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[Day 82]: 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-82 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 20th 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

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 3 Questions [20th August,2021] – Day 160

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 3 Questions [20th August,2021] – Day 160 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. UNSC reforms are long called for. Many emerging economies including India are pressing for immediate reforms. Why? Analyse. Also discuss the interests of countries like Japan, Brazil and Germany to get permanent membership of the UNSC. (10 Marks) UNSC सुधारों की लंबे समय से आवश्यकता है। भारत सहित कई उभरती अर्थव्यवस्थाएं तत्काल सुधारों के लिए दबाव बना रही हैं। क्यों? विश्लेषण कीजिए। संयुक्त राष्ट्र सुरक्षा परिषद की स्थायी सदस्यता प्राप्त करने के लिए जापान, ब्राजील और जर्मनी जैसे देशों के हितों की भी चर्चा कीजिए। 2. The UN is the only universal body we all have, the one organisation to which every country in the world belongs; if it is discredited, the world as a whole will lose an institution that is irreplaceable. Critically comment. (10 Marks) संयुक्त राष्ट्र एकमात्र सार्वभौमिक निकाय है जो हम सभी के पास है, एक ऐसा संगठन जिससे दुनिया का हर देश संबंधित है; अगर इसे बदनाम किया जाता है, तो पूरी दुनिया एक ऐसी संस्था को खो देगी जिसे बदला नहीं जा सकता। समालोचनात्मक टिप्पणी करें। 3. What do you understand by the term ‘Maritime Silk Road’? Critically examine its implications vis-a-vis India’s interests? (15 Marks) 'समुद्री रेशम मार्ग' शब्द से आप क्या समझते हैं? भारत के हितों की तुलना में इसके निहितार्थों का समालोचनात्मक परीक्षण करें? AWARE ( Answer Writing REdefined) Series - 7 Steps to Master Answer Writing Skills by Mohan Sir - CLICK HERE P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm every day. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each other's answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best :)

SYNOPSIS [18th August,2021] Day 158: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE SYNOPSIS [18th August,2021] Day 158: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. Discuss the potential and challenges of food processing industry in India. Approach  Define what is food processing industry in context of India.In next part write major potential in this sector and then address the challenges.Write a forward looking conclusion which contextualises the rise of industry with change in work environment. Introduction India has made vast progress overtime in providing food security for its people and has become largely self-reliant in agriculture. Accordingly, the policy focus has shifted from attaining self-sufficiency to generating higher and stable income for the farming population. Food processing industry (FPI) is one area which has the potential to add value to farm output, create alternate employment opportunities, improve exports and strengthen the domestic supply chain. India, with about 11.2 per cent of total arable land in the world, is ranked first in the production of milk, pulses and jute, second in fruits and vegetables and third in cereals (Government of India, 2019). It is also the sixth largest food and grocery market in the world. Body Potential of Food processing industry in India : Employment Generation: It provides direct and indirect employment opportunities, because it acts as a bridge between Agriculture and Manufacturing. Doubling of farmers’ income: With the rise in demand for agri-products there will be commensurate rise in the price paid to the farmer, thereby increasing the income. Reduce malnutrition: Processed foods when fortified with vitamins and minerals can reduce the nutritional gap in the population. Reduce food wastage: UN estimates that 40% of production is wasted. Similarly, NITI Aayog estimated annual post-harvest losses of close to Rs 90,000 crore. With greater thrust on proper sorting and grading close to the farm gate, and diverting extra produce to FPI, this wastage could also be reduced, leading to better price realisation for farmers. Boosts Trade and Earns Foreign exchange: It is an important source of foreign exchange. For e.g. Indian Basmati rice is in great demand in Middle Eastern countries. Curbing Migration: Food Processing being a labour intensive industry will provide localized employment opportunities and thus will reduce the push factor in source regions of migration. Curbing Food Inflation: Processing increases the shelf life of the food thus keeping supplies in tune with the demand thereby controlling food-inflation. For e.g. Frozen Safal peas are available throughout the year. Crop-diversification: Food processing will require different types of inputs thus creating an incentive for the farmer to grow and diversify crops. Preserve the nutritive quality of food and prolongs the shelf life by preventing them from spoilage due to microbes and other spoilage agents, Enhances the quality and taste of food thereby bringing more choices in food basket Enhances consumer choices: Today, food processing allows food from other parts of the world to be transported to our local market and vice versa. Challenges Faced by Food Processing Industry In India: Supply and Demand Side Bottlenecks Small and dispersed marketable surplus due to fragmented holdings, low farm productivity due to lack of mechanization, high seasonality, perishability and lack of proper intermediation (supply chain) result in lack of availability of raw material. This in turn, impedes food processing and its exports. Demand of processed food is mainly restricted to urban areas of India. Infrastructure Bottlenecks More than 30% of the produce from farm gate is lost due to inadequate cold chain infrastructure. The NITI Aayog cited a study that estimated annual post-harvest losses close to Rs 90,000 crore. Lack of all weather roads and connectivity make supply erratic. Informalization in Food Processing Industry The food processing industry has a high concentration of unorganised segments, representing almost 75% across all product categories. Thus, causes the inefficiencies in the existing production system. Deficiencies in the Regulatory Environment: There are numerous laws, under the jurisdiction of different ministries and departments, which govern food safety and packaging. The multiplicity of legislation and administrative delays leads to contradictions in food safety specifications and guidelines. Low-Value Exports:  Further, most processing in India can be classified as primary processing, which has lower value-addition compared to secondary processing. Due to this, despite India being one of the largest producers of agricultural commodities in the world, agricultural exports as a share of GDP are fairly low in India relative to the rest of the world. The same proportion is around 4% for Brazil, 7% for Argentina, 9% for Thailand, while for India it is just 2%. Besides these, issues like mounting cost of finance, lack of skilled and trained manpower, inadequate quality control and packaging units and high taxes and duties, thwart development of FPI. Conclusion With the bourgeoning urban and young population, demand for processed food items is set to increase in the coming years. The food processing industry in India needs to gear up to meet the demand by investing in necessary infrastructure. The industry requires a steady flow of raw materials from the producers/farmers meeting specific quality standards and at stable prices. Farmer producer organisations, by bringing together small farmers and agricultural entrepreneurs, can enhance the opportunity to build more stable supply chain. Besides ensuring steady flow of income to the farmers, greater linkages with industry could also reduce wastages, particularly in perishables. 