IAS Baba

Jan 1, 2020 Motivational Articles

[NEW YEAR] Wish you all a Happy and Successful New Year 2021!!

Dear Babaites, 2020 is gone and we have entered 2021! We witnessed a period of untold misery and chaos in 2020. At the same time, we could also experience the power of human will and perseverance to sustain against all odds. 2020 gave us many lessons and perhaps the most important is the message that humanity can collaborate against challenges of any scale or extent. It also inspired individuals to stand firm in the face of testing circumstances. Perseverance as a virtue always gets the upper hand in the tussle between human grit and perceived threats to humanity. As civil service aspirants, you must take a clue or two to continue your journey with fresh energy and vigour. Although change in the calendar year doesn’t mean anything substantial in terms of circumstances prevailing around us, it reminds us that every moment in the life is a fresh beginning. It is in this light that you chart out your plans for the upcoming year. You have the opportunity to put all the frustrations behind you and clean up your slate for a reinvigorated start. However, don’t overcommit to yourself. We have the tendency of promising too much to ourselves and when we fall short of the target, we start feeling dejected and listless. This must be avoided. Make smaller and achievable targets. It will give you the confidence to expand your targets and approach them with much confidence. Great leaders and achievers from all around the world recognise the importance of small and incremental targets. It would help you a great deal in the long run. As you are aware, COVID-19 has altered the cycle of UPSC exam. It effectively means that you need to adapt to the new cycle quickly. As COVID-19 has taught you to adapt by doing what you hardly did before the outbreak, like wearing masks or maintaining social distance, for UPSC also you need to acquire new habits. For example, you must start your answer writing practice immediately and adapt to the compressed timelines. You will have to continue the habit of studying in isolation. Gone are those days when you could assemble in closed spaces and rub shoulders with your classmates. Now the solitude of the confines of your room is going to be your partner for the next few months. As things return to normal, you may be tempted to unshackle the boundaries imposed by the pandemic - both physical and psychological. We want you to be safe and secure however. Focus on your studies and imagine yourself watching the T20 Cricket World in LBSNAA. If the vision of this imagination motivates you, imagine living it in reality! All the Best and a Happy New Year :) IASbaba Team

