Jan 15, 2021 IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Quiz

UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 15th January 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

Jan 14, 2021 TLP Mains Answer Writing

SYNOPSIS [14th JANUARY,2021] Day 4: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE   SYNOPSIS [14th JANUARY,2021] Day 4: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   Q1. How did internal rivalries lead to early British expansion and control in India? Discuss. Approach Students are expected to write about internal rivalries in India. And how internal rivalries lead to British expansion and control in India.  Introduction  There was a vacuum of power in India after the Mughal Empire got fractured falling under its own weight. Its various governors and rebel commanders established their superiority at different places and started fighting against each other. Even though there were powerful Indian states like Punjab, Mysore and the Marathas that ruled Indian subcontinent during the mid-19th century, many of them were fighting with each other for different reasons. They failed to perceive the danger arising from the East India Company and could not unite against a common foreign enemy. Body Internal rivalries lead to early British expansion and control in India: Carnatic Wars: It was the succession disputes in both the Carnatic and Hyderabad that opened the gates for the British and the French to play the roles of middlemen and thus in order to grind their axe both European powers had a golden opportunity for intervention in support of various rival Indian claimants. Later French were checked by British forces under Robert Clive in 1751 AD. Robert Clive changed the course of the war. And gained control over region. Battle of Plassey: The battle was hardly important from the military point of view. It was a mere skirmish. The English army didn’t show military superiority. It was desertion in the Nawab’s camp and treason that resulted in the victory of Clive. Clive excelled in the game of diplomacy and used Jagat Seth and Mir Jafar to win without fighting. It gave the British the access to the rich resources of Bengal. These were used to win the wars in Deccan including defeating the French in the Third Carnatic war, and also to extend influence overNorthern India. Anglo Mysore War: The Nizam of Hyderabad and the Marathas launched an invasion from the north. The British won a decisive victory at the Battle of Seringapatam in 1799. Tipu was killed during the defence of the city. Much of the remaining Mysorean territory was annexed by the British, the Nizam and the Marathas. Lack of Maratha unity: “The Maratha unity was artificial and fortuitous, and therefore un­certain”. It was this basic weakness that stood against the Maratha Power and it did neither acquire real strength nor permanence. After the death of Madhav Rao the Marathas were caught in the meshes of mutual hostilities and machinations; the result was that the Marathas could not put up that unity, sense of purpose, strength and patriotism which were necessary to meet the English. Anglo Sikh War: The immediate cause for the English Company’s invasion of the Punjab was the revolt of Mulraj, the Governor of Multan. The final and decisive battle at Gujrat near Chenab was won by the English in 1849. This war resulted in the annexation of Punjab. In March 1849, Lord Dalhousie annexed Punjab under the Treaty of Lahore and pensioned off Dalip Singh to England along with his mother Rani Jindan. The second Anglo Sikh War ended with British conquest of Punjab. Annexation of Sindh: Many people helped the British in the conquest of Sindh, including a Hindu government minister of Sindh, Mirs of Khairpur, Chandio Tribesmen, and Khosa Tribesmen. Then, Charles Napier hired Khosa Baloch tribesman. Chandio Baloch Sardar brought a cavalry of 10,000 to support Charles Napier in the Miani war, but did not participate in the actual war, and his armies stood on reserve to attack in case Charles Napier lost the war. For his role, Chandio sardar got Chandka (present day Larakana, Qambar- Shahdadkot districts) as Jagir. Other factors lead to British expansion in India were: Nationalist Pride: An economically thriving British people believing in material advancement and proud of their national glory faced the ‘weak, divided-amongst-themselves Indians’ bereft of a sense of unified political nationalism. Civil Discipline and Fair Selection System: The Company officers and troops were given charge on the basis of their reliability and skill and not on hereditary or caste and clan ties. Better Military Discipline and Regular Salary: A regular system of payment of salaries and a strict regime of discipline were the means by which the English Company ensured that the officers and the troops were loyal. Strong Financial Backup: The income of the Company was adequate enough to pay its shareholders handsome dividends as also to finance the English wars in India. Conclusion By the middle of the nineteenth century AD, the British had firmly established their position in India. A large part of the country was under direct British rule. The areas that remained independent were indirectly under British influence. India was subjugated politically as well as economically. The economic exploitation of India was a result of its political subjugation. Q2. Comment upon the role of peasants during initial phase of freedom struggle Approach  Question is straight forward. Demand of question is factual in the first half and analytical in second half. Stressing on the importance of peasants in freedom struggle its impact on post independent India ca be underlined in conclusion. Introduction  Indian peasants suffered from high rents, illegal levies, arbitrary eviction and unpaid labour in zamindari areas. The peasants often resisted the exploitation and realised that their real enemy is colonial state. Desperate peasants took to crime to come out of intolerable conditions. These included robbery, dacoity and social banditry. Body What are the reasons of impoverishment of Indian peasantry under colonial rule? Colonial economic policies Ruin of handcrafts industry led to overcrowding in agriculture New land revenue system Colonial administrative and judicial system High rents, illegal levies, arbitrary evictions, unpaid labour in zamindari areas. Peasant movements in nineteenth century Indigo revolt (1859-60) In Bengal European indigo planters exploited local peasants by forcing peasants to grow indigo on their land instead of rice or other profit making crops. Anger of peasants exploded in 1859 when under Digambar biswas of nadia district they decided not to grow indigo and resist physical pressure from planters. Bengali intelligentsia played significant role in this cause through campaigns and mass meetings. Government appointed indigo commission and issued a notification that ryots could not be compelled to grow indigo. Pabna agrarian league- oppressive practices of zamindars in eastern Bengal caused unrest. Rents beyond legal limits prevented tenants from acquiring occupancy rights under act X of 1859. As a result to fight back pabna agrarian league was constituted. The form of struggle was that of a legal resistance there was little violence. Government to protect tenants from oppression passed Bengal tenancy act of 1885. Deccan riots- Ryots of deccan suffered heavy taxation under ryotwari system. Peasants found themselves trapped in vicious network of moneylenders. Most of them were outsider’s marwaris or gujratis. Crash in cotton prices due to American civil war worsened situation. Growing tension between moneylenders and peasants resulted on social boycott movement against outsiders in villages of Pune, Ahmednagar and satara. As a conciliary measure Deccan agriculturist relief act was passed in 1879. Weaknesses of 19th century movements –  They lacked adequate understanding of colonialism  They did not possess new ideology or new social, economic or political programme Militant struggles occurred within old societal order lacking a positive conception of an alternative society Outcomes of early peasant movements –  Peasants emerged as main force in agrarian movements fighting directly for their demands Their demands were concentrated on economic issues. There was no continuity of struggle or long term organisation Peasants developed a strong awareness of their political and legal rights and asserted them in and outside the courts. Objective of these movements was not to end subordination or exploitation of peasants as their struggle was directed against the immediate neighbour of zamindars and moneylenders. Later in the 20th century peasant movements were influenced by national freedom struggle. Kisan sabha movement, Eka movement, Mappila revolt, bardoli satyagraha, champaran satyagraha are some examples which contributed immensely to the freedom struggle. Conclusion In the initial phase of freedom struggle, mass movements did not made much of a impact. But peasants in organised form recognised enemy and their mode of exploitation thereby contributing to greater cause of awareness among masses. Hinterland and countryside was cut off from the freedom struggle, with these movements freedom fighters penetrated in these spaces making them aware of their rights and also advocated their cause in front of the government. This resulted in India taking post-independence land reforms and agriculture revolution. Q3. What were the consequences of the Surat split? Analyse. Approach  As the derivative is analyse you have to break an issue into constituent parts and explain how these relate to one other and present as one summary. Introduction  While working together for the Bengal movement, the extremists were of the view that the movement should be expanded and should target the government. The moderate leadership which was invited to see the process of administrative reforms by the British felt it would be dangerous to rouse the British at this time. Both sides thus viewed each other as the enemy. The extremist leader Tilak and moderate leader Gokhale wanted to avoid split as they knew that divided congress could be easily subdued by the British. But they had to kneel before the other leaders of their factions. Finally, on 1907 under president ship of Rash Bihari Ghosh the party split in Surat. Body The Consequences of the Surat Split Immediately after the split the leaders of the extremists were repressed by the government and the faction was left leaderless. Tilak was imprisoned in Burma; Aurobindo Ghosh gave up politics for religion. Pal retired from politics and Lala Lajpat Rai went abroad for an extended stay. The moderates too were fooled and no concessions were given by the Morley Minto reforms. Instead, it sowed the seeds of communal representation and which finally led to the partition of India. They lost their credibility and support. The period from 1907-1914 was a dark period for the congress. The efforts by the eminent person like Ravindra Nath Tagore to bring Extremist and Moderates together in the aftermath of the Surat split, were in vain and further in the 1908 Allahabad convention, the adoption of resolutions by the Moderates for permanently disqualifying the Extremist section of the Congress led to the significant decline of nationalism in India. Extremism was confined mainly to Bengal, Maharashtra and Punjab, where outbreak of terrorism allowed the government to unleash repression. With extremist leaders like Tilak in prison, the moderate-dominated Congress was immersed in total inactivity. The moderates after the Surat Split in 1907 demanded colonial self-government, as against the extremist demand of complete independence. The British Government followed the policy of divide and Rule' and in order to curb and isolate the militant nationalists and suppress them they tried to win over moderate nationalist opinion. In 1909 the Separate electorates were granted to the Muslims and congress was at its low. The most critical and vocal elements were not a part of the INC. Thus, the British had taken absolute advantage over the INC. The Minto-Morley Reform of 1909 can be said to be the direct outcome of the Surat Split 1907. The split also greatly weakens both the parties.  The constitutional politics of the moderates had failed to impress the British government and that was amply reflected in the Morley-Minto Reforms of 1909.As a result, the moderate leaders had lost touch with the younger generation of nationalists who wanted to see the results and this was also the major cause of emergence of revolutionaries. The Extremists were hounded by official repression and liberals were abandoned by their own people. It was here that the revolutionary terrorism raised its head. The youth of Bengal was not interested in the petition politics of the moderates.  The Surat Split 1907 was a turning point in the history of Nationalist Movement in India. It meant a victory of the Extremists over the Moderates it also marked a change in the policy and attitude of the Government towards the nationalist moderates to the government side Conclusion British policy of Divide and Rule, saw a major victory in form of Surat Split and the British believed that they were in control of the affairs of the INC after significant period of time. While the leadership of the Congress remained in the hands of the Moderates for some time more, as the Extremists worked separately till 1916. Later both groups reunited at Lucknow session of Congress in 1916 due to the efforts of the leaders of Home Rule movement. Q4. Examine the philosophical basis of the Swadeshi movement. How did it affect the views and perspectives of average Indian back then? Discuss. Approach The question demands thorough explanation of Swadeshi movement from philosophical basis and how it changed the perspective of average Indian that time. A fair explanation of how swadeshi movement changed the course of freedom struggle and enabled Indian masses to be part of it is also required. Introduction The Swadeshi movement was part of the Indian independence movement and contributed to the development of Indian nationalism. The movement, begun in 1906 by Indian nationals opposed to the Partition of Bengal, was one of the most successful movements against British rule. There were however multiple other reasons that led to discontent amongst Indians like,Growing awareness about the economic exploitation by Britishers of Indian masses through drain of wealth theory.Diverting fund for railways and police instead of education and famines.Passing of Indian university commission Act 1904 which increased the official control over universities by increasing the nominated elements over the elected ones.Punjab land alienation Act of 1900 which prohibited any sale or purchase of land for 15 years by non-peasants. Body Philosophical basis- Originally, Indian social structure was divided and purely based on duties performed by different sections of people. The concept ensured true division of labour and mass production. This improved the workmanship, perfection and speed of work. The Swadeshi movement was an economic strategy aimed at removing the British Empire from power and improving economic conditions in India. The application of swadeshi in politics calls for the revival of the indigenous institutions and strengthening them to overcome some of its defects. The ideological inspiration for this new politics came from the new regional literature, which provided a discursive field for defining the Indian nation in terms of its distinct cultural heritage or civilisation. This was also a response to gendered discourse of colonialism that had established the philosophical connection between musculanity and political domination, stereotyping the colonised society as having un-manly characters and therefore unfit for rule. Concept of swadeshi later became the basis of all the anti-British movements and became fundamental in Gandhian philosophy. Gandhi described swadeshi as 'law of laws' ingrained in the basic nature of human being. It is a universal law. Like nature's law it needs no enacting. It is self-acting one. When one neglects or disobeys it due to ignorance or other reasons, the law takes its own course to restore to the original position like the laws of nature. Change in views and perspectives of Indian people –  The Marathas, Rajputs and Sikhs stereotyped in colonial ethnography as Martial Races were now placed in the Aryan tradition and appropriated as national heroes. Leaders were idolised as champions of national glory. The Indian political leaders also looked back to ancient Indo-Aryan political traditions as alternatives to colonial political systems. The Indian tradition was described as more democratic with strong emphasis village self-government. The movement was a turning point in modern Indian history. It proved to be a “leap forward” in more ways than one. The previously untouched sections like students, women, and workers, some sections of the urban and rural population participated. The trend of the national movement moved from conservative moderation to political extremism, from revolutionary activities to incipient socialism, from petitions and prayers to passive resistance and non-cooperation, emerged during the Swadeshi Movement. The anti-partition agitation paved the way for the development of indigenous industries, for example, Acharya PC Ray’s Bengal Chemical Stores. This inculcated a feeling of self-reliance by reducing the dependence on foreign goods. The movement also increased the demand for national education and numerous national schools and colleges came up in various parts of the country. Samitis mobilized people at mass level by engaging in various types of activities such social work during famines festivals, preaching swadeshi message, organizing crafts, setting up arbitration. Various samitis came up in many parts of Bengal such as Swadesh Bandhab Samiti, Dacca Anushilan courts. Moreover the movement gave confidence to the masses to fight the british with more energy and vigour, Also It led to building of self-reliance or Atma Shakti asserting on national dignity, honor and confidence. Swadeshi movement led the people to learn to challenge and disobey the British government explicitly without fearing the atrocities of the police and imprisonment. Conclusion Though he Swadeshi Movement was not successful in reaching its immediate goals but it provided a platform for the national freedom struggle. Later it showed the way to nationalist leaders to prepare the masses for the next phase of struggle under Gandhiji’s leadership. Q5. What were the key achievements of the moderates? What were the limitations of their means and methods? Discuss. Approach A Straightforward question which is divided into two parts where the first part should explain what the key achievements of the moderates were while the second part should discuss the limitations of their means and methods to fulfil the overall demand of the question. Introduction The Moderates were the ones who dominated the affairs of the Indian National Congress from 1885-1905 who believed in patience, steadiness, conciliation and union. They were called moderates because they appeal through petitions, speeches and articles loudly professing loyalty to the British Raj.  Body The leader of the first phase of the National Movement were A.O. Hume, W.C. Banerjee, Surendra Nath Banerjee, Dadabhai Naoroji, Feroze Shah Mehta, etc. who were staunch believers in liberalism  and moderate politics . The key achievements of moderates can be seen from the following points: They were the architect of first all India political forum. They build up a political platform which became the focal point of national mainstream movement in the years to come. They represented the most aggressive forces of the time which transform the Indian political notion. They were able to create anti-colonial ideology and political awakening and consciousness among the public. The moderate nationalism promoted the national consciousness and national identity. They laid the foundation for the growth of feeling of India as a nation. They fostered a sense of political unity, spirit of togetherness and unity of purpose. They were able to expose the myth of benevolent despotism of British rule in India. Through their economic critique and criticism of British policies etc., they uncovered the exploitative nature of British rule in India. They exposed the true nature of the colonial rule and elements associated with it –that Indian poverty was result of colonial exploitation. They could corrode much of the popular belief in benevolence and good will of imperial rule. In order to create public opinion in England, the Moderates arranged lectures in different parts of England. Moderates used different types of newspaper and chronicles to criticise the government policies through newspaper like Bengali newspaper, Bombay chronicle, Hindustan Times, Induprakash, Rast Goftar and a weekly journal India. They also began process of inculcating national sentiments among the people in organised manner. They strengthened democratic conception popularised the idea of representative institutions and elective principles. Some of the other major achievements of moderates included passing of Indian Council’s Act of 1882, formation of Welby commission on Indian expenditure in 1895 and passing of resolution in House of commons for simultaneous examinations in 1893. However, the moderates also suffered from some limitations in terms of their means and methods, which can be seen from the points given below –  The moderate phase leaders were criticized for the methods they used i.e. 3 P's -prayers, petitions and protests. These methods were criticized as being inadequate for challenging the British might in India.  Further the lack of participation of masses in the movement has been criticized as the major drawback as the leaders were mainly educated middle class professionals like lawyers, teachers, journalist and civil servants etc. The masses mainly played a passive role during the moderate phase of national movement. Thus, it had a limited social appeal. They were geared towards rectifying the un-Britishness of the British rule in India. The moderates expected the British to guide India, help her conquer the cultural and social backwardness and then transform into progressive country which would lead to establishment of representative government. For them the interests of the British and Indians were similar rather than opposites. Contrary to its claim as representing all communities, an important limitation was that majority of the moderates were Hindus. Between the period of 1892-1909, Hindus comprised 90% of the delegates attending the Congress.  As moderates started to become more assertive, the British became unfriendly, and began to encourage Muslims to stay away from the Congress. Sir Sayyid Ahmed Khan and other prominent Muslim leaders feared that INC’s demand for ‘elected council’ would mean Hindu majority rule. End result was formation of separate Muslim league (in 1906). Moderates could have gained following among the women and mill workers, but it did not champion the mining, factory and labour reform bills in Bombay, due to lobbying from its industrialists members and donors Political ideologies of the moderates were blamed to be inefficient. Methods followed by moderates were described as political mendicancy. The result was emergence of a more militant school of thought. Conclusion However, the role of moderates can also not be negated. They were first to create national awakening among Indians and prepared a solid ground for mass oriented national movement at later stages that followed which awakened another generation of nationalists who continued to demand for their rights. TLP HOT Synopsis Day 4 PDF

