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Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 17th December 2021

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

UPSC हिन्दी Quiz– 2021: IASbaba Daily Current Affairs Quiz 16th December 2021

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

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th December 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Incentive Scheme for Promotion of RuPay Debit Cards and Low-Value BHIM-UPI Transactions (P2M) Part of: Prelims and GS III - Economy Context The Union Cabinet has approved an incentive scheme worth ₹ 1,300 crore to promote RuPay Debit cards and low-value (upto Rs. 2,000) BHIM-UPI transactions (Person-to-Merchant (P2M)] in the country. Key takeaways  Under the scheme, the acquiring banks will be incentivised by the Government, by paying percentage of value of transactions (P2M) done through RuPay Debit cards and low-value BHIM-UPI modes of payments, for a period of one year (w.e.f. April 01, 2021). Significance:  Facilitate acquiring Banks in building a robust digital payment ecosystem  Promote RuPay Debit card and BHIM-UPI digital transactions, across all sectors and segments of the population  Deepen the digital payments in the country. Help in making accessible digital modes of payments to unbanked and marginalized populations, who are outside of the formal banking and financial system. Background: The scheme has been formulated in compliance with the Budget announcements (FY 2021-22) by the Government to give further boost to digital transactions in the country. Durga Puja Part of: Prelims and GS-I -Culture Context The 16th Committee of UNESCO for safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) has inscribed DURGA PUJA in KOLKATA on the representative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This is the 1st festival in Asia to achieve recognition as UNESCO ICH of Humanity. About Durga Puja Durga Puja is an annual Hindu festival originating in the Indian subcontinent which reveres and pays homage to the Hindu goddess Durga. It is also celebrated because of Durga's victory over Mahishasur.  It is observed in the Indian calendar month of Ashwin, which corresponds to September–October  It is a ten-day festival. About UNESCO’s list of intangible culture It is an annual list which focuses on those forms of performing art which are of outstanding value but are vulnerable due to lack of support. Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage was adopted in 2003. India ratified it in 2007. In total, 14 Intangible Cultural Heritage elements from India have now been inscribed on UNESCO’s Representative List. This list is made up of those intangible heritage elements that help demonstrate diversity of cultural heritage and raise awareness about its importance. The Ministry of Culture has also launched the draft National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) of India Sixth Schedule Part of: Prelims and GS-II - Polity and governance Context A MP from Ladakh belonging to BJP party has demanded that the region be included in the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution to safeguard land, employment, and cultural identity of the local population. What is Sixth Schedule? The Sixth Schedule under Article 244 provides for the formation of autonomous administrative divisions — Autonomous District Councils (ADCs) — that have some legislative, judicial, and administrative autonomy within a state. ADCs have up to 30 members with a term of five years, and can make laws, rules and regulations with regard to land, forest, water, agriculture, social customs and mining, etc. The Bodoland Territorial Council in Assam is an exception with more than 40 members and the right to make laws on 39 issues. The Sixth Schedule applies to the Northeastern states of Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram (three Councils each), and Tripura (one Council). Why does Ladakh want to be part of the Sixth Schedule? The UT has two Hill councils in Leh and Kargil, but neither is under the Sixth Schedule. Their powers are limited to collection of some local taxes such as parking fees and allotment and use of land vested by the Centre. Buxa Tiger Reserve Part of: Prelims and GS-III - Environment Context Recently,  a Royal Bengal Tiger has been spotted in Buxa tiger reserve in West Bengal after at least 23 years. It was in 1998 that images of a Royal Bengal tiger were last captured at the reserve. About Buxa tiger reserve It is a tiger reserve in Alipurduar district, West Bengal. Created in 1983 as the 15th tiger reserve Its northern boundary runs along the international border with Bhutan.  The Sinchula hill range lies all along the northern side of BTR and the eastern boundary touches that of the Assam state. It represents the highly endemic Indo-Malayan region.  The fragile “Terai Ecosystem” constitutes a part of this reserve.  The Phibsoo Wildlife Sanctuary of Bhutan is contiguous to the north of BTR. Manas National Park lies east of BTR. BTR, thus, serves as an international corridor for Asian elephant migration between India and Bhutan.  Some of the rivers flowing through this reserve are Jayanti, Sankosh, Raidak, Churnia, Turturi, Dima, Nonani, Phashkhawa. The forest of the reserve is classified as the Moist Tropical forest. Rajabhatkhawa Vulture Breeding Center at Buxa Tiger Reserve for the breeding and conservation of endangered Indian vultures was established as the second such center with the help of Bombay Natural History Society and British charity Royal Society for the Protection of Birds.  Sri Ramna Kali Mandir Part of: Prelims  Context On December 17, 2021, President of India will inaugurate a famous Hindu shrine, Sri Ramna Kali Mandir,  that was destroyed by the Pakistani forces during the war (Operation Searchlight) of 1971. Key takeaways  The Ramna Kali Bari used to be a famous landmark of Dhaka where a Kali temple stood for centuries. India supported the renovation and conservation of the historic temple with the help of the Government of Bangladesh. The inauguration comes 50 years after Pakistan was defeated in 1971. (News from PIB) World’s largest Green Hydrogen Microgrid Projects: Part of: Prelims and Mains GS-III: Energy To be set up at Simhadri  It would be a precursor to large scale hydrogen energy storage projects and would be useful for studying and deploying multiple microgrids in various off grid and strategic locations of the country. Would open doors for decarbonising the far-off regions of the country like Ladakh, J&K etc., hitherto dependent on diesel generators.  The project is in-line for India to become carbon neutral by 2070 and making Ladakh a carbon neutral territory. News Source: PIB Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana for 2021-26  Part of: Prelims  Context: Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (AIBP), Har Khet ko Paani (HKKP) and Watershed Development components have been approved for continuation during 2021-26. Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme - Aims for financial support to irrigation projects. Apart from focused completion of 60 ongoing projects including their 30.23 lakh hectare command area development, additional projects can also be taken up.  Har Khet Ko Pani (HKKP) aims for enhancement of physical access on the farm and expansion of cultivable area under assured irrigation. Under HKKP, surface minor irrigation and repair-renovation-restoration of water bodies component of PMKSY is targeted to provide additional 4.5 lakh hectare irrigation. In view of importance of rejuvenation of water bodies, the Cabinet has approved a paradigm shift in funding of their rejuvenation in both urban and rural areas, with significant expansion of their inclusion criteria, and enhancement of central assistance from 25% to 60% in general area.  Watershed Development component focuses on development of rainfed areas towards soil and water conservation, regeneration of ground water, arresting runoff and promoting extension activities related to water harvesting and management. The approved Watershed Development component of Department of Land Resources envisages completion of sanctioned projects covering 49.5 lakh hectare rainfed/ degraded lands to bring additional 2.5 lakh hectare under protective irrigation, during 2021-26. A specific provision for development of spring sheds has been included in the program. Background: Launched in 2015, PMKSY is an umbrella scheme, providing central grants to the State Governments for specific activities detailed below.  It consists of two major components by Department of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, namely, Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP), and Har Khet Ko Pani (HKKP). HKKP, in turn, consists of four sub - components, being Command Area Development (CAD), Surface Minor Irrigation (SMI), Repair, Renovation and Restoration (RRR) of Water Bodies, and Ground Water Development. In addition, Watershed Development part is being implemented by Department of Land Resources. News Source: PIB Programme for Development of Semiconductors and Display Manufacturing Ecosystem Part of: Prelims and Mains –II: Government schemes and policies In News: In furtherance of the vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and positioning India as the global hub for Electronic System Design and Manufacturing, the Union Cabinet has approved the comprehensive program for the development of sustainable semiconductor and display ecosystem in the country.  The program will usher in a new era in electronics manufacturing by providing a globally competitive incentive package to companies in semiconductors and display manufacturing as well as design.  This shall pave the way for India’s technological leadership in these areas of strategic importance and economic self-reliance. Semiconductors and displays are the foundation of modern electronics driving the next phase of digital transformation under Industry 4.0. Semiconductors and display manufacturing is very complex and technology-intensive sector involving huge capital investments, high risk, long gestation and payback periods, and rapid changes in technology, which require significant and sustained investments.  