2. What are mega food parks? Discuss their objectives. Do they have backward and forward linkages? Examine.  Approach  Define what are megafood parks in Introduction.Then address the objectives as mentioned by the ministry of food processing and then write about backward and forward linkages in food industry and megafood parks .Write a forward looking positive conclusion for the industry in contention. Introduction Ministry of Food Processing Industries is implementing Mega Food Park Scheme in the country since 2008.It aims at providing a mechanism to link agricultural production to the market by bringing together farmers, processors and retailers.These food parks give a major boost to the food processing sector by adding value and reducing food wastage at each stage of the supply chain with particular focus on perishables. Body Objectives: The primary objective of establishing Mega Food Parks is to provide modern infrastructure facilities for the food processing along the value chain from farm to market with a cluster based approach based on a hub and spokes model.  It includes creation of infrastructure for primary processing and storage near the farm in the form of Primary Processing Centres (PPCs) and Collection Centres (CCs) and common facilities and enabling infrastructure like roads, electricity, water, ETP facilities etc. at Central Processing Centre (CPC).  These PPCs and CCs act as aggregation and storage points to feed raw material to the processing units located in the CPC.  These are demand-driven projects and would facilitate food processing units to meet environmental, safety and social standards.  Each Mega Food Park is likely to attract investment of about Rs. 100 Crore in common facilities and leverage an additional investment of about Rs. 250 Crore. Expected annual turnover of each MFP is about Rs. 500 Crore. It is likely to benefit about 6000 farmers/ producers directly and 25000-30000 farmers indirectly. Backward and forward integration in the food processing industry: In food processing industry, the inputs such as fruits, vegetables, dairy products, meat, poultry and fish are so much perishable that lack of transportation and backward links would result in their waste.  Further, for industry players, effective links add value to the brand by ensuring high quality end to end and better control over the factors of production resulting in cost saving and enhanced efficiency. Backward Integration refers to that integration where Company expands its activities to upstream areas. Company aims to get raw material at cheap rates, uniform quality, steady supply and eliminate any middlemen. e.g. Starbucks (chain of coffee bars) buys coffee plantations in Central America. Forward Integration refers to that integration where Company expands its activities to downstream areas. Company aims to get more control over sales, consumer-contact and eliminate any middlemen, wholesaler, retailer. e.g. Amul has its own pizza outlets and ice cream parlours. For a broader understanding one more large scale example can be cited  of Mega food parks promote the backward linkages while Rythu bazar scheme of Andhra Pradesh which helps farmers to directly sell their produce to customers promotes forward linkages. Effective and seamless backward and forward integration in food processing industry plug gaps in supply chain in terms of availability of raw material and linkages with the market. Hence, It benefits the economy in following ways: Food processing industry drives rural economy by increasing consumption due to increased income, essential for sustaining economic growth. Decrease in post-harvest wastage losses due to better technologies and improved logistics. Better compliance to food quality standards and thus expand market base. Stabilize food prices in the economy (food inflation).Consumers will be benefited with access to larger variety of products at reasonable prices. However various challenges still remain owing to Lack of infrastructure, large no. Of intermediaries, lack of testing and grading facility and land reform issues. Food processing firms, particularly Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), have difficulties in accessing finance. Government Policy around Forward and Backward Integration in Food Processing Industry: Currently, the government is running a scheme called Scheme for Creation of Backward and Forward Linkages to provide effective and seamless backward and forward integration for processed food industry. At the same time, NITI Aayog has consistently pushed for contract farming, opening of multi brand retail for 100% FDI through automatic route etc. Recently promulgated “The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Ordinance, 2020.” is likely to strengthen the Food  processing Industry by strengthening its forward and backward linkages. Conclusion Rising per-capita income, changing life style and  food habits provide significant opportunities for the growth of Food processing industry. Recently promulgated ordinances and the schemes such as SAMPADA, Mega food park etc. are likely to strengthen backward and forward linkages in turn help the  Food processing industries to grow from present 2% of GDP to optimise high output of farming sector. 3. Discuss the importance of Integrated Farming System (IFS) models in augmenting farmers’ income. Approach  Define what is Integrated farming system in introduction.In next part write in what ways it can augment farmers income.Make a forward looking conclusion which is positive in nature. Introduction: Integrated Farming System (IFS) also defined as biologically integrated farming system which integrates natural resources and regulation mechanisms into farming activities to achieve maximum replacement of off-farm inputs, secures sustainable production of high quality food and other products through ecologically preferred technologies, sustain farm income, eliminates or reduces sources of present environment pollutions generated by agriculture and sustains the multiple function of agriculture. Body Integrated farming is an alternative farming practice which was originally devised in China and now is  being supported worldwide as an all-round development of agriculture along with animal husbandry and other such occupation which is related to core agricultural practices. Integrated farming has the capability to make the agriculture sector profitable which otherwise has been proved largely as a subsistence sector and a major reason behind leaving this age old occupation and migration to cities. Advantages of Integrated Farming system in the context of farmers’ economic profile  Productivity : Integration of crop and allied enterprises helps to increase economic yield per unit area per unit time. Intensification of cropping and allied enterprises in space and time dimension found to increase the productivity. Profitability : Produce/waste material of new enterprise can be used for other enterprise at least for crop, thus reducing the cost of production and increasing profitability per rupee investment. Sustainability:- Huge quantity of inorganic fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides are required to meet the food requirement of increasing population @ 2.2 % every year. Abundant use of such material causes soil degradation and pollution. The productivity of soil gets drastically reduced in due course of time. IFS provides an opportunity to sustain production through organic supplementation and effective utilisation of byproduct of linked