Jan 14, 2021 Important Articles

[ANNOUNCEMENT] IASbaba Proudly Announces Opening in LUCKNOW - City of Nawabs!!!

Dear Friends, On the eve of Makar Sankranti, we are giving you one more reason to celebrate! We are coming to Lucknow - City of Nawabs!!! Yes! You heard it right. Lucknow is going to be the next city where IASbaba is going to have its footprint. Life is all about growing, from within and outside. Often times, love and support are the engines that drive the desire to grow. In our case also, it is no different. More than 5 years of continued affection and trust from the civil services aspirants community have given us the motivation to go beyond our comfort zones and serve you in as many ways as possible. It is a part of such endeavours that we have decided to open our centre in Lucknow.  When we launched IASbaba online 5 years back never had we anticipated the reception we would get! There were multiple platforms already and it’s a general rule that only 2 platforms survive. For example, in search engines people use mostly google and few bing but after that it is very very less. There is hardly ever a third in a platform. But IASbaba has broken this rule! Not only broken but risen to occupy millions of hearts of aspirants. We keep wondering what made this possible?  God’s Grace, Hard work, Quality of IASbaba and Passion of the team. All of that can be captured in the love and loyalty of you – the aspirant! The educational revolution that we started from South, reached the North when we opened our center in Delhi, and now we are going to take it to all four directions in India starting from Lucknow. Our online presence has made us an integral part in the lives of the UPSC aspirants. However, many a times students want the physical presence of their teachers to stay motivated and grounded. We have also realised that while online education has democratised access to knowledge and created a level playing field, one can’t do away with brick and mortar classrooms. As an institution that revolutionised civil services preparation in 2015, we shall always be rooted to digital space. However, we also want to create the option of physical access to our teachers and experts.  We are sure that the culture of excellence rooted in IASbaba’s professional ethos would help us deliver the best solutions to you preparation needs in Lucknow, the way we are doing at Bangalore and Delhi.    Therefore, we have decided to launch IASbaba’s much-awaited Prelims Exclusive Program (PEP) and All India Prelims Test Series (AIPTS) in Lucknow tagetting UPSC Prelims 2021. Since prelims is the first stepping stone for success in the civil services, it made sense to start with our offline Prelims initiative.  To Know More About PRELIMS EXCLUSIVE MENTORSHIP PROGRAM (PEP) -> CLICK HERE To Know More About ALL INDIA PRELIMS TEST SERIES (AIPTS) 2021 -> CLICK HERE Interested aspirants can fill the below form- REGISTRATION FORM   Please be informed that PEP will continue in its online avatar as before. The offline lecture delivery mode will be available at our Lucknow Centre.  Office at Lucknow will be functional from 25th of January, and classes will start from 1st of February, 2021. So, are you ready Lucknow? IASbaba is looking forward to all your support and love! OFFICE ADDRESS of IASbaba’s Lucknow Centre: IASbaba, B-1/66, Sector J, Sector-A, Sector L, Aliganj, Lucknow, - 226024 (Landmark: Near Mr Brown / Opp to Sahu Studio). Contact: 9911778098/ 8429688885 Email: pep@iasbaba.com/support@iasbaba.com Thank You IASbaba

