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Ace The Prelims (ATP)

Ace The Prelims (ATP) – 2021– PRELIMS – [11th February, 2021] – Day 34

ARCHIVES Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s Ace The Prelims (ATP) – 2021 – PRELIMS & MAINS – [11th February, 2021] – Day 34   UPSC Quiz - 2021 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 11th February 2021 UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 11th February 2021 UPSC Static Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) – Polity [Day 34]   The way ATP molecules provide energy to every single cell of our body and help us in achieving our day to day tasks, similarly, the ‘Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021’ Programme will help in providing energy and direction to your prelims preparation and push you beyond the cutoff of Prelims 2021. Ace the Prelims (ATP) – 2021 will include Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) Daily CSAT Practice Test Daily Current Affair Quiz 60 Days Plan (starts from 2nd week of March) To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE   Thank You IASbaba

Daily Static Quiz

UPSC Static Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) – Polity [Day 34]

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

UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 11th February 2021

ARCHIVES Daily CSAT Practice Test Everyday 5 Questions from Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension will be covered from Monday to Saturday. Make the best use of the initiative. All the best! To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE Important Note: Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :) After completing the 5 questions, click on 'View Questions' to check your score, time taken and solutions. To take the Test - Click Here

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2021 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 11th February 2021

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. We will make sure, in the next 4 months not a single day is wasted. All your energies are channelized in the right direction. Trust us! This will make a huge difference in your results this time, provided that you follow this plan sincerely every day without fail. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE Important Note: Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :) After completing the 5 questions, click on 'View Questions' to check your score, time taken and solutions. To take the Test - Click Here

