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[MI-STORIES]MOTIVATIONAL AND INSPIRATIONAL STORIES - One at a time !

For Previous Story -> CLICK HERE Inspirational Stories: Here is the story for this week from the new series of Inspirational and Motivational stories. One of the oldest known forms of communication is story telling. There is something primordial within us that loves stories and their tremendous impact. In this series, we aim to bring you the best of real-life stories that can inspire and motivate you. Stories always try to teach us something useful. It is one of the best ways of learning from other's mistakes and avoiding our own. Although each story has its own moral, in the comments section you can share your opinion on the moral of the story. If you are able to see something that others might have missed, you can share it for the benefit of all. Apart from just reading these awesome stories, you can also share some of the stories that have inspired you. If we find the story appropriate and useful, we will share it with all. More importantly, read these stories every week without a miss, and stay inspired.   So Here is the story for this week - One at a time ! A friend of ours was walking down a deserted Mexican beach at sunset. As he walked along, he began to see another man in the distance. As he grew nearer, he noticed that the local native kept leaning down, picking something up and throwing it out into the water. Time and again he kept hurling things out into the ocean. As our friend approached even closer, he noticed that the man was picking up starfish that had been washed up on the beach and, one at a time, he was throwing them back into the water. Our friend was puzzled. He approached the man and said, "Good evening, friend. I was wondering what you are doing." "I'm throwing these starfish back into the ocean. You see, it's low tide right now and all of these starfish have been washed up onto the shore. If I don't throw them back into the sea, they'll die up here from lack of oxygen." "I understand," my friend replied, "but there must be thousands of starfish on this beach. You can't possibly get to all of them. There are simply too many. And don't you realize this is probably happening on hundreds of beaches all up and down this coast. Can't you see that you can't possibly make a difference?" The local native smiled, bent down and picked up yet another starfish, and as he threw it back into the sea, he replied, "Made a difference to that one!"  