Jan 1, 2020 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 1st January 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Cabinet approves Deepening and Optimization of Inner Harbour Facilities at Paradip Port Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Infrastructure In news Cabinet approved recently Deepening and Optimization of Inner Harbour Facilities. Development of Western Dock on Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis under PPP mode was also approved to handle cape size vessels at Paradip Port. Approved by: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by Prime Minister Key takeaways On commissioning of the project, it shall cater to the requirement of coal & limestone imports besides export of granulated slag & finished steel products. The project shall also facilitate (i) de-congestion of the Port, (ii) reduce Sea freight making coal imports cheaper, and (iii) boost the industrial economy in the hinterland of the port leading to creation of job opportunities. Important value additions Paradip port Paradip Port Trust (PPT), a Major Port under Government of India and administered under the Major Port Trusts Act, 1963, was commissioned in 1966 as a mono commodity port for export of iron ore. Location: Odisha Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) Contract A build-operate-transfer (BOT) contract is a model used to finance large projects, typically infrastructure projects developed through public-private partnerships. The BOT scheme refers to the initial concession by a public entity such as a local government to a private firm to both build and operate the project in question. After a set time frame, typically two or three decades, control over the project is returned to the public entity. Cabinet approves Industrial Corridor nodes at Krishnapatnam and Tumakuru under CBIC Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Infrastructure In news Cabinet has approved Industrial Corridor nodes at Krishnapatnam and Tumakuru under Chennai Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC). Multi Modal Logistics Hub & Multi Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) at Greater Noida was also approved. The approved proposals have a total estimated cost of Rs. 7,725 crore and an estimated employment generation of more than 2.8 lakh persons. These will facilitate manufacturing investments into the country by providing quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure to industries These will also position India as a strong player in Global Value Chains with developed land parcels in cities for immediate allotment for attracting investments Approved proposals shall provide an impetus to “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” & “Make in India”. Key takeaways Multi Modal Logistics Hub Logistics Hub project will be developed as a world-class facility that will provide efficient storage of goods to/from the Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC). It will offer a one-stop destination to freight companies and customers. The facility will provide standard container handling activities. It will also provide various value-added services to reduce logistics cost with improved efficiency of operations. Multi Modal Transport Hub (MMTH) project It will be located near the already existing Indian Railways station of Boraki. It will act as a transport hub with provisioning of Rail, Road and MRTS accessibility for the passengers in a seamless manner. MMTH will have space for Inter State Bus Terminal (ISBT), Local Bus Terminal (LBT), Metro, commercial, retail & hotel space and green open spaces. The project will provide world-class passenger movement facilities for the growing population of the catchment zone catering to upcoming developments in U.P. sub-region of the NCR and thus, decongest Delhi. It will increase employment opportunities as well. Industrial Corridor nodes at Krishnapatnam and Tumakuru under CBIC It is envisioned on the backbone of major transportation corridors like Eastern & Western Dedicated Freight Corridors, Expressways and National Highways, proximity to ports, airports, etc., Objective: Creation of greenfield industrial cities with sustainable, ‘plug n play’, ICT enabled utilities to facilitate the manufacturing investments by providing quality, reliable, sustainable and resilient infrastructure to industries. The developed land parcels in these cities will be ready for immediate allotment for attracting investments. It strives to attain the objective of creation of an “Atmanirbhar Bharat” These greenfield industrial cities will be self-sustained with world-class infrastructure, road and rail connectivity for freight movement to and from ports and logistic hubs along with reliable power and quality social Infrastructure. Cabinet approves modified scheme to enhance ethanol distillation capacity Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Infrastructure; Environment; Agriculture In news Background There has been surplus production of sugar in the country since sugar season 2010-11. Sugar production is likely to remain surplus in India in coming years due to introduction of improved varieties of sugarcane. To deal with surplus stocks of sugar, sugar mills have been exporting sugar, for which Government has been extending financial assistance. India being a developing country can export sugar by extending financial assistance only up to year 2023 as per WTO arrangements. So, diversion of excess sugarcane & sugar to ethanol is a correct way forward to deal with surplus stocks. Key takeaways Thus, recently Cabinet has approved modified scheme to enhance ethanol distillation capacity. Diversion of excess sugar would help in stabilizing the domestic ex-mill sugar prices. It will also help sugar mills to get relieved from storage problems. It will improve their cash flows and facilitate them in clearance of cane price dues of farmers. Government has fixed target of 10% blending of fuel grade ethanol with petrol by 2022, 15% blending by 2026 & 20% blending by 2030. With a view to support sugar sector and in the interest of sugarcane farmers, the Government has also allowed production of ethanol from B-Heavy Molasses, sugarcane juice, sugar syrup and sugar. To increase production of fuel grade ethanol, Govt. is also encouraging distilleries to produce ethanol from maize; & rice available with FCI. Government has fixed remunerative price of ethanol from maize & rice. Government is also planning to prepone achievement of 20% blending target by year 2025 and onwards. With increase in blending levels, dependence on imported fossil fuel will decrease and will also reduce the air pollution. Also, the Government has taken following decisions: To bring a modified scheme for extending interest subvention to augment ethanol production capacity. Government would bear interest subvention for five years including one year moratorium against the loan availed by project proponents from banks at 6% per annum or 50% of the rate of interest charged by banks whichever is lower. Interest subvention would be available to only those distilleries which will supply at least 75% of ethanol produced to Operations Management & Control System (OMCs) for blending with petrol. Do you know? Proposed intervention would enhance production of 1G ethanol from various feed stocks thereby, facilitate in achieving blending targets of ethanol with petrol. It would promote ethanol as a fuel which is indigenous, non-polluting and virtually inexhaustible. It would improve the environment and the ecosystem and result in savings on Oil Import Bill. It will also ensure timely payment of dues to farmers. Maiden Flight Trial of SAHAYAK-NG, Air Droppable Container Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Defence & Security In news Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) along with Indian Navy conducted the successful maiden test trial of ‘SAHAYAK-NG’ off the coast of Goa. It is India’s first indigenously designed and developed Air Dropped Container from IL 38SD aircraft (Indian Navy) Key takeaways The trial was conducted by Indian Navy to enhance its operational logistics capabilities and provide critical engineering stores to ships which are deployed more than 2000 km from the coast. It reduces the requirement of ships to come close to the coast to collect spares and stores. SAHAYAK-NG is an advanced version of SAHAYAK Mk I. The newly developed GPS aided air dropped container is having the capability to carry a payload that weighs upto 50 kg and can be dropped from heavy aircraft. Induction of Indigenous Bridging System into the Indian Army Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Defence & Security In news In close coordination with the private industry and DRDO, the Indian Army has inducted three sets of 10-metre short span bridges. Key takeaways The equipment will meet the important requirement of providing mobility to own forces by speedy bridging of gaps during operations. This accomplishment is a step towards weaning away our armed forces from foreign manufactured equipment because the Bridge is indigenously designed, developed and delivered. All stakeholders have put in concerted efforts to overcome challenges and realise the ‘Make in India’ initiative of the Government, which aims to ensure self reliance and self sufficiency in meeting the defence needs of the Indian Army. North East’s first-ever specialized "Ginger" Processing Plant in Meghalaya being revived Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II –Policies and Interventions In news North East’s first-ever specialised "Ginger" Processing Plant at district Ri-Bhoui in Meghalaya is being revived and is likely to become functional in the beginning of 2021. Key takeaways The Plant is located at the Export Promotion Industrial Park (EPIP), Raja Bhagan, Byrnihat Hatt. It will process ginger and help in preparing products like waxed ginger, ginger paste, ginger powder, ginger flakes, ginger oil etc. Significantly ginger has attained a place of prominence in recent months because of its reported properties as an immunity booster against COVID-19 Virus. The ginger products being prepared from this Plant will be available for domestic consumption and will be able to meet the Global demand as well. This will also be in keeping with Prime Minister Modi’s calls for “Vocal for Local”. For the PPP mode, an Operation and Maintenance Operator was selected through the tendering process and the work on setting up and reviving the Plant is under progress. Do you know? North Eastern Region of India produces about 450,000 Metric Ton of high-quality ginger every year but most of it is sold at a lower price due to lack of processing and cold storage facilities. The Plant at Meghalaya will give the much-needed facility to the ginger growers. They will be able to use their capacities and at the same time optimally utilize the natural resources. There is also a plan to set up 100 new fresh retail points in Northeast and Fruit Kiosks at Guwahati and other major towns of the North Eastern Region. Most of these will be in the PPP mode. Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortia (INSACOG) launched Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Health In news Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortia (INSACOG) was recently launched. Coordinated by: Department of Biotechnology (DBT) along with MoH&FW, ICMR, and CSIR Key takeaways The consortium will ascertain the status of new variant of SARS-CoV-2 in the country. INSACOG will have a high level Inter-Ministerial Steering Committee. It will have a Scientific Advisory Group for scientific and technical guidance. Aim: To monitor the genomic variations in the SARS-CoV-2 on a regular basis through a multi-laboratory network. This vital research consortium will also assist in developing potential vaccines in the future. The consortium will also establish a sentinel surveillance for early detection of genomic variants with public health implication, and determine the genomic variants in the unusual events/trends (super-spreader events, high mortality/morbidity trend areas etc.). Do you know? A new variant, which was found in the UK, especially in the London region, is defined by multiple mutations in the Spike region, as well as mutations in other genomic regions. As per DBT, these mutations are rapidly increasing the number of variants of the virus. This variant is significantly more transmissible than previously circulating variants, with an estimated potential to increase the reproductive number with an estimated increased transmissibility of up to 70%. India commences exports of Moringa powder Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Trade In news India commences exports of Moringa powder, keeping in mind the rising global demand, because of its nutritional properties. Key takeaways In a bid to promote Moringa (botanical name Moringa oleifera) products exports from India, APEDA has been supporting private entities in creating necessary infrastructure. With more Moringa processing units being created through support of APEDA, the exports would be increasing in the next few years which would bring benefits to the farmers. Important value additions Moringa Moringa has been used for centuries due to its medicinal properties and health benefits in various forms. Globally, the demand for Moringa products, such as Moringa Leaf Powder and Moringa Oil, has been witnessing healthy growth. Moreover, international organizations and institutions are exploring the best ways on how to use Moringa as a nutritional supplement and in food fortification. There are several species of Moringa across the world. Its usage has been well received among the global consumers for its nutritional, medicinal, culinary uses. Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority It is an apex body under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India, responsible for the export promotion of agricultural products. APEDA was established by the Government of India under the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority Act passed by the Parliament in December, 1985. Some of the functions of APEDA are as following: Promotion of exports of agricultural and processed food products. Promotion of export oriented production and development of the Scheduled products. To make Improvement in numerous areas such as packaging, marketing for the Scheduled products outside India. Setting standards and specifications for the scheduled products for the purpose of exports. Financial assistance, reliefs and subsidy to the relating industries. To provide training in the related areas MoD signs contract with BEL to supply indigenously developed 10 Lynx U2 Fire Control systems for Indian Navy Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Defence and Security In news Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for procurement of 10 Lynx U2 Fire Control systems for frontline warships of Indian Navy. Designed and developed by: BEL Key takeaways The Lynx system would further the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ vision. The LYNX U2 GFCS is a Naval Gun Fire Control System designed to acquire, track and engage targets amidst sea clutter. It is capable of accurately tracking air/surface targets, generating required target data for predicting weapon aiming points and engaging target. The target engagement is carried out with the medium/short range gun mounts like Russian AK176, A190 and AK630 and the SRGM available onboard ships. The system will be installed on the NOPV, Talwar and Teg class of ships. The system includes the Tracking Radar, Servo and Weapon Control Modules. The indigenous system will ensure maximum up-time of the system and guarantees excellent Product support throughout its life time. BEL signs contract with Indian Navy for Initial supply of indigenously developed Laser Dazzlers Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Defence and Security In news Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has signed a contract with Indian Navy for initial supply of 20 Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation Dazlers (Laser Dazzlers). Developed by: Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Key takeaways The Laser Dazzler is used as a non-lethal method for warning and stopping suspicious vehicles/boats/aircrafts/UAVs/pirates etc. from approaching secured areas during both day and night. It is capable of dazzle and thereby suppress the person’s/optical sensor’s action with disability glare in case of non-compliance to orders. It disorient/ confuse/blind a person temporarily. It also dazzles and distract aircraft/UAVs. It is a portable, shoulder operated and ruggedized for military use in adverse environmental conditions. This unique product is indigenously designed and developed for the first time for the Armed Forces. (Mains Focus) GOVERNANCE/ ENVIRONMENT Topic: General Studies 2,3: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Environmental Conservation Rethinking waste management: Improving governance in India’s North East Context: North East India is the land of rising sun and has an abundance of fresh water sources. But that may not remain so in the coming days. Issues of Waste Management in North East India Lack of Waste Management system in ecological sensitive areas: The world’s largest, fully habituated river island Majuli is situated in the middle of Brahamputra, with the Kaziranga National Park touching Jorhat and Nagaon. Yet, none of these places have any waste management system or a waste water treatment plant River Pollution: At least 85 per cent of the waste in the North East is unceremoniously dumped, without processing and treatment in the Ganga, Yamuna and Brahmaputra. Several dumpsites in India’s north-eastern states are located at wetlands or river banks. Untapped Employment Generation Potential: If the Municipal Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 are implemented in letter and spirit, more than 12,000 jobs can be created in these towns. If extended to all villages, nearly 40,000 jobs related to door-to-door collection, composting and recycling value chain can be created. Inadequate Capabilities: Municipalities in the North East lack the technical know-how. There is also a lack of political commitment from the local elected representatives. Some staff members lack adequate training and exposure. Most trainings are organised for commissioners and engineers but seldom for collection staff or sanitary supervisors. Way Ahead Strong Commitment: If we look at the top five cleanest cities of India, did they do it not because they received money but because there was strong commitment by people & authorities concerned. Involving Community rather than spending big of technology: The solution for India lies in strengthening the existing system and integrating the informal sector in collection and recycling. The informal sector can remove more than 60 per cent of inorganic waste from dumpsites with little investment and save more energy through recycling. Encouraging Small Companies: None of the cities that figured in the cleanest city of the country employed large companies for waste management. Rather, they relied on good local players, including self-help groups for women, waste picker cooperatives or even local non-profits and small contractor. Enforcement of Waste Segregation Laws: A lack of municipal by-laws or enforcement of penalties regarding littering and non- segregation are the two worst forms of waste governance deficits. If authorities do not enforce it, cities cannot be kept clean for long time. Collecting fees for Services rendered: It is important that people must learn to pay for services. The provision for payment for waste services are there in the laws but are not enforced because of objections by politicians. Surveys suggest that people will pay segregate their waste if there are systems in place Reducing Corruption in administration: There is a direct link between cleaner cities and corruption-free cities. For Ex: Top 10 cleanest cities of the world: Calgary, Honululu, Helsinki, Kobe, Oslo, Adelaide, Brisbane, Wellington etc. have very low corruption index. Conclusion North East India needs to reform its municipal governance along with building capacity of the lower staff of the municipal systems. The Swachh Bharat Mission will not succeed as long as we do not see commitment from the administration. (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 Paradip Port is located in which state? Andhra Pradesh Odisha Kerala Rajasthan Q.2 consider the following statements regarding Build - Operate - Transfer contract: It is one of the models of public private partnership. Initially the projects are built and operated by a public entity and later on it is transferred to the private entity after typically two or three decades. Which of the above is or are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Consider the following statements regarding SAHAYAK – NG: It is India's first indigenously designed and developed Air Droppable Container. It has the capacity to carry the payload that weighs up 200 kg . It can be dropped only from a light aircraft. Which of the above is or are correct? 1 only 1 and 2 only 1, 2 and 3 2 and 3 only Q.4 Which of the following regarding ethanol is incorrect? Ethanol as a fuel is non polluting. Ethanol blending can decrease the dependence on fossil fuels. Ethanol can be used as an alternative fuel to reduce air pollution. Government has fixed target of 20% blending of fuel grade ethanol with petrol by 2022. ANSWERS FOR 31st December 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 D 2 B 3 B 4 C Must Read On reflections on the pandemic and life: The Hindu On Special Marriages Act: The Hindu About UK regulator's approval to Oxford vaccine: Indian Express