components. Balanced food : IFS link varied nature of enterprises to provide nutritious food viz., vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, fat, minerals etc. from the same area. This solves the malnutrition problem of poor peoples. Environmental Safety : Abundant use of inorganic fertilisers, pesticides, herbicides make the soil, water and environment polluted. Similarly, residues of some crops, waste material also pollute the environment after decomposition. However in IFS waste material, byproducts of one composite are effectively recycled using for other component and by-product of that component as organic manure to enrich the soil. Use of bio agent or crop protection also minimises the pesticides. Recycling of waste : By-product of the crop husbandry can be effectively recycled for preparation of compost. Some of the by-product can be used as feed. This reduces the cost of production of one enterprise at the cost of other. Thus net income of farm is increased. Saving energy : Energy crises can be served to same extent by utilising organic waste to generate biogas which can be used for cooking, lighting etc. Adoption of new technology : Big farmers are fully aware with the new technologies because of using improved varieties, package of practices. But small and marginal farmers are not able to adopt for want of money. In IFS linking of cropping with dairy, mushroom, sericulture, floriculture there is a flow of money throughout the year. Money round the year:- In conventional farming income is expected once at the end of cropping season. However, IFS provides flow of money round the year by way of disposing eggs, milk, edible mushroom, honey, cocoons of silkworm etc. Availability of fodder, fuel and timber : IFS utilises every part of land. Growing of fodder trees on border will not only provide fodder but also enrich the soil by fixing atmospheric nitrogen. In multi-storeyed cropping includes of fodder component like cowpea as second or third tier also meet the fodder crises. The current production of fuel wood is about 20 million ton which needs to be increased to eighteen folds. Employment round the year : Crop-livestock integration increase labour requirement through the year, other activities like mushroom cultivation, sericulture, apiculture also needs labor. Hence IFS provides employment to family members as well as outside labour throughout the year. Agro-industries :Linking of various components in IFS, the production definitely increased to commercial level. Surplus production leads to development of agro based side industry. Increase input efficiency : IFS provides better scope to use available inputs more efficiently. This leads to increase benefit: cost ratio. Standard of living : IFS leads to produce milk, eggs, fruits, honey, edible mushroom and generate bioenergy for farmers family and commercial purpose. There is regular flow of money at frequent interval through out the year. Avoid degradation of forest : There is a vast gap between demand and production of fuel wood and timber. Users encroaches/destroy the forest area to bridge the gap. Forest lands get degraded and eroded due to denudation of forest. IFS linked with Afforestation and provide safety against degradation of lands, besides supplementation of fuel, timber and fodder. Integrated Farming Systems suitable particularly for hilly regions of the North Eastern Region can be adopted. Some are as – Integrated Fish cum Pig farming, Integrated Fish cum Duck Farming, Integrated Fish Farming-Chicken, Integrated Fish farming-cum-Cattle farming, Integrated Fish farming-cum-Rabbit farming, Integrated Fish farming-cum-Agriculture. Sikkim being an organic state is a good example. Example from Indian scene: An Indian example of Integrated farming can best be understood by the fact that once a degraded land in Jodhpur, Rajasthan having very less crop production (and income) with the use of integrated farming practices such as plantation of improved qualities of Ber along with intercropping, honeybee keeping and a goat unit turned into a major revenue generator along with improving the quality of soil and decreased expenditure on fertiliser and pesticides, produced good quality fruits using organic farming which has high demand overseas. Conclusion Integrated farming systems seem to be the possible solution to the continuous increase of demand for food and nutrition, income stability and livelihood upliftment particularly for small and marginal farmers with little resources. Therefore it supplements well the goals India needs to achieve on doubling of farming income, Climate change, nutritious food, and augmenting rural livelihood. TLP Synopsis Day 158 PDF

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

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Green Bonds Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III -  Economy In news According to a Council On Energy, Environment and Water - Centre for Energy Finance (CEEW-CEF) report, Indian renewable energy project developers have raised Rs. 26,300 crore through issuance of green bonds during January to June this year.  About Green Bond  A green bond is a debt instrument, like any other bond, by which investors can finance sustainable assets or projects.  The proceeds of the green bond offering are earmarked for use towards financing 'green' projects like electric vehicles, mass rapid transport systems, water and irrigation management, renewable energy etc. They can be raised either by financial institutions for further lending to green projects, or by the developers directly for investment in their projects.   Benefits of Green Bonds Positive Impact on Environment Attracts Investment Alternative to Bank Loan: Green bonds are also an effective tool in driving down the cost of capital and reducing asset-liability mismatches.  Centre to Boost Oil Palm Farming Part of: GS Prelims and GS - II - Education In news The Centre will offer price assurances, viability gap funding and planting material assistance to oil palm farmers to boost domestic production and reduce dependence on imports via a new mission approved by the Cabinet Over a five-year period, the financial outlay for the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) will amount to Rs. 11,040 crore of which Rs. 8,844 crore is the share of the Central government. The Mission hopes to increase oil palm acreage by an additional 6.5 lakh hectares by 2025-26 and grow production of crude palm oil to 11.2 lakh tonnes by 2025-26 and up to 28 lakh tonnes by 2029-30. The government aimed to reduce the risk for farmers facing price fluctuation of the fresh fruit bunches from which oil is extracted, due to volatility in the international market. The scheme has a sunset clause, ending November 1, 2037. an assessment by the Indian institute of Oil Palm Research had found 28 lakh hectares across the country which could be safely used for oil palm cultivation. Less than four lakh hectares are currently planted with oil palm. Price mechanism The government will develop a mechanism to fix and regulate palm oil prices.  So if the market is volatile, then the Centre will pay the difference in price to the farmers through direct benefit transfer This is the first time the Centre will give oil palm farmers a price assurance, with industry mandated to pay the viability gap funding of 14.3% of crude palm oil prices.  In a bid to encourage oil palm cultivation in northeastern India and in the Andaman and Nicobar islands, the Centre will bear an additional cost of 2% of the crude palm oil prices in these States. The Mission will also more than double the support provided for the cost of planting materials. What is National Mission on Edible Oil-Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) initiative?  