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Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education In News: Reaching out to the Members of Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu elaborated on the importance of strong foundational skills in the first language in the initial years of informal learning at home. Describing the first learned and spoken mother tongue as the ‘soul of life’, Vice President of India and Chairman of Rajya Sabha has passionately urged all the Members of Parliament to actively contribute to the cause of preservation and promotion of Indian languages. Cause of Concern Though the use of mother languages as mediums of instruction in school and higher education has been armoured from pre-Independence times, sadly, the number of those desiring to study in English has been multiplying exponentially. This has led to the burgeoning of monolingual educational institutes governed by the English language and is creating a society that is far from sensitive, just and equitable. The nature of dominance of English over all other mother languages is allied to power, status and identity of students. Students speaking different mother languages come together to study in an educational institute where they interact with each other without any difficulties at both school and higher education level. Yet they are being taught monolingually through a foreign language that not all students are able to associate with. The whole process has led to the ignorance of mother languages and a feeling of disassociation among students. Mother Tongue Based Multi-Lingual Education (MTBMLE): It could play a key role in preserving tribal languages, claim linguistic experts. Ignoring mother tongue- based intervention in early childhood for tribal children could potentially impede the early childhood learning process. Many languages that are kept out of Eighth Schedule are in some ways more deserving to be included in the Schedule. For Example: Sanskrit, an Eighth Schedule language, has only 24,821 speakers (2011 Census). Manipuri, another scheduled language, has only 17,61,079 speakers. Similarly, many unscheduled languages have a sizeable number of speakers: Bhili/Bhilodi has 1,04,13,637 speakers; Gondi has 29,84,453 speakers; Garo has 11,45,323; Ho has 14,21,418; Khandeshi, 18,60,236; Khasi, 14,31,344; and Oraon, 19,88,350. Need to teach children in their mother tongue According to the National University of Education, Planning and Administration, the number of children studying in English medium schools in India increased by an astonishing 273% between 2003 and 2011. Their parents think they know exactly what they are doing and why: they believe that knowledge of English is key to job security and upward mobility, and they are convinced that their children’s opportunities will increase in direct proportion to their English vocabularies. They are right, but they are also totally wrong. Knowing English helps a lot in getting a good job, but only if that English is meaningful, accompanied by understanding and fundamental knowledge in all the other things children go to school to learn. The English used in most Indian schools simply does not allow for any real learning to take place. The subject is complex and fascinating. Given India’s linguistic diversity, the dream of a common language is quiet powerful. And English seems to many the only solution. Yet the results so far are abysmal. In the 2009 Program for International Student Assessment (PISA), India scored 75th out of 77 countries. This is an overall indicator of how schools are performing and does not specifically implicate English as a culprit. PISA continues to rank countries around the world, but after its 2009 humiliation, India has refused to participate, citing cultural inappropriateness in the testing. Keeping its head in the sand is one approach. But India’s primary education is notorious for its rote learning, poorly trained teachers and lack of funding (India spends only 2.6% of its GDP on education; China spends 4.1 and Brazil is more than double India’s at 5.7). English as the language of instruction makes all of it worse – developmentally, it is a disaster. Consider school from the child’s perspective. Most kids are tiny when they set off from home. For the first time in their lives, they have to cope in a strange environment for many hours with a large number of other children whom they do not know. They must sit still, be quiet and speak only on command. The teacher, who is also a stranger, expects children to master completely new concepts: reading and writing; addition and subtraction; photosynthesis; the difference between a city and state and country. Other countries do not do this to their children – China, France, Germany, Holland or Spain – all countries where English is commonly mastered as a second language – and one will find primary education happening in the dominant language of the area. At the moment, only about 17% of Indian children are in English medium schools. Current trends suggest that this figure will rise exponentially in the coming decade (Bihar saw a rise of 4700% in just five years). While the research is clear that children learn best in their own mother tongues, there are other compelling arguments as well, particularly in India. Classrooms are only as good as their teachers – in India, in 2012, 91% of the teachers currently serving in both private and government schools were unable to pass a national eligibility test. With this level of incompetence, we still expect them to teach in a language they are likely weak in themselves. Conclusion The language of instruction should simply be a vehicle, an effortless flow of grammar and words which everyone absorbs without having to puzzle it through for meaning and definition. Science, maths and literacy are hard enough as it is without adding so many layers of complexity. The country needs its next generation of leaders to master their fundas thoroughly so they can go on to practise medicine, build bridges, put in plumbing and design solar lighting systems. And children can learn second, third and fourth languages all in good time. But that will happen only if those youngsters grow up loving language, not feeling threatened and judged by it. We need them to write poetry and songs and novels. We need them to feel proud of their mother tongues, not apologetic and ashamed as if their intelligence is based on how much English they know. Must Read: Three-language formula: History and Analysis Connecting the dots: Languages are an important identity of India’s liberal and democratic society. Elaborate Why should children learn in their mother tongue? Discuss. UNESCO has created a list of endangered languages of India where 42 languages have been listed as critically endangered. In the light of above fact discuss why is it important for India to protect its regional languages? What measures can be taken to prevent the extinction of local languages?