Jan 1, 2020 Motivational Articles

[MI-STORIES]MOTIVATIONAL AND INSPIRATIONAL STORIES- The Girl and the pebble!

For Previous Story -> CLICK HERE Inspirational Stories: Here is the second story from the new series of Inspirational and Motivational stories. One of the oldest known forms of communication is story telling. There is something primordial within us that loves stories and their tremendous impact. In this series, we aim to bring you the best of real-life stories that can inspire and motivate you. Stories always try to teach us something useful. It is one of the best ways of learning from other's mistakes and avoiding our own. Although each story has its own moral, in the comments section you can share your opinion on the moral of the story. If you are able to see something that others might have missed, you can share it for the benefit of all. Apart from just reading these awesome stories, you can also share some of the stories that have inspired you. If we find the story appropriate and useful, we will share it with all. More importantly, read these stories every week without a miss, and stay inspired. So here is the first story- The girl and the pebble! Happy New Year to you all :) Here is a wonderful short story about presence of mind to begin your new year with. May you be blessed with abundance of presence of mind this year! “Many years ago in a small Italian town, a merchant had the misfortune of owing a large sum of money to the moneylender. The moneylender, who was old and ugly, fancied the merchant’s beautiful daughter, so he proposed a bargain. He said he would forgo the merchant’s debt if he could marry the daughter. The proposal horrified both the merchant and his daughter. The moneylender told them he would put a black pebble and a white pebble into an empty bag. The girl would then have to pick one pebble from the bag. If she picked the black pebble, she would become the moneylender’s wife and her father’s debt would be forgiven. If she picked the white pebble, she need not marry him and her father’s debt would still be forgiven. If she refused to pick a pebble, her father would be thrown into jail. They were standing on a pebble-strewn path in the merchant’s garden. As they talked, the moneylender bent over to pick up two pebbles. As he picked them up, the sharp-eyed girl noticed that he had picked up two black pebbles and put them into the bag. He then asked the girl to pick her pebble from the bag. The girl put her hand into the bag and drew out a pebble. Without looking at it, she fumbled and let it fall onto the pebble-strewn path where it immediately became lost among all the other pebbles. “Oh, how clumsy of me,” she said. “But never mind, if you look into the bag for the one that is left, you will be able to tell which pebble I picked.” What do you think is the moral of the story?

