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UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 24th February 2021

ARCHIVES Daily CSAT Practice Test Everyday 5 Questions from Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension will be covered from Monday to Saturday. Make the best use of the initiative. All the best! To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE 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

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2021 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 24th February 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. We will make sure, in the next 4 months not a single day is wasted. All your energies are channelized in the right direction. Trust us! This will make a huge difference in your results this time, provided that you follow this plan sincerely every day without fail. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE 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

SYNOPSIS [19th February,2021] Day 35: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE   SYNOPSIS [19th February,2021] Day 35: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. Examine the factors that shape the aptitude of a person. Approach Candidates are expected to explain the term aptitude and then examine the factors that shape aptitude of a person.  Introduction Aptitude is a component of competency to do a certain kind of work at a certain level, which can also be considered talent. It is basically the ability to deal with aspects of environment and the natural ability to acquire skill in some specific field. Body Aptitude is a natural talent or inborn ability that makes it easier for us to learn or do certain things/tasks. For instance, the ability to paint, produce music, or learn languages, ability to lead and perform administrative functions, etc. Learning some skills comes more easily to some people and others require greater effort and practice. When we say that someone is ‘gifted’ or has a talent, it means he/she has aptitude for that particular skill/action. Let us examine the factors that shape the aptitude of person – Heredity: Some characteristics of our aptitude are genetic, which we inherit. Some of the traits like physical height, slimness, dexterity, intellectual capacity, ability to learn, logical power, etc. are also inherited. All these have a significant influence on person’s aptitude. For example Michael Phelps' great swimming aptitude is a combination of skill, physical ability, and hard work. Many experts say that Michael's body was designed for swimming. He has a very long torso, long arms, big feet, and short legs for his height. Family background: The socio-economic status of the family, education of the parents, and other family members also shape aptitude of individual to a considerable extent. In fact, family members themselves try to influence the behaviour of children in a desperate attempt to personify their own aptitude and skills. Nature of people with whom we interact and get inspired: People influence each other and such influences shape the personality. For this reason, we often say that one’s personality is constantly evolving and is shaped throughout one’s life. Great leaders and personality for example Dr. Abdul Kalam influence children’s to develop scientific aptitude and nurture and pursue there career.  Culture: Culture shapes our personal values and predispositions. It is the unique characteristic of a social group. The values and norms shared by its member’s sets it apart from other social groups. The essence of culture is the collective programming of the mind. This social apparatus shapes our aptitude. Personal interest: Interest is something that attracts us without the need to have any particular skill for a thing. A person may be interested in a particular activity, job or training, but may not have the potential/aptitude to perform well in that particular area and achieve success. For example, one may have an intense interest in music, but not enough ability to succeed in a career as a performer. Innate intelligence: Intelligence is capacity for learning, reasoning, understanding, and similar forms of mental activity. It is the ability to learn and apply skills. On the other hand, aptitude is specific ability of a person to master a skill. However, aptitude requires a degree of intelligence to do the job well. Skill set: Skill is the knowledge or ability to perform a given task with ease and precision, aptitude on the other hand, denotes the potential to get skilled if training is done. While skills are the abilities that can be acquired by way of reading, observation, practice, and training, aptitude is inborn and unique. Conclusion With the advent of the new public administration and increasing diversity in the administrative field, an administrator needs to adorn both physical and mental aptitude. He should have both General Mental Ability (basic thinking capacity and learning ability to perform any intellectual task) as well as desired value system of public administration to perform his duty, not only efficiently, but also effectively. 2. What do you understand by the term ‘bureaucratic red-tape’? Why is it an impediment to good governance? Explain.  Approach  Candidate is required to define bureaucratic red tapism with suitable examples and its effect in implementing effective governance. Some examples of good governance can be stated in the later part. Introduction Red tape is a derisive term for excessive regulation or rigid conformity to formal rules that is considered redundant or bureaucratic and hinders or prevents action or decision-making. It is usually applied to government, but can also be applied to other organisations like corporations. Body RED tape generally includes the filling out of seemingly unnecessary paperwork, obtaining of unnecessary licenses, having multiple people or committees approve a decision and various low-level rules that make conducting one’s affairs slower and/or more difficult. Where did red-tapism originate from? The English practice of binding documents and official papers with red tape was popularised in the writings of Thomas Carlyle protesting against official inertia with expressions like "Little other than a red tape Talking-machine, and unhappy Bag of Parliamentary Eloquence." To this day most barristers’ briefs are tied in a pink coloured ribbon known as red tape. The colorful term used to refer to the seemingly endless parade of paperwork that accompanies many official matters got its start back in old England. Thick legal documents were bound or tied with red cloth tape. So when someone spoke of cutting through the red tape, they meant it in a very literal sense. Despite its genuine economic progress, though, India remained a chaotic and impoverished place: largely divided by religion and caste, captive to the whims of corrupt local officials and power brokers, hamstrung by a parochial bureaucracy that was resistant to change.” These are the words of President Barak Obama about Indian red tape. How red tape is impediment to good governance? Citizen satisfaction: Red tape indeed negatively affects citizen satisfaction. Citizens remain dissatisfied due to delayed government processing and cost associated with it. Most of the time citizen’s problems remain unresolved due to red Tapism, leading to a sense of loss of trust in the government’s process. Scheme implementation: Every new governmental scheme gets roadblocks in terms of red Tapism that eventually kills the larger objective by which it was launched. Delayed release of funds, lack of proper monitoring etc. are common associated issues attached to Red Tapism that make policies ineffective. Corruption: A World Bank study found that the higher the level of red Tapism, the higher the level of corruption. Bureaucracy invariably breeds corruption and lowers growth by complicating the normal flow of businesses. Paying a bribe to speed up the handling of the procedure is a typical example of Red Tapism associated corruption. Increased cost of doing business: Red