The program will give an impetus to semiconductor and display manufacturing by facilitating capital support and technological collaborations. News Source: PIB  Treaty between India and Poland Part of: Prelims and Mains GS-II: India and Poland  In News: Cabinet has approved the Treaty on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters between the Government of the Republic of India and the Republic of Poland with a view to Enhance capability and effectiveness of both countries in investigation and prosecution of crimes, including crimes related to terrorism through mutual legal assistance.   In the context of transnational crime and its linkages to terrorism, the proposed Treaty will provide a broad legal framework for bilateral cooperation with Poland in investigation and prosecution of crime as well as in tracing, restrain and confiscation of proceeds and instruments of crime as well as the funds meant to finance terrorist acts. Will be instrumental in gaining better inputs and insights in the modus operandi of organized criminals and terrorists.  These in turn can be used to fine tune policy decisions in the field of internal security.   News Source: PIB  (Mains Focus) HISTORY/ ETHICS GS-1: Modern History GS-4: Human Values - lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders  Sardar Patel – The Iron Man of India Context: Sardar Vallabhai Patel’s death anniversary on 15th December 2021. “By common endeavour we can raise the country to a new greatness, while a lack of unity will expose us to fresh calamities.” These pragmatic but profound remarks defined the vision and the sterling character of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, the principal unifier of modern India. First Deputy Prime Minister of India Provided good governance as an able administrator in diverse fields like modern farming and empowerment of tribal communities Force behind unification Patel was a statesman with a strong sense of realpolitik, a realist to the core and an earthy politician whose sole aim was to build a strong and united India. The princely rulers had the option at that time to either accede to India or Pakistan or remain independent. Widely considered to be the architect of modern India, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel played an important role in the integration of all the princely states (especially Hyderabad, Junagadh and Kashmir) into the Indian Union after the British left India in 1947. Hailing Patel’s feat, Lord Mountbatten declared the unification of India as the first great success of the new independent government. Patel’s wisdom, foresight, patriotism, tact, persuasive powers and abiding commitment to fair play enabled him to untangle a highly complex political and social problem without triggering any kind of revolt or civil unrest. Operation Polo (Hyderabad) and case of Junagarh Patel was also compelled to use coercion by launching ‘Operation Polo’ to liberate and integrate Hyderabad after the Nizam of Hyderabad entertained false hopes of either joining Pakistan or remaining independent. In a swift operation lasting five days, Hyderabad State was liberated in September 1948. It was the most critical time when the country’s political unity was in jeopardy, India found the man of the moment in Sardar Patel. Displaying statesmanship of the highest order, Sardar Patel prevented the attempts to not only Balkanise India but internationalise the issue as well. The complicated case of Junagarh, Gujarat, was also handled with dexterity by Patel. Leader of Gujarat Organised peasants from Kheda, Borsad, and Bardoli in Gujarat in non-violent civil disobedience against the British Raj, becoming one of the most influential leaders in Gujarat. He earned the title of “Sardar” after spearheading a no-tax campaign by peasants at Bardoli in Gujarat. The manner in which he marshalled the peasants and the unflinching stand taken by him eventually forced the authorities to roll back the taxes. He also led the relief and rehabilitation operations when Gujarat was ravaged by floods and worked tirelessly during a plague outbreak in Ahmedabad. A builder of India Patel himself termed the entire exercise as a “bloodless revolution” when he wanted the Constituent Assembly to consider privy purse settlements for the surrender by the rulers of all their ruling powers and the dissolution of the States as separate units. Patel was an ardent follower of Mahatma Gandhi and never swerved in his loyalty to his mentor, although there were occasions when he differed with him. Similarly, he did not see eye-to-eye with Jawaharlal Nehru on certain issues, including the handling of Jammu and Kashmir. But he did not allow these differences or personal ego to come in the way of protecting the larger interests of the country. He worked shoulder-to-shoulder with Nehru in building a modern India. Architect of the steel frame The Iron Man of India was the chief architect of India’s steel frame — the civil services. Thus, the All India Services were seen as an important cementing force in promoting the unity and integrity of the nation. It will be relevant to recall his famous address to the civil service probationers in 1947, when Patel told them that the service will have to adopt its true role of national service without being trammelled upon by traditions and habits of the past. He is also remembered as the “patron saint of India’s civil servants” for having established the modern all-India services system. “A civil servant cannot afford to, and must not, take part in politics. Nor must he involve himself in communal wrangles. To depart from the path of rectitude in either of these respects is to debase public service and to lower its dignity,” he had cautioned them on April 21, 1947. The man of integrity and intentions of “nation first” He readily accepted the Mahatma Gandhi’s advice to withdraw his candidacy for the post of Congress President in favour of Pandit Nehru in 1946, although a majority of State Congress committees supported his candidature. It was apparent that the Congress President would become the first Prime Minister of India. It once again proved his noble intention of placing the country’s interests above self. His love for the motherland was best described by Maulana Azad when he said: “He made his choice out of two courses that come before a man, namely would he live for his country or for himself? Sardar chose his country.” Criticisms: Patel’s idea of unity was incomplete.  He may have created a united India, but this India remains full of contradictions and inequalities, both social and economic. Politically, we may be equal and united, but socially and economically we are not. Acknowledging the monumental contribution of Patel in nation building, Jawaharlal Nehru said, “History will call him the builder and consolidator of new India.” The remarks Patel made during the Quit India Movement are also relevant today. He said: “We have to shed mutual bickering, shed the difference of being high or low and develop the sense of equality and banish untouchability. We have to live like the children of the same father”. Connecting the dots: Statue of Unity On Sadhu Hill Standing at 182 meters in the middle of river Narmada at Kevadia in Gujarat’s Narmada district, the Statue of Unity is the tallest statue in the world– much taller than the 153 metre Spring Temple Buddha in China and almost twice the size of the Statue of Liberty in New York. (remember the places for Prelims) One can have a view of the Satpura and Vindhyachal mountain ranges, which also form the point where Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat and Maharashtra meet. (Prelims centric fact) Visitors can also get a distant view of the 12-km-long Garudeshwar Reservoir (which will help ensure there is always water around the statue), which is located downstream from the Narmada dam. (Prelims centric – location of the reservoir) Man Behind the Statue: Shri Ram Vanji Sutar, the 93-year-old sculptor. ENVIRONMENT/ ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE GS-3: Indian Economy and challenges GS-3: Major crops-cropping patterns in various parts of the country, - different types of irrigation and irrigation systems GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation.  The push for Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) Context: Zero budget natural farming (ZBNF) is back on top of the Government's agricultural agenda, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi set to highlight it at a national conclave in Gujarat. The Centre has sanctioned support for converting four lakh additional hectares of crop land in eight States to using ZBNF techniques this year. This is meant to provide a showcase for their benefits although scientific studies on the method have not yet been completed. What is it and how did it come about?  Zero budget natural farming is a method of chemical-free agriculture drawing from traditional Indian practices.  It was originally promoted by agriculturist and Padma Shri recipient Subhash Palekar, who developed it in the mid-1990s as an alternative to the Green Revolution’s methods driven by chemical fertilizers, pesticides and intensive irrigation.  He argued that the rising cost of these external inputs was a leading cause of indebtedness and suicide among farmers, while the impact of chemicals on the environment and on long-term fertility was devastating.  Without the need to spend money on these inputs — or take loans to buy them — the cost of production could be reduced and farming made into a “zero budget” exercise, breaking the debt cycle for many small farmers.  The “four wheels” of ZBNF are ‘Jiwamrita’, ‘Bijamrita’, ‘Mulching’ and ‘Waaphasa’, says Palekar Jiwamrita It is a mixture of fresh cow dung and aged cow urine, jaggery, pulse flour, water and soil. This is a fermented microbial culture that adds nutrients to the soil and acts as a catalytic agent to promote the activity of microorganisms and earthworms in the soil. About 200 litres of jivamrita should be sprayed twice a month per acre of land; after three years, the system is supposed to become self-sustaining.  Only one cow is needed for 30 acres of land, according to Mr. Palekar, with the condition that it must be a local Indian breed — not an imported Jersey or Holstein.  