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
For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 1 Questions [16th JUNE,2021] – Day 113 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. Differentiate between cyclones and tornadoes? In terms of occurrence, do you find a difference between the global distribution of cyclones and tornadoes? Examine.(10 Marks) चक्रवात और बवंडर में अंतर बताएं? इनके घटित होने के संदर्भ में, क्या आप चक्रवातों और बवंडर के वैश्विक वितरण के बीच अंतर पाते हैं? जांच करें। 2. Why do some regions in the oceans have greater density of fishes than the others? Do ocean currents play a role in this phenomenon? Explain with the help of suitable examples.(10 Marks) महासागरों के कुछ क्षेत्रों में अन्य क्षेत्रों की तुलना में मछलियों का घनत्व अधिक क्यों होता है? क्या इस घटना में महासागरीय धाराएँ भूमिका निभाती हैं? उपयुक्त उदाहरणों की सहायता से स्पष्ट कीजिए। 3. What do you understand by ‘salt budget’? Examine the factors that affect the salinity of oceans.(15 Marks) 'लवण बजट' से आप क्या समझते हैं? महासागरों की लवणता को प्रभावित करने वाले कारकों का परीक्षण कीजिए। 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 :)
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 18 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. Can a person afford to be honest in the present system? What according to you are the factors hat force one to indulge in corrupt practices? Would you be able to practice integrity? How? Set 2: Analyse the following issue: The COVID-19 pandemic has seriously hurt the economy. Many renowned economists are suggesting to print money to revive the economy. What are your views on this? Will it be prudent to print currency at this stage? Think from the perspective of inflation v/s demand conundrum. 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
For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE SYNOPSIS [15th JUNE,2021] Day 112: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies) 1. Do you think the federal political structure in India creates roadblocks in the Central Government’s policies and interventions for development in various sectors? Critically examine. Approach The answer should first explain the meaning of federalism. Candidates should critically examine and elaborate on how various Central government policies faces roadblocks due to federal structure and then how due to federalism there is development in various sector. Introduction Federalism is a system of government in which the power is divided between a central authority and various constituent units of the country. Usually, a federation has two levels of government. One is the government for the entire country that is usually responsible for a few subjects of common national interest. The others are governments at the level of provinces or states that look after much of the day-to-day administering of their state. Both these levels of governments enjoy their power independent of the other. Body Federalism is a system of government where there is a division of power between a central authority and constituent political units (state). The respective authorities are considered supreme in their allotted spheres (Schedule VII). Trust deficit between Centre and States is widening. Most state governments believe the thrust on federalism is limited to lofty ideas and big talks. Many States have shown their displeasure with the way the Centre has been dealing with the States. However, such federal structure restricts the policies & implementation of Central government in various sectors like: Taxation GST Council: If the central government want to increase or decrease GST rates it has to get the support of states, which may restrict its taxation abilities. In GST Council Central government enjoys 33% vote while the states account for 66% and any major decision requires 75% support. Police reforms and Law & Order: Lack of uniformity in police procedures and lack of effective coordination amongst various State Police departments is hindering Central government’s capabilities to handle inter-state crimes which has impact on National Security. Ex Counter Terrorism Operations. Agricultural marketing Sector: Lack of unified agricultural market along with state’s reluctance to adopt Model APMC Act and their lack of enthusiasm to join e-NAM platform has restricted Centre’s capabilities to objective of doubling farmer’s income by 2022. Health Sector: Central government’s initiative of Ayushman Bharat to provide Universal health coverage is also hindered by some states refusing to join the centrally sponsored scheme New Education Policy: Central government wants Uniform standards of education across the country so as to ensure accessibility and equity in access to education across the country. However, Southern States are objecting on the issue of three-language policy mooted in NEP. Land and Labour Laws: In order to boost investment and attract FDI to increase the economic activity, Central government wants a more relaxed labour & land regulation. However, State governments frame their own laws to suit their needs & thus varies from one State to another, which negatively impacts the transaction & expansion costs of companies. Even as Indian federalism has a bias for the Union government, states have also sought to assert their interests and influence over the years, whether in times of one-party dominance or multi-party coalition politics it led to development in various sectors: The open market economy deregulated the economic interactions which were earlier strongly controlled by the Union government. Benefitted by the reforms, the state governments now