouble. There is also the ideological binding glue in shared opposition to what both countries described as the west’s “attempts to impose their own democratic standards on other countries” and “interference” by the west on human rights issues”.  Commercial ties have also been growing.  Two-way trade last year was up 35% to $147 billion, driven largely by Chinese energy imports.  Russia is China’s largest source of energy imports and second largest source of crude oil, with energy set to account for 35% of trade in 2022.  China has been Russia’s biggest trading partner for 12 consecutive years and accounts for close to 20% of Russia’s total foreign trade (Russia, on the other hand, accounts for 2% of China’s trade).  But Russia is, for China, a key market for project contracts besides energy supplies. Chinese companies signed construction project deals worth $5 billion last year — for the third straight year. How has China responded to the Ukraine crisis? Given these deep trade linkages, China does not want instability (or, for that matter, a spurt in energy prices).  That was the message from Chinese Foreign Minister on February 19, when he told the security conference in Munich that “the sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of all countries should be respected and safeguarded and that applies equally to Ukraine.”  China also outlined its preferred resolution to the current crisis - diplomatic solution and a return to the Minsk agreement.  Only two days later, that agreement was broken after President Putin ordered troops into two rebel-controlled areas (he called them “peacekeepers”) and decided to recognise the “people’s republics” of Donetsk and Luhansk. That, in of itself, showed China’s limited influence.  Mr. Putin did, however, wait for the Winter Olympics to conclude on February 20 out of possible deference to Chinese sensitivities before making his move. How is China’s actions helping Russia? China has repeatedly underlined that it is sympathetic to Russia’s concerns on NATO, which mirror its own opposition to America’s allies in the Indo-Pacific. Chinese strategists have repeatedly called the Quad an “Asian NATO”, a label which its members reject. On the possibility of Russia now coming under heavy sanctions, close cooperation between China and Russia on energy, trade, finance and science and technology is all the more important.  A strong economic cooperation with China will back up Russia to deflect ruthless economic coercion from the U.S.  Strategists in the west and in India have often questioned the robustness of the relationship as well as Russia’s possible unease at being the “junior partner” to China. But are there any signs of a divide that can be exploited (as Nixon did five decades ago)?  The evidence suggests no, and at least in the near-term, India should expect Sino-Russian closeness to continue, which poses its own challenges for India  India has to navigate the three-way dynamic amid the worst period in relations with China in more than three decades, even as Russia remains a key defence partner.  Connecting the dots: Shanghai Cooperation Organisation India and Eurasia Policy QUAD AUKUS SECURITY/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Federalism and Challenges GS-3: Internal Security Manipur Insurgency Context: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, while addressing an election rally on February 14 in Imphal West, called upon insurgency groups operating in Manipur to shun violence and come to the negotiating table.  He said that the menace of insurgency had been waning and the Centre is ready to hold dialogue with them to bring lasting peace to the region. Rise of insurgency in Manipur Insurgence rooted in Independence: The emergence of insurgency in Manipur dates back to 1964 with the formation of the United National Liberation Front (UNLF), which still remains one of the formidable militant outfits. Allegation of Forced Merger: The rise of separatist insurgency in Manipur mainly attributed to perceived discontent over alleged “forced” merger of Manipur with the Union of India and the subsequent delay in granting it full-fledged statehood.  While the erstwhile Kingdom of Manipur was merged with India on October 15, 1949, it became a state only in 1972. Rise of Valley based outfits: The later years saw a slew of militant outfits being formed, including the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), People’s Revolutionary Party of Kangleipak (PREPAK), Kangleipak Communist Party (KCP), and Kanglei Yawol Kanna Lup (KYKL), among others. These valley-based outfits have been demanding an independent Manipur. Threat to Manipur Territorial due to Nagalim demand: The Naga movement in neighbouring Nagaland spilled over into Manipur’s hill districts with the NSCN-IM controlling most of it while pressing for “Nagalim” (Greater Nagaland), which is perceived in the valley as a “threat” to Manipur’s “territorial integrity”. Nagas Vs Kukis: While the hills account for nine-tenths of Manipur’s geographical area, they are sparsely populated, with most of the state’s population concentrated in the valley. The Meitei community forms a majority in Imphal valley, while the surrounding hill districts are inhabited by Nagas and Kukis. In the early 1990s, the ethnic clashes between Nagas and Kukis led to the formation of several Kuki insurgent groups, which have now scaled down their demand from a separate Kuki state to a Territorial Council. Imposition of AFSPA: In 1980, the Centre declared the entire Manipur as a “disturbed area” and imposed the controversial Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA) to suppress the insurgency movement, which remains in force till date. Ceasefire agreement The NSCN-IM entered a ceasefire agreement with the Government of India (GoI) in 1997, even as peace talks between them have still been continuing. Similarly, the Kuki outfits under two umbrella groups, the Kuki National Organisation (KNO) and United People’s Front (UPF), also signed the tripartite Suspension of Operation (SoO) pacts with the GoI and Manipur on August 22, 2008.  Of the total 25 armed Kuki groups operating in the state, 17 are under the KNO and 8 under the United Peoples’ Front (UPF).  However, major valley-based militant outfits (Meitei groups) such as the UNLF, PLA, KYKL etc. are yet to come to the negotiating table.  Many of their smaller outfits have however entered the SoO agreement with the state government, which has launched rehabilitation programmes for such groups. Connecting the dots: Peace Process of Naga Accord Stuck  Concept of Asymmetrical Federalism (Down to Earth: Water) Feb 22: How technology can help save India’s groundwater - https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/water/how-technology-can-help-save-india-s-groundwater-81645  GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS-3: Environment; Science & Technology How technology can help save India’s groundwater Context: Groundwater has been a priceless resource for humanity for centuries. Today, technology, with local governance, offers the last chance of saving groundwater even as the world stands at a critical crossroads. Water Crisis in India As per the Groundwater Resource Estimation Committee’s report (from 2015), 1,071 out of 6,607 blocks in the country are over-exploited; this is likely to have worsened over the years. More than a third of the country’s population lives in water-stressed areas, and this number is expected to shoot up.  Per capita water availability in the country had fallen to just under a third of 1950 levels by 2011, both because of rising population and increasing unsustainable use. 82% of rural households in India do not have individual piped water supply and 163 million live without access to clean water close to their homes. Groundwater in India India is the world’s largest user of groundwater. The country’s economy is tagged to groundwater development in many ways and its inadequacy will jeopardise progress.  Tube wells, bore wells, springs and open-dug wells remain the primary source of groundwater production and abuse in India. Currently, there is a complete mismatch between available resources and the volumes of water withdrawn. Figures show that the extraction of groundwater in India, now a full-fledged industry in its own right, has shown an increase. Drilling rigs and pumps registered an annual growth of 10-12 per cent.  An additional 10 million wells were energised with submersible pumps in the last two decades.  Centrifugal pumps in domestic, institutional, commercial and entertainment sectors remain unaccounted for. Some learnings: Groundwater extraction has to be decoupled from wealth-generation if the excessive demand for groundwater has to be moderated. Groundwater use need not be made ‘evil’. However, failing to distinguish ‘need’ from ‘greed’ is criminal. Causes for groundwater contamination Industries- Manufacturing and other chemical industries require water for processing and cleaning purposes. This used water is recycled back to water sources without proper treatment. Also industrial waste is dumped in certain areas, the seepage of which results in groundwater contamination. Agriculture- the fertilizers, pesticide and other chemicals used in growing plants contaminate groundwater.  Residential areas- These generate pollutants (microorganisms and organic compounds) for groundwater contamination Mining- Mine drain discharge, oilfield spillage, sludge and process water also contaminate groundwater. Coastal areas- Saltwater intrusion increases the salinity of groundwater in nearby areas. Excessive extraction- It increases the concentration of minerals in the extracted areas, thus making it contaminated. How technology can help save India’s groundwater? Integration of technology, ecology and livelihood is critical to the overall sustainability of groundwater. Technology can help in ‘decision-making’ on economic and social priorities related to groundwater use. Technology-guided decision-making would help distinguish groundwater abuse and promote efficient use. Automated decision-making is one aspect that needs to be adopted as an integral part of groundwater extraction. We need to enable technologies to simulate appropriate human responses. Smart pumps should form part of automation at the basic well level. Sensors and decision-making tools must be integrated with the pump design to make them intelligent.  Analysis of millions of wells’ data in real-time needs to be supported by big-data analytics, cloud computing and real-time modelling with forecasting tools.   Technology to automate water extraction systems should be adopted at the earliest and be completely automated five years after notification. All existing tube well owners should be required to upgrade to the new technology. All new wells should integrate automation during construction. Industries, farms, residential complexes, commercial establishments with multiple wells with bulk extraction should implement automation within six months of notification. Individual households, small farms, schools, public institutions need to be incentivised to adopt automation and conform to water extraction norms. The cost of automation to the well owners should not pinch the pocket, ideally matching the basic smartphone price. Automation advantages Adopting artificial intelligence (AI) will help make decisions and visualise emerging scenarios for pro-active governance. For instance, smart sensors in different appliances and Internet of Things (the interconnection via the internet of computing devices embedded in everyday objects, enabling them to send and receive data) shall enable visibility of data of consequence. Data from millions of nodes (wells) can be analysed simultaneously in a decentralised fashion. Owners can be notified and decisions implemented simultaneously across India. Data from all nodes shall aggregate at the cloud servers for advanced regional analysis. Groundwater use through automation, be it for agriculture, industry, commerce, sports, entertainment and domestic use, will be forced to adhere to water footprint norms on daily and annual consumption. Zettabytes of data traffic flow shall enable daily audit of water balance at the well, watershed, aquifer and river basin scale.    Big data analytics, combined with AI, shall transform governance into a practice of national behaviour for protecting the common property resource under threat. Technology-guided decision-making would help distinguish groundwater abuse and promote efficient use. Additionally, this would ensure the safekeeping of groundwater within aquifers for posterity. The Way Forward Make it mandatory for all energised pumping wells to integrate sensors and decision-making tools to help curb wastage and contamination.   Privately financed wells, pumps, conveyance pipes, storage reservoirs, drips, sprinklers as well as treatment plants installed by millions of ordinary citizens and institutions have already built an efficient decentralised supply chain. Attaching additional technology to the existing investment is the first step in reducing wastage, improving efficiency and self-governance. Appropriate policy interventions in regulating further constructions and ensuring retention of 50 per cent of the resource within the aquifers can only help in its sustenance. Groundwater remains the only natural resource that offers free access to all. For the poor, this has ensured economic growth, combined with social mobility. Groundwater cannot be allowed to fail.  NOTE: Groundwater Mapping Latest state-of-the-art technology is being employed by Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) for mapping ground water sources in arid regions and thus help utilize ground water for drinking to supplement “Har Ghar Nal Se Jal” scheme. The entire work will be completed by 2025 with more than 1.5 lakh square kilometers of area with an estimated cost of Rs. 141 Crores.  Can you answer the following questions? Examine the problem of groundwater contamination in India’s agrarian states. What are the possible ways to address this challenge? Discuss. Nitrate pollution of groundwater is an issue of serious concern in many parts of India. What causes nitrogen pollution of groundwater? What are its associated health hazards. Also discuss the remedial measures to address this problem. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) `Q.1 Consider the following statements: More than a third of the country’s population lives in water-stressed areas, and this number is expected to shoot up.  82% of rural households in India do not have individual piped water supply and 163 million live without access to clean water close to their homes. Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  Q.2 Which of the following countries are associated with Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline France and Germany Germany and Russia USA, UK and Germany UK and Germany  Q.3 Fundamental duties are incorporated in Which of the following part? Part IV Part III Part IVA Part II ANSWERS FOR 23rd Feb 2022 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 B 3 C Must Read On farm reforms: Indian Express On analysis of Budget: Indian Express

