Sep 16, 2021 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) NCRB report on crime Part of: Prelims and GS II - Laws and Policies Context National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) report on Crime in India was recently launched.  Key findings of the report The Coronavirus pandemic and subsequent lockdown resulted in a drop in traditional crimes like theft, robbery, and assault on women and children in 2020. There was a 28% increase in the registration of cases in 2020 in the country compared to 2019, primarily owing to the violation of COVID-19 norms.  An almost 21-fold jump was recorded in cases of disobedience to the order duly promulgated by public servants.  Crimes against Scheduled Castes showed an increase of 9.4%.  offences against the Scheduled Tribe communities showed an increase of 9.3% over 2019 What is The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)?  Headquarter: New Delhi Set-up: 1986  Ministry: Ministry of Home Affairs  Objective: To function as a repository of information on crime and criminals so as to assist the investigators in linking crime to the perpetrators. It was set up based on the recommendations of the National Police Commission (1977-1981) and the MHA’s Task Force (1985). News Source: TH  AUKUS: New partnership between Australia, the U.K. and the U.S. Part of: Prelims and GS II - International Relations Context A week before a meeting of Quad leaders in Washington DC, the Biden administration has announced a new trilateral security partnership for the Indo-Pacific between Australia, the U.K. and the U.S. (AUKUS). The grouping is security focused. It is also different from — but complementary to — arrangements such as the Quad. Key features of the partnership A central feature of the partnership would involve a trilateral 18-month effort to help Australia acquire nuclear-powered submarines which are quieter, more capable and can be deployed for longer periods, needing to surface less frequently.  The partnership would also involve a new architecture of meetings and engagements between the three countries and also cooperation across emerging technologies (applied AI, quantum technologies and undersea capabilities). The U.S. sharing this kind of technology on nuclear submarines had been done only once before — with the U.K. and almost 70 years ago. Significance: Australia has felt increasing pressure from an assertive China and has sought to strengthen its partnerships with India, the U.S. and the U.K., including through ‘plurilateral’ forums. News source: TH  PLI scheme for auto sector Part of: Prelims and GS -III - Economy  Context The Union Cabinet has approved a Rs. 26,058 crore production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme to enhance manufacture of advanced technology and green vehicles, auto parts and drones. Key takeaways  Benefits: It will attract Rs. 42,500 crore in fresh investment into the automobile and auto components industry over five years It will help create more than 7.5 lakh jobs. The scheme has been devised for both existing automotive firms and new investors. The ‘sales value linked’ scheme includes a ‘champion OEM’ incentive applicable on battery electric vehicles and hydrogen fuel cell vehicles. A ‘component champion’ incentive is for advanced automotive technology components. What is the PLI scheme? The Product Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme aimS to boost domestic manufacturing under the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. It was introduced in March 2020 and is expected to result in a minimum production worth more than $500 billion in five years. The scheme provides incentives to companies for enhancing their domestic manufacturing apart from focusing on reducing import bills and improving the cost competitiveness of local goods.  PLI scheme offers incentives on incremental sales for products manufactured in India.  Eligibility criteria for businesses under the PLI scheme vary based on the sector approved under the scheme. Some of the sectors for which PLI scheme has been approved are: Electronic or technology products  Pharmaceuticals drugs  Telecom & networking products  Food Products  High-efficiency solar PV modules News source: TH  Input Tax Credit (ITC) Part of: Prelims and GS III - Economy Context Recently, The Supreme Court said that refunds of tax credit cannot be claimed for input services under the Goods and Services Tax regime’s inverted duty structure. The SC has confirmed a Madras High Court judgment which upheld a fiscal formula included in the Central Goods and Service Tax Rules to execute refund of unutilised Input Tax Credit (ITC) accumulated on account of input services. What is Input Tax Credit (ITC)? ITC is a mechanism to avoid cascading of taxes. Cascading of taxes, in simple language, is ‘tax on tax’. Input Tax Credit refers to the tax already paid by a person at time  of purchase of goods or services and which is available as deduction from tax payable . Input tax credit in relation to GST to a registered person means, the CGST, SGST/UTGST or IGST charged on any supply of goods or services or both made to him.  It includes IGST charged on imports & tax payable under reverse charge mechanism. When one buys a product/service from a registered dealer we pay taxes on the purchase.  On selling, we collect the tax.  We adjust the taxes paid at the time of purchase with the amount of output tax (tax on sales) and balance liability of tax (tax on sales minus tax on purchase) has to be paid to the government.  This mechanism is called utilization of input tax credit. If the tax paid on inputs is higher than the tax on the output, the excess can be claimed as a refund. Exceptions: A business under composition scheme cannot avail of input tax credit. ITC cannot be claimed for personal use or for goods that are exempt. (News from PIB) National Florence Nightingale Awards 2020 Part of: GS-Prelims  In News: National Florence Nightingale Awards 2020 was conferred to 51 awardees by the President Florence Nightingale awards were instituted in the year 1973 by the Government as a mark of recognition for the meritorious services rendered by nurses to the society. News Source: PIB ‘Shoonya’ Campaign Part of: GS-Prelims and GS-III: Environment & Climate change About the campaign: An initiative to promote zero-pollution delivery vehicles by working with consumers and industry.  The campaign aims to accelerate adoption of electric vehicles (EVs) in the urban deliveries segment and create consumer awareness about the benefits of zero-pollution delivery. Urban freight vehicles account for 10 percent of freight transportation-related CO2 emissions in India, and these emissions are expected to grow by 114 percent by 2030.  EVs emit no tailpipe emissions, which can contribute immensely to an improved air quality. Even when accounting for their manufacture, they emit 15-40 percent less CO2 compared to their internal combustion engine counterparts and have lower operational cost. News Source: PIB Exercise ZAPAD-2021 Part of: GS Prelims and GS – II – International Relations  Context: A seven day long Multilateral 'Joint Strategic Exercise' which saw participation from seven countries; one of the theatre-level exercises of the Russian armed forces with the focus primarily on operations against terrorists. Nine Participating countries: Mongolia, Armenia, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Serbia, Russia, India and Belarus. Eight Observers countries: Pakistan, China, Vietnam, Malaysia, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Uzbekistan and Sri Lanka. Military Exercise between India and Russia: The 12th Edition of Indo-Russia joint military Exercise INDRA  News Source: PIB Development of High-quality transparent ceramics Part of: GS Prelims  In News: Indian researchers have developed transparent ceramics, reaching theoretical transparency through a technique called colloidal processing followed by simultaneous application of temperature and pressure, for the first time in India.  The material can be used for thermal imaging applications, especially in harsh service conditions and personal protection systems such as, helmets, face shields, and goggles. Transparent ceramics:  A new class of advanced materials with unique transparency and excellent mechanical properties Can be designed not only for transparent to visible light but also for ultraviolet (UV), Infrared (IR), and Radiofrequency (RF), giving opportunity for diverse applications. News Source: PIB New Species of Hybodont Shark Part of: GS-Prelims and GS-III: Environment In News: In a rare discovery, teeth of new species of hybodont shark of Jurassic age have been reported for the first time from Jaisalmer. Represent a new species named by the research team as Strophodusjaisalmerensis. The genus Strophodus has been identified for the first time from the Indian subcontinent and is only the third such record from Asia, the other two being from Japan and Thailand. This discovery marks an important milestone in the study of Jurassic vertebrate fossils in the Jaisalmer region of Rajasthan, and it opens a new window for further research in the domain of vertebrate fossils. About Hybodont shark   Hybodonts, an extinct group of sharks, was a dominant group of fishes in both marine and fluvial environments during the Triassic and early Jurassic time.  Started to decline in marine environments from the Middle Jurassic onwards until they formed a relatively minor component of open-marine shark assemblages.  Hybodonts finally became extinct at the end of the Cretaceous time 65 million years ago. News Source: PIB PLI Scheme for Drone Industry Part of: GS-Prelims and GS-II: Governance Context: Government has approved Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme for Drone Industry Will incentivize emergence of Advanced Automotive Technologies global supply chain in India Help create additional employment of over 7.6 lakh people Incentives worth ₹ 26,058 crore will be provided to industry over five years It will bring fresh investments of over₹5,000 crore in three years and incremental production of over ₹ 1,500 crore News Source: PIB India’s Gems & Jewellery sector Part of: GS-Prelims  Contribution of around 7% to GDP 10-12% share in country’s total merchandise export One of the leading sectors in terms of employment generation providing employment to approx. 