got relative autonomy to initiate business endeavours and bring in foreign investments to their respective states. This polity gave state chief ministers a political opportunity to project themselves as ‘drivers of growth and development’. The federalism phase also witnessed further decentralisation of Indian politics as the 73rd and 74th Amendments were passed in 1992 to strengthen the functioning of the third tier of Indian federalism in the Municipal and Panchayat level. This strengthened the ground for the empowerment the people at the grassroots. The most important moment for federalism in this phase is the revelation of the vital role of state governments on the ground in managing the COVID-19 crisis. After initial challenges, the Union government ceded adequate space and autonomy to the states for strengthening their healthcare facilities, managing the localised lockdowns, and implementing social security measures to mitigate the impact of the pandemic. The core objectives of Indian federalism are unity in diversity, devolution in authority, and decentralization in administration. Through federalism, the State pursues the goal of common welfare in the midst of wide diversity in socio-cultural, economic spheres. India needs a Cooperative federalism: In Cooperative federalism the Centre and states share a horizontal relationship, where they “cooperate” in the larger public interest. It is an important tool to enable states’ participation in the formulation and implementation of national policies. While all policy-makers and economists believe that “true” cooperative federalism is the way forward, they underline the need for the Centre to include states more aggressively in the decision-making process. Conclusion What is seldom recognised is that the degree of federalism in India has depended largely on two variables: the nature of political coalitions at the Centre and role of States in such coalitions (the period 1996 to 2014 for example), and the cultural diversity of regions. Hence, what is needed is a federal coalition that looks beyond the legal-constitutional aspects of federalism to preserve the idea of a plural India in terms of both culture and politics. 2. Parliament of the country is the repository of the sovereign will of the people and its successful functioning is a joint responsibility of both the government and the opposition. In this light, examine the role of the Speaker. Approach Candidates should write about how the Indian parliament is a repository of the sovereign will of people and then examine the role of the speaker in managing parliamentary affairs with neutrality. Candidates can write challenges faced by speaker and then conclude. Introduction As K R Narayanan noted ‘Parliament is the head and front of body politik in India’. The quality of governance depends on the effective working of the parliament with the ruling and opposition working in tandem complimenting each other. Speaker, in this light acts as a neutral umpire passing impartial decisions ensuring the smooth working of the parliament. Body The government has to understand that the role of the opposition is of checks and balances. They must facilitate ample amount of time for discussions and deliberations and accommodate diverse views of the opposition. On the other hand, opposition has to understand their role which includes constructive criticism, ensuring quality debates, representation of their respective constituency and help in sustainable and inclusive development. Role of the speaker: The role of speaker is vital to balance the practical functioning of government and the constructive role of the opposition. Speaker is the head of the Lok Sabha, guardian of powers and privileges of the members, the House as a whole and its committees. He has to maintain order and decorum in the house for conducting the business and regulate the proceedings so that the parliament doesn’t become a place for wasteful discussions. For instance, the 2017 winter session was a washout as there were severe disruptions and speaker was not able to maintain decorum. He has the responsibility to ensure fair opportunity for the opposition to air their views. E.g. in the latest budget session, the speaker allotted time for every newly elected MPs. He is the final interpreter of the provisions of the Constitution of India, the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business of Lok Sabha, and the parliamentary precedents within the House. He adjourns the House or suspends the meeting in absence of a quorum. Thus, he ensures the discussions happening have maximum views including the opposition. He exercises casting vote to resolve deadlock. Also, he presides over a joint sitting of the two Houses of Parliament. He can allow a ‘secret’ sitting of the House at the request of the Leader of the House and thus is responsible to maintain secrecy in sensitive matters. He decides whether a bill is a money bill or not. Objectivity in the matter is necessary failing which the opposition role is diluted and also the Rajyasabha is made a concerned spectator. He decides the questions of disqualification of a member of the Lok Sabha, arising on the ground of defection under the provisions of the Tenth Schedule. By this function, he upholds the freedom of expression of legislators who often stay mute on party lines fearing disqualification. As ex-officio chairman of the Indian parliamentary group, he acts as a link between the parliament of India and various parliaments of the world. This also provides insight to legislators on international functioning of other legislatures and hence improve quality of the