Feb 23, 2022 TLP Mains Answer Writing

IASbaba’s Think Learn Perform (TLP - Phase 1) 2022 - UPSC Mains Answer Writing General Studies Paper 3 Questions [23rd February, 2022] – Day 24

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Everyone,  TLP being an integral formula for success for many toppers over the years including Rank 1 is no secret. In their ‘must to-do' list for the UPSC Civil Services Mains Examination, TLP by far occupies the first place. The popularity stems from the unparalleled quality of questions and synopsis posted in TLP. We strive hard to ensure that you get the real feel of UPSC standard before you write the actual Mains. You already know the features of TLP. Just to reiterate briefly, we will post 3 questions daily for a certain number of weeks (12 for this one). We follow a micro plan that is designed to give you daily targets. The questions are from the day’s syllabus and also from current affairs and you are expected to write the answers and post them on the portal. From this year we have integrated the TLP free answer writing page in the main website itself, unlike previous years. So all the answers should be posted under the questions for the evaluation. Join our bandwagon, you won’t regret it. To Know More about TLP  -> CLICK HERE Note: Click on Each Question (Link), it will open in a new tab and then Answer respective questions! 1. What is the significance of fisheries for India’s coastal economy? What further potential does commercial fishing hold as part of food processing and related commerce? Discuss. (10 Marks)  भारत की तटीय अर्थव्यवस्था के लिए मत्स्य पालन का क्या महत्व है? खाद्य प्रसंस्करण और संबंधित वाणिज्य के अंतर्गत  मत्स्य पालन की और क्या संभावनाएं हैं? चर्चा करें। 2. The disruption of food supply logistics during the COVID pandemic has necessitated the expansion and upgradation of existing supply chains. Comment. What will be the overall economic impact of such expansion? Examine. (10 Marks) कोविड महामारी के दौरान खाद्य आपूर्ति लॉजिस्टिक्स में व्यवधान ने मौजूदा आपूर्ति श्रृंखलाओं के विस्तार और उन्नयन को आवश्यक बना दिया है। टिप्पणी करें। इस तरह के विस्तार का समग्र आर्थिक प्रभाव क्या होगा? जांच।करें। 3. Discuss the primary factors responsible for India’s coal crisis. What short-term measures can be taken to address the crisis? What long-term measures would you recommend to address the crisis sustainably? (15 Marks) भारत के कोयला संकट के लिए उत्तरदायी प्राथमिक कारकों की विवेचना कीजिए। संकट से निपटने के लिए कौन से अल्पकालिक उपाय किए जा सकते हैं? संकट को स्थायी रूप से संबोधित करने के लिए आप किन दीर्घकालिक उपायों की सिफारिश करेंगे? P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time 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 :)

Feb 23, 2022 हिन्दी - Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC हिन्दी Quiz– 2021: IASbaba Daily Current Affairs Quiz 23rd February 2022

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE करेंट अफेयर्स के प्रश्न 'द हिंदू', 'इंडियन एक्सप्रेस' और 'पीआईबी' जैसे स्रोतों पर आधारित होते हैं, जो यूपीएससी प्रारंभिक परीक्षा के लिए बहुत महत्वपूर्ण स्रोत हैं। प्रश्न अवधारणाओं और तथ्यों दोनों पर केंद्रित हैं। दोहराव से बचने के लिए यहां कवर किए गए विषय आम तौर पर 'दैनिक करंट अफेयर्स / डेली न्यूज एनालिसिस (डीएनए) और डेली स्टेटिक क्विज' के तहत कवर किए जा रहे विषयों से भिन्न होते हैं। प्रश्न सोमवार से शनिवार तक दोपहर 2 बजे से पहले प्रकाशित किए जाएंगे। इस कार्य में आपको 10 मिनट से ज्यादा नहीं देना है। इस कार्य के लिए तैयार हो जाएं और इस पहल का इष्टतम तरीके से उपयोग करें। याद रखें कि, "साधारण अभ्यर्थी और चयनित होने वाले अभ्यर्थी के बीच का अंतर केवल दैनक अभ्यास है !!" Important Note: Comment अनुभाग में अपने अंक पोस्ट करना न भूलें। साथ ही, हमें बताएं कि क्या आपको आज का टेस्ट अच्छा लगा । 5 प्रश्नों को पूरा करने के बाद, अपना स्कोर, समय और उत्तर देखने के लिए ‘View Questions’ पर क्लिक करें। उत्तर देखने के लिए, इन निर्देशों का पालन करें: 1 - 'स्टार्ट टेस्ट/ Start Test' बटन पर क्लिक करें प्रश्न हल करें 'टेस्ट सारांश/Test Summary'बटन पर क्लिक करें 'फिनिश टेस्ट/Finish Test'बटन पर क्लिक करें अब ‘View Questions’बटन पर क्लिक करें - यहां आपको उत्तर और लिंक दिखाई देंगे। To take the Test - Click Here

Feb 23, 2022 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 23rd February 2022

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

Feb 22, 2022 TLP Mains Answer Writing

SYNOPSIS [22nd February,2021] Day 23: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE SYNOPSIS [22nd February,2021] Day 23: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. With the help of suitable examples, explain the significance of parliamentary committees for the effective functioning of the legislature.  Approach-  Candidates need to write about Parliamentary committees and it’s constitutional role. Also as question demands highlight the role of PSC for effectively functioning of the legislature with suitable examples.  Introduction  The Parliamentary committees are established to study and deal with various matters that cannot be directly handled by the legislature due to their volume. They monitor the functioning of the executive branch and provide legislature with various policy input, playing an important role in Indian democracy. Body  Significance of parliamentary committee for effective functional of legislature: Ensures all parties voice their opinion: All committees have MPs representing different parties, in roughly the same proportion as their strength in Parliament Feedback from multiple stakeholders: When bills are referred to these committees, they are examined closely and inputs are sought from various external stakeholders, including the public. They help in reshaping institutions which may not be functioning as required . For example Parliamentary committee on Medical Commission of India.  Less burden of populist posture: By virtue of being closed-door and away from the public eye, discussions in committee meetings are also more collaborative, with MPs feeling less pressured to posture for media galleries. For example, the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, overhauling the 1986 law. An earlier version of the Bill had been examined by the Committee on Food and Consumer Affairs.  Put pressure on government: Although committee recommendations are not binding on the government, their reports create a public record of the consultations that took place and put pressure on the government to reconsider its stand on debatable provisions. Scrutiny of public funds: The Public Accounts Committee scrutinize the government accounts and the report of the Comptroller and Auditor-General of India. Thus reduce chance of misspending and also validate government’s spending statistics. For example JPC formed on the 2G scam, Coal scam have helped assess violations made by the executive.  Ensure answerability: The Committee on Government Assurances committee scrutinize the various assurances, promises, undertakings, etc., given by ministers, from time to time report on the extent to which such assurances have been implemented. They verify the promises made in parliament by the executive to their actual course of action eg. Committee on Government Assurances.  Expertise: Committees allow use of input and suggestions of various expertise on subject matter of law thereby helping to formulate better policies and laws. For example, the Committee on Health and Family Welfare studied the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016. Conclusion Committees have substantially impacted Parliament’s efficacy in discharging its roles, their performance affects the Parliament as an institution that makes laws, holds the Government accountable, and gives sanction for public spending, still there is scope for strengthening the Committee system for overall effectiveness of Indian parliamentary system. 2. Compare and contrast the emergency provisions of the Indian constitution vis a vis that of Canada.  Approach  Students are expected to write about the emergency provision in India and then simply compare and contrast emergency provisions of Canada and India.  Introduction  The emergency provisions have been contained in Part XVIII of the Indian constitution, from Articles 352 to 360. The rationale was to enable the central government to deal with abnormal situations and thus help safeguard integrity and sovereignty of India. Body  Canada invoked the Emergencies Act, to be used for the first time in the country, in a bid to end the anti-vaccine mandate protests taking place across the country and blocking parts of the capital Ottawa. Comparison and contrast emergency provision of the India and Canada: The Emergencies Act of Canada can be invoked in parts depending upon the emergencies. The act covers four emergencies: public welfare emergency, public order emergency, war emergency and international emergency. The Indian constitution stipulates three types of emergencies National Emergency, Constitutional Emergency and Financial Emergency.  The Emergencies Act has been invoked for the first time in Canada. Article 352 emergency has been proclaimed three times so far- in 1962, 1971 and 1975. Under article 360 financial emergency never was imposed in India despite economic recession or any other financial crisis.  The Emergencies Act of Canada can be invoked in parts depending upon the emergencies.  This emergency in India can be imposed either for the whole of India or could be restricted to certain territories (42nd amendment act).  The application of the Public Order Emergency in Canada expires after 30 days of its declaration unless it has already been revoked or the decision to continue it has been taken in accordance with the act.  The Parliament also has the right to revoke the act. Also, any regulations or orders passed under the act can be challenged in Canadian courts. In India Emergency can be revoked at any time by the President by passing a subsequent proclamation to this effect. If approved by both the houses, the Emergency continues for 6 months and can be extended to an indefinite period with an approval of the Parliament for every six months. While a proclamation of Emergency is in force, the normal fabric of the Centre-State relations undergoes a basic change.  Canada- Emergency can be declared by provincial, territorial and municipal governments. India- Declared by President on the advice of executive. Conclusion Thus, it can be concluded that the emergency provision vary from one country to other depending on the political setup. It is observed that unitary polity/constitutions like the India empowers the national government to proclaim emergency while federal polity like Canada empowers the provincial and local governments to declare emergency as well. Our emergency provisions are in conformity with the quasi federal nature of our polity with substantial safeguards to prevent abuse. 3. What are the recent initiatives announced by the government to address the challenge of NPAs in the banking sector? Explain.  Approach- Candidates need to write about the attitude and then elucidate how attitude matters though being little things or mental construct it makes big difference. Introduction As per the economic survey 2022, Banks have weathered the pandemic better than expected with non-performing assets (NPAs) lesser than prior to Covid and its resultant lockdowns. At the same time restructured loans have also increased due to the various dispensations offered to support businesses as a result of which there could still be a lagged impact of distress on their assets as the economic impact plays out. The recent initiatives announced by the government to address the challenge of NPAs in the banking sector  The government has approved providing Rs 30,600 crore as state guarantee for the security receipts issued by the bad bank, National Asset Reconstruction Company Ltd (NARCL).  This government guarantee mechanism will be paving the way to operationalise the country's first bad bank in which majority 51 per cent stake is held by public sector banks. This guarantee will allow banks to transfer their non-performing assets (NPAs) to NARCL, which will buy the stressed assets on payment of 15 per cent of the amount in cash and the balance 85 per cent in security receipts; the move will reduce bad loans on the books of banks, The government also announced the setting up of a 'bad bank', including an asset reconstruction company and asset management company to take over the existing stressed debt of banks.  The bad bank will be a bank set up to buy the bad loans and other illiquid holdings of another financial institution. NARCL and the Indian Debt Resolution Company Ltd, or IDRCL, are both part of the plans of the government to address the issue of bad loans on the books of banks. The latter will manage the assets and help resolve the debt.  The creation of the two, an asset reconstruction company (NARCL) and an asset management company (IDRCL) was announced. It is expected that the asset management company – India Debt Resolution Company Ltd (IDRCL) – will resolve stressed assets worth ₹2 lakh crore in five years. The bad bank structure will assist in consolidation of debt, currently fragmented across various lenders, thus leading to faster, single-point decision making, including through Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) processes. It will incentivise quicker action on resolving stressed assets, thereby helping in better value realisation.  This approach will also permit freeing up the management bandwidth of banks to focus on increasing business and credit growth. As the holders of these stressed assets and SRs, banks will receive the gains.  The government’s guarantee will also enhance liquidity of SRs as these are tradable, this basically means banks can sell these down to the market. Conclusion While it is necessary to pump in more money in to the system to help sustain businesses and to boost the economy, it is also equally a necessity to keep bad loans at bay. Bad loans lead to higher NPAs over time, so due diligence has to be observed when offering funds.    TLP Synopsis Day 23 PDF