SYNOPSIS [28th JUNE,2021] Day 121: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE   SYNOPSIS [28th JUNE,2021] Day 121: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. The Comptroller and Auditor General is an important pillar of constitutional democracy in India. Do you agree? Substantiate. Approach  Write about the CAG in Introduction with giving background. In further part try to write how it’s a important pillar in Constitutional democracy also you can highlight few limitations of office before conclusion. Introduction The Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) refers to both the Supreme Audit Institution of India (SAI) as well as the individual who heads the institution. Established in 1858 under the British Raj, it functions as the auditor of the executive branches of the central and state governments. Body CAG is an important pillar of constitutional democracy: Described as the “most important officer in the Constitution of India” by Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) is an independent authority established under Article 148 of the Indian Constitution. CAG of India or the “Guardian of the Public Purse” is essentially vested with the responsibility of inspecting and auditing all the expenditure and receipts of both the Central and the State Governments as well as of those organizations or bodies which are significantly funded by the government. In a democracy like India, accountability of the ruling class is an important aspect of polity and governance. For ensuring the same, the Constitution of India has given the authority to institutional frameworks such as an independent Judiciary, Vigilance bodies and a Supreme Audit Institution or SAI.  The Supreme Audit Institution is constituted by the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) and the Indian Audit and Accounts Department (IAAD) which functions under his charge.  The office of CAG has been mandated by the Indian Constitution to be the auditors of the nation and, thus, an agent for maintaining answerability. He audits all receipts and expenditure from the Consolidated Fund of India, the Contingency Fund of India and the Public Account of India, as well as similar accounts of states thus ensuring financial transparency. He audits all trading, manufacturing, profit and loss accounts, balance sheets and other subsidiary accounts kept by any department of the Central Government and the state governments. He audits the receipts and expenditure of all bodies and authorities substantially financed from the Central or State revenues; government companies; other corporations and bodies, when so required by related laws. He audits the accounts of any other authority when requested by the President or Governor e.g. Local bodies. He ascertain whether money shown in the accounts as having been disbursed was legally available for and applicable to the service or the purpose to which they have been applied or charged and whether the expenditure conforms to the authority that governs it He advises the President with regard to prescription of the form in which the accounts of the Centre and States shall be kept. He submits his audit reports relating to the accounts of the Centre/state to the President/Governor, who shall, in turn, place them before both the houses of Parliament/state legislature (Article 151). He conducts the propriety audit, that is, he can look into the ‘wisdom, faithfulness and economy’ of government expenditure and comment on the wastefulness and extravagance of such expenditure. CAG also acts as a guide, friend and philosopher of the Public Accounts Committee of the Parliament. There are several limitations on CAG that prevents him to fully exercise his mandate: He cannot perform the function of comptroller, as he has no control over the issue of money from the consolidated fund and performs only the role of auditor. The CAG cannot call for particulars of expenditure incurred by the secret service agencies. Certain particulars of defense deals are also not compulsorily revealed to CAG, for example recently retracted documents of expenditure incurred in case of Rafale deal. The government has increased its participation with the private sector through the PPP (Public Private Partnership) investments; however CAG does not have the power to audit PPP. There is no provision for auditing of funds that are given to an NGO and elected local bodies.  Despite having such importance in the parliamentary setup of a democracy like India, the institution of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India has, time and again, suffered due to the less general public awareness about the significance of this authority.  A major fallacy that exists in modern-day polity is the less popularity of many CAG reports and the fact that not all of these reports are deliberated upon in the Parliament. The office of CAG is too important to be ignored or not utilized efficiently, and thus calls for reforms, for example, as suggested by former CAG Vinod Rai, like bringing PPPs, Panchayati Raj Institutions and government-funded societies, within the ambit of the CAG and amending CAG Act of 1971 to keep pace with the changes in governance. Conclusion To expedite the efficiency of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India as a constitutional officer charged with the responsibility of maintaining and upholding the accountability and liability of the ones in power, it is important to popularize the audit reports released by the CAG and open up opportunities for more general public discussion about them. Controversies like the Commonwealth Games, 2G Spectrum and Rafale Deal brought forth the importance of CAG reports in a democracy like India and helped ignite public discourse. 2. What challenges does India’s federal polity pose to good governance and reforms in the fields of agriculture, policing and ease of doing business? Analyse with the help of suitable examples. Approach  It expects students to write about challenges posed by federal polity in India towards good governance and reforms in the field of the agriculture, policing and ease of doing business try to analyse the issues with suitable examples. Introduction  Federalism is a system of government in which powers have been divided between the centre and its constituent parts such as states or provinces. It is an institutional mechanism to accommodate two sets of politics, one at the centre or national level and second at the regional or provincial level. Body  Indian federal polity: Indian federalism is identified as cooperative federalism which is indestructible union of destructible states however Indian states don’t draw power from union government but from constitution. Seventh schedule of the constitution provide list of subjects governed by states.    India is a federal system but with more tilt towards a unitary system of government. It is sometimes considered a quasi-federal system as it has features of both a federal and a unitary system. Federal polity in India is delicate balance between centre and states, most of the issues influencing day to day life are associated with states. Out of the 49 relatively large nations with gross domestic product (GDP) exceeding $200 billion, India ranks at near bottom on most indicators of basic amenities, infrastructure, education and healthcare, in the company of Pakistan, Bangladesh and Nigeria. Challenges posed by federal polity to good governance:  A rigid, uniform political model imposed on all states and local governments sometimes disregard local needs. Bureaucracy is often seen as slow moving if not dysfunctional protected by Article 311, the generalist, all-purpose all-India services that lack in bringing specialized skills required to manage various services. Part IX of the Constitution that created over-structured, under-powered local governments that not empowered enough to take root as the third tier of federalism. Archaic anachronistic role of nominated governors are making states and local governments dysfunctional.  