parliamentary functioning. As the appointing authority of the parliamentary committees, he ensures the detailed scrutiny of the bills, budgetary allocations etc., and hence help in holding the government accountable. The selections of members and chairman objectively are necessary. Challenges faced by speaker in handling the affairs: The office of speaker is paradoxical in nature as speaker, whether in Parliament or in State Assemblies, contests the election for the post on a party ticket. Also, the need for re-election compel speaker to favour their political party also pushes them to compromise neutrality. However, the role of the presiding officers has become increasingly politicized. Thereby creating doubts over Speaker's role vis-à-vis anti-defection law being biased, as recently seen in the Karnataka political crisis. In recent times, there are number of instances where the role of speaker has been criticized for decision on membership of MLAs under the anti-defection law and their ruling have been challenged in courts. With the increase in the multitude of parties, the time available to each party to represent its interests during discussions is reduced. The time spent on issues, which parties wish to move for discussions, increases, even when the number of sittings in Parliament has not increased proportionately. This aggravates the constraints faced by the Speaker in prioritising between matters and often faces the allegation of partisan. With no security in the continuity of office, the Speaker is dependent on his or her political party for reelection. This makes the Speaker susceptible to pulls and pressures from her/his political party in the conduct of the proceedings of the Lok Sabha. In recent time speaker uses its discretionary power to pass many important bills on day after introduction of bill without proper discussion and references. Way forward: One mechanism to increase efficiency and trust in the Speaker is to increase transparency in his decision-making process. On exercise of its power during anti defection law Speaker should act against those legislators who defy the party whip while voting on matters that impact government stability. Anyone seeking the office of the Speaker might be asked to run for election on an independent ticket. Also, Speaker should be barred from future political office, except for the post of President, while being given a pension for life. Conclusion A watchful Parliament forms the foundation of a well-functioning democracy. The presiding officers of Parliament are the key to securing the effectiveness of this institution. It is expected of a distinguished occupant of this chair now and always to guard the freedom and liberty of those from every possible danger, even from the danger of an executive incursion. 3. What are the challenges associated with India’s linguistic identity today? Analyse. Has the Constitution been able to address the potential conflicts arising out of linguistic diversity of India? Critically examine. Approach Candidates should try to write first about Indian linguistics diversity and then write about challenges associated with it. Then critically examine whether constitution has addressed the potential conflicts. Introduction India is a land of many languages, boasting of 22 languages accepted by the Constitution and many more languages and regional dialects. Even the States were organized on linguistic basis, making it an important part of the Indian social and political fabric. Body Challenges with India’s linguistic identity: Single Indian language for the entire country and imposition of Hindi as national language is not welcomed by all states. India has a long history of linguistic unrest, for example creation of Andhra Pradesh post-independence, separation of Maharashtra and Gujarat etc. There is a north-south divide on the basis of language where languages of southern states are treated as their identity. This causes the regionalism feeling at large. Not all languages get due representation in the state. For example: tribal languages in the Jharkhand and other states. Demand of small states as we have seen recently in West Bengal when they imposed Bengali on the Gorkhaland people, they started agitation against the move and then the separate state agitation got ignited. Discrimination in state government and central governments in the employments, example non-marathis feel discriminated in Maharashtra government services. Conflict over 3-language formula, where state language and English are accepted but there is no consensus over Hindi. Not everywhere education is in the native languages, especially for tribals, language is the biggest barrier for them to get educated as they do not understand mainstream languages and there is lack of tribal language teachers and translators. Exploitation of people by the politicians due to linguistic diversity, as it not only binds the masses but also divides people politically. Constitution has addressed the potential conflicts due to linguistic diversity in following ways: Article 29 and 30 provides for protection of cultural and educational rights for linguistic minorities. Article 343 provides for Hindi to be the official language of the union along with Article 351 that gives directive for development of Hindi language to fulfill aspirations of majority of the population. Under Article 345 states are free to choose their official language. Article 346 talks about use of ‘authorised’ language for communication between states and Union and on agreement Hindi may also be used. For protecting linguistic interests of minorities, Article 347, provides for