Jan 14, 2021 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th January 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Ministry of Defence (MoD) seeks to exempt armed forces personnel from the ambit of decriminalization of adultery Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Defence and Security  In news  The Supreme Court recently admitted a petition filed by the Ministry of Defence (MoD).  MoD has sought to exempt armed forces personnel from the ambit of a Constitution Bench judgment of 2018 that decriminalised adultery. Key takeaways  A three-judge Bench led by Justice Rohinton Fali Nariman said the plea had to be considered by a Constitution Bench because the original verdict, striking down Section 497 (adultery) of the IPC, was pronounced by a five-judge Bench in September 2018.  The court referred the case to the Chief Justice to pass appropriate orders to form a five-judge Bench to clarify the impact of the 2018 judgment on the armed forces. Reason given by the government for seeking exemption: There will always be a concern in the minds of the Army personnel who are operating far away from their families under challenging conditions about the family indulging in untoward activity. Personnel of the Army, Navy and the Air Force were a “distinct class”.  They were governed by special legislation, the Army Act, the Navy Act and the Air Force Act.  Adultery amounted to an unbecoming conduct and a violation of discipline under the three Acts. The three laws were protected by Article 33 of the Constitution, which allowed the government to modify the fundamental rights of the armed forces personnel. RBI Working Group constituted on digital Lending  Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Economy  In news  The RBI has constituted a working group on digital lending — including online platforms and mobile apps — to study all aspects of digital lending activities in the regulated financial sector and by unregulated players. Key takeaways  The working group consists of both internal and external members and is chaired by Jayant Kumar Dash, Executive Director, RBI.  Functions of the working group will: (1) Evaluate digital lending activities and assess the penetration and standards of outsourced digital lending activities in RBI regulated entities; (2) Identify the risks posed by unregulated digital lending to financial stability, regulated entities and consumers; (3) Suggest regulatory changes to promote orderly growth of digital lending; (4) t Fasds measures for expansion of specific regulatory or statutory perimeter and suggest the role of various regulatory and government agencies; (5) Recommend a robust fair practices code for digital lending players. EpThe group will submit its report within three months. Procurement of LCA Tejas approved  Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Defence and Security  In news  The Union Cabinet has approved procurement of 73 LCA Tejas Mk-1A fighter aircrafts and 10 LCA Tejas Mk-1 Trainer aircrafts.  Key takeaways  Light Combat Aircraft Mk-1A variant is an indigenously designed, developed and manufactured state-of-the-art modern 4+ generation fighter aircraft. This aircraft is equipped with critical operational capabilities of Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Missile, Electronic Warfare (EW) Suite and Air to Air Refuelling (AAR) would be a potent platform to meet the operational requirements of Indian Air Force, IAF. It is the first “Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured)” category procurement of combat aircrafts with an indigenous content of 50% which will progressively reach 60% by the end of the programme. The Cabinet has also approved infrastructure development by IAF under the project to enable them handle servicing at their base depot so that the turnaround time would get reduced for mission critical systems and would lead to increased availability of aircraft. Makar Sankranti being celebrated all over India Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I – Culture  In news  The Vice President of India greeted fellow citizens on the eve of the festivals of Lohri, Makar Sankranti, Pongal, Bhogali Bihu, Uttarayan and Paush Parbon. These festivals are celebrated in diverse yet similar ways, across India. Key takeaways  Makar Sankranti is a festival day in the Hindu calendar, in reference to deity Surya (sun). Makar Sankranti is observed according to solar cycles.  It is held normally on the 14th of January, or a day before or after.  In certain regions celebrations can go on for even four days and vary a lot in the rituals. It marks the – first day of sun's transit into the Makara (Capricorn), marking the end of the month with the winter solstice and the start of longer days. It is also celebrated as a harvest Festival.  Do you know?  Different names of the same festival Makar Sankranti - Odisha, Maharashtra-Goa, Andhra-Telengana, Kerala and most of the north India Paush Parbon -  Bengal Pongal - Tamil Nadu Bhogali Bihu -  Assam Lohri - Punjab and Jammu Maghi - Haryana and Himachal Khichdi Parwa -  parts of Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh SC sets up Farm Laws Committee  Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Judiciary  In news  The Supreme Court has put a stay on the implementation of the three farm laws until further orders.  It has also set up a committee of agricultural experts to facilitate talks between the Centre and farmers' unions to resolve the impasse. Key takeaways  The members include: (1) Bhupinder Singh Mann, the national president of the Bhartiya Kisan Union and All India Kisan Coordination Committee; (2) Dr Parmod Kumar Joshi, an agricultural economist who is also the Director for South Asia, International Food Policy Research Institute; (3) Ashok Gulati, agricultural economist and former chairman of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices; (4) Anil Ghanwat, the chief of Shetkari Sanghatana, who in articles written in the media have expressed views in favour of the farm laws. The Chief Justice said that the committee will not pass an order or punish and submit a report to the Supreme Court.  The SC has said the committee is the judicial process in this case. Related articles : Your views on farm laws: Click here  Failed negotiations on farm laws: Click here  Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) successfully completes 5 Years of operations Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Policies and Interventions  In news  Crop Insurance Scheme- The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yajana (PMFBY) successfully completes 5 Years of operations on 13th January 2021. Important value additions  The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) was launched in 2016.  It is an insurance service scheme for farmers for their yields.  It aims to reduce the premium burden on farmers and ensure early settlement of crop assurance claim for the full insured sum. It was formulated in line with One Nation–One Scheme theme by replacing earlier two schemes National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) and Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS). The Scheme covers all Food & Oilseeds crops and Annual Commercial/Horticultural Crops for which past yield data is available and for which requisite number of Crop Cutting Experiments (CCEs) are being conducted under General Crop Estimation Survey (GCES). Implemented by: Empanelled general insurance companies.  Administered by: Ministry of Agriculture The scheme is compulsory for loanee farmers availing Crop Loan /KCC account for notified crops and voluntary for others.  Manipur 4th Sate to undertake Urban Local Bodies Reforms  Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Urban Local Bodies  In news  Manipur has become the 4th State in the country to successfully undertake “Urban Local Bodies (ULB)” reforms The reforms were stipulated by the Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance in its letter to the States dated 17th May, 2020. Key takeaways  Manipur has now become eligible to mobilise additional financial resources of Rs.75 crore through Open Market Borrowings. It has now joined the three other States namely, Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh and Telangana, who have completed this reform. Reforms in the Urban Local Bodies and the urban utilities reforms are aimed at financial strenghtening of ULBs in the States and to enable them to provide better public health and sanitation services. Economically rejuvenated ULBs will also be able to create good civic infrastructure. Do you know?  The State will notify (a) floor rates of property tax in ULBs which are in consonance with the prevailing circle rates (i.e. guideline rates for property transactions) and (b) floor rates of user charges in respect of the provision of water-supply, drainage and sewerage which reflect current costs/ past inflation. The State will put in place a system of periodic increase in floor rates of property tax/ user charges in line with price increases.l Place in news: India expresses serious concern over the security situation in the Sahel and Lake Chad region Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – International Relations In news  India has expressed serious concern over the security situation in the Sahel and Lake Chad region in West Africa. India also condemned terrorist attacks by Boko Haram in Nigeria and Lake Chad region and by Islamic State in West Africa. Important value additions  Lake Chad is a historically large, shallow, endorheic lake in central Africa, which has varied in size over the centuries.  An endorheic basin is a drainage basin that normally retains water and allows no outflow to other external bodies of water.  The freshwater lake is located in the Sahelian zone of West-central Africa. Lake Chad is mainly in the far west of Chad, bordering on northeastern Nigeria. It is the largest lake in the Chad Basin. The Chari River, fed by its tributary the Logone, provides over 90% of the lake's water, with a small amount coming from the Yobe River in Nigeria/Niger. Despite high levels of evaporation, the lake is fresh water. Miscellaneous Khelo India Zanskar Winter Sport & Youth festival 2021 Zanskar Winter Sports & Youth Festival 2021 is being organized from 18th to 30th January 2021 by the Dept. of Sports & Youth Services under the Khelo India banner in collaboration with the Ladakh Tourism Department. Zanskar, Zahar (locally) or Zangskar is also known as Janskar or Jangskar. The Zanskar Range is a mountain range in the union territory of Ladakh that separates Zanskar from Ladakh. Geologically, the Zanskar Range is part of the Tethys Himalaya, an approximately 100-km-wide synclinorium (synclinal form that includes a series of smaller folds) formed by strongly folded and weakly metamorphosed sedimentary series. The average height of the Zanskar Range is about 6,000 m.  Its eastern part is known as Rupshu. First ever ice climbing festival  In Leh, the first ever Ice climbing festival was celebrated in Nubra valley. Nubra is a subdivision and a tehsil in the union territory of Ladakh. Its inhabited areas form a tri-armed valley cut by the Nubra and Shyok rivers. The Shyok River meets the Nubra River (or Siachan River) to form a large valley that separates the Ladakh and Karakoram Ranges.  The Shyok river is a tributary of the Indus river. Shijiazhuang  Shijiazhuang has become China's new hotspot of Coronavirus surge. It is the capital and largest city of North China's Hebei Province. It is situated east of the Taihang Mountains. The city stands at the edge of the North China Plain, which rises to the Taihang Mountains to the west of the city, and lies south of the Hutuo River. Kayakalp awards  Public and Private Health Facilities were felicitated with Kayakalp award for high standards of Sanitation and Hygiene. The government had launched a National Initiative ‘Kayakalp’ on 15th May 2015 to ensure hygiene, sanitation and cleanliness in Public Health Facilities in India (Mains Focus) AGRICULTURE / GOVERNANCE/ FEDERALISM Topic: General Studies 2: Issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation Farm laws, their constitutional validity, and hope Context: The Supreme Court of India staying the operation of new farm laws and setting up a committee of experts to negotiate with the government and the farmers. Why farmers are protesting against farm laws: Click here and here Why earlier government negotiations have failed: Click here What is the long term solution advocated by experts: Click here What has been the reaction by farmers to SC decision to set up committee? The farmers’ unions have not reacted favourably to the formation of the experts’ committee.  