tape is costly, not just in time and money spent filling out forms but also in terms of reduced productivity and innovation in business. This is particularly burdensome to smaller businesses and may even discourage people from starting up a new business. Governance: Due to Red Tapism variable enforcement of contracts and delayed administration lead to delayed justice, especially to the poor. The burden of red tape requirements prevent many to enjoy their rights due to delayed governance and delayed distribution of welfare measures. For example, delayed wage payments under MGNREGA impact timely benefits to poor. How to reduce red tapism? Reforming laws: Reducing administrative burdens should be a part of making good laws. This objective also contributes to making administrative cultures more responsible and service-oriented. For example, Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code has helped in reducing Red Tapism regarding insolvency of a business unit, enhancing overall business sentiments. Further many redundant laws have been scrapped, making India achieving a 63rd spot in World Bank’s Ease of doing business. Reduce the paperwork: Computers have already made many of the government services faster. It is a way forward to decrease the red tape. Capacity building in IT and communications is required at all the levels of the government, top to bottom. For example, the government has launched National Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency known as Invest India that helps investors looking for investment, to reduce red Tapism. Skill development: There are officials who are not skilled enough to make government processing faster. It is important to train them properly on the subjects and appoint skilled people. Incentives: A lot of government employees at the lower level (Group-C and Group D) are underpaid. They find no incentive to work efficiently. Efforts must be made to honour workers for their good work and punishing for not achieving timely efficiency. Conclusion Red Tapism hinders good governance and the country’s economic progress. It leads to a culture of corruption and inefficiency. Efforts must be made to make rules and regulations simple with emphasis on reducing delays in government work culture. 3. Explain the concept of integrity and its significance in civil services. Approach  The question is asking you to explain it requires from you to give a clear account as to How/Why something happens. Introduction  Integrity requires a self-discipline and will power capable of resisting the temptation. Integrity requires self-discipline and will power capable of resisting temptation and compels us to be socially conscious and to welcome both personal and professional responsibility. Its values encourage us to be honest in all our dealings and committed to a lifelong search for truth and justice. Body THE CONCEPT OF INTEGRITY – Integrity is a personal choice, an uncompromising and consistent commitment to honour moral, ethical, spiritual and artistic values and principles. Its priceless reward is peace of mind and true dignity. There’s one proviso, no one can guarantee that his or her particular version of integrity is actually sound and true, and not misguided. Integrity includes Soundness of moral principles, Uprightness, Honesty and sincerity, Synchronization between one’s thought, speech and action and Loyalty to rational principles. IT’S SIGNIFICANCE IN CIVIL SERVICES – Integrity is the most applicable and most crucial quality to fight against all the corruptions in public administration. It is not only beneficial for the nations but also it ensures the civil servants’ sincerity towards their job. The types of actions they take and the way they deal with the corruption has a direct impact on the people of India. Its significance includes – Civil servants have to set out highest standards of integrity and morality. This requires self-sacrifice a concept that rises above individualism and ‘hedonism’ to create an environment of public duty among the civil servants. An exemplary civil servant is not simply one who obeys the laws and behaves within the confines of law but is also one who strives for a moral government. Integrity is also important because the civil servants are serving the people which requires the work to be done not only fairly but also efficiently and flawlessly. The civil servants are engaged in serving public and their affairs and comply with the law of the land too. They work to administer justice with integrity. Integrity requires in a civil servant to incorporate the values of honesty, sympathy empathy, compassion, fairness, self-control and duty so that a civil servant will be able to uphold high personal and professional standards in all circumstances. ‘Honesty’ requires ‘truthfulness’, freedom from deception and fraud, fair and straight forward conduct. Sympathy enables a person to be deeply affected and concerned about the well beings of others, to imagine their suffering and be moved by their experience of others especially people who need assistance compassion is a form of spirituality, a way of living and walking through life. To deal with public and their affairs fairly, efficiently and sensitively to the best of his abilities integrity in nature is important. It ensures that civil servant do not misuse his/her official position to further his private interest for instance taking bribe by police to file an FIR. It is important for good governance and to prevent failures which may occur due to resistance to accountability and transparency. A person of integrity does his/her duties with conscience. E.g., Policeman ordered to fire on unarmed peaceful protestors. Honest policeman will obey the order. Policeman of integrity, will refuse to fire. Conclusion Integrity in civil service is all about earning and sustaining the people's trust by serving and working for them transparently and flawlessly. Achieving the goal and accomplishment of the mission effectively without committing any type of illegal activities should be the civil servants' only goal. Thus, integrity is critical in civil services to ensure good governance and allow a civil servant to perform his/her duties with honesty and allow better administration. What is needed is to ensure integrity through training and proper vigilance. 4. In your opinion, what should be the key indicators for measuring the professional excellence of a civil servant? Discuss. Approach Students are expected to mention the major assessment aspects to judge the performance of the civil servant. He should prioritize each indicator based on his understanding and how the parameter adds up to infuse excellence in the performance of the Civil Servant. Main parameter’s like transparency, accountability and strict adherence to rule of law are some key indicators. Introduction The civil service is a collective term for a sector of government composed mainly of career civil servants hired on professional merit rather than appointed or elected, whose institutional tenure typically survives transitions of political leadership. A civil servant is a person employed in the public sector by a government department or agency or public sector undertakings. Civil servants work for central government and state governments, & answer to the government, not a political party.  