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Creative Guidance – Why can't we sit quiet? – Inspirational Educative Articles

Why can't we sit quiet? We are afraid to face the real questions of our existence, and our easiest escape from facing those important questions of life is to get busy. We are contented to busy ourselves to accomplish as many things as possible, instead of taking some time to reflect in silence and solitude about the nature of life and our place in it. This is why one of the most difficult things to do is to simply sit quiet. This is also why meditation is such a difficult proposition for many - not because meditation is inherently difficult, but because we have become too accustomed to losing ourselves in the various activities of life. This is why watching a movie, meeting friends, going on a vacation, or planning for the future is infinitely easier when compared to sitting quiet in meditation. The very fact that sitting quiet is difficult should tell us something very important. It tells us that there is a lot of pain within us that we don’t want to see. We prefer to be distracted by some external activity because we are afraid to face the reality of our inner nature. We are afraid of discovering something about ourselves that we don’t already know. It is almost like we are afraid of ourselves. Why else should sitting quiet be such a big problem? “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Nirvana Foundation and IASBABA.”  

UPSC हिन्दी Quiz– 2021: IASbaba Daily Current Affairs Quiz 30th October 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 – 30th October 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) Part of: Prelims and GS II - Policies and interventions Context According to its own financial statement, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme shows a negative net balance of Rs. 8,686 crore. The Centre’s flagship rural employment scheme has run out of funds halfway through the financial year, and supplementary budgetary allocations will not come to the rescue for at least another month when the next Parliamentary session begins. Key takeaways  The scheme’s 2021-22 budget was set at just Rs. 73,000 crore. The Central government argued that the nationwide lockdown was over, and that supplementary budgetary allocations would be available if the money ran out.  However, as on October 29, the total expenditure, including payments due had already reached Rs. 79,810 crore. 21 States show a negative net balance, with Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and West Bengal faring the worst. What is Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)? Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA) was notified in 2005. Goal – To improve the livelihood security of people in rural areas. It is a universal scheme guaranteeing 100 days of wage employment in a year to every rural household that expresses a demand.  It aims to guarantee the ‘Right to Work’. Every registered household receives a Job Card (JC) to track their work completed. The scheme is implemented by the gram panchayat. The failure of provision for employment within 15 days of the receipt of a job application will result in the payment of unemployment allowance to the job seekers. Employment is to be provided within 5 km of an applicant’s residence Employment under MGNREGA is a legal entitlement Sale of toxic crackers Part of: Prelims and GS II - Health and GS-III - Pollution Context The Supreme Court on Friday said Chief Secretaries and top administrative and police officials will be held personally liable if banned varieties of firecrackers are found to be used in any of the States. Key takeaways  SC said that Nobody can be permitted to play with the life of others, more particularly that of senior citizens and children. Only those firecrackers are banned which are found to be injurious to health and affecting the health of citizens. Any lapse on the part of the State Governments/ State Agencies and Union Territories shall be viewed very seriously. If it is found that any banned firecrackers are manufactured, sold and used in any particular area, the Chief Secretary of the State(s), the Secretary (Home) of the State(s) and the Commissioner of Police of the area, District Superintendent of Police of the area and the SHO/police officer in-charge of the police station shall be held personally liable. The court had allowed the use of ‘green’ or environment-friendly crackers made without toxic ingredients. Do you know? Firecrackers use fuel and oxidisers to produce a combustion reaction, and the resulting explosion spreads the material in a superheated state. The metal salts in the explosive mix get ‘excited’ and emit light. Many studies show, the burning of firecrackers is an unusual and peak source of pollution, made up of particles and gases. Pollution from firecrackers affects the health of people and animals, and aggravates the already poor ambient air quality in Indian cities.  This has resulted in court cases calling for a total ban on firecrackers, and court finally deciding to restrict the type of chemicals used as well as their volume. UIDAI seeks indemnity from Data Bill Part of: Prelims and GS II - Governance Context The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has asked for exemption from the Personal Data Protection (PDP) Law. In an interaction with the Joint Parliamentary Committee on Data Protection Bill 2019, UIDAI functionaries said the authority is already being governed by the Aadhaar Act and there cannot be duplicity of laws. About Personal Data Protection (PDP) Law The law is a comprehensive piece of legislation that seeks to give individuals greater control over how their personal data is collected, stored and used.  The Bill also establishes a Data Protection Authority for the same. Genesis of the Bill  The genesis of this Bill lies in the report prepared by a Committee of Experts headed by Justice B.N. Srikrishna. The committee was constituted by the government in the course of hearings before the Supreme Court in the right to privacy case (Justice K.S. Puttaswamy v. Union of India). Contentious section 35 Section 35, which invokes “sovereignty and integrity of India,” “public order”, “friendly relations with foreign states” and “security of the state” to give powers to the Central government to suspend all or any of the provisions of this Act for government agencies. About UIDAI UIDAI was created with the objective to issue Unique Identification numbers (UID), named as “Aadhaar”, to all residents of India that is: robust enough to eliminate duplicate and fake identities can be verified and authenticated in an easy, cost-effective way. It is a statutory authority established under the provisions of the Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016. Under the Aadhaar Act 2016, UIDAI is responsible for Aadhaar enrolment and authentication Developing system for issuing Aadhaar numbers  Perform authentication  To ensure the security of identity information  Ministry: Electronics & IT ministry. Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) drive launched Part of: Prelims and GS II - Health  Context Union Health Minister launched a nationwide expansion of Pneumococcal 13-valent Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) as a part of ‘Azadi ka Amrit Mahotsav’. It was for the first time in the country that PCV would be available for universal use.  Pneumonia was a leading cause of death among children under five, globally and in India. About Pneumonia  A variety of organisms, including bacteria, viruses and fungi, can cause pneumonia. Pneumonia caused by pneumococcus is the most common cause of severe pneumonia in children.  Around 16% of deaths in children occur due to pneumonia in India.  The nationwide roll-out of PCV will reduce child mortality by around 60% symptoms of pneumonia: Chest pain when you breathe or cough, changes in mental awareness, Cough, which may produce phlegm, Fatigue, Fever, chills, etc. Treatments include antibiotics, antivirals and anti fungal medications. Healthy diet, hygiene, vaccinations are some of the ways to prevent pneumonia. Data Disclosure Framework Part of: Prelims and GS-II – health and GS-III – Linkage of organised crime with Terrorism  Context The UN Office on Drugs and Crime and the Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate have launched Data Disclosure Framework. It is a tool that outlines the practices developed for responding to data requests from foreign criminal justice authorities for counter-terrorism investigations. About United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime It was established in 1997 and was named as a United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in 2002. It acts as the Office for Drug Control and Crime Prevention by combining the United Nations International Drug Control Program (UNDCP) and the Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Division of the United Nations Office at Vienna. (News from PIB) Mission Samudrayan It is India’s First and Unique Manned Ocean Mission India joins the elite club of nations such as USA, Russia, Japan, France and China to have such underwater vehicles for carrying out subsea activities Will help in carrying out deep ocean exploration of the non-living resources such as polymetallic manganese nodules, gas hydrates, hydro-thermal sulphides and cobalt crusts, located at a depth between 1000 and 5500 meters The underwater vehicles are essential for carrying out subsea activities such as high resolution bathymetry, biodiversity assessment, geo-scientific observation, search activities, salvage operation and engineering support. 15th India-Israel Joint Working Group Part of: Prelims and Mains GS-II: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. Context: India-Israel Joint Working Group (JWG) on Bilateral Defence Cooperation has agreed to form a Task Force to formulate a comprehensive Ten-Year Roadmap to identify new areas of cooperation.  Reviewed the progress made in Military to Military engagements including exercises and industry cooperation.  Appraised on the progress made by the Sub Working Groups (SWG) on Defence Procurement & Production and Research & Development.  It was also decided to form a SWG on Defence Industry Cooperation - would enable efficient utilisation of bilateral resources, effective flow of technologies and sharing industrial capabilities About India-Israel Joint Working Group (JWG): The JWG is the apex body between the Ministry of Defence of India and Israel’s Ministry of Defence to comprehensively review and guide all aspects of Bilateral Defence Cooperation.  News Source: PIB (Mains Focus) INTERNATIONAL/ SECURITY GS-2: India and its neighborhood- relations.  Myanmar Crisis Context: Recently, ASEAN excluded Myanmar’s military junta from its annual summit held on October 26-28. It is a major setback for the Generals’ attempts to gain regional legitimacy for their regime. What is happening in Myanmar? Ever since it seized power by toppling the democratic government of Aung San Suu Kyi in February, the Military junta has unleashed a reign of terror claiming an estimated 1,000 lives. Ms. Suu Kyi, who had been the State Councillor for five years from 2015 heading the quasi-democratic government, has been in detention since the coup. She is facing various charges, including violating the country's official secrets act, possessing illegal walkie-talkies and publishing information that may "cause fear or alarm". Months after the seizure of power, the Military junta, led by Gen. Min Aung Hlaing, is still struggling to restore order  If in the past the National League for Democracy (NLD), Ms. Suu Kyi’s party, had upheld non-violence even in the face of repression, this time, NLD leaders have called for a “revolution”. In cities, protests slid into armed fighting between pro-democracy protesters and security personnel, while in the jungles, anti-junta groups joined hands with rebels for military training.  The situation has become so grave that the UN Special Envoy warned this month that Myanmar had descended into a civil war. Most recent reports suggest that the junta has been systematically torturing political prisoners. Regime violence, political crises and strikes and counter-attacks by protesters have all pushed Myanmar to the brink of collapse.  According to the UN, some three million people are in need of life-saving assistance because of “conflict, food insecurity, natural disasters and COVID-19”.  What role is ASEAN playing in this crisis situation? One of the regional groupings with some leverage over the Myanmar’s Military junta is ASEAN.  In April, Gen. Min Aung Hlaing was invited to Jakarta for emergency talks with ASEAN members. The bloc asked him to immediately end violence and start the reconciliation process  ASEAN requested Myanmar Military Junta to allow a regional special envoy to meet with all stakeholders, including Ms. Suu Kyi.  