The Centre collects a bulk of the taxes. However, states do most of the expenditure including on education, health, law and order, etc. Thus, there is an imbalance between revenue input and work output. This imbalance is sought to be addressed by transferring a part of the taxes collected by the Centre to the 28 states and 9 Union territories (UTs). Challenges to reforms in Agriculture: These are long-pending reforms, stalled or opposed by the States owing to pressure from the two influential intermediaries, traders and commission agents operating in mandis. Since agriculture, including “markets and fairs,” are State subjects as per the Constitution, State governments have governing power over these subjects. Agriculture being a state subject, the central government formulates policy guidelines, advises, and allocates funds. However, the onus of proper implementation of farm and market reforms lies with state governments. Marketing system is inefficient and leads to the exploitation of farmers by intermediaries. Farmers in many states are also exploited through a non-transparent and multipoint levy of a market fee in the absence of a unified single trading licence valid across the state or Union territory. Challenges to reforms in Policing: For a country like India which is divided on the linguistic and communal basis, a pure federal structure could lead to disruption and division of states. Central agencies like CBI, IT working under the pressure. Treating the state as their own fiefdom. No party wants to give up its hold on the police. The power to transfer is often misused in order to keep a tight control over the force results into lack of independence and professionalism. IT raids at the offices and residence of aides of Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister which saw run-in between the CRPF officers and the state police officers. Such instances were also witnessed in West Bengal, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh as well where the central agencies proceeded with corruption or irregularity probes. Challenges to Ease of doing business: Though the states are provided with financial independence, it is a fallacy to assume that all the states would perform uniformly in the process of development because while some states have favourable factors like skilled labour, capital and infrastructure, innovative service industries other states lagging behind. Union Tax laws are prone to the subjective interpretation of tax officers which causes undue hardships to taxpayers and leaves scope for “tax terrorism”. The quality and pace of course correction on the GST in the coming months is uncertain and will determine if India can hold its latest position in EODB or move up further. Andhra pradesh government have cancelled or put on hold a number of high-profile State contracts and projects, many involving foreign partners who now face huge losses. Analysts caution that it will be extremely hard for the State to attract foreign investors in future. One of the items in the Concurrent list is economic and social planning hence implying that the decision of the same should be taken collectively and with equal discretion by both the State and the Centre. But, Central government tends to control the national and regional planning in India without any inhibitions at all. Conclusion  We need to strike a balance between both unitary and federal features of the country states should be autonomous in their own sphere but they can’t be wholly independent to avoid a state of tyranny in the nation. Cooperation between the Centre and the states is a sine qua non for the expeditious implementation of reforms in the agriculture sector, policing and various indicators of ease of doing business. Hence, a structured mechanism based on the philosophy of cooperative federalism is the need of the hour. 3. Cooperative federalism is the only democratic way for the smooth functioning of Centre-State interactions. Illustrate. Approach Start with defining Indian cooperative federalism, then directly address the demand of questions also before conclusion try to give alternative perspective such as how competitive federalism can help in development and interaction. Introduction  Federalism is a system of government in which states or provinces share power with a national government. Cooperative federalism refers to a concept where various states cooperate with each other and with the centre to achieve the goals of growth, development of the states and the nation. They cooperate in working out details concerning which level of government takes responsibility for particular areas and creating policy in that area. Body Cooperative federalism is the democratic way for the smooth functioning of centre  state interactions: India formation itself is a union of states unlike the “united” federal units of other countries. This itself demands a co-operation between the central and federal entities. Though a policy devised by the centre its success depends on the implementation by the states. Hence cooperation from the states is inevitable in this regard. NITI Aayog can be one such initiative to ensure smooth implementation. Chief secretaries of States in one of the meetings even showcased the best practices being incorporated in their respective States, a move aimed at promoting cross fertilisation of ideas. Under Article 263, this council is expected to inquire and advice on disputes, discuss subjects common to all states and make recommendations for better policy coordination. The foreign policy decisions if taken by bypassing the concerned Border States will yield nothing but unsustainability. Hence cooperation from the states and in turn support from the centre is a must to ensure success. On issues like international treaties, WTO obligations, or the environment an institutional mechanism must be evolved where important decisions are appropriately discussed with states. Though not much discussed, AIS must be viewed as a support for the development of state policies than controlling the states through suspicion. Finally in all these issues, the success depends on co-operation and mutual trust between centre and states. The Zonal Councils a cooperative federalism setup, since their inception and have contributed significantly in bringing about socio-economic advancement in different parts of the country. Apart from specific issues relating to States/ Union territories of the Zones, issues of national importance like Internal Security, Right to Information Act, National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, trafficking in women and children, coastal security, etc. have been discussed and useful recommendations made. Recommendations of the Zonal Councils have facilitated significant changes at the ground level. Despite a policy support by the support by the states, the states must be infused with the required funds to bring the outcomes. 14th Finance commission recommendations to raise the net shareable income can help in this matter. Keeping the spirit of cooperative federalism alive whether in consultation with the States or taking care of their finances is essential as the country is fighting the pandemic. The Centre must realise that we have the best chance of winning the war against pandemic when we are united. India needs a mix of Competitive and Cooperative federalism: There needs to be a mix of competitive and cooperative federalism for India to move ahead. The future for India is cooperative and competitive federalism. Competitive federalism provides the dynamism that needs to be unleashed. We need cooperative federalism to balance competitive federalism. Constitution needed to catch up with economics to “favour integration over granting sovereignty" to promote Indian internal integration. Conclusion Thus, the Indian Constitution would seem to create a “cooperative union” of states rather than a dual polity. The actual working of cooperative federalism in India has entailed the Union’s exercising its influence rather than its constitutional authority. A redistribution of powers through decentralization and the devolution of authority from the Union to the states and from the states to the Panchayats and municipalities are serving to facilitate the attainment of the objectives of the Constitution: unity, social justice, and democracy. TLP Synopsis Day 121 PDF