Feb 22, 2022 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 22nd February 2022

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Corbevax Part of: Prelims and GS-II Health Context: The Drugs Controller General of India ( DCGI) has given emergency use authorisation (EUA) to vaccine maker Biological E’s COVID-19 vaccine “Corbevax” for the 12- 18 age group. Key takeaways  It is the first indigenously developed Receptor Binding Domain Protein sub-unit vaccine against COVID-19. It means it is made up of a specific part of SARS-CoV-2 - the spike protein on the virus’s surface. The spike protein allows the virus to enter the cells in the body so that it can replicate and cause disease. However, when this protein alone is given to the body, it is not expected to be harmful as the rest of the virus is absent. The body is expected to develop an immune response against the injected spike protein. Therefore, when the real virus attempts to infect the body, it will already have an immune response ready that will make it unlikely for the person to fall severely ill. The vaccine is administered through an intramuscular route with two doses scheduled 28 days apart and is stored at 2 to 8 degrees Celsius. Emergency Use Authorization (EUA)  It is a regulatory mechanism to allow the use of vaccines and medicines to prevent and/or reduce the impact of life- threatening diseases or conditions as caused by COVID-19. About Drugs Controller General of India  S/he is the head of department of the Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSO) of the Government of India. Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation works in close collaboration with the state control administration and assist them in securing uniform enforcement of the Drug Act. Responsible for approval of licences of specified categories of drugs such as blood and blood products, IV fluids, vaccines, and sera in India. DCGI also sets standards for manufacturing, sales, import, and distribution of drugs in India. Comes under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. News Source: TH Undersea cable voyage Part of: Prelims and GS-III Technology  Context: Bharti Airtel has announced it had joined the SEA-ME-WE-6 undersea cable consortium to scale up the high-speed network for India's emerging digital economy, as a major investor. Key takeaways  The 19,200 Rkm (route kilometres) SEA-ME-WE-6 will connect Singapore and France. It will be among the largest undersea cable system globally.  The 12 other consortium members of SEA-ME-WE-6 include Bangladesh Submarine Cable Company, Dhiraagu (Maldives), Djibouti Telecom, Mobily (Saudi Arabia), Orange (France), Singtel (Singapore), Sri Lanka Telecom, Telecom Egypt, Telekom Malaysia, and Telin (Indonesia).  Bharti will co-build four fiber pairs between Singapore – Chennai – Mumbai. Reliance Reliance Jio said it would land its India-Asia-Xpress (IAX) undersea cable system in Maldives. The high-capacity and high-speed IAX system will connect Hulhumale directly with World’s major internet hubs in India and Singapore. IAX system is expected to be ready for service by the end of 2023. The service provider claims that these high capacity and high-speed systems will provide more than 200Tb/s of capacity at speeds of 100Gb/s, over 16,000 kilometers  News Source: TH Night pollinators Part of: Prelims and GS-III Science and technology  Context: Recently, a new study has revealed that moths (especially nocturnal pollinators) are vital to pollination in the Himalayan ecosystem of northeast India. Key Highlights of the study The study establishes 91 species of moths as potential pollinators of 21 plant families in Sikkim and Arunachal Pradesh in the northeastern Himalayas. The results assume significance as a majority of the pollination-related studies are based on diurnal pollinators (bees and butterflies) and the role of nocturnal pollinators have so far received less scientific attention. Teliphasa sp. (Crambidae) and Cuculia sp. (Noctuidae) are found to carry the highest quantity of pollen. About Moths Moths are a paraphyletic group of insects that includes all members of the order Lepidoptera that are not butterflies, with moths making up the vast majority of the order.  Generally moths are considered mysterious denizens of nights, and for a long time they were better known as pest species. There are about 12,000 moth species in India and about 160,000 moth species in the world, and the study can go a long way in understanding the role of the nocturnal insect pollinators. Compared with butterflies, moths have stouter bodies and duller colouring.  Moths also have distinctive feathery or thick antennae. The moth life cycle has four stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult (imago).  The larvae and adults of most moth species are plant eaters. News Source: TH (PIB) Umbrella scheme of Border Infrastructure & Management (BIM) Part of: Mains GS-3: Security challenges and their management in border areas In News: The Modi Government has approved the continuation of the Central Sector Umbrella Scheme of “Border Infrastructure and Management” (BIM) over the 15th Finance Commission Cycle from 2021-22 to 2025-26. Will strengthen the border infrastructure for improving border management, policing and guarding the borders. Help in the creation of infrastructure such as construction of border fence, border flood lights, technological solutions, border roads and Border Outposts (BOPs)/Company Operating Bases (COBs) to secure the Indo-Pakistan, Indo-Bangladesh, Indo-China, Indo-Nepal, Indo-Bhutan and Indo-Myanmar borders. Significance of border infrastructure: India’s land border covers around 15,106 km sharing boundaries with Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Myanmar. Varied terrains, climatic conditions and hostile neighbours make its borders complex and border management an important part of its security. The major border security challenges: cross-border terrorism, infiltration and exfiltration of armed militants and insurgents, narcotics and arms smuggling; illegal migration; left-wing extremism and separatist movements aided by external powers. Various strategies:  India has actively pursued the strategy of strengthening of border policing and guarding, creation of border infrastructure like roads, fencing and flood lighting on the borders, implementation of the Coastal Security Scheme to strengthen coastal security infrastructure, implementation of Border Area Development Programme and development of Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) on the land borders of the country including setting up of Land Ports Authority of India (LPAI). Economic Advantages of border road infrastructure: One of the most important advantages is development of legal and amicable trade relations with neighbouring countries. Examples of it are trade through Attari-Wagha border and Border Haats with Bangladesh and many more with Nepal, Bhutan, etc. Proper border road infra will reduce trafficking and smuggling, which is currently a big cause concern for India and neighbouring countries. There is huge untapped regional trade potential in South Asia, where most of the countries share borders with India. Another major economic benefit is inclusive growth and development. Border road infrastructure, especially in harsh terrains such as northeast and Jammu & Kashmir provides avenue for self-employment and boost to traditional small scale Industries. Furthermore, tourism in beautiful and lofty Himalayas has not reached to its full potential due to improper road infrastructure. To tap full potential of natural tourism avenues we must further improve our border road infra. Strategic Advantages of border road infrastructure: One of the major advantages is that through border road infra India will be successful in pushing for her ambitious neighbourhood first and act east policies. It will act as soft power in terms of creating people to people contacts. Best example of this is the most recent project of Kartarpur Corridor. Border road infra helps in maintaining peace and stability by controlling the security concerns related to inter-region and intra-region issues. The task of national integration which started with independence of India and still going on will be incomplete without border road infra. Connectivity and inclusivity are the important tools for national integration of far-flung areas such as Northeastern states and Ladakh, etc. Economic avenues provided by such infra definitely leads to strategic benefits within and outside country to control menace of terrorism and secessionists’ activities. Another important advantage of border roads is in proper and swift disaster management. Difficult and harsh terrains of Indian borders and relatively low development of bordering countries make it inevitable for India to prepared and self-sufficient to handle any kind of disasters. Challenges ahead: Rough and difficult terrain Weather and Climatic conditions Seismically active areas in most of the border Cease fire violation and border intrusions Inadequate manpower, funds with Border Road organisation (BRO) Redtapism and bureaucratic delays in projects India in geostrategic location: Strategic location of the region: Countries of this region share borders with China, Afghanistan, Russia and Iran. Tajikistan is located in proximity to the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This region is seen as a Eurasian bridge, connecting countries of Asia to Europe. India-Pakistan: Pakistan has a geostrategic location in South Asia where it will use Gwadar Port as a major trade route and a future trade hub. The importance of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and with it the Belt and Road Initiative, also known as the One Belt One Road or the Silk Road Economic Belt India- China: One is Aksai Chin, a virtually uninhabited high-altitude desert expanse of about 37,000 square kilometres. Aksai Chin lies between the Indian state of Jammu and Kashmir, and China’s Xinjiang province, both regions that are also riven by separatist conflicts. On the other side, Arunachal Pradesh, a diversely populated hill region with a population of around 1.4 million people spread out over 84,000 square kilometres is also a geostrategic location. India- Nepal: holds a significant geopolitical position in the Himalayan region of the South Asia due to its geostrategic location acting as a buffer state between the two Asian giants- India and the China.  India- Bhutan: It is a sandwiched between two powerful nations, India and China. Because of its proximity to both the countries. India, is a close neighbour, has traditionally played a significant role in Bhutan. On the other hand Doklam plateau is an area with a plateau and a valley which lies on the Bhutan-China border, near India. India-Myanmar: The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project will connect the eastern Indian seaport of Kolkata with Sittwe seaport in Myanmar by sea. Major strategic and commercial transport route connecting North-East India, and South Asia as a whole, to Southeast Asia India- Bangladesh: Lying between the Himalayas in the north and the Bay of Bengal in the south, it offers the only land route connecting the two regions. Any invasion into South Asia from the East must pass through Bangladesh. Bangladesh’s close proximity to both India and China adds further to its geographic importance. News Source: PIB Freedom fighter and social worker Shakuntala Choudhary passes away Part of: GS-1: Modern Indian History; Important personalities A 102-year-old Gandhian social worker and freedom fighter Hailing from Assam's Kamrup, she worked for the wellbeing of villagers, especially women and children, and was popularly known as 'Shakuntala Baideo'. Earlier this year, she was named a Padma Shri award recipient by the Government of India. Had joined the Kasturba Gandhi National Memorial Trust (KGNMT) in 1947 in Assam. In Assam, this Trust is known as the Kasturba Ashram or the Sarania Ashram, which Gandhi inaugurated in 1946. She was a close associate of Vinayak Narahari 'Vinoba' Bhave, the man who started the Bhoodan Movement, and travelled with him to the rural parts of Assam and translated his lectures from Hindi to Assamese. She also led the Bhoodan Movement in Assam and was also associated with the 'Ban Cow Slaughter Satyagraha', which Bhave started in 1978.  Shakuntala Choudhary has also left her mark in the field of linguistics. She founded a monthly magazine 'Asomiya Vishwa Nagari' in Devanagari script to promote Devanagari. The magazine is still published, and it focuses on Gandhian ideals, thoughts, and spirituality. News Source: PIB MISCELLANEOUS Birthplace of India's Purple Revolution (Aroma Mission): Doda; Lavender designated as Doda brand product Rural Connectivity GIS Data GIS Data for 800,000+ rural facilities, 1 Million+ habitations and 25,00,000 km+ of rural roads collected and digitised using GIS platform will be made available to the public Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) was launched in the year 2000, with an objective to provide all-weather road connectivity to eligible unconnected habitations throughout the nation. Later on upgradation and consolidation of through routes and major rural links was also included as its objective to give fillip to the rural economy (Mains Focus) GOVERNANCE/ ECONOMY GS-2: Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies. GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. NSE Controversy: Need for Corporate Governance Reforms  Context: Recent allegation of Corporate governance transgression by NSE management, particularly its former Chairman Chitra Ramakrishna. What is the controversy all about? Sharing of Confidential information with unknown Spiritual Guru Market regulator SEBI recently stated in its order that Chitra Ramkrishna, a former chairperson of the National Stock Exchange was manipulated by a “Siddha Purusha/Yogi (an unidentified spiritual guru) and allegedly provided him confidential company information including the NSE’s five year projections, financial data, dividend ratio, business plans, agenda of board meetings and also consulted him on employee annual appraisals. Appointment without due Process Ms. Ramkrishna also appointed an individual, Anand Subramanian, first as chief strategic adviser and, next, as group operating officer without following due process, allegedly on the advice of this “spiritual person”. Mr. Subramanian lacked the credentials for the job, the position was not advertised and Mr. Subramanian was interviewed solely by Ms. Chitra Ramkrishna.  He was recruited on a salary that was more than 10 times what he last drew and his salary was frequently revised without any evaluation being recorded.  Mr. Subramanian was hired as a consultant and progressively given operational powers until he became virtual second-in-command in the NSE hierarchy. Ms. Ramkrishna ensured he was not designated as a key management person as that would have meant bringing Mr. Subramanian within the ambit of regulation.  