5 million skilled and semi-skilled workforce. One of largest exporter of other segments of industry such as gold jewellery, silver jewellery, coloured gemstones and synthetic stones Has been one of the worst-hit sectors in India during the Covid-19 pandemic and its exports saw a record decline of (-) 98% in April 2020 due to the complete lockdown situation in the country. Policy that helped the industry bounce back Revamped Gold Monetisation Scheme Reduction in import duty of gold, hallmarking, etc.  Various virtual trade events like virtual Buyer Seller Meets, virtual IIJS, virtual International Gems & Jewellery Show (e-IGJS), India Global Connect, Webinars etc.  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 and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. GS-3: Infrastructure: Telecommunications etc. Telecom Relief Package: 4-year moratorium on AGR dues Context: Recently, the Union Cabinet approved relief measures for telecom sector which include the following: Four-year moratorium on payment of statutory dues by telecom companies, both AGR and spectrum charges  Simplified Definition of AGR: The definition of AGR has been rationalised by excluding non-telecom revenue of telecom companies on a prospective basis (from now onwards) Telecom operators are required to pay licence fees and spectrum charges in the form of ‘revenue share’ to the government The revenue amount used to calculate this revenue share is termed as Adjusted Gross Revenue or AGR Relaxation in FDI: 100 per cent FDI in telecom via the automatic route has been approved (earlier 49%) Charges Rationalised: The regime of heavy interest, penalty and interest on penalty on payment of licence fees, spectrum charges and all kinds of charges has been rationalised.  Reduced Interest: The Centre will do annual compounding of interest instead of the monthly compounding. The interest would be charged at a ‘reasonable’ rate of MCLR plus 2%. MCLR refers to the lowest lending rate banks are permitted to offer — the marginal cost of funds-based lending rate. Long periods of spectrum usage: Spectrum auctions will be held in the last quarter of every financial year. Spectrum auction will be done for 30 years, instead of 20 years. After completing 10-years lock-in period, the buyer will have the option to surrender by paying surrender charges.  Ease of doing business: Spectrum sharing has been completely allowed and made free. Also, shifting between prepaid, post-paid to not require fresh KYC What is the background of these reforms? In October 2019, the Supreme Court had ordered telecom operators to pay Rs 1.47 lakh crore to the Department of Telecommunications as pending AGR-dues However, in September 2020, the Supreme Court had granted 10 years to the telecom companies to clear their AGR dues of around Rs 1.47 lakh crore to the Centre. These AGR dues (along with disruption caused Jio’s entry) had impacted the cash flow of various telecos that had wider impact on the Telecom sector itself. There were fears about a duopoly emerging with just two major telecom players — Bharti Airtel and Reliance Jio. However, the government was keen on ensuring that there were more players in the sector and customer retaining choices. Competition in the sector will always lead to better prices and better technology.  Significance Relief to multiple Telecos: The package provides relief for debt-ridden Vodafone Idea which still owes roughly Rs 50,000 crore to the government as AGR dues. It also provides relief to Tata group (dues of Rs. 12,601 crores) and Aircel (Rs. 12,389 crores).  Relief for the cash-strapped telecom sector.: Moratorium on AGR dues provides an annual cash flow relief of around ₹14,000 crore for the industry while the moratorium on spectrum dues gives another ₹32,000 crore of annual cash flow relief as a whole. The reform package, therefore, provides telcos the flexibility to manage their cash flows better and boosts growth in the telecoms industry Safeguards Banking Health: Banking sector’s exposure to the telecom players is significant at over Rs 1 lakh crore. The telecom package comes as a relief to the banks as it prevents the possibility of default by vulnerable telecos (Vodafone). This would help in stabilising and reducing the non-performing assets in the sector.  Boost to Digital future: These fresh reforms will further boost telecos efforts to invest in future digital technologies and preparing the infrastructure for India’s digital economy. Concerns Past Dues remain: The change in definition of AGR that will reduce the burden on telcos, applies only prospectively, so those past dues remain payable. Temporary Measure: While it provides time to put their house in order, the telcos’ overall liability does not come down and ultimately they will have to raise tariffs to generate sufficient cash flows. AGR dues will have to be paid with interest.  Unfulfilled Demands: A long-standing demand for the government’s intervention in setting telecom floor tariffs, as it has done in the civil aviation sector to protect competition, did not find a place in the relief package Connecting the dots: AGR Crisis PLI Scheme for Telecom EDUCATION/ POLITY GS-2: Issues relating to development and management of Education GS-2: Issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure  Tamil Nadu’s case against NEET Context: Recently, Tamil Nadu Assembly has passed a bill to exempt students of the state from appearing in the NEET for admissions into medical and dental courses What Is National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET)? It is an entrance exam for medical courses like MBBS, BDS, and Post Graduation in both government and private medical colleges.  In 2013, NEET-UG replaced the All India Pre Medical Test (AIPMT) and all individual MBBS exams conducted by states or colleges themselves.  The NTA – National Testing Agency, the regulatory body for NEET UG Exam, conducts it every year in various parts of India in multiple languages. The responsibility of the NTA is limited to  Conduct of the entrance examination Declaration of result and for providing an “All India Rank Merit List” to the Government of India for the conduct of counselling for 15% All India Quota Seats  Providing the result to States/other Counselling Authorities. NEET is based on a core curriculum approach, whereby the syllabi of all the school boards have been taken into consideration. NEET has become the only means of gaining admission to medical institutions, including private colleges, after the Supreme Court’s categorical view that such a test alone could help maintain standards. Why Tamil Nadu is opposing NEET? In Tamil Nadu, NEET has been a sensitive subject where several students have allegedly died by suicide over the years after failing to qualify for the exam. One of the primary arguments by Tamil Nadu is that NEET would push certain categories of students out of the race for MBBS degrees, and its goal of providing equitable opportunities for all would be frustrated.   Students from government schools and rural areas would not be able to afford the coaching that would be essential for the competitive test, the State government argued.   What is the context of the recent bill? What sparked an uproar and led to the Bill was the death of a 19-year old boy who died by suicide, hours before he was supposed to take the NEET exam for the third time.  This is not Tamil Nadu's first attempt to get exemption from the exam; an effort was made in 2017 through ordinance but didn't get President's nod. President’s assent is required as the proposed State law is in conflict with the parliamentary legislation regulating medical admissions.  Abolition of NEET was even the election promise of the current ruling party.  The recent Tamil Nadu Admission to Undergraduate Medical Degree Courses Bill, 2021 is based on A.K. Rajan Committee observations on NEET.  The committee viewed that NEET would adversely affect the rural and urban poor, and consequently, hurt State’s future manpower availability to run its network of primary health centres. 2021 law exempt students of the state from appearing in the NEET for admissions into medical and dental courses. Tamil Nadu government wants entrance to happen on the basis of marks obtained in Class 12.  However, it will be quite difficult for the Union government to grant relief to one State alone in the face of Supreme Court judgement on NEET (mandatory to help maintain standards). It might meet the same fate as that of 2017 bill. Way Ahead  Need for Dispassionate Debate: The anti-NEET narrative in Tamil Nadu should not be viewed as a product of Tamil exclusivism but should be deliberated in dispassionate manner. Need for reviewing NEET: The time may also have come to examine whether NEET has met its purposes of improving standards and curbing commercialisation and profiteering.  Balancing interests: Centre has to conceive a better system that will allow a fair admission process while preserving inter se merit and preventing rampant commercialisation. Connecting the dots: Medical Education: Over-centralisation is harsh (Criticism of NEET) National Medical Commission (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 National Crime Records Bureau comes under which of the following Ministry?   Ministry of Urban development  Ministry of Home Affairs  It is an independent agency None of the above Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding PLI scheme: The Product Linked Incentive (PLI) scheme aimS to boost domestic manufacturing under the government’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The scheme provides incentives to companies for enhancing their domestic manufacturing apart from focusing on reducing import bills and improving the cost competitiveness of local goods. Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  Q.3 Which of the following is not a part of the Quad group? India China Australia United Kingdom ANSWERS FOR 15th Sept 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 B 2 D 3 C Must Read On changes needed in GST: Indian Express On dealing with learning loss during Pandemic: Indian Express On India-China relations: The Hindu