WEEKEND WITH BABA

[WEEKEND WITH BABA] Discussion on INTEGRATED LEARNING PROGRAM (ILP) 2022 by Atyab Ali Zaidi Sir

Dear Students You can watch Discussion on Integrated Learning Program (ILP) 2022 by Atyab Ali Sir here - In this session, Sir has discussed: - What is the ILP program and how is it different from Foundation Course. How it is beneficial for general aspirants and working professionals. Components of ILP and how we have structured the entire program. Later he has taken general queries of the students. To Know More About Integrated Learning Program (ILP) 2022 - CLICK HERE To Watch Previous 'Weekend With Baba' Sessions - CLICK HERE P.S: 'CONNECT WITH BABA' consists of the following - Hotline, #AskBaba, Phone-a-Friend, (Monday - Friday between 10 AM to 6 PM), and 'Weekend with Baba' (Every Saturday on YouTube from 6 PM - 7 PM). To get Regular Updates from IASbaba, follow- TELEGRAM Channel – CLICK HERE YOUTUBE  –  CLICK HERE FACEBOOK  – CLICK HERE

[Day 29]: 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-29 of RaRe Series - Click here To Register - Click here For complete details of the RaRe Series -  Click here

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

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) LiDAR Based Survey of Forest Areas Part of: GS Prelims and GS -III - Sci and Tech; Environment In news Recently, the Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) of LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) based survey of forest areas in ten states was released recently. Ministry: Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate change The 10 mapped states are: Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Nagaland, and Tripura. The project was awarded to WAPCOS in July 2020 at a cost of over Rs. 18 crore for implementation in 26 states. Key observations It is a first of its kind study using LiDAR technology.  It will help augment water and fodder in jungle areas thereby reducing human-animal conflict. States will be given Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) funds to use in this project. One major ridge inside a forest block is identified in these states with an average area of 10,000 ha selected in each State. Significance of the study It will help us in identifying areas which need groundwater recharge  It will help in catching rainwater and prevent stream run-off It will help in recommending different types of Soil & Water conservation structures About LiDAR It is a remote sensing method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure ranges & variable distances. These light pulses generate precise, three-dimensional information about the shape of the Earth and its surface characteristics. It consists of a laser, a scanner, and a specialized Global Positioning System (GPS) receiver. Applications: Surveying, archaeology, geography, geomorphology, seismology, forestry, etc. 6 Years of Transformative Urban Missions Part of: GS Prelims and GS -II - Polity and governance In news Recently, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) organised an online event to commemorate six years of the three transformative Urban Missions vis. Smart Cities Mission (SCM), Atal Mission for Urban Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) and Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Urban (PMAY-U). Mission Details Progress PMAY-U It addresses urban housing shortage among the economically weaker sections and middle-income good categories including the slum dwellers by ensuring a pucca house to all by 2022 1.1 to crore houses sanctioned  For the first time interest subsidy on home loans given to MIG having annual income of up to Rs 18 lakhs credit linked subsidy scheme. Affordable rental housing complexes for urban migrants/poor launched as response to reverse migration induced by covid-19. AMRUT Aims to provide basic services like water supply, sewerage, etc. to households and build amenities in cities.  500 cities selected under AMRUT. 105 lakh household water tap and 78 lakh sewer connections have been provided.  88 LED street lights have been replaced with energy efficient LED lights against target of 101 lakh leading to energy savings of 193 crore units.  As per TERI, 84.6 lakh tonnes carbon footprint produced under AMRUT. SCM Aims to promote cities that provide core infrastructure, clean and sustainable environment to their citizens to the application of smart solutions like smart grid Smart water using IoT etc. 70 smart cities have developed and operationalized their Integrated Command and Control Centre which were used as war-rooms for covid management The World Drug Report 2021: UNODC Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II - health and GS-III - Linkage of organised crime with Terrorism In news Recently, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in its World Drug Report 2021, has highlighted that the lockdown restrictions during Covid-19 have accelerated drug trafficking using the Internet. Key findings of the report Between 2010-2019, the number of people using drugs increased by 22%, owing in part to an increase in the global population. Around 275 million people used drugs worldwide last year, while over 36 million people suffered from drug use disorders. Opioids continue to account for the largest burden of disease attributed to drug use. A rise in the non-medical use of pharmaceutical drugs was also observed during the coronavirus pandemic. In the last 24 years, cannabis potency had increased as much as four times in some parts, even as the percentage of adolescents who perceived the drug as harmful fell by as much as 40%. Access to drugs has also become simpler than ever with online sales, and major drug markets on the dark web are now worth some $315 million annually. In Asia, China and India are mainly linked to shipment of drugs sold on the 19 major darknet markets analysed over 2011-2020. About United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime It was established in 1997 and was named as a United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in 2002. It acts as the Office for Drug Control and Crime Prevention by combining the United Nations International Drug Control Program (UNDCP) and the Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Division of the United Nations Office at Vienna. Link between Air Quality and Covid-19 Part of: GS Prelims and GS -II - Health and GS III - Pollution In news For the first time, a pan-India study has found a direct correlation between air pollution and Covid-19. The study titled ‘Establishing a link between fine particulate matter (PM2.5) zones and Covid-19 over India based on anthropogenic emission sources and air quality data’ dealt with how people living in highly polluted areas are more vulnerable to coronavirus infections. The study found that areas with poor air quality and higher emissions of particulate matter (PM) 2.5 are more likely to have Covid-19 infections and related deaths. The study was conducted by scientists from various universities such as Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, National Institute of Technology Rourkela; IIT, Bhubaneswar. It was partially funded by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, the Government of India. The study involves three kinds of data sets National Emission Inventory (NEI) of PM2.5 for 2019, developed by the scientists; Number of Covid-19 positive cases and corresponding death as of 5th November, 2020. Air quality index data (in-situ observations). Important Observations The regions using huge amounts of fossil fuels such as petrol, diesel and coal by combustion in transport and industrial activities also experience a far higher number of Covid-19 cases. The novel coronavirus sticks to fine particles like PM2.5 allowing them to move from one part to another by making the airborne transmission of Covid-19 more effective. About Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 It is an atmospheric particulate matter of diameter of fewer than 2.5 micrometres, which is around 3% the diameter of a human hair. It is very small and can only be detected with the help of an electron microscope. It causes respiratory problems and also reduces visibility.  It is an endocrine disruptor that can affect insulin secretion and insulin sensitivity, thus contributing to diabetes. These particles are formed as a result of burning fuel and chemical reactions that take place in the atmosphere.  Natural processes such as forest fires also contribute to PM2.5 in the air. These particles are also the primary reason for the occurrence of smog. INS Vikrant: First Indigenous Aircraft Carrier Part of: GS Prelims and GS III - Defence and Security In news  Recently, the ongoing work on the Indigenous Aircraft Carrier (IAC), INS Vikrant (IAC-1) was reviewed, which is a part of Atmanirbhar Bharat. INS Vikrant, is likely to be commissioned in 2022.  At present, India has only one aircraft carrier, the Russian-origin INS Vikramaditya. About  INS Vikrant (IAC-1) The vessel, to be named Vikrant after the decommissioned maiden carrier of the Navy. It will have an air component of 30 aircraft, comprising MiG-29K fighter jets, Kamov-31 airborne early warning helicopters and the soon-to-be-inducted MH-60R multi-role helicopter, besides the indigenous Advanced Light Helicopters. The shipborne weapons include Barak LR SAM and AK-630, while it has MFSTAR and RAN-40L 3D radars as sensors.  It has a pair of runways and a ‘short take off but arrested recovery’ system to control aircraft operations. Significance The combat capability, reach and versatility of the aircraft carrier will add formidable capabilities in the defence and help secure India's interests in the maritime domain. It would offer an incomparable military instrument with its ability to project air power over long distances. Miscellaneous Ambergris Recently, the Mumbai Police has arrested five people and seized nearly 9 kg of Ambergris. Ambergris (French for grey amber) is generally referred to as whale vomit. It is a solid waxy substance originating in the intestine of the sperm whale. Ambergris is produced only by an estimated 1% of sperm whales. It is used in the perfume market, especially to create fragrances like musk. It is believed to be in high demand in countries like Dubai that have a large perfume market. It is also believed to be used in some traditional medicines and as a spice. The sperm whale is a protected species, hunting of the whale is not allowed.  Sperm whales are found in temperate and tropical waters throughout the world. Protection Status: IUCN Red List: Vulnerable CITES: Appendix I Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: schedule I (Mains Focus) INTERNATIONAL/ ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: GS-2: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests GS-2:  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. U.S. readying New Rules for the Tech Giants Context: Recently, the U.S. House of Representatives Judiciary Committee voted to advance six Bills outlawing business practices that sit at the core of tech companies such as Google, Facebook, Amazon and Apple. These Bills constitute the biggest action to come out of the anti-trust scrutiny these companies have been facing in the U.S. over the last few years.  While many nations have taken legal or legislative routes to limit the influence of the Big Four, this is the first major move on their home turf.  What is anti-trust? Anti-trust is an American term for laws meant to prevent unfair business practices such as monopolisation, which leads to fewer choices for consumers and higher prices. Example of Anti-Trust - Microsoft Microsoft was sued in 1998 for giving away the Internet Explorer web browser for free with its Windows operating system, which led to the collapse of browser-maker Netscape.  