Tax angle The income tax department is now probing possibilities of fund diversion to overseas accounts and possible tax evasion as they found frequent personal and official travel to tax havens like Singapore, Mauritius and Seychelles just before and after Chitra Ramkrishna's exit from NSE. Co-Location Case CBI is also probing allegations that certain brokers (like OPG Securities Pvt. Ltd), in conspiracy with unknown officials of NSE, were given preferential access to NSE's co-location facility during the period 2010-2012 that enabled it to login first to the exchange server of Stock Exchange. This in turn helped these brokers to get the data before any other broker in the market. Even if the time advantage was limited to a split second such an  advantage can result in windfall gains.  According to tax officials, these traders made gains to the tune of Rs 50,000 crore  CBI has also issued a look-out circular against Chitra Ramkrishna, former NSE CEO Ravi Narain and the exchange's former COO Anand Subramanian in order to prevent them from leaving the country. Ineffective Board After the NSE board was informed about the irregularities in Mr. Subramanian’s appointment, it discussed the matter but chose to keep the discussions out of the minutes on grounds of confidentiality and the sensitivity of the matter.  Despite being aware of Ms. Ramkrishna’s transgressions, it allowed her to resign and on generous terms instead of taking action against her.  Public Interest Directors (PIDs) failed to keep SEBI informed about the goings-on at the NSE.  How did all this happen and how could it have gone on for so long?  The answers lie in the culture of the corporate world and the board room.  NSE rakes in enormous profits. In such a situation, boards would tend to think they can live with a degree of nepotism and other human failings in the CEO. For instance: ‘She’s doing a great job, she’s entitled to pick her team.’ Such an attitude may lead to governance failures at times. The problem of dysfunctional or ineffective boards is structural. It has to do partly with the way board members are selected and partly with the absence of penalties where directors do not live up to their mandate. What measures are required? Reforming the selection of Board members If we are to bring about meaningful change, we need to bring in diversity in the selection of board members.  The top management must be allowed to choose not more than 50% of the independent directors. The rest must be chosen by various other stakeholders — financial institutions, banks, small shareholders, employees, etc. Then, we will have independent directors who are not beholden to the top management for their jobs. They will be accountable, not to the top management, but to stakeholders who have appointed them.  Ensure Accountability (including that of regulators) for lapses In the NSE case, SEBI has penalised Ravi Narain who happened to be vice chairman. Mr. Narain has made the point that there is no reason why he should be singled out as the board of NSE was collectively responsible.  Regulators must penalise errant directors through a whole range of instruments — strictures, financial penalties, removal from boards and a permanent ban from board membership.  Lastly, regulators themselves must be held to account. For instance, questions have been raised as to why SEBI did not seek the help of the cyber police to ascertain the identity of the yogi. We need periodic independent audits of all regulators by a panel of eminent persons. The audits must evaluate the regulators’ performance in relation to their objectives. The internal processes and governance mechanisms of regulators must be subjected to the glare of public scrutiny. It is vital to guard the guardians.  Conclusion Outrage after particular episodes will not take us very far. We need significant institutional reform if corporate governance is not to remain an illusion.  Can you answer these questions now? What factors led to the recent controversy of National Stock Exchange? What measures are needed to prevent such issues from repeating? What is the mandate of SEBI? Examine the recent issues pertaining to the functioning and role of SEBI in the regulatory context.  SCIENCE & TECH/ GOVERNANCE GS-3: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life.  Non Fungible Token (NFTs) Context: Non fungible tokens (NFTs) have, thanks to their ability to assign value to everything from art to music to a simple selfie, taken the world by storm. The sales of NFTs surged $25 billion in 2021 as the crypto asset exploded in popularity, fuelled by the rising interest of celebrities and tech evangelists. Where Bitcoin was hailed as the digital answer to currency, NFTs are now being touted as the digital answer to collectables, but plenty of sceptics fear they're a bubble waiting to burst. What is a non-fungible token?  In economics, a fungible asset is something with units that can be readily interchanged - like money. With money, one can swap a £10 note for two £5 notes and it will have the same value. However, if something is non-fungible, this is impossible - it means it has unique properties so it can't be interchanged with something else. It could be a house, or a painting such as the Mona Lisa, which is one of a kind. One can take a photo of the painting or buy a print but there will only ever be one original painting. What are NFTs? NFTs are "one-of-a-kind" assets in the digital world that can be bought and sold like any other piece of property, but which have no tangible form of their own.  The digital tokens can be thought of as certificates of ownership for virtual or physical assets. Anything that can be converted into a digital form can be an NFT. Everything from your drawings, photos, videos, GIF, music, in-game items, selfies, and even a tweet can be turned into an NFT, which can then be traded online using cryptocurrency. But what makes NFTs unique from other digital forms is that it is backed by Blockchain technology.  Blockchain is a distributed ledger where all transactions are recorded. It is like your bank passbook, except all your transactions are transparent and can be seen by anyone and cannot be changed or modified once recorded. How do NFTs work? Traditional works of art such as paintings are valuable precisely because they are one of a kind. But digital files can be easily and endlessly duplicated. With NFTs, artwork can be "tokenised" to create a digital certificate of ownership that can be bought and sold. NFT works on blockchain as it gives users complete ownership of a digital asset.  As with crypto-currency, a record of who owns what is stored on a shared ledger known as the blockchain. The records cannot be forged because the ledger is maintained by thousands of computers around the world. For instance, if you’re a sketch artist, and if you convert your digital asset to an NFT, what you get is proof of ownership, powered by Blockchain. NFTs can also contain smart contracts that may give the artist, for example, a cut of any future sale of the token. It is not just art that is tokenised and sold. Twitter's founder Jack Dorsey has promoted an NFT of the first-ever tweet, with bids hitting $2.5m.  So why are people willing to spend millions on something they could easily screenshot or download? In simple words, when you list your NFT on a marketplace, you pay something called a gas fee (transaction fee) for using the Blockchain, following which your digital art is then recorded on Blockchain, mentioning that you (your address) own the particular NFT. This gives you full ownership—which cannot be edited or modified by anyone, including the marketplace owner. An NFT is thus created or “minted”, to get exclusive ownership rights. NFTs can have only one owner at a time.  Apart from exclusive ownership, NFT owners can also digitally sign their artwork and store specific information in their NFTs metadata. This will be only viewable to the individual who bought the NFT. How is an NFT different from cryptocurrency? NFTs and cryptocurrencies are very different from each other. While both are built on Blockchain, that is where the similarity ends. Cryptocurrency is a currency and is fungible, meaning that it is interchangeable.  But NFTs are non-fungible, which means the value of one NFT is not equal to another. Every art is different from other, making it non fungible, and unique. Who can buy NFTs? Anyone who holds a cryptocurrency wallet can buy an NFT. That is the only prerequisite to purchase an NFT.  One doesn’t need any KYC documents to purchase an art. All one needs is a cryptocurrency wallet powered by Metamask, and an NFT marketplace where you can buy and sell NFTs. What are the risks associated with buying NFTs? In the recent past, several incidents of NFT scams have been reported including: emergence of fake marketplaces, unverified sellers often impersonating real artists and selling copies of their artworks for half prices. Another risk associated with NFTs that cannot be swept under the rug is the unquestionably negative impact on the environment. In order to validate transactions, crypto mining is done, which requires high powered computers that run at a very high capacity, affecting the environment ultimately. Connecting the dots: Blockchain and Voting Cryptocurrency regulation China’s Digital Currency (Sansad TV: Perspective) Feb 19: Green Hydrogen - https://youtu.be/7qIXFhB0nko  TOPIC: GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment; Government Budgeting Green Hydrogen In News: The government has unveiled the first part of the much-awaited National Hydrogen Policy.  Government is targeting production of 5 million tonnes of green hydrogen by 2030.  The policy allows free inter-state wheeling of renewable energy used in the production of green hydrogen and ammonia as it seeks to boost usage of the carbon-free fuel, and make India an export hub.  It offers 25 years of free power transmission for any new renewable energy plants set up to supply power for green hydrogen production before July 2025.  There will also be a single portal for all clearances required for setting up green hydrogen production as well as a facility for producers to bank any surplus renewable energy generated with discoms for upto 30 days and use it as required. What is green hydrogen? Green hydrogen is hydrogen gas produced through electrolysis of water — an energy intensive process for splitting water into hydrogen and oxygen— using renewable power to achieve this. Green hydrogen has specific advantages - Environment Friendly: Green Hydrogen as energy source is seen as the next big thing as its usage would lead to zero emissions Potential to Decarbonise various sectors: It is a clean burning molecule, which can decarbonise a range of sectors including iron and steel, chemicals, and transportation.  Efficient utilization of Renewable Energy: Renewable energy that cannot be stored or used by the grid can be channelled to produce hydrogen. Reduced Dependence on Rare Minerals: Green Hydrogen also holds the key to clean electric mobility that doesn’t depend on rare minerals. Green Hydrogen helps achieve long-term vision of reduced dependency on minerals and rare-earth element-based battery as energy storage. Helps Achieve Paris Goal: Green hydrogen energy is vital for India to meet its Nationally Determined Contributions and ensure regional and national energy security, access and availability Energy Security: Green energy helps reduce import dependency on fossil fuels How is the policy set to boost domestic production of green hydrogen production? The new policy offers 25 years of free power transmission for any new renewable energy plants set up to supply power for green hydrogen production before July 2025.  This means that a green hydrogen producer will be able to set up a solar power plant in Rajasthan to supply renewable energy to a green hydrogen plant in Assam and would not be required to pay any inter-state transmission charges.  The move is likely going to make it more economical for key users of hydrogen and ammonia such as the oil refining, fertiliser and steel sectors to produce green hydrogen for their own use. These sectors currently use grey hydrogen or grey ammonia produced using natural gas or naphtha. What are the incentives? The government is set to provide a single portal for all clearances required for setting up green hydrogen production as well as a facility for producers to bank any surplus renewable energy generated with discoms for upto 30 days and use it as required. Energy plants set up to produce green hydrogen/ammonia would be given connectivity to the grid on a priority basis. Power distribution companies may also procure renewable energy to supply green hydrogen producers but will be required to do so at a concessional rate which will only include the cost of procurement, wheeling charges and a small margin as determined by the state commission, under the new policy. Such procurement would also count towards a state’s Renewable Purchase Obligation (RPO) under which it is required to procure a certain proportion of its requirements from renewable energy sources. What are the facilities to boost export of green hydrogen and ammonia? Under the policy port authorities will also provide land at applicable charges to green hydrogen and green ammonia producers to set up bunkers near ports for storage prior to export.  Germany and Japan could be key markets for green hydrogen produced in India. Challenges with regard to Hydrogen Fuel Fuelling Infrastructure: A big barrier to the adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles has been a lack of fuelling station infrastructure — fuel cell cars refuel in a similar way to conventional cars, but can’t use the same station (only 500 in the world & that too in Europe, Japan, South Korea) Safety is seen as a concern: Hydrogen is pressurised and stored in a cryogenic tank, from there it is fed to a lower-pressure cell and put through an electro-chemical reaction to generate electricity. Scaling up the technology and achieving critical mass remains the big challenge. More vehicles on the road and more supporting infrastructure can lower costs.  What next? The government is set to come out with mandates requiring that the oil refining, fertiliser and steel sectors procure green hydrogen and green ammonia for a certain proportion of their requirements. The mandate for the refining sector could start at 15-20 per cent of the sectors total requirement. Can you answer the following questions? How will it benefit producers of green hydrogen? How will it boost India’s energy security? Discuss. Will it help us achieve the net zero emission targets? Critically examine. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1 Consider the following statements: The moth life cycle has four stages: egg, larva (caterpillar), pupa (chrysalis), and adult (imago).  The larvae and adults of most moth species are plant eaters. Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding Corbevax: It is the first indigenously developed Receptor Binding Domain Protein sub-unit vaccine against COVID-19. It means it is made up of a specific part of SARS-CoV-2 - the spike protein on the virus’s surface. Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 SEA-ME-WE-6 and India-Asia-Xpress (IAX) are associated with which of the following? Asia Bullet train Undersea cable GSLV satellite by ASEAN nations None of the above ANSWERS FOR 22nd Feb 2022 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 C 3 B Must Read On the history of International Mother Language Day: The Hindu On MGNREGA’s budget estimation: The Hindu On India’s Ukraine dilemma: Indian Express