A special envoy was appointed as part of the ASEAN plan, but he was not allowed to meet Ms. Suu Kyi. Recent decision of ASEAN to not admit Myanmar Junta during its summit is a reminder that continuing violence could cause regional isolation of the regime, which could worsen the crisis.  Conclusion Violence might allow Myanmar Military to hold on to power for now, but that is not sustainable. The international community should continue to put pressure on the junta and urgently start a reconciliation process. Connecting the dots: Myanmar Coup POLITY/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Elections Political Parties Registration in India Context: Former Punjab chief minister Captain Amarinder Singh announced that he will be forming his own political party in Punjab which will be registered with the Election commission. What is the procedure for registering political parties? According to the Election Commission, any party seeking registration has to submit an application to the Commission within a period of 30 days following the date of its formation Article 324 of the Indian Constitution and Section 29A of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 has conferred power to the Election Commission to prescribe guidelines for registration of parties. The applicant has to publish a proposed party name in two national daily newspapers and two local daily newspapers. The notice for publication is also displayed on the website of the Election Commission.  To register a political party, an application for registration has to be sent by registered post or presented personally to the Secretary to the Election Commission within 30 days following the date of formation of the party in the format prescribed.  The application must be accompanied by a demand draft for Rs.10,000. It also needs to include a printed copy of the memorandum, rules and regulations or constitution of the Party. It should contain provisions regarding organizational elections at different levels and the periodicity of such elections and terms of office of the office-bearers of the party. It also needs to have the latest electoral rolls in respect of at least 100 members of the party to show that they are registered electors.  The application would also need an affidavit duty signed by the President or General Secretary of the party and sworn before a First Class Magistrate/Oath Commissioner)/ Notary Public.  Individual affidavits from at least 100 members of the party would also be needed to ensure that they are not a member of any other political party registered with the Commission. Why registering with the EC is important? To be clear, it is not mandatory to register with the Election Commission but registering as a political party with the EC has its advantage in terms of intending to avail itself of the provisions of the Representation of the People Act, 1951, (relating to registration of political parties). The candidates of registered political party will get preference in the matter of allotment of free symbols vis-à-vis purely independent candidates. These registered political parties can get recognition as a ‘state party’ or a ‘national party’ subject to the fulfilment of the conditions prescribed in the Election Symbols (Reservation and Allotment) Order, 1968. How EC recognises a political party as a state or national party? Several conditions are followed by the Election Commission to recognise the parties as a state or national party. State Party – The registered party has to satisfy any of the 5 conditions. Secure at least 6% of the valid vote & win at least 2 seats in a State Assembly General Election Secure at least 6% of the valid vote & win at least 1 seats in a Lok Sabha General Election Win at least 3% of the seats or at least 3 seats , whichever is more, in a State assembly General Election Win at least 1 out of every 25 seats from a state in a Lok Sabha General Election Secure at least 8% of the total valid vote in a State Assembly or a Lok Sabha General Election There are over 60 regional parties and more than 2,000 registered but unrecognised parties in the country. National Party - The registered party has to satisfy any of the 3 conditions. Secure at least 6% of the valid vote in an Assembly or a Lok Sabha General Election in any four or more states and win at least 4 seats in a Lok Sabha General Election from any State or States Win at least 2% of the total Lok Sabha seats in a Lok Sabha General Election and these seats have to be won from at least 3 states The party is recognized as a State Party in at least four states. As on 2019, India had seven national parties (All India Trinamool Congress, Bahujan Samaj Party, Bharatiya Janata Party, Communist Party of India, Communist Party of India (Marxist), Indian National Congress and Nationalist Congress Party)  These conditions have to be fulfilled by the parties before every Lok Sabha and Assembly elections to make sure they don’t lose their status. What are the perks of recognition as a state or national party? A party recognized as a state party gets a reserved symbol within the state wheareas for a national party, the reserved symbol can be used across the country by its contesting candidates. Such parties need only one proposer for filing the nomination. They are entitled to broadcast/telecast facilities over Doordarshan during the general elections. They are also entitled for two sets of electoral rolls free of cost. There are also other advantages to the recognized parties like subsidized land for party offices etc. Connecting the dots: Challenges by Election Commission Block Chain Technology and Voting HEALTH/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Human Resources GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Health Insurance for India’s Missing Middle In News: NITI Aayog recently released a comprehensive report titled Health Insurance for India’s Missing Middle, which brings out the gaps in the health insurance coverage across the Indian population and offers solutions to address the situation. Key highlights from the Report: Low Public Expenditure Low government expenditure on health has constrained the capacity and quality of healthcare services in the public sector.  It diverts the majority of individuals—about two-thirds—to seek treatment in the costlier private sector. However, low financial protection leads to high out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE).  Missing Middle India’s population is vulnerable to catastrophic spending, and impoverishment from expensive trips to hospitals and other health facilities.  