They allege that the committee does not comprise entirely impartial experts. Most of them are well known and strong defenders of the farm laws, and are critical of the agitation. Thus, the agitation being carried on by the farmers is entering a new phase.  Critical Analysis of SC’s decision Challenge for the Committee to gain confidence of parties: For conducting negotiations with both the government and the farmers, the members of the committee ought to and should be known to have an open mind on the core issues, which alone will create a necessary confidence in the parties concerned.  Maximalist Position by farmers:  The farmers have made it clear that they will not agree to anything less than the repeal of these laws. This would mean that the present agitation is likely to continue indefinitely. SC’s decision Lacks Clarity: It is not yet clear what impact the report of this committee will have on the final decision of the Supreme Court on the question of the constitutional validity of the farm laws. So whatever the experts’ committee recommends, the question of the constitutional validity of the farm laws can be decided only after a proper hearing of the matter before the Court.  Political Investment by ruling party: While the repeal of a law is a simple legislative act, having to repeal a law in which the government has invested a lot of its prestige is not so easy. On what basis can farm laws be further challenged in Supreme Court? Violation of Federalism The constitutional validity of the farm laws has been challenged in the Supreme Court mainly on the ground that Parliament has no legislative competence to enact these laws, the subject matter of which is essentially in the State list. Violation of rules of the House It is a universally acknowledged fact that the voting on the Farm Bills in the Rajya Sabha was not done in accordance with the rules of the House.  These rules require the Chair to order the recording of votes (division) by members even when one member demands it.  The Deputy Chairman of the House, who was conducting the proceedings at that time, did not order division although a few members openly and loudly demanded it. Thus, there was a violation of the rules of the House in passing the Bills by voice vote when there was a demand for division. Violation of Constitution with regard to procedures adopted for passage of bills Article 100 says that all questions at any sitting of either House shall be determined by a majority of votes of the members present and voting.  Majority can be determined only in terms of number, and therefore what this Article requires is that all questions in the House should be determined by recording the votes of the members present and voting. Majority cannot be determined through voice vote. In fact, the Constitution does not recognise voice vote to determine majority in a legislature.  However, deciding a question by voice vote is a practice prevailing in all legislatures. This was devised for the sake of convenience and there is always an assumption that since the government of the day has a majority, any proposal before the House has the support of the majority.  But that assumption goes when a member demands voting in the House and the Chair has, then, no option but to order the actual voting. Since this was not done and the Bills were all passed by voice vote, there is a violation of the rules as well as the Constitution (Article 100) What are the options before the Supreme Court if and when above challenges are made?  Strike down laws on violation of Article 100 & 107 The Court can strike down the whole laws as the requirement of Article 107 has not been fulfilled. This Article says that a Bill shall not be deemed to have been passed unless it has been agreed to by both Houses.  As has been explained above, the Bills have not in fact been passed by the Rajya Sabha because the majority had not been determined in accordance with Article 100.  Invalidate the proceedings of Rajya Sabha The Court may also invalidate the proceedings of the Rajya Sabha and send the three ‘Acts’ back to that House for further proceedings in accordance with the constitutional provisions. If this happens, it may provide a good opportunity to the government to revisit these laws.  These can then be referred to a Select Committee of the Rajya Sabha which can invite the farmers and all other stakeholders and finally produce better Bills.  Conclusion The issue that needs to be settled by the top court is the constitutional validity of the laws and adherence to the Procedures established by law & Constitution. GOVERNANCE/ SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY Topic: General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STIP 2020) Context: In a difficult year, government has managed to complete an expert-driven, bottom-up, evidence-based and inclusive draft of the fifth National Science, Technology and Innovation Policy (STIP 2020) Need of National Policy: STIP 2020 is the collective aspiration to ensure that we get the benefits of our national investments in science and technology. It is a comprehensive policy framework the guides & promotes investment in Science & Technology. The Science, Technology and Innovation Policy will be guided by the following broad vision;  Atmanirbhar Bharat: To achieve technological self-reliance and position India among the top three scientific superpowers in the decade to come.  Human Capital: To attract, nurture, strengthen and retain critical human capital through a ‘people centric’ science, technology and innovation (STI) ecosystem.  Investment: To double the number of Full-Time Equivalent (FTE) researchers, Gross Domestic Expenditure on R&D (GERD) and private sector contribution to the GERD every 5 years.  Globally Competitive: To build individual and institutional excellence in STI with the aspiration to achieve the highest level of global recognitions and awards in the coming decade.  Key features of draft STIP are: Objective:  STIP 2020 by way of its decentralized, bottom-up, and inclusive design process aims to restrategize priorities, sectoral focus, and methods of research and technology development for larger socio-economic welfare. STI Observatory and Centralised Database STIP will lead to the establishment of a National STI Observatory that will act as a central repository for all kinds of data related to and generated from the STI ecosystem.  It will encompass an open centralised database platform for all financial schemes, programmes, grants and incentives existing in the ecosystem.  The Observatory will be centrally coordinated and organized in distributed, networked and interoperable manner among relevant stakeholders.  Open Science Framework A future-looking, all-encompassing Open Science Framework will be built to provide access to scientific data, information, knowledge, and resources to everyone in the country and all who are engaging with the Indian STI ecosystem on an equal partnership basis.  All data used in and generated from publicly-funded research will be available to everyone under FAIR (findable, accessible, interoperable and reusable) terms.  A dedicated portal to provide access to the outputs of such publicly-funded research will be created through Indian Science and Technology Archive of Research (INDSTA).  STU Education to be made more inclusive Online learning platforms will be developed using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) to address the issue of accessibility and to promote research and innovation at all levels.  Teaching-learning centres (TLCs) will be established to upskill faculty members which in turn will improve the quality of education.  Engaged Universities will be created to promote interdisciplinary research to address community needs.  Higher Education Research Centres (HERC) and Collaborative Research Centres (CRC) will be established to provide research inputs to policymakers and bring together stakeholders. Increasing Investments With an aim to expand the financial landscape of the STI ecosystem, each department/ ministry in the central, the state and the local governments, PSUs, private sector companies and startups will set up an STI unit with a minimum earmarked budget to pursue STI activities.  Each State will earmark a percentage of the state allocation for STI-related activities under a separate budget head.  STI investments will be increased through boosting fiscal incentives, enhancing support to industry, especially Medium Small Micro Enterprises (MSMEs), for pursuing research through innovation support schemes and other relevant means on a need basis.  To ensure systematic governance of the expanded STI financing landscape, an STI Development Bank will be set up to facilitate a corpus fund for investing in direct long term investments in select strategic areas  Translational Research and Promotion of Innovation The policy aims to create a fit for purpose, accountable research ecosystem promoting translational as well as foundational research in India in alignment with global standards.  An institutional architecture to integrate Traditional Knowledge Systems (TKS) and grassroots innovation into the overall education, research and innovation system will be established.  Grassroots innovators will also be supported for registration, claiming the Intellectual Property Right (IPR), filing of patent, or any type of legal claim with the help of Higher Education Institute (HEIs).  Technology self-reliance and indigenization  A two-way approach of indigenous development of technology as well as technology indigenization will be adopted and focused upon in alignment with national priorities, like sustainability and social benefit, and resources  A Technology Support Framework will be created to facilitate this development. A Strategic Technology Board (STB) will be constituted to act as a link connecting different strategic departments.  Inclusivity an integral part of STIP An India-centric Equity & Inclusion (E&I) charter will be developed for tackling all forms of discrimination, exclusions and inequalities in STI leading to the development of an institutional mechanism.  An inclusive culture will be facilitated through equal opportunity for women along with candidates from rural- remote areas, marginalised communities, LGBTQ+ Communities and differently-abled individuals including Divyangjans. International Engagement Engagement with the Diaspora will be intensified through attracting the best talent back home through fellowships, internships schemes and research opportunities expanded and widely promoted across different ministries.  Appropriate facilitating channels will be created for remote contribution as well.  An engagement portal exclusively for the Indian scientific diaspora will be created. ‘S&T for Diplomacy’ will be complemented with Diplomacy for S&T ’.  STI Policy Institute To serve all the aspects of STI policy governance and to provide the knowledge support to institutionalised governance mechanisms , a STI Policy Institute will be established to build and maintain a robust interoperable STI metadata architecture.  It will conduct and promote nationally and internationally relevant STI policy research and strengthen the science advice mechanism at national, sub-national and international levels. It will develop long term capacity building programs for STI policy through training and fellowships.  An implementation strategy and roadmap will be devised for STI policy and programs along with continuous monitoring and timely evaluation mechanisms.  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 Bihu is a harvest festival of which of the following state of India?  Odisha Tamil Nadu Assam Punjab  Q.2 Lake Chad is a fresh water lake of which of the following region?  West Africa North America  Himalayan region South Africa  ANSWERS FOR 13th January 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 B 2 A 3 D 4 A Must Read About US Policy reversal on Cuba: The Hindu On Building trust in vaccines: The Hindu About challenges in vaccination drive: Indian Express 