The extent of civil servants of a state as part of the "civil service" varies from country to country. Civil servants must follow certain norms, rules and As an administrator, one should make sure that the highest standard of quality in governmental decisions and activities and not negotiate with values just for others convenience or satisfaction. Body Key indicators for measuring the professional excellence of a civil servant – Utilitarianism is a general ethical theory that marks the point of right and wrong completely based on the consequences of one’s action or policy. Furthermore, it can also be considered as the action or policy has taken into account the interests of others. Hence, a civil servant should follow the Principle of Utilitarianism and ensure that the decisions taken should lead to the greatest good for the country and its maximum people. Being a part of the governmental machinery, a civil servant should be resilient and adapt to any changes in the system, operation, or structure yet endure the ethical norms of conduct. There would be tricky circumstances during the tenure that needs to be solved within limited time limits. Under these situations a civil servant should act shrewdly and should be decisive in approach that needs quick thinking, analysing all available possibilities and potential outcome of them and should act accordingly after a general consent. The civil servant is in a unique position — he or she is bound by the machination of a political master. He has to deliver to unknown faces. One has to see through the veils, as there are many masks people wear. For a public servant, this is very important — that they understand which mask they are speaking to. If you understand that, it solves a lot of mysteries and heartbreak. The next steps are imagination, hard work, teamwork and an open mind. Seeing the big picture is about having an in-depth understanding and knowledge of how your role fits with and supports organisational objectives and the wider public needs and the national interest. For all staff, it is about focusing your contribution on the activities which will meet Civil Service goals and deliver the greatest value. For leaders, it is about scanning the political context and taking account of wider impacts to develop long term implementation strategies that maximise opportunities to add value to the citizen and support economic, sustainable growth. Effectiveness in this area is having a strong focus on continuous learning for oneself, others and the organisation. For all staff, it’s being open to learning, about keeping one’s own knowledge and skill set current and evolving. For leaders, it’s about investing in the capabilities of our people, to be effective now and in the future as well as giving clear, honest feedback and supporting teams to succeed. It’s also about creating a learning and knowledge culture across the organisation to inform future plans and transformational change. Transparency is known as the right and means to observe the process of decision making. When it comes to administration transparency means of holding public officials accountable and fighting corruption. As a civil servant,  he should function should be transparent that it is easy to see what actions are performed. As a civil servant having integrity means doing the right thing in a reliable way with the quality of being honest and having strong moral principles that do not waver. He requires firm adherence to a code of particular moral or artistic values, incorruptibility, soundness, and quality or state of being complete or undivided. Conclusion Civil Servants are the bedrock of the entire country, therefore the most effective way of the civil servant is to be honest, transparent and accountable at all stages during the course of his tenure. Even more important is to be resilient, decisive and kind to the public at large. With a mature head on the shoulders, it is important that the civil servant holds forte over his values, consolidates them and manages his team well to perform and serve with excellence. There is a strong need for a robust performance management system to be introduced in the government covering all organizations and different levels of functionaries. Time has also come to look at a paradigm shift in ensuring accountability by introducing concepts like service agreements and bringing in the tools of social accountability to involve the citizen also in appraising the performance. The alignment between individual performance and organizational goal is also of utmost importance by introducing an appropriate set of performance indicators. Measuring performance is useful only when it translates into action. Performance management tools by themselves do not create sustained high performance. It is important to create an environment conducive for effective and efficient performance with a system of rewards and punishment, besides building capacity at all levels of government to get results. 5. Examine the concept of ‘internationalism’? Why is it important in the current global context? Approach We need to define both the concept of ‘nationalism’ and ‘patriotism’. Further, we need to list down differences between them through various dimensions and also provide suitable example to mentioned dimensions. Introduction  Nationalism and patriotism both show the relationship of an individual towards his or her nation. Mostly they are used interchangeably and are considered similar. However, there is a vast difference between nationalism and patriotism. Body Nationalism Patriotism Nationalism or rashtravaad is an ideology based on the premise that an individual's loyalty and devotion to one's country should come above the interests and opinions of other citizens or the interests of a certain group of citizens. Feelings of nationalism though are positive for one’s own nation but are based on distrust, disapproval, hate, dislike, ignorance, etc. for others. Nationalism involves feeling of rivalry and a sense of superiority for one’s nation, its culture, etc. As compared to others. E.g.: Western culture dominance and sense of superiority over other cultures.  Nationalist tend to discourage almost any kind of criticism even at the cost of continuing regressive socio-economic and political practices. E.g.: Caste, racial, gender etc. like discriminatory practices are continued with certain cultural backing.   Nationalism many a times creates difficulties for nation’s foreign policy. Balancing act is seen as weakness and tough stand is encouraged. E.g.: Rhetoric created during Indo-Pak, Indo-China conflicts drag resolution process. Nationalist try to justify shortcomings and have tendency of blaming others for any deficiencies in the nation. E.g.: Blaming foreign invasions, British rule, etc. for current socio-economic and political issues. Nationalism is mostly revealed as against to specific nation and has external influence in its manifestation. E.g.: Indian nationalism is said to be revealed only on two instances Indo-Pak cricket match and War.  Nationalism puts increased emphasis on the culture, tradition, heritage, etc. A patriotism, deshbhakti or watanparasti is the love for the nation to the extent of willingness to sacrifice for the cause of the nation. Feelings of patriotism are based on the positive values the country embraces—like freedom, justice, and equality.  Patriotism does not involve feeling sense of rivalry and superiority against the other. E.g.: India’s sense of pride in joint family system, Yoga, Ayurveda, etc. Patriotism accommodates criticism about one’s nation and promotes introspection to enable reforms. E.g.: Social reform movements against sati, child marriage. Current civil liberty movements for LGBTQ. Patriotism enhances both hard and soft power of the nation’s foreign policy. E.g.: Enables to have friendly relations with all nations like US, Israel, Russia, Iran, etc. It encourages acceptance of failures and encourage measures to eliminate shortcomings of a nation.  It is more inclusive and is mostly internal feeling.   Patriotism lays more emphasis on the values and beliefs of a nation. E.g.: Indian principles like Vasudeva Kutumbakam, Jagat Guru etc. accommodate aspirations of global community along with national aspirations.  Nationalism is taken in negative sense in today’s times however; it is needed in healthy amount to sustain pride, confidence, etc. of a nation. Absence of nationalism made certain Indian people think everything Indian is inferior. While, sometime patriotism is considered as symbol of weakness, where nation is influenced by others due to its inability assert itself.  Conclusion Only few countries can possibly survive and prosper without some degree of nationalist and patriotic feelings among their people. A love of country and shared pride bring the people together and help them in enduring challenges. 

