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TLP Mains Answer Writing

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 1 Questions [31st August,2021] – Day 167

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 1 Questions [31st August,2021] – Day 167 TLP (Phase 1) just got over on 8th May (Saturday) and we are extremely thankful for your active participation to make this program a success. Well, though TLP (Phase 1) got over, ‘Picture abhi baaqi hai mere dost’. There is a surprise for you. Since prelims is bound to get delayed once again this year, its not wise to leave the writing practice just now. Hence, we are extending the TLP program  We will be posting 3 questions per day (Monday to Friday). The questions will be based on Current Affairs, so that you don’t have to invest your time separately on exclusively mains oriented topics. So, keep practicing and keep improving. To Know More about TLP  -> CLICK HERE For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Note: Click on Each Question (Link), it will open in a new tab and then Answer respective questions! 1. Panchayati Raj system in India requires second-generation reforms to secure grassroots development through democratic grassroots governance. Comment. (10 Marks) लोकतांत्रिक जमीनी शासन के माध्यम से जमीनी विकास को सुरक्षित करने के लिए भारत में पंचायती राज व्यवस्था को दूसरी पीढ़ी के सुधारों की आवश्यकता है। टिप्पणी करें। 2. Do you think lateral entry into the civil services would ensure better governance? Critically examine. (10 Marks) क्या आपको लगता है tकि सिविल सेवाओं में पार्श्व प्रवेश बेहतर शासन सुनिश्चित करेगा? समालोचनात्मक जांच करें। 3. There has been an impetus on ‘participative governance’ in recent times. What do you understand by this concept? Is governance in India truly participative? Give your views. (15 Mark) हाल के दिनों में ‘सहभागी शासन’ पर काफी जोर रहा है। इस अवधारणा से आप क्या समझते हैं? क्या भारत में शासन वास्तव में सहभागी है? अपने विचार दें। AWARE ( Answer Writing REdefined) Series - 7 Steps to Master Answer Writing Skills by Mohan Sir - CLICK HERE P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm every day. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each other's answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best :)