Around 20% of the population is covered through social health insurance, and private voluntary health insurance primarily designed for high-income groups.  The remaining 30% of the population, devoid of health insurance, is termed as the “missing middle”. The missing middle contains multiple groups across all expenditure quintiles and is spread across both urban and rural areas. The 30% of the population, or 400 million individuals—called the missing middle in this report—are devoid of any financial protection for health. Low Insurance Penetration Significant challenges will need to be overcome to increase the penetration of health insurance. The government and the private sector will need to come together in this endeavor. Private sector ingenuity and efficiency is required to reach the missing middle and offer compelling products.  The government has an important role to play in increasing consumer awareness and confidence, modifying regulation for standardized product and consumer protection, and potentially offering a platform to improve operational efficiency. The Ayushman Bharat - Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana—a flagship scheme towards Universal Health Coverage, and State Government extension schemes—provides comprehensive hospitalization cover to the bottom 50% of the population. Way Ahead: There is a need for designing a low-cost comprehensive health insurance product for the missing middle. The government can partially finance or provide health insurance. The government can expand Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) coverage to the poorest segments of the missing middle population, and leverage the scheme’s infrastructure to offer a voluntary contributory enrolment. The government can provide its data and infrastructure as a public good to reduce operational and distribution costs of insurers. For example, it can share government data (after taking consent) which aids identification and outreach to customers. It can also offer PMJAY’s IT platform and network to reduce operational costs.  A combination of implementation pathways—starting with commercial insurers and progressing to leveraging government risk-pooling schemes for voluntary insurance—phased in at different times, will ensure coverage for the missing middle population. The initial thrust and focus should be on expanding private voluntary contributory insurance through commercial insurers. Prepayment through health insurance emerges as an important tool for risk-pooling and safeguarding against catastrophic expenditure from health shocks. Prepaid pooled funds can also improve the efficiency of healthcare provision. In the medium term, once the supply-side and utilization of PMJAY and ESIC is strengthened, their infrastructure can be leveraged to allow voluntary contributions to a PMJAY-plus product offered by NHA, or to ESIC’s existing medical benefits.  The participation of NHA and ESIC will increase competition in the contributory voluntary insurance market, reducing premiums, and improving quality of care provided. In the long-term, once the low-cost, voluntary contributory health insurance market is developed, expansion of PMJAY to the remaining uncovered, poorer segments of the missing middle can be considered. Connecting the dots: PM Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission  Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission Ayushman Bharat PMJAY (ORF: Experts Speak) Oct 27: Liberalisation of private schools is necessary for all Indian children to be educated - https://www.orfonline.org/expert-speak/liberalisation-of-private-schools/  TOPIC: GS-II: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education, Human Resources. Liberalisation of Private Schools Context: India’s development trajectory is critically linked to the investments in social infrastructure, thus, liberalisation of private education will allow higher investments in human capital and inclusive growth. Issues: Nearly 12 crore of the 25 crore Indian children study in private schools. Of these 12 crore children, 70 percent of the students study in private schools that charge less than INR 1,000 per month.  Yet, the narrative on India’s private schools is centered around a few elite schools instead of the low budget schools where most private school students actually study. For all Indian children to be well educated in a way that they are prepared for 21st century jobs and challenges, not only do children need to have great foundational learning but they also need to learn skills that will help them succeed. However, learning outcomes in budget private schools are only slightly better than those in government schools. The National Education Policy 2020  Doesn’t address the weak state capacity to deliver quality education in public schools, and it doesn’t liberate private schools from the philanthropic mandate.  The policy recognises the “severe learning crisis” in public schools but fails to address the accountability issue that’s at the centre of the severe learning crisis in public and budget private schools. For private schools, the policy does recommend that the norms to regulate private schools should change from input-based ones to outcome-based ones. However, the policy fails to recognise that this alone will not be enough to allow low-cost schools to deliver high-quality 21st-century education to 8.4 cr children. However, irrespective of where these students study, learning outcomes that were poor to begin with, have fallen rapidly due to the pandemic. Also, there is very little evidence that either public schools or lowbudget private schools, under the current regulatory setup, have the capability to deliver high-quality education at the scale that India needs. The Case being - The ideological imperative that being a noble cause, education must remain not-for-profit is especially bewildering when compared to the evergreen coaching industry and the more recent EdTech sector. The huge influx of capital and people that’s seen in these two sectors is a clear indication of the huge latent demand for quality education in schools as well. Liberalisation of India’s private schools  It has to include both a rationalisation of the regulations as well as the removal of the philanthropic mandate.  The plethora of regulations currently imposed by state and the centre need to be rationalised into a regulatory framework that focuses mainly on learning outcomes and essential safety norms rather than inputs such as infrastructure requirements, teacher qualifications, and fee caps.  