Microsoft was found guilty of using its market dominance in operating systems to build a monopoly in browsers and was forced to open up Windows to other developers. Problem of Anti-Trust with new age companies Currently rise in consumer prices is the accepted indicator of unfair practices. However, the actions of companies like Google and Facebook that make money off advertising and give many products away for free, makes it difficult to gauge the anti-competitive practices of them The new package of six Bills that is now in Congress is an attempt to add more teeth to anti-trust proceedings against new-age tech firms. What’s in the Bills? The Platform Competition and Opportunity Act would prevent big tech companies from nipping competition in the bud by buying up smaller rivals, like what Facebook had done by buying up Instagram for $1 billion. The Ending Platform Monopolies Act would prevent companies from becoming players on their own platforms, like how Amazon sells its own brands, competing with smaller retailers that use its e-commerce platform; Apple’s chokehold over developers on App Store is another example. The Augmenting Compatibility and Competition by Enabling Service Switching (ACCESS) Act promotes interoperability, forcing platforms to let users take data such as contacts lists and profile information with them while migrating to other platforms. The Merger Filing Fee Modernization Act increases the government fee on large corporate mergers to help fund anti-trust law enforcement. The American Innovation and Choice Online Act would prevent companies from giving preferences to their own products in the marketplaces they run, such as Google search results prioritising YouTube videos or Amazon highlighting its own brands. The State Antitrust Enforcement Venue Act would prevent companies from shifting anti-trust cases to courts that could be favourable to them. How will the move impact India? Ripple Effect: Any behavioural change that these companies may be forced to adopt in the U.S, which is their largest market, would likely be adopted in all their global markets as well. More Teeth to similar Indian Laws: India already has versions of some of these laws such as the one that prevents Amazon from selling brands that it owns on its platform. Such rules & laws will get further legitimacy when US passes its bills. Level Playing Field: If implemented globally, a level playing field for brand visibility on Google and Amazon will benefit retailers in India. Connecting the dots: New IT rules Draft E-Commerce Rules Dominance of Big tech Australia’s News Media Bargaining Code Google’s Search Monopoly POLITY/ GOVERNANCE/ SECURITY Topic: GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.  Current Challenges of Indian Economy Context: As the Indian economy is completing the first quarter of the current financial year, policy makers need to understand the current challenges which Indian economy is facing so to take remedial measures. Let’s have a look at the current challenges. 1: Two years worth of GDP growth has been lost Image Source: Indian Express In 2019-20, India’s GDP was Rs 146 trillion. In other words, India had produced goods and services worth Rs 146 trillion that year.  Then, in the last financial year — that is, in 2020-21 — it fell to Rs 135 trillion.  In the current financial year — that is, in 2021-22 — the GDP is expected to grow back to Rs 146 trillion after registering a growth of 8.3%.  This would mean that, in terms of overall economic production, India would have lost two full years of growth.  if there was no Covid disruption and India grew by even 6% in both these years, the total GDP would have reached the level of Rs 164 trillion — that is, Rs 18 trillion more than where India is likely to end up now. 2. Both retail and wholesale inflation is trending up Image Source: Indian Express Headline retail inflation stayed above the RBI’s comfort zone (2% to 6%) between November 2019 and November 2020. But, after a brief period of relief, it has again crossed the 6%-mark in May this year. Even the core inflation —calculated by taking away the price rise in fuel and food items- has remained consistently close to RBI’s upper limit. In May, WPI inflation was nearly 13%. In other words, even the wholesale prices were rising at the rate of 13%. 3: Poor credit offtake in the commercial sector Image Source: Indian Express The biggest engine of GDP in the Indian economy is the expenditure that Indians undertake in their private capacity. This demand for goods and services accounts for more than 55% of all GDP in a year. Even before Covid, the Indian economy had reached a stage where the common man was holding back this expenditure.  The Covid pandemic has made that trend worse with people either losing jobs or salaries being reduced in the midst of increased health expenses. In the absence of consumer spending, the country’s businessmen — both big and small — are holding back new investments and refusing to seek new loans. 4: Inadequate spending by the government Image Source: Indian Express Given that domestic consumers are holding back consumption and domestic businesses are holding back investments (the second-biggest engine of GDP growth), it was incumbent on the third-biggest engine of India’s GDP growth — that is, the government — to spend more and pull the economy out of the current slowdown. After being forced to spend more in 2020-21, the government has actually pulled back (as a proportion of GDP) in 2021-22. It is for this reason that its deficit will fall in FY22 as against FY21. Conclusion The impacts of this [Covid shock] are more long term than one might imagine and the government has to take expansionary fiscal policy so as to revive the economy. Connecting the dots: Employment & Recovery of Indian Economy Recession in India (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 LiDAR: It is a remote sensing method that uses light in the form of a pulsed laser to measure ranges & variable distances. These light pulses generate precise, three-dimensional information about the shape of the Earth and its surface characteristics. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), in its World Drug Report 2021 Opioids continue to account for the largest burden of disease attributed to drug use. A rise in the non-medical use of pharmaceutical drugs was also observed during the coronavirus pandemic. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2  Neither 1 nor 2  Q.3 WHich of the following is IUCN Red List status of Sperm Whale? Vulnerable Endangered Least concern Extinct  ANSWERS FOR 26th June 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 C 3 A Must Read On LGBTQ+: The Hindu On Hunger & Climate Change: Financial Express On Police Reforms: Livemint