Sep 16, 2021 Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series for UPSC

[Day 109]: 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-109 of RaRe Series - Click here To Register - Click here For complete details of the RaRe Series -  Click here

Sep 16, 2021 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

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

Sep 16, 2021 Important Articles

DOWNLOAD : E-Admit Card (Hall Ticket) for UPSC Civil Services (PRELIMINARY) Examination, 2021

Dear Students, UPSC has published the link to download e-admit card (hall-ticket) for Civil Services Preliminary Exam 2020. The Preliminary exam will be held on October 10th, 2021. You can download the e-admit card, by entering your Registration ID. To Download – > Click Here All the Best 🙂   IASbaba

Sep 16, 2021 IASbaba's Courses

[LAST DAY TO REGISTER] Baba's GURUKUL 2022 ENTRANCE TEST on 18th September

Dear Students The Registrations for Baba's GURUKUL 2022 Entrance Test closes TODAY 16th September (10 PM). Hurry Up and Register Now! REGISTER NOW - CLICK HERE DETAILS OF THE ENTRANCE TEST The entrance test will be exactly like UPSC-CSE where you will be facing a Prelims test, a Mains test, and a Personality test. Prelims and Mains exam will be on the same day and based on the merit list, students will be short-listed for the interview. The selection process will be similar to UPSC standards, comprising of one Prelims Test (75 MCQ’s – 150 marks; Syllabus will include current affairs of last six months and static GS topics + Objective CSAT questions), one Mains Test – 150 marks (it will include an essay based on Current Issues and case studies of Ethics to check the approach of candidates) and a Personality Test (it will be conducted to check the dedication of candidates and their level of understanding of Current Issues). The 1st entrance test will be held on 18th September (Saturday) at 11 AM. The test will be held ONLINE and OFFLINE (Bangalore, Delhi, and Lucknow Centres) The Results of the 1st Entrance Test will be out on the 20th of September (Monday) Interviews will be starting from 22nd September (Wednesday) Final Results will be out on 25th September (Saturday) To Know More About Baba's Gurukul 2022 - CLICK HERE For ANY QUERIES: Email ID: support@iasbaba.com Contact No. : 9169191888 (10 AM – 6 PM) Please do not make calls before or after the given timing. You can also reach us on – BENGALURU CENTRE: IASbaba Admission Centre: No.38, 3rd Cross, 1st Phase, 2nd Stage, 60 Feet Mains Road, Chandralayout, Bengaluru-560040. Landmark: Opposite to BBMP Office/ CULT Fitness DELHI CENTRE: 5B, PUSA Road, Opposite to Metro Pillar 110, Karol Bagh, New Delhi -110005 (Landmark: CROMA Store) LUCKNOW CENTRE:  IASbaba, B-1/66, Sector J, Aligunj, Lucknow – 226024. Landmark: Near Mr Brown / Opp to Sahu Studio All the best 🙂 IASbaba

Sep 15, 2021 IASbaba's OFFLINE CLASSES

[DELHI OFFLINE CLASSES] Baba’s Foundation Course (FC) 2022 CLASSROOM PROGRAM for Fresher’s - New Batch Starting from 18th October 2021

Hello Everyone, After innumerable requests on calls, messages, and emails, we are finally happy to announce Baba's FOUNDATION COURSE (FC) - 2022 at DELHI from 18th October 2021. Baba's Foundation Course (FC) 2022 is an integrated course that covers the entire General Studies (GS) syllabus of Prelims and Mains. All the subjects will be taught right from the basics till the UPSC level. The entire Syllabus will be finished well in advance so that you have exclusive three months to prepare for Prelims 2022. Admissions are open and since we have to maintain social distancing, seats are limited. SO ENROL NOW!! Features of Baba's Foundation Course (FC) 2022 Integration of Online Programme with Offline Classes:  Offline Classes will be complemented with Online Content which would contain Babapedia (Current Affairs) and ‘Value Add’ Notes (VAN). Catering to Prelims, Mains and Interview: The classes will be conducted keeping all the 3 Stages of the examination (Prelims, Mains, Interview) in mind. All GS papers will be covered before Prelims. Prelims and Mains Tests: Prelims (GS + CSAT) and Mains Tests are incorporated into the programme. The tests will be designed keeping a fresher’s preparation in mind. Accordingly, there will be a gradual increase in the difficulty level of the test. The test series has been designed keeping the ‘learning-curve’ of the students in mind so that there is an improvement in their performance in every single test. GS & Current Affairs Test: Students will have a weekly GS test of 50 questions and Fortnightly Current Affairs test of 50 questions. That means you will be solving 300 questions per month. Prelims Tests: 24 Subject Wise Mini Tests + 27 Current Affairs Tests + 9 Full Revision Tests + 5 Mock Tests + 10 CSAT Tests – A total of 75 Tests Mains Tests: 24 Mains Test + 10 Essay Tests – A total of 34 Tests Daily Mains Answer Writing: Daily one Mains question will be discussed in the class by the mentor. Daily Mains Answer Writing Practice (150+Questions) (Including Current Affairs). Weekly Current Affairs Classes: In tune with the demand of UPSC, there will be weekly Current Affairs Classes/Discussions and Test. Mentorship: We have the best mentors for the programme who will guide you throughout with the best possible support. High Calibre Faculty: IAS rank holders, IIT, IIM, NIT, and RV College alumni who are extremely talented, experienced, dynamic, friendly and accessible who will be providing vastly superior inputs. Unique Pedagogy: End to end integrated preparation with tests, discussions, and quizzes modelled in the programme. Module wise completion of the syllabus: Highly focused and micro module planning with an aim to cover your syllabus in an integrated manner by the end of February 2022 so that you get adequate time for revision and solving mock tests. Online support: IASbaba is the only institute to sync offline and online programmes in the most systematic manner. Series of Interactive Lectures: Eminent personalities from various fields and previous year toppers invited to take value add sessions on important issues to enrich your preparation. Extracurricular activities: To make the classroom a vibrant and energetic place, extracurricular activities will be arranged during the course duration. To Know Complete Details about Baba’s Foundation Course 2022 – CLICK HERE No Cost EMI Facility We are aware that, due to the pandemic a few of us are facing income losses and hardships. So, we have come up with ‘No Cost EMI Facility’ for Students enrolling in Baba’s Foundation Course 2022. Please note that there will be no processing fee involved and no hidden costs when you avail the EMI facility. For More Details/Queries Email us at: support@iasbaba.com Mobile No: 91691 91888 (Please call between 10 am – 6 pm ONLY) DELHI CENTRE: IASBABA, 5B, Pusa Road, Karol Bagh, New Delhi – 110005. Landmark: Just 50m from Karol Bagh Metro Station, GATE No. 8 (Next to Croma Store)   Regards IASbaba