Additionally, schools can be required to publish information regarding other important matters including admission process, fees structure, teacher quality without being required to meet norms which impose prohibitory costs on school owners.  To ensure that parents are well aware of a school’s performance, standardised census assessments of learning outcomes should be published for all schools, both private and public.  As the NEP proposes, an independent regulator separate from state bodies that manage public schools should be set up at each state level to ensure compliance to the limited regulation to act as an ombudsman. Removing the philanthropic mandate means allowing schools to operate for profit with autonomy on all matters. Currently state and central boards of education require schools to be non-profit entities such as a Trust, Society, or Section 25 Company to affiliate with them. This requirement should be removed, allowing schools to make a choice.  Schools run by philanthropic organisations can continue to operate with their current legal status. However, schools wanting to move to a profit status may do so by declaring their intent. One major objection against this will be that this will allow schools to raise their fees indiscriminately. While in the long run, competition is the only force that can keep prices genuinely low while keeping the quality high, in the short term, schools may not charge more than say 10-12 percent increment—which most fee regulation acts anyway allow for—to any existing parent. Schools can, however, charge any fees to new parents by declaring the fees for as long as the student can be in school (for the next 12-15 years). India already spends an average of INR 30,000 per annum per student in public schools where accountability is poor in general. If this sum, or a significant part of it, were to be made available to parents directly through education vouchers or direct benefit transfers, it would spur a huge supplyside response by spurring huge investment into schools of all kinds. Conclusion The 21st century requires not just literacy but much higher-quality education and higher-order skills than being able to read, write, or add alone.  India can’t afford to make incremental safe changes and expect radically different outcomes. Radical changes are necessary.  The only realistic way that all Indian students can get education that actually prepares them for the 21st century is to liberalise India’s private schools and fund students directly. Must Read: Japanese education spells holistic development  (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1 Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) comes under which of the following Ministry/agencies? Ministry of rural development  Ministry of Electronics and IT NITI Aayog DRDO  Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) scheme: The failure of provision for employment within 15 days of the receipt of a job application will result in the payment of unemployment allowance to the job seekers. Employment is to be provided within 5 km of an applicant’s residence Employment under MGNREGA is a legal entitlement Which of the above is or are correct?  1 and 2 only  2 only  2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.3 Pneumonia is caused by Which of the following?  Bacteria Virus Fungus All of the above ANSWERS FOR 29th Oct 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 B 2 B 3 C Must Read On Dual Character of India’s Federalism: Deccan Herald On India–Russia Cooperation in the Arctic: IDSA

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 30th October 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

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[PRELIMS RESULT] UPSC/IAS Civil Services Examination, Prelims 2021 Result Declared!

Hello All, The result of Prelims 2021, UPSC/IAS Civil Services Examination has been announced. To Download the Civil Services (Preliminary) Result Sheet/PDF – CLICK HERE To Download the Forest Services (Preliminary) Result Sheet/PDF – CLICK HERE Wish You Good Luck IASbaba   You can contact us, for any kind of support with respect to CSE preparation EMAIL ID - support@iasbaba.com CONTACT NO - 9169191888

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 29th October 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) GST Compensation Part of: Prelims and GS III - Cybersecurity  Context The Ministry of Finance has released ₹44,000 crore to the States and UTs with Legislature under the back-to-back loan facility in lieu of GST Compensation. Key takeaways  After taking into account earlier release of ₹1,15,000 crore, total amount released in the current financial year as back-to-back loan in-lieu of GST compensation is ₹1,59,000 crore. This release is in addition to normal GST compensation being released every 2 months out of actual cess collection. Background  Subsequent to the 43rd GST Council Meeting held on 28th May 2021, it was decided that the Central Government would borrow ₹1.59 lakh crore and release it to States and UTs with Legislature on a back-to-back basis to meet the resource gap due to the short release of Compensation. About GST Compensation Before GST, States had the power to levy some indirect taxes on economic activity. Therefore, after GST regime was introduced (in 2017), the Centre promised guaranteed compensation to the States for the first five years, for the revenues they lost after the shift from the earlier system.  The compensation is calculated at a growth rate of 14% keeping 2015-16 as the base year and by levying a Compensation Cess on Sin and luxury goods. China to build military base in Tajikistan Part of: Prelims and GS II - International Relations  Context China will take full control of a military base in Tajikistan near the Afghan border that it has been quietly operating and will also build a new base for the Tajik Government. Key takeaways  Tajikistan granted approval for the construction of a new base, following an agreement between Tajikistan and China.  The agreement was signed by the China’s Public Security Ministry, and not the Chinese military which suggests a focus on counterterrorism amid rising concerns over instability in neighbouring Afghanistan.  The new base would be owned by Tajikistan’s Rapid Reaction Group and financed by China for a cost of $10 million.  