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz – 2021 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 28th JUNE 2021

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

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 2 Questions [28th JUNE,2021] – Day 121

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 2 Questions [28th JUNE,2021] – Day 121 TLP (Phase 1) just got over on 8th May (Saturday) and we are extremely thankful for your active participation to make this program a success. Well, though TLP (Phase 1) got over, ‘Picture abhi baaqi hai mere dost’. There is a surprise for you. Since prelims is bound to get delayed once again this year, its not wise to leave the writing practice just now. Hence, we are extending the TLP program  We will be posting 3 questions per day (Monday to Friday). The questions will be based on Current Affairs, so that you don’t have to invest your time separately on exclusively mains oriented topics. So, keep practicing and keep improving. To Know More about TLP  -> CLICK HERE For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Note: Click on Each Question (Link), it will open in a new tab and then Answer respective questions! 1. The Comptroller and Auditor General is an important pillar of constitutional democracy in India. Do you agree? Substantiate. (10 Marks) नियंत्रक और महालेखा परीक्षक भारत में संवैधानिक लोकतंत्र का एक महत्वपूर्ण स्तंभ है। क्या आप सहमत हैं? पुष्टि करें। 2. What challenges does India’s federal polity pose to good governance and reforms in the fields of agriculture, policing and ease of doing business? Analyse with the help of suitable examples. (10 Marks) भारत की संघीय राजनीति कृषि, पुलिसिंग और व्यापार करने में आसानी के क्षेत्र में सुशासन और सुधारों के लिए कौन सी चुनौतियों का सामना करती है? उपयुक्त उदाहरणों की सहायता से विश्लेषण कीजिए। 3. Cooperative federalism is the only democratic way for the smooth functioning of Centre-State interactions. Illustrate. (15 Marks) केंद्र-राज्य की बातचीत के सुचारू संचालन के लिए सहकारी संघवाद एकमात्र लोकतांत्रिक तरीका है। चित्रण करें। AWARE ( Answer Writing REdefined) Series - 7 Steps to Master Answer Writing Skills by Mohan Sir - CLICK HERE P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm every day. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each other's answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best :)