Sep 15, 2021 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Forest Rights Act, 2006 to be implemented in J&K Part of: Prelims and GS III - Policies and interventions  Context The Jammu and Kashmir government has decided to implement the Forest Rights Act, 2006. It will elevate the socio-economic status of tribals and nomadic communities, including Gujjar-Bakerwals and Gaddi-Sippis. The decision will address the prolonged suffering of tribal people and also ensure forest conservation. About Forest rights act, 2006  The law deals with the rights of forest-dwelling communities to land and other resources, denied to them over decades as a result of the continuance of colonial forest laws in India. Eligibility is confined to those who “primarily reside in forests” and who depend on forests and forest land for a livelihood. Further, either the claimant must be a member of the Scheduled Tribes scheduled in that area or must have been residing in the forest for 75 years. News source: TH  Petrol, diesel under GST purview Part of: Prelims and GS III - Economy Context The GST Council might consider taxing petrol, diesel and other petroleum products under the single national GST regime. Instead of GST, as of now, taxes like 'Excise Duty' and 'VAT’ are being imposed on Petroleum goods like petrol, diesel, Air Turbine Fuel (ATF), natural gas and crude oil  When GST was implemented in 2017, States did not allow these goods to be included in GST, because they were getting huge revenues (through VAT) on these goods.  They thought that if these petroleum goods were included in the GST, then they would lose the freedom to decide the tax rate on these goods.  So, at that time it was agreed that within 5 years i.e. by 2022, these petroleum goods will be included in GST. About GST Council The GST Council is a constitutional body established under Article 279A of Indian Constitution It makes recommendations to the Union and State Government on issues related to Goods and Service Tax (GST). The GST Council is chaired by the Union Finance Minister. Its other members are the Union State Minister of Revenue or Finance and Ministers in-charge of Finance or Taxation of all the States. News source: TH  WPI inflation Part of: Prelims and GS -III - Economy  Context Inflation in wholesale prices resurged to 11.39% in August, staying in the double digits for the fifth month in a row. Key inflation data Inflation in manufactured products: 11.4% Inflation in manufactured products: 26.1% Food price inflation: 3.43% LPG, petrol and diesel inflation: 48.1%, 61.5% and 50.7% respectively The Difference between WPI and CPI Context WPI (Wholesale Price index) CPI (consumer price index) Definition Amounts to the average change in prices of commodities at the wholesale level. Indicates the average change in the prices of commodities at the retail level. Publishing office Office of Economic Advisor (Ministry of Commerce & Industry) Central Statistics Office (Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation) & Labour Bureau Commodities Goods only Goods and Services both Base Year 2011-12 2012 Note: Base Year to be revised. Published Monthly Monthly Linking of Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and PayNow Part of: Prelims and GS III - Economy Context The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) announced a project to link their respective fast payment systems — Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and PayNow.  PayNow is the fast payment system of Singapore that enables peer-to-peer fund-transfer service. The linkage is targeted to be operationalised by July 2022. The UPI-PayNow linkage will enable users of each of the two fast-payment systems to make instant, low-cost, cross-border fund transfers on a reciprocal basis without a need to get on boarded onto the other payment system. What is Unified Payments Interface (UPI)? UPI is a payment system launched in April 2016 by National Payments Corporation of India(NPCI), that allows money transfer between any two bank accounts by using a smartphone. It facilitates customers to make round-the-clock payments instantly using a virtual payment address created by the customer. UPI allows a customer to pay directly from a bank account to different merchants, both online and offline, without the hassle of typing card or bank details. It also caters to the “Peer to Peer” collect request which can be scheduled and paid as per requirement and convenience. More than 100 million UPI QRs have been created in the last 5 years  BHIM UPI in 2020-21 has processed 22 billion transactions worth Rs 41 lakh crore. T+1 settlement system Part of: Prelims and GS III - Economy Context Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has offered T+1 settlement system for stock Market exchanges.  If the stock exchange agrees to the proposal, investors will get money for shares they sold or bought in their accounts faster, and in a safer and risk-free environment. What Is T+1 (T+2, T+3) cycles? T+1 (T+2, T+3) are abbreviations that refer to the settlement date of security transactions. The “T” stands for transaction date, which is the day the transaction takes place. The numbers 1, 2, or 3 denote how many days after the transaction date the settlement—or the transfer of money and security ownership—takes place. Stocks and mutual funds are usually T+1 and bonds and money market funds vary among T+1, T+2, and T+3. CRISPR to control growth of mosquitoes Part of: Prelims and GS III - Sci and tech Context Researchers from California have developed a CRISPR-based system to safely restrain mosquito vectors via sterilization.  It is called the new precision-guided sterile insect technique, or pgSIT. Mechanism pgSIT uses a CRISPR-based approach to engineer deployable mosquitoes that can suppress populations. It alters genes linked to male fertility — creating sterile offspring — and female flight in Aedes aegypti. The mosquito species is responsible for spreading wide-ranging diseases including dengue fever, chikungunya, and Zika. pgSIT uses CRISPR to sterilize male mosquitoes and render female mosquitoes, which spread disease, as flightless. Why is this significant? pgSIT eggs can be shipped to a location threatened by mosquito-borne disease  Once the pgSIT eggs are released in the wild, sterile pgSIT males will emerge and eventually mate with females, driving down the wild population as needed. What is CRISPR? CRISPR technology is basically a gene-editing technology that can be used for the purpose of altering genetic expression or changing the genome of an organism.  It can be used for targeting specific genetic code or editing the DNA at particular locations. Potential applications: Correcting genetic defects, treating and preventing the spread of diseases and improving crops.  Battle of Saragarhi Part of: Prelims and GS I – Modern History Context: September 12 marked the 124th anniversary of the Battle of Saragarhi. The Battle of Saragarhi was a last-stand battle fought before the Tirah Campaign between the British Raj and Afghan tribesmen. Saragarhi was the communication tower between Fort Lockhart and Fort Gulistan. The two forts in the rugged North West Frontier Province (NWFP) were built by Maharaja Ranjit Singh but renamed by the British.  On 12 September 1897, an estimated 12,000 – 24,000 Orakzai and Afridi tribesmen attacked the outpost of Saragarhi, cutting off Fort Gulistan from Fort Lockhart.  The soldiers of 36th Sikh, led by Havildar Ishar Singh, fought till their last breath, killing 200 tribals and injuring 600. In 2017, the Punjab government decided to observe Saragarhi Day on September 12 as a holiday. (News from PIB) Hindi Diwas Part of: GS-Prelims  Celebrated every year on 14 September marking the declaration of the Hindi language as one of the official languages of Union government of India.  On 14 September 1949, Hindi was adopted as one of the official languages of India. News Source: PIB Digital Agriculture Part of: GS-Prelims and GS III-Agriculture  Context: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers welfare signs 5 MOUs with private companies for taking forward Digital Agriculture A Digital agriculture mission has been initiated for 2021 -2025 by government for projects based on new technologies like artificial intelligence, block chain, remote sensing and GIS technology, use of drones and robots etc.  To imbibe an ecosystem thinking and a digital ecosystem.  The Agriculture value chain extends from crop selection to crop management and the market; it involves public and private players in agricultural inputs and services and also logistics.  Establishing a digital ecosystem of agriculture needs to take a long-term view of aspects like interoperability, data governance, data quality, data standards, security and privacy, besides promoting innovation.  A significant requirement is adoption of a decentralized, federated architecture that assures autonomy to the service providers and all other actors and ensures interoperability at the same time.   Creation of a federated Farmers Database and building different Services around this Database - to build Digital Ecosystems of Agriculture.  Federated farmers’ database will be linked by the land records of farmers from across the country and unique Farmer ID will be created - Information of all benefits and supports of various schemes will be provided.  Advantage:  Based on these pilot projects farmers will be able to take informed decisions on what crop to grow, what variety of seed to use and what best practises to adopt to maximise the yield. Plan their procurement and logistics on precise and timely information.  News Source: PIB 18th ASEAN-India Economic Ministers’ (AEM) Consultations Part of: Prelims and GS – II – International Relations  In News: The meeting was attended by the Economic Ministers of all the 10 ASEAN countries Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. Points discussed: Took stock of the current pandemic situation and reaffirmed their commitment to take collective actions in mitigating the economic impact of the pandemic and ensuring resilient supply chains in the region.  Appreciated the deepening trade and investment between ASEAN and India and the trade partners’ mutual support in combating the pandemic. India is ASEAN’s 7th largest trading partner and one of the largest sources of FDI. Actively discussed the early commencement of the ASEAN India Trade in Goods Agreement (AITIGA) Review.  India –  Highlighted that the trade arrangement has to be reciprocal, mutually beneficial and should balance the aspirations of both the partners.  Need for securing the FTA provisions to prevent misuse of the preferential treatment  Suggested that both sides should make earnest efforts to finalize the Scoping Paper before the ASEAN-India Leaders’ Summit  Requested ASEAN to establish Joint Committees for the Review of the India-ASEAN Services and Investment Agreements without any delay. Highlighted India’s current focus on the mass vaccination, capacity enhancements and the economic initiatives to address the pandemic challenges, the widespread reforms undertaken by India in various sectors including agriculture, banking, insurance, logistics, corporate laws, investment regime etc.  Invited ASEAN countries to invest in India in potential sectors, including health and pharmaceutical sector.  News Source: PIB India-ASEAN Connectivity Partnerships In News: Union Minister for Ports, Shipping & Waterways and AYUSH Shri Sarbananda Sonowal has underlined the importance of cross-border connectivity among India and developing nations of South-East Asia. On connectivity Extension of the Trilateral Highway to Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam will enable greater connectivity and economic integration of India's northeast with its eastern neighbours.  India has helped construct two key stretches of the 1,360-km trilateral highway in Myanmar, but work on several other sections and the upgrade of nearly 70 bridges has been held up by a variety of factors. This highway will allow access to markets across the ASEAN region and boost people-to-people ties. Emphasised upon setting up of National Transport Facilitation Committees (NTFCs) to facilitate cross-border transportation and trade. The physical connectivity will enable small and medium-sized enterprises in the border areas to explore new business opportunities. On digital and data connectivity India and ASEAN are fast-growing consumer markets -  important for two regions to explore ways to enhance digital connectivity.  