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 31st August 2021

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

TLP Mains Answer Writing

SYNOPSIS [27th August,2021] Day 165: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE SYNOPSIS [27th August,2021] Day 165: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. Critically evaluate the effectiveness of the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana as a poverty alleviation programme.    Approach  Introduce with the context of pandemic amid which the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana was introduced.In next part write what are the benefits of the scheme and what are its limitations .In conclusion make a critical statement and suggest some remedies. Introduction  COVID-19 pandemic forced all the economic activities to be shutdown amid the fear of its spread and mortality.This led to large scale migration of daily workers from cities towards their villages. These people neither had savings, nor access to welfare schemes or proper healthcare in the cities which led them to rush back to the villages.Thus to address the issue migrants government introduced ‘Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojna’ on 26, March,2020.This scheme has now been extended till November of year 2021 in view of second wave of COVID-19 and lagging economic recovery. Body About scheme  PMGKAY is a part of Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Package (PMGKP) to help the poor fight the battle against Covid-19. Its nodal Ministry is the Ministry of Finance. It was initially announced for a three month period (April, May and June 2020), covering 80 crore ration cardholders. Later it was extended till November 2020. However in April 2021, the government had announced its decision to restart the PMGKAY. The scheme aimed at providing each person who is covered under the National Food Security Act 2013 with an additional 5 kg grains (wheat or rice) for free, in addition to the 5 kg of subsidised food grain already provided through the Public Distribution System (PDS). The new version of the PMGKAY lacks one of its important components which was there in 2020 PMGKAY i:e free-of-cost 1 kg pulses per month to each household covered under the NFSA. Positive Impacts of PM Garib Kalyan Yojana in alleviating poverty: It was the first step by the government when pandemic affected India.The scheme reached its targeted population feeding almost 80Cr people.These were further the groups which are most marginalised including mostly migrants, tribals, widows. It has proven to be more of a safety net to migrant people who had job and livelihood losses.Thus they were able to follow lockdown rules effectively without the need to worry about daily food requirements. Further the government by increasing the already existing allocation ensured that a family of 5 can easily sustain as earlier allocation might would not have been sufficient for whole family. This has also ensured nutrition security to children of the migrant workers.Thus the indicators of hunger will not be hampered in long run. This will also lead to savings in people’s hand to spend on other essential services such as health and education. Challenges of PM Garib Kalyan Yojana The effectiveness of PM Garib Kalyan will be more in states with well-functioning PDS. That is, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Chhattisgarh and Odisha — but not Uttar Pradesh or Bihar.This will be counter productive as the main aim is to help the migrants which predominantly come from Uttarpradesh and Bihar.  The scheme has been affected by widespread corruption, leakages and failure to distribute grain to the intended recipients. Several of the states above have claimed that the ineffective distribution has been caused by the beneficiaries, especially migrant workers, not being available to receive their rations. Out of the 79.25 crore beneficiaries under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), only 55 crore have so far received their 5 kg. However, almost 90% of beneficiaries have received their regular subsidized grain for the month, raising questions over why the free grain has reached fewer beneficiaries. Many people were denied their share due to inability to access ration cards. Livelihood losses led to decline in aggregate demand and resulted into lowest ever consumption expenditure by the people owing to scarcity of cash. This in turn led to selling of the free grains obtained in the local markets for cash. Way Forward  There should be a all-encompassing database for migrant workers and their family. This should accurately capture the data on migration. The One Nation One Ration Card should be implemented in true spirit by all the states. Along with food security, there should be a sustainable income support through schemes like MGNREGA accompanied by free vaccines in nearest future. The leakages in PDS should be minimised through modernise PDS. To avoid leakages, there should be food-token system. Conclusion Pradhan Mantri GaribKalyan Yojna is a well intentioned scheme to help the vulnerable sectors in this difficult times.But as compared to other nations economic packages, the scheme falls short to alleviate people from poverty. Therefore the government should take more steps such as giving unemployment allowances, partial Universal basic income and free treatment of all people under Ayushman Bharat scheme.This will ensure a faster and equitable economic recovery. 2. How effective can be strategy of providing a universal basic income to the poor as a poverty alleviation measure in India? Critically evaluate while discussing its pros and cons.  Approach  Introduce UBI in the current context of Indian economy.Then write its positive and limitations in current Indian scenario.At last conclude with taking a balanced path of qualified UBI and other supporting measures. Introduction  The pandemic has caused unprecedented crises and disruptions around the world. It has inflicted the greatest pain on those who were already the most vulnerable, spurring hardship and unease among low-income families and micro-businesses. In the process, it uncovered existing inequities and created new ones.The crisis has once again brought to fore the idea of universal basic income (UBI)—periodic and unconditional cash payments to all citizens. The basic income idea has enjoyed a popular resurgence in recent years. Body Current context and the idea of universal basic income To deal with the economic inequality, unemployment and poverty created by the Covid-19 pandemic, many advocate Universal Basic Income (UBI) programme to be a solution. Read more on Coronavirus and its impact on the economy. In order to deal with the coronavirus pandemic, governments across the world have imposed measures like lockdown and social distancing. However, collateral damage has been caused by these measures to almost every sector of the economy, so much so that the International Monetary Fund- IMF held the current economic crisis could be the worst ever since the Great depression 1929. With almost 90% of India’s workforce in the informal sector without minimum wages or social security, micro-level circumstances in India are worse than anywhere else. Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, the country was struggling to provide job opportunities for millions of job aspirants who were entering the job market. Read in detail bout the Unemployment in India on the linked page. Regular payments through UBI can ensure the sustenance of the workers engaged in the informal sector, at least till the economy normalises. The National Democratic Alliance government has already unfolded a limited version of the UBI in the form of the Pradhanmantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana (PM-KISAN) which promises ₹6,000 per annum to farmers who own less than 2 hectares of land. Therefore, expanding it to other sectors is the question of the hour. Benefits of UBI Social Justice: UBI is firstly a test of an egalitarian society. Any society where all people do not earn income equally fails the test of justice. UBI propounds many of the basic values of a society that respects all individuals as equal. It promotes equality because it is anti-paternalistic, opens up the possibility of flexibility in labour markets. It promotes efficiency by increasing transparency in government transfers. Further information on Transparency in the Administration is available on the given link. Poverty Reduction: if the current financial system functions properly the UBI- Universal Basic Income may simply be the fastest way of poverty reduction. Know more about Poverty a social challenge on the given link. Agency: Our current welfare system, even when well-intentioned, inflicts an indignity upon the poor by assuming that they cannot take economic decisions relevant to their lives. An unconditional cash transfer treats them as agents, not subjects. UBI liberates citizens from paternalistic and clientele relationships with the state. By taking the individual and not the household as the unit of the beneficiary, UBI can also enhance agency, especially of women within households. Employment: UBI could open up new potentials for labour markets. It creates tractability by allowing individuals to have fractional or standardised engagements with the labour market without fear of losing benefits. They permit more non-exploitative negotiation since people will no longer be required to accept any working conditions, just so that they can survive. Administrative Efficiency: In India in particular, the case for UBI has been heightened because of the weakness of current welfare schemes that are riddled with misallocation, escapes and exclusion of the poor. When the trinity of JAM Jan-Dhan,-Aadhaar and Mobile is fully adopted the time would be apt for a mode of delivery that is administratively more efficient. Institutional credit: According to the National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) data from the 70th round, institutional credits account for less than 15% of the total borrowing by landless agricultural workers; The figure for marginal and small farmers is only 30%. These groups have to borrow from moneylenders and adhatiyas at exorbitant interest rates ranging from 24 to 60%. As a result, they do not stand to benefit much from the interest rate subsidy for the agriculture sector. Issues in implementation of UBI Lack of the political will because of the costs involved. The fiscal cost of a UBI pegged at Rs. 7,620, at 75% universality, was 4.9% of the GDP.The Economic Survey of India's (2016-17) model of UBI suggested providing Rs. 7,620 per annum to 75% of India's population.The income was based on Suresh Tendulkar's poverty line of 2011-12 inflation-indexed to 2016-17. A UBI on par with the numbers suggested by the Economic Survey could lead to targeted household incomes increasing by almost Rs. 40,000 per annum, since the average Indian household size is approximately five. Difficulty in reducing some of the existing subsidies to balance the resultant deficit. There is no guarantee that the given cash will be spent on productive activities, health & education, etc. It may be spent on tobacco, alcohol, drugs, and other luxury goods etc. Free cash to the people will increase the rate of inflation in the economy. Workers can refuse to work as a labourer or demand higher wages which can increase the cost of production of agricultural goods.  Gender Disparity: Gender norms may regulate the sharing of UBI within the household. Men are likely to exercise control over UBI spending, which may not always be the case in other in-kind transfers.  Political economy of universality – idea for self-exclusion: opposition may arise from the provision of transferring to the rich individual as it might seem to trump the idea of equity and state welfare of the poor. Conclusion A qualified Universal basic income can be an answer to the limitations mentioned above.This will make people who are really vulnerable to sustain and progress.However UBI is not necessarily a silver bullet or a cure-all to end inequality. It is a potentially important tool that works best as a complement to broader poverty eradication programmes. It needs serious attention because we owe an obligation to humanity to end the appalling inequalities. 3. What is fortified rice? How can it be helpful in addressing ‘hidden hunger’?Discuss. Approach  Define what is hidden hunger in introduction and contextualise to Indian context.In next part mention what are positives of fortifying rice in India.Further write some apprehension related to fortification of food.In conclusion take a balanced view on the fortification and suggest a way ahead. Introduction  When body lacks micronutrients such as vitamins and minerals like Iron, Vitamin B 12, Folic Acid in diet, even if a person is eating enough food, it can lead to devastating effects– from mental impairment, poor health, low productivity and a poor quality of life.This lack of vitamins and nutrients is termed as ‘Hidden Hunger’.India has one of the worst body wasting and stunting status in children below 5 years as per Global nutrition survey.Therefore in this context food fortification especially of rice which is a staple diet of majority in India can have great impact on reducing hunger and malnutrition. Body What is fortified rice . Rice can be fortified by adding a micronutrient powder to the rice that adheres to the grains or spraying of the surface of ordinary rice grains with a vitamin and mineral mix to form a protective coating. Rice can also be extruded and shaped into partially precooked grain-like structures resembling rice grains, which can then be blended with natural polished rice. Rice kernels can be fortified with several micro-nutrients, such as iron, folic acid and other B-complex vitamins, vitamin A and zinc. These fortified kernels are then mixed with normal rice in a 1:100 ratio, and distributed for consumption. Benefits of Fortified rice Fortified staple foods will contain natural or near natural levels of micro-nutrients, which may not necessarily be the case with supplements.This is necessary as according to Food and Agricultural organisation more than 50 percent of India are either not on balanced diet or the diet is unaffordable.Therefore fortifying will help in this regard. It provides nutrition without any change in characteristics of food or course of our meals.This will not make people apprehensive of changing their dietary habits, further no further extra cost has to be incurred on supply and purchases. If consumed on a regular and frequent basis, fortified foods will maintain body stores of nutrients more efficiently and more effectively than will intermittent supplements.This will help India to achieve the targets of Zero hunger and also lead to India been able to effectively utilise its demographic dividend. The overall costs of fortification are extremely low; the price increase is approximately 1 to 2 per cent of the total food value.Therefore the overall project will not be affecting the fiscal deficit of the government. Some issues with fortifications of rice Fortification and enrichment upsets nature’s packaging. Our body does not absorb individual nutrients added to processed foods as efficiently compared to nutrients naturally occurring. Supplements added to foods are less bioavailable. Bioavailability refers to the proportion of a nutrient your body is able to absorb and use. Fortified foods and supplements can pose specific risks for people who are taking prescription medications, including decreased absorption of other micro-nutrients, treatment failure, and increased mortality risk. However these risks have not found to be to profound as per the ministry of health and family welfare which had given a go ahead to introduce the fortified rice in the mid day meal scheme. Conclusion Hidden hunger is a threat to individual development, burden on families and may affect the human capital of a nation.Therefore to tackle this menace there is a need to supply the essential nutrients in a faster and adequate quantity especially in India were the hunger indicators are worst.Further in long run the scientists should be incentivised to find solutions to the present limitations of food fortification and simultaneously an awareness campaign should be conducted to persuade people to adopt an balanced diet in the long run. TLP Synopsis Day 165 PDF