It will be located in the eastern Gorno-Badakhshan autonomous province near the Pamir mountains, and Chinese troops will not be stationed there. Tajikistan Government has also agreed to transfer full control a former Soviet base near the China-Tajikistan-Afghanistan tri-junction and the Wakhan Corridor, where China shares a less than 100 km border with Afghanistan. The base, once full control has been transferred, will become only the second known overseas Chinese security facility, after Djibouti near the Horn of Africa . Do you know? Russia and India are among countries that already have a military presence in bases in Tajikistan.  China submits new climate plan to UN Part of: Prelims and GS III - Cliamte change Context China, by far the world’s largest polluter, has renewed its emissions cutting plan with a promise to peak carbon pollution before 2030. Key takeaways  China’s new submission to the UN also confirmed its goal to achieve carbon neutrality before 2060 and slash its emissions intensity by more than 65%.  China is responsible for more than a quarter of all man-made emissions. It had previously promised, under a process set in motion by the 2015 Paris climate deal, to reach net-zero by 2060. Under the Paris climate deal, nations are required to submit renewed emissions-cutting pledges — known as Nationally Determined Contributions, or NDCs — every five years. China had been reluctant in renewing its plans to curb emissions, and it was hoped its new submission could build momentum ahead of the delayed COP26 summit in Glasgow, which begins on Sunday. China’s renewed Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) According to its renewed NDC, it will increase its share of non-fossil fuels in primary energy consumption to 25%, up from the 20% previously pledged.  It also plans to increase its forest stock by six billion cubic metres compared with 2005 levels. Bring its total installed capacity of wind and solar power to over 1.2 billion kilowatts by 2030.  Amendments to the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969 Part of: Prelims and GS II - Government policies and related issues Context The Centre has proposed amendments to the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969 that will enable it to “maintain the database of registered birth and deaths at the national level”. As of now, the registration of births and deaths is done by the local registrar appointed by States. Key takeaways  The database may be used to update the Population Register and the electoral register, and Aadhaar, ration card, passport and driving licence databases. Proposed amendments by the Centre It is proposed that the Chief Registrar (appointed by the States) would maintain a unified database at the State level and integrate it with the data at the “national level,” maintained by the Registrar General of India (RGI). The amendments will imply that the Centre will be a parallel repository of data. “Special Sub-Registrars” shall be appointed, in the event of disaster, with any or all of his powers and duties for on the spot registration of deaths and issuance of extract thereof, as may be prescribed.” Converting CO2 to Methane Part of: Prelims and GS III - Environment Context Recently, Indian Scientists have designed a photochemical method (Photocatalyst) to convert Carbon Dioxide (CO2) to Methane (CH4). A photochemical method is a chemical reaction initiated by the absorption of energy in the form of light. Key Points A polymer has been designed to absorb visible light and catalyse the reaction which reduces CO2.  Most catalysts contain toxic and expensive metal counterparts. Therefore, scientists designed a metal-free porous organic polymer to overcome this drawback. The method uses solar light as a renewable source of energy. Significance: Methane can be one of the value-added products with significant uses as the cleanest burning fossil fuel and can directly be used in fuel cells as a hydrogen carrier. It is also the main component of natural gas and has the potential to replace coal for electricity generation and furnishing flexible supply to reinforce intermittent renewable generators. What is Methane? Methane is gas that is found in small quantities in Earth's atmosphere. It is the simplest hydrocarbon, consisting of one carbon atom and four hydrogen atoms (CH4). Methane is a powerful greenhouse gas. It is flammable, and is used as a fuel worldwide. Methane is produced by the breakdown or decay of organic material and can be introduced into the atmosphere by either natural processes (decay of plant material in wetlands, the seepage of gas from underground deposits or the digestion of food by cattle) or human activities (oil and gas production, rice farming or waste management). Methane is called marsh gas because it is found at the surface of marshy places (News from PIB) 18th India-ASEAN Summit Part of: Prelims and Mains GS-II: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. Context: Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi participated in the 18th India-ASEAN Summit at the invitation of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei, the current Chair of ASEAN. India – Underlined the centrality of ASEAN in India's Act East Policy and in India's Vision for the wider Indo-Pacific Vision.  On COVID-19, highlighted India’s efforts in the fight against the pandemic in the region and also reiterated support for ASEAN’s initiatives in this regard. India has contributed medical supplies worth USD 200,000 to ASEAN’s humanitarian initiative for Myanmar and USD 1 million for ASEAN’s Covid-19 Response Fund. To further strengthen India-ASEAN cultural connectivity: India will support establishing the ASEAN Cultural Heritage List.  On trade and investment, underlined the importance of diversification and resilience of supply chains for post-COVID economic recovery and in this regard, the need to revamp the India-ASEAN FTA. India and ASEAN Highlighting the milestone of 30th anniversary of India-ASEAN Partnership, the leaders announced the Year 2022 as India-ASEAN Friendship Year. Building upon the synergies between the ASEAN Outlook for the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), PM and ASEAN leaders welcomed the adoption of the India-ASEAN Joint Statement on cooperation for peace, stability and prosperity in the region. Exchanged views on enhancing India-ASEAN connectivity in broadest terms including physical, digital and people to people.  Appreciated India’s role as a trusted partner in the region especially during the current Covid-19 Pandemic with its supply of vaccine.  