SYNOPSIS [9th February,2021] Day 26: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE   SYNOPSIS [9th February,2021] Day 26: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. Infrastructure expansion has significant multiplier effect for the economy. Do you agree? What are the current constraints of infrastructure expansion in India? Discuss. Approach- Question is straight forward. In the backdrop of economic recession role of infrastructure is important to outline. How infrastructure is responsible for growth can be shown in body with constraints in system. Answer can be concluded with way forward. Introduction Infrastructure spending is expected to have a multiplier effect on overall economic growth, primarily based on the Keynesian theory that aggregate demand can be reactivated by increasing public expenditure. Improved infrastructure will enhance the overall productive capacity of the economy and its global competitiveness. Body As India faces its deepest recession since Independence, infrastructure spending can help spur economic activity and the involuntarily unemployed through job creation. The ₹111 lakh crore National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP) built on Infrastructure Vision 2025 should provide a timely stimulus to the economy. Typically, infrastructure projects are characterised by high capital intensity and long gestation periods, often leading to a funding gap. Public investment is key to filling this gap. The government should take stock of the project pipeline and review its expenditure and financing programmes to obtain optimal results and impacts. Closing the infrastructure funding gap calls for developing financing solutions and placing more emphasis on collaboration and shared responsibilities across public, private and non-governmental organisations. Infrastructure Vision 2025's strategic goals are aligned with those of the UN's 2030 Sustainable Development Goals to improve the living standards of people. What are the constraints for infrastructure expansion? India’s infrastructure gap can be the catalyst for its economic and development leap. In order to bridge this gap, however, an investment of $1.5 trillion over the next ten years is needed. Financing Infrastructure projects are highly capital intensive and funding is considered as a major impediment in achieving the infrastructure goals. The infrastructure broadly can be divided into two types, one which is very essential for the public at large and have no or very little revenue potential and other which has handsome revenue potential. The first kind of infrastructure must be totally government financed whereas the later can be developed on PPP mode. Since resource constraints will continue to limit public investment in infrastructure, PPP-based development needs to be encouraged wherever feasible. Land Acquisition Another significant challenge in achieving the infrastructure goal is the way land acquisition is done for infrastructure projects. Compensation fixed in terms of registered value is always the bone of contention. There is always a substantial difference between the compensation offered and the actual value of the land. The land owners always feel aggrieved which results in dispute and litigation. Clearances from numerous agencies Most of the infrastructure projects in India suffer from delays in completion. This is mainly due to an inadequate regulatory framework and inefficiency in the approval process. Infrastructure projects require multiple sequential clearances at various levels of government. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Environmental safeguards and guidelines have proven to be one of the major reasons for delay in infrastructure projects, especially in the power sector. While new projects need to comply with these regulations, even a project under construction may need to comply with revised standards. Poor pre-construction planning Due to the already adverse effect of various impediments like land acquisition, statutory approvals, delayed financial closure, etc. the pre-construction phase of infrastructure projects is pretty long. Therefore, there is delayed commissioning and completion of projects. What can be the way forward? Public-Private Partnership: Government is making efforts towards Public-Private Partnership Projects especially in Infrastructure. Viability Gap Funding: Government has made provision to financially support the viability gap to the tune of 20% of the cost of the project in the form of capital grant from its viability gap fund. Conclusion Infrastructure is a key driver of the overall development of Indian economy. It is seen that investments in infrastructure equal to 1% of GDP will result in GDP growth of at least 2% as a “multiplier effect” on economic growth across sectors. The recent headway made in developing transport infrastructure will prove to be the biggest enabler for growth. An efficient infrastructure is the biggest enabler for growth. India’s growth story should no longer be impeded by a lack of infrastructure, and the fruits of this growth should reach everyone in the remotest part of the country. 2. What are India’s recent achievements in the field of green energy? Illustrate. Approach  Since question is asking you to illustrate which means it is asking you to exemplify or to provide examples. Introduction  Green energy is any energy type that is generated from natural resources, such as sunlight, wind or water. The key with these energy resources is that they don’t harm the environment through factors such as releasing greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.  Body INDIA’S RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS IN THE FIELD OF GREEN ENERGY  India is rapidly moving towards becoming one of the largest green energy producers in the world.  As of 31 October 2020, India’s total renewable energy installed capacity had reached over 89.63 GW, according to the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy. The government said that during the last six years, India has witnessed the fastest rate of growth in renewable energy capacity addition among all large economies, with renewable energy capacity growing by 2.5 times and solar energy expanding by over 13 times.  Renewable energy now constitutes over 24 per cent of the country’s installed power capacity and around 11.62 per cent of the electrical energy generation.  Also, if large hydro is included, the share of renewable energy in electric installed capacity would be over 36 per cent and over 26 per cent of the electric energy generation.  Further, around 49.59 GW renewable energy capacity is under installation, and an additional 27.41 GW capacity has been tendered. This makes the total capacity that is already commissioned and in the pipeline about 166.63 GW.  The government apprised that on top of that, large hydropower, which has also been declared as renewable energy has about 45 GW hydro installed capacity and 13 GW capacity under installation, which brings India’s total renewable energy portfolio of installed and in pipeline projects to 221 GW.  This is significantly higher than the Modi government’s target of installing a green energy capacity of 175 GW by 2020. Conclusion Meanwhile, Prime Minister has recently invited foreign investors saying that there are huge renewable energy deployment plans for the next decade, which are likely to generate business prospects of the order of around $20 billion per year. Inviting the global investors, developers, and businesses to join India’s renewable energy journey, PM Modi had added that India has a very liberal foreign investment policy for renewables. The foreign investors can either invest on their own or they can collaborate with an Indian company. PM Modi had also announced that after the success of PLI in electronics manufacturing, the government has decided to give similar incentives to high-efficiency solar modules. 