Indian Prime Minister recently announced National Mission on Edible Oil-Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) initiative on palm oil production to help increase farm incomes. Rs. 11,000 crores over five year period will be invested in the edible oil ecosystem through this mission   Objective: To ensure self-sufficiency in edible oil production. Aim: To reduce import dependence from 60% to 45% by 2024-25, by increasing domestic edible oil production from 10.5 million tonnes to 18 million tonnes which is a 70% growth target.  Farmers will get all needed facilities, from quality seeds to technology.  Along with promoting the cultivation of oil palm, this mission will also expand the cultivation of our other traditional oilseed crops.  News source:TH Kadavur Reserve Forest and Slender Loris Part of: Prelims and GS - II - Issues related to minorities In news There is a demand to declare Kadavur Reserve Forest  in Karur district of Tamil Nadu as a sanctuary for Slender Loris. The entire forest in the taluk has been classified as a reserve forest and considered a hotspot in the State for Slender Loris.  According to a census taken in 2016-17 by the Forest Department, the Reserve Forest has a population of 3,500 Slender Loris and the current population is estimated to be around 5,000. About Slender Loris (Loris tardigradus)- The Slender Loris is a small, secretive nocturnal primate.  These animals are about 25 cm long and have long, thin arms. Their most prominent feature is the pair of two large, closely set, brown eyes.  It is commonly found in the tropical scrub and deciduous forests as well as the dense hedgerow plantations bordering farmlands of Southern India and Sri Lanka. Being arboreal, they spend most of their life on the trees. They live between 12-15 years. The two species of slender loris are: The red slender loris (Loris tardigradus) and the gray slender loris (L. lydekkerianus) They are fond of lantana berries and also eat insects, lizards, small birds, tree frogs, tender leaves and buds. They have the habit of urine washing of their face and limbs, which is thought to soothe or defend against the sting of the toxic insects they prefer to eat. IUCN status- Endangered and has been brought under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. Threats:  As it is believed that these animals have some medicinal properties, they are captured and sold. Since there is great demand for keeping these animals as pets, they are illegally smuggled. Habitat loss, electrocution of live wires and road accidents are other threats that have caused its populations to dwindle. News source: DTE Foreigners’ Tribunals Part of: GS Prelims and GS- II - Government policies and interventions In news Assam government’s Political Department has issued a notification ordering the State police’s Border wing not to forward any case against Gurkhas to the Foreigners’ Tribunals under the Foreigners’ Act of 1946. The Border wing is tasked with identifying people of doubtful citizenship and serving them notices for a Foreigners’ Tribunal — a quasi-judicial establishment — to take over. How many Gurkhas are there in the state? According to the 2011 census, Assam has more than 5 lakh Gurkhas, most of whom came as members of armed forces under the British administration. About 22,000 Gurkhas were left out of the draft National Register of Citizens published on August 31, 2019. The cases of some 2,500 Gurkhas are pending in a few of the 100 Foreigners’ Tribunals in Assam. All such cases are to be withdrawn. Who is a declared foreigner? A declared foreigner, or DF, is a person marked by Foreigners’ Tribunal (FT) for allegedly failing to prove their citizenship after the State Police’s Border wing marks him or her as an illegal immigrant. What is a Foreigners tribunal? Foreigners’ Tribunals are quasi-judicial bodies established as per the Foreigners’ Tribunal Order, 1964 and the Foreigners’ Act, 1946. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has amended the Foreigners (Tribunals) Order, 1964, and has empowered district magistrates in all States and Union Territories to set up Foreigners Tribunals to decide whether a person staying illegally in India is a foreigner or not. Composition: Advocates not below the age of 35 years of age with at least 7 years of practice (or) Retired Judicial Officers from the Assam Judicial Service (or) Retired IAS of ACS Officers (not below the rank of Secretary/Addl. Secretary) having experience in quasi-judicial works. Who can approach? Earlier, only the State administration could move the Tribunal against a suspect. The amended order (Foreigners (Tribunal) Order, 2019) now empowers individuals to approach the Tribunals. News source: TH (News from PIB) Ratification of Kigali Amendment Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III- Environment In news: The Union Cabinet has given its approval for ratification of the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer for phase down of Hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by India. A national strategy for phase down of hydrofluorocarbons will be developed after required consultation with all the industry stakeholders by 2023. Amendments to the existing legislation framework, the Ozone Depleting Substances (Regulation and Control) Rules to allow appropriate control of the production and consumption of hydrofluorocarbons to ensure compliance with the Kigali Amendment will be done by mid-2024. The Kigali Amendment: Parties to the Montreal Protocol, under the Kigali Amendment, will phase down production and consumption of Hydrofluorocarbons, commonly known as HFCs. The Montreal Protocol, effective from 1989, is an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer by phasing out the production of numerous substances (especially chlorofluorocarbons (CFC)) that are responsible for ozone depletion. HFC were introduced as non-ozone depleting alternative to CFC such as R-12 and hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFC) such as R-21. While HFCs do not deplete the stratospheric ozone layer, they have high global warming potential ranging from 12 to 14,000, which have adverse impact on climate. Recognizing the growth in use of HFCs, especially in Refrigeration and Air-conditioning sector the Parties to the Montreal Protocol, reached another agreement in 2016 in Kigali, Rwanda to add HFCs to the list of controlled substances and approved a timeline for their gradual reduction by 80-85 per cent by the late 2040s. All amendments and adjustments of the Montreal Protocol, prior to the Kigali Amendment have Universal support. It has divided the signatory parties into three groups- The first group consists of rich and developed economies like USA, UK and EU countries who will start to phase down HFCs by 2019 and reduce it to 15% of 2012 levels by 2036. The second group consists of emerging economies like China, Brazil as well as some African countries who will start phase down by 2024 and reduce it to 20% of 2021 levels by 2045. The third group consists of developing economies and some of the hottest climatic countries like India, Pakistan, Iran, Saudi Arabia who will start phasing down HFCs by 2028 and reduce it to 15% of 2024-2026 levels till 2047. It also has a provision for a multilateral fund for developing countries for adaptation and mitigation. The phase down of HFCs is expected to  Prevent the emission of up to 105 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent of greenhouse gases Avoid up to 0.5 degree Celsius of global temperature rise by 2100, while continuing to protect the