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 23rd February 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) ‘Population Versus Planet’ Conference held Part of: GS Prelims and GS - I – Society In news ‘Population versus Planet’ Conference was held recently. It is a part of WION and Zee Media’s year-long campaign called 'Mission Sustainability: Population Vs. Planet'. Key takeaways  World population has witnessed an increase from 1 billion in the year 1800 to 7.8 billion today. India's population has increased from 36 crore in 1951 to 121.02 crore in 2011.  It has witnessed significant decline in both fertility and mortality rates.  The birth rate has reduced from 40.8/1000 in 1951 to 20.0 in 2018.  Total Fertility Rate (TFR) has declined from 6.0 in 1951 to 2.2 in 2015-16.  Death rate in India has declined from 7 in 2012 to 6.2 in 2018. According to Population projection for India and States 2011-2036, the TFR is expected to decline further.  The youth population in the age group of 15-24 years is projected to decline from 233 million in 2011 to 227 million in 2036. The proportion of the working age population is expected to increase from 61% in 2011 to 65% in 2036.  Uber drivers to be considered workers and not freelance contractors: UK Supreme Court  Part of: GS Prelims and GS - II – Internationa relations; & GS- III - Economy In news The UK Supreme Court ruled that Uber drivers were to be considered workers and not freelance contractors.  This order shall make them eligible for all employment related benefits such as minimum wage, annual leaves, and insurance. Key takeaways  With this ruling, Uber and other service providing platforms could also potentially face legal and regulatory challenges in India.  Besides, Indian budget 2021-22 has mandated that the law on minimum wages would now apply to workers of all categories including those associated with platforms such as Uber. Such workers would now be covered by the Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC).  Important value additions  In November 2020, the government had come out with specific norms for apps such as Uber and Ola. Under them, these apps could charge a maximum of 20% commission per ride from driver partners, while also capping the total number of working hours per day at 12. Maximum fare is also provided that these platforms could charge customers even during high demand peak hours.  They would have to provide drivers with insurance.  Do you know?  A gig economy is a free market system in which temporary positions are common and organizations hire independent workers for short-term commitments.  Related articles: Gig Economy and Proposition-22: Click here The gig economy: Click here Gig Workers and its skewed terms: Click here Governing Council of NITI Aayog  Part of: GS Prelims and GS - III – Economy In news The sixth meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog was held recently.  Key takeaways  Governing Council consists of Chief Ministers of all states and Lt. Governors of Union Territories. The Agenda for the Sixth Council Meeting comprised the following items: Making India a Manufacturing Powerhouse Reimagining Agriculture Improving Physical Infrastructure Accelerating Human Resources Development Improving Service Delivery at Grassroots Level Health and Nutrition 'Shri Guru Ravidas Vishva Mahapeeth Rashtriya Adhiveshan' held  Part of: GS Prelims and GS - I – Culture In news Indian President recently addressed 'Shri Guru Ravidas Vishva Mahapeeth Rashtriya Adhiveshan' in New Delhi. Important value additions  He was a Dalit-poet saint.  He belonged to the Bhakti movement era.  He probably lived during the 14th to 16th century.  He belonged to a leather-working Chamar community.  The 41 hymns of Guru Ravidas have been included in the Guru Granth Sahib. The famous saint poetess, Mirabai was a disciple of Guru Ravidas. His teachings Everybody is equal in all respects, irrespective of caste, color or a belief in any form of God; Emphasised on universal brotherhood and tolerance. God created man and not man created God; He abandoned saguna (with attributes, image) forms of supreme beings, and focussed on the nirguna (without attributes, abstract) form of supreme beings. Vertical Launch Short Range Surface To Air Missile (VL-SRSAM) Part of: GS Prelims and GS - III – Defence and Security In news Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted two successful launches of Vertical Launch Short Range Surface to Air Missile (VL-SRSAM). It is developed for Indian Navy.  Indigenously designed and developed by: DRDO Key takeaways It is meant for neutralizing various aerial threats at close ranges including sea-skimming targets. These launches were carried out for demonstration of vertical launch capability.  (Mains Focus) FEDERALISM/ SECURITY Topic: GS-2: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure GS-3: Internal Security Call for ‘Greater Tipraland’ Context: Three months before elections to the Tripura Tribal Areas Autonomous District Council (TTAADC), the state’s royal scion and former state Congress president Pradyot Kishore Manikya Debbarma has given a call for a ‘Greater Tipraland’ (through his organisation TIPRA) , covering Tripuris in and outside of the district council and even the Tripuri diaspora. Map: showing Autonomous Administrative Councils in North East India What is the demand for Greater Tipraland? Greater Tipraland’ has been a political demand on the lines of ‘Greater Nagalim’ It seeks to – in a democratic manner – cater to the aspirations of Tripuris in Mamit of Mizoram, Kachar and Hailakandi in Assam, and even in Khagrachari, Bandarban, and Chittagong of Bangladesh. Tripuris are 19 indigenous clans, most of whom live in the TTAADC areas which make up two-thirds of the state’s geographical area but comprise only one-third of the state’s population of 37 lakh people. 70 percent land under the TTAADC is covered by hills and forests and most inhabitants are prone to ‘jhum’ (slash and burn) cultivation.  What are ‘Tipraland’ and ‘Greater Tipraland’? ‘Tipraland’ was a demand of the Indigenous People’s Front of Tripura (IPFT), which is now in power in Tripura in alliance with the Bharatiya Janata Party. It was a political call for the creation of a separate state for indigenous groups. Greater Tipraland demands that every indigenous area or village which is today outside the TTAADC be included Pradyut Kishore who is now spearheading the demand for Greater Tipraland has claimed the demand arose due to unfulfilled demands of revising NRC in Tripura and opposition to CAA in the past. Critical Analysis of the issue: Vote Bank Politics: In the wake of impending elections to TTAADC, this is seen an effort by Pradyot to consolidate the tribal vote bank for his party, Tipraha Indigenous Peoples Regional Alliance (TIPRA). Changed Political Scenario: With Pradyot’s new political maneuvering, TIPRA has emerged as the single-largest tribal political party of Tripura. The royal scion has announced a mega merger and alliance with all major tribal political parties.This may alter the power balance in State (dominated by CPIM and ruling BJP-IPFT govt.) New-age ethnic politics: Tripura saw turbulent violent struggles by different outlawed insurgent outfits for past three decades-  all demanding self-determination and sovereignty on different community lines. This new demand is to unite people from both tribal and non-tribal behind ethnic identity. Challenge to Federal Spirit: Even though the demand for Greater Tipraland is on democratic lines, such ethnicity based redrawing of boundaries will hamper the delicate balance in North East. It may also further embolden the demand of Nagas thus putting the entire region under contestations. Impacts Relations with Bangladesh: With the passage of 100th Constitutional Amendment Act of 2015, the land boundary between India and Bangladesh has been settled. However, such demands that includes areas falling in Bangladesh will negatively impact the cooperative bilateral relationship between both countries. Can create Insurgency: This being a political sensitive issue where ethnicity, development and federalism are involved, Union government has to watch closely the developments & engage with stakeholders to address their grievances. If left unattended the pent up grievances can turn into insurgency in long run. Way Ahead Even though at this stage, the demand appears to be aimed at consolidating vote bank for the Council elections, Governments (both Union and State) should not take light of these developments. Connecting the dots: Bru Refugees Agreement and the role of Pradyut Kishore: Click here ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment India’s Unemployment Problem Context: Twitter trend whereby government was asked to provide jobs for unemployed youth of our Country. Just before the Covid crisis at the end of 2019-20 financial year, India had around 403.5 million employed people and around 35 million (or 3.5 crore) openly unemployed people (those who are seeking work and not finding it) in the country. Issues Addition of Job Seekers Every Year: Given India’s population growth, each year there are close to 20 million (or 2 crore) people who enter the working-age population of 15 to 59 years. Recovery Post Pandemic: As of January 2021, India had only about 400 million employed (pre-COVID it was 403.5 million). At one level this is good news because far more had lost jobs and many seem to have regained employment as the economy has started recovering.  Steady Decline in number of Employed People: As per CMIE data since 2016, the total number of employed people in India has been steadily coming down. It was 407.3 million in 2016-17 and then fell to 405.9 million in 2017-18, and to 400.9 million at the end of 2018-19. Unemployment has larger Impact on Society: Each unemployed person is part of a larger family — implying millions of families suffering from the lack of employment opportunities. Falling Labour Force Participation rate: Even though people have skills they may not be in position to enter labour market for variety of reasons. For instance, if law and order is poor or if cultural mores can prevent women to seek work. Also, men can give up looking for work after repeated failed attempts. As a result, India’s labour force participation rate (LFPR) falls. India’s LFPR is about 40% (in most developed countries it is 60%) Jobless Growth: Typically, fast economic growth takes care of unemployment worries. However, due to distorted economic structure (service led growth) India’s growth has not translated into jobs. What was required is labour intensive manufacturing led growth providing jobs for millions Technological Advancement & Unemployment: The GDP can continue to go up as more and more companies become more productive by replacing labour with capital (machinery) but that will only deepen India’s unemployment problem. Criticism of Government’s role in Creating Jobs: The mantra of “minimum government” espoused in Union Budget for 2021-22 essentially undercuts the government’s role in directly creating new jobs. While on paper this makes sense, the timing is questionable. That’s because the Indian economy is quite weak and the private sector has already shown its preference by choosing to cut jobs and boost its profits Conclusion Typically, fast economic growth takes care of unemployment worries. However, in India’s case, one cannot assume that. Connecting the dots: Historic Recession: On India’s GDP slump: Click Here Banking Health: NPAs and COVID-19: Click Here (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.  Comments Up-voted by IASbaba are also the “correct answers”. Q.1 Consider the following statements regarding Guru Ravidas: He belonged to the Bhakti movement era.  Hymns of Guru Ravidas have been included in the Guru Granth Sahib. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2 Which of the following is a constitutional body? NITI Aayog National Commission on SCs National Human Rights Commission Central Bureau of Investigation Q.3 What is gig economy? Agricultural economy Public sector economy Services sector economy A labour market characterized by the prevalence of short term contract and freelance work. ANSWERS FOR 22nd February 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 C Must Read On dealing with China by former Foreign Secretary: The Hindu On Diplomacy and Science: The Hindu About rights of migrants: The Indian Express