Feb 22, 2022 TLP Mains Answer Writing

SYNOPSIS [21st February,2022] Day 22: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE SYNOPSIS [21st February,2022] Day 22: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies) 1. How did the Indo-China war of 1962 shape India’s defense and foreign policy in the coming years? Explain.  Approach-  Candidates need to write about the background of Indo china war. Then simply highlight the defence and foreign policy due to impact   Introduction  Recent face-off between India and China in Galwan valley has awaken the memory of 1962 war. China attacked India over multiple points across the border in 1962, leading to a month-long standoff between 10,000 to 20,000 Indian soldiers and 80,000 Chinese troops. Unprepared for the offensive, India lost nearly 4,000 soldiers in the war and suffered its most humiliating defeat.  Body  The aftermath of the war saw sweeping changes in the Indian military to prepare it for similar conflicts in the future, and placed pressure on Nehru, who was seen as responsible for failing to anticipate the Chinese attack on India.  Indians reacted with a surge in patriotism and memorials were erected for many of the Indian troops who died in the war.  The war also put an end to Nehru’s earlier hopes that India and China would form a strong Asian Axis to counteract the increasing influence of the Cold War bloc superpowers.  According to James Calvin, India gained many benefits from the 1962 conflict. This war united the country as never before. India got 32,000 square miles (8.3 million hectares, 83,000 km2) of disputed territory even if it felt that NEFA was hers all along.   It would more than double its military manpower in the next two years and it would work hard to resolve the military’s training and logistic problems to later become the second-largest army in the world. India’s efforts to improve its military posture significantly enhanced its army’s capabilities and preparedness.  However, since 1962 here have also been many instances when China had to face setbacks after initiating aggression against India.  The Nathu La conflict is better known as the India-China war of 1967. In a strong message to China that the mistakes of 1962 won’t be repeated, India landed a stern blow on the PLA’s pride at the Nathu La post in Sikkim.  In 1993 and 1996, the two sides signed the Sino-Indian Bilateral Peace and Tranquility Accords, agreements to maintain peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control.   During the 1962 war, India was left isolated. Barring Western countries like USA and UK, none came to India’s aid, though India considered herself as the leader of the Non-aligned Movement.  Seeking to balance the other side, each country has forged relationships that act as a counterpoint to the other; most notably, Beijing’s “all weather friendship” with Islamabad and Delhi’s partnership with Moscow.  The rivalry has also led both sides to compete for influence in their peripheries, especially in Burma and Nepal, and to resent the spread of the other’s influence close to their borders.  Conclusion India and China are two growing Asian powers and hence a clash of interests is inevitable.  The key is to keep it manageable and not allow it to flare up into another border war. It will be tough test for our diplomacy in the prevailing situation.  2. Explain the factors that created instability in Punjab in the 1980s. How did the government respond? Discuss.   Approach  Students are expected to write about the insurgency led instability in the Punjab. Then how government responded with different operation to defeat movement.   Introduction  The Insurgency in Punjab, from the mid-1980s to the mid-1990s, was an armed campaign by the Sikh militant nationalist Khalistan movement. In the 1980s, the movement had evolved into a secessionist movement after the perceived indifference of the Indian state in regards to mutual negotiations.  Body  Factors created instability in Punjab:  The insurgency in Punjab originated in the late 1970s, was a threat to the unity and integrity of India due to the militant Sikh ethno-nationalism known as Khalistan movement.  Bhindranwale then joined the Akali Dal to launch the Dharam Yudh Morcha in 1982, to implement Anandpur Sahib resolution.  Bindranwale also increased the level of rhetoric on the perceived “assault” on Sikh values from the Hindu community.  Pakistani elements too that supported the Khalistani movement in order to weaken the country.  Failing to get the Anandpur Resolution implemented, he declared his intention to carve out a semi-autonomous homeland for Sikhs in the Punjab region of India.  In 1983, to escape arrest, he along with his militant cadre occupied and fortified the Sikh shrine Akal Takht.  Response:  Hence, Operation Blue Star was launched between 1st June and 6th June 1984, with the aim of getting rid of Bhindranwale and his demands.  There were two components to the operation, Operation Metal, which was the invasion of the temple complex, and Operation Store, which was restricted to the state’s countryside.  This operation helped to eradicate Khalistani extremism, resulting in the death of Bhindranwale.  Conclusion Though the Golden Temple was restored and made free of militants and arms, the operation was criticised by Sikhs the world over, since it was carried out at their holiest site of worship. The long-term result of the operation left the Khalistan movement defeated. It also left India united, and Punjab free of militancy, and ensured that the Golden Temple is free of violence, guns and ammunition.  3. What do you understand by the phenomenon of feminisation of agriculture? What are its implications? Analyse.  Approach-  Candidates need to explain the phenomenon of feminisation of agriculture and then analyse its implications.  Introduction  In India, the structural transformation is a stunted transformation. One of the drivers as well as an outcome of this transformation/transition is feminization of agriculture, though the degree varies across regions and countries. The roles of women in agriculture have increased during the last two decades and women now have broader and deeper responsibilities in agriculture – both in subsistence agriculture as well as in commercial farming. There is also evidence of the blurring of the traditional gender segregation of roles in agriculture.  The phenomenon of feminisation of agriculture  Male outmigration from rural, primary agricultural areas and the globalization of agri-food systems have both been linked to a significant increase in women’s work and responsibilities in agriculture, a phenomenon referred to as the ‘feminization of agriculture’.   While the term has been broadly used to bring attention to the increasing number of women, relative to men, in agricultural employment, little attention has been paid to what the ‘feminization of agriculture’ means for women’s empowerment and their roles in agriculture more generally.   Feminization of agriculture, in its simplest and broader term, refers to women’s increasing participation in the agricultural labor force, whether as producers, as unpaid family workers, or as agricultural wage labor.   It is an increase in women’s participation rates in the agricultural sector, either as self-employed or as agricultural wage workers.   The phenomena include an increase in the percentage of women in the agricultural labor force relative to men, either because more women are working and/or because fewer men are working in agriculture.  Depending upon the existing agricultural and livelihoods system, feminisation can mean slightly different things in the context of agriculture in different countries.   It is therefore imperative that to understand recent trends in women’s work in agriculture, it is useful to locate them within the broader agricultural context.  Its implications  Access to land is one of the major challenges affecting women farmers’ productivity. Access to land is a basic requirement for farming and those who have ownership and control over land usually also command wealth, status and power in many societies. Agri feminization will help in solving these challenges.  Creation and promotion of women-led micro enterprises will go a long way in validating female agency both on micro and macro-levels.   This would require increased extension services such as capacity building, training and access to credit.   Specifically, in agriculture, due to increasing feminisation of farms, providing cultivator status to women will be critical. This will help them in accessing benefits under multiple agricultural schemes that are only reserved for landowners.  Adapting extension services to the needs of women farmers will be beneficial. Under farm mechanisation, a focus on innovating farm machines that are better suited to female use will be rewarding.   Continued efforts to aggregate women under Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), and organising and training them via women self-help groups (SHGs) will also be crucial towards their empowerment.  Conclusion: These days women are taking on ever more responsibility in managing rice production, as more men seek work off-farm to generate needed household income, a process characterized as the ‘feminization of agriculture'. Women are having to take on the entire process of food production as well bringing up their children and caring for elderly relatives. It is a severe burden on all members of the family.  TLP Synopsis Day 22 PDF

Feb 22, 2022 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 21st February 2022