Jan 1, 2020 TLP Mains 2020

[MAINS FULL MOCK] GENERAL STUDIES (GS) PAPER 4- IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2) UPSC Mains Answer Writing [1st JANUARY,2021]

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Everyone, Please find below the Full Length Mock Test - General Studies (GS) Paper 4. This is a part of TLP 2020 (Phase 2)- UPSC Mains Answer Writing Initiative. All the Best :) Instructions: There are 14 questions. All questions are compulsory. The duration for the test is 120 minutes. Marks and word limit have been indicated against the question Content is more important than the number of words. GENERAL STUDIES (GS) PAPER 4 Questions Q1. (a) If laws and conscience contradict each other, which one should prevail and why? (150 words) (10) (b) Define the following terms with the help of suitable examples: (200 words) (10) Post-truth Devotion Patriotism Tolerance Q2. Given below are two quotations of moral thinkers/philosophers. For each of these, bring out what it means to you in the present context: (a) “Let yourself be silently drawn by the stronger pull of what you really love.” (150 words (10) (b) “You only lose what you cling to.” (150 words) (10) Q3. (a) What is the moral foundation of corporate social responsibility (CSR)? Explain. (150 words) (10) (b) Do you think lack of performance linked financial incentives in the government lead to corruption? Critically comment. (150 words) (10) Q4. (a) With the help of suitable examples, discuss the role of positive attitude and emotional maturity play in a public servant’s professional life. (150 words) (10) (b) What according to you is the guide of last resort for a civil servant? Substantiate your response. (150 words) (10) Q5. Given below are two quotes by moral philosophers. Bring out their significance in the present societal context. (150 words) (10) (a) “The goal is not to be better than the other man, but your previous self.” (b) “Compassion is the radicalism of our time.” Q6. What are the key challenges of corporate governance in India? What are the legal and institutional mechanisms in place to regulate corporate governance? Discuss. (150 words) (10) Q7. Are politics and ethics mutually unreconcilable? Critically comment. (150 words) (10) Q8. Should national interest take precedence over global good in international relations? Share and substantiate your views. (150 words) (10) SECTION – B Q9. You are the officer in-charge of implementing a welfare scheme for poor widowed women. One day an old lady meets you in your office and asks for your support. Even though she is eligible to avail the benefits of the scheme, she doesn’t have the mandatory documents. Your enquiries also show that she is really destitute and living in a pitiable condition. You are in a dilemma as to what to do. Giving her the benefits of the scheme without proper documentation would clearly be a violation of rules. But denying her the support would be cruel and inhuman. What would be your response in this situation? (250 Words) (20) Q10. You have joined as an Assistant Engineer in the public works department. Within month of your joining, a foot-over bridge collapses in your jurisdiction. Upon internal enquiry, it comes out that your predecessor had approved the bridge design and awarded other requisite clearances to the contractor without due caution and safeguards. In lieu of the same, he and your superiors were bribed heftily. When your superiors get to know the facts of the case, they start pressurising you to prepare a sabotage report and blame anonymous vandals for the collapse. It would not only save the officers in your department but also make you the eye candy of the superiors. You might be awarded with bigger and more important projects in the future and you will have a secure career. However, if you don’t follow suit, your superiors have threatened to drag your name also in the case. What can be the best course of action for you in this situation? Explain. (250 Words) (20) Q11. You and your best friend work in the same company. Both of you have been best buddies since your childhood and share each other's deep secrets. You come from a humble background whereas your friend has always been wealthy and extravagant. Your mother is sick and undergoing treatment in a private hospital. You are finding it difficult to meet the treatment expenses from your salary. In fact, you have taken personal loan to ensure that the treatment goes on unaffected. One day in the office, you happen to come across a confidential file that contains the proposal to recommend one employee from the office for promotion. You get to know that your and your friend’s names are being considered for promotion. However, since there is only one vacancy, only one of you will get the promotion. You know that your friend has misreported his date of birth in the official data. Your mind tells you to disclose this information to the bosses without revealing your identity. This way, you would get the promotion and get the much needed financial cushioning. What decision will you take in this situation? Will you listen to your mind? (250 words) (20) Q12. Milgram (1963) examined justifications for acts of genocide offered by those accused at the World War II, Nuremberg War Criminal trials. Their defence often was based on "obedience" - that they were just following orders from their superiors. Milgram wanted to investigate whether Germans were particularly obedient to authority figures as this was a common explanation for the Nazi killings in World War II. Milgram selected participants for his experiment by newspaper advertising for male participants to take part in a study of learning at Yale University. He conducted a series of experiments and came up with the conclusion- Ordinary people are likely to follow orders given by an authority figure, even to the extent of killing an innocent human being. Obedience to authority is ingrained in us all from the way we are brought up. Do you find any similarity between the results of the Milgram experiment and indoctrination of terrorists? Analyse. (250 words) (20) Q13. You are an honest and upright officer. You are made in-charge of a revenue division in the Income Tax Department. You come to know that your division has a poor track record in terms of corruption. Subordinate officers along with the superiors have created a mechanism wherein money flows regularly from the public in lieu of even the regular services provided by the department. You take up the matter and hold a meeting with your officers telling them that any such activity would’t continue further and that you won’t tolerate complaints of graft and corruption. Moreover, you are particular about your image and convey it to the officers also that you don’t need any money from the general public and that you are being paid by the Government for performing your duties. Although the staff seems to have agreed to your instructions, very soon you find yourself in a fix. Firstly, the staff doesn’t feel motivated enough for obvious reasons. Secondly, even general public has started approaching and requesting you to start the old system for it ensured speedy disposal of cases. Analyse the situation and give your comments. Also discuss the way out of this. (250 words) (25) Q14. You are an advisor to the Minister of External Affairs on issues pertaining to bilateral relations. The minister is scheduled to visit a powerful country holding immense strategic and economic opportunities for India. If India can enter into a strategic partnership with the host country, it would help India in tackling challenges related to internal security, defence, energy, food, S&T etc. However, the host country has poor track record in terms of its treatment of its neighbours. In fact in the United Nations, many resolutions have been passed against it for violation of human rights in its neighbouring countries over territorial disputes. The neighbouring countries of the host nation are important for India’s energy security as they have huge petroleum reserves which get exported to India as well. Moreover, the minority community in your country considers these countries sacred for their historical and religious value. They are protesting the visit of the minister and demanding that he must condemn the atrocities made by the host country and also pay a visit to its neighbours. Doing so however will send negative signals to the host nation and whatever goodwill India has earned will be lost. In a situation like this, what are the options available for the minister? Analyse. What would be your advice to the minister and why? Substantiate. (250 Words) (25)

Jan 1, 2020 TLP Mains 2020

[MAINS FULL MOCK] GENERAL STUDIES (GS) PAPER 3- IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2) UPSC Mains Answer Writing [1st JANUARY,2021]

