Jan 27, 2021 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 27th January 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Climate Adaptation Summit 2021 Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – International relations & GS- III – Climate change In news  Indian Prime Minister addressed the Climate Adaptation Summit 2021 recently. Hosted by: Netherlands Key takeaways  The summit will have a significant focus on securing new investments to ensure that millions of smallholder farmers can adapt to the stresses of climate on food production. During the summit, it was said that India is targeting 450 gigawatt of renewable energy capacity by 2030. It is also promoting LED lights and saving 38 million tons of carbon-di-oxide emissions annually. India is going to restore 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. Clean cooking fuel is being provided to 80 million rural households. 64 million households are being connected to piped water supply. Integrated Weapons System Design Centre Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III – Defence & Security In news  Indian Vice President recently inaugurated the Integrated Weapons System Design Centre at DRDO’s Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Missile complex in Hyderabad. Key takeaways  The Integrated Weapon System Design facility is said to enhance the capability in design and development of command & control systems for surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems and ballistic missile defence (BMD) systems. Centre will give a thrust to the overall system design and evaluation methodology for state-of-the-art missile systems and will help in improving the performance of missiles. The Vice President inaugurated a new missile technology exposition and seminar hall on the campus.  The exposition will display missile technologies and weapon systems and the centre will be the backbone for outreach activities. Ayu Samvad: Largest public awareness campaign program  Part of: GS Prelims and GS- II – Health In news  “AYU SAMVAD” (My Health My Responsibility) is one of the largest public awareness campaign program being organised on AYURVEDA and COVID 19 PANDEMIC. Key takeaways  Organized by: All India Institute of Ayurveda New Delhi, as envisioned & supported by Ministry of AYUSH. More than 5 lac lectures will be organized across the nation by Ayurveda Physicians for citizens of India. Main objective: To create awareness through Lecture series to make common people aware about the theme “Ayurveda for COVID 19 Pandemic”. Fleet of electric buses flagged-off in Andaman and Nicobar Islands Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III – Infrastructure; Environment In news  The Lieutenant Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, flagged-off fleet of electric buses. Key takeaways  The introduction of electric buses will help cut down tail pipe emissions as well as provide comfortable public transport. The project for 40 electric buses is being executed by NTPC Vidyut Vyapar Nigam Limited (NVVN Limited), a 100% subsidiary of NTPC Limited, a PSU under Ministry of Power, Government of India. In addition to the above project, NVVN has emerged as successful bidder for providing turnkey solution for 90 electric buses in Bengaluru under the Smart City project.  These buses will provide last mile connectivity to NAMMA Metro network. NVVN is developing and providing complete range of zero emission mobility solutions for various vehicle segments. USA restores relations with Palestine Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – International relations In news  U.S. President's administration announced it was restoring relations with the Palestinians and renewing aid to Palestinian refugees. Key takeaways  It is a reversal of the Donald Trump administration’s cutoff and a key element of its new support for a two-state solution to the decades-old conflict agreed to by Israelis and Palestinians. Palestine is recognized officially as the State of Palestine by the United Nations and other entities. It is a de jure sovereign state in Western Asia claiming the West Bank (bordering Israel and Jordan) and Gaza Strip (bordering Israel and Egypt) with Jerusalem as the designated capital, although its administrative center is currently located in Ramallah. The entirety of territory claimed by the State of Palestine has been occupied since 1948, first by Egypt and Jordan and then by Israel after the Six-Day War in 1967. Intergovernmental Negotiations Framework (IGN) Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – International relations  In news  India’s Permanent Representative to the UN said that It has been nearly 13 years since the Intergovernmental Negotiations (IGN) started.  The UN Security Council is finding itself unable to act effectively to address issues of international peace and security as it lacked inclusivity. Important value additions  The Intergovernmental Negotiations framework (IGN) is a group of nation-states working within the United Nations to further reform of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), 15-member top organ of the world body. Composition: The IGN is composed of several different international organizations, namely: (1) The African Union; (2) The G4 nations (India, Brazil, Japan and Germany); (3) The Uniting for Consensus Group (UfC); (4) The L.69 Group of Developing Countries; (5) The Arab League; (6) The Caribbean Community (CARICOM). Each group represents a different set of positions vis-a-vis reforming the United Nations Security Council. In 2016, an "oral decision" was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly which approved of a declaration known as the "elements of convergence" which outlined the status of the consensus reached by the members of the IGN at that time. Miscellaneous MARUT Nehru Science Centre, Mumbai re-dedicated its artefacts of Rail Locomotives that have been restored during the lockdown period, for the visitors.  India’s own first indigenously designed and developed fighter aircraft Marut will now be available for public viewing. AMPHEX – 21 A large-scale tri-service joint amphibious exercise AMPHEX – 21 was conducted in Andaman & Nicobar group of islands from 21 – 25 Jan 2021. The exercise involved participation of Naval ships, amphibious troops of the Army and different types of aircraft from the Air force. Aim: Validating India’s capabilities to safeguard the territorial integrity of it’s island territories.  It also sought to enhance operational synergy and joint warfighting capabilities amongst the three Services. The exercise involved multi-faceted maritime operations by synergised employment of amphibious assault ships, surveillance platforms, execution of maritime air strikes and complex manoeuvres at sea. Ex KAVACH for defence of Andaman & Nicobar Islands formed a part of AMPHEX – 21. A joint intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance exercise under the aegis of HQ Integrated Defence Staff was also run concurrently to achieve Maritime Domain Awareness by employment of a multitude of sensors. (Mains Focus) SOCIETY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: GS-1: Women’s issues and Social Empowerment. GS-2:  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Women with disabilities Context: Many women in general and those with disabilities in particular have to face poverty, poor health conditions, little or no income, lower education levels and isolation.  With resources being scarce, women usually get the short end of the stick, more so if they suffer from some form of disability.  Issues faced during Pandemic times Access to essential items: Those with locomotor disabilities were not able to visit stores to access food and the virus acted as an impediment to getting delivery of essential services.  Access to Arogya Setu App: Many with sight disabilities were not able to access the Aarogya Setu app as it does not factor in their requirements.  Access to Digital Payments: Many payment