Jan 14, 2021 Yojana

IAS UPSC YOJANA & KURUKSHETRA Magazine ‘NOVEMBER’ 2020

Archives Hello Friends, Here we are with the NOVEMBER 2020, edition of Yojana and Kurukshetra. Yojana/Kurukshetra: NOVEMBER 2020 – Download  

Jan 14, 2021 Important Articles

UPSC MAINS PAPER 2020 (GS 4): ANALYSIS, APPROACH and REFERENCES - How IASbaba was Helpful

Dear Aspirants What do you think real happiness is? For us, it is the sense of achievement which one receives after putting in efforts to get something and then reaping the desired results. Today we would like to share our happiness with you. For the past 6 years, we have been doing one thing with great passion and dedication. Yes! We love to guide the Civil Service aspirants. We have channelised all our energies and dedicated all our efforts into creating an ecosystem that gives every aspirant a chance to crack the prestigious civil services examination with Rank-1, even if he/she is in the remotest corner of the country. In this process, we have developed, designed, and dedicated a series of initiatives for Civil Services Exam preparation. The quality of these initiatives has been proven time and again. It has become a norm to have high Hit Ratios in Prelims and Mains from the initiatives of IASbaba, namely Integrated Learning Programme (ILP) and Think Learn and Perform (TLP). For the last 6 years, we have managed to hit the bull’s eye when it comes to GS Mains papers. This article is not to boast about the Hit Ratio of our initiatives in any case. It would not be right to say that these many questions, directly or indirectly came from our initiatives just by using keywords of the UPSC questions. In that way, if we frame questions over the year on all keywords in the UPSC syllabus our hit ratio will be 100%. However, you are smart enough to analyse the importance of our initiatives and its very close resemblance to actual UPSC papers. Rather than focusing on the numbers try to focus on the significance of these initiatives and make them a part of your preparation. Hard work should be done smartly to have a better Input-Output ratio of efforts and results. Below we have come up with the Analysis and Approach for each question of General Studies (GS) Paper 4 that was asked by UPSC along with the links and references of IASbaba questions/ articles. After going through this article, you will realise that just by sincerely following the initiatives on our platform, your chances of success in the Mains stage would have increased dramatically. [QUESTION PAPER] GENERAL STUDIES PAPER 4 (GS4) – UPSC CIVIL SERVICES (CSE) MAINS EXAMINATION 2020 - CLICK HERE NOTE: PDF of Analysis is provided at the end of the post. [VIDEO] GS1 GS2, GS3, GS4 & ESSAY ANALYSIS - UPSC MAINS 2020 by IASbaba -> CLICK HERE   OVERVIEW of GENERAL STUDIES (GS) PAPER 4:  The pattern of the paper remains the same as previous year. Section-A is for 130 marks and Section-B consisting six case studies is for 120 marks. Regarding Section-A The marking pattern in Section-A remains the same. Question number 6 has three sub questions which are quotes given by moral philosophers/thinkers which is on similar lines of the previous year question paper. Many of the questions in this section demands only a basic understanding of the terms mentioned in the syllabus. However, many questions have two parts, with the second part generally demanding the application of the understanding. Regarding Section-B The case studies were lengthy compared to the previous year. Only in one case study the examiner is asking about the options available. Most of the case studies demand for mentioning ethical issues and suggesting some measures with respect to the major issue in that particular case. This requires a strong hold on the Syllabus. For example, if we see the last case study (Q.12), the case mentioned above will not help much in answering the questions given below. In order to answer these questions, we need to know the institutional measures regarding the issues mentioned. Similarly, Q.10 is asking about the consequences of politicization of bureaucracy. This cannot be answered just by reading the case study. It requires prior knowledge on the same. Even in Q.8 the second part of the question needs to be answered with prior knowledge. Like measures to be taken to ensure that honest civil servants are not implicated for bonafide mistakes on their part. To sum up, we can say that UPSC is checking your theoretical knowledge and solution-oriented bureaucratic thinking by explaining the context of the question in the case studies. Q.1.(a) Discuss the role of ethics and values in enhancing the following three major components of Comprehensive National Power (CNP)viz. human capital, soft power (culture and policies) and social harmony. (150 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: This is a direct question where a candidate needs to write about how ethics and values can enhance a nation’s Comprehensive National power. This is related to the concept of International ethics from the syllabus. The focus should be based on three key terms mentioned which are 1)Human capital,2) Soft power(culture and policies) and 3) Social harmony. The Concept of Comprehensive National Power is a term used in International relations that was particularly popularised by China. Here the focus is on the essence of the quote “Peace is not merely an absence of war. It is also a state of mind.” - Jawaharlal Nehru. Thus in international relations, a country is not only recognized by its military might but also other essential attributes of the national power, which includes : Human capital - which means the skills, knowledge, and experience possessed by an individual or population, viewed in terms of their value or cost to an organization or country. Ethical values linked to this are scientific temper, achievement-oriented society, competitive spirit, and essential focus on humans through gender equality, lack of discrimination in health and education. Soft power - This term was Coined by Joseph Nye in the late 1980s, the term "soft power" means the ability of a country to persuade others to do what it wants without force or coercion. This will include how the culture and policies which are adopted by a country work towards enhancing it. Ethical values linked to this are emphasis on cooperation, growth of culture, focus on ideas like Panchasheel rather than real politicking in international affairs. Social harmony - This a necessary attribute for a nation as a nation mired by lack of social harmony lacks effective international say. For example, countries like Pakistan and Sudan have less power to influence other nations as compared to countries like Japan, India, and USA. Ethical values linked to are Empathy, compassion, tolerance. In short contextualize these terms to India and the world for value addition. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://tlp.iasbaba.com/2019/11/day-39-q-2-what-do-you-understand-by-the-concept-of-tolerance-in-the-context-of-a-secular-democratic-country-like-india-why-is-it-an-important-virtue-to-have-as-a-nation-examine/ https://iasbaba.com/2017/12/synopsis-iasbabas-tlp-2018-upsc-mains-general-studies-questions-8th-december-2017-day-15/  Q.1.(b) “Education is not an injunction, it is an effective and pervasive tool for all round development of an individual and social transformation”. Examine the New Education Policy,2020(NEP,2020)in light of the above statement.(150 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: This question needs one to have a hold over the concept from GS paper 2 which is the topic of education. The basic demand of the question is to explain how the role of education is not injunction (education through authorities orders) but rather it needs to focus on a person’s all-round development which will lead to individual and social transformation simultaneously. The candidate needs to analyze this statement in light of the important attributes of the New Education Policy (2020). Here the candidate first can explain the basic meaning of injunction and the need for better learning for enabling a student to achieve his/her own potential rather than forceful or coercive teaching. Then Link the attributes of New Education Policy (2020) to individual and social transformation. Transformation in the examination system by focusing on learning outcomes rather than rote learning and objective-based questions. Education in mother tongue will enable better understanding and exploration of ideas by students from all sections of society Inclusive education with concepts like three-language formula, support for weaker sections, and use of digital technology to reach the untouched areas. Multidisciplinary in nature by allowing flexibility in choosing subjects and setting up a multidisciplinary college in every district. Focus on imparting critical thinking. Thus, link all these features to how it can transform the individual and society of India in near future. While doing so add values an ethical term in arguments. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://tlp.iasbaba.com/2019/07/day-19-q-1-what-changes-can-be-introduced-in-the-curricula-of-schools-and-colleges-to-inculcate-values-in-students-suggest/ https://iasbaba.com/2020/12/synopsis-1st-december2020-day-44-iasbabas-tlp-phase-2-upsc-mains-answer-writing-general-studies/ Q.2. (a) ‘ Hatred is destructive of a person‘s wisdom and conscience that can poison a nation’s spirit. Do you agree with this view? Justify your answer. (150 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: This is a very direct question and there is nothing here to disagree with the statement given as hatred is a strong negative emotion that can be destructive of both Individual wisdom and a nation's spirit. Here first one needs to describe how hatred is a negative emotion that is irrational, subjective, and far beyond a normal dislike of a thing or subject. Further explain with examples of how this is a threat to a person's wisdom and conscience, here you can use examples such as infamous figures like Hitler and Mussolini where both had a strong hatred towards certain communities and institutions. Further, you can write that, when this hatred becomes all-pervasive in a society it can destroy a nation's spirit and could further hurt social capital and cooperation among citizens. This can be explained as to how the hatred of Hitler for Jews led to the corruption of the majority of German citizens which had devastating effects on the German nation and its conscience. This statement needs to be contextualized to present the Indian context and how the hatred on social media, on roads, and mob behavior on incidents such as lynching is ethically wrong and in long run can affect both the Individual and nation. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://tlp.iasbaba.com/2019/07/day-25-q-2-communal-intolerance-is-the-enemy-of-progress-and-growth-do-you-agree-substantiate/ Think Learn Perform (TLP) Plus Test-6 Synopsis Question 1.(b)(2020) Q.2. (b) What are the main components of emotional intelligence (EI)? Can they be learned? discuss. (150 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: This is a basic question that is based directly on the point mentioned in the syllabus that is Emotional intelligence. The candidate needs to explain here what are the different components of Emotional Intelligence and can these components be learned. Here the candidate can start by definition of Emotional intelligence given by David Goleman that Emotional intelligence is a person's ability to manage his feelings so that those feelings are expressed appropriately and effectively. According to Goleman, emotional intelligence is the largest single predictor of success in the workplace. Components of Emotional intelligence: Self-awareness - A person has a healthy sense of emotional intelligence self-awareness if they understand their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as how their actions affect others. A person with emotional self-awareness is usually receptive to, and able to learn from, constructive criticism more than one who doesn't have emotional self-awareness. Self-regulation - A person with high emotional intelligence has the ability to exercise restraint and control when expressing their emotions. Motivation -People with high emotional intelligence are self-motivated, resilient, and driven by an inner ambition rather than being influenced by outside forces, such as money or prestige. Empathy- An empathetic person has compassion and is able to connect with other people on an emotional level, helping them respond genuinely to other people's concerns. Social skill - People who are emotionally intelligent are able to build trust with other people, and are able to quickly gain respect from the people they meet. After explaining the components of E.I., you can take any of the three stands related to the second demand of the question. Emotional intelligence can be learned and write how it can be learned like there are training and courses for a child in school and officers in the academy. Emotional intelligence cannot be learned as it is a predisposition in the attitude of a person to act in a certain manner and it is not possible to inculcate these components. A balanced view after taking both in consideration for a middle path. Add examples on some officers of how they need and have used Emotional intelligence in past and current context for value addition. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://tlp.iasbaba.com/2019/08/day-39-q-5-can-emotional-intelligence-be-imparted-through-training-examine/ https://iasbaba.com/2020/12/synopsis-27th-november2020-day-41-iasbabas-tlp-phase-2-upsc-mains-answer-writing-general-studies/ Q.3. (a) What teachings of Buddha are most relevant today and why? Discuss.