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1 – ENGLISH & हिंदी): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 2 Questions [23rd February,2021] – Day 38

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1- ENGLISH & हिंदी): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies 2 Questions [23rd February 2020] – Day 38 We will make sure, in the next 100 days not a single day is wasted and your mains preparation is solidified. All your energies are channelized in the right direction. Trust us! This will make a huge difference in your results this time, provided that you follow this plan sincerely every day without fail. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. We are giving 5 Mains Questions on a daily basis so that every student can actively participate and keep your preparation focused. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” To Know More about the Initiative -> CLICK HERE SCHEDULE/DETAILED PLAN – > CLICK HERE Note: Click on Each Question (Link), it will open in a new tab and then Answer respective questions! 1. What are the executive powers of the President? Discuss. What are the limitations on exercising the executive powers? Explain. राष्ट्रपति की कार्यकारी शक्तियाँ क्या हैं? चर्चा करें। कार्यकारी शक्तियों का प्रयोग करने की सीमाएँ क्या हैं? स्पष्ट कीजिए। 2. Discuss the role and composition of the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS). सुरक्षा पर कैबिनेट समिति (CCS) की भूमिका और संरचना पर चर्चा करें। 3. Explain various writ jurisdictions. What role do writs play in protecting the interests of citizens.  विभिन्न रिटों की व्याख्या करें। नागरिकों के हितों की रक्षा में रिटों की क्या भूमिका है? 4. Discuss the evolution of the tool of public interest litigation (PLI) in India. भारत में जनहित याचिका (PLI) के उपकरण के विकास पर चर्चा करें। 5. Examine the criticality of the private sector for achieving high growth for the economy. अर्थव्यवस्था के लिए उच्च विकास प्राप्त करने के लिए निजी क्षेत्र के महत्व को परखें। P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm everyday. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each others answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best :)

Ace The Prelims (ATP)

Ace The Prelims (ATP) – 2021– PRELIMS – [23rd February, 2021] – Day 44

ARCHIVES Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s Ace The Prelims (ATP) – 2021 – PRELIMS & MAINS – [23rd February, 2021] – Day 44   UPSC Quiz - 2021 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 23rd February 2021 UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 23rd February 2021 UPSC Static Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) – History [Day 44]   The way ATP molecules provide energy to every single cell of our body and help us in achieving our day to day tasks, similarly, the ‘Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021’ Programme will help in providing energy and direction to your prelims preparation and push you beyond the cutoff of Prelims 2021. Ace the Prelims (ATP) – 2021 will include Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) Daily CSAT Practice Test Daily Current Affair Quiz 60 Days Plan (starts from 2nd week of March) To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE   Thank You IASbaba

Daily Static Quiz

UPSC Static Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) – History [Day 44]

ARCHIVES DAILY STATIC QUIZ (PYQs) It will cover PYQs all the topics of static subjects – Polity, History, Geography, Economics, Environment and Science and technology. Daily 5 questions (Monday to Saturday) will be posted from static topics (PYQs) The questions will be in the quiz format so you will be able to answer them directly on the portal. Schedule Week 1 – Polity Week 2 – Economics Week 3 – History and Art & Culture Week 4 – Geography Week 5 – Environment and Science & Technology Same cycle will be repeated from Week 6. Make the best use of the initiative. All the best! To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE Important Note: Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :) After completing the 5 questions, click on 'View Questions' to check your score, time taken and solutions. To take the Test - Click Here

UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 23rd February 2021

ARCHIVES Daily CSAT Practice Test Everyday 5 Questions from Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension will be covered from Monday to Saturday. Make the best use of the initiative. All the best! To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE 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

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2021 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 23rd February 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. We will make sure, in the next 4 months not a single day is wasted. All your energies are channelized in the right direction. Trust us! This will make a huge difference in your results this time, provided that you follow this plan sincerely every day without fail. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE 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