3. The impetus on infrastructure expansion in India’s Northeast will reap huge economic and strategic benefits for India. Do you agree? Substantiate your views.  Approach: The question is straight forward in its approach, students are expected to write about strategic and economic benefits of infrastructure development in the North East region, also mention about the socio economic conditions of the region and substantiate your view points properly .  Introduction: Regional disparities especially in socio economic development are a ubiquitous phenomenon across India. India’s North Eastern region (NER) comprising the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland and Tripura is a poorly developed and tribal population dominated region in India. In spite of having some similarities in life style of majority of the population and a common Mongoloid origin, sharp differences exist in the status of socioeconomic development. Infrastructural push will play an important role in bringing North East at par with the rest of the country in terms of connectivity, growth and opprotunities. Inadequate infrastructure and poor connectivity are the major constraints to development in the region. Not only is the region poorly connected to the rest of India, it is also poorly connected to neighbouring countries in Southeast Asia. Body: Infrastructure is the backbone of economy it has a higher multiplier effect playing  key role in bringing investment,  increased production capacity and opportunities for growth and employment. In North-East-Region, infrastructure is the most critical aspect to improve connectivity, strenghthen strategic ties, enhance border security, improve trade and people to people ties with the South-East Asian Countries.  Budgetary allocations towards infrastructural development has been increased significantly over the years towards central sector schemes such as North east special infrastructure development scheme, Ministry of DONER, North east road infrastructure development scheme etc. Economic benefits of infrastructure development- Along with connectivity, the level of economic activity is bound to increase. Previously, even fiscal concession given to the states failed to attract significant industrial investments. The reason was high logistical costs of moving merchandise to high consumption regions. In this context, better connectivity provides a booster shot to economic activity. Surrounded by international borders, infrastructure development — both internal and international — could be the best choice for inclusive development in India’s Northeast. International infrastructure, which is also termed as connectivity, may help the NER to become more economically engaged with neighbouring countries.  Building resilient infrastructure also requires development of the border in Northeast India and facilitation of border trade. The border is seen as a connector and as an economy-building asset rather than a deterrent. In recent years, India’s trade with Bangladesh and Myanmar witnessed a steep rise in growth, which indirectly suggests the existence of a large trade potential. However, supply-side constraints, among others, inhibit the two-way trade across the borders with India’s two neighbours. Enhancing Northeast India’s existing level of trade and economic linkages between Bangladesh and Myanmar would need infrastructure and institutional support, which would facilitate growth and remove the region’s economic isolation. The Northeastern states of India are likely to gain more from the Trilateral Highway, compared to many other Indian states. Removing the status quo, therefore, means the NER has to invest in building physical and institutional infrastructure, which in return would lead to higher production — both within and across borders — and industrialisation, which will foster innovation and enhance the economic linkages with the neighbouring countries. Infrastructure development could boost the tourism industry in the north east to its highest potentioal which will have multiplier effect on the overall economy of the region. Lack of infrastructure in north east region has left horticulture industry which includes bamboo, forest produce and other products in a disarray without access to markets horticulture could not bring benefits to the people of the region.Infrastructure development will play a key role in the development of horticulture by providing access to markets and new technologies. Strategic benefits of infrastructure development- The India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway will play a key role in this and help improve connectivity between India and Thailand and others in the neighbourhood. India also has plans for a global electricity grid that may initially aim to link countries such as Myanmar, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam with the Indian sub-continent, as part of an evolving energy security architecture. In order to counter Chinese influence India is working on a slew of road and bridge projects to improve connectivity with Bangladesh, Nepal and Myanmar. These include road networks connecting Aizawl in Mizoram with Kaladan in Myanmar and Imphal in Manipur with Tamu, also in Myanmar. India is also expediting the South Asian Sub-Regional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) road connectivity programme. India’s Act East Policy is a significant cornerstone of the Indo-Pacific strategy, adding that ASEAN is at the core of Act East Policy, Development of north east region plays a key role in realizing the benefits of act east policy. Development of infrastructure plays a key role in bringing ease of living for the people in the region, thus acts as an antidote to the separatist feelings and against the terrorism present there. Incidents like Doklam call for greater infrastructural push in terms of connectivity to allow fast movement of security forces in times of stand off like incidents. Development of Dolha sadia and Bogibeel bridge are a step towards bringing North east in the development map and allow greater flexibility in the security matrix of india. Conclusion: In order to fulfil SDG 9, infrastructure development has a strong catalytic role to play in Northeast India. policy responses need to focus on Strengthening infrastructure linkages,Facilitating trade, investment and tourism, Developing human resources and promoting sustainable development in the region is conducive for overall growth and prosperity of the region. 4. What are the most pressing challenges being faced by the tourism sector in India? Discuss. Examine the recent initiatives taken by the government to address the challenges. Approach  We need to discuss on diverse challenges faced by tourism sector of India and also mention about government initiatives taken to tackle these challenges.   Introduction  The Tourism and Hospitality industry is one of the largest service industries in India   which accounts for 9.2% of India’s GDP and employs 8% of India’s total workforce. It was also one of the largest Foreign Exchange Earners in India with earnings of $29.962 billion in 2019.  Body India’s tourism sector which has exceptional potential, suffers through following pressing challenges: Pandemic setback: A study by CARE Ratings notes a 40 per cent decline in tourism sector revenue in 2020 as compared to 2019. Railways, Airways are working at lower capacity. Reduced Budget allocation: Budgetary allocation for the Ministry of Tourism has been slashed to Rs 2026.77 from Rs 2,500 crore in 2020-21. Lack of efficient Infrastructure and connectivity: It prevents tourist from visiting tourism potential sites. It includes hotels, connectivity with other cities, health facilities, and transportation etc. Safety and Security: Attacks on foreign tourists, especially on the woman tourists have raised this question. India is placed at 114th position in terms of safety.  