(150 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: This question is based on the moral philosophers. Here the candidate needs to know what are the basic teachings of Buddha which are most relevant today. This further needs to be answered as to why these teachings are relevant today with help of relevant examples. Gautam Buddha was a moral thinker who lived in the 6th century B.C in ancient India. He after attaining enlightenment at Bodhgaya propounded his vision. This includes the concepts or teachings which are relevant even today That are : Equality - In today’s world where there discrimination based on class, caste, and creed this value remains essential for Humanity even today. Detachment - According to Buddha attachment which leads to desire is the basic reason for suffer therefore a person should not be attached to things that are purely material and ephemeral in nature. This can help in the current context to fight climate change which is a direct outcome of a materialistic and consumeristic society. Also, it can help in controlling suicides by youngsters due to failure in relationships. Rationality - This value imbibes scientific temper and in the current context can overcome hate and bigotry in general and communalism in particular. Also, it can lead to the growth of the nation. Middle path (Madhyam Marg) - This concept can help individuals, communities, or nations to a valid extreme end of arguments and accommodate diverse views for a better society. A candidate can refer to some specific issues of India for value addition such as communalism, lack of scientific temper, violence on migrants (Son of soil theory), climate issues. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://iasbaba.com/2020/08/buddhist-philosophy-on-dharmachakra-day-all-india-radio-air-ias-upsc/ https://tlp.iasbaba.com/2018/12/day-24-q-1-do-you-find-any-philosophical-similarity-among-various-religions-of-india-discuss/  Q.3. (b) ‘The will to power exits, but it can be tamed and be guided by rationality and principles of moral duty.’ Examine this statement in the context of international relations. (150 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: This question is again related to ethics in international relations. Here the candidate needs to write how each and every nation wants to exercise power but this exercise of power to be ethical should be guided by rationality and principles of moral duty. Here one needs to write, how power is not exercised in isolation but rather it also has a moral duty attached to it. Therefore the exercise of power should be : Rational - It cannot be whimsical or arbitrary in use rather power needs to be exercised based on sound cognition and empirical evidence. For example, in international relations, there are conventions, treaties, and customary rules which guide the actions of a nation and these principles are based on rationality. Thus a nation does not just explode a nuclear bomb based on irrationality or subjective disposition but rather is guided by the overall rationality of the action. Moral duty - The exercise of power needs to attain the basic ethical principles of equality, integrity, empathy, and compassion. For example, there are conventions like the Geneva Convention for avoiding bombing of cities during war or, a nation cannot exit a treaty whenever it wants. Like when the USA exited the Paris climate treaty it came into force a year later to make it accountable and answerable to people. IASBABA REFERENCE: Think Learn Perform (TLP) Plus Test-6 Synopsis, Question no. 8 Q.4.(a) Distinguish between laws and rules. Discuss the role of ethics in formulating them. (150 words). LINE OF THOUGHT/ REFERENCE: Here, one needs to define what rules and laws are. Also, differences need to be written in a manner like laws are codified with the power of enforcement. Important demand here is how ethics help them. So, ethics provides it the fixed framework of wrong and right to rules and laws. Q.4.(b) A positive attitude is considered to be an essential characteristic of a civil servant who is often required to function under extreme stress. What contributes a positive attitude in person.? (150 words). LINE OF THOUGHT / APPROACH: Here one needs to write how a positive attitude is helpful for a civil servant. Because civil servant has to work under pressure/ stress. They are accountable to people, political executives/ seniors, etc. Family and work balance has to be taken care of, and likewise.  The next part is what contributes positive attitude - meditation, good value system motivation, etc. The conclusion can be how to inculcate it. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://tlp.iasbaba.com/2019/07/day-20-q-2-a-positive-attitude-causes-a-chain-reaction-of-positive-thoughts-events-and-outcomes-it-is-a-catalyst-and-it-sparks-extraordinary-results-elucidate/  Q.5.(a) What are the main factors responsible for gender responsibility in India? Discuss the contribution of Savitribai Phule in this regard. (150 words). LINE OF THOUGHT / APPROACH: Here you need to apply basic knowledge about factors responsible for gender inequality. Factors mainly related to ethics are stereotypes, prejudices, attitudes. Values system of patriarchy, male dominance. Further to it education, family teaching, etc. And in addressing it how Savitribai Phule worked. She led by example. The courage of conviction she had shown. Q.5.(b) The current internet expansion has instilled a different set of cultural values which are in conflict with traditional values. Discuss. (150 words). LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: It is an application-based question. Internet penetration and therefore social media brings values like individualism, materialism, consumerism, the attitude of consumerism, quietly narcissism. They are in opposition to collectivism, the cosmopolitan culture of Indian traditional values. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://iasbaba.com/2020/11/day-23-q-3-in-the-age-of-social-media-influencers-ethics-and-morality-have-taken-a-backseat-do-you-agree-critically-examine/ Q.6.  What do each of the following quotations mean to you? Q.6.(a) "Condemn none: if you can stretch out a helping hand do so. If not fold your hands, bless your brothers and let them go their own way." - Swami Vivekanand (150 words). LINE OF APPROACH/THOUGHT: This quotation-based question is about not opposing, disturbing anyone if we can't uplift / help them. Examples are must here. Let's consider women empowerment, LGBTQ rights movement, helping differently abled persons etc. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://tlp.iasbaba.com/2018/11/day-10-q-1-what-lessons-have-you-learnt-from-the-life-and-ideas-of-swami-vivekanand-how-do-you-apply-them-in-your-daily-life/  Q.6.(b) "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in service of others." Mahatma Gandhi (150 words). LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: The famous quotation of Gandhiji which is much relevant in civil servants’ life. The Second Administrative Reforms Commission also emphasizes the value of dedication to duty. It looks for selflessness, devotion to duty. Here examples are must for illustration - IAS in Tripura built road with public cooperation., K.Balaji IAS working for manual scavengers are good examples among others. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://iasbaba.com/2020/11/synopsis-20th-november2020-day-35-iasbabas-tlp-phase-2-upsc-mains-answer-writing-general-studies/ Q.6.(c) "A system of morality which is based on relative emotional values is mere illusion, a thoroughly vulgar conception which has nothing sound in it and nothing true." - Socrates. (150 words). LINE OF THOUGHT/ APPROACH: A very good question which demands interlinking of concepts like emotional intelligence and morality. It's says morality full of emotions would not always be helpful. Morality should be rational, logical. Example from administration, leaders, social reformers life are must to illustrate. IASBABA REFERENCE: Question 2.A and 2.B can be linked to the quotation in question: https://iasbaba.com/2020/10/synopsis-gs-paper-4-full-mock8th-october2020-iasbabas-tlp-phase-2-upsc-mains-answer-writing/                                                                Section B Q.7) Rajesh Kumar is a senior public servant, with a reputation of honesty and forthrightness, currently posted in the Finance Ministry as the Head of the Budget Division. His department is presently busy in organizing budgetary support to the states, four of which are due to polls within the financial year. This year’s annual budget had allotted Rs 8300 crores for the National Housing Scheme (NHS), a centrally sponsored social housing scheme for the weaker sections of society. Rs 775 crores have been drawn for the NHS till June. The Ministry of Commerce had long been pursuing a case for setting up a Special Economic Zone (SEZ) in a southern state to boost exports. After two years of detailed discussion between the centre and state, the Union Cabinet approved the project in August. Process was initiated to acquire the necessary land. Eighteen months ago a leading Public Sector Unit (PSU) had projected the need for setting up a large natural gas processing plant in a northern state for the regional gas grid. The land is already in possession of the PSU. The gas grid is an essential component of the national energy security strategy. After three rounds of global bidding the project was allotted to an MNC, M/sXYZ Hydrocarbons. The first tranche of payment to the MNC is scheduled to be made in December. Finance Ministry was asked for a timely allocation of an additional Rs 6000 crores for these two developmental projects. It was decided to recommend re-appropriation of this entire amount from NHS allocation. The file was forwarded to the Budget Department for their comments and further processing. On studying the case file, Rajesh Kumar realized that this re-appropriation may cause inordinate delay in the execution of NHS, a project much publicized in the rallies of senior politicians. Correspondingly, non-availability of finances would cause financial loss in the SEZ and national embarrassment due to delayed payment in the international project. Rajesh Kumar discussed the matter with seniors. He was conveyed that this politically sensitive situation needs to be processed immediately. Rajesh Kumar realized that diversion of funds from the NHS could raise difficult questions for the government in the Parliament. Discuss the following with reference to this case: a) Ethical issues involved in re-appropriation of funds from a welfare project to the development projects. b) Given the need for proper utilization of public funds, discuss the options available to Rajesh Kumar. Is resigning a worthy option? (250 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: We can introduce the case study with the stakeholders and the ethical issues involved; Here the ethical issues bog down to - priority between housing to the poor and economic development of the nation; socialism versus capitalism; In the philosophical part we can include “rising tide lifts all boats” John F Kennedy, “Trickledown effect”, etc. In the action part we can - strike a balance like: Using CSR of the companies for the housing project. Can allocate a part of profit the SEZ makes to building the houses. Extra budgetary support can be solicited For the Solution part - A deeper analysis of the question can lead to some practical solutions like - a contract for the SEZ is already made and for the NHS land acquisition is just initiated. As the land acquisition takes time, the officer can allocate the fund for the SEZ. The funds for NHS can be catered later. In the resignation part - it is a clear ‘no’ because “winners won’t quit and quitters won’t win” IASBABA REFERENCE: Case regarding Resignation: IASbaba TLP PLUS Test 19 You are heading the operations division in a big pharmaceutical company. Your boss regards you for your hard work and dedication and there are high chances of you getting promoted in a couple of months. You have an outstanding team of employees who are equally passionate for their work. But, the standout start the performer in your team is Rashmi. She has been serving the company for the past three years and her outstanding contribution has ensured great rise to the organization. You know that without Rashmi, your team won’t have performed so well. However, one day, a teary-eyed Rashmi comes to you and gives her resignation letter. You are surprised by her sudden decision to quit the organization. Upon probing, she tells you that your boss had made unwelcome sexual advances towards her last week. What are the options available with you in this situation? If Rashmi leaves the company, your team will underperform and your chances of promotion will become bleak. If she stays, your boss will take it as an acceptance of his behavior. What will you do? Discuss. (250 words) (20) Political and Social Pressure: IASbaba TLP PLUS Test 6 You are serving as the secretary in the Information and Broadcasting Ministry of the Government. Your office has been receiving many complaints against the online streaming platforms for showing abusive, violent and sexual content. The parents are concerned that the shows being streamed are having a bad influence on the impressionable minds of their children. While there are safeguards available in the form of parental control of the content that kids can watch, they aren’t effective. Kids do find a way to watch the content of their liking by using proxies or even stealing the login credentials. Pressure is mounting on you to regulate the content and put a ban on shows streaming adult content. However, the proponents of the rights of the entertainment industry are quite vociferous about the creative freedom of directors/ producers of online shows. They are in complete opposition to any regulation of the content being streamed. They give examples of many western countries where censorship of content is hardly done. As a senior servant and policymaker, what decision would you take and why? Substantiate your views. (250 words) (20) Q.8) The Chairman of Bharat Missiles Ltd (BML) was watching a program on TV wherein the Prime Minister was addressing the nation on the necessity of developing a self-reliant India. He subconsciously nodded in agreement and smiled to himself as he mentally reviewed BML’s journey in the past two decades. BML had admirably progressed from producing first generation anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) to designing and producing state of the art ATGM weapon systems that would be the envy of any army. He sighed in reconciliation with his assumptions that the government would probably not alter the status quo of a ban on export of military weaponry. To his surprise, the very next day he got a telephone call from the Director General, Ministry of Defence, asking him to discuss the modalities of increasing BML production of ATGMs as there is a probability of exporting the same to a friendly country. The Director General wanted the Chairman to discuss the details with his staff in Delhi next week. Two days later, at a press conference, the Defence Minister stated that he aims to double the current weapons export levels within five years. This would give an impetus to financing the development and manufacturing of indigenous weapons in the country. He also stated that all indigenous arms manufacturing nations have a very good record of international arms trade. As the Chairman of BML, what are your views on the following points? a) As an arms exporter of a responsible nation like India, what are the ethical issues involved in the arms trade? b) List five ethical factors that would influence the decision to sell arms to foreign governments. (250 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: We can introduce the case with stakeholders and the ethical issues involved; the ethical issues here include; violence versus peace, debate between armament and disarmament, and the economic and strategic power of the nation versus Indian philosophy of Ahimsa. Here we can also include Bharatha and Bahubali, Ahoka’s Dhamma Yuddha, Gandhiji’s Truth and Ahimsa - 5th dimension of warfare, etc. In the 2nd sub question we can include deterrence, world’s armament race, unequal treatment between veto and non-vote regarding the nuclear armament in the UN, etc. Solution part- we can mention that we sell the armaments as per international convention, adherence to no first use policies, condition of not using it on its own public, and condition of using it as a last resort. However it is better to conclude, by arguing in favour of world peace and tranquility - “Peace cannot be kept by force, it can only be achieved by understanding” Albert Einstein. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://iasbaba.com/2020/04/indian-defence-trade-still-no-bullseye-in-volume-and-value/ https://iasbaba.com/2020/11/indias-nuclear-doctrine-the-big-picture-rstv-ias-upsc/ Q.9) Rampura, a remote district inhabited by a tribal population, is marked by extreme backwardness and abject poverty. Agriculture is the mainstay of the local population, though it is subsistence due to the very small landholdings. There is insignificant industrial or mining activity. Even the targeted welfare programs have inadequately benefited the tribal population. In this restrictive scenario, the youth has begun to migrate to other states to supplement the family income. Plight of minor girls is that their parents are persuaded by labour contractors to send them to work in the Bt Cotton farms of a nearby state. The soft fingers of the minor girls are well suited for plucking the cotton. The inadequate living and working conditions in these farms have caused serious health issues for the minor girls. NGOs in the districts of domicile and the cotton farms appear to be compromised and have not effectively espoused the twin issues of child labour and development of the area. You are appointed as the District Collector of Rampura. Identify the ethical issues involved. Which specific steps will you initiate to ameliorate the conditions of minor girls of your district and to improve the overall economic scenario in the district (250 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: Introducing the question with the stakeholders involved; we can bring in various ethical issues here like - empathy, concerns towards undeveloped masses, gender bias, ethicality of NGOs, stone hearted cotton farm managers, etc. Socio-ethical issues like - migration, agriculture the only means of livelihood, landless labor, unreached welfare programs, poor working conditions, ill health, etc. We can bring in examples of immigration of  people from Bihar to Maharashtra. Also examples of child laborers working in brick kilns of Odisha. Saying an outright no to child labor; We can bring in steps like Gender bias -a suspicion that why only minor girls are required, why not minor boys who also have soft hands - Ex: Anything like Bihar shelter house scandal being suspected. Action on NGOs under FCRA act. Corporate social responsibility of Cotton firms. Wielding Prevention of Child labor act - pressurizing the Cotton farms to employee adult workers. Better implementation of schemes like - Sarva Shiksha ABhiyan, Kasturba Balika Vidyalay, Poshan Abhiyan, MGNREGA, One ration One ration card for the migrants etc. IASBABA REFERENCE: https://iasbaba.com/2020/08/ilo-conventions-on-child-labour/ https://tlp.iasbaba.com/2019/12/day-50-q-3-what-are-the-initiatives-meant-for-addressing-the-vulnerabilities-of-rural-landless-labourers-examine-their-efficacy-and-limitations/ Case related to Gender Bias:  IASbaba TLP PLUS Test 6 You are posted as the block development officer in a district. Menstruation is a taboo in one of the villages of the district and people hardly talk about it. In fact, menstruating women aren’t even allowed to enter temples and are forced to sleep on the floor. Women use clothes as they can’t afford sanitary napkins or are too shy to buy it from the general store. When a renowned NGO attempted to spread awareness towards hygiene during menstruation by talking to the local women, the villagers created a ruckus and forced the representatives of the NGO to leave. Further attempts by the NGO to approach the women was thwarted by the Gram Panchayat. The women of the village have been warned by their family members to stay away from such discussions and maintain their dignity. The NGO brings the issue to your notice and asks for your support. Now answer the following questions: What in your opinion is the main reason behind villagers protesting? What steps would you take to address the issue? (250 words) (20) Q.10) You are a municipal commissioner of a large city, having the reputation of a very honest and upright officer. A huge multipurpose mall is under construction in your city in which a large number of daily wage earners are employed. One night, during monsoons, a big chunk of the roof collapsed causing instant death of four labourers including two minors. Many more were seriously injured requiring immediate medical attention. The mishap resulted in a big hue and cry, forcing the government to institute an enquiry. Your preliminary enquiry has revealed a series of anomalies. The material used for the construction was of poor quality. Despite the approved building plans permitting only one basement, an additional basement has been constructed. This was overlooked during the periodic inspections by the building inspector of the municipal corporation. In your enquiry, you noticed that the construction of the mall was given the green signal despite encroaching on areas earmarked for a green belt and a slip road in the Zonal Master Plan of the city. The permission to construct the mall was accorded by the previous Municipal Commissioner who is not only your senior and well known to you professionally, but also a good friend. Prima facie, the case appears to be of a widespread nexus between officials of the Municipal Corporation and the builders. Your colleagues are putting pressure on you to go slow in the enquiry. The builder, who is rich and influential, happens to be a close relative of a powerful minister in the state cabinet. The builder is persuading you to hush up the matter, promising you a fortune to do so. He also hinted that if this matter is not resolved at the earliest in his favour there is somebody in his office who is waiting to file a case against you under the POSH act. Discuss the ethical issues involved in the case. What are the options available to you in this situation? Explain your selected course of action. (250 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: Ethical Issues involved are: Corruption Public Trust on authority Institutional Morality Courage and Fortitude Probity and Incorruptibility The builder is both persuading with fortune and threatening with the POSH Act. Accepting the fortunes offered by builder is ethically wrong and practically dangerous (sooner or later your wrong actions will be caught) About threatening with POSH Act-- Maybe it is an empty threat. Also since I already have a reputation of being an honest and upright officer, nobody in the office would believe such fake cases. Even if the case is filed, I would not worry about such accusations and will fight it in Court of Law My selected course of actions Inform the higher-ups about the situation as it allegedly involves political leaders Give the previous Municipal Commissioner who is a good friend a benefit of the doubt and talk to him. If he has committed the mistake deliberately, then he will seize to be a friend and appropriate action will be taken. Complete the inquiry Let higher authorities take the decision in consultation with me. Q.11) Parmal is a small but underdeveloped district. It has a rocky terrain that is not suitable for agriculture, though some subsistence agriculture is being done on small plots of land. The area receives adequate rainfall and has an irrigation canal flowing through it. Amria, its administrative centre, is a medium sized town. It houses a large district hospital, an Industrial Training Institute and some privately owned skill training centres. It has all the facilities of a district headquarters. A trunk railway line passes approximately 50 kilometers from Amria. Its poor connectivity is a major reason for the absence of any major industry therein. The state government offers a 10 year tax holiday as an incentive to new industry. In 2010 Anil, an industrialist, decided to take benefits to set up Amria Plastic Works (APW) in Noora village, about 20km from Amria. While the factory was being built, Anil hired the required key labour and got them trained at the skill training centres at Amria. This act of his made the key personnel very loyal to APW. APW started production in 2011 with the labour drawn fully from Noora village. The villagers were very happy to get employment near their homes and were motivated by the key personnel to meet the production targets with high quality. APW started making large profits, a sizeable portion of which was used to improve the quality of life in Noora. By 2016, Noora could boast of a greener village and a renovated village temple. Anil liaised with the local MLA to increase the frequency of the bus services to Amria. The government also opened a primary health care centre and primary school at Noora in buildings constructed by APW. APW used its CSR funds to set up women’s self-help groups, subsidize primary education to the village children and procure an ambulance for use by its employees and the needy. In 2019, there was a minor fire in APW. It was quickly extinguished as fire safety protocols were in place in the factory. Investigations revealed that the factory had been using electricity in excess of its authorized capacity. This was soon rectified. The next year, due to nationwide lockdown, the requirement of production fell for four months. Anil decided that all employees would be paid regularly. He employed them to plant trees and improve the village habitat. APW had developed a reputation of high quality production and a motivated workforce. Critically analyse the story of APW and state the ethical issues involved. Do you consider APW as a role model for development of backward areas? Give reasons. (250 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: Ethical issues Corporate Governance/ Corporate social responsibility Sustainable Development: Environmental Concerns is taken care of company Local Culture is taken care of by company (Temple construction) Compassion for the Locals: Coordinating with Local authorities to set up Healthcare and Education (which is not his work) Accident is not an ethical issue as fire protocols were in place and was immediately rectified Emotional Intelligence as even during tough times (lockdown), employees were taken care of. Yes, APW can be considered as a role model for the development of backward areas. There is nothing wrong both ethically and legally with Industry-led welfare and growth. Q.12) Migrant workers have always remained at the socio-economic margins of our society, silently serving as the instrumental labour force of urban economics. The pandemic has brought them into national focus. On announcement of a countrywide lockdown, a very large number of migrant workers decided to move back from their places of employment to their native villages. The non-availability of transport created its own problems. Added to this was the fear of starvation and inconvenience to their families. This caused, the migrant workers to demand wages and transport facilities for returning to their villages. Their mental agony was accentuated by multiple factors such as a sudden loss of livelihood, possibility of lack of food and inability to assist in harvesting their rabi crop due to not being able to reach home in time. Reports of inadequate response of some districts in providing the essential boarding and lodging arrangements along the way multiplied their fears. You have learnt many lessons from this situation when you were tasked to oversee the functioning of the District Disaster Relief Force in your district. In your opinion what ethical issues arose in the current migrant crisis? What do you understand by an ethical care giving state? What assistance can the civil society render to mitigate the sufferings of migrants in similar situations? (250 words) LINE OF THOUGHT/APPROACH: Ethical Issues No empathy and compassion towards the weaker section of the society as nobody realized that they would be impacted by lockdown. (they weren’t visible until pandemic brought them into national focus) Duty of the State towards the citizen Ethical Caregiving State means Care to All without discrimination Care in time Care that is adequate Care that comes without asking Role of Civil Society (NGOs, Community based Organisations, Private sector and people in general) on how they can help hand in hand with government to provide the following: Some kind of temporary shelters along the way Food and drinking water facilities at regular intervals Medical facilities at regular intervals Toilet facilities at regular intervals IASBABA REFERENCE: https://iasbaba.com/2020/03/covid-19-challenges-faced-by-migrant-workers/ https://iasbaba.com/2020/04/migrants-and-their-significance-in-india/ https://iasbaba.com/2020/06/day-7-q-3-the-mass-exodus-of-migrant-labourers-and-the-resulting-economic-slump-have-brought-in-focus-the-need-to-create-robust-institutions-that-can-handle-such-crises-with-more-deft-and-compassio/ Download the PDF of GS 4 Analysis here -> CLICK HERE [VIDEO] GS1 GS2, GS3, GS4 & ESSAY ANALYSIS - UPSC MAINS 2020 by IASbaba -> CLICK HERE IASbaba's PRELIMS EXCLUSIVE PROGRAMME (PEP) for PRELIMS 2021 - CLICK HERE Thank You IASbaba  