SYNOPSIS [18th February,2021] Day 34: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE   SYNOPSIS [18th February,2021] Day 34: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. What are the different strands of socialism? Discuss. How did socialism evolve as a politico-economic philosophy? Examine. Approach Candidate are expected to write about socialism and its various strands. Question also demands to examine on how socialism evolved as a political economic philosophy. Introduction Socialism refers to a set of political ideas that emerged as a response to the inequalities present in, and reproduced by, the industrial capitalist economy. The main concern of Socialism is how to minimise existing inequality and distribute resources justly. Although advocates of socialism are not entirely opposed to the market, they favour some kind of government regulation, planning and control over certain key areas such as education and health care. Body Different strands of socialism – Utopian Socialism: One of the earliest forms of socialism founded by the Welsh Spiritualist philosopher Robert Owen. In contrast to later socialist schools of thought which would advocate violent revolution, the Utopians believed that capitalists could be convinced to become socialists purely through rational persuasion Democratic Socialism: Democratic Socialists are arguably the most pragmatic socialists in that instead of demanding immediate market abolition like Marxist-Leninists, Trotskyists and some Libertarian Socialists, they work within the market system from below in order to gently nudge employers to give workers fairer wages. Revolutionary Socialism: Revolutionary socialism is the socialist doctrine that social revolution is necessary in order to bring about structural changes to society. More specifically, it is the view that revolution is a necessary precondition for a transition from capitalism to socialism. Libertarian Socialism: Libertarian Socialism seeks the dismantling of all in just social and economic hierarchies. They generally agree that early attempts at creating socialist societies failed due to their statist nature, viewing statism as a contradiction to the egalitarian values of socialism on the basis that states promote social stratification and class disparities. Fabian Socialism: The Fabians constructed a model of socialism which they claimed could be achieved through a programme of nationalisation and delivery of welfare services directed by national government, with some tasks delegated to local municipalities elected by the people, but with effective control in the hands of those who knew best, the professional classes. Marxism, Leninism, and Maoism: Marxism-Leninism, as the Soviet version of communism is often called, held that urban workers should form the revolutionary vanguard. Mao Zedong, on the other hand, believed that Communist revolutions should gestate among the rural peasantry, who would later join with their proletariat comrades in the cities to form classless paradises. Green socialism: Green socialism is protective of natural resources. Large corporations in a green socialistic society are owned and run by the public. In addition, green socialism promotes the development and use of public transit, as well as the processing and sale of locally grown food. Moreover, the public is guaranteed a sustainable wage. Emergence of socialism as a political economic philosophy – Industrialisation and capitalism brought benefits as well as hardship to man unemployment, smoky, crowded cities, unhealthy living and working conditions, rivalry and conflict between nations. The-wide gap between the aims of the French Revolution and the actual conditions in France after the revolution created serious discontent among the people. It led to an attempt to overthrow the existing government in France with a view to building a society based on socialist ideas. This attempt, known as Babeufs Conspiracy, is an important event in the history of socialism. Greatest challenge to laissez faire, & to capitalism itself, has come from the idea of socialism, which grew in beginning as a reaction against the evils of capitalism. Ideas of socialism arose as political economic philosophy while recognising the importance of Machines & making them even better, aimed at solving the problems created by capitalism, by building a new social order. The First Communist Manifesto appeared in German in February 1848. The influence of this document in the history of the socialist movement is without a rival. Pioneers Marx and Engels worked in the socialist movement and through their numerous writings, they gave a new direction to socialist ideology and movement. It pointed out that socialism was not merely desirable, but also inevitable. The Second International decided that the socialists should utilise the “economic and political crisis created by the war, to rouse the masses and thereby to hasten the downfall of capitalist rule”. The socialists in many countries had resolved to call for a general strike to prevent their countries from participating in wars. The idea appealed particularly to workers. Through their struggles, they were able to achieve much improvement in their living conditions. Laissez faire doctrine was opposed by many people. Gradually, almost all the countries came to accept the idea that the state has a legitimate right and duty to regulate the economy. This started crystallisation of socialism as political economic philosophy. The idea grew that, capitalism itself is evil and needs to be replaced by a different kind and economic system in which the means a production would be owned by the society as a whole and not by a few individuals. Conclusion Though the socialist movement did not succeed in bringing about a socialist revolution in any country in the 19th century, it brought about widespread awareness of the problems created by capitalism and the inadequacies of democracy. It also emerged as a powerful political movement in a number of countries. It was to play an increasingly important role in the coming years all over the world, making socialism, along with democracy and nationalism, the dominating factor in the history of the world in the 20th century. 2. Examine the factors that led to the expansion of communism in Europe. Approach  Question is straight forward in nature. Candidate can give timeline of events and factors that led to rise of communism in Europe concluding with disintegration of USSR. Introduction During the latter half of the 19th century, various left-wing organisations across Europe continued to campaign against the many autocratic right-wing regimes that were then in power. Body Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels joined the German Social-Democratic Party which had been created in 1875, but which was outlawed in 1879 by the German government, then led by Chancellor Otto von Bismarck, who deemed it to be a political threat due to its revolutionary nature and increasing number of supporters. This was a start of communism in Europe. Factors responsible for rise of communism – At the time, Marxism took off not only in Germany, but it also gained popularity in Hungary, the Habsburg Monarchy and the Netherlands, although it did not achieve such success in other European nations like the United Kingdom, where Marx and Engels had been based. the new political ideology had gained sufficient support that an organisation was founded known as the Second International to unite the various Marxist groups around the world. The devastation of the war resulted in a massive recovery program involving the rebuilding of industrial plants, housing and transportation as well as the demobilization and migration of millions of soldiers and civilians. In the midst of this turmoil during the winter of 1946–1947, the Soviet Union experienced the worst natural famine in the 20th century. Relations with the United States and Britain went from friendly to hostile, as they denounced Stalin's political controls over Eastern Europe and his blockade of Berlin. By 1947, the Cold War had begun. Stalin himself believed that capitalism was a hollow shell and would crumble under increased non-military pressure exerted through proxies in countries like Italy. The military success of the Red Army in Central and Eastern Europe led to a consolidation of power in communist hands. In some cases, such as Czechoslovakia, this led to enthusiastic support for socialism inspired by the Communist Party and a Social Democratic Party willing to fuse. In other cases, such as Poland or Hungary, the fusion of the Communist Party with the Social Democratic Party was forcible and accomplished through undemocratic means. In many cases, the communist parties of Central Europe were faced with a population initially quite willing to reign in market forces, institute limited nationalisation of industry and supporting the development of intensive social welfare states, whereas broadly the population largely supported socialism. The Hungarian Revolution of 1956 was a major challenge to Moscow's control of Eastern Europe. This revolution saw general strikes, the formation of independent workers councils, and the restoration of the Social Democratic Party as a party for revolutionary communism of a non-Soviet variety. This flowering of dissenting communism was crushed by a combination of a military invasion supported by heavy artillery and airstrikes; mass arrests West Germany and West Berlin were centres of East–West conflict during the Cold War and numerous communist fronts were established. East Germany worked as a front of communist ideology. The Czechoslovak Communist Party began an ambitious reform agenda. The plan to limit central control and make the economy more independent of the party threatened bedrock beliefs. On 20 August 1968, Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev ordered a massive military invasion by Warsaw Pact forces that destroyed the threat of internal liberalization. An important trend in several countries in Western Europe from the late 1960s into the 1980s was Eurocommunism. It was strongest in Spain's PCE, Finland's party and especially in Italy's PCI, where it drew on the ideas of Antonio Gramsci. End of eastern bloc – Social resistance to the policies of communist regimes in Eastern Europe accelerated in strength with the rise of the Solidarity, the first non-communist controlled trade union in the Warsaw Pact that was formed in the People's Republic of Poland in 1980. Eastern European communist states politically deteriorated in response to the success of the Polish Solidarity movement and the possibility of Gorbachev-style political liberalisation.  