Bijamrita It is a mix of desi cow dung and urine, water, bund soil and lime that is used as a seed treatment solution prior to sowing. Mulching It is covering the plants with a layer of dried straw or fallen leaves, is meant to conserve soil moisture and keep the temperature around the roots at 25-32 degrees Celsius, which allows the microorganisms to do their job. Waaphasa It is providing water to maintain the required moisture-air balance, also achieves the same objective. Mr. Palekar is against vermicomposting, which is the mainstay of typical organic farming, as it introduces the most common composting worm, the European red wiggler (Eisenia fetida) to Indian soils. He claims these worms absorb toxic metals and poison groundwater and soil.  What are the advantages of Zero Budget Natural Farming? Promotes Better agronomic practices: The ZBNF method promotes soil aeration, minimal watering, intercropping, bunds and topsoil mulching and discourages intensive irrigation and deep ploughing. Small Farmer Friendly: As both a social and environmental programme, it aims to ensure that farming – particularly smallholder farming – is economically viable by enhancing farm biodiversity and ecosystem services. Reduces Cost to Farmers: Through eliminating external inputs and using in-situ resources to rejuvenate soils, the farmers cost is reduced whilst simultaneously increasing incomes, and restoring ecosystem health through diverse, multi-layered cropping systems. Efficient use of Cow dung: Cow dung from local cows has proven to be a miraculous cure to revive the fertility and nutrient value of soil. One gram of cow dung is believed to have anywhere between 300 to 500 crore beneficial micro-organisms. These micro-organisms decompose the dried biomass on the soil and convert it into ready-to-use nutrients for plants. Environment Friendly: Zero budget natural farming requires only 10 per cent water and 10 per cent electricity than what is required under chemical and organic farming. ZBNF may improve the potential of crops to adapt to and be produced for evolving climatic conditions. Is it effective?  A limited 2017 study in Andhra Pradesh claimed a sharp decline in input costs and improvement in yields.  However, reports also suggest that many farmers, including from Mr. Palekar’s native Maharashtra, have reverted to conventional farming after seeing their ZBNF returns drop after a few years, in turn raising doubts about the method’s efficacy in increasing farmers’ incomes.  ZBNF critics, including some experts within the central policy and planning think tank NITI Aayog, note that India needed the Green Revolution in order to become self-sufficient and ensure food security.  Critics warn against a wholesale move away from that model without sufficient proof that yields will not be affected.  Sikkim, which has seen some decline in yields following a conversion to organic farming, is used as a cautionary tale regarding the pitfalls of abandoning chemical fertilizers.  In 2019, soon after Prime Minister praised ZBNF while addressing a United Nations conference on desertification, the National Academy of Agricultural Sciences wrote to Mr. Modi warning against promoting the method without sufficient research to assess its long-term impact.  Which are the States with big plans?  The Centre has sanctioned the proposals of eight States for support under the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana scheme this year.  Andhra Pradesh has the biggest ambition to bring one lakh additional hectares of land under ZBNF under the scheme, followed by Chhattisgarh, with 85,000 additional hectares and Gujarat, with 71,000 additional hectares. Government has said the proposals being implemented under the scheme would be used to showcase the benefits of the method.  What lies ahead?  The Prime Minister is set to promote ZBNF’s benefits and provide more details on the strategies to implement it at valedictory session of a three-day national summit on agro and food processing, with a focus on natural farming, which is being held in Anand, Gujarat. Over 5,000 farmers are expected to be present in person. So far as scientific validation is concerned, all eyes are focussed on the Indian Council of Agricultural Research, which is conducting studies on the ZBNF methods practised by basmati and wheat farmers in Modipuram (Uttar Pradesh), Ludhiana (Punjab), Pantnagar (Uttarakhand) and Kurukshetra (Haryana), evaluating the impact on productivity, economics and soil health including soil organic carbon and soil fertility.  The Agriculture Secretary said such studies needed at least three years to arrive at a conclusion.  Connecting the dots: Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana scheme Srilankan Economic Crisis due to forced Organic Farming (Sansad TV: Perspective) Dec 13: Electronic Waste Management - https://youtu.be/wsNtsH7jHz0  TOPIC: GS-2 – Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS 3 - Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation Electronic Waste Management Context: Electrical and electronic equipments have become an essential part of everyday life. Its availability and widespread use have enabled much of the global population to benefit from higher standards of living. However, the way in which we produce, consume, and dispose of e-waste is unsustainable.  According to Global E-waste Monitor 2020, the world generated a striking 53.6 Mt of e-waste in 2019 which is an average of 7.3 kg per capita.  The growing amount of e-waste is mainly fueled by higher consumption rates of Electronic equipments, short life cycles, and few repair options.  Since 2014, the number of countries that have adopted a national e-waste policy, legislation or regulation has increased from 61 to 78.  In India Around 12.9 million women are working in informal waste sector expose themselves to toxic e-waste (like Nickel, lead and Mercury) and put them and their unborn children at risk.  Children exposed to e waste are particularly vulnerable to the toxic chemicals they contain due to their smaller size, less developed organs and rapid rate of growth and Development.  India is the third largest electronic waste generator after China and USA.  In 2016 India enacted E waste (Management) Rules under which e Waste is categorised under two broad categories: Information technology and Telecommunications equipment and consumer electrical and electronic.  Unsustainable E-waste E-waste contains several toxic additives or hazardous substances such as mercury, brominated flame retardants (BFR), CFCs and HCFCs.  The increasing levels of e-waste, low collection rates, and non-environmentally sound disposal and treatment of this waste stream pose significant risks to the environment and to human health.  Improper management of e-waste also contributes to global warming.  The Way Forward Government— Governments should set up regulatory agencies in each district, which are vested with the responsibility of co-ordinating and consolidating the regulatory functions of the various government authorities regarding hazardous substances Governments must encourage research into the development and standard of hazardous waste management, environmental monitoring and the regulation of hazardous waste-disposal. Governments should enforce strict regulations and heavy fines levied on industries, which do not practice waste prevention and recovery in the production facilities. Polluter pays principle and extended producer responsibility should be adopted. Governments should encourage and support NGOs and other organizations to involve actively in solving the nation’s e-waste problems. Industries: Generators of wastes should take responsibility to determine the output characteristics of wastes and if hazardous, should provide management options. All personnel involved in handling e-waste in industries including those at the policy, management, control and operational levels, should be properly qualified and trained. Companies can and should adopt waste minimization techniques (“reverse production” system) that designs infrastructure to recover and reuse every material contained within e-wastes metals Citizens: While buying electronic products opt for those that: are made with fewer toxic constituents use recycled content and are energy efficient are designed for easy upgrading or disassembly utilize minimal packaging and offer leasing or take back options have been certified by regulatory authorities Refer:  Mindmap Children and Digital Dumpsites Report released by WHO Can you answer the following question? What are the sustainable strategies to address the problem of e-waste? Discuss. Is India a signatory to the Basel Convention? What are the fundamental aims of the Basel Convention and in light of the recent spell of ‘climate change’, how can developed countries be torchbearers of good e-waste management skills? (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1 Which of the following is the 1st festival in Asia to achieve recognition as UNESCO ICH of Humanity? Taiwan Lantern Festival  Phi Ta Khon  Ice And Snow Festival Durga Puja Q.2 Consider the following statements: Its northern boundary runs along the international border with Bhutan.  It represents the highly endemic Indo-Malayan region.  The forest of the reserve is classified as the Moist Tropical forest. Rajabhatkhawa Vulture Breeding Center for the breeding and conservation of endangered Indian vultures was established as the second such center in India. Which of the following tiger reserve is being described above? Namdapha Tiger reserve Manas Tiger reserve Buxa Tiger reserve Valmiki Tiger reserve Q.3 Sixth schedule deals with which of the following? List of states and union territories and their territories Provisions as to the allocation of seats in the Council of States. Provisions as to the Administration and Control of Scheduled Areas and Scheduled Tribes. Provisions as to the Administration of Tribal Areas in the States of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram. ANSWERS FOR 16th Dec 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 D 2 C 3 D Must Read On Pakistan-Bangladesh relations:   The Hindu On Pandemic & Protectionism: The Hindu On Boosting agrifood life sciences: Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 16th December 2021