Welcomed India’s support to ASEAN centrality in the Indo-Pacific and looked forward to greater India-ASEAN cooperation in the region through the Joint Statement. Other discussion points Covered regional and international issues of common interest and concern, including South China Sea and terrorism.  Noted the importance of promoting a rules-based order in the region including through upholding adherence to international law, especially the UNCLOS.  Affirmed the importance of maintaining and promoting peace, stability, safety and security in the South China Sea, and ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight. News Source: PIB India, ADB sign $251 million loan Part of: Prelims and Mains GS-I: Urbanisation In News: The Government of India and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $251 million loan for climate-resilient, integrated urban flood protection and management in the Chennai-Kosasthalaiyar basin to strengthen resilience of Chennai city to floods. Will help reduce the vulnerability of Chennai–Kosasthalaiyar basin residents to frequent floods, which have in recent years destroyed property and livelihoods Building disaster-resilient infrastructure would help communities cope with intensifying rainfall, a higher sea level rise, and a storm surge caused by cyclones and protect lives, economy and the environment. The innovative designs and interventions for climate-resilient flood management promoted by the project along with integrated urban planning and enhanced municipal resource mobilization can be widely replicated for other Indian cities that are vulnerable to climate and disaster risks. Aims to enhance stakeholders’ involvement, including proactive participation of women, in flood preparedness by raising community knowledge and awareness of flood risks and impacts and its relationship with solid waste management, sewerage, and protection of water bodies. News Source: PIB (Mains Focus) POLITY / GOVERNANCE GS-2: Elections GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Freebie Culture Context: The line between welfarism and populism has blurred. Welfare initiatives include a targeted Public Distribution System, providing social security for labourers, quality education, fair employment, affordable healthcare, decent housing, and protection from exploitation and violence.  Freebies, on the other hand, are provided to attract voters to cast their vote in a particular election. They create limited private benefit for the receiver and do not contribute towards strengthening public goods/facilities. How did the freebie culture originate? The culture of freebies in Tamil Nadu was started during the 1967 Assembly elections. The then DMK chief C.N. Annadurai offered three measures of rice for ₹1.  The practice of providing freebies was followed by subsequent Chief Ministers who promised free TV sets, free laptops to students, free rides for women in buses, free gas cylinders and stoves, a goat and a cow for poor farmers, and so on.  Political leaders have justified freebies citing social justice as it aids those at the bottom of the pyramid. What are the criticisms of Freebie Culture? Creates Private Benefits: Freebies violate the constitutional mandate of extending benefits for public purpose and instead create private benefits. The main beneficiaries of the freebies provided by government were the ruling party’s core supporters and swing voters who could be influenced easily.  Depoliticises Poor: Freebies will not only depoliticise the poor and marginalised communities but also indirectly deny them their due share of state resources.  Erases Rational Thinking: Freebie encourage personality cults in a democratic polity. Populism encourages mediocre political critics and erases critical and rational thinking, which are important to raise questions to people in power. Patron-Client Syndrome: Unsolicited freebies cultivate a patron-client syndrome. Providing freebies is to treat people like subjects, whereas citizens are entitled to constitutional guarantees. Clientelism is a political or social system based on the relation of client to patron with the client giving political support to a patron (as in the form of votes) in exchange for some special privilege or benefit (freebies). Against Welfare Politics: Welfare initiatives are an embodiment of civil rights, whereas unsolicited freebies show benevolence at best and apathy at worst towards the poor by the ruling parties. Doesn’t enhance Productivity: It was observed that distributing free laptops does not serve the purpose of increasing the quality of education. Also, free electricity, free water, farm loan waivers, etc. have not contributed to increased productivity. Fiscal Burden: Freebies imposes burden on the state's financial status contributing to huge fiscal debt. Vulnerable to Corruption: Freebies culture paves way to corrupt practice because of the involvement of middle man. Not Sustainable in Long Run: The social, political and economic consequences of freebies are very short-lived in nature. Also, they cannot be provided free forever, at some point these goods have to be rationalised. What was the judicary’s view on the freebie culture? The Supreme Court gave a ruling in favour of offering of freebies stating that freebies are not corrupt practice as it is mentioned in election manifesto. In S. Subramaniam Balaji v. Govt. of Tamil Nadu (2013), the court said that “Although, promises in the election manifesto cannot be construed as ‘corrupt practice’ under Section 123 of Representation of People Act, the distribution of freebies influences the people shaking the root of free and fair elections.” In 2021, The Madras High Court expressed its strong displeasure over the way in which political parties were competing with each other to garner votes by offering freebies. Connecting the dots: Electoral Reforms Representation of People’s Act, 1951 SECURITY/ GOVERNANCE GS-3: Cyber Security and its challenges GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Pegasus Case Context: A batch of 12 petitions were filed in SC that sought an independent probe into the alleged illegal use of the Israeli NSO Group spyware Pegasus Recently, Supreme Court ordered a “thorough inquiry” into allegations of unauthorised surveillance using the Pegasus spyware. The inquiry will be conducted by a three-member technical committee comprising  Dr Naveen Kumar Chaudhary, Dean of National Forensic Sciences University in Gandhinagar;  Dr Prabaharan P, Professor at Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham in Kerala; and  Dr Ashwin Anil Gumaste of IIT Bombay. The functioning of the committee will be overseen by Justice R V Raveendran, a retired judge of the Supreme Court, who will be assisted by two other experts. Observations by Supreme Court The Court acknowledged that it is “a settled position of law that in matters pertaining to national security, the scope of judicial review is limited”. At the same time, SC also noted this does not mean that the State gets a free pass every time the spectre of ‘national security’ is raised.  