Jan 14, 2021 TLP Mains Answer Writing

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1 – ENGLISH & हिंदी): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 1 Questions [14th JANUARY,2021] – Day 4

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1- ENGLISH & हिंदी): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies 1 Questions [14th January 2020] – Day 4 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. How did internal rivalries lead to early British expansion and control in India? Discuss. किस प्रकार आंतरिक प्रतिद्वंद्विता ने भारत में शुरुआती ब्रिटिश विस्तार की ओर योगदान दिया? चर्चा करें। 2. Comment upon the role of peasants during the initial phases of freedom struggle.  स्वतंत्रता संघर्ष के शुरुआती चरणों के दौरान किसानों की भूमिका पर टिप्पणी करें। 3. What were the consequences of the Surat split? Analyse. सूरत के विभाजन के परिणाम क्या थे? विश्लेषण करें। 4. Examine the philosophical basis of the Swadeshi movement. How did it affect the views and perspectives of an average Indian back then? Discuss. स्वदेशी आंदोलन के दार्शनिक आधार की जाँच करें। एक औसत भारतीय के विचारों और दृष्टिकोणों को इसने कैसे प्रभावित किया? चर्चा करें। 5. What were the key achievements of the moderates? What were the limitations of their means and methods? Discuss. नरमपंथियों की प्रमुख उपलब्धियाँ क्या थीं? उनके साधनों और विधियों की सीमाएँ क्या थीं? चर्चा 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 :)

Jan 14, 2021 Ace The Prelims (ATP)

Ace The Prelims (ATP) – 2021– PRELIMS – [14th Jan, 2021] – Day 10

ARCHIVES Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s Ace The Prelims (ATP) – 2021 – PRELIMS & MAINS – [14th Jan, 2021] – Day 10   UPSC Quiz - 2021 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 14th January 2021 UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 14th January 2021 UPSC Static Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) – ECONOMICS [Day 14]   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

Jan 14, 2021 Daily Static Quiz

UPSC Static Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) – ECONOMICS [Day 10]

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

Jan 14, 2021 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2021 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 14th 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. 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 atke the Test - Click Here