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

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 1 Questions [16th December, 2021] – Day 52

Archives Hello Students   TLP has been an integral ingredient of success for many toppers is no secret. In the ‘must do’ list for the civil services exam, TLP is by far the most popular initiative. The popularity stems from the unparalleled quality of questions and synopsis posted in TLP. We strive hard to ensure that you get the real feel of UPSC standard before you write the Mains.   You already know the features of TLP. Just to reiterate briefly, in the TLP initiative, we post 5 questions daily for a certain number of weeks (11 for this one). We follow a micro plan that is designed to give you daily targets. The questions are from the day’s syllabus and also from current affairs and you are expected to write the answers and post them on the portal.   This year onwards TLP will have a Dedicated Portal for Focused Preparation (tlpmains.iasbaba.com). There will be a separate dedicated portal similar to (RaRe Series) which students loved and appreciated. The Portal will help you stay focused and keep your preparation streamlined. The Registration link for the dedicated portal is given at the end of the post. We are charging a token amount of 10/- for registration to the dedicated portal. We are doing it because we want to create a community of sincere aspirants who are focused and motivated till the Mains Examination. Please don’t take it otherwise. It is our honest effort to give you the best and at the same time expect students to come with the same energy and dedication to the dedicated platform specially designed for YOU! Join our bandwagon, you won’t regret it. UPSC 2022 Aspirants are encouraged to participate as well. Register Here - CLICK HERE  To Know More About TLP 2022 (Phase 2) - CLICK HERE To Access Day 52 Questions - CLICK HERE P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm every day. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each other’s answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best 