[INTERVIEW INITIATIVE] Think, Rethink and Perform (TRP) [DAY 20] 2020 for UPSC/IAS Personality Test!

ARCHIVES (of TRP) - > CLICK HERE Those who have appeared for UPSC Mains 2020, fill up the Google form given below. Students who fill the form will be added to a telegram group so that there can be healthy discussions with other students who will be appearing for the Interview/Personality Test. Also, Mohan sir, Bureaucrats and Ex-Bureaucrats will be interacting one on one with all the students who will be appearing for the same. REGISTER HERE – CLICK HERE   Interview Discussion: Think, Rethink and Perform; (TRP)- Day 20 Set 1: Ask these questions to yourself; contemplate and come out with a concrete answer (not to be discussed on this forum). Invest at least 30 minutes on this set of questions.  What does greatness mean to you?  How can can a person become great? What makes someone great- ideas or deeds?  Have you done anything great in your life? Don’t you aspire to become a great person?  Set 2: Analyse the following issue:  What are your views on the issue of freedom of expression over the internet. Are regulations needed to control speech in the virtual space? Is it possible to strike a balance between freedom of expression and sovereign regulation of the internet? Do you see any danger in the ongoing discourse? What precautions would you take to ensure that a right balance is maintained?  We expect you to discuss the above question (Set 2) in the comments below and come out with a balanced view of the issues. Thank You IASbaba

Important Articles

[WEEK 6] ETHICS THEORY & CASE STUDIES | BRAINSTORMING ON ETHICS & ESSAY (BEE) by Sunil Oberoi Sir

Dear Students, As part of our new initiative, BRAINSTORMING ON ETHICS & ESSAY (BEE), here we have come up with the Sixth session. BEE is a FREE ONLINE (YOUTUBE) initiative, exclusively for Essay and Ethics curated by IASbaba’s renowned faculty member, Shri Sunil Oberoi Sir (former IAS Officer). The Sixth session focuses on the theme, 'ETHICS THEORY & CASE STUDIES'. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5hwp75WpNtI   Sunil Oberoi Sir has worked on Civil Services Reforms in India with UNDP and DoPT. He was a government nominee in interview boards and Examiner in various govt. exams. He was also associated with induction training of new entrants of Civil Services and In-Service training of Senior Civil Servants. To Know More about BEE Initiative -> CLICK HERE Download the schedule: Click Here For Any Queries: Email id: offline@iasbaba.com / support@iasbaba.com Mobile No: 91691 91888 (Please call between 10 am – 6 pm ONLY) Thank You IASbaba 

IASbaba's Courses

[ADMISSIONS OPEN] ILP 2022 - INTEGRATED LEARNING PROGRAM – The Most Comprehensive and Trusted ONLINE Course

WHAT IS INTEGRATED LEARNING PROGRAMME (ILP) 2022? ILP 2022 is the Most Comprehensive ONLINE Programme for UPSC aspirants which caters to all the stages of the exam (Prelims, Mains & Interview). ILP acts as your companion in preparation, ever ready and capable to help you at each stage of your preparation – day by day, hour by hour. It reduces your efforts; micro manages your time in the most productive way and allocates your attention in a well-defined priority. It makes your preparation planned, seamless and enjoyable! OBJECTIVESILP is an effort towards assisting an aspirant sitting at the remotest part of the country to crack UPSC with a ‘single-digit rank’.To come up with something which can integrate your preparation in a common string of theme-based understanding of concepts.For More Details - CLICK HERETO ENROLL - ILP 2022 - CLICK HEREILP 2022 (WITH MENTORSHIP) - CLICK HERE