Inaccessible tourism: Lack of accessible and affordable infrastructure and services for divyangs, elderly, low income entities, etc. Low foreign tourist arrivals: India has 38 monuments listed as world heritage sites, the fifth highest number in the world but attracts less than 1% of global foreign travellers every year. Stiff Competition: India is facing stiff competition from other popular destinations like Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam Lack of sanitation and cleanliness, high pollution, lack of skilling, geopolitical tension, slowdown in global economies etc. some of the other challenges faced by tourism sector in India. To address these pressing challenges faced by the tourism industry, the government has taken following initiatives: Investment in infrastructure and connectivity: Budget 2021-2022 has allocated ₹1,18,101 crore, the highest ever outlay, for Ministry of Road Transport and Highways and ₹1,10,055 crore have been allocated to the Railways. Comprehensive and rapid corona vaccination drive: India is fastest in world to vaccinate 6 million beneficiaries for Covid-10. Incredible India campaign Prime Minister of India urged people to visit 15 domestic tourist destinations in India by 2022. E-Tourist VISA facility: e-Tourist VISA, e-Business VISA & e-Medical VISA (currently, 167 countries have e-tourist visa facility) Special Tourism Zones (STZ): 5 STZs in partnership with states to boost tourism in India Medical tourism: Economical treatment, quality healthcare infra & highly skilled doctors Coastal tourism: Promote intra-regional trade among Indian Ocean Rim (IOR) countries. The Ministry of Tourism developed an initiative called SAATHI (System for Assessment, Awareness & Training for Hospitality Industry) by partnering with the Quality Council of India (QCI) Ministry of Tourism launched Dekho Apna Desh webinar  to generate awareness tourist destinations Development of tourist circuits under Swadesh Darshan for eight Northeast states. Development of tourist circuits under PRASHAD scheme. Government reduced GST on hotel rooms to increase India’s competitiveness as a tourism destination. Conclusion Tourism tends to encourage the development of multiple-use infrastructure including hotels, resorts & restaurants, transport infrastructure (aviation, roads, shipping & railways) and healthcare facilities. Thus, concentrated efforts in reviving India’s tourism sector lies at the core in achieving V-shape recovery and sustainable development of India. 5. Privatisation of railway operations is a progressive economic decision.  Comment. Approach Students  are expected to write about the privatisation and comment on how privatisation of railways operation is progressive economic decisions. Introduction Recently, the Indian Railways initiated the process to allow private firms to operate passenger trains on its network through 151 new trains. While these trains will form a minuscule portion of the entire railway network, this marks the beginning of private sector participation in passenger train operations. The privatization of Indian railways has been recommended for many decades, by the erstwhile Planning Commission of India and now by Niti Aayog. Body Functions of railway operation department: Railway operation encompasses all the activities connected with the running of a railway. However, Operating department in particular has its role in producing a service called Transportation. In this activity, Operating department harnesses the efforts of all the departments of the Railways and optimizes usage of operational assets viz. track, signals fixed installations and rolling stock. Railways operating ratio in 2017-18 was 98.44%, worst in 10 years as per CAG. The Railways has also been unable to meet its operational cost of passenger services and other coaching services. Almost 95 per cent of the profit from freight traffic was utilised to compensate for the loss on operation of passenger and other coaching services, it said. Privatisation of railways operations a progressive economic decision: Improved Quality of Services: Operational Efficiency & Passenger Experience Operations of these trains by the private entity will conform to key performance indicators like punctuality, reliability, upkeep of train, catering. Indian Railway services are marred by issues like mismanagement in the form of stinking washrooms, lack of water supply and dirty platforms. Privatisation may solve these issues, as the move would foster competition and hence lead to overall betterment in the quality of services. Capacity augmentation: Once the railways permit private players, there is scope for capacity augmentation. This is a very pertinent point because, in 2018-19, 8.85 crore people were on the waiting-list and railways was able to provide reservation to only 16% of the waiting list passengers. Improved Security: Private participation can lead to better accountability and monitoring, which can keep a check on rising accidents in railways. Attractiveness: The main objective of this move is to introduce a new train travel experience for passengers who are used to travelling by aircraft and air-conditioned buses. Cleanliness in trains, quality of food could be addressed with privatisation. Improved Infrastructure: Niti Aayog’s strategy for New India @75 envisages many targets in railway infrastructure such as increasing the speed of infrastructure creation from the present 7 km/day to 19 km/day, 100% electrification of broad gauge track by 2022-23. Given this, a strong argument in favour of privatization is that it will lead to better infrastructure which in turn would lead to improved safety, reduction in travel time, etc. Technology Infusion: The privatization will also help in accommodating the latest technology in railways coaches, safety and travelling experience. Thereby, it may help Indian Railways to become a world-class network. From some quarters there is criticism that railways are the common mode of transportation for common man and privatisation of its operations will hampers it’s progressive work and goodwill: There is criticism that the move to privatise railways will affect the job opportunities of people belonging to the economically and socially backward class. Increased Fares: Given that a private enterprise runs on profit, thus it may be assumed that the easiest way of accruing profits in Indian Railways would be to hike fares. This would render the service out of reach for lower income groups. Also, this would defeat the purpose of the Indian railways which is meant to serve the entire population of the country irrespective of the level of income. Social Welfare Concerns: As the Indian Railways plays a vital role in transportation of goods in the country, it provides a low cost of transportation of many final and intermediate goods. Thus, the privatization of the system motivated by profit making, will have an inflationary effect and thereby affect the common people. Way Forward Sustainable Pricing: There is a need to revisit Indian Railways pricing model to make the passenger and freight segments sustainable. The tariffs should be competitive with the cost of road transportation. Independent Regulator: Setting up an independent regulator will be critical for creating a level playing field for private players. In this pursuit, there is a need to expedite the process of establishing the Rail Development Authority, as it is already approved by the government. Conclusion The money which the Indian Railways will earn through revenue sharing can be utilised for improving the quality of passenger train services and railway infrastructure in poorer regions. They should also ensure that all the disputes between the private and public stakeholders are amicably resolved and excellent standards of services to passengers are maintained even in the future. TLP HOT Synopsis Day 26 PDF