SC observed that “The mere invocation of national security by the State does not render the Court a mute spectator”. In a democratic country governed by the rule of law, indiscriminate spying on individuals cannot be allowed except with sufficient statutory safeguards, by following the procedure established by law under the Constitution. SC said that surveillance and the knowledge that one is under the threat of being spied, might result in self-censorship. SC listed the compelling circumstances that made it to pass an order constituting an inquiry committee. Right to privacy and freedom of speech are alleged to be impacted, which needs to be examined. The entire citizenry is affected by such allegations due to the potential chilling effect. No clear stand taken by the Union of India regarding actions taken by it. Possibility that some foreign authority, agency or private entity is involved in placing citizens of this country under surveillance. Allegations that the Union or State Governments are party to the rights’ deprivations of the citizens. The terms of reference of the committee include: Whether the Pegasus suite of spyware was used on phones or other devices of the citizens of India to access stored data, eavesdrop on conversations, intercept information? The details of the victims and/or persons affected by such a spyware attack. Whether any Pegasus suite of spyware was acquired by Union of India, or any State Government, or any central or state agency for use against the citizens of India? If any governmental agency has used the Pegasus suite of spyware on the citizens of this country, under what law, rule, guideline, protocol or lawful procedure was such deployment made? Connecting the dots: India needs an updated Cybersecurity Strategy Pegasus Controversy  Surveillance Laws in India (Sansad: Perspective) Oct 27: East Asia Summit - https://youtu.be/nRC1dpdzhDg TOPIC: GS-II: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. East Asia Summit Context: At the 16th East Asia Summit, leaders discussed matters of regional and international interest and concern including Indo-Pacific, South China Sea, UNCLOS, terrorism, and the situation in Korean Peninsula and Myanmar.  India – Reaffirmed India’s focus on a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific and support for ASEAN’s centrality in the region. India remains committed to strengthening respect for shared values of multilateralism, rules-based international order, international law and sovereignty and territorial integrity of all nations. Spoke about ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign for post-pandemic recovery and in ensuring resilient global value chains.  Emphasised on establishment of a better balance between economy and ecology and climate sustainable lifestyle. Reaffirmed “ASEAN centrality” in the Indo-Pacific and highlighted the synergies between ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific (AOIP) and India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI). Raised the idea of developing global standards on cyber security. EAS leaders adopted three statements on mental health, economic recovery through tourism and sustainable recovery, which have been co-sponsored by India. About East Asia Summit The East Asia Summit is the Indo-Pacific's premier forum for strategic dialogue at which all key partners meet to discuss political, security and economic challenges facing the Indo-Pacific. This forum has an important role to play in advancing closer regional cooperation.  The East Asia Summit (EAS) is a regional forum held annually by leaders of, initially, 16 countries in the East Asian, Southeast Asian, and South Asian regions, based on the ASEAN plus Six mechanism. There are 18 members including the ten ASEAN countries along with Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia and the United States.  In 2020 EAS members represented 54 per cent of the world's population and accounted for 62 per cent of global GDP worth an estimated US$52.3 trillion.  India participated, as a founding member, in the inaugural East Asia Summit held in Kuala Lumpur on 14 December 2005. Since then this forum has played a significant role in the strategic and geopolitical evolution of East Asia.  It is also an important platform for furthering practical cooperation in the Indo-Pacific by building upon the convergence between ASEAN Outlook on Indo-Pacific and Indo-Pacific Ocean’s Initiative.  Aim: To further the objectives of regional peace, security and prosperity; has evolved as a forum for strategic dialogue and cooperation on political, security and economic issues of common regional concern and plays an important role in the regional architecture. Six priority areas of regional cooperation within the framework of the EAS– Environment and Energy Education Finance Global Health Issues and Pandemic Diseases Natural Disaster Management ASEAN Connectivity (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1 Which One of the Following Is Not a Greenhouse Gas? Methane Hydrogen Nitrous oxide Ozone Q.2 Which of the following is incorrect regarding Wakhan corridor: It is a narrow strip of territory in Afghanistan. It separates Tajikistan from China The corridor was formed by an 1893 agreement between the British Empire (British India) and Afghanistan, creating the Durand Line. Select the correct code?  1 and 2 only  2 only  2 and 3 only 1, 2 and l3 Q.3 As Per provisions of Paris agreement the intended nationally determined contributions are to be reviewed every  15 years  10 years  5 years  3years  ANSWERS FOR 28th Oct 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 B 3 A Must Read On Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act of 1985: The Hindu On National Water Policy (NWP): Indian Express On Extra-Judicial Killings: The Leaflet

UPSC हिन्दी Quiz– 2021: IASbaba Daily Current Affairs Quiz 29th October 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 Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 29th October 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