special provision where President can direct a language to be the official language of the state if he is convinced that a substantial portion of population speaks the language. Special officer for linguistic minorities under Article 350-B to investigate all matters related to the safeguards provided for linguistic minorities under the Constitution. Also, eighth schedule provides for 22 recognised official languages that represent the regional and cultural diversity of the country. Despite the above provisions, Constitution has not addressed all potential conflicts: As per the People's Linguistic Survey of India (PLSI), there are 780 languages being spoken in the country. However, not all languages get due recognition and is not practical also. Imposition of majority language like Hindi and English over regional languages. No autonomy for a district/s to have its own language, if a majority of population speaks it. Such autonomy can prevent demand for smaller states. In a globalizing world where Hindi and English hold currency, mother tongues are becoming endangered. The government doesn't acknowledge they exist nor are they taught in schools. People who speak minority languages or 'mother tongues' are too old or not interested in passing them on to their kids. Other Measures to preserve linguistic diversity: Promoting universal acceptance for international domain names: According to UNESCO, Internationalised Domain Names (IDNs) can help to foster the growth of local languages online by allowing Internet users to use non-Latin scripts to access domain names. Engage indigenous people: To realise the rights and aspirations of indigenous people, it would be necessary that the government should engage and support indigenous people in determining their own development through policies that are inclusive, equitable and accessible. Awareness: The internet can be used to raise awareness about the issues of language extinction and language preservation. It can be used to translate, catalog, store, and provide information and access to languages. Conclusion Linguistic diversity has been a critical aspect of the multiculturalism that has been the defining characteristic of India through the ages. In recent years the language diversity is under threat as speakers of diverse languages are becoming rare and major languages are adopted after abandoning the mother tongues. The problem needs to be addressed at societal level, in which the communities have to take part in conservation of language diversity that is part of cultural wealth and bonds. This encourages reciprocity and secures an enriched value system of unity amongst people of different States. TLP Synopsis Day 112 PDF
Archives Topic: General Studies 2: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Background The grouping’s informal origins can be traced to 2004. In the wake of the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami, Australia, India, Japan and the US launched an ad-hoc humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) mission, which allowed them to come together operationally. Since then the four navies have worked together on several occasions. The Quad was formally initiated in 2007 at the prompting of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzō Abe. Formal Quad meetings were not possible following strong objections from China in 2007. In 2020, all four QUAD Countries - Japan, India, Australia and the USA took part in the Malabar exercise. Malabar exercise is an annual trilateral naval exercise between the navies of India, Japan, and the USA which is held alternately in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. During the meeting: During the first-ever virtual summit on Friday, QUAD ((Quadrilateral Framework) leaders discussed regional and global issues of shared interest, and exchange views on practical areas of cooperation towards maintaining a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. A. The Quad Vaccine Partnership While ensuring that vaccines have been made available to our people, “Quad” partners will launch a landmark partnership to further accelerate the end of the Covid-19 pandemic. Together, Quad leaders are taking shared action necessary to expand safe and effective Covid-19 vaccine manufacturing in 2021, and will work together to strengthen and assist countries in the Indo-Pacific with vaccination, in close coordination with the existing relevant multilateral mechanisms including WHO and COVAX. Drawing on each of their strengths, they will tackle this complex issue with multi-sectoral cooperation across many stages of action, starting with ensuring global availability of safe and effective vaccines. Quad partners are working collaboratively to achieve expanded manufacturing of safe and effective Covid-19 vaccines at facilities in India, prioritizing increased capacity for vaccines authorized by Stringent Regulatory Authorities (SRA). Quad partners will address financing and logistical demands for production, procurement, and delivery of safe and effective vaccines. They will work to use our shared tools and expertise, through mechanisms at institutions including the United States Development Finance Corporation (DFC), Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), and, as appropriate, Japan Bank of International Cooperation (JBIC), as well as others. What role will all four countries play? Australia will contribute US$77 million for the provision of vaccines and “last-mile” delivery support with a focus on Southeast Asia, in addition to its existing commitment of US$407 million for regional vaccine access and health security which will