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 10th February 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Nai Roshni: A scheme for Leadership Development of Minority Women Part of: GS Prelims and GS- I – Society & GS- II – Policies and Interventions In news  “Nai Roshni”, a scheme for Leadership Development of Minority Women is being implemented across India. Ministry: Ministry of Minority affairs  Key takeaways  Aim: To empower and instill confidence in women by providing knowledge, tools, and techniques for interacting with Government systems, banks, and other institutions at all levels. This includes empowerment of the trainee women so that they become independent and confident members of society. The scheme provides for six days training programme followed by handholding for one year. The training covers issues relating to women viz. The leadership of Women through participation in decision making, Educational Programmes for women, Health and Hygiene, Legal rights of women, Financial Literacy, Digital Literacy, Swachh Bharat, Life Skills, and Advocacy for Social and Behavioural change. The Scheme is being implemented through NGOs enrolled under the Nai Roshni Scheme. Do you know?  In Seekho Aur Kamao (Learn & Earn) Scheme, 33% of the total beneficiaries are women. Similarly in the Nai Manzil scheme, 30% of the total beneficiaries are women. These schemes help in the economic empowerment of the Minority women Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III – Environment & GS- I - Geography In news  A glacier break is suspected to have caused the flash floods in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli. Important value additions  When glaciers melt, the water in glacial lakes accumulates behind loose, natural “glacial/moraine dams” made of ice, sand, pebbles, and ice residue. A GLOF refers to the flooding that occurs when the water dammed by a glacier or a moraine is released suddenly. Unlike earthen dams, the weak structure of the moraine dam leads to the abrupt failure of the dam on top of the glacial lake, which holds a large volume of water. A failure of the dam has the potential of releasing millions of cubic metres of water in a short period, causing catastrophic flooding downstream. NDMA has recommended the use of Synthetic-Aperture Radar imagery to automatically detect changes in water bodies, including new lake formations, during the monsoon months. Reasons Glacial retreat due to climate change occurring in most parts of the Hindu Kush Himalaya has given rise to the formation of numerous new glacial lakes, which are the major cause of GLOFs. An “Inventory and Monitoring of Glacial Lakes / Water Bodies in the Himalayan Region of Indian River Basins” found that there are 352, 283, and 1,393 glacial lakes and water bodies in the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra basins respectively. Do you know? Synthetic-aperture radar (SAR) is a form of radar that is used to create two-dimensional images or three-dimensional reconstructions of objects, such as landscapes.  SAR uses the motion of the radar antenna over a target region to provide finer spatial resolution than conventional beam-scanning radars.  JATP – Center Of Excellence (JATP – CoE) Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III – Sci & Tech In news  DRDO signed an MoU with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru for the creation of JATP–Center of Excellence (JATP – CoE) in the premises of IISc to expand the scope and objective of the existing Joint Advanced Technology Program. Key takeaways  The JATP-CoE will enable Directed Basic & Applied Research and engage with premier research institutes through multi-disciplinary & multi-institutional collaboration. The focused research efforts at the centre will lead to realization of indigenous technologies in the critical areas to develop state of art technologies. As per the MoU, DRDO will support JATP in equipping it with advanced and unique research facilities that will enable the faculty and scholars to conduct advanced research.  DRDO will facilitate advanced research to utilize technology outcomes in futuristic applications. Do you know?  JATP was created by President of India Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam in 1983 where the DRDO scientists actively collaborated with the faculty of IISc to work on various missile technologies. Measures by the Government to preserve and promote the traditional cultural heritage of India Part of: GS Prelims and GS- I – Culture In news  Minister of Culture and Tourism informed Parliament about the Measures taken by the Government to preserve and promote the traditional cultural heritage of India. Key takeaways  The Ministry of Culture formulated a scheme titled “Scheme for Safeguarding the Intangible Heritage and Diverse Cultural Traditions of India”.  The objective of the scheme: Promoting the rich Intangible Cultural Heritage of India. India has successfully inscribed 13 Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) elements in the UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity under the 2003 Convention. As the first step towards the making of a National Inventory of ICH, the Ministry of Culture (MoC) has put up a list on its website called “National list for ICH” The National list of ICH is an attempt to recognize the diversity of Indian Culture embedded in its Intangible Heritage. Important value additions  Following UNESCO’s 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage, this list has been classified into five broad domains in which Intangible Cultural Heritage is manifested: Oral traditions and expressions, including language as a vehicle of the Intangible Cultural Heritage Performing Arts Social practices, Rituals, and Festive events Knowledge and practices concerning nature and the Universe Traditional Craftsmanship Related article: Culture related terms: Click here Hawker Culture in Singapore: Click here USA plans to re-engage with United Nations Human Rights Council Part of: GS Prelims and GS- II – International Relations In news  The USA has announced plans to re-engage with the much-maligned UN Human Rights Council that the former President withdrew from almost three years ago. Important value additions  The Human Rights Council is an inter-governmental body within the United Nations system. Location: Geneva. Establishment: It was founded in 2006. It replaced the former United Nations Commission on Human Rights (UNCHR) that had been strongly criticised for allowing countries with poor human rights records to be members.  Functions: (1) It investigates allegations of breaches of human rights in UN member states; (2) It also addresses important thematic human rights issues such as freedom of expression, women's rights, LGBT rights, and the rights of racial and ethnic minorities. The UNHRC works closely with the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR). Membership: 47 Member States elected by the UN General Assembly. The Council's Membership is based on equitable geographical distribution. Members of the Council serve for three years and are not eligible for immediate re-election after serving two consecutive terms. India has been elected to the UNHRC for three years beginning January 1, 2019.  India had previously been elected to the UNHRC for the 2011-2014 and 2014-2017 terms. World Sustainable Development Summit 2021 Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III – Environment In news  The Indian Prime Minister will inaugurate the World Sustainable Development Summit 2021 on 10th February. Important value additions  Theme: Redefining our common future: Safe and secure environment for all. It is the 20th edition of The Energy and Resources Institute’s (TERI) flagship event The Summit will bring together a wide number of governments, business leaders, academicians, climate scientists, youth, and civil society in the fight against climate change. key partners of the Summit: India’s Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, and Ministry of Earth Sciences Place in the news: Dhekiajuli Part of: GS Prelims and GS- I – Modern History In news  Indian Prime Minister recently paid a visit to the historic martyr town of Dhekiajuli in Assam, to lay the foundation stone for two medical colleges and launch a road and highway project. Important value additions  Dhekiajuli is associated with the Quit India Movement of 1942.  Dhekiajuli was home to possibly the youngest martyr of the Indian freedom struggle. On September 20, 1942, as part of the Quit India movement, processions of freedom fighters marched to various police stations across several towns in Assam. These squads, which were known as ‘Mrityu Bahini’, or death squads, had wide participation — including women and children — and set out to unfurl the tricolor atop police stations, seen as symbols of colonial power. The British administration came down heavily on them.  In Dhekiajuli, at least 15 people were shot dead, three of them women, including the 12-year-old Tileswari Barua. Do you know?  September 20 has for long been observed as Martyrs’ Day in Dhekiajuli town. Recently, the Dhekiajuli police station was accorded heritage status and restored by the Assam government. (Mains Focus) ECONOMY/ POLITY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: GS-2: Constitutional bodies and their responsibilities GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment; Government Budgeting Fifteenth Finance Commission (15th FC) Context: In Nov 2017, this 15th Finance Commission was set up. The recommendations of the 15th Finance Commission will cover a period of five years starting from 1st April 2020. This Commission was headed by Shri N.K.Singh, former Member of Parliament and former Secretary to the Government of India.  