The Government of India has been making efforts to turn India into a “Global Data Hub” through various policies and reforms. India’s data centre industry is expected to add 560 MW during 2021-23 leading to a real estate requirement of 6 million sq ft. The industry is expected to grow exponentially to reach 1,007 MW by 2023 from 447 MW News Source: PIB (Mains Focus) GOVERNANCE/ JUDICIARY GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation  Internet Shutdowns Context: In January, 2020, the Supreme Court in Anuradha Bhasin vs Union of India case, held that access to information via the Internet is a fundamental right under the Indian Constitution.  It held that any restriction on Internet access by the Government must be temporary, limited in scope, lawful, necessary and proportionate. Also, Government’s orders restricting Internet access are subject to review by Courts. The expectation was that the Internet suspension will be ordered in only those exceptional situations where there is a public emergency or a threat to public safety Criticisms of Internet Shutdowns  SC directions sidelined: Government has not done enough to give statutory recognition to direction in Anuradha Bashin case. In fact, the year following the SC decision, India saw more instances of Internet shutdown than the year preceding it.  Non-Publication of orders: The internet suspension orders by authorities are not uploaded on the government’s websites, as was mandated by SC in Anuradha Bhasin case.  Hurdles in Judicial recourse: Unless these orders are published, aggrieved citizens cannot approach the court of law.  Trust deficit: Restrictions without publicly disclosed reasons create a trust deficit & undermines public confidence in the Government.  Lack of awareness: The experience with Section 66A of IT Act has shown that if SC decisions are not statutorily recognised, the officials enforce the law incorrectly simply because of a lack of awareness.  Economic Loss: In 2020, the Indian economy suffered losses to the tune of $2.8 billion due to 129 separate instances of Internet suspension, which affected 10.3 million individuals.  Wide-ranging Impact: The harm — economic, psychological, social, and journalistic — caused by such suspensions is more than any benefits of such suspension. Conclusions More faithful compliance with the Supreme Court guidelines on the part of the government is needed to rid ourselves of the tag of the “internet shutdown capital” of the world and fulfil Digital India’s potential Connecting the dots: New Social Media Code Dominance of Big tech Australia’s News Media Bargaining Code GOVERNANCE/ POLITY GS-2: Issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure  GS-2: Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these Local Reservation and its implementation Context: Recently, Jharkhand assembly passed the Jharkhand State Employment of Local Candidates Bill, 2021 becoming the third state in the country, after Andhra Pradesh and Haryana, to pass a law which promises reservations for locals in private jobs. Jharkhand law accords 75% reservation to locals in jobs, with the condition that this will apply to those who earn ₹40,000 or below. Why local reservation? The idea of local reservation is driven by issues of scarcity of employment, and the need for governments to satisfy their domestic electorate What is the government’s rationale in bringing such laws? Needs such policies to achieve substantial equality: With public sector jobs constituting only a minuscule proportion of all jobs, legislators have talked about extending the legal protections to the private sector to really achieve the constitutional mandate of equality for all citizens Legitimate Right to ask Private Sector to share Burden: Since private industries use public infrastructure in many ways (infrastructure, subsidised land & credit, etc) the state has a legitimate right to require them to comply with the reservation policy. Similar Reservation in Education was upheld: A similar argument was made in requiring private schools to comply with the Right to Education Act, which the Supreme Court also upheld. Similar Affirmative Action in other countries: In the US, although there is no statutory requirement for employers to have quotas, courts can order monetary damages and injunctive relief for victims of discrimination(US Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employment discrimination on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, and sex). The Employment Equity Act in Canada also protects minority groups, especially aboriginals from discrimination in federally regulated industries, even in the private sector. States announce reservations for locals, but fail to implement it While it has gained political traction, reservations for locals has met with both legal challenges and industry resistance, and has been barely implemented in any state The Andhra story The Andhra Pradesh Employment of Local Candidates in the Industries and Factories Act was passed in the state assembly first, on July 17, 2019. The law mandates 75% reservation for locals in both existing and upcoming industries The law has provisions that a company be exempted if it writes to the government that it requires specialised manpower not available locally, but this will require an examination by the state industries department. The government has also asked industries what skill sets they need, so that they can train people and supply the requirements as well. Industry is unhappy as it imposes restraints on them and that there are no sops and no rebates for investors. The law has been challenged on the grounds that it violates Article 16(2) and 16(3) of the constitution.  The law continues to be operative, although in an ineffective manner, as there is no stay from the Judiciary, which is yet to give final verdict. The debate in Haryana Haryana government passed a law which provides for 75% reservation in private sector jobs to those having a resident certificate (domicile).  The law will be applicable for a period of 10 years. Legal experts say that the new law would not withstand judicial scrutiny. This is because preference in jobs to the local candidates domiciled in Haryana was in contravention of Article 14 and Article 19(1)(g) of the Constitution. India is one national and there is only one citizenship. To regard a person as an outsider merely because he is not resident of one state goes against the essential integrity of the nation. Conclusion Though the responsibility is with district collectors, no strict implementation is done due to paucity of the staff with the industries/labour departments. This clearly shows that these reservations have barely taken off the ground. Read Related Articles Haryana Job Quota Law Andhra Pradesh Locals First Policy Madhya Pradesh domicile based quota Reservation is not a fundamental right (AIR Spotlight) Spotlight Sep 12: Discussion on India-Australia 2+2 Dialogue and the outcomes - https://youtu.be/InClTB9SywE  INTERNATIONAL/ GOVERNANCE GS-2: International Relations India-Australia In News: Recently, India’s Defence Minister and External Affairs Minister held the inaugural ‘2+2’ talks with their Australian counterparts.  Significance of India-Australia 2+2 meeting India and Australia elevated their bilateral strategic partnership to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in June 2020. These inaugural 2+2 discussions are a cornerstone of the Australia-India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which is founded on a shared commitment to a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.  There is a growing convergence of views on geo-strategic and geo-economic issues backed by a robust people-to-people connection.  Given their common security challenges (terrorism & China’s aggression) and in order to enhance regional security architecture, both countries have intensified bilateral security cooperation.  Both countries have stepped up collaborations through institutions and organisations on many issues in trilateral, plurilateral (QUAD) and multilateral (Ex: UN) formats. Beyond bilateralism, both countries are also entering into partnerships with like-minded countries, including Indonesia, Japan and France, in a trilateral framework. Key Highlights of the meeting A. On maritime security in Indo-Pacific: Maintain an open, free, prosperous and rules-based Indo-Pacific region (in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)). Support India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans’ Initiative Need for renewed efforts by the Quad member countries to expand cooperation in the region. B. On Trade: Emphasis on  Ensuring free flow of trade Adherence to international rules Sustainable economic growth in entire region C. In-depth discussion on bilateral & regional issues: Displayed a common approach to the Afghan crisis  To continue to work together on counter terrorism; countering of radicalization and on the proposed UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. Cooperation in multilateral formats - bilateral trade, vaccines, defence production, community links, maritime security, cyber and climate cooperation Welcomed the launch of the Supply Chain Resilience Initiative by the Trade Ministers of India, Australia and Japan. Agreement was reached to deepen cooperation in vaccine manufacturing and to deliver high quality vaccines to their Indo-Pacific partners (Australia-India Strategic Research Fund) Australia has invited India for participation in future Talisman Sabre exercises which will raise interoperability while both sides explore longer term reciprocal arrangements in logistics support. Renewed support expressed for finalization of bilateral Comprehensive Economic Cooperation Agreement. Pitched for early resolution of the issue of taxation of offshore income of Indian firms under the India Australia Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement. D. Invitation to Australia to engage in India’s growing defence industry Expand military engagements across services Facilitate greater defence information sharing and to work closely for mutual logistic support Invited Australia to engage India’s growing defence industry  To collaborate in co-production and co-development of defence equipment Both the countries have decided to meet at least once every two years in this format to keep up the momentum. Bilateral economic and trade relationship between India and Australia  The India-Australia economic relationship has grown significantly in recent years. India’s growing economic profile and commercial relevance to the Australian economy is recognized, both at the federal and state level in Australia. India’s exports to Australia stood approximately at US$ 4.6 billion (A$6.1 bn) in 2016 while India’s import from Australia during the same period stood at US$ 11 billion (A$14.6 bn).  India’s main exports to Australia are Passenger Motor Vehicle & machinery, Pearls, Gems and Jewellery, Medicaments and Refined Petroleum while India’s major imports are Coal, Non-monetary Gold, Copper, Wool, Fertilizers and Education related services. Areas of concern India and Australia need to resolve old issues that pose a barrier to deeper economic integration.  India has a high tariff for agriculture and dairy products which makes it difficult for Australian exporters to export these items to India.  At the same time, India faces non-tariff barriers and its skilled professionals in the Australian labour market face discrimination. Conclusion It is expected that the ‘2+2’ dialogue will provide substance to this partnership. The Quad has gained momentum in recent months. The time is ripe for these countries to deliberate on a ‘Quad+’ framework.  The geo-political and geo-economic churning in international affairs makes it imperative for India and Australia to forge a partnership guided by principles with a humane approach Connecting the dots: QUAD  Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Reviving SAARC to deal with China Can you answer this question? Collaboration between India and Australia can limit the dangers of the growing geopolitical imbalance in the Indo-Pacific. Comment.  (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 Gujjar Bakerwal tribal communities belong to which of the following states? Manipur  Jammu and Kashmir  Gujarat Rajasthan Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding GST Council It is a statutory body It is chaired by the union Cabinet Secretary Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  Q.3 Who benefits from inflation? Fixed income earners  lenders/Creditors borrowers/debtors  Bank depositors ANSWERS FOR 14th Sept 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 D 2 C 3 A Must Read On early harvest trade deals: Indian Express On role of communities in Health reform: The Tribune On Internet shutdown: The Hindu