provide full vaccine coverage to nine Pacific Island countries and Timor-Leste, and support procurement, prepare for vaccine delivery, and strengthen health systems in Southeast Asia. Japan will assist vaccination programs of developing countries such as the purchase of vaccines and cold-chain support including through provision of grant aid of $41 million and new concessional yen loans, ensuring alignment with and support of COVAX. The United States will leverage existing programs to further boost vaccination capability, drawing on at least $100 million in regional efforts focused on immunization. This commitment will be implemented by the launch of a senior-level Quad Vaccine Experts Group, comprised of top scientists and officials from our governments. This group will support Quad cooperation in the long term, and use science and evidence to: Design an implementation plan for the Quad COVID-19 vaccine effort; Identify hurdles impeding vaccine administration in the region; Work with financers and production facilities to monitor timely and sufficient capacity expansion that will lead to wider distribution of safe and effective vaccines; Share governmental plans to support Indo-Pacific health security and Covid-19 response, and identify practical cooperation on “last-mile” delivery for hard-to-reach communities in need; Strengthen and support the life-saving work of international organizations, including the WHO, COVAX, Gavi, CEPI, UNICEF, the G7, ASEAN, and governments, and call on other countries to do the same; Make additional concrete recommendations before the end of the year. B. The Quad Climate Working Group The climate challenge has been identified as a priority for the Quad and the Indo-Pacific region. They will establish a new Quad Climate Working Group focused on: Cooperation, both among ourselves and with other countries, to strengthen implementation of the Paris Agreement, including to keep a Paris-aligned temperature limit within reach Working together and with other countries to support, strengthen, and enhance actions globally; Committing to advancing low-emissions technology solutions to support emissions reduction; Cooperation on climate mitigation, adaptation, resilience, technology, capacity-building, and climate finance C. The Quad Critical and Emerging Technology Working Group Quad leaders recognize that a free, open, inclusive, and resilient Indo-Pacific requires that critical and emerging technology is governed and operates according to shared interests and values. In that spirit, they will convene a Critical and Emerging Technology Working Group, which will: Develop a statement of principles on technology design, development, and use; Facilitate coordination on technology standards development, including between our national technology standards bodies and working with a broad range of partners; Encourage cooperation on telecommunications deployment, diversification of equipment suppliers, and future telecommunications, including through close cooperation with our private sectors and industry; Facilitate cooperation to monitor trends and opportunities related to developments in critical and emerging technology, including biotechnology; Convene dialogues on critical technology supply chains.
Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) 47th G7 Summit Part of: GS Prelims and GS -II - International Relations In news Recently, the Indian Prime Minister addressed the 47th G7 Summit 2021 through video conferencing. G7 is an informal intergovernmental organisation of seven countries - US, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and UK. It represents 40% of the global GDP In 2021 Summit India, South Africa, Australia and South Korea were invited as guest countries. Significant outcomes of the Summit known as Carbis Bay Declaration G7 shall secure more than 1 billion covid-19 vaccine doses either through donating surplus supplies funds or providing further finance to Covax, a scheme backed by UN to distribute vaccines to low and middle-income countries It shall increase the climate finance contributions and meet and overdue spending pledge of dollar hundred billion a year to help poor countries cut carbon emissions Infrastructure plan was announced to rival China's Belt and Road initiative by supporting project such as Railways in Africa and wind farms in Asia It backed a minimum tax of at least 15% on large multinational companies to stop them from using tax havens to avoid taxes India has sought G7’s support for the proposal made at the WTO by India and South Africa for a TRIPS waiver on covid related Technologies. Source: BBC PASIPHAE: A Sky Surveying Project Part of: GS Prelims and GS -III - Sci & Tech In news The Wide Area Linear Optical Polarimeter (WALOP) is being developed at Inter-University Centre for Astronomy and Astrophysics (IUCAA), India. WALOP is a vital instrument for the PASIPHAE Project. Polar-Areas Stellar-Imaging in Polarisation High-Accuracy Experiment (PASIPHAE) is an international collaborative sky surveying project. About the PASIPHAE Survey It is an opto polarimetric survey It aims to measure the linear polarization from millions of stars. The survey will use two high-tech optical polarimeters to observe the northern and southern skies, simultaneously. The survey will be conducted concurrently from the South African Astronomical Observatory in Sutherland, South Africa in the southern hemisphere, and the Skinakas Observatory in Crete, Greece, in the north. Importance of the Project It will be used to perform magnetic tomography of the Milky Way Galaxy. Tomography is a technique for displaying a representation