The commission was required to submit two reports, one for 2020-21 and the second covering the period of five years from 2021-22 to 2025-26 Basis for extension First, the abolition of Statehood to Jammu and Kashmir required the Commission to make an estimation excluding the Union Territory. Second, the deceleration in growth and low inflation has substantially slowed down the nominal GDP growth making projections for medium term risky.  Finally, poor revenue performance of tax collection and more particularly Goods and Services Tax combined with the fact that the compensation agreement to the loss of revenue to the States was effective only two years of the period of 15FC posed uncertainties If not for extension, making medium-term projections in the current scenario would have entailed serious risks. For Interim Report on 2020-21: Click here Key Points of the 15th Finance Commission report for 2021-26 tabled in Parliament are Vertical Devolution -Devolution of Taxes of the Union to States- It has recommended maintaining the vertical devolution at 41% - the same as in its interim report for 2020-21. It is at the same level of 42% of the divisible pool as recommended by the 14th Finance Commission. It has made the required adjustment of about 1% due to the changed status of the erstwhile State of Jammu and Kashmir into the new Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir In XVFC’s assessment, gross tax revenues for 5-year period is expected to be 135.2 lakh crore. Out of that, Divisible pool (after deducting cesses and surcharges & cost of collection) is estimated to be 103 lakh crore. States’ share at 41 per cent of divisible pool comes to 42.2 lakh crore for 2021-26 period. Including total grants of Rs. 10.33 lakh crore (details later) and tax devolution of Rs. 42.2 lakh crore, aggregate transfers to States is estimated to remain at around 50.9 per cent of the divisible pool during 2021-26 period. Total XVFC transfers (devolution + grants) constitutes about 34 per cent of estimated Gross Revenue Receipts of the Union leaving adequate fiscal space for the Union to meet its resource requirements and spending obligations on national development priorities. Horizontal Devolution (Allocation Between the States): For horizontal devolution, it has suggested 12.5% weightage to demographic performance, 45% to income, 15% each to population and area, 10% to forest and ecology and 2.5% to tax and fiscal efforts. On horizontal devolution, while XVFC agreed that the Census 2011 population data better represents the present need of States, to be fair to, as well as reward, the States which have done better on the demographic front, XVFC has assigned a 12.5 per cent weight to the demographic performance criterion. XVFC has re-introduced tax effort criterion to reward fiscal performance Revenue Deficit Grants to States: Revenue deficit grants emanate from the requirement to meet the fiscal needs of the States on their revenue accounts that remain to be met, even after considering their own tax and non-tax resources and tax devolution to them. Revenue Deficit is defined as the difference between revenue or current expenditure and revenue receipts, that includes tax and non-tax. It has recommended post-devolution revenue deficit grants amounting to about Rs. 2.94 lakh crores over the five-year period ending FY26. The number of states qualifying for the revenue deficit grants decreases from 17 in FY22, the first year of the award period to 6 in FY26, the last year. Performance Based Incentives and Grants to States:  These grants revolve around four main themes. The first is the social sector, where it has focused on health and education. Second is the rural economy, where it has focused on agriculture and the maintenance of rural roads. The rural economy plays a significant role in the country as it encompasses two-thirds of the country's population, 70% of the total workforce and 46% of national income. Third, governance and administrative reforms under which it has recommended grants for judiciary, statistics and aspirational districts and blocks. Fourth, it has developed a performance-based incentive system for the power sector, which is not linked to grants but provides an important, additional borrowing window for States. Fiscal Space for Centre: Total 15th Finance Commission transfers (devolution + grants) constitutes about 34% of estimated Gross Revenue Receipts to the Union, leaving adequate fiscal space to meet its resource requirements and spending obligations on national development priorities. Provided range for fiscal deficit and debt path of both the Union and States. Additional borrowing room to States based on performance in power sector reforms. XVFC has recognised that the FRBM Act needs a major restructuring and recommended that the time-table for defining and achieving debt sustainability may be examined by a High-powered Inter-governmental Group.  This High-powered Inter-Governmental Group could also be tasked to oversee the implementation of the 15th Finance Commission’s diverse recommendations. State Governments may explore formation of independent public debt management cells which will chart their borrowing programme efficiently. Grants to Local Governments: The total size of the grant to local governments should be Rs. 4.3 lakh crore for the period 2021-26. Of these total grants, Rs. 8,000 crore is performance-based grants for incubation of new cities and Rs. 450 crore is for shared municipal services.  A sum of Rs. 2.3 lakh crore is earmarked for rural local bodies, Rs.1.2 lakh crore for urban local bodies and Rs. 70,051 crore for health grants through local governments. Urban local bodies have been categorised into two groups, based on population, and different norms have been used for flow of grants to each, based on their specific needs and aspirations.  Basic grants are proposed only for cities/towns having a population of less than a million. For Million-Plus cities, 100 per cent of the grants are performance-linked through the Million-Plus Cities Challenge Fund (MCF) MCF amount is linked to the performance of these cities in improving their air quality and meeting the service level benchmarks for urban drinking water supply, sanitation and solid waste management. Health XVFC has recommend that health spending by States should be increased to more than 8 per cent of their budget by 2022. Given the inter-State disparity in the availability of medical doctors, it is essential to constitute an All India Medical and Health Service as is envisaged under Section 2A of the All-India Services Act, 1951. The total grants-in-aid support to the health sector over the award period works out to Rs. 1 lakh crore, which is 10.3 per cent of the total grants-in-aid recommended by XVFC. The grants for the health sector will be unconditional. XVFC has recommend health grants aggregating to Rs. 70,051 crore for urban health and wellness centres (HWCs), building-less sub centre, PHCs, CHCs, block level public health units, support for diagnostic infrastructure for the primary healthcare activities and conversion of rural sub centres and PHCs to HWCs. These grants will be released to the local governments. Defence and Internal Security The Union Government may constitute in the Public Account of India, a dedicated non-lapsable fund, Modernisation Fund for Defence and Internal Security (MFDIS). The total indicative size of the proposed MFDIS over the period 2021-26 is Rs. 2.3 lakh crore. Disaster Risk Management Mitigation Funds should be set up at both the national and State levels, in line with the provisions of the Disaster Management Act.  The Mitigation Fund should be used for those local level and community-based interventions which reduce risks and promote environment-friendly settlements and livelihood practices.  XVFC has recommended the total corpus of Rs.1.6 lakh crore for States for disaster management for the duration of 2021-26, of which the Union’s share is Rs. 1.2 lakh crore and States’ share is Rs. 37,552 crore. XVFC has recommended six earmarked allocations for a total amount of Rs. 11,950 crore for certain priority areas, namely, two under the NDRF (Expansion and Modernisation of Fire Services and Resettlement of Displaced People affected by Erosion) and four under the NDMF (Catalytic Assistance to Twelve Most Drought-prone States, Managing Seismic and Landslide Risks in Ten Hill States, Reducing the Risk of Urban Flooding in Seven Most Populous Cities and Mitigation Measures to Prevent Erosion). Connecting the dots: N K Singh Committee report on FRBM review (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 World Sustainable Development Summit 2021 is being organised in which of the following country? India Russia Japan Singapore Q.2 The headquarter of United Nations Human Rights Council is situated at which of the following? Switzerland France Geneva Netherlands Q.3 Nai Roshni is a scheme under which of the following Ministry? Ministry of Agriculture Ministry of Aviation Ministry of Finance Ministry of Minority Affairs ANSWERS FOR 9th February 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 D 2 C 3 A Must Read On Government’s Disinvestment Policy: The Hindu On cutting Trans fats: The Hindu About closing the Health gap: The Indian Express