Sep 15, 2021 Rapid Revision (RaRe) Series for UPSC

[Day 108]: 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-108 of RaRe Series - Click here To Register - Click here For complete details of the RaRe Series -  Click here

Sep 15, 2021 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

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

Sep 14, 2021 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th September 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Climate change could cause 216 mn to migrate: World Bank Part of: Prelims and GS III - Climate change Context World Bank has recently published Groundswell report. The report examined how the impacts of slow-onset climate change, such as water scarcity, decreasing crop productivity and rising sea levels, could result in millions of “climate migrants” by 2050  Key findings of the report Climate change could push more than 200 million people to leave their homes in the next three decades and create migration hotspots unless urgent action is taken to reduce global emissions and bridge the development gap. The report forecasts up to 216 million people moving within their own countries across the six regions analysed. Those regions are Latin America; North Africa; Sub-Saharan Africa; Eastern Europe and Central Asia; South Asia; and East Asia and the Pacific. In the most climate-friendly scenario, with a low level of emissions and inclusive, sustainable development, the world could still see 44 million people being forced to leave their homes. In South Asia, Bangladesh is particularly affected by flooding and crop failures, accounting for almost half of the predicted climate migrants. Findings regarding African region: Sub-Saharan Africa — the most vulnerable region due to desertification, fragile coastlines and the population’s dependence on agriculture — would see the most migrants, with up to 86 million people moving within national borders. North Africa is predicted to have the largest proportion of climate migrants, with 19 million people moving. The northeastern Tunisia, northwestern Algeria, western and southern Morocco, and the central Atlas foothills will face increased water scarcity. News source: TH  NCLT can’t allow tweaks in a successful resolution plan: SC Part of: Prelims and GS II - Important statutory bodies. Context The Supreme Court on Monday held that the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) cannot permit withdrawals or modifications of a successful resolution plan, once it has been submitted to it after due compliance with the procedural requirements and timelines. Such an open-ended process for further negotiations, would have a negative impact on the corporate debtor, its creditors, and the economy at large as the liquidation value depletes with the passage of time. Background  The judgment relates to the NCLT’s decision to allow Ebix Singapore Private Limited to withdraw its resolution plan submitted for Educomp Solutions. The NCLAT had, however, reversed the NCLT order, saying the latter did not have jurisdiction to permit such withdrawal. The correctness of the NCLAT decision had come up on appeal before the Supreme Court. What is NCLAT? National Company Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT) was constituted under Section 410 of the Companies Act, 2013.  NCLAT is the Appellate Tribunal for hearing appeals against the orders passed by –  National Company Law Tribunal(s) (NCLT) under Section 61 of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (IBC) Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) under Section 202 and Section 211 of IBC.  Competition Commission of India (CCI) – as per the amendment brought to Section 410 of the Companies Act, 2013. What is NCLT? National Company Law Tribunal is a quasi-judicial body in India that adjudicates issues relating to companies in India. Established on 1st June, 2016 (Companies Act, 2013). Formed based on the recommendations of the Justice Eradi Committee. It deals with matters mainly related to companies law and the insolvency law. Term of members: Appointments will be for five years from the date of assumption of charge or till attaining the age of 65 or until further orders. News source: TH  NFRA for single stakeholders’ advisory body Part of: Prelims and GS -III - Economy  Context In order to enhance engagement with stakeholders, the National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) will set up a single stakeholders’ advisory group as well as a research cell to support the group. What is NFRA? National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is an independent regulator to oversee the auditing profession and accounting standards in India under Companies Act 2013.  It came into existence in October 2018.  Powers & Functions: NFRA is responsible for recommending accounting and auditing policies and standards in the country, undertaking investigations, and imposing sanctions against defaulting auditors and audit firms in the form of monetary penalties and debarment from practice for up to 10 years. It can probe listed companies and those unlisted public companies having paid-up capital of no less than Rs 500 crore or annual turnover of no less than Rs 1,000 crore. (while ICAI retains jurisdiction of small listed companies). It can even investigate professional misconduct committed by members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) for prescribed classes of body corporate or persons. NFRA consists of one chairman, three full-time members and one secretary. News source: TH  About NCLT and ITAT Part of: Prelims and GS II - Important statutory bodies. Context The government has appointed 31 people as judicial, technical and accountant members at the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) and the Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT). Recently, the Supreme Court had flagged concerns about vacancies in various tribunals. Background: There are around 250 posts lying vacant at various key tribunals and appellate tribunals such as the NCLT, the DRT, the TDSAT and the SAT. About NCLT: It is a quasi-judicial body in India that adjudicates issues relating to companies in India. Established on 1st June, 2016 (Companies Act, 2013). Formed based on the recommendations of the Justice Eradi Committee. It deals with matters mainly related to companies law and the insolvency law. Term of members: Appointments will be for five years from the date of assumption of charge or till attaining the age of 65 or until further orders. About ITAT: It deals with income tax matters. It is a statutory body in the field of direct taxes and its orders are accepted as final, on findings of fact. ITAT was the first Tribunal to be created on 25th January, 1941 and is also known as ‘Mother Tribunal’. With a view to ensuring the highest degree of independence of the ITAT, it functions under the Department of Legal Affairs in the Ministry of Law and Justice and is kept away from any kind of control by the Ministry of Finance. The orders passed by the ITAT can be subjected to appellate challenge, on substantial questions of law, before the respective High Court Thamirabarani Civilisation: Tamil Nadu Part of: Prelims and GS I - Ancient Indian History Context The Thamirabarani civilisation in Tamil Nadu is at least 3,200 years old, reveals carbon dating done on organic material retrieved from archeological excavations in Sivakalai, Thoothukudi district. Carbon Dating: The determination of the age or date of organic matter from the relative proportions of the carbon isotopes carbon-12 and carbon-14 that it contains. About Thamirabarani River The shortest river in the state (Tamil Nadu), the Thamirabarani starts in Pothigai hills of the Western Ghats in the Ambasamudram taluk, flows through Tirunelveli and Thoothukudi districts and empties at Korkai (Tirunelveli district) into the Gulf of Mannar (Bay of Bengal). Significance/Consequence of the Findings: It could lead to evidence that there was a city civilisation (Porunai River (Thamirabarani) civilization) in south India as long back as 3,200 years ago, the later part of the Indus Valley Civilisation. Also, archaeological excavations would be carried out in other States and countries in search of Tamil roots.  In the first phase, studies would be undertaken at the ancient port of Muziris (Pattanam) in Kerala, to establish the ancientness and culture of the Chera empire. Research would be conducted at Quseir al-Qadim and Pernica Anekke in Egypt, which were once part of the Roman empire, as well as in Khor Rori in Oman, to establish the Tamils’ trade relations with these countries. Potsherds bearing Tamil scripts have been found in these countries. Studies would also be conducted in Southeast Asian countries, such as Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam, where King Rajendra Chola had established supremacy. Do you know? The three ruling houses of Tamil India, the Pandyas, Cheras, and Cholas, fought for supremacy of southern India and Sri Lanka.  These dynasties promoted early literature on the Indian subcontinent and built important Hindu temples. Sangam literature, which was written over a period of six centuries (3rd BCE – 3rd CE) contains references to various Chola, Chera and Pandya kings. 