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 30th August 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II- Government Schemes In News: The Scheme completes seven years of successful implementation Background Pradhan Mantri Jan-Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) is National Mission for Financial Inclusion to ensure access to financial services, namely, Banking/ Savings & Deposit Accounts, Remittance, Credit, Insurance, Pension in an affordable manner. Objectives: Ensure access of financial products & services at an affordable cost Use of technology to lower cost & widen reach Basic tenets of the scheme Banking the unbanked - Opening of basic savings bank deposit (BSBD) account with minimal paperwork, relaxed KYC, e-KYC, account opening in camp mode, zero balance & zero charges Securing the unsecured - Issuance of Indigenous Debit cards for cash withdrawals & payments at merchant locations, with free accident insurance coverage of Rs. 2 lakh Funding the unfunded - Other financial products like micro-insurance, overdraft for consumption, micro-pension & micro-credit The scheme was launched based upon the following 6 pillars: Universal access to banking services – Branch and BC Basic savings bank accounts with overdraft facility of Rs. 10,000/- to every eligible adult Financial Literacy Program– Promoting savings, use of ATMs, getting ready for credit, availing insurance and pensions, using basic mobile phones for banking  Creation of Credit Guarantee Fund – To provide banks some guarantee against defaults Insurance – Accident cover up to Rs. 1,00,000 and life cover of   Rs. 30,000 on account opened between 15 Aug 2014 to 31 January 2015 Pension scheme for Unorganized sector Important approach adopted in PMJDY based on past experience: Accounts opened are online accounts in core banking system of banks, in place of earlier method of offline accounts opening with technology lock-in with the vendor Inter-operability through RuPay debit card or Aadhaar enabled Payment System (AePS) Fixed-point Business Correspondents Simplified KYC / e-KYC in place of cumbersome KYC formalities Extension of PMJDY with New features – The Government decided to extend the comprehensive PMJDY program beyond 28.8.2018 with some modifications Focus shift from ‘Every Household’ to Every Unbanked Adult’  RuPay Card Insurance - Free accidental insurance cover on RuPay cards increased from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 2 lakh for PMJDY accounts opened after 28.8.2018. Enhancement in overdraft facilities - OD limit doubled from Rs 5,000/- to Rs 10,000/-;  OD upto Rs 2,000/- (without conditions). Increase in upper age limit for OD from 60 to 65 years Impact of PMJDY More than 43.04 crore beneficiaries banked under PMJDY since inception, amounting to Rs. 146,231 crore PMJDY Accounts have grown three-fold from 14.72 Crore in Mar’15 to 43.04 Crore as on 18-08-2021 55% Jan-Dhan account holders are women and 67% Jan Dhan accounts are in rural and semi-urban areas Out of total 43.04 crore PMJDY accounts, 36.86 crore (86%) are operative Total RuPay cards issued to PMJDY accountholders: 31.23 Crore Under PM Garib Kalyan Yojana, a total of Rs. 30,945 crore have been credited in accounts of women PMJDY account holders during Covid lockdown About 5.1 crore PMJDY accountholders receive direct benefit transfer (DBT) from the Government under various schemes. Jallianwala Bagh Smarak Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-I- Modern History In News: Prime Minister Modi dedicated the renovated complex of Jallianwala Bagh Smarak to the nation. Elaborate heritage restoration works have been carried out in sync with the local architectural style of Punjab. The Shaheedi well has been repaired and restored with a redefined super structure About Jallianwala Bagh Massacre Jallianwala Bagh Massacre, also called Massacre of Amritsar was an incident on April 13, 1919, in which British troops fired on a large crowd of unarmed Indians in an open space known as the Jallianwala Bagh in Amritsar in Punjab. A large but peaceful crowd had gathered at the Jallianwala Bagh to protest against the arrest of pro-Indian independence leaders Dr. Saifuddin Kitchlu and Dr. Satya Pal.  Dr. Saifuddin Kitchlu and Dr. Satya Pal opposed the passing of Rowlat Act in early 1919, which essentially extended the repressive wartime measures.  In response to the public gathering at Bagh, the British Brigadier-General R. E. H. Dyer surrounded the Bagh with his soldiers. After blocking the exit with his troops, he ordered them to shoot at the crowd, continuing to fire even as protestors tried to flee. The Jallianwala Bagh could only be exited on one side, as its other three sides were enclosed by buildings. At least 1000 people were killed and over 1,200 other people were injured The ineffective inquiry by Disorders Inquiry Committee (also known as Hunters Commission) together with the initial praise for Dyer, fuelled great widespread anger against the British among the Indian populace, leading to the Non-cooperation movement of 1920–22. This incident shocked Rabindranath Tagore (the first Indian and Asian Nobel laureate) to such an extent that he renounced his knighthood. Britain never formally apologised for the massacre but expressed "regret" in 2019. BCG vaccine: 100 years and counting Part of: GS Prelims and GS-3: Science  Context: The centenary celebrations of the first use of BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guerin), the vaccine against tuberculosis (TB) in humans. About TB TB is caused by a bacterium called Mycobacterium tuberculosis, belonging to the Mycobacteriaceae family consisting of about 200 members.  In humans, TB most commonly affects the lungs (pulmonary TB), but it can also affect other organs (extra-pulmonary TB). Despite being avery ancient diseases (existed in Egypt in 3000BC), it has not been eradicated or controlled to a large extent. According to the WHO’s Global TB Report, 10 million people developed TB in 2019 with 1.4 million deaths. India accounts for 27% of these cases. About BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guerin) BCG was developed by two Frenchmen, Albert Calmette and Camille Guerin. They modified a strain of Mycobacterium bovis (that causes TB in cattle) till it lost its capacity to cause disease while retaining its property to stimulate the immune system. It was first used in humans in 1921. In addition to its primary use as a vaccine against TB, BCG also protects against respiratory and bacterial infections of the newborns, and other mycobacterial diseases like leprosy and Buruli’s ulcer.  In India, BCG was first introduced in a limited scale in 1948 and became a part of the National TB Control Programme in 1962. One intriguing fact about BCG is that it works well in some geographic locations and not so well in others. Generally, the farther a country is from the equator, the higher is the efficacy.  It has a high efficacy in the UK, Norway, Sweden and Denmark; and little or no efficacy in countries on or near the equator like India, Kenya and Malawi, where the burden of TB is higher. Currently, BCG is the only licensed vaccine available for the prevention of TB.  Over the last ten years 14 new vaccines have been developed for TB and are in clinical trials. Also Read Approaches to Vaccine making Nation’s first mRNA-based vaccine Indemnity and Vaccine Pricing Militancy in Assam’s Dima Hasao Part of: GS Prelims and GS-2: Governance Context: A suspected militant attack left five truckers dead in Assam’s Dima Hasao hill district. Intelligence inputs suggest that an outfit called the Dimasa National Liberation Army (DNLA) was behind the attack. What is the history of militancy in Dima Hasao? The hill districts of Assam — Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao (earlier North Cachar Hills) — have had a long history of insurgency by Karbi and Dimasa groups which peaked in the mid-1990s, and was rooted in a core demand of statehood. Both districts are now protected under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution, and allows for greater political autonomy and decentralised governance in certain tribal areas of the Northeast. They are run by the North Cachar Hills Autonomous Council and the Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council respectively. In Dima Hasao, the demand for statehood began in the 1960s, along with other tribal sections of undivided Assam. A demand for a full-fledged state, ‘Dimaraji’, gathered steam, and led to the start of militancy through formation of armed groups. Who are the Dimasas? The Dimasas (or Dimasa-Kacharis) are the earliest known rulers and settlers of Assam, and now live in Dima Hasao, Karbi Anglong, Cachar, Hojai and Nagaon districts of central and southern Assam, as well as parts of Nagaland. Prior to Ahom rule, the Dimasa kings — believed to be the descendants of the rulers of the ancient Kamarupa kingdom — ruled large parts of Assam along the south bank of the Brahmaputra between the 13th and 16th centuries.  Their earliest historically known capital was Dimapur (now in Nagaland), and later Maibang in North Cachar Hills. Related Articles Assam Mizoram Border Dispute Naga Issue Bodo Issue (News from PIB) POSHAN Maah Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II- Health & Governance In News:   Thematic POSHAN Maah will be Celebrated Across the Nation Throughout the Month of September as Part of Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav. About POSHAN (Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition) Abhiyaan: Launched by Ministry of Women & Child Development (MoW&CD) on the occasion of International Women’s Day on 8 March, 2018 from Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan, POSHAN Abhiyaan is Government of India’s flagship programmed to improve nutritional outcomes for children, adolescent Girls, pregnant women and lactating mothers.  The Abhiyaan targets to reduce  Stunting by 2% per annum Undernutrition by 2% per annum Anemia (among young children, women and adolescent girls) by 3% per annum Reduce low birth weight by 2% per annum  It is an inclusive Jan Andolan or “People’s Movement” that involves participation of public representatives of local bodies, government departments of the States/UTs, social organizations and the public and private sector at large. Focusing on the aims of POSHAN Abhiyaan, Mission Poshan 2.0 (Saksham Anganwadi and Poshan 2.0) has been announced in the Budget 2021-2022 as an integrated nutrition support programme, to strengthen nutritional content, delivery, outreach and outcomes with focus on developing practices that nurture health, wellness and immunity to disease and malnutrition. In order to ensure community mobilization and bolster people’s participation, every year, the month of September is celebrated as POSHAN Maah across the country.  This year, the entire month of September has been subdivided into weekly themes for focused and assimilated approach towards improving Holistic Nutrition.  Details Theme 1 (1-7 September) Plantation Activity as “PoshanVatika” Plantation activity will focus on planting of saplings of nutritious fruit trees, local vegetables and medicinal plants and herbs. Theme 2 (8-15 September) Yoga and AYUSH for Nutrition Theme 3 (16-23 September) Distribution of ‘Regional Nutrition Kit’ to Anganwadi beneficiaries of High Burdened Districts Theme 4 (24-30 September) Identification of Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) children and distribution of nutritious food News Source: PIB FDI Inflow Part of: GS Prelims  In news: Measures taken by the Government on the fronts of FDI policy reforms, investment facilitation and ease of doing business have resulted in increased FDI inflows into the country. About the trends in India’s Foreign Direct Investment: India has attracted total FDI inflow of US$ 22.53 billion during first three months of 2021-22, i.e., April, 2021 to June, 2021 which is 90% higher as compared to first three months of 2020-21 (US$ 11.84 billion). FDI equity inflow grew by 168% in the first three months of F.Y. 2021-22 (US$ 17.57 billion) compared to the year ago period (US$ 6.56 billion).  Automobile Industry emerges as the top sector during the first three months of F.Y. 2021-22 with 27% share of the total FDI Equity inflow followed by Computer Software & Hardware (17%) and Services Sector (11%) respectively. Karnataka is the top recipient state during the F.Y. 2021-22 (upto June, 2021) with 48% share of the total FDI Equity inflows followed by Maharashtra (23%) and Delhi (11%). News Source: PIB (Mains Focus) ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation GS-3: Infrastructure; Developmental Challenges Hydropower Projects in the Himalayas Context:  The Environment Ministry, in an affidavit placed in the Supreme Court recently, has disclosed that it has permitted seven hydroelectric power projects, which are reportedly in advanced stages of construction, to go ahead.  