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1 – ENGLISH & हिंदी): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 3 Questions [10th February,2021] – Day 27

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1- ENGLISH & हिंदी): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies 3 Questions [10th February 2020] – Day 27 We will make sure, in the next 100 days not a single day is wasted and your mains preparation is solidified. All your energies are channelized in the right direction. Trust us! This will make a huge difference in your results this time, provided that you follow this plan sincerely every day without fail. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. We are giving 5 Mains Questions on a daily basis so that every student can actively participate and keep your preparation focused. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” To Know More about the Initiative -> CLICK HERE SCHEDULE/DETAILED PLAN – > CLICK HERE Note: Click on Each Question (Link), it will open in a new tab and then Answer respective questions! 1. Examine the deleterious effects of India’s current cropping pattern on the environment. What reforms are needed to incentivise sustainable cropping pattern? Discuss. र्यावरण पर भारत के वर्तमान फसल पैटर्न के प्रतिकूल प्रभावों की जांच करें। एक सतत फसल पैटर्न को प्रोत्साहित करने के लिए किन सुधारों की आवश्यकता है? चर्चा करें। 2. What are millets? What are their nutritional benefits? Discuss. Can millet cultivation be a viable solution to agrarian and nutritional challenges? Examine.  बाजरा क्या हैं? उनके पोषण लाभ क्या हैं? चर्चा करें। क्या बाजरा की खेती कृषि और पोषण संबंधी चुनौतियों का एक व्यावहारिक समाधान हो सकता है? जांच करें। 3. Examine the benefits of drip irrigation. Which sort of crops are suitable to be irrigated by this technique? Discuss.  ड्रिप सिंचाई के लाभों की जांच करें। इस तकनीक द्वारा किस प्रकार की फसलों को सिंचित किया जाना उपयुक्त है? चर्चा करें।  4. What are run off river hydropower plants? Are there environmental hazards associated with such plants? Examine. रन ऑफ रिवर जलविद्युत संयंत्र क्या हैं? क्या ऐसे संयंत्र से पर्यावरण संबंधी खतरे जुड़े हैं? जांच करें। 5. What are the challenges related to procurement, storage and transportation of agricultural produce in India? Analyse. भारत में कृषि उपज की खरीद, भंडारण और परिवहन से संबंधित चुनौतियाँ क्या हैं? विश्लेषण करें। P.S: The review from IASbaba will happen from the time the question is posted till 10 pm everyday. We would also encourage peer reviews. So friends get actively involved and start reviewing each others answers. This will keep the entire community motivated. All the Best :)