ozone layer. India and Montreal Protocol: India became a Party to the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer on 19 June 1992 and since then has ratified the amendments to the Montreal Protocol and has successfully met the phase out targets of all the Ozone Depleting Substances as per the Montreal Protocol Schedule. As per Kigali agreement, India will complete its phase down of HFCs in 4 steps from 2032 onwards with cumulative reduction of 2024-2026 levels by 10% in 2032 20% in 2037 30% in 2042  85% in 2047. News Source:  PIB International Bullion Exchange Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III- Economy In news: International Financial Services Centres Authority (IFSCA) chief launches pilot run of International Bullion Exchange; to go live on October 1, 2021, the Foundation Day of IFSCA. The IFSCA (Bullion Exchange) Regulations, 2020, were notified on December 11, 2020, which, inter alia, covers the Bullion Exchange, Clearing Corporation, Depositories and Vaults. What is Bullion? Bullion is gold and silver that is officially recognized as being at least 99.5% and 99.9% pure and is in the form of bars or ingots and is often kept as a reserve asset by governments and central banks. Bullion can sometimes be considered legal tender, most often held in reserves by central banks or used by institutional investors to hedge against inflationary effects on their portfolios thus creating Bullion Market. Key Takeaways The International Bullion Exchange shall be the “Gateway for Bullion Imports into India”, wherein all the bullion imports for domestic consumption shall be channelized through the exchange.   The government has also taken steps to notify bullion spot trading and bullion depository receipts, with the underlying bullion as financial product and bullion-related services as financial services. Significance of International Bullion Exchange: Brings all the market participants at a common transparent platform for bullion trading  Provides an efficient price discovery Assurance in the quality of gold Enable greater integration with other segments of financial markets  Help establish India’s position as a dominant trading hub in the World. 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: Indian Economy & challenges Privatisation of Public Sector Banks Context: Parliamentary standing committee on finance noted that the current stress in the banking sector is transient. Rather than allowing this temporary pain to be an alibi for privatising state-owned banks, it suggests these lenders be empowered to deal with the present challenges. However, there are counter arguments that do not agree with the views expressed by Parliamentary Panel Recoveries can help PSB balance-sheets only up to a point.  Ultimately, to survive and run efficiently, the most pronounced is that of growth capital, for which most state-owned banks are dependent on the government.  Thus, precious taxpayer money will be needed to capitalise them. Better alternative is to privatise. Tough competition from Private Banks in coming years Simply taking bad loans off the books of public sector banks will not make them more efficient.  Today, state-owned lenders may have a clear advantage over their private-sector counterparts when it comes to garnering deposits, but they are losing market share.  PSU-banks’ share of deposits fell to 68.5% in FY20, from 69.24% in FY19, while their share of loans and advances fell to 62.1% from 63.9%. In FY21, loan growth at PSBs was a paltry 3.2% while, for the private sector banks, this was 9.9%.  Technology will be critical for banking in the years ahead, and the PSBs have let the private-sector banks take the lead on this.  In this light, the arguments for privatisation gets stronger Government interference will keep them inefficient The bigger problem though is control and interference by the government, which prevents PSBs from hiring enough talent needed to stay competitive in the current environment.  They will, thus, continue to be hobbled by outdated systems and practices. Privatising poor performing Banks will reduce the burden on Government and also leads to optimum utilization of resources. Conclusion India should have reversed the ill-advised 1969 bank nationalisation policy in 1991 when the economy was liberalised. Three decades later, most PSBs need support. Too much taxpayer money has been spent on them, it is time to let them go. Also Read Privatisation of Banks Corporates as Banks SCIENCE & TECH GS-3: Basic in Science; Security Challenges Nuclear fusion and the recent breakthrough In news: Recently, the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory in California announced that an experiment carried out in its National Ignition Facility has made a breakthrough in nuclear fusion research.  In the experiment, lasers were used to heat a small target or fuel pellets.  These pellets containing deuterium and tritium fused and produced more energy.  The team noted that they were able to achieve a yield of more than 1.3 megajoules. What exactly is nuclear fusion? Nuclear fusion is defined as the combining of several small nuclei into one large nucleus with the subsequent release of huge amounts of energy.  Nuclear fusion powers our sun and harnessing this fusion energy could provide an unlimited amount of renewable energy.  It has many advantages, such as inexhaustibility of resources, no long-lived radioactive wastes, and almost no CO2 emissions. How was the new breakthrough achieved? The team used new diagnostics, improved laser precision, and even made changes to the design.  They applied laser energy on fuel pellets to heat and pressurise them at conditions similar to that at the centre of our Sun. This triggered the fusion reactions These reactions released positively charged particles called alpha particles, which in turn heated the surrounding plasma.  At high temperatures, electrons are ripped from atom’s nuclei and become a plasma or an ionised state of matter. Plasma is also known as the fourth state of matter The heated plasma also released alpha particles and a self-sustaining reaction called ignition took place. Ignition helps amplify the energy output from the nuclear fusion reaction and this could help provide clean energy for the future. The team noted an energy output of more than 1.3 megajoules What is the significance of the experiment? This is a major breakthrough as the output is higher than the previous highest energy achieved.  Previously, laser fusion programmes faced several difficulties as scientists were not able to completely understand the plasma.  Reproducing the conditions at the centre of the Sun (using fusion reaction) will allow humans to study states of matter including those found in stars and supernovae. Scientists could also gain insights into quantum states of matter and even conditions closer and closer to the beginning of the Big Bang – the hotter we get, the closer we get to the very first state of the Universe Connecting the dots: India’s Nuclear Doctrine Progress of Indo-US Nuclear Deal (AIR Spotlight) 12th Aug 2021, Interview with Giridhar Aramane, Secretary, Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. GOVERNANCE/ ECONOMY GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS-3: Indian Economy & Challenges AIR Debate: Vehicle Scrappage Policy  Old and unfit vehicles pollute air 10-12 times more compared to vehicles that are fit, and also pose a risk for road safety.  