UPSC हिन्दी Quiz– 2021: IASbaba Daily Current Affairs Quiz 15th December 2021

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

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th December 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Char Dham Highways Part of: Prelims and GS-I - Geography and GS III - Security; Infrastructure Context The Supreme Court upheld the Government’s mandate to broaden three Himalayan highways, considered crucial by the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for quick troop build-up along the India-China border. Key takeaways  The three National Highways are Rishikesh to Mana, Rishikesh to Gangotri and Tanakpur to Pithoragarh.  These act as feeder roads to the northern border with China. They are part of the Char Dham Highway project. The highways will now be developed in accordance with the double lane with paved shoulder (DLPS) system. Do you know?  In the great Himalayas in Uttarakhand, the four pilgrim-destinations namely Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath and Badrinath are collectively known as Chardham. Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework for NBFCs Part of: Prelims and GS-III -Economy Context The Reserve Bank of India announced a Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework for Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs), to strengthen applicable supervisory tools. current affairs image Key takeaways  This will take effect October 1, 2022. This is in line with the PCA framework for banks  Aim is to help improve their financial condition and governance issues. The framework will apply to all deposit-taking NBFCs, all non-deposit taking NBFCs in the middle, upper and top layers,  It has excluded NBFCs not accepting or not intending to accept public funds, primary dealers and housing finance firms, along with government-owned ones. Non-Banking Financial Company It is a financial institution that does not have a full banking license or is not supervised by a national or international banking regulatory agency.  The most important difference between non-banking financial companies and banks is that NBFCs don’t take demand deposits.   Wholesale Price Index (WPI) Part of: Prelims and GS-III - Economy  Context Wholesale inflation, based on the Wholesale Price Index, jumped to 14.23% in November from 12.54% in October (on a year-on-year basis) Key takeaways  It was primarily due to rise in food prices especially of vegetables, and minerals and petroleum product This is the highest level of wholesale inflation in the 2011-12 series and eighth consecutive month in which it has stayed at a double-digit level. Retail inflation also showed an increase 4.91% despite a cut in excise duty on fuels.  Gap between WPI and CPI inflation Despite not being a policy tool, the surge in the WPI is a cause of worry.  While the CPI-based retail inflation looks at the price at which the consumer buys goods, the WPI tracks prices at the wholesale, or factory gate/mandi levels. Between the wholesale price and the retail price, the difference essentially is the former only tracks basic prices devoid of transportation cost, taxes and the retail margin etc. WPI takes only goods into account, not services.   WPI is primarily used as a GDP deflator RBI’s Co-lending model Part of: Prelims and GS-III - Economy Context Several banks have entered into co-lending ‘master agreements’ with NBFCs following November 2020’s RBI approval of co-lending model.  About Co-lending model (CLM) The CLM seeks to provide greater flexibility to the lending institutions. The primary focus is to improve the flow of credit to the unserved and underserved sector of the economy.  Under CLM, banks can provide loans along with NBFCs to priority sector borrowers based on a prior agreement. Under priority sector norms, banks are mandated to lend a particular portion of their funds to specified sectors, like agriculture, MSME and social infrastructure. The co-lending banks will take their share of the individual loans on a back-to-back basis in their books. As per a notification by RBI, NBFCs will be the single point of interface for the customers and shall enter into a loan agreement with the borrowers.  All transactions have to be routed through an escrow account maintained with the banks, in order to avoid inter-mingling of funds. Suitable arrangements must be put in place by the co-lenders to resolve any complaint registered by a borrower with the NBFC within 30 days. (News from PIB) Gita Jayanti: 14th December Khelo India U21 Women’s Hockey League Part of: Prelims About: Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has designed this league to give emerging talent an additional opportunity to gain competitive exposure. Organised by the Sports Authority of India in collaboration with Hockey India, the first phase of the 14-team League will get rolling with a match between Odisha Naval Tata Hockey High Performance Centre, Bhubaneswar and Raja Karan Hockey Academy, Karnal. A total of 14 teams will be vying for honours over the course of seven days here. Survey on Beggars Part of: Prelims  Context: As per Census 2011, there are 4,13,670 beggars and vagrants in the country. As many as 19 States and 3 UTs have either enacted their own Anti Beggary Legislation or adopted the legislation enacted by other States. However, the provisions of these legislations vary from one another and their implementation, including the measures taken for rehabilitation of beggars, are also not uniform. Most of the States/UTs have adopted “The Bombay Prevention of Begging Act 1959” which criminalizes beggary. At this point, there is no proposal to bring model legislation for States to decriminalise begging. SMILE - Support for Marginalized Individuals for Livelihood and Enterprise By: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment Includes a sub-scheme - ‘Central Sector Scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation of persons engaged in the act of Begging’ This scheme covers several comprehensive measures including welfare measures for persons who are engaged in the act of begging.  The focus of the scheme is extensively on rehabilitation, provision of medical facilities, counseling, basic documentation, education, skill development, economic linkages and so on. News Source: PIB Public Distribution System (PDS) and E-Governance in Panchayati Raj Institutions Part of: Prelims and Mains –II: Government schemes and policies Under End-to-End computerization of Targeted PDS: To improve the efficiency & transparency of the distribution of food grains system and to address other challenges, such as leakages and diversion of food grains, elimination of fake and bogus ration cards etc.  ration cards/beneficiaries database have been completely digitized in all States/UTs, transparency portal and online grievance redressal facilities/toll-free numbers have been implemented  online allocation has been implemented  Supply chain has been computerized in 31 States/UTs. Automation of Fair Price Shops (FPS) is also being done by installing electronic Point of Sale (ePoS) devices at the FPSs for the distribution of food grains in a transparent manner (electronically) and for unique identification of genuine beneficiaries through biometric/Aadhaar authentication on the ePoS device. Under Digital India Programme Ministry of Panchayati Raj is implementing e-Panchayat Mission Mode Project, in the country to revamp the functioning of Panchayats and to make them more transparent, accountable and effective.  Ministry launched eGramSwaraj a simplified work-based Accounting application to address various aspects of Panchayat functioning viz. planning, accounting, budgeting. Further, Ministry has also integrated e-Gram SWARAJ with Public Financial Management System for Gram Panchayats to make real time payments to vendors/service providers.  Note: According to the seventh schedule, local government is a State subject.  Article 243 of Part IX of the Constitution, which contains provisions dealing with Panchayat, does not differentiate amongst persons on the basis of their sex.   Under Article 243D of the constitution, provisions have been made for reservation of Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Women. Legislatures of States have also been empowered to make provision for reservation of seats in any Panchayat or offices of Chairpersons in the Panchayats at any level in favour of backward class of citizens in terms of clause (6) of Article 243D of the constitution.  