The Soviet Union itself collapsed between 1990 and 1991, with a rise of secessionist nationalism and a political power dispute between Gorbachev and Boris Yeltsin, the new leader of the Russian Federation. Conclusion Communism in Europe was at its peak after the end of world war second and during the cold war. But the failed economic and social policies gave rise to new spring of reforms with ideas of liberal west dominating public sphere. After 1980’s communism started declining in Europe and with the fall of berlin wall eventually died its own death. 3. Capitalism has been the primary force shaping the global economy in the post-cold war period. Illustrate. Approach  The question is asking you to illustrate it means it asks you to exemplify or to provide examples. Introduction  Capitalism is often thought of as an economic system in which private actors own and control property in accord with their interests, and demand and supply freely set prices in markets in a way that can serve the best interests of society. The political and economic systems of the capitalist USA and communist USSR were incompatible. Both sides wanted countries to conform to their adopted ideologies for their own gains. The Cold War was a political, economic, and military confrontation between capitalism and communism that lasted from 1945 to 1991, but it continues to influence our lives today. The so-called collapse of communism reinforced powerful North American- and Western-European-centred visions which continue to see 'Western' models of development or capitalism as the key to modernization world-wide. Body CAPITALISM HAS BEEN THE PRIMARY FORCE SHAPING THE GLOBAL ECONOMY IN THE POST COLD WAR PERIOD – The global expansion of capital Post-Cold War Era has had varied effects on the global economy and state relations on a global scale. Undoubtedly the world has experienced significant lowering of trade barriers that historically inhibited cross border transactions. With the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1989 and the end of the Cold War in 1991, the world became more interconnected. This is because the communist bloc countries, which had previously been intentionally isolated from the capitalist West, began to integrate into the global market economy.  Trade and investment increased, while barriers to migration and to cultural exchange were lowered.  The People's Republic of China, already having moved towards capitalism starting in the late 1970s and facing public anger after the Tiananmen Square protests of 1989 in Beijing, moved even more quickly towards free market economics in the 1990s. McDonald's and Pizza Hut both entered the country in the second half of 1990, the first American chains in China aside from Kentucky Fried Chicken which had entered 3 years earlier in 1987.  Stock markets were established in Shenzhen and Shanghai late in 1990 as well. The restrictions on car ownership were loosened in the early 1990s, causing the bicycle to decline as a form of transport by 2000. The move to capitalism has increased the economic prosperity of China, but many people still live-in poor conditions, working for companies for very small pay and in dangerous and poor conditions. After the end of the Cold War, Communism would also end in Mongolia, Congo, Albania, Yugoslavia, Afghanistan, and Angola. Today there are only 4 remaining countries in the world ruled by communist single parties: China, Cuba, Laos, and Vietnam. At the same time, economic recovery in the capitalist world, combined with increasingly globalized telecommunications, advertised the West’s advantages far more effectively than any propaganda. It was capitalism’s ability to outpace Soviet growth at key junctures that made ideological victory possible.  Conclusion When the Soviet Union collapsed 26 years ago, it was generally agreed that the West had won the Cold War. This was affirmed by the prosperity and possibilities awaiting citizens of Western countries, as opposed to the political and economic stagnation experienced by those in Communist states. A natural conclusion, much repeated at the time, was that capitalism had finally defeated communism. 4. What is your understanding of the term ‘neocolonialism’? Discuss with the help of suitable examples. Approach Students are expected to explain the term “neocolonialism” in simple terms. The question is very simple and the student is expected to write the origin, evolution and development of neocolonialism in the word with the help of some examples.  Introduction Neocolonialism is a term used by post-colonial critics of developed countries' involvement in the developing world. The term Neocolonialism can combine a critique of current actual colonialism (where some states continue administrating foreign territories and their populations in violation of United Nations resolutions) and a critique of modern capitalist businesses involvement in nations which were former colonies. Critics of neocolonialism contend that private, foreign business companies continue to exploit the resources of post-colonial peoples, and that this economic control inherent to neocolonialism is akin to the classical, European colonialism practiced from the sixteenth to the twentieth centuries. Body Definition and Context – Neocolonialism can be described as the subtle propagation of socio-economic and political activity by former colonial rulers aimed at reinforcing capitalism, neo-liberal globalization, and cultural subjugation of their former colonies. In a neocolonial state, the former colonial masters ensure that the newly independent colonies remain dependent on them for economic and political direction. The dependency and exploitation of the socio-economic and political lives of the now independent colonies are carried out for the economic, political, ideological, cultural, and military benefits of the colonial masters’ home states. This is usually carried out through indirect control of the economic and political practices of the newly independent states instead of through direct military control as was the case in the colonial era. Neocolonialism- The origin and Development – The term neocolonialism first saw widespread use, particularly in reference to Africa, soon after the process of decolonization which followed a struggle by many national independence movements in the colonies following World War II. Upon gaining independence, some national leaders and opposition groups argued that their countries were being subjected to a new form of colonialism, waged by the former colonial powers and other developed nations. Kwame Nkrumah, who in 1957 became leader of newly independent Ghana, expounded this idea in his Neo-Colonialism: The Last Stage of Imperialism, in 1965.  Jean Paul Sartre’s Colonialism and Neocolonialism (1964) contains the first recorded use of the term neocolonialism. The term has become an essential theme in African Philosophy, most especially in African political philosophy. In the book, Sartre argued for the immediate disengagement of France’s grip upon its ex-colonies and for total emancipation from the continued influence of French policies on those colonies, particularly Algeria.  