Feb 2021 Uttarakhand floods washed away at least two hydroelectric power projects — the13.2 MW Rishiganga hydroelectric power project and the Tapovan project on the Dhauliganga river, a tributary of the Alakananda. This was due to the break in the Raunthi glacier that triggered floods in the Rishiganga river. What’s the history of hydropower projects in the Himalayas? In the aftermath of the Kedarnath floods of 2013 that killed at least 5,000 people, the Supreme Court had halted the development of hydroelectric projects in Uttarakhand pending a review by the Environment Ministry on the role such projects had played in amplifying the disaster.  A 17-member expert committee, led by environmentalist Ravi Chopra, was set up by the Ministry to examine the role of 24 such proposed hydroelectric projects in the Alaknanda and Bhagirathi basin, which contains the Ganga and several tributaries.  The Chopra committee concluded that 23 projects would have an “irreversible impact” on the ecology of the region. Following this, six private project developers, whose projects were among those recommended to be stopped, said that they should be allowed to continue since their projects had already been cleared for construction before the Kedarnath tragedy. The SC directed a new committee to be set up to examine their case. This committee led by Vinod Tare of IIT Kanpur, concluded that these projects could have a significant environmental impact.  The Environment Ministry in 2015 set up yet another committee led by B.P. Das, that recommended all six projects with design modifications to some, and this gives way to the Environment Ministry’s current stance (permitting these projects)w. The Power Ministry seconded the Environment Ministry’s stance. What are the challenges such projects face? Impact on Cleanliness of Ganga The Water Ministry has maintained that the cleanliness of the river was premised on minimum levels of water flow in all seasons and the proposed projects could hinder this Climate Change increases the risk of such projects Glacier melt and permafrost thaw are projected to decrease the stability of mountain slopes and increase the number and area of glacier lakes. This increases the chances of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods. Environmental experts have attributed the glacial melt to global warming. The thermal profile of ice is increasing, which means that the temperature of ice that used to range from -6 to -20oC, was now -2oC, making it more susceptible to melting.  It was these changing phenomena that made infrastructure projects in the Himalayan regions risky. Moreover, with increased instances of cloudbursts, and intense spells of rainfall and avalanches, residents of the region were also placed at increased risk of loss of lives and livelihood. What are the conflicts/dilemmas involved with hydropower projects in Himalayas? Developmental Obligations: The Uttarakhand government has said that it’s paying over ₹1,000 crores annually to purchase electricity and therefore, the more such projects are cancelled, the harder for them to meet their development obligations.  Disproportionate risk borne by residents: Several environmentalists, residents of the region, say that the proposed projects being built by private companies allot only a limited percentage of their produced power for the State of Uttarakhand itself. Thus the State, on its own, takes on massive environmental risk without being adequately compensated for it. Renewable Source of Energy: The Centre is committed to hydropower projects because it’s a renewable source of power and helps achieve the target set forth in Paris Climate Accords. Several environmental activists say that the government push to such projects often ignores the heavy environmental & ecological cost associated with it Way Forward Government should adhere to the recommendation made by the expert committees that there should be no hydropower development beyond an elevation of 2,200 metre in the Himalayan region.  The ecological damage of hydropower projects in Himalayan region (especially in Uttarakhand) combined with the reduced cost of solar power means that government should not favour any further greenfield hydropower projects in the region. Connecting the dots: Institutional Structure for Disaster Management On Himachal Pradesh Landslide Tragedy Floods in Europe  Urban Floods: Time for a ‘sponge cities’ mission in India EDUCATION/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education, Human Resources  GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation What’s new in Higher Education Context: The new National Education Policy is in the news again with Delhi University (DU) approving the introduction of the four-year undergraduate programme from 2022, amid opposition from teachers. The NEP proposes several reforms for higher education. A look at how, if implemented in letter and spirit, the NEP can change the classroom experience: Multidisciplinarity Higher education in India is focused on producing disciplinary experts. But the new NEP proposes to break disciplinary boundaries.  What this means is that B Tech students, for example, would no longer limit themselves to their engineering branch. Instead, their programmes will have a more significant component of arts and humanities.  “Students of arts and humanities will aim to learn more science, and all will make an effort to incorporate more vocational subjects and soft skills,” the policy states. IIT-Bombay’s new Liberal Arts, Sciences, and Engineering (LASE) Programme is one example of how the NEP’s vision translates on ground It gives students the option to graduate with a Bachelor of Science (BS) degree in five fields or “concentrations” — engineering sciences, natural sciences, social sciences, art and design. The fifth option permits the student to design her own concentration.  Four-year undergrad programme Undergraduate programmes in India, except professional degrees such as B Tech and MBBS, usually last three years.  While the NEP doesn’t call for scrapping of the three-year format, it states that the four-year multidisciplinary Bachelor’s programme “shall be the preferred option”. The new policy proposes to increase the length of degree programmes to allow students to experience the full range of holistic and multidisciplinary education. While students pursuing undergraduate education will be studying an extra year, they will also have the option to exit early with the “appropriate certification”. Quitting after the  First year will earn - a certificate Second year -a diploma Third Year – a Bachelor’s degree.  Completing the entire programme would lead to a bachelor’s degree “with Research” if the student completes “a rigorous research project” in her major area(s) of study. Delhi University is the first to implement this NEP suggestion. Starting 2022, DU students can opt for either a three-year honours programme, or a four-year honours programme, or a four-year honours programme with research. They can also exit with appropriate certification. Academic Bank of Credit The University Grants Commission (UGC) had introduced a choice-based credit system (CBCS) before the NEP. Under this system, you earn credits for each course you take during your degree studies.  The Academic Bank of Credit (ABC) proposed by the NEP is where higher education institutions will digitally deposit credits earned by students for courses they studied. Under the ABC, students will be given multiple entry and exit options. This enables students to leave a degree or course and get a corresponding certification and rejoin studies after a certain time and be able to start from where they had left. It will also provide students with the flexibility to move between institutes while pursuing one degree or leave a course. Designating credits to each course would also mean that courses or projects in areas such as community service, environmental education, sciences, art, sports and value-based education would carry weight. This would go a long way in “attainment of a holistic and multidisciplinary education”. Regional languages The new education policy lays emphasis on promoting Indian languages, arts and culture through education. One of the ways it proposes to do so is by getting higher education institutions to adopt regional languages or the local tongue as the medium of instruction in the classroom.  To begin with, the government has allowed 14 engineering colleges to teach selected engineering programmes in five languages: Marathi, Tamil, Bengali, Telugu and Hindi.  This will help increase the Gross Enrolment Ratio in higher education as students who are not proficient in English will be encouraged to pursue further studies in regional languages. National Entrance Test Another proposal is a single university entrance exam conducted by the National Testing Agency. If this is implemented, students will not have to appear for multiple entrance tests.  Rather than having hundreds of universities each devising their own entrance exams, Universities can make use of this common entrance exam which drastically reduces the burden on students and the entire education system.  Connecting the dots: New Education policy 2020 All India Survey on Higher Education (AISHE) 2019-20 NEP: Higher Education Institutions and Board Exams Higher Education in Regional Languages (AIR Spotlight) Spotlight 23 (Aug): Discussion on National Monetisation Pipeline https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hg5a3QRVwL0 ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS-3: Investment Model; Indian Economy & its challenges Discussion on National Monetisation Pipeline Context: Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman launched the National Monetization Pipeline (NMP). About National Monetization Pipeline (NMP): NMP comprises a four-year pipeline of the Central Government’s brownfield infrastructure assets with an aim to monetize core assets under the Central Government to the tune of Rs 6.0 lakh crores over a period of four years, from FY22 to FY25. Besides providing visibility to investors, NMP will also serve as a medium-term roadmap for the Asset Monetisation initiative of the Government. NMP does not include monetization plans through disinvestment or through programmes linked to non-core assets, as presently it only includes assets of central government line ministries and CPSEs in infrastructure sectors. Coordination and collation of asset pipelines from states are ongoing. It is expected to be included in due course. Aims and objectives: The aim of the NMP scheme is to develop a system and a transparent mechanism towards asset monetization and monitor the performance of the initiative as well as help investors plan future activities. The objectives include providing access to quality and affordable infrastructure for citizens by luring private sector investment for better infrastructure creation. It will Create employment opportunities and fuel economic growth along with integration of the rural and semi-urban areas for better public welfare. How the assets will be monetized? An empowered committee has been constituted to implement and monitor the Asset Monetization programme.  The Core Group of Secretaries on Asset Monetization (CGAM) will be headed by the Cabinet Secretary. The sectors in which assets are being identified to monetize include roads, ports, airports, railways, power generation and transmission, telecom, warehousing, gas & product pipeline, mining, stadium, hospitality and housing. Significance of the National Monetization Pipeline (NMP): Identified as the key means for sustainable infrastructure financing, the scheme prepares a monetization pipeline of potential brownfield infrastructure assets including roads, railways, aviation, power, oil and gas, and warehousing.  Brownfield stands for projects which aim at improving or operation infrastructures that are already build and are leased or purchased by an entity  The government has planned a 6-trillion rupees pipeline of assets that can be monetised, which will include a range of assets put on the block for private sector participation. Policy think tank NITI Aayog has finalised the NMP of potential brownfield infrastructure assets that has been created for a four-year period from the financial year 2021-22 to 2024-25. Can you answer this question now? Discuss the role of National Monetization Pipeline in monetizing the core assets under the Central Government to the tune of Rs 6.0 lakh crores over a period of four years. (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) Dimasas, often seen in news, are related to which State of India? Himachal Pradesh Gujarat Assam Odisha Q.2) Consider the following statement about BCG (Bacillus Calmette-Guerin) Vaccine BCG is the only licensed vaccine available for the prevention of TB.  In India, BCG became a part of the National TB Control Programme in 2016. BCG also protects against respiratory and bacterial infections of the newborns, and other mycobacterial diseases like leprosy and Buruli’s ulcer.  Which of the above statement is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.3) Disorders Inquiry Committee during India’s freedom struggle is related to which of the following? Rowlatt Act Central Legislative Bombing Jallianwala Bagh Massacre None of the above ANSWERS FOR 28th August 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 C 3 A Must Read On Human Rights and Police: The Hindu On Biofortified food: The Indian Express On Skilling gaps: Financial Express

Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series for UPSC

[Day 92]: UPSC PRELIMS 2021- Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series

Highlights/Features of Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series:  It is a FREE initiative! Program Duration - 120 Days (31st May, 2021 to 27th September, 2021). 1. Dedicated Portal for Focused Preparation There will be a separate dedicated portal to help you stay focused and keep your preparation streamlined for the next 120 Days. The Registration link for the dedicated portal is given at the end of the post. 2. 120 Days Integrated (Prelims + Mains) Time Table This year’s RaRe Series will include Integrated Revision Plan (IRP) where we will be syncing your mains and prelims syllabus together over next 120 Days. The Revision Plan is designed by integrating IASbaba's famous flagship initiatives - 60 Day Plan and TLP Mains Answer Writing. 3. Daily RaRe Series (RRS) Videos on High Probable Topics (Monday - Friday) In video discussions, special focus is given to topics which have high probability to appear in UPSC Prelims Question Paper. Each session will be of 20 mins to 30 mins, which would cover rapid revision of 10 high probable topics (both static and current affairs) important for Prelims Exam this year according to the schedule. 4. Daily Prelims MCQs from Static (Monday - Friday) Daily Static Quiz will cover all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology. 10 questions will be posted daily and these questions are framed from the topics mentioned in the schedule and in the RaRe videos. It will ensure timely and streamlined revision of your static subjects. Note: Should be integrated with the 60 Days Plan 2021. This will expose you to diverse questions from the same topics. 5. Daily Current Affairs MCQs (Monday - Saturday) Daily 5 Current Affairs questions, based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, would be published from Monday to Saturday. Note: Current Affairs questions covered in the 60 Days Plan and Daily Quiz Monthly Compilations should be covered retrospectively. 6. Daily CSAT Quiz (Monday - Friday) CSAT has been an achilles heel for many aspirants. Daily 5 CSAT Questions will be published. 7. Daily Mains Answer Writing (Monday - Friday) GS Mains will be covered along with Prelims in an integrated manner. Daily three Mains questions will be covered syllabus-wise according to the topics mentioned in the schedule. In total, it covers 250+ Mains Questions along with synopsis. 8. Brainstorming on Ethics & Essay (BEE) (Saturday & Sunday) Each week, Sunil Oberoi Sir (Retd. IAS) will take 3 sessions, two for Essay and one for Ethics. The two sessions earmarked for Essay will have a topic-based discussion where he will discuss the approach to write issue-based and philosophical essays. The topics will be picked from previous year question papers of UPSC and TLP initiative of IASbaba. 9. Full Mocks 3 GS Paper 1 Full Mocks will be provided along the lines of UPSC Prelims. 3 CSAT Paper 2 Full Mocks will be provided so that you are not overwhelmed during the D-Day. 10. Rapid Revision (RaRe) Notes Right material plays important role in clearing the exam and Rapid Revision (RaRe) Notes will have Prelims specific subject-wise refined notes. The main objective is to help students revise most important topics and that too within a very short limited time frame. Day-92 of RaRe Series - Click here To Register - Click here For complete details of the RaRe Series -  Click here

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

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

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

TLP Mains Answer Writing

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 1 Questions [30th August,2021] – Day 166

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 1 Questions [30th August,2021] – Day 166 TLP (Phase 1) just got over on 8th May (Saturday) and we are extremely thankful for your active participation to make this program a success. Well, though TLP (Phase 1) got over, ‘Picture abhi baaqi hai mere dost’. There is a surprise for you. Since prelims is bound to get delayed once again this year, its not wise to leave the writing practice just now. Hence, we are extending the TLP program  We will be posting 3 questions per day (Monday to Friday). The questions will be based on Current Affairs, so that you don’t have to invest your time separately on exclusively mains oriented topics. So, keep practicing and keep improving. To Know More about TLP  -> CLICK HERE For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Note: Click on Each Question (Link), it will open in a new tab and then Answer respective questions! 1. How do lack of inter ministerial coordination and sluggish information sharing impede governance? Analyse. (10 Marks) अंतर मंत्रालयी समन्वय और सुस्त सूचना साझाकरण से सुशासन पर किस तरह से कमी आती है? विश्लेषण करें। 2. The governance mantra in contemporary free market economy is that the government has no business to be in business. In a politico-economic milieu like this, how are labour rights protected? Are there proactive and powerful pressure groups for the furtherance of labour interests in India? Discuss. (10 Marks) समकालीन मुक्त बाजार अर्थव्यवस्था में शासन का मंत्र यह है कि सरकार को कोई व्यवसाय नहीं करना चाहिए।इस तरह की राजनीतिक–आर्थिक क्षेत्र में, श्रम अधिकारों की रक्षा कैसे की जाती है? क्या भारत में श्रम हितों को आगे बढ़ाने के लिए सक्रिय और शक्तिशाली दबाव समूह हैं? चर्चा करें। 3. What are the impediments that affect quick decision making in the government? Analyse the root cause of this conundrum. Can you suggest some measures to expedite decision making? (15 Marks) सरकार में त्वरित निर्णय लेने में क्या बाधाएँ हैं? इस पहेली के मूल कारण का विश्लेषण करें। क्या आप निर्णय लेने में तेजी लाने के लिए कुछ उपाय सुझा सकते हैं? AWARE ( Answer Writing REdefined) Series - 7 Steps to Master Answer Writing Skills by Mohan Sir - CLICK HERE P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm every day. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each other's answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best :)

Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Take Control – Inspirational Educative Articles

Take Control: When we dig a little deeper, we see the reality that we have no control over our lives. It is the mental noise, the voice in our mind that is controlling us, and we have no control over what we tell ourselves. That’s the scary part! Can you consciously dream? No. Dreams happen and you acknowledge it. Can you consciously generate a thought process and hold on to it? You can trigger a thought process, but you can never decide its course. If you think about it, it’s like you have a different range of emotions – happiness, sadness – and let’s say all these emotions have different colors in the form of different colored liquids. What you can do with your mind is simply pour that liquid into the grooves of your mind. The mind has ridges, it has grooves which have been created over days and months and years of continuous conversation. When you pour that, the mind will decide in which direction it should take that liquid; you have no control over it. The mind will move that liquid in the veins of the mind that are already created. The only thing you can control is the trigger; that is if you’re fully conscious, if you’re fully aware of what’s happening around you, you will be able to say, “Now this is creating anger in me. This can lead to happiness. This can lead to confusion. This thought process is leading me into uncertainty.” You can acknowledge it, but once it happens in your mind, you are a victim of its processes. Why? Because you don’t have control over your mind. We can predict nature, we can predict the weather, how animals act, the movement of the planets, our solar system – everything to a certain degree of certainty. You cannot predict what a human being will do in the next moment, because we are totally unpredictable. We are being driven, not by some central ‘all-important force’ that knows what we want, we are actually driven by our language. We are driven by the conversation in our minds. I’m not saying that there is no such central force; in fact, there is. The whole effort of meditation is trying to get to the central force which is responsible for positively controlling our lives; responsible for all the best of things that we are searching for. Instead, we are actually listening to the conversation in our head which has no purpose, no meaning, it is just a repetitive habit. To go beyond the noise and listen to your inner voice is the hardest and the most rewarding of things. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Nirvana Foundation and IASBABA.”