Transgenders belonging to these categories are accordingly eligible to participate in the decision-making process of Panchayats. News Source: PIB  National Livestock Mission Part of: Mains GS-III: Agriculture & Allied Sectors Context: The National Livestock Mission (NLM) scheme is being implemented in the country since 2014, and has been realigned during 2021-22 – Employment generation Entrepreneurship development Increase in per animal productivity and thus targeting increased production of meat, goat milk, egg and wool.  Objectives are: Employment generation through entrepreneurship development in small ruminant, poultry, piggery and Fodder sector. Increase of per animal productivity through breed improvement Increase in production of meat, egg, goat milk, wool and fodder. Increasing availability of fodder and feed to substantially reduce the demand – through strengthening the fodder seed supply chain and availability of certified fodder seeds. Encouraging establishment of fodder processing units to reduce the demand supply gap Promoting risk management measures including livestock insurance for farmers. Promoting applied research in prioritized areas of poultry, sheep, goat, feed and fodder Capacity building of state functionaries and livestock owners through strengthened extension machinery to provide quality extension service to farmers Promoting skill-based training and dissemination of technologies for reducing cost of production and improving production of livestock sector. Note: The National Livestock Mission includes camel. News Source: PIB  (Mains Focus) ENVIRONMENT/ INTERNATIONAL/ GOVERNANCE GS-3: Environment GS-2: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests. Climate Change and UNSC Context: A contentious proposal to authorise the UN Security Council to deliberate on climate change-related issues was rejected after veto-wielding Russia and India voted against it.  The draft resolution, piloted by Ireland and Niger, had been in the making for several months, and sought to create a formal space in the Security Council for discussions on climate change and its implications on international security. This was the second time in weeks that India went against the tide to block a climate change-related proposal that it did not agree with. What is the issue? The UN already has a specialised agency, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change or UNFCCC, for discussing all matters related to climate change.  The parties to the UNFCCC — over 190 countries — meet several times every year, including at a two-week year-ending conference like the one at Glasgow, to work on a global approach to combat climate change. It is this process that has given rise to the Paris Agreement, and its predecessor the Kyoto Protocol, the international instrument that is designed to respond to the climate change crisis. The Security Council, on the other hand, exists primarily to prevent conflicts and maintain global peace. For the last few years, however, a few European countries, led by Germany, have been pushing for a role for Security Council in climate change discussions as well, arguing that climate change had an international security dimension.  Climate change-induced food or water shortage, loss of habitat or livelihood, or migration can exacerbate existing conflicts or even create new ones. This can have implications for the UN field missions that are deployed across the world in peacekeeping efforts. What was the proposal? The draft resolution piloted by Ireland and Niger was not the first attempt at bringing climate change on Security Council’s agenda.  In 2020, a similar, stronger resolution was proposed by Germany. However, it was never put to vote because of possible objections from the United States, which had made it clear that it would block any such attempt with a veto.  Germany’s two-year term at the Security Council was in 2020 but the proposal had other backers, and Ireland and Niger agreed to refresh the draft resolution.  On the face of it, the draft resolution seemed academic in nature.  It called for UN Secretary General to submit a report on security aspects of climate change in the next two years.  It also asked the Secretary General to appoint a special envoy for climate security.  Further, it asked UN field missions to regularly report on climate change assessments in their areas of operation and take the help of climate experts in carrying out their routine functions. Does that mean that UNSC has not discussed climate change at all? Existence of Precedence: Although it is not the forum to discuss climate change, the Security Council and its secretariat has hosted a few debates and informal discussions on the subject in the past.  Increased Traction in recent years: According to a recent research report, the frequency of such discussions has increased significantly since 2017, with climate change finding a mention in several Security Council decisions as well.  It said several European countries, initially led by Sweden and the Netherlands, began to make efforts towards integration of the security implications of climate change in the Security Council’s work. Nigeria Case Study: One of the UN’s visiting missions in Lake Chad region heard from Nigerian President about how the shrinking of Lake Chad, a direct consequence of climate change, had contributed to the rise of the Boko Haram.  Issoufou told the mission that the lake had lost 90 per cent of its surface area since the 1960s, which had destroyed livelihoods of local communities which became fertile ground for Boko Haram to grow.  This account of the Nigerian President left an impression on several UNSC members. Which countries are opposing the inclusion of Climate change discussion in UNSC? Russia and China, two permanent members with veto powers, have always been opposed to the move to bring climate change on the Security Council agenda.  US was earlier opposing it but it has switched sides this year. India, which started a two-year term in January 2021, joined ranks with Russia and China. Brazil, which will join the Security Council next year, is also known to be against this move. While the draft resolution was said to have the support of more than 100 countries, Russia said many developing countries had been backing it in the hope that they would get some assistance in fighting climate change. What are the objections raised? Dedicated Forum will lose its relevance: The opposing countries have been arguing that the UNFCCC must remain the appropriate forum for addressing all climate change-related issues, and claim the Security Council does not have the expertise to do so.  Consensual Decision Making will be lost: Opposition countries have also been pointing out that unlike UNFCCC, where decisions are taken by consensus of all the 190-plus countries, the UNSC would enable climate change decision-making by a handful of developed countries. Accountability of Developed Countries diluted: Also, many of the UNSC members are the main contributors of climate change due to historical emissions. If the Security Council indeed takes over the responsibility on this issue, a few states will then have a free hand in deciding on all climate related issues which is clearly neither desirable nor acceptable. Connecting the dots: Glasgow Pact of 2021  Paris Climate Deal  IPCC report on Climate Change Tackling the Climate Crisis ECONOMY/GOVERNANCE GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.  Neo Banks Vs Traditional Banks What are Neo-banks? Neo-banks are online-only financial technology (fintech) companies that operate solely digitally or via mobile apps. Simply put, neo-banks are digital banks without any physical branches. How are they different from the traditional banks? Neo-banks are disrupting the traditional banking system by leveraging technology and artificial intelligence (AI) to offer a range of personalised services to customers.  On the other hand, traditional banks follow an omni-channel approach i.e. having both physical (through branches and ATMs) and digital banking presence to offer a multitude of products and services. Right from customer acquisition to traditional banking services such as remittances, money transfers, utility payments and personal finance, neo-banks offer a wide range of offerings to customers across retail and small-to-medium enterprise (SME) categories.  Typically, neo-banks apply a design thinking approach to a particular banking area and tailor their products and services in a manner that makes banking simpler and convenient to the end consumers. How are they evolving? The term ‘Neo-bank’ started gaining prominence globally in 2017 as they emerged as a new challenger to the traditional banks in terms of customer engagement, connectivity and reach, and most importantly, the user experience.  