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Permanent Indus Commission Part of: Prelims and GS-II International relations  Context: A 10-member Indian delegation will visit Pakistan for the annual meeting of the Permanent Indus Commission. For the first time, three women officers will also be part of the Indian delegation. Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) was signed by India and Pakistan in 1960.  Under the treaty, India has full use of the three “eastern” rivers (Beas, Ravi, Sutlej), while Pakistan has control over the three “western” rivers (Indus, Chenab, Jhelum), although India is given rights to use these partially as well for certain purposes.  Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) PIC is a bilateral commission consisting of officials from India and Pakistan. Objective: To implement and manage the goals, objectives and outlines of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) which was signed in kuSeptember 1960 with World Bank standing guarantee for any dispute resolution. News Source: TH Synthetic biology Part of: Prelims and GS-III  Science and technology  Context: The 70-page ‘compilation’ document was recently released by the central government. The government is working on a national policy on synthetic biology which is an emerging science that deals with engineering life forms for a wide range of applications from making designer medicines to foods. Key takeaways  The document lays out the state of synthetic biology internationally with respect to research and development and the involvement of the private sector, globally, in dealing with synthetic biology. As part of the 12th Five-Year Plan, India had set up a task force on systems biology and synthetic biology research in 2011. This body underlined the potential benefits from synthetic biotechnology in biofuels, bioremediation, biosensors, food and health. It also strongly recommended for this technology. However, Parliament is yet to clear the Biotechnology Regulatory Authority of India Bill, 2013, that could have included framework for synthetic biology.  Synthetic biology Synthetic biology refers to the science of using genetic sequencing, editing, and modification to create unnatural organisms or organic molecules that can function in living systems. It enables scientists to design and synthesise new sequences of DNA from scratch. It is also seen as one of the top 10 breakthrough technologies as part of the “new industrial revolution” that are “most likely to change the world”. Regulation of both the benefits and risks is important. The current laws and regulations framework often fail to fully adapt to the evolving possibilities of synthetic biology. Instances of application: use of gene editing systems such as CRISPR that allow defective genes in animals, plants and even people to be silenced, or changed, and control biological outcomes. News Source: TH Active Galactic Nuclei Part of: Prelims and GS-III Space  Context: A roughly dough-nut-shaped cloud of cosmic dust and gas covering a huge black hole at the center of a galaxy Messier 77, which is similar in size to the Milky Way, was recently observed. The observation is providing scientists with new clarity about the universe's most energetic objects. Key takeaways  Their recent observations lend support to predictions made three decades ago about “active galactic nuclei”. It also provided strong support for the “unified model” of active galactic nuclei.  This model holds that all active galactic nuclei are basically the same but that some have different properties. Active galactic nuclei These are places at the centres of many large galaxies that have tremendous luminosity which sometimes outshine all of a galaxy's billions of stars combined and produce the universe's most energetic outbursts. The energy arises from gas violently falling into a supermassive black hole that is surrounded by a cloud of tiny particles of rock and soot along with mostly hydrogen gas. Black holes Black holes are extraordinarily dense objects possessing gravitational pulls so powerful even light cannot escape them.  Supermassive black holes, which reside at the centre of many galaxies, including Milky Way, are the largest of them. Messier 77 Messier 77, also called NGC 1068 or the Squid Galaxy, is located 47 million light years (9.5 trillion km) from the Earth in the constellation Cetus.  Its supermassive black hole has a mass roughly 10 million times greater than our sun. News Source: TH (News from PIB) Lavender Cultivation as a part of Purple Revolution Part of: Prelims and Mains GS-2: Government policies and intervention In News: ‘Lavender Cultivation’ under CSIR-IIIM’s Aroma Mission to be started in Ramban as a part of Purple Revolution. Aroma Mission The Aroma Mission is envisaged to bring transformative change in the aroma sector through desired interventions in the areas of agriculture, processing and product development for fuelling the growth of aroma industry and rural employment. Objectives:  To promote the cultivation of aromatic crops for essential oils. To enable Indian farmers and the aroma industry to become global leaders. To provide benefits to the farmers in achieving higher profits, utilization of waste lands and protection of their crops from wild and grazing animals. Provided employment to women farmers Nodal Agencies: CSIR-Central Institute of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants (CSIR-CIMAP), Lucknow. Aromatic Plants include  Lavender Damask rose Mushk bala, etc. Projects include Lavender oil which sells for at least Rs. 10,000 per litre Lavender water, which separates from lavender oil, is used to make incense sticks. Hydrosol, which is formed after distillation from the flowers, is used to make soaps and room fresheners. Coverage: The project assured benefits to the growers of Vidarbha, Bundelkhand, Gujarat, Marathwada, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and other states where farmers are exposed to frequent episodes of weather extremes and account for maximum suicides. Outcomes: Bring about 5500 ha of additional area under captive cultivation aromatic cash crops particularly targeting rain-fed /degraded land across the country Provide technical and infrastructural support for distillation and values-addition to farmers/growers all over the country Enabling effective buy-back mechanisms to assure remunerative prices to the farmers/growers Value-addition to essential oils and aroma ingredients for their integration in global trade and economy’ Update:  During Phase-I CSIR helped cultivation on 6000 hectares of land and covered 46 Aspirational districts across the country. More than 44,000 persons have been trained and several crores of farmers’ revenue generated.  In the second Phase of Aroma Mission, it is proposed to engage over 45,000 skilled human resources with the aim of benefitting more than 75,000 farming families across the country. News Source: PIB FPOs to Play Key Role in Making India Millet Hub of the World Part of: Prelims and Mains GS-2: Government policies and intervention Context: The UN General Assembly adopted a resolution sponsored by India and supported by over 70 nations declaring 2023 as the ‘International Year of Millets’, aimed at raising awareness about the health benefits of the grain and its suitability for cultivation under changing climatic conditions. About Millets Millets are coarse grains and a repository of protein, fibre, vitamins and minerals.  They include jowar (sorghum), ragi (finger millet), korra (foxtail millet), arke (kodo millet), sama (little millet), bajra (pearl millet), chena/barr (proso millet) and sanwa (barnyard millet). Millets were one of the oldest foods known to humans. But they were discarded in favour of wheat and rice with urbanization and industrialization India is their largest global producer, with a 41% market share, and a compound annual growth rate of 4.5% is projected for the global millet market in the coming decade.  What are their nutritional benefits? Millets are extremely nutritious and good for health and they also need less water and can stored for years, as they have a long shelf life. Millets make for a perfect healthy meal. They are loaded with high amount of starch and proteins, which can be beneficial, if added to the daily diet. These little grains are a powerhouse of nutrition, which help in improving heart health and can effectively reduce coronary blockage. It is enriched with the goodness of magnesium, which can effectively reduce blood pressure and risk of stroke and heart attacks. Millets are a rich source of magnesium, which help in stimulating the level of insulin, thereby increasing the efficiency of glucose receptors in the body, which further helps in maintaining a healthy balance of sugar level in the body. Rich in fibre, millets make for a healthy cereal, which can help in digestion and can relieve bowel issues. Millets are loaded with the components such as curcumin, ellagic acid, Quercetin and catechins, which further help in removing foreign agents and free radicals and balance the enzymatic reactions in the body. These can naturally detoxify the blood. What are the advantages with Millets? 1. Climate Resilience Being hardy crops, they can withstand extreme temperatures, floods and droughts.  They also help mitigate the effects of climate change through their low carbon footprint of 3,218-kg CO2 equivalent per hectare, as compared to wheat and rice, with 3,968kg and 3,401kg, respectively, on the same measure. 2. Restoration of ecosystems and sustainability:  Land degradation has been a major problem in India, causing massive economic losses year after year. Drought-tolerant crops, like millets, with low dependence on chemical inputs would put far less pressure on ecosystems. The inter-cropping of millets with other crops is especially beneficial because the fibrous roots of millet plants help in improving soil quality, keep water run-off in check and aid soil conservation in erosion-prone areas, thereby restoring natural ecosystems. 3. Biofuel and Ethanol Blending In June 2021, government set a target of achieving 20% ethanol blending with petrol by 2025. Most bio-ethanol in India is produced using sugar molasses and maize.  However, a study conducted among farmers in Madhya Pradesh showed that bio-ethanol can be created using sorghum (jowar) and pearl millet (bajra), and that this fuel could bring down carbon emissions by about half. Estimates also suggest that millets can deliver greater returns than maize, while using 40% less energy in processing. Millets also offer a significant cost advantage over maize as a feedstock for bio-ethanol production. 4. A cultural connection:  The cultivation of millets is deep-rooted in Indian culture.  Organizations like Deccan Development Society have formed women’s collectives in Telangana and are promoting millets through a culture-centric approach.  Such crop sensitization has filtered into urban settings too. In 2018, the #LetsMilletCampaign in Bengaluru saw the use of millets in dishes such as risotto and pizza by restaurateurs.  5. Helps address Sustainable DGs:  Millets can play a role in India’s sustainability policy interventions. Contemporary research developments have shed light on the influence of millets on energy optimization, climate resilience and ecosystem restoration.  Millet farming has led to women’s empowerment, too. The Odisha Millet Mission, for example, saw 7.2 million women emerge as ‘agri-preneurs’. What are the concerns with Millets growth? A rise in incomes and urbanization has reduced the demand for millets Inadequate government policies. Unjust pricing for farmers due to intermediaries. Lack of input subsidies and price incentives. Procurement and subsidised supply of rice & wheat through the PDS has made farmers shift from millets to these crops. Millets being used for various purposes other than for consumption.  News Source: PIB Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Part of: GS-1: Modern Indian History; Important personalities In News:  Born on 19th February, 1630 at Shivneri Fort in District Pune; born to Shahaji Bhonsle, a Maratha general who held the jagirs of Pune and Supe under the Bijapur Sultanate and Jijabai, a pious woman whose religious qualities had a profound influence on him. 1645: Got control of the Torna Fort which was under Bijapur. Also, acquired the Kondana Fort. Both these forts were under Adil Shah of Bijapur. Battle of Pratapgarh in 1659: Shivaji’s forces vanquished the Bijapur Sultanate’s army Aurangzeb sent Raja jai Singh of Amber, who besieged Purander fort →  Treaty of Purander, 1665 Shivaji surrendered 23 / 35 forts to Mughals and said to be loyal to Mughal empire It was agreed that Shivaji would meet Aurangzeb at Agra. Shivaji also agreed to send his son Sambhaji as well. At Agra in 1666, when Shivaji went to meet the Mughal emperor, the Maratha warrior felt he was insulted by Aurangzeb and stormed out of the court. He was arrested and kept prisoner. The clever escape of Shivaji and his son from imprisonment in disguise out of Agra is a legendary tale even today. In 1674, Shivaji recaptured all his lost territory & crowned himself at Raigarh assuming the title of Chhtrapati, Shakakarta, Kshatriya Kulavantas and Haindava Dharmodhhaarak. 