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Everyone, Please find below the Full Length Mock Test - General Studies (GS) Paper 3. This is a part of TLP 2020 (Phase 2)- UPSC Mains Answer Writing Initiative. All the Best :) Instructions: There are 20 questions. All questions are compulsory. The duration for the test is 3 hours. The answers must not exceed 150 words for 10 markers and 250 words for 15 markers. Content is more important than the number of words. GENERAL STUDIES (GS) PAPER 3 Questions 1. What are the possible pitfalls of relaxing inflation target for economic growth? Examine. Should India adopt this strategy? Comment. (10) 2. What are your views on the proposal of setting up a Development Finance Institution (DFI) to meet the financing needs of the infrastructure sector? Discuss. (10) 3. Critically evaluate the idea of an urban MGNREGA for addressing the challenge of unemployment in the urban areas. (10) 4. With the help of suitable examples, discuss the role of regulators in ensuring financial stability in the economy. (10) 5. Analyse the current role and potential of livestock resources in rural power in India. (10) 6. How do advancements in space technology help in agriculture? Illustrate with the help of suitable examples in the Indian context. (10) 7. What lessons can be drawn from the Australian response to the massive bushfires that engulfed a huge region in Australia last year? Discuss. (10) 8. What is ball tracking technology in cricket? How does it work? Explain. (10) 9. Examine the role of external non-state actors in aggravating the problem of drug abuse in India. (10) 10. Would you support the idea of a heavily regulated social media to address the security challenges posed by unbridled social media platforms? Critically comment. (10) 11. What are India’s key security challenges in the costal regions? Discuss. What are the existing institutional measures in place to address those? Discuss. (15) 12. India’s strategic location in the Indian Ocean region gives it the leverage to play an important role in the security architecture of the global south. Elucidate. (15) 13. What are the current challenges of India’s manufacturing export sector? What measures would you suggest to boost exports from India? Discuss. (15) 14. Which sectors have been identified for the Production-Linked Incentives (PLI) scheme? Examine. What are the merits and drawbacks of the PLI scheme? Discuss. (15) 15. Do you think lack of outreach on farm bills has caused discontent amongst farmers. If you were given the opportunity to write an op-ed article to convince the farmer community about the benefits of the new farm laws, what would you write? (15) 16. India's fast-growing telecom and digital space have the potential to ensure a strong rebound of the economy. Do you agree? Substantiate your views. (15) 17. How far can labour jurisprudence be held accountable for India’s precarious unemployment scenario? Comment. What progressive measures have been taken to address the situation in recent years? Discuss. (15) 18. What are India’s key agro-ecological regions? Discuss. What is the basis of this classification? Are current cropping patterns in sync with it? Examine. (15) 19. Examine the severity of economic frauds in India? What are their consequences? Illustrate. (15) 20. What are the key problems faced by India’s credit market? How did it get aggravated during COVID-19? Explain. (15)

Jan 1, 2020 RSTV Video

Takeaways from BRICS Summit – The Big Picture – RSTV IAS UPSC

Takeaways from BRICS Summit Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving Indiaand/or affecting India’s interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. Hosted by: Russia Theme: Global Stability, Shared Security and Innovative Growth During the 12th summit, held in the backdrop of the 75th anniversary of the UN and in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, leaders will be discussing intra-BRICS cooperation and key issues in the global context, including the reform of the multilateral system Discuss measures to mitigate the impact of the ongoing pandemic, cooperation in counter terrorism, trade, health, energy and people to people exchanges. The purpose of the Russian BRICS chairmanship in 2020, as it is for multifaceted cooperation between the BRICS countries, is to contribute to raising living standards and quality of life of our people BRICS counter-terrorism strategy The member countries calls upon all nations to take appropriate measures to prevent the use of their territories for terrorist bases or the perpetration or organization of terrorist acts intended to be committed against other States or their citizens. It also stressed on the need for all States to refrain from organizing, instigating, facilitating, participating in, financing, encouraging or tolerating terrorist activities and to take appropriate practical measures to ensure that their territories are not used for terrorist bases or preparation or organization of terrorist acts intended to be committed against other States or their citizens. The BRICS declaration countries also underlined the cross-border movement of terrorists. BRICS countries recognize that acts, methods and practices of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations are activities aimed at the destruction of human rights, fundamental freedoms and democracy, threatening territorial integrity, security of States, and that the international community should take the necessary steps to enhance cooperation to prevent and combat terrorism, including cross-border movement of terrorists. While Russia was the key drafting country as the host and chair of BRICS this year, China also signed off on the declaration which talked about “respect for territorial integrity” of Syria, Libya, Iraq and in the context of the UN. However, there was no mention of the over six-month border stand-off between India and China. PM Modi at BRICS ‘Self-reliant India’ Campaign: The campaign is based on the belief that a self-reliant and resilient India post-Covid can be a force multiplier for the global economy and make a strong contribution to the global value chains. India was able to send essential medicines to more than 150 countries due to the capability of the Indian pharma industry. Our vaccine production and delivery capacity will also work in the interest of humanity like this. On BRICS economies: BRICS economies will play a crucial role in the global recovery after the pandemic. We have more than 42 per cent of the world’s population, and our countries are among the main engines of the global economy. There is a lot of scope for increasing mutual trade between BRICS countries. Our mutual institutions and systems—such as BRICS Inter-Bank Cooperation Mechanism, New Development Bank, Contingent Reserve Arrangement and Customs Cooperation—can also make our contribution effective in the global recovery. Terrorism: It is the “biggest problem” facing the world and asserted that there was a need to tackle the menace in an organised manner. We have to ensure that the countries that support and assist the terrorists are also held guilty. Reform of UNSC: Underlined the need to reform of the United Nations Security Council as well as multilateral bodies like the World Trade Organisation and the International Monetary Fund. China at BRICS Offered to cooperate with India and other BRICS nations in the development of vaccines against the coronavirus: Chinese companies are working with their Russian and Brazilian partners on phase three clinical trials for vaccines. To support the development of BRICS Vaccine R&D centre, China has designated its own national centre. China proposed a BRICS symposium on traditional medicine to explore its role in coronavirus prevention and treatment China will open the BRICS partnership on a new industrial revolution innovation centre in the Chinese city of Xiamen. About BRICS (Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa) On November 30, 2001, Jim O’Neill, a British economist who was then chairman of Goldman Sachs Asset Management, coined the term ‘BRIC’ to describe the four emerging economies of Brazil, Russia, India, and China. Established in 2009, BRICS represents the collective voice of the Global South with Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa as its members. After its establishment more than a decade ago, BRICS became the first-ever compact non-Western, inter-continental multilateral club. It was lauded as a unique experiment to bring together politically, economically and culturally diverse countries who share a range of concerns and interests with regard to the functioning of the western liberal international order. BRICS has been driven by the idea to challenge, if not dismantle, western hegemony and bring new ideas on the table for global governance. The BRICS is mainly portrayed as a grouping of fast-emerging economies with huge market potential. Bilateral relations among BRICS nations are conducted on the basis of non-interference, equality, and mutual benefit. There are two components that make up the financial architecture of BRICS: New Development Bank (NDB) (BRICS Development Bank) Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA). NOTE: A. BRICS 5G Innovation Base BRICS 5G innovation base has been proposed by China. Objective: To take forward 5G and Artificial Intelligence (AI) cooperation BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa). Key takeaways Due to ongoing tensions between India and China, India is reluctant to join the programme while other countries are willing to allow China’s participation in their 5G networks. India has made clear that a return to normalcy cannot be possible while tensions along the Line of Actual Control remain unresolved. India has also recently joined the ‘Global Partnership on Artificial Intelligence (GPAI)’ as a founding member. Russia has agreed to work with China on 5G. In South Africa, Huawei is providing services to provide 5G networks. Brazil has allowed participation of Huawei in 5G trials. B. Counter-Terrorism Strategy by BRICS The five-nation grouping BRICS has adopted a new counter-terrorism strategy to effectively deal with terrorism. Key takeaways Objective: To complement and strengthen the existing bilateral and multilateral ties among the BRICS countries; To make a meaningful contribution to the global efforts of preventing and combating the threat of terrorism. The BRICS countries reaffirmed that terrorism in all its forms and manifestations constitutes one of the most serious threats to international peace and security and that any act of terrorism committed is a crime and has no justification. They also recognized that the international community should take the necessary steps to enhance cooperation to prevent and combat terrorism, including cross-border movement of terrorists. Connecting the Dots: BRICS represent the aspirations of developing countries. Comment. Do a comparative analysis of the genesis and objectives of BRICS, RIC and IBSA.