128th anniversary of the historic Chicago address of Swami Vivekananda Part of: Prelims and GS I - Modern Indian history Context On September 11, 1893, Swami Vivekananda delivered his famed speech at the ‘Parliament of the World’s Religions’, garnering a full two minute standing ovation and the moniker of ‘cyclonic monk of India’ . This year marked the 128th anniversary of the historic Chicago Address of Swami Vivekananda. What is the Significance of this event? The Chicago address had dwelt at length on Hinduism and Indian culture, and his words continue to remain resonant till date. He became popular in the western world after his famous speech at the World’s Parliament of Religions. He was considered a major force in the revival of Hinduism in India and bringing it to the status of major world religion in the late 19th century. His address in the World “Parliament of Religions” at Chicago in 1893 drew the world’s attention to the ancient Indian philosophy of Vedanta. About Swami Vivekananda: He was a true luminary, credited with enlightening the western world about Hinduism. He was an ardent disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramahansa and a major force in the revival of Hinduism in India. He pushed for national integration in colonial India, and his famous speech remains as the one that he gave in Chicago in 1893 (Parliament of the World Religions). In 1984 the Government of India declared that 12 January, the birthday of Swami Vivekananda, will be celebrated as National Youth Day. Subramaniya Bharathiyar Part of: Prelims and GS I - Indian Culture Context Indian Vice-President recently paid homage to Subramania Bharati to mark the death centenary of the poet and freedom fighter. About Subramaniya Bharathi: Born on 11th December 1882, in Ettayapuram village of Tirunelveli District in Tamil Nadu. He was a poet, freedom fighter and social reformer from Tamil Nadu. He was known as Mahakavi Bharathiyar. His songs on nationalism and freedom of India helped to rally the masses to support the Indian Independence Movement in Tamil Nadu. Literary works: “Kannan Pattu” “Nilavum Vanminum Katrum” “Panchali Sabatam” “Kuyil Pattu”. He published the sensational “Sudesa Geethangal” in 1908. Sometime in mid-1908, Bharati began to serialise Gnanaratham in his political weekly, India. In 1949, he became the first poet whose works were nationalised by the state government. Miscellaneous Manipur Kukis The Kuki tribe in Manipur on Monday observed the 28th anniversary of the massacre of Kuki civilians in Manipur, allegedly by an armed Naga group. The Kuki people are an ethnic group native to the Mizo Hills (formerly Lushai), a mountainous region in the southeastern part of Mizoram in India. The Kuki constitute one of several hill tribes within India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.  In northeast India, they are present in all states except Arunachal Pradesh. Some fifty tribes of Kuki peoples in India are recognised as scheduled tribes, based on the dialect spoken by that particular Kuki community as well as their region of origin. News source: TH  (News from PIB) India–Africa Defence Dialogue Part of: GS-Prelims and GS – II – International Relations  In News: India has proposed to institutionalise the India Africa Defence Dialogue during successive DefExpos to be held once every two years.  Institutionalisation of the India Africa Defence Dialogue will help building on the existing partnerships between African countries & India and to explore new areas of convergence for mutual engagements including areas like capacity building, training, cyber security, maritime security and counter terrorism. Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses to be knowledge partner Raksha Mantri to host Defence Ministers of African nations in next India–Africa Defence Dialogue on sidelines of DefExpo 2022 Background: India and Africa share a close and historical relationship. The foundation of India–Africa defence relations are based on the two guiding principles namely ‘SAGAR’, Security and Growth for All in the Region’ and ‘Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam’, The World is One Family. Note: ‘Lucknow Declaration’: A Joint Declaration between India and Africa was adopted after conclusion of first-ever India Africa Defence Ministers Conclave (IADMC) News Source: PIB Climate Action and Finance Mobilization Dialogue (CAFMD)  Part of: Prelims and GS – II – International Relations  In News: India and the United States of America (USA) has launched the “Climate Action and Finance Mobilization Dialogue (CAFMD)”. The CAFMD is one of the two tracks of the India-U.S. Climate and Clean Energy Agenda 2030 partnership launched at the Leaders' Summit on Climate in April 2021, by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and US President Mr. Joseph Biden. India and the USA, will engage for a constructive engagement under the “India-US Climate and Clean Energy Agenda 2030 Partnership” .These platforms provide greater opportunities for working together for climate actions and emphasized that India stands committed to working with the US on Clean Energy. The dialogue will not only strengthen India-US bilateral cooperation on climate and environment but will also help to demonstrate how the world can align swift climate action with inclusive and resilient economic development, taking into account national circumstances and sustainable development priorities. Lauded India’s leadership role in demonstrating how economic development and clean energy can go hand in hand and stated that urgent Global Climate Action is the need of the hour. The launch was preceded by a bilateral meet where both sides discussed at length a wide range of climate issues relating to COP26, Climate Ambition, Climate Finance, Global Climate Initiatives including International Solar Alliance (ISA), Agriculture Innovation Mission for Climate (AIM4C). News Source: PIB SVAMITVA Scheme Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation In News: Inauguration of a National Meet on SVAMITVA Scheme that would provide cross-learning platform for States in respect of processes of SVAMITVA Scheme The acronym SVAMITA stands for Survey of Villages and Mapping with Improvised Technology in Village Areas.  It is a Central Sector Scheme (100% by Union Government) implemented by Union Ministry of Panchayat Raj It is aimed at “providing ‘record of rights’ to village household owners possessing houses in inhabited rural areas in villages and issuance of property cards to the property owners.” The government aims to provide such property cards to each household in the next three to four years in every village across the country. The plan is to survey all rural properties using drones and prepare GIS based maps for each village. News Source: PIB (Mains Focus) ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.  Dilemma of Monetary Policy Context: In the monetary policy resolution announced on August 6, 2021, the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) decided to keep the policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 4 per cent. What is the dilemma of MPC? The repo rate reverse repo rate and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate are all kept unchanged. RBI has also decided to continue with the accommodative monetary policy stance till the economy recovers from the shock of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, there was some divergence of opinion among the MPC members who argued against the accommodative stance of the MPC because the projected inflation is beyond the target inflation rate (2%-6%). This also led to comments as to whether the RBI has deviated from its mandate of flexible inflation targeting (FIT) and started emphasising growth over inflation. Admittedly, the task of the central bank is to routinely do this tightrope walk, balancing growth and inflation (the dilemma). Depending upon whether inflation is triggered by demand-pull or cost-push factors, an appropriate decision is taken. What are the cost-push factors for Inflation? There are reasons to believe that the inflation faced by India currently is more of a supply-side problem. Due to long and uneven lockdown, the supply chains of the country have got negatively affected.  At the same time, due to several reasons, international commodity prices are going up. This is seen in high prices of fuels, including crude oil and coal, metals like copper, aluminium and steel, cotton and other industrial inputs. Global container and semiconductor shortages are also adding to the problems. An uneven and deficient monsoon may also add to this price pressure of food products.  The combination of all these factors has led to increase in the prices of goods & services.  Is there a demand-pull inflation? Though the industrial production has shown a remarkable rate of growth on a year-on-year basis, but it was still 13.9 per cent below its May 2019 level.  The RBI OBICUS survey of the manufacturing sector also indicates that the aggregate capacity utilisation is still below 70 per cent in Q4:2020-21.  The latest quarterly GDP statistics shows that in real terms, many industrial and services sub-sectors have not yet reached the pre-Covid production levels. All the above shows that it is unlikely that there is a demand pressure on the economy.  If there was demand-pull inflation, then it needs to be suppressed using higher interest rates. This is currently not the case in India, hence no need for rate hike. Conclusion When inflation originates from the supply side, it will be very difficult to contain it by pushing up the rate of interest. In fact, if the interest rate is raised, then cost of borrowing goes up which may lead to further price rise. Since the argument for demand-pull inflation is weak, the RBI’s decision to keep the interest rate unchanged so as to boost growth seems to be the right decision. Connecting the dots: Monetary Policy Committee Perils of Inflation Targeting ENVIRONMENT GS-3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation  Permafrost and Pandemic Context: The latest IPCC report has warned that increasing global warming will result in reductions in Arctic permafrost which is expected to release greenhouse gases like methane and carbon dioxide. What is Permafrost? It is defined as ground (soil, rock and any included ice or organic material) that remains at or below zero degree Celsius for at least two consecutive years. Permafrost is spread across an area of over 23 million square kilometers, covering about 15% of the land area of the globe. What will be the immediate effects as permafrost melts due to increasing global temperatures? Physical Infrastructure in Danger: The first impacts that are very rapid will affect countries where roads or buildings were constructed on permafrost.  The Russian railways are an example.  In the northwest of Canada, there is a short section of the road where it has been necessary to chill the ground (costing $4 million for 500m) to make the foundation of the road colder than it is, in order to preserve the permafrost.  Greenhouse Gas Emission: If the Permafrost ground begins to thaw (melt), the organic materials frozen will become available for microbiota to break down. In some environments, the biota will release carbon dioxide and methane. What is the potential of GHG emission from Permafrost thaw? The total quantity of carbon that is now buried in the permafrost is estimated at about 1500 billion tonnes and the top three meters of the ground has about 1000 billion tonnes. The world currently emits into the atmosphere, approximately 10 billion tonnes of carbon a year.  