Spread of Neocolonialism – The heavy dependence on foreign aid and the apparent activities of the multinational corporations in Africa reveal that Africa at the beginning of the 21st century is still in a neocolonial stage of development. The activities of the corporations in Africa, particularly those from Europe and America reveal nothing short of economic exploitation and cultural domination. Early 21st century Africa is witnessing neocolonialism from different fronts, from the influences of trans-national corporations from Europe and America to the form of a new imperial China, which many African governments now seem obligated to. The establishment of the multinational corporations, and more recently Chinese interests in Africa through Chinese companies, appear mainly to exist for the benefits of the home economies of the neocolonialists than to infuse local African economies with cash to stimulate growth and increase local capacity. Those who argue that neocolonialism historically supplemented (and later supplanted) colonialism, point to the fact that Africa today pays more money every year in debt service payments to the IMF and World Bank than it receives in loans from them, thereby often depriving the inhabitants of those countries from actual necessities. This dependency, they maintain, allows the International Monetory Fund and World Bank to impose Structural Adjustment Plans upon these nations. Adjustments largely consisting of privatization programs which they say result in deteriorating health, education, an inability to develop infrastructure, and in general, lower living standards. In recent years, the People's Republic of China has built increasingly stronger ties with African nations. China is currently Africa's third largest trading partner, after the United States and former colonial power France. As of August 2007, there were an estimated 750,000 Chinese nationals working or living for extended periods in different African countries. China is picking up natural resources—oil, precious minerals—to feed its expanding economy and new markets for its burgeoning enterprises. In 2006, two-way trade had increased to $50 billion. Neocolonialism is also used within other theoretical frameworks.One variant of neocolonialism theory suggests the existence of cultural colonialism, the alleged desire of wealthy nations to control other nations' values and perceptions through cultural means, such as media, language, education, and religion, purportedly ultimately for economic reasons. One element of this is a critique of "Colonial Mentality" which writers have traced well beyond the legacy of 19th century colonial empires. These critics argue that people, once subject to colonial or imperial rule, latch onto physical and cultural differences between the foreigners and themselves, leading some to associate power and success with the foreigners' ways. This eventually leads to the foreigners' ways being regarded as the better way and being held in a higher esteem than previous indigenous ways.  Even the aid, relief and development efforts carried out both by government of the rich North in the poorer South attracts criticism for furthering the agendas of the powerful. For instance, the humanitarian aid in South Sudan, Yemen.  Conclusion As a theme of African philosophy, the term neocolonialism became widespread in use—particularly in reference to Africa—immediately the process of decolonization began in Africa.  The widespread use of the term neocolonialism began when Africans realized that even after independence their countries were still being subjected to a new form of colonialism.  The Chinese have not come to Africa to replace the European/U.S neo-colonialists and their neo-liberal economic model of engagement, but rather to offer Africa an alternative model in the form of the so called “Beijing Consensus”. China has found pragmatic ways to legitimize neo-colonialism through multilateralism and cooperation in order to navigate an international regime of norms and institutions that guards statehood and sovereignty. Thus, it has turned to trade and bilateral arrangements in order to enter Africa instead of entering via the barrel of the gun as the Europeans did. Thus, China’s rise to global power requires a correct interpretation of its motivations and methods. The motivations are similar to those of European colonialism, but its methods are strategically different, as trade advantage has been masked by aggressive multilateralism, disguised as mutually beneficially economic cooperation in a pragmatic attempt to navigate a norm driven international system and institutionalized world community.  5. Examine the concept of ‘internationalism’? Why is it important in the current global context? Approach We need to define the concept of ‘internationalism’.  Further we have to mention the importance of ‘internationalism’ in the current global context. Introduction  Internationalism is a political principle based on a belief that countries can achieve more advantages by working together and trying to understand each other than by arguing and fighting wars with each other. Body Supporters of internationalism are known as internationalists and generally believe that humans should unite across national, political, cultural, racial, or class boundaries to advance their common interests, or that governments should cooperate because their mutual long-term interests are of greater importance than their short-term disputes. Internationalism is an important component of socialist political theory, based on the principle that working-class people of all countries must unite across national boundaries and actively oppose nationalism and war in order to overthrow capitalism Most challenges confronting the world and likely to confront it in the future are cross-national in character. They respect no national boundaries and are not amenable to national solutions.  Thus, Internationalism is important in the current global context due to following reasons – COVID-19 pandemic: Global Covid death toll crossed 2.43 million still, there is virtually no coordination at the international level to tackle covid pandemic. Addressing UNSC, India urged the international community to stop vaccine nationalism and actively encourage internationalism, underlining that hoarding superfluous doses will defeat global efforts to attain collective health security and combat the pandemic. Economic Revival: The World Bank (WB) baseline forecast envisions a 5.2% contraction in global GDP in 2020, the deepest global recession in decades due to covid pandemic. Recent protectionist tendencies reflected via USA-China, Indo-China trade conflicts and sanctions on Iran, Russia, etc. deepens economic fractures. Internationalism effort like G-20 summit was born in response to the global financial and economic crisis of 2008 and provided a coordinated response that prevented catastrophic damage to the global economy. Such similar effort is needed to ensure inclusive and sustainable economic V-shaped recovery.  Climate Conservation: Sea levels are rising, glaciers are melting and precipitation patterns are changing. Extreme weather events are becoming more intense and frequent. Through comprehensive communication and co-operation we can mitigate ill effects of climate change. Global Peace: Tensions between nuclear powered nations like US, China, Russia, North Korea, India, Pakistan, etc. put world in the brink of mass destruction. Terrorism with its complex and wide spread operations threaten the world peace. Wars in West Asia, Gulf, etc. need a global solution through inclusive and peaceful dialogue. Global Governance: Institutions such as the United Nations and the World Health Organization which are already marginalised may become increasingly irrelevant. United Nation currently works on an outdated global understanding where only five permanent members of UN Security Council (UNSC) wield power to veto crucial decisions. U.N. as the only truly inclusive global platform enjoying international legitimacy despite its failing’s needs reforms to make it more democratic and in line with current global realities. Appreciation to global cultural diversity: Fear of loss of identity due to overriding influence of western culture and influence of other cultures on western culture has caused hate and conflicts. Islam phobia, White Supremacy, etc. highlight divides among the global community. Thus an environment of global solidarity and tolerance can be achieved through internationalism. Technological advances and privacy concerns: Artificial Intelligence, Crypto-currency, big data etc. have caused concerns related to data sovereignty and privacy. Solarwind hack, Zhenhua Data leak, etc. highlight misuse of technology. Thus, a global consensus based agreement is need to safeguard sovereignty on nations and privacy of citizens. Following are recent initiatives that highlight adherence to the principle of internationalism – Indian initiative in convening leaders of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation nations for a regional collaborative effort on COVID-19 and providing Covid-19 vaccine to global community. India has shipped Made in India’ Covid-19 vaccines to around 25 nations. COVAX is co-led by Gavi, the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI) and WHO. Its aim is to accelerate the development and manufacture of COVID-19 vaccines, and to guarantee fair and equitable access for every country in the world. Paris Climate deal including intended nationally determined contribution (INDC) and efforts to finalise framework for its working and implementation show a cooperative resolve to tackle climate change. Conclusion At the recent The Economic Times Global Business Summit, Indian Prime Minister claimed that the world today is “inter-connected, inter-related and also interdependent” but it has not been able to come on a single platform or frame a Global Agenda, a global goal of how to overcome world poverty, how to end terrorism, how to handle Climate Change issues. Thus internationalism can make us capable to face these challenges together and make us all victorious in near common future TLP HOT Synopsis Day 34 PDF