Jan 1, 2020 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 1st January 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. This is a part of our recently launched, NEW INITIATIVE IASbaba’s INTEGRATED REVISION PLAN (IRP) 2020 – Road Map for the next 100 Days! FREE 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 the Initiative -> CLICK HERE SCHEDULE/DETAILED PLAN – > 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

Dec 31, 2020 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 31st December 2020

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Preventing Financing Of Proliferation Of Weapons Of Mass Destruction bill passed by Turkey Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II –Internatioanal Relations In news The Turkish parliament passed a bill called “Preventing Financing of Proliferation of Weapons of Mass Destruction”. It would increase the monitoring of civil society groups. Key takeaways The Bill was passed following the 2019 report on Turkey prepared by the intergovernmental body Financial Action Task Force (FATF) meant to fight money laundering and terror financing. The bill consists of 43 articles and has made changes to seven laws on Turkey’s Law of Associations. It is meant to keep Turkey from being blacklisted by the Paris-based watchdog of terror financing. The Bill gives the Turkish government the power to appoint trustees to NGOs, to suspend their activities, seize their assets and monitor their sources of funding. Critics believe that it violates the provisions under the Turkish constitution since it interferes with the right to freedom of association. National Summit On Good, Replicable Practices And Innovations In Public Healthcare Systems In India Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II –Health In news Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare digitally inaugurated the 7th National Summit on Good, Replicable Practices through a video conference. Key takeaways The first one was held in 2013 at Srinagar. The summit is held to recognize, showcase and document various best practices and innovations in public healthcare system. Union Minister of Health also launched New Health Management Information System (HMIS) along with the Operational Guidelines for TB services at AB-HWCs and the Operational Guidelines 2020 on Active Case Detection and Regular Surveillance for Leprosy. Do you know? Indian Prime Minister has set a bold target of a TB-free India by 2025, five years ahead of the SDG targets of 2030. Eye Cancer therapy in the form of the first indigenous Ruthenium-106 Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Sci & Tech In news Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC), Mumbai has developed Eye Cancer therapy in the form of the first indigenous Ruthenium 106 Plaque for treatment of Ocular Tumours. Key takeaways The handling of plaque is very convenient for the Surgeon and it has been acknowledged to be at par with the international standards. So far the BARC plaques made in India through the Department of Atomic Energy have been used for seven cases for Ocular Cancer. Ocular tumours are tumours inside the eye. They are collections of cells that grow and multiply abnormally and form masses. Important value additions Ruthenium-106 Ruthenium-106 is a radioactive form of the rare heavy metal ruthenium, which is a "platinum group" metal similar to platinum. Ruthenium-106 is produced from the fission or splitting of uranium-235, the type of uranium used in nuclear fission reactors, so it's found in spent nuclear fuel. It's used in medicine for cancer radiation therapy, especially for eye and skin tumours. It's also used in radioisotope thermoelectric generators that power satellites. PM to lay Foundation Stone of Light House Projects under GHTC-India Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III –Infrastructure In news Prime Minister will lay the foundation stone of Light House Projects (LHPs) under Global Housing Technology Challenge-India (GHTC-India) at six sites across six States Prime Minister will also announce winners under Affordable Sustainable Housing Accelerators - India (ASHA-India) and give out annual awards for excellence in implementation of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Urban (PMAY-U) Mission. The Prime Minister will also release a certificate course on innovative construction technologies named NAVARITIH (New, Affordable, Validated, Research Innovation Technologies for Indian Housing) and a compendium of 54 innovative housing construction technologies identified through GHTC-India. Key takeaways The Light House Projects (LHPs) showcase the best of new-age alternate global technologies, materials and processes in the construction sector for the first time in India at such a large scale. They are being constructed under GHTC-India which envisages to provide an ecosystem for adoption of innovative technologies in the housing construction sector in a holistic manner. The LHPs are being constructed at Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Rajkot (Gujarat), Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Ranchi (Jharkhand), Agartala (Tripura) and Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh). They comprise about 1000 houses at each location along with allied infrastructure facilities. These projects will demonstrate and deliver ready to live houses at an expedited pace within twelve months, as compared to conventional brick and mortar construction, and They will be more economical, sustainable, of high quality and durability. Important value additions Affordable Sustainable Housing Accelerators - India (ASHA-India) It aims to promote domestic research and entrepreneurship by providing incubation and acceleration support to potential future technologies. Under ASHA-India initiative, five ASHA-India Centers have been set up for providing incubation and acceleration support. The technologies, processes and materials identified through this initiative will provide a major fillip to young creative minds, start-ups, innovators and entrepreneurs. PMAY-U Mission Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana - Urban (PMAY-U) Mission has been designed to achieve the vision of “Housing For All by 2022”. In order to recognize the outstanding contribution by States, UTs,Urban Local Bodies and beneficiaries, the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has introduced annual awards for excellence in implementation of PMAY-Urban. 34th PRAGATI interaction held Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II –Policies and Interventions In news Indian Prime Minister chaired the thirty-fourth PRAGATI interaction. In the meeting, various projects, programmes and grievances were reviewed Important value additions Pro-Active Governance And Timely Implementation (PRAGATI) It is a unique integrating and interactive platform. The platform is aimed at addressing common man’s grievances, and simultaneously monitoring and reviewing important programmes and projects of the Central and State Governments It is also a robust system for bringing e-transparency and e-accountability with real-time presence and exchange among the key stakeholders. The PRAGATI platform uniquely bundles three latest technologies: Digital data management, video-conferencing and geo-spatial technology. It is a three-tier system (PMO, Union Government Secretaries, and Chief Secretaries of the States). The system has been designed in-house by the PMO team with the help of National Informatics Center (NIC). Cabinet Approves Export of Akash Missile System Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III –Trade; Defence and Security In news Recently, Cabinet approved export of Akash Missile System. Under the Atma Nirbhar Bharat, India is growing in its capabilities of manufacturing wide variety of Defence platforms and missiles. Key takeaways Akash is country’s important missile with over 96% indigenisation. Akash is a Surface to Air Missile with a range of 25 Kms. The missile was inducted in 2014 in IAF and in 2015 in Indian Army A Committee is created for faster approval of exports. This Committee would authorise subsequent exports of major indigenous platforms to various countries. The Committee would also explore various available options including the Government-to-Government route. Government of India intends to focus on exporting high value defence platforms, to achieve target of 5 Billion USD of defence export and improve strategic relations with friendly foreign countries. The export version of Akash will be different from System currently deployed with Indian Armed Forces. Cabinet approves MoU between India and Bhutan on Cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II –International relations In news The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister approved Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the India and Bhutan on Cooperation in the peaceful uses of outer space. Key takeaways This MoU shall enable India and Bhutan to pursue cooperation in potential interest areas, such as remote sensing of the earth; satellite communication and satellite based navigation; Space science and planetary exploration; use of spacecraft and space systems and ground system; and application of space technology. This MoU would lead to set up a Joint Working Group which will further work out the plan of action including the time-frame and the means of implementation The signed MoU will provide Impetus to explore cooperation possibilities in the field of remote sensing of the earth; satellite communication; satellite navigation; space science and exploration of outer space. Cabinet approves Opening of 3 Indian Missions in Estonia, Paraguay and Dominican Republican Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – International Relations In news The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister approved the opening of 3 Indian Missions in Estonia, Paraguay and Dominican Republic in 2021. Opening of Indian Missions in these countries will help expand India’s diplomatic footprint, deepen political relations, enable growth of bilateral trade, investment and economic engagements, facilitate stronger people-to-people contacts, bolster political outreach in multilateral fora and help garner support for India’s foreign policy objectives. Indian mission in these countries will also better assist the Indian community and protect their interests. (Mains Focus) ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: General Studies 2,3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development. Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation PM SVANidhi scheme for street vendors Context: The PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme was launched in June amid the pandemic. What is the scheme all about? It is a micro-credit facility that provides street vendors a collateral-free loan of Rs 10,000 with low rates of interest for a period of one year. So far (Dec 2020), the scheme – part of the AtmaNirbhar Bharat package – has received 31.6 Lakh applications from across the country (except from Sikkim, which is officially not taking part in it). Of the total applications, 16.7 Lakh have been sanctioned and 12.17 Lakh have been disbursed. Why was this scheme rolled out? To deal with Impact of Pandemic & Lockdown: The COVID-19 pandemic and the nationwide lockdown disrupted the business cycle and left daily wage workers & street vendors out of work. The scheme aims at aiding the vendors at getting back on their feet financially. Establishing Credit Score & Digital Record: In the long term, it aims at establishing a credit score for the vendors as well as creating a digital record of their socio-economic status, so that they can avail the Central government schemes later. Prevents Debt Trap: Many vendors belong to what we call the informal economy, and often borrow from private lenders which charge them exorbitant rates of interest. This loan charges below 12% rate of interest, and helps prevent street vendors from falling into debt trap. Formalisation of Economy: The scheme also attempts to formalise the informal sector of the economy and provide them safety nets and a means of availing loans in the future. Which vendors are eligible for the loan, and how do they apply for it? All vendors who have been vending from or before March 24, 2020 and with a certificate of vending can avail the loan. As per the Street Vendors Act of 2014, the Town Vending Committees (which comprises the local authorities and vendors from an area) issue a certificate of vending after a survey has been conducted of all the vendors. But since many states and cities have not conducted the survey yet, many vendors are unable to provide any such certificate of vending. Instead, as per scheme, the urban local bodies – in this case, the municipalities – shall provide a Letter of Recommendation (LOR) for every vendor who wishes to avail the loan. If the vendor is a member of a vendor association, he or she can apply, These documents, including the identification proof, are uploaded on a special portal made for the scheme, and the loans are sanctioned by banks and disbursed, ideally, in 10-15 days. Does the scheme legitimise vending of the applicants if the city has not conducted a Town Vending Committee survey as per the Act? Once Letter Of Recommendation is issued by the ULBs, its mandate lasts a month, after which the survey for the issuance of the certificate of vending should be undertaken by the ULBs. But since it is a state subject, the central government can only direct or sensitise the state governments on the importance of doing so, and not evicting vendors who have availed the loan but do not have a certificate. The LORs issued by the ULB do not give any legal authorisation or rights for vending, as this is not mentioned by the scheme What are the various challenges that vendors are facing while applying for the loan? Even though the scheme has received a tremendous response from vendors across the country, certain areas lag others when it comes to its implementation due to various factors. City-wide survey of vendors is lacking: States across the country have unevenly implemented the Street Vendors Act of 2014, which necessitates a survey of the vendors to provide them with a certificate of vending. Delay in issuing LORs: Due to lack of comprehensive data, the vendors must first apply for a Letter of Recommendation (LORs) from the ULBs, which tends to not only delay the entire process, but can also lead to the application being rejected. Some municipalities are also slow in issuing LORs, which has kept hundreds of vendors waiting for the loan for months Linkage with Aadhar: Another issue was that mobile numbers of various vendors were not linked with their Aadhar cards. To address this, various ULBs have now set up camps. Many vendor associations are also setting up camps at markets to rectify this issue and also help the vendors in the online application process. Mindset of local authorities against vendors: Various vendors who have received the loans are often evicted from their place by either the police or by the ULB officials, hitting their only source of income and their ability to repay the loan. Regional Imbalance in disbursement of loans: Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh are among the better performing states, which have provided certificates of vending either before the pandemic or in the past few months. Other states are lagging behind. Conclusion Even though the scheme has received a tremendous response from vendors across the country, certain areas lag others when it comes to its implementation due to various factors. Connecting the dots: Atmanirbhar Bharat ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: General Studies 2,3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development. Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation Electric Vehicles Issues Electric car sales as a percentage of overall car sales in India is abysmally low at less than 0.2%. Electric scooters fare slightly better at 0.4% of overall two-wheeler sales -- a worrying sign despite incentives like reducing GST on electric vehicles to 5%, providing income tax benefits and waiving road tax. There are only 650 charging stations in India. The biggest challenge is the availability of reliable power supply at these charging stations, especially along highways. Way Ahead To promote EV uptake, the government should consider waiving highway toll fees for EVs, perhaps till 2025. Environmental bonus for car-makers and purchase price subsidies for EV buyers. India has set a goal that by 2030, 30% of cars sold annually should be EVs. But to realise this goal, the buyer, government, and the industry need to play their respective parts effectively. The government should aggressively work on improving the public charging infrastructure through a PPP model. The government must incentivise and push for solar-based charging stations. India needs to invest in alternative technologies like induction charging. Any research on creating an affordable mass-market solution for highways, parking lots, etc., will revolutionise India’s EV market. Another area for research is on developing mass-market solid-state batteries for EVs. While FAME (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and EV) schemes are a step in the right direction, the government must create a strong EV ecosystem to help India become a leading player in the EV manufacturing and components space. (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 Which of the following states of India border Bhutan? Sikkim West Bengal Assam Bihar Arunachal Pradesh Select the correct code: 1, 2, and 4 only 1, and 5 only 2, 3 and 5 only 1, 2, 3 and 5 only Q.2 Which of the following statements regarding PRAGATI is incorrect? It is a three-tier system The PRAGATI platform makes use of video-conferencing and geo-spatial technology only. The platform is aimed at addressing common man’s grievances. Important programmes and projects of the Central and State Governments are reviewed through PRAGATI Q.3 Which of the following sea borders Turkey in the north? Red Sea Black sea Aegean Sea Marmara Sea Q. 4 Consider the following statements regarding Ruthenium-106: It is a radioactive form of the rare heavy metal ruthenium. It's used in medicine for cancer radiation therapy, especially for eye and skin tumours. Which of the above is or are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 31st December 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 A Must Read About India and Nepal Political Crisis: The Hindu About Delhi Police raid on Delhi riots lawyer: Indian Express