3 April 1680 at Raigad: Death Shivaji: Considered a master of the guerrilla warfare Kanhoji Angre, his admiral, is called the ‘Father of Indian Navy’. Battles Battle of Pratapgad, 1659: Fought at the fort of Pratapgad near the town of Satara, Maharashtra, between the forces of the Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and the Adilshahi general Afzal Khan. Battle of Pavan Khind, 1660: Fought at a mountain pass in the vicinity of fort Vishalgad, near the city of Kolhapur, Maharashtra, between the Maratha Sardar Baji Prabhu Deshpande and Siddi Masud of Adilshahi. Sacking of Surat, 1664: Fought near the city of Surat, Gujarat, between Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and Inayat Khan, a Mughal captain. Battle of Sinhagad, 1670: Fought on the fort of Sinhagad near the city of Pune, Maharashtra between Tanaji Malusare, a commander of Maratha ruler Shivaji Maharaj and Udaybhan Rathod, fortkeeper under Jai Singh I who was a Mughal Army Chief. Battle of Kalyan, 1682-83: Bahadur Khan of the Mughal Empire defeated the Maratha army and took over Kalyan. Battle of Sangamner, 1679: Fought between the Mughal Empire and Maratha Empire. This was the last battle in which the Maratha King Shivaji fought. MISCELLANEOUS International Mother Language Day: 21st February every year, to promote awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity and to promote multilingualism. The theme of 2022 is: “Using technology for multilingual learning: Challenges and opportunities” Host for 2023 International Olympic Committee Session: India Devi Ahiliyabai Holker The hereditary noble Queen of the Maratha Empire, India. Khanderao Holkar, Ahilyabai's husband, was killed at the Battle of Kumher in 1754.  Her father-in-law, Malhar Rao Holkar, died twelve years later, after which she took over the affairs of the Holkar fief a year later. She attempted to defend her homeland against looting invaders and personally led armies into battle. Ahilyabai was a great pioneer and builder of Hindu temples and built hundreds of temples and Dharmashalas throughout India. Her greatest achievement was to rebuild the Kashi Vishwanath Temple in 1776, which was dedicated to Shiva; the presiding deity of the city of Varanasi, one of the holiest Hindu sites of pilgrimage that had been plundered, desecrated, demolished & converted into Gyanvapi Mosque on the orders of the Mughal emperor Aurangzeb in 1669. Devi Ahilyabai Holkar Award: for Best Private Sector Organization/Public Sector Undertaking in promoting the well-being and welfare of women. Public Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure  Context: The Government of India has undertaken multiple initiatives to promote the manufacturing and adoption of electric vehicles in the country. With the considerable expansion in the public EV charging infrastructure, the electric vehicles have started penetrating the Indian market. Efforts by government results in 2.5 times increase in charging stations in 9 mega cities in last four months Additional installation of 678 public EV charging stations between October 2021 to January 2022 in these 9 cities Currently 9 cities account for about 940 of India's 1640 public EV chargers 22,000 EV charging stations to be set up by Oil Marketing Companies across the country in prominent cities and highways (Mains Focus) INTERNATIONAL / ECONOMY GS-2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests CEPA between India and the UAE Context: On February 18, 2022, India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) inked a trade pact, Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) during a virtual summit led by Indian PM and Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi. What is the India-UAE CEPA about?  The Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement is a bilateral trade pact that will cover over a period of time 90% of India’s exports.  This will include leather, processed agriculture and dairy products, handicrafts, gems and jewellery, furniture, pharmaceuticals, food and beverages, engineering products and nearly the entire spectrum of items produced by the Indian economy.  Apart from the goods sector, it will also include the services sector. The services sector is expected to boom by $15 billion in the coming five years. The deal has strong anti-dumping measures integrated into it which will prevent any country from dumping its products into the Indian market by using the route of the UAE.  The document has very strong rules of origin clauses that will disallow any country to export goods to India taking advantage of relaxed tariff on the Indian side. It India wants 40% value addition into a product from a third country before it could be exported to India through UAE. How will the trade pact benefit India-UAE economic ties?  India-UAE economic ties are marked by the flow of remittances from the oil rich Gulf country to India.  The country hosts at least 3 million Indians who work in diverse sectors of the economy of the Emirates and provides it with vital manpower support at all levels.  In 2019, India received $83 billion from the Gulf region. The figure was marginally affected in 2020 when large number of Indian workers returned home because of pandemic related economic distress. The India-UAE economic relation at present is shaped by the remittances that remain much greater than the $60 billion bilateral trade.  The remittances are expected to rise with full economic recovery of the UAE’s post-pandemic economy. The FTA will also increase remittances as Indian investments in UAE will bring Indian employees into the Gulf country. Why did PM Modi refer to the western Quad?  The western Quad consisting of Israel, India, UAE and the United States has been a regional factor ever since it was convened in October 2021 which was followed by a ministerial meeting of the four countries.  The western quad is marked by the diplomatic breakthroughs between Israel and the UAE which recently hosted Israeli Prime Minister Naftali Bennett.  It is understood that UAE as part of its post pandemic recovery plans is planning to revitalise its trade links with the region from the Mediterranean coast to Turkey on one hand and India and South Asia on the other.  USA and the UAE are among the biggest trading partners of India, and Israel is among the top technology support providers for India. All four are connected by currents of security and trade.  What will be the immediate outputs of the FTA?   The FTA will allow goods from UAE, especially the famed dates of UAE to enter India.  Most of the Indian exports similarly will benefit from the “zero tariff” that UAE is expected to grant.  This move will allow increased visibility of Indian products in the UAE. The reduction in tariff for Indian jewellery and gems will allow it to enter the UAE in greater volume.  How is the CEPA different from other such trade agreements India is negotiating with countries like Australia?  Most of the other agreements are expected to be “early harvest agreements” or interim agreements till both sides conclude the final agreement in a comprehensive manner.  The India-UAE FTA however is comprehensive in nature to highlight the vast scope of items that will come under it.  Early harvest agreements are expected to include goods and products. But the CEPA will have a greater spread of both goods as well as services.  When will the agreement come into effect?  Though the signing of the agreement took place on February 18, it is not likely to come into force immediately as UAE has not yet completed the necessary official procedures on its end.  This process will take 60 days at least and India has expressed hope that CEPA will be in the phase of implementation after May 1.  Connecting the dots: Western QUAD  QUAD (India-Australia-Japan-USA) AUKUS POLITY/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Judiciary Sealed Cover Jurisprudence Context: Recently, Kerala High Court’s verdict upheld the transmission ban on Malayalam news channel MediaOne, imposed by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) denied the channel security clearance.  The High Court’s decision was based entirely on assessment of documents presented by the MHA in a sealed cover, “the contents of which were not shared” with the news channel. What is sealed cover jurisprudence?   It is a practice used by the Supreme Court and sometimes lower courts, of asking for or accepting information from government agencies in sealed envelopes that can only be accessed by judges.  While a specific law does not define the doctrine of sealed cover, the Supreme Court derives its power to use it from Rule 7 of order XIII of the Supreme Court Rules and Section 123 of the Indian Evidence Act of 1872.  It is stated under the said rule that if the Chief Justice or court directs certain information to be kept under sealed cover, no party would be allowed access to the contents of such information.  It also mentions that information can be kept confidential if its publication is not considered to be in the interest of the public.  As for the Evidence Act, official unpublished documents relating to state affairs are protected and a public officer cannot be compelled to disclose such documents.  Other instances where information may be sought in secrecy or confidence is when its publication impedes an ongoing investigation, such as details which are part of the police’s case diary; or breaches the privacy of an individual.  When has it been done in the past?   Sealed cover jurisprudence has been frequently employed by courts in the recent past.  In the case pertaining to the controversial Rafale fighter jet deal, a Bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi in 2018, had asked the Centre to submit details related to deal’s decision making and pricing in a sealed cover.  This was done as the Centre had contended that such details were subject to the Official Secrets Act and Secrecy clauses in the deal.  In the matters related to the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, the supreme court mandated coordinator of the NRC, Prateek Hajela, was asked by the apex court to submit period reports in sealed cover, which could neither be accessed by the government nor the petitioners.  In the case where CBI’s former director Alok Verma and the national agency’s former special director Rakesh Asthana had made counter allegations of corruption against one another, the Supreme Court had asked the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) to submit its preliminary report in a sealed cover.  In the 2014 BCCI reforms case, the probe committee of the cricket body had submitted its report to the Supreme Court in a sealed envelope, asking it not to make public the names of nine cricketers who were suspected of a match and spot fixing scam.  In the Bhima Koregaon case, in which activists were arrested under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act, the Supreme Court had relied on information submitted by the Maharashtra police in a sealed cover. The police had stated that this information could not be disclosed to the accused as it would impede the ongoing investigation.  Information submitted by state agencies in a sealed cover was also relied upon in the 2G and coal scam cases, the Ramjanmabhoomi case, the high-profile case pertaining to the death of judge BH Loya, as well as the 2019 case pertaining to the release of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s biopic around the national elections.  What is the criticism and what do the courts say?   Critics of this practice contend that it is not favorable to the principles of transparency and accountability of the Indian justice system, standing in contrast to the idea of an open court, where decisions can be subjected to public scrutiny .  It is also said to enlarge the scope for arbitrariness in court decisions, as judges are supposed to lay down reasoning for their decisions, but this cannot be done when they are based upon information submitted confidentially.  It is considered as the violation of rights to fair adjudication whereby the applicant does not get to know the contents of the sealed cover. Basing the verdict on sealed or secret documents went against “the basic principles of natural justice”. The said principle mandates that in any process of adjudication, especially one that involves fundamental rights, evidence “must be shared with both parties to the dispute.” What is further contested is whether the state should be granted such a privilege to submit information in secrecy, when existing provisions like in-camera hearings already provide sufficient protection to sensitive information.  Besides, it is argued that not providing access to such documents to the accused parties obstructs their passage to a fair trial and adjudication.  In the 2019 judgment in the case of P Gopalakrishnan V. The State of Kerala, the Supreme Court had said that disclosure of documents to the accused is constitutionally mandated, even if the investigation is ongoing and said documents may lead to breakthrough in the investigation.  In the INX Media case in 2019, while granting bail to Congress leader P. Chidambaram, a Bench of the Supreme Court had criticised the Delhi High Court for basing its decision to deny bail on documents submitted by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a sealed cover.  Connecting the dots: Judicial Activism vs Judicial Overreach Indianisation of Judiciary Language in Judiciary  Judicial Administration Reform Judiciary & AI All India Judicial Service (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1 Consider the following statements: Messier 77 is located 47 million light years (9.5 trillion km) from the Earth in the constellation Cetus.  Active galactic nuclei are places at the centres of many large galaxies that have tremendous luminosity which sometimes outshine all of a galaxy's billions of stars combined. Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding Synthetic biology: Synthetic biology refers to the science of using genetic sequencing, editing, and modification to create unnatural organisms or organic molecules that can function in living systems. It enables scientists to design and synthesise new sequences of DNA from scratch. Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Which of the following is not the tributary of the Indus River? Shyok Gilgit Zaskar Luni ANSWERS FOR 21st Feb 2022 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 C 3 D Must Read On the NSE fiasco and protecting small investors: The Hindu On Tapping technology for multilingual learning: The Hindu On significance of India-EU partnership: Indian Express