of a cross section through a solid object using X-rays or ultrasound. It will deduce the 3-dimensional structure of the magnetic field and the dust that resides in the Galaxy. About WALOP The WALOP will be capable of observing hundreds of stars concurrently present both in the northern and the southern skies. It will operate on the principle that at any given time, the data from a portion of the sky under observation will be split into four different channels. Depending on the manner in which light passes through the four channels, the polarisation value from the star is obtained. Operation Oliva for Olive Ridley Turtles Part of: GS Prelims and GS -III - Conservation In news Recently, the Indian Coast Guard has pressed into service an aircraft for 'Operation Oliva' to protect Olive Ridley turtles. What is Operation Oliva It was initiated in the early 1980s Every year, Operation Olivia helps protect Olive Ridley turtles as they congregate along the Odisha coast for breeding and nesting from November to December. Olive Ridley Turtles These are the smallest and most abundant of all sea turtles found in the world. They are carnivores They migrate thousands of kilometers between feeding and mating grounds in the course of a year. They are best known for their unique mass nesting called Arribada, where thousands of females come together on the same beach to lay eggs. Habitat: They are found in warm waters of the Pacific, Atlantic and Indian oceans. The Odisha’s Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary is known as the world’s largest rookery of sea turtles. IUCN Red List: Vulnerable CITES: Appendix I Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972: Schedule I Other Initiatives To reduce accidental killing in India, the Odisha government has made it mandatory for trawls to use Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), a net specially designed with an exit cover which allows the turtles to escape while retaining the catch. Source: Olive Ridley Project Innovations for Defence Excellence Part of: GS Prelims and GS -III - Defence and Security In news Recently, the Defence Minister has approved the budgetary support of Rs. 498.8 crore to Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) challenge under the Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) for the next five years. About iDEX It was launched by the Prime Minister in April 2018. It aims to achieve self - reliance and foster innovation and technology development in Defence and Aerospace. It engages Industries including MSMEs, start-ups, individual innovators, R&D institutes and academia. Funded and managed by: DIO It also functions as the executive arm of DIO. DIO is a ‘not for profit’ company registered under Section 8 of the Companies Act 2013. Founding members: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) & Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) - Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs). It will provide the engaging industries with funding and other support to carry out Research & Development. iDEX has partnered with leading incubators in the country to provide hand holding, technical support and guidance to the winners of iDEX challenges. Modifications in FAME II Scheme Part of: GS Prelims and GS III - Economy In news Department of Heavy Industry (DHI) has recently modified FAME II scheme. Objective of the modification: To drive adoption of electric vehicles Modifications Introduction of a demand incentive of Rs. 15,000 per kWh for electric two wheelers with a maximum cap at 40% of the vehicles’ cost. Launch of an aggregate demand for 300,000 electric three- wheelers by Energy Efficiency Services Limited. FAME scheme It was launched in 2015 It forms a part of National Electric Mobility Mission Plan 2020. It aims to promote manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology and to ensure sustainable growth of the same Phase 2 of the scheme was approved for a period of three years starting from first April 2019 It aims to generate demand by way of supporting e-buses, e 2-wheelers, e three- wheelers By selling over 75,000 vehicles FAME has so far resulted in savings of over 20 million litres of fuel and has led to almost 40 million kg reduction in CO2. Miscellaneous Jiyo Parsi scheme The scheme has resulted in a rise in the number of births in the Parsi community. It was launched in 2013 Objective: To prevent the decline in population of the Parsi zoroastrian community in India Developed by: Ministry of Minority affairs and Parzor Foundation It comprises three components: Medical assistance for assisted reproductive treatments, Advocacy and Health of the community (Mains Focus) SECURITY/ INTERNATIONAL Topic: GS-2: Government policies and interventions for development in Health sectors GS-3: Challenges to National Security Synthetic Biology & Bio-security Context: The growth of exponential technologies such as synthetic biology, artificial intelligence and nanotechnology is bound to change the theory and practice of national security. COVID-19 has quickened the inevitable. Synthetic biology is a revolutionary technology which can help us manipulate biological organisms and processes for human betterment, especially in treating diseases, by re-engineering cells There are many risks associated with Synthetic technology which must be addressed before it becomes widely accessible. Some of these risks are: Incomplete Understanding: The rapid rise of synthetic biology in the last two decades and its still-to-be-understood implications haven’t received sufficient attention from the security studies or policy communities. Deliberate