Dec 31, 2020 TLP Mains 2020

[MAINS FULL MOCK] GENERAL STUDIES (GS) PAPER 2- IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2) UPSC Mains Answer Writing [31st DECEMBER,2020]

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Everyone, Please find below the Full Length Mock Test - General Studies (GS) Paper 2. This is a part of TLP 2020 (Phase 2)- UPSC Mains Answer Writing Initiative. All the Best :) Instructions: There are 20 questions. All questions are compulsory. The duration for the test is 3 hours. The answers must not exceed 150 words for 10 markers and 250 words for 15 markers. Content is more important than the number of words. GENERAL STUDIES (GS) PAPER 2 Questions 1. What are your views on the right to peaceful protest? Should it be allowed if it disrupts the daily life of citizens? Critically examine. (10) 2. What role do grass-root democracy and decentralised governance play in national integration? Examine. (10) 3. Examine the evolution of ‘secularism’ as a basic structure of the Indian constitution. (10) 4. Do you support administrative interventions by the judiciary in matters of public importance? Substantiate your views with the help of suitable arguments. (10) 5. What is lobbying? Discuss. How is it different from the activities of pressure groups? examine. (10) 6. Do you think India’s surrogacy laws strike a balance between individual liberty and human dignity? Substantiate. (10) 7. Critically evaluate the genesis and evolution of India’s economic federalism. How does it affect politics in India. (10) 8. What are India’s critical challenges as an emerging player in solar energy at the WTO forum? Explain. (10) 9. What are the main features of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)? How does it impact India’s interests? Discuss. (10) 10. There is an urgent need to shift focus from ‘access’ to ‘learning outcomes’ in India’s education system? Do you agree? Substantiate. (10) 11. What are views on the relevance of and role of the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC)? Isn’t censorship anachronistic in a mature democracy like India? Critically comment. (15) 12. What merits do you see in the proposal of holding general and state elections simultaneously? Do you support this idea? Share and substantiate your views. (15) 13. How is social media affecting institutions of governance in India? Illustrate. What are views on the same? Discuss. (15) 14. How does politics in states along India’s international borders affect India’s diplomacy? Illustrate. (15) 15. The increasing Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean region will have a debilitating effect on India’s economic and strategic interests. Comment. What are India’s plans to counter Chinese influence in the region? Discuss. (15) 16. With the help of suitable examples, illustrate the significance of infrastructure expansion in friendly countries to further India’s strategic and economic interests. (15) 17. What are special category states? What benefits do they avail? Discuss. Do you think the increasing clamour for getting the special category status by some states is genuine? Discuss. (15) 18. Do you think the recently enacted farm laws will address the vulnerability of Indian farmers? Critically examine. (15) 19. What are the key areas of convergence between India and the European Union (EU)? Why haven’t the ties between the two attained the true potential? Examine. (15) 20. Do you think India’s foreign policy towards the troubled Middle-East has matured in the last decade? Critically comment. (15)

Dec 31, 2020 TLP Mains 2020

[MAINS FULL MOCK] GENERAL STUDIES (GS) PAPER 1- IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2) UPSC Mains Answer Writing [31st DECEMBER,2020]

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Everyone, Please find below the Full Length Mock Test - General Studies (GS) Paper 1. This is a part of TLP 2020 (Phase 2)- UPSC Mains Answer Writing Initiative. All the Best :) Instructions: There are 20 questions. All questions are compulsory. The duration for the test is 3 hours. The answers must not exceed 150 words for 10 markers and 250 words for 15 markers. Content is more important than the number of words. GENERAL STUDIES (GS) PAPER 1 Questions 1. What has been the contribution of Edwin Lutyens to India’s modern architecture? Discuss. (10) 2. Valour and bravery are recurring themes in India’s literary tradition. Do you agree? Illustrate with the help of suitable examples. (10) 3. How did contemporary thinkers and philosophers in the early 20th century shape the nationalistic discourse in India? Examine. (10) 4. Why did the British witness several tribal uprisings in India? Explain with the help of suitable examples. (10) 5. Many historians and political commentators describe India’s partition in the year 1947 as inevitable. What are your views on the same? discuss. (10) 6. Do you think the 1960s standout as a decade of political and economic chaos for India? Substantiate your views. (10) 7. How did the Spanish Flu (1918) affect the world? What was the global response to it? Discuss. (10) 8. In what ways has globalisation affected the dynamics of social institutions in India? Examine. (10) 9. Do various social media platforms reflect the true societal reality? Critically comment. (10) 10. Comment upon India’s endowment in renewable energy. What are the challenges in tapping the potential of renewables? Discuss. (10) 11. What are your views on India’s intervention in Sri Lanka’s civil strife in the 1980s? Was it necessary? Critically comment. (15) 12. Discuss the genesis of the Israel-Palestine conflict. How far can colonial powers be held responsible for it? Examine. (15) 13. Examine three decisions taken by three different American Presidents in the 20th century that proved to be landmarks in modern history. (15) 14. For many colonies, end of colonialism was marked with an age of bloody internal strife and economic crisis. Why? Discuss with the help of suitable examples. (15) 15. Examine the forces that have led to counter-globalisation? How strong these forces are in your opinion? Do you see a chance for these forces to get reversed in near future? Comment. (15) 16. What are cloudbursts? Why do they occur? Which parts of India are more prone to cloudbursts and why? Discuss. (15) 17. Can India emulate the Chinese model of export led manufacturing growth? What are the challenges of that approach? Discuss. (15) 18. How does frontal precipitation occur? Which parts in India receive frontal rains? How is it different from convective precipitation? Explain. (15) 19. What are fold mountains? What are the forces responsible for their formation? Discuss the global distribution of prominent fold mountains. (15) 20. What are the challenges associated with India’s prevailing urbanisation pattern? Discuss. What measures would you suggest to make urbanisation more sustainable in India? (15)

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