So, if the permafrost thaws and releases even only one per cent of the frozen carbon in any one year, it can nullify the measures taken by world to control industrial emissions. So, do we need more studies to understand these emissions that can happen? Yes, we do. The majority of the effort so far has been on estimating how much carbon is in the permafrost. That’s where the scientific effort has been.  Currently, there is some evidence, that some permafrost regions have changed from being a carbon storehouse to being places that are net emitters of carbon. Another thing, which is to be studied is the increase in the number of forest fires. In 2021 Russia witnessed a forest fire whose total area was the size of Portugal.  Usually, after a fire, we expect the forest to grow back in the next 50 years to 60 years. This restores the carbon stock in the ecosystem.  But in the tundra, the peat is where the organic material is and this takes a very long time to accumulate. So if we burn peat and release it into the atmosphere, then it will take centuries to restore that carbon stock at ground level. So that’s another problem which has to be looked into. Can thawing Permafrost release new bacteria or viruses? Can it cause another pandemic? The answer is that permafrost has many secrets. Recently, mammoths were found in the permafrost in Russia.  And some of these mammoth carcasses when they begin to degrade again may reveal bacteria that were frozen thousands of years ago. These bacteria & viruses may cause surprises  When the permafrost was formed thousands of years ago, there weren’t many humans who lived in that region which was necessarily very cold. However, the environment now is so much more suitable than during the Ice Age for not just human life, but also the evolution or development of viruses and bacteria.  Connecting the dots: IPCC’s report on Climate Change & India  Paris Climate Deal: India’s Progress, Pandemic and Challenges (Vice President’s Address) GS-II: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation Vice President’s Remarks A. Called upon large institutions and government organisations to adopt sustainable energy practices in their operations by using renewable energy – Suggested greater adoption of rooftop solar plants in industries and big establishments like universities and government buildings and godowns Appealed to all states and local bodies to consider adopting the model building by-laws for new buildings Advocated the need to make solar rooftop plants, solar water heaters and rainwater harvesting mandatory for large buildings and government organisations, along with ensuring sufficient light and ventilation. Highlighting the significance of rooftop solar plants in continuing the momentum of India’s ‘energy transition’, he observed that rooftop plants use empty areas on buildings, generate power close to the point of consumption and reduce transmission losses.  Called for State, Central and UT governments to work together as Team India to popularise the tapping of solar energy and bring about greater awareness among people on the benefits of installing solar panels on their rooftops – massive campaigns to publicize the subsidy programmes for solar rooftop systems and the resultant electricity savings. Stressed the importance of ventilation and air circulation in buildings: Sunlight is a natural disinfectant. Our ancestors understood this – it reflected in their planning and construction of houses. B. Urged youth to develop a deeper understanding of India’s timeless traditions and rich cultural heritage and apply various dimensions of India's cultural genius to activities in contemporary life – Referring to Sri Aurobindo’s stress on India's rich spiritual tradition and cultural heritage, he said that we need to recapture this creative spirit to soar higher and scale new heights as a nation We should forge our collective will to eradicate social evils and create a truly egalitarian society.  Said that the great revolutionary yogi, poet and philosopher continues to be an eternal inspiration for humanity through his vision for world unity, peace and spiritual upliftment. C. If we have to achieve the inclusive ideals of our constitution, then the role of women in the judiciary also has to be increased – Women in Judiciary:  Referring to the Allahabad High Court’s historic decision to enroll India's first woman lawyer, Ms. Cornelia Sorabji in 1921, the President termed that decision a forward-looking decision in the direction of women empowerment.  Last month, a new history was created of the women’s participation in the judiciary with the appointment of nine judges, including three women judges, in the Supreme Court.  The presence of four women judges out of the total 33 judges appointed in the Supreme Court is the highest ever in the history of the judiciary.  At present the total strength of women judges in the Supreme Court and High Courts together is less than 12 per cent. Establishment of a truly just society would be possible only when the participation of women increases in all areas including the judiciary.  Judiciary of India Everyone has expectations from the judiciary, yet, generally people hesitate in taking the help of the courts. This situation needs to be changed in order to further increase the confidence of the people in the judiciary.  It is the responsibility of all of us that - everyone gets justice in time, justice system should be less expensive, decisions should be in the language understood by the common man, and especially women and weaker sections should get justice in the judicial process. This would be possible only when all stakeholders associated with the judicial system bring necessary changes in their thinking and work culture and become sensitive. It is the need of the hour to continuously strive on many aspects, from expediting the disposal of pending cases to increasing the efficiency of the Subordinate Judiciary in order to boost the confidence of general public in the judiciary.  Our judicial process would be strengthened with the arrangement of adequate facilities for the Subordinate Judiciary, increasing the number of working judges and providing enough resources as per the provisions of the budget.  World class legal education is one of the priorities of our society and country. It is relatively easy for any institution to establish all the systems in a well thought out manner at the very beginning. Once the system is created, the process of improving it becomes complicated.  D. Called upon states to promote the setting up of manufacturing plants for solar PV cells and modules to accelerate their production in India Stressed upon the importance of ‘Atma Nirbharta’ in solar energy through active participation of the states The lack of a trained force is a bottleneck in our exponential growth in the sector. He suggested investing in training and upskilling the workforce in adopting the latest technologies and cited the instance of the scheme of ‘Surya Mitras’. Suggested exploring alternative avenues to install ground-mounted PV systems. Rooftop-mounted solar plants are a sustainable option and need to be encouraged. Called upon universities to proactively take up research and projects which have a component of renewable energy. Advised educational institutions to encourage students to take up final year projects and internships in the field of renewable energy and in material sciences. This will not only improve their employment prospects but will also help in promoting innovations and improvements in our domestic solar industry.  E. An enabling ecosystem for R&D is must for India to become a developed nation  Urged educational institutions to have an increased interface with the industry to promote result-oriented research that addresses contemporary challenges such as climate change, pollution, health and poverty. It is the cutting-edge research in science, technology and other fields that puts developed countries ahead of the rest. He asked the students to conduct socially relevant research and come up with out-of-box ideas to make the nation strong and bring prosperity and happiness in people’s lives. Leadership teams of 45% start-ups have a woman entrepreneur; he hoped that this healthy trend will inspire more women to become entrepreneurs. Emphasizing the need to provide equal opportunities for women, he called for ending artificial barriers created in the name of caste, religion and gender. You must prepare a generation to see that all kinds of social discriminations are put to an end. Mentioning several government measures to support start-ups such as broadening the definition, simplifying regulations and providing tax exemptions, he exhorted the industry to also come forward and support young entrepreneurs by handholding, providing funds and incubating their ventures. Improved Industry-Academia Partnership has to be stepped up to give a further fillip in this direction. News Source: PIB, PIB, PIB (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 Kuki tribes are present in which of the following states? Manipur  Mizoram  Arunachal Pradesh  Both (a) and (b) Q.2 Consider the following statements: The Competition Act, 2002 regulates combinations (acquisition, acquiring of control and Merger and acquisition), which causes or likely to cause an appreciable adverse effect on competition within India. Competition Commission of India (CCI) is responsible for enforcing The Competition Act, 2002 throughout India. 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 National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA): It can probe listed companies and those unlisted public companies having paid-up capital of no less than Rs 500 crore or annual turnover of no less than Rs 1,000 crore. It cannot investigate professional misconduct committed by members of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI). Which of the above is or are correct?  1 only  2 only  Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  ANSWERS FOR 13th Sept 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 B 2 A 3 B Must Read On Financial Inclusion: Indian Express On Shanghai Cooperation Organisation: Indian Express On US-China relations: The Hindu