Misuse: While the technology is still not easily accessible, the day is not far off when such technologies won’t be difficult to access. There is a need to carefully review, especially in the wake of the pandemic, the biosecurity systems in place where such technologies are in use. Bioweapons: A well-planned attack using highly infectious pathogens synthetically engineered in a lab could be disastrous. This should concern security establishment. Lacks attention of Policy makers: The linkage between national security and synthetic biology is yet to become an agenda item in mainstream national security debates. Contrast this with the focus on nuclear weapons, facilities and material. Accidental leaks of experimental pathogens are another concern. Insufficiently trained staff, inadequately safeguarded facilities, and lack of proper protocols could all be behind such leaks Dual Use Technology: While bio-weapons are banned, research for medical and bio-defence purposes are allowed. While this is understandable, the problem is that there is a thin line between bio-defence research and bio-weapons research. Bio-defence research could potentially be used to create bio-weapons. Inadequate International Regulation Unlike the nuclear domain, the fields of biology or synthetic biology are not regulated internationally despite growing military interest in synthetic biology applications and their potential misuse. When it comes to bio-weapons, all we have is the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention (BTWC) of 1972 with no implementing body. The BTWC does not have a verification clause, nor does it have clearly laid down rules and procedures to guide research in this field. India Uniquely Unprepared: Given poor disease surveillance, insufficient coordination among various government departments dealing with biosecurity issues, porous borders and ill-trained border control institutions and the pathetic state of the healthcare system, India is ill prepared for defending against pathogens or dangerous biological organisms attack. Way Forward The November 2021 BTWC review conference must take stock of the advances in the field, address the thinning line between biotechnology research and bio-weapons research, and consider international measures for monitoring and verification. Connecting the dots: Biological Threats Universal Bio-deterrence INTERNATIONAL/ SECURITY Topic: GS-2: India and its neighborhood- relations GS-3: Challenges in managing the borders India-China relations, a year after Galwan Context: Defence Minister on June 12 approved a revised policy on how India compiles, archives and disseminates its war documents and related history. As per the new policy, Once an operation/war is completed, the first cut of history is to be prepared and disseminated for internal circulation within five years. Whether this first draft of history is to be placed in the public domain or not, will be determined on a case by case basis, depending on the sensitivity of the operation/war. Predictably, the Henderson Brooks-Bhagat report relating to the 1962 war with China, which is still under wraps, will not be part of the new policy. Apparently, another committee will take a view on previous wars. A year after Galwan Incident Carefully shaped narratives about the military defending national sovereignty and territorial integrity are crucial for any political leadership — authoritarian or democratic — and Galwan has special salience for both China and India. India has interpreted Galwan as a case of Chinese aggressiveness and places the onus on Beijing to restore the status quo. In China, the incident is being projected as a case of guarding the border and defending the motherland. The incident has been used to stoke pride in military and muscular nationalism domestically. India’s narrative about Galwan remains opaque and there has been no detailed official statement from the Ministry of Defence on the current tactical situation in Ladakh. Way Ahead The Galwan anniversary should encourage the government to set up an independent panel of experts to review the institutional lapses that led to an altered LoAC in the Ladakh sector. Concurrently, Delhi will need to objectively review and anticipate what the PLA may embark upon next. The incident should encourage government to craft affordable and effective long-term strategic/security policies that are not clouded by political compulsions. Connecting the dots: India-China Border flare-up Galwan Valley Clashes in 2020 US Report on Galwan Galwan: Postscript to a tragedy China’s Belt & Road Initiative (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 Jiyo Parsi scheme is developed by which of the following? Ministry of Minority affairs Parzor Foundation NITI Aayog Both (a) and (b) Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding FAME scheme: It forms a part of National Electric Mobility Mission Plan 2020. It aims to promote manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology and to ensure sustainable growth of the same Which of the above is or are correct 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary is located in which of the following state of India? West Bengal Odisha Maharashtra Kerala ANSWERS FOR 14th June 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 B Must Read On G-7 Summit: The Hindu On Centre’s liberalised vaccination policy: The Hindu On conducting board exams: Indian Express
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-16 of RaRe Series - Click here To Register - Click here For complete details of the RaRe Series - Click here
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