That is why neobanks are also called ‘challenger banks’.  The market potential for neo-banks is driven by the rising penetration of the internet and smartphones across the globe. The global neo-banking market size is expected to reach $333.4 billion by 2026, rising at a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 47.1 per cent.  There are around a dozen neo-banks in India including Razorpay X, EpiFi, Open, NiYo, Jupiter among others.  What are the advantgaes of neo-banks? Low costs - Fewer regulations and the absence of credit risk allow neo-banks to keep their costs low. Products are typically less expensive, with no monthly maintenance fees. Personalised services- These banks offer customers personalised services according to the needs of customers by leveraging technologies Speed - Neo-banks allow customers to set up accounts quickly and process requests speedily. Innovative strategies are employed to determine the credit value of the person while offering loans thereby cutting the usual time-consuming verification process. Can they replace traditional banks? Not entirely. Neo-banks offer only a small range of products and services as compared to a whole gamut of services that traditional banks offer.  Besides, since neo-banks are highly digital focused, they may not be able to cater to the banking needs of non-tech savvy consumers or people from the rural parts of the country, who believe in face-to-face interaction with their financial custodians.  As of 2020, India had a smartphone penetration rate of just about 54 per cent. What are the challenges that they face? First and foremost is building trust. Unlike traditional banks, neo-banks don’t have a physical presence, so customers cannot literally ‘bank upon’ them in case of any issues/challenges.  Secondly, neo-banks are yet to be recognised by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). So, they have to engage with regulated banks and financial institutions to offer financial products and services.  Due to the absence of enabling regulations, neo-banks cannot accept deposits or offer lending products on their own books.  That is why some fintechs have a non-banking financial company (NBFC) as their parent to engage in lending activities while most others partner with banks and financial institutions. Connecting the dots: MFIs: Digital and Physical Micro-lending Cooperative Banking RBI Regulatory Sandbox (Down to Earth: Governance) Dec 14: Bonded labour, child labour – https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/governance/bonded-labour-child-labour-manual-scavenging-in-india-far-from-being-eradicated-80673  TOPIC: GS-2 – Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Bonded labour, child labour: Manual scavenging in India far from being eradicated Context: The Union government, in response to a question in the Lok Sabha during the Winter Session, said it has achieved the target of abolishing manual scavenging. But this seems far from reality –  manual scavengers in the country are not only working as contractual, migrant and casual workers and labourers but also as bonded labourers in Jharkhand, Maharashtra, Odisha, Tripura and Bihar. What are the issues? The State with the highest numbers: Jharkhand, with 763 manual scavengers working as bonded labour — the highest in India — puts the new labour codes to shame. Over 30,356 children in the state still work as labour engaged in direct scavenging; sweeping; railway track, sewer and septic tank cleaning; and assisting jobs.  Lack of categorization:  The government not only cannot distinguish between “manual scavenging – a caste-based practice of people cleaning human excreta by hand — and the practice of cleaning sewers and septic tanks, but also needs to add newer categorisations in The Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and Their Rehabilitation (PEMSR) ACT, 2013.”  Insanitary places: Manual scavenging also persists due to the continued presence of “insanitary latrines,” where human waste has to be cleaned physically and not by a machine or sewage system. The majority of such latrines are dry latrines, which don’t use water. According to the 2011 Census, there are about 2.6 million dry latrines in India. Lack of Protective Gears and lack of proper definition for it: Protective gear like gloves, gas masks and boots are often not provided by employers, in violation of the 2013 law, leading to diseases and even death. There is no proper accountability system in place. The 2013 Act allows manual scavenging if the employer provides ‘protective gear’; However, the Act does not define what constitutes ‘protective gear,’ creating a possibility for employers to exploit this provision. Forced employment: Sanitation workers below 16 are also twice more susceptible to be forced to work from time to time as manual scavengers. Girls suffer the most and even receive  rape threats if they refuse to clean the dry latrines. The newer dry latrines also become the hotbed for illegal contractual pre-conditions and arrangements, with children forced into labour. This makes manual scavenging one of the largest employers of children in India, with a share as high as the agricultural sector. But what makes it more severe than the agricultural sector is that over 97 per cent of all these children belong to scheduled castes. Social Welfare schemes: The assistance programme for rehabilitation has failed lakhs of manual scavengers in India who are still waiting for any kind of primary support, even as the government states that the identified and eligible manual scavengers have been provided assistance for their rehabilitation. More than 20 per cent of the manual scavengers were never recorded through the PEMSR Act.  In the last five years, over 600 people have died during the hazardous cleaning of sewer and septic tanks.  Over 40 per cent of these 58,098 manual scavengers have not received any form of one-time cash assistance (OTCA) or compensation.  Only 17,660 below the age of 21 have received OTCA. Way Ahead Re-Evaluating the State of Toilets: The dependence on unimproved water sources in rural India even within sanitary toilets increases the need to re-evaluate the obsession with toilet construction in India.  Reforms for Sanitation Labours: The sanitation system needs to go hand in hand with the water system, combined with an assessment of sanitation behaviour and sanitation labour reforms in India, at every single step. Eradication of Dry Latrines and Hanging Toilets: The usage of both dry latrines and hanging toilets puts the communities around them at high risk of illness, beyond Covid-19. Therefore, both the construction and usage of these units needs to be eradicated. Conclusion The mere circulation of a national policy on mechanisation does not ensure the implementation on the ground. The questions that arise are:  What steps has the government taken to ensure implementation?  If manual scavenging is abolished, who are these people still forced to clean these 1.2 million dry latrines?  The government also needs to give a response on manual scavengers working forcefully as bonded labour in India and how will the new labour code fix it? Mahatma Gandhi: “Everyone must be his own scavenger.” Can you answer the following question? Human dignity remains a far-fetched utopia unless and until the poorest of all are forced to adopt manual scavenging as a means to subsistence. Comment.  Why even after complete ban and strict penal provisions, the demeaning practice of manual scavenging persists in India. Examine. Elaborate upon the measures adopted for the betterment of manual scavengers. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1 Prompt Corrective Action framework (PCA) is associated with which of the following? Banking  Disaster management J&K’s President’s rule  AFSPA Q.2 Which of these listed below has the highest weightage in Wholesale Price Index (WPI)? Primary goods Fuel and Power Manufactured Products All of the above Q.3 Consider the following statements regarding the RBI’s co-lending model (CLM): The primary focus is to improve the flow of credit to the unserved and underserved sector of the economy.  Under CLM, banks can provide loans along with NBFCs to priority sector borrowers based on a prior agreement. Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  ANSWERS FOR 15th Dec 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 C 3 C Must Read On CBSE Misogyny question in exam paper:   The Hindu On National Monetisation Plan: The Hindu On Indo- German ties: Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 15th December 2021