Feb 22, 2022 हिन्दी - Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC हिन्दी Quiz– 2021: IASbaba Daily Current Affairs Quiz 22nd February 2022

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE करेंट अफेयर्स के प्रश्न 'द हिंदू', 'इंडियन एक्सप्रेस' और 'पीआईबी' जैसे स्रोतों पर आधारित होते हैं, जो यूपीएससी प्रारंभिक परीक्षा के लिए बहुत महत्वपूर्ण स्रोत हैं। प्रश्न अवधारणाओं और तथ्यों दोनों पर केंद्रित हैं। दोहराव से बचने के लिए यहां कवर किए गए विषय आम तौर पर 'दैनिक करंट अफेयर्स / डेली न्यूज एनालिसिस (डीएनए) और डेली स्टेटिक क्विज' के तहत कवर किए जा रहे विषयों से भिन्न होते हैं। प्रश्न सोमवार से शनिवार तक दोपहर 2 बजे से पहले प्रकाशित किए जाएंगे। इस कार्य में आपको 10 मिनट से ज्यादा नहीं देना है। इस कार्य के लिए तैयार हो जाएं और इस पहल का इष्टतम तरीके से उपयोग करें। याद रखें कि, "साधारण अभ्यर्थी और चयनित होने वाले अभ्यर्थी के बीच का अंतर केवल दैनक अभ्यास है !!" Important Note: Comment अनुभाग में अपने अंक पोस्ट करना न भूलें। साथ ही, हमें बताएं कि क्या आपको आज का टेस्ट अच्छा लगा । 5 प्रश्नों को पूरा करने के बाद, अपना स्कोर, समय और उत्तर देखने के लिए ‘View Questions’ पर क्लिक करें। उत्तर देखने के लिए, इन निर्देशों का पालन करें: 1 - 'स्टार्ट टेस्ट/ Start Test' बटन पर क्लिक करें प्रश्न हल करें 'टेस्ट सारांश/Test Summary'बटन पर क्लिक करें 'फिनिश टेस्ट/Finish Test'बटन पर क्लिक करें अब ‘View Questions’बटन पर क्लिक करें - यहां आपको उत्तर और लिंक दिखाई देंगे। To take the Test - Click Here

Feb 22, 2022 UPSC Interview Discussion-TRP

[INTERVIEW INITIATIVE] Think, Rethink and Perform (TRP) [DAY 7] 2021 for UPSC/IAS Personality Test!

ARCHIVES (of TRP) - > CLICK HERE Those who have appeared for UPSC Mains 2021, fill up the Google form given below. Students who fill the form will be added to a telegram group so that there can be healthy discussions with other students who will be appearing for the Interview/Personality Test. Also, Mohan sir, Bureaucrats and Ex-Bureaucrats will be interacting one on one with all the students who will be appearing for the same. REGISTER HERE – CLICK HERE Interview Discussion: Think, Rethink and Perform; (TRP)- Day 7 Set 1: Ask these questions to yourself; contemplate and come out with a concrete answer (not to be discussed on this forum). Invest at least 30 minutes on this set of questions.  What frustrates you as an Indian? Why?   Do you have a plan to change that? How will you do it?  Aren’t you a part of the problems that frustrate you? Think about it.  Set 2: Analyse the following issue:  Think about the broader macroeconomic environment in the country. Now, can you speak for a couple of minutes on the overall trends? You can think in terms of the following questions: How is the growth scenario shaping up? If we are witnessing recovery, what are the factors causing it? What is the state of inflation? How is if affecting the policies of the government and RBI for post pandemic recovery? How is the RBI using its monetary tools to strike a balance between credit growth and inflation?  What is the state of financial markets?  How are the banks performing? Are NPAs going to be a challenge? The idea behind these questions is to make you understand and prepare the broad framework for answering questions that the UPSC board may pose. Unless you have a fair knowledge of these concepts, you will fumble in answering the questions. Take this as an opportunity to prepare for the questions related to Economics.  We expect you to discuss the above question (Set 2) in the comments below and come out with a balanced view of the issues. Thank YouIASbaba