For a cleaner environment and safety of pedestrian and rider, ministry of road and transport and highways has launched the Voluntary Vehicle-Fleet Modernization Program (VVMP), also known as the Vehicle Scrapping Policy which is aimed at creating an ecosystem and for phasing out unfit and polluting vehicle. What is Vehicle Scrapping Policy  VVMP is a transformative step to introduce a regime of fitter automobiles on Indian roads. The policy is a perfect blend of incentives and disincentives, directly making the roads safer and air cleaner.  it is a multidimensional policy with a positive impact on economy, employment, environment, and India’s commitment to Sustainable Development Goals. Voluntary Vehicle-Fleet Modernization Program (VVMP) is aimed at creating an eco-system for phasing out of unfit and polluting vehicles As per the policy, every private and commercial vehicle will undergo a fitness test after its initial registration period of 15 years and 10 years, respectively. The vehicle needs to clear the fitness test to continue playing on roads. Failing which, the vehicle has to be scrapped. Why is the policy needed? Reduce pollution by scrapping ~1 Cr vehicles without valid fitness and registration and Improve Road, passenger and vehicular safety. Improve fuel efficiency and reduce maintenance cost for vehicle owners. Formalize the currently informal vehicle scrappage industry  Boost availability of low-cost raw materials for automotive, steel and electronics industry. This policy also helps reduce the dependency on raw materials import, which in turn reduces the cost of manufacturing. It will help brands to price their products aggressively. Benefits for auto sectors: The policy is expected to boost the automobile sector by pushing for buying of new vehicles by phasing out older vehicles.  It is estimated that automobile industry in India will see a jump in turnover to ₹10 lakh crore from ₹4.5 lakh crore. Vehicle Scrappage Policy Incentives & Benefits: Owners scrapping their old vehicle and plans for a new vehicle purchase will be offered incentives from the government.  Incentives will range between 4% and 6% cost of the ex-showroom price of the old vehicle. The policy also provides incentives to old vehicle owners to encourage the purchase of new vehicles, which will also help automotive sales and the overall economic growth of the country. Additionally, they will receive a rebate of up to 25 per cent of road tax upon purchase of a new vehicle. In the case of commercial vehicles, the road tax rebate will be 15 per cent. Also, vehicle manufacturers have been advised to provide a 5 per cent discount on new vehicle purchases to customers produce a scrapping certificate and a waiver on the registration fee. Can you answer this question? How significant will the implementation of Vehicle Scrappage Policy be towards reducing pollution? (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 Consider the following statements regarding Slender Loris? Its IUCN status is Endangered.  It is brought under Schedule I of the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding Foreigners' tribunal? The powers to constitute tribunals are vested only with the Ministry of Home Affairs.  Foreigners’ Tribunals are quasi-judicial bodies established as per the Foreigners’ Tribunal Order, 1964 and the Foreigners’ Act, 1946. Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  Q.3 Consider the following statements regarding Green Bonds: The proceeds of the green bond offering are earmarked for use towards financing 'green' projects like electric vehicles, mass rapid transport systems, water and irrigation management, and renewable energy.  They can be raised by financial institutions only. Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  ANSWERS FOR 18th August 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 A 3 D Must Read On criticism of Speaker: Indian Express On Increasing retirement age: Financial Express On Unemployment Crisis: Hindustan Times

[Day 81]: 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-81 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 19th 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

Important Articles

[MOCK INTERVIEW – UPSC 2020-21] New Time Slots for ONLINE MOCKS Open Now & ONE-ONE MOCKS with Mohan Sir!

Dear Students, Thank You for the Overwhelming Response and Heartwarming Feedback on our Interview Mentorship Program (IMP). More Interview Slots are now open! 430+ students have attended the Mock Interviews in Bangalore, Delhi, and Online till now!!   UPCOMING ONLINE MOCKS: 23rd August (Monday) - Slots Open! 24th August (Tuesday) - Slots Open! To BOOK YOUR TIME-SLOTS FOR For ONE-ONE MOCKS/ MENTORSHIP with Mohan Sir and for upcoming MOCK INTERVIEWS -> CLICK HERE P.S: More Mocks will be announced soon! P.S: You can also share the same with your friends who are interested in taking ONLINE Mock Interviews, One-One Mocks with Mohan Sir, DAF Questionnaire. To Know More about IASbaba's Interview Mentorship Program (IMP) -> CLICK HERE For further queries with regard to the interview, you can mail us at support@iasbaba.com or call us on 8549000077 [UPSC INTERVIEW] CURRENT AFFAIRS Discussion – Learn How to Handle Controversial Topics and Situation-Based Questions from Serving, Ex-IAS, IPS, IRS Officers & Mohan Sir – Exclusively for UPSC 2021-21 Interview Students! - CLICK HERE BABA's INTERVIEW PANELLIST Thank You IASbaba

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 3 Questions [19th August,2021] – Day 159

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 3 Questions [19th August,2021] – Day 159 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. What is the Rohingya Muslims issue? How is it affecting India’s interests and relations with Myanmar? Examine. (10 Marks) रोहिंग्या मुसलमानों का मुद्दा क्या है? यह भारत के हितों और म्यांमार के साथ संबंधों को कैसे प्रभावित कर रहा है?  जांच करें। 2. Do you think the implementation of a nationwide National Register of Citizens in would actually strengthen India’s ties with the neighbours? Critically evaluate. (10 Marks) क्या आपको लगता है कि एक राष्ट्रव्यापी नागरिक रजिस्टर के कार्यान्वयन से वास्तव में पड़ोसियों के साथ भारत के संबंध मजबूत होंगे? समालोचनात्मक मूल्यांकन करें। 3. Why is looking west is a geopolitical imperative for India? Critically examine. (15 Marks) पश्चिम की ओर देखना भारत के लिए एक भू-राजनीतिक अनिवार्यता क्यों है? समालोचनात्मक जाँच करें। AWARE ( Answer Writing REdefined) Series - 7 Steps to Master Answer Writing Skills by Mohan Sir - CLICK HERE P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm every day. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each other's answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best :)

SYNOPSIS [17th August,2021] Day 157: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE SYNOPSIS [17th August,2021] Day 157: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. Elaborate upon the concept of ‘social empowerment’. Is there a correlation between social and economic empowerment? Examine.  