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

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 1 Questions [15th December, 2021] – Day 51

Archives Hello Students   TLP has been an integral ingredient of success for many toppers is no secret. In the ‘must do’ list for the civil services exam, TLP is by far the most popular initiative. The popularity stems from the unparalleled quality of questions and synopsis posted in TLP. We strive hard to ensure that you get the real feel of UPSC standard before you write the Mains.   You already know the features of TLP. Just to reiterate briefly, in the TLP initiative, we post 5 questions daily for a certain number of weeks (11 for this one). We follow a micro plan that is designed to give you daily targets. The questions are from the day’s syllabus and also from current affairs and you are expected to write the answers and post them on the portal.   This year onwards TLP will have a Dedicated Portal for Focused Preparation (tlpmains.iasbaba.com). There will be a separate dedicated portal similar to (RaRe Series) which students loved and appreciated. The Portal will help you stay focused and keep your preparation streamlined. The Registration link for the dedicated portal is given at the end of the post. We are charging a token amount of 10/- for registration to the dedicated portal. We are doing it because we want to create a community of sincere aspirants who are focused and motivated till the Mains Examination. Please don’t take it otherwise. It is our honest effort to give you the best and at the same time expect students to come with the same energy and dedication to the dedicated platform specially designed for YOU! Join our bandwagon, you won’t regret it. UPSC 2022 Aspirants are encouraged to participate as well. Register Here - CLICK HERE  To Know More About TLP 2022 (Phase 2) - CLICK HERE To Access Day 51 Questions - CLICK HERE P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm every day. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each other’s answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best 

UPSC हिन्दी Quiz– 2021: IASbaba Daily Current Affairs Quiz 14th December 2021

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