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 28th August 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary Part of: Prelims and GS - III - Conservation  In news Recently, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change notified the eco-sensitive zone of Deepor Beel Wildlife Sanctuary  What is Deepor Beel? Deepor Beel is located to the south-west of Guwahati city, in Kamrup district of Assam, India. It is a permanent freshwater lake, in a former channel of the Brahmaputra River, to the south of the main river. It is a wetland under the Ramsar Convention which has been listed since November 2002. Considered as one of the largest beels in the Brahmaputra valley of Lower Assam, it is categorised as a representative of the wetland type under the Burma monsoon forest biogeographic region. It is also an important bird sanctuary inhabiting many migrant species. What are the concerns? A garbage dump and encroachment for human habitation and commercial units. A railway track which is set to be doubled and electrified, on its southern rim.  Deepar Beel’s water has become toxic and lost many of its aquatic plants that elephants would feed on.  Do You Know? Traditionally viewed as a wasteland or breeding ground of disease, wetlands actually provide fresh water and food and serve as nature’s shock absorber. Wetlands, critical for biodiversity, are disappearing rapidly, with recent estimates showing that 64% or more of the world’s wetlands have vanished since 1900. Major changes in land use for agriculture and grazing, water diversion for dams and canals and infrastructure development are considered to be some of the main causes of loss and degradation of wetlands. News Source: TH  Tamil Nadu moves SC over Mekedatu Part of: Prelims and GS - II - State Relations   In news The Tamil Nadu government has urgently moved the Supreme Court seeking judicial orders to restrain Karnataka from proceedings with “any activity” in regard to the proposed construction of a reservoir at Mekedatu across the inter-State Cauvery river. What is the Background? On July 6, Karnataka Chief Minister said in Bengaluru that his government would go ahead with the long-pending Mekedatu dam project. The Mekedatu multi-purpose project involves building a balancing reservoir across the Cauvery River near Kanakapura in Ramanagaram district of Karnataka. It envisages supplying drinking water to Bengaluru and Ramanagaram districts, besides generation of power. Why is Tamil Nadu opposed to it? Tamil Nadu feels that Karnataka, as the upper riparian State has adequate infrastructure even now to address the water needs of Bengaluru, there is no need for the Mekedatu project. The Mekedatu project also does not find mention in the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal’s final order or the Supreme Court judgment.  Besides, given the unpleasant experiences that it has had with Karnataka in securing its share of the Cauvery water over the years, Tamil Nadu is wary of the assurances of the other side. News Source: TH  Children’s Climate Risk Index: UNICEF Part of: Prelims and GS - II - Issues related to children and GS - III -Environmental Impact assessment  In news Recently, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) in collaboration with Fridays for Future launched a report named ‘The Climate Crisis Is a Child Rights Crisis: Introducing the Children’s Climate Risk Index’. What is Children’s Climate Risk Index? It is the first comprehensive analysis of climate risk from a child’s perspective. It ranks countries based on children’s exposure to climate and environmental shocks, such as Cyclones and Heatwaves, as well as their vulnerability to those shocks, based on their access to essential services. Pakistan (14th), Bangladesh (15th), Afghanistan (25th) and India (26th) are among four South Asian countries where children are at extremely high risk of the impacts of the climate crisis. Indian Scenario: India is among four South Asian countries where children are most at risk of the impacts of climate change threatening their health, education, and protection. It is estimated that more than 600 million Indians will face ‘acute water shortages’ in the coming years, while at the same time Flash Flooding is to increase significantly in the majority of India’s urban areas once the global temperature increase rises above 2 Celsius.  Twenty-one of the world’s 30 cities with the most polluted air in 2020 were in India. Global Scenario: Young people living in the Central African Republic, Chad, Nigeria, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau are the most at risk of the impacts of climate change. These children face a deadly combination of exposure to multiple climate and environmental shocks with a high vulnerability due to inadequate essential services, such as water and sanitation, healthcare and education. What are the Recommendations? Increase Investment Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Countries must cut their emissions by at least 45% (compared to 2010 levels) by 2030 to keep warming to no more than 1.5 degrees Celsius. Provide Climate Education Include Young People in Decisions Ensure Pandemic Recovery is Inclusive News source: DTE Chikungunya Vaccine Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II - Health and GS- III -  SCI and Tech  In news International Vaccine Institute (IVI) has announced that Bharat Biotech’s Chikungunya vaccine candidate (BBV87) has entered into Phase II and III clinical trials. Currently, there is no commercial chikungunya vaccine. About the Vaccine: BBV87 is an inactivated virus vaccine, similar to Covaxin. Inactivated vaccines contain viruses whose genetic material has been destroyed by heat, chemicals or radiation so they cannot infect cells and replicate, but can still trigger an immune response. Bharat Biotech's Chikungunya vaccine candidate was developed in partnership with the International Vaccine Institute (IVI). Development of Chikungunya Vaccine is an initiative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), as part of the Global Chikungunya Vaccine Clinical Development Program (GCCDP). It was funded by the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) with support from the Ind-CEPI mission of the Department of Biotechnology, Government of India. What is Chikungunya? Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne viral disease first described during an outbreak in southern Tanzania in 1952. The name is derived from the local Kimakonde language and means “to become contorted”, evoking the stooped appearance of patients suffering acute joint pain. Transmission: It is transmitted to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. It is most often spread to people by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. These are the same mosquitoes that transmit dengue virus. Mosquitoes acquire the infection by biting infected humans or animals. Weather conditions also affect their breeding and survival. Symptoms: Include severe joint pain, muscle pain, headache, nausea, fatigue and rashes. Treatment: Currently, there are no vaccines or antiviral drugs available to cure Chikungunya, and the treatment is only focused on relieving the symptoms associated with the infection. Reasons Behind the Spurt in Cases: There has been an increasing incidence of vector borne diseases in urban, peri-urban and rural areas because of: Haphazard urbanisation. Deficient water and solid waste management leading to proliferation of mosquito breeding sites. Absence of specific antiviral drug or vaccine. Government Initiatives to Control Chikungunya: National Vector Borne Disease Control Programme (NVBDCP) is a comprehensive programme for prevention and control of vector borne diseases namely Malaria, Filaria, Kala-azar, Japanese Encephalitis (JE), Dengue and Chikungunya. It works under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. News source: IE Tokenization by RBI Part of: GS Prelims and GS -III - Economy In news Recently, the Reserve Bank of India has decided to extend the scope of tokenisation to include consumer devices such as laptops, desktops, wearables like wristwatches and bands, as well as Internet of Things (IoT) devices. What is RBI Tokenization? Tokenization refers to the replacement of actual card details with a unique alternate code called the ‘token‘, which is unique for a combination of card, token requestor (i.e. the entity which accepts request from the customer for tokenization of a card and passes it on to the card network to issue a corresponding token) and identified device. Normally, in a tokenized card transaction, parties / stakeholders involved are merchant, the merchant’s acquirer, card payment network, token requestor, issuer and customer.  However, an entity, other than those indicated, may also participate in the transaction. About tokenization- It aims at improving the safety and security of the payment system. The Reserve Bank had earlier permitted ‘tokenization’ services, under which a unique alternate code is generated for transaction purposes, on mobile phones and tablets of cardholders. RBI had issued guidelines on “Tokenization – Card transactions” in 2019, permitting authorised card networks to offer card tokenization services to any token requestor, subject to conditions. Prior to the latest circular, the facility was available only for mobile phones and tablets of interested cardholders. A tokenized card transaction is considered safer as the actual card details are not shared with the merchant during transaction processing. Safety and Security of card details- Actual card data, token and other relevant details are stored in a secure mode by the authorised card networks. Token requestor cannot store Primary Account Number (PAN), i.e., card number, or any other card detail.  Card networks are also mandated to get the token requestor certified for safety and security that conform to international best practices / globally accepted standards. News source: BL Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine Part of: Prelims and GS - II - Health In news: Recently, the Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh has launched Pneumococcal Conjugate Vaccine (PCV) immunisation drive for infants. Earlier in December 2020, India’s first fully indigenously developed pneumococcal conjugate vaccine “Pneumosil” was launched. About the vaccine It prevents pneumococcal disease. It can protect both children and adults from pneumococcal disease. The vaccine is a mix of several bacteria of the pneumococci family, which are known to cause pneumonia—hence ‘conjugate’ is included in the name of the vaccine. Conjugate vaccines are made using a combination of two different components. What is Pneumococcal disease? Pneumococcal disease is a name for any infection caused by bacteria called Streptococcus pneumoniae or pneumococcus.  Most people carry pneumococcus in their nose and throat, where the bacteria do not cause any symptoms.However, sometimes the bacteria grow and spread to other parts of the body and that’s when people become sick. Besides pneumonia, pneumococcal bacteria can also cause:  Ear infections. Sinus infections. Meningitis (infection of the tissue covering the brain and spinal cord). Bacteremia (infection of the blood). What is Universal Immunization Programme? It was launched in 1985 to prevent mortality and morbidity in children and pregnant women against 12 vaccine-preventable diseases. Under UIP, free of cost vaccination is provided against twelve vaccine-preventable diseases i.e. Tuberculosis, Diphtheria, Pertussis, Tetanus, Polio, Hepatitis B, Pneumonia and Meningitis due to Haemophilus Influenzae type b (Hib), Measles, Rubella, Japanese Encephalitis (JE) and Rotavirus diarrhoea. The programme is one of the largest health programmes in the world. Despite being operational for many years, UIP has been able to fully immunize only 65% of children under 1 year of age. News source: TH  Havana Syndrome Part of: Prelims and GS - II - Health In news Nearly four years ago a mysterious neurological illness, referred to as “Havana syndrome”, started to afflict American diplomats and intelligence operatives in Cuba, China, and other countries. Now, a report by the National Academies of Sciences (NAS) has found “directed” microwave radiation to be its “plausible” cause. What is the ‘Havana syndrome’? In late 2016, US diplomats and other employees stationed in Havana reported feeling ill after hearing strange sounds and experiencing odd physical sensations in their hotel rooms or homes. The symptoms included nausea, severe headaches, fatigue, dizziness, sleep problems, and hearing loss, which have since come to be known as “Havana Syndrome”. What causes the ‘Havana syndrome’? Directed pulsed RF energy appears to be the most plausible mechanism in explaining these cases among those that the committee considered. The immediate symptoms that patients reported including sensations of pain and buzzing sound apparently emanated from a particular direction, or occurred in a specific spot in a room. News source: TH (News from PIB) QSim Toolkit Part of: Prelims and GS – III- Science & Tech In news: Quantum Computer Simulator (QSim) Toolkit was launched by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY). About QSim is a first-of-its-kind indigenously developed toolkit that helps in learning and understanding the practical aspects of programming using Quantum Computers. QSim provides a platform to acquire the skills of ‘programming’ (Quantum Code) as well as ‘designing’real Quantum Hardware. It enables the researchers and students to carryout research in Quantum computing in a cost effective manner. Developed collaboratively by IISc Bangalore, IIT Roorkee and C-DAC with the support of MeitY under the ‘Design and Development of Quantum Computer Toolkit (Simulator, Workbench) & Capacity Building’ project. Features - QSim offers a QC Simulator integrated with a Graphic User Interface (GUI) based Workbench allowing people to create Quantum programs. QSim helps simulate Quantum circuits with and without noise and test how well various algorithms work with imperfect quantum components. It has pre-loaded Quantum programs and algorithms providing a head start to the users. QSim - Offering Model PARAM SHAVAK QSim - Standalone system with Quantum Simulator in a box PARAM QSim Cloud - Available on cloud using HPC infrastructure PARAM SIDDHI AI (developed under NSM program). Source: PIB BH-Series Part of: Prelims and GS – III- Economy In news: Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has introduced a new registration mark for new vehicles i.e. Bharat series (BH-series). This series will help in the vehicle re-registration process while moving from one state to another state. Key Takeaways Need for new registration - Under section 47 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, a person is allowed to keep the vehicle for not more than 12 months in any state other than the state where the vehicle is registered. But a new registration with the new state- registering authority has to be made within the stipulated time of 12 months. A passenger vehicle user takes the following steps to re-register a vehicle No Objection Certificate from the Parent State for assignment of a new registration mark in another state. Assignment of new registration mark after the road tax on prorata basis is paid in the new State Application for refund of road tax in parent State on pro rata basis. Registration Mark Format in BH-series that will facilitate seamless transfer of vehicles is YY BH #### XX. YY is the code for Year of 1st registration, BH is the code for Bharat Series, #### for 0000 to 9999, XX for Alphabets (AA to ZZ). A vehicle bearing this BH-series registration mark shall not require assignment of a new registration mark when the owner of the vehicle shifts from one State to another. This vehicle registration facility under “BH-series” will be available on voluntary basis to Defense personnel, Employees of Central & State Governments/ Central & State PSUs, Employees of private sector companies/organizations, which have their offices in 4 or more States/UTs. Source: PIB (Mains Focus) POLITY/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: Polity & Judiciary Judicial Hierarchy Context:  India has integrated Judiciary compared to Federal Judicial system in USA. There is also the presence of hierarchy in Indian Judicial System. Issues:  The Constitution contemplates a hierarchy of jurisdictions, but no judge, acting within her jurisdiction, is “inferior” or “subordinate”. As constitutional beings, judges are limited in jurisdiction but also supreme within their own jurisdiction.  However, Article 235 speaks of “control over subordinate courts”. This Article adds insult to injury by describing these entities and agents as persons “holding a post inferior to the post of a district judge”. While the Constitution allows “supervision”, it does not sanction judicial despotism. Arbitrary practices in writing confidential reports of district justices seem to continue that perpetuates the inferior status associated with such “subordinate” judges. Model Judgement to be replicated across India The August 11 order of the Himachal Pradesh High Court resolves that “hereinafter, all the courts in the state other than the high court shall be referred to as district judiciary”. Furthermore, “these courts shall not be referred to as subordinate court” but as trial courts.  The colonial idea of “subordination” stands replaced by the constitutional idea of independence of the judiciary. Way Ahead: Senior-most district judges and judges of the high courts constituting the collegiate system to facilitate judicial administration, infrastructure, access, monitoring of disposal rates, minimisation of undue delays in administration of justice, alongside matters concerning transfers, and leave. Connecting the dots : Judicial Appointments System  Judiciary & AI  Women & Judiciary Language in Judiciary Judicial Administration Reform WOMEN/ GOVERNANCE/ ECONOMY GS-1: Society & issues related to women. GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to it India’s gendered digital divide: Context:  As COVID-19 coursed through countries, governments responded with lockdowns that drove people towards digital marketplaces. Globally, digital adoption escalated by five years in merely two months in 2020. India has set a target of reaching a US $1 trillion digital economy by 2025, a five fold growth from the US $200 million in 2017–18. Progress of digitalization in the wake of COVID-19 Pandemic 500 percent increase in tele-health consultations A structural shift towards online shopping with e-retail reaching 95 percent of Indian districts Digital payments touching the 100 million transactions per day mark. COVID-19 amplified another trend: The gendered digital divide. Indian women are 15 percent less likely to own a mobile phone, and 33 percent less likely to use mobile internet services than men.  In 2020, 25 percent of the total adult female population owned a smartphone versus 41 percent of adult men. Within Asia-pacific, India had the widest gender gap in internet usage in recent years, a gender gap of 40.4 percent with only 15 percent of women accessing the internet versus 25 percent of men. This gendered digital divide is often born out of a triple disadvantage for women in India.  First, there is a rural-urban digital divide, such that rural broadband penetration is only 29 percent against a national average of 51 percent. Across states, women in rural areas are less likely to own mobile phones. Second, there is an income-based digital divide between households. Given the average price for data is $0.68/GB in India, estimates show that each GB of data costs low-income households (earning less than $2/day) 3% of their monthly income versus 0.2% for middle-income households (earning US $10–$20 per day). Finally, intra-household discrimination prevents women from equitably accessing digital devices within the domestic sphere, which in turn widens the gender-based digital divide. Social Factors that excludes women from accessing digital economy Even when they are permitted to own or use household-level mobile devices, women’s online activity is often governed by male relatives.  While mobile phones are viewed as a risk to women’s reputation pre-marriage; post-marriage, phone-use is viewed as an interruption to caregiving responsibilities.  Women generally refrain from speaking on their phones in public places, preferring to conduct their conversation within the home, owing to prevailing social norms and fear of judgement. Digital illiteracy and unfamiliarity with digital platforms deterred women entrepreneurs from moving to online marketplaces post COVID-19. Way Forward It is imperative to not only increase women’s smartphone ownership as it assists in internet adoption, but also to accelerate digital literacy programmes and work towards ending digital discrimination based on gender norms. Connecting the dots: Invisible women in India’s labour market  Women Issues Women Employment Women Friendly Cities Women with disabilities (AIR Spotlight) Spotlight 19 (Aug): Prashant Kumar Singh, CEO, GOVERNMENT E- MARKET PLACE (GEM) ON REFORMS IN PUBLIC PROCUREMENT https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P2s-OA-xQ4A GOVERNANCE GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Government e-Marketplace (GeM) On the occasion of World Environment Day, a new product category of Green Room Air Conditioners was launched on the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) under the Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP) program. Government e-Marketplace (GeM) and its significance: Launched in 2016 to bring transparency, speed and efficiency in the government buying process, the GeM is a one-stop National Public Procurement Portal to facilitate online procurement of common use Goods & Services required by various Government Departments / Organizations / PSUs. It is a completely paperless, cashless and system driven e-marketplace that enables procurement of common use goods and services with minimal human interface that provides the tools of e-bidding, reverse e-auction and demand aggregation to facilitate the government users to achieve the best value for their money. It has been developed by Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (Ministry of Commerce and Industry) with technical support of National e-governance Division (MEITy). Being an open platform, GeM offers no entry barriers to bonafide suppliers who wish to do business with the Government and also eliminates human interface in vendor registration, order placement and payment processing, to a great extent. It facilitates a Single window system for aggregating demands and ordering thus enhancing transparency and ease of buying. User friendly dash board for buying and monitoring supplies and payments and is useful for low value buying and also for bulk buying at competitive price using Reverse Auction/ e-bidding. GeM SAHAY project and its significance:  Presently out of the 20 lakh sellers on GeM, there are around 7 lakhs MSE sellers and repair suppliers onboard contributing over 56 % of the full order value on GeM, which is a testimony to GeM’s success in not solely onboarding but additionally participating with the MSEs to assist them take part in public procurement.    In a bid to address the credit access challenges faced by MSMEs, the Government e Marketplace (GeM) implemented the SAHAY project in collaboration with the Indian Software Product Industry Round Table (iSPIRT), a non-profit tech thinks tank's volunteer team which is a mobile application for proprietorships which will enable them to avail financing opportunities on the GeM. The GeM-SAHAY portal can be used to provide frictionless financing for MSMEs on the Government e marketplace, allowing them to obtain a loan at the point of order acceptance on the GeM platform. Using the portal, the loan payment will be instant, rather than the traditional principle of approving the loan, which usually does not end with the actual payment. The GeM SAHAY platform is ‘lender agnostic,' allowing any lender that is duly regulated by the Reserve Bank of India to participate and provide capital and smart collection accounts to GeM sellers. Sellers who apply for the loan facility will have a seamless end-to-end digital experience via a mobile application. Can you answer this question now? Discuss the significance of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM) under the Sustainable Public Procurement (SPP) program. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1 Which of the following is not a Ramsar Convention site in India?  Suraj Tal, Ladakh Lonar Lake, Maharashtra  Sur Sarovar, Uttar Pradesh Deepor Beel, Assam Q.2 Consider the following statements Children’s Climate Risk Index: It ranks countries based on children’s exposure to climate and environmental shocks, such as Cyclones and Heatwaves, as well as their vulnerability to those shocks, based on their access to essential services. Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and India are among four South Asian countries where children are at extremely high risk of the impacts of the climate crisis. Select the correct statements: 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Consider the following statements regarding Chikungunya: It is most often spread to people by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. There are several vaccines available to prevent Chikungunya.  Select the correct statements: 1 only 2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  ANSWERS FOR 27th August 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 C 3 C Must Read On Asset Monetisation: The Hindu On Agrarian Reforms: The Indian Express On Indo-Russia Ties and China: ORF

Motivational Articles

[MI-STORIES]MOTIVATIONAL AND INSPIRATIONAL STORIES - Shadows and Dust!

For Previous Story -> CLICK HERE Inspirational Stories: Here is the story for this week from the new series of Inspirational and Motivational stories. One of the oldest known forms of communication is story telling. There is something primordial within us that loves stories and their tremendous impact. In this series, we aim to bring you the best of real-life stories that can inspire and motivate you. Stories always try to teach us something useful. It is one of the best ways of learning from other's mistakes and avoiding our own. Although each story has its own moral, in the comments section you can share your opinion on the moral of the story. If you are able to see something that others might have missed, you can share it for the benefit of all. Apart from just reading these awesome stories, you can also share some of the stories that have inspired you. If we find the story appropriate and useful, we will share it with all. More importantly, read these stories every week without a miss, and stay inspired.   So Here is the story for this week - Shadows and Dust!   One day the caliph, Haroun-al-Raschid, made a great feast. The feast was held in the grandest room of the palace. The walls and ceiling glittered with gold and precious gems. The table was decorated with rare and beautiful plants and flowers. All the noblest men of Persia and Arabia were there. Many wise men and poets and musicians had also been invited. In the midst of the feast the caliph called upon the poet, Abul Atayah, and said, "O prince of verse makers, show us thy skill. Describe in verse this glad and glorious feast." The poet rose and began: "Live, O caliph and enjoy thyself in the shelter of thy lofty palace." "That is a good beginning," said Raschid. "Let us hear the rest." The poet went on: "May each morning bring thee some new joy. May each evening see that all thy wishes have been performed." "Good! good!" said the caliph, "Go on." The poet bowed his head and obeyed: "But when the hour of death comes, O my caliph, then alas! thou wilt learn that all thy delights were but a shadow." The caliph's eyes were filled with tears. Emotion choked him. He covered his face and wept. Then one of the officers, who was sitting near the poet, cried out: "Stop! The caliph wished you to amuse him with pleasant thoughts, and you have filled his mind with melancholy." "Let the poet alone," said Raschid. "He has seen me in my blindness, and is trying to open my eyes."   What do you think is the moral of the story?

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