Approach  Define social empowerment in introduction and contextualise to the economic empowerment.In next part write how the social empowerment is necessary for economic empowerment and then provide examples from India’s past and present.Mention some antithesis for balancing with where this relationship is missing.In conclusion mention how this process can be made more inclusive for further empowerment and development. Introduction Social empowerment means all sections of the society having equal control over their lives and the opportunity to take important decisions. A nation can never have a good growth trajectory without empowering all sections of society equally.It has been seen that the citizens when are socially empowered leads to progress of nation as each individual contributes materially, mentally and culturally to the nation. Body The need for Social Empowerment Social empowerment leads one to take the right job and hence reduce the incidence of unemployment and under-employment. Social empowerment leads to a decrease in social violence engineered against the deprived section of the society. If one is empowered socially, they know the rights they enjoy and the duties they serve. Social empowerment is also advantageous in case of corruption as people tend to understand the exploitive class and restrain from giving any bribe which ultimately reduces corruption. Social empowerment is one approach to reduce poverty. When people are empowered, they tend to use the knowledge in the right direction and somehow reduce their poverty which is so important for national growth also. The main advantage of empowerment is that their will be an overall and inclusive development of the society. The money that people earn does not only help them and or their family, but it also helps develop the society. Correlation between social and economic empowerment India at the time of independence was very poor in its every sphere.Further the overall development which colonial government did was uneven.Thus the social empowerment of different sections of society and India as a whole became the policy goals of Indian government for a faster economic development. Women which constituted half of the population were have literacy rate of only 8 percent as compared to 27 for men. After Independence women were liberated from the shackles of patriarchy, given rights over land, Child marriages were banned and conscious efforts have helped to achieve the literacy rate of 65 percent. With these policies there have been improvements in economic conditions of women as they are now free to participate in employment. Scheduled Castes and Tribes which were the most depressed section of society were enabled with provisions of reservations in education and jobs.Further separate sectoral plans were made for their development.This has empowered them and made them assertive of their rights.The rise of Dalits in total job sector, the rise of Bahujan Samaj party, and various leaders emerging shows how they feel empowered.This has contributed further to increase the economic development with increasing productive capacities. Similarly Tribals have emerged as important force in development process as the forest produce which they produce and various government schemes have increased their development conditions.Further states being created based on tribal population have brought tribals in mainstream of the economic process. After 1991 with the LPG reforms initiated the whole nation was liberated from the red tapism and license raj.This empowerment of people and corporations have led to higher growth rate for India and the world.This has led to 240 million people coming out pf poverty by 2015 in India. All these instances show how there is a correlation between the social empowerment and economic growth of a nation and its people. However, there have been instances of no visible correlation between social and economic empowerment Female LFPR is declining despite higher growth, higher educational attainment, and higher age of marriage and declining fertility. Increased social empowerment did not lead to economic empowerment.  Emergence of ‘Dalit capitalism’, higher percentage in administration, higher offices from lower class communities has not effectively increased the social status of lower caste. There is widespread discrimination as seen from temple entry restriction in various parts of the country.   Conclusion The process of social empowerment is a continuing process.India has came a long way by empowering its citizens and various sectors.Today India is a 2.5 trillion economy due to past effort but to grow further there is need to further empower the citizens trough education process, health insurance , inclusive growth and enabling vulnerable sections such as women, children, minorities and LGBT community for a holistic and faster economic development.These should be the priority with targets for SDG set in 2030 2. What is your assessment of reservations in jobs and education as a tool of social empowerment? Substantiate your views.   Approach  Define what are reservations in Context of India.In next part write about the instances where it has helped to achieve equality and have been helpful.In next part write what are the concerns surrounding it.Write a balanced conclusion at the end. Introduction Reservation is the process of facilitating people in education, scholarship, jobs etc. that were faced with historical injustice.It is the form of quota-based affirmative action.It is governed by constitutional laws, statutory laws, and local rules and regulations.It system in India constitutes a number of initiatives like reserving access to seats in the legislatures, to government jobs and to enrolment in higher educational institutions. Body Reason for reservations  The reservation is undertaken to resolve the historic oppression, inequality, and discrimination suffered by those communities and to give them a place. It is meant to achieve the promise of equality enshrined in the constitution. The main objective of the reservation system in India is to improve the social and educational status of underprivileged communities and thus improve their lives. Positive effects of reservation: Historical injustice: Caste based reservation is a necessity in India because of historical negligence and injustice caused to those backward communities.This has provided the reserved portions to feel an important part and they can equally participate in the nation making process. Level Playing field: Reservation provides a level playing field as it is difficult for the backward sections who were historically deprived of education, skills, and economic mobility to suddenly start competing with those who had access to those means for centuries.For example majority of the SC/ST are materially poor as compared to other castes as per the NSSO surveys.Thus reservations help them attain an equal opportunity. Equality: Meritocracy is important, however, it will have no meaning without equality. The caste-based reservation also minimised the gap between upper and lower castes to a great extent. Administration quality: A study revealed that reservations have not affected the efficiency of administration, but enhanced quality. The best example is the Indian Railways in which the SC/ST employees comprise more in number, and the results have been better. Reservations has helped to reduce the income gaps between the different castes, help them attain job security and access education.But there have been some concerns which have risen over the years with the reservations policy followed by a India. Arguments which contest that reservations have benefitted evenly : Castes that should be actually benefitted are not being benefitted, instead, others are reaping the benefits of the reservation system.For example many of the reservations are actually cornered by well to do people, also fake certificates can easily be obtained. The reservation system has just become an instrument for politicians to gain vote banks.Over the years the politicians have just played politics with the problem which is overall a developmental issue.For example : Announcing reservations for Marathas, Jats, Patidars in recent election campaigns. Agitation for reservation resulted in several deaths, affected transport and the loss of many working days in schools and workplaces. Example- Jat agitation in Haryana. One community after another will start demanding reservations due to the success of others. Many of these communities are politically and economically sound and hence placing the whole community in the reservation system is unethical. It perpetuates caste differentiation and encourages competition among communities at the expense of national unity. Only small new elite of educated Dalits, Adivasis, and OBCs benefit from reservations. Conclusion The Constitution envisages not just a formal equality of opportunity but also the achievement of substantive equality. Reservation can be just one tool in this regard. However social empowerment and universal access to services like education and health is necessary to make the fruits of reservation reach the last man in society.Further the use of digital technologies and subcategorisation which the central government has started will help in targeted reservations policy. 