Ace The Prelims (ATP)

Ace The Prelims (ATP) – 2021– PRELIMS – [10th February, 2021] – Day 33

ARCHIVES Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s Ace The Prelims (ATP) – 2021 – PRELIMS & MAINS – [10th February, 2021] – Day 33   UPSC Quiz - 2021 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 10th February 2021 UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 10th February 2021 UPSC Static Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) – Polity [Day 33]   The way ATP molecules provide energy to every single cell of our body and help us in achieving our day to day tasks, similarly, the ‘Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021’ Programme will help in providing energy and direction to your prelims preparation and push you beyond the cutoff of Prelims 2021. Ace the Prelims (ATP) – 2021 will include Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) Daily CSAT Practice Test Daily Current Affair Quiz 60 Days Plan (starts from 2nd week of March) To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE   Thank You IASbaba

Daily Static Quiz

UPSC Static Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) – Polity [Day 33]

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

UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 10th February 2021

ARCHIVES Daily CSAT Practice Test Everyday 5 Questions from Aptitude, Logical Reasoning, and Reading Comprehension will be covered from Monday to Saturday. Make the best use of the initiative. All the best! To Know More about Ace the Prelims (ATP) 2021 - CLICK HERE Important Note: Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :) After completing the 5 questions, click on 'View Questions' to check your score, time taken and solutions. To take the Test - Click Here