3. Do you think the 1991 reforms missed banking and finance? What reforms would you recommend to fill the gaps? Discuss. Approach  Mention what are the 1991 economic reforms in introduction.In next part mention in shorts the objectives of these reforms.Further write how banking and finance have been neglected and what needs to be done.Write a summary based conclusion  Introduction  The year 1991 saw India face an unprecedented financial crisis. The crisis was triggered by a major Balance of Payments situation. The crisis was converted into a golden opportunity to reform the country’s economic situation and make-up and introduce fundamental changes in economic policy.The government brought in structural reforms and stabilisation policies.While the former was aimed at removing the rigidities in the various sectors of the Indian economy, the latter was aimed at correcting the weaknesses that had emerged on the fiscal and BoP fronts. Body Objective of Economic reforms of 1991  Enter into the field of ‘globalization’ and make the economy more market-oriented. Reduce the inflation rate and rectify imbalances in payment. Increase the growth rate of the economy and create enough foreign exchange reserves. Stabilize the economy and convert the economy into a market economy by the removal of unwanted restrictions. Allow the international flow of goods, capital, services, technology, human resources, etc. without too many restrictions. Enhance the participation of private players in all sectors of the economy. For this, the reserved sectors for the government were reduced to just 3. Lack of Banking reforms and its impact The restriction on banking that only the government could own banks continued even after July 1991. This led to limitations on new entrepreneurs in having access to resources. The pool of capital that banks were able to mobilise remained limited due to the mobilisation capacity of public sector banks.This was a bit like telling the industry that only existing industries could expand more.  This had clearly not worked as the inefficiency built into existing factors didn’t go away simply because they were allowed to produce more. The lack of innovation and low productivity had continued. With the entry of new banks restricted even after 1991, resource mobilisation remained limited. This hit the potential newcomers most. Existing banks had a preference for their traditional customers, further helping the incumbents to borrow more. They were also already better off because they could raise money in stock markets by selling their shares. When foreign investors were allowed into India later, they could buy these shares and so existing large Indian companies were able to raise both domestic and foreign equity. Even when foreign direct investment (FDI) was allowed, government regulation mostly allowed foreigners to invest in joint ventures (JVs) with Indian companies, and later if they wanted to set up another venture independently, or with another Indian company, they needed permission of the original Indian JV partner. All these came together to work well for existing companies. The restrictions on Indian finance, FDI policy and restrictions on banking continued to tilt the balance in favour of the same companies that had dominated India for a long time. While some old private banks existed, they were very small. Some new private banks were allowed later, but the sector was largely PSU dominated and continued working with the mindset of central planning. The culture of pleasing bosses coupled with little competence or incentives to push for lending to new and innovative projects didn’t change. Banking regulator Reserve Bank of India and the government too continued with the old central planning system in banking by telling banks to lend a certain percentage to “priority sectors”, as defined by the government, and another certain percentage to the government and so on Reforms needed in Banking and finance: Big Banks The Narasimham Committee Report (1991), emphasised that India should have three or four large commercial banks, with domestic and international presence, along with foreign banks. The second tier may comprise several mid-size lenders, including niche banks, with economy-wide presence. In accordance with these recommendations, the government has already merged a few PSBs, initiated steps towards setting up of DFI, Bad Bank, etc. Need for Differentiated Banks Though the universal banking model has been widely preferred, there is a need for niche banking to cater to the specific and varied requirements of different customers and borrowers. Essentially, these specialised banks would ease the access to finance in areas such as RAM (retail, agriculture, MSMEs). Further, the proposed DFI/niche banks may be established as specialised banks to have access to low-cost public deposits and for better asset-liability management. Blockchain Banking Risk management can be more specific and the neo-banks can leverage the technology to further (digital) financial inclusion and finance higher growth of aspirational/new India. In this context, technologies like Blockchain can be implemented in Indian Banking. Blockchain technology will allow prudential supervision and control over the banks may be easier. Mitigating Moral Hazard Till date, failure of public sector banks has been a rare phenomenon and the hidden sovereign guarantee is the main reason for superior public confidence in the banks. However, with the privatisation drive of PSBs, this may not be always true. Therefore, fifth generation banking reforms should focus on the need for higher individual deposit insurance and effective orderly resolution regimes to mitigate moral hazard and systemic risks with least cost to the public exchequer. ESG Framework Differentiated Banks also may be encouraged to get listed on a recognised stock exchange and adhere to ESG (Environment, Social Responsibility, and Governance) framework to create value for their stakeholders in the long run. Empowering Banks The government should tighten the loose ends by allowing them to build diversified loan portfolios, establishing sector-wise regulators, bestowing more powers to deal effectively with wilful defaulters. There is also a need to pave the way for the corporate bond market (shift from bank-led economy) to create a responsive banking system in a dynamic real economy. Conclusion Present scenario calls for a paradigm shift in the banking sector to improve its resilience and maintain financial stability. In this context, the government has recently announced new banking reforms, involving the establishment of a Development Finance Institution (DFI) for infrastructure, creation of a Bad Bank, and privatisation of public sector banks (PSBs) to ease its burden in terms of mobilising additional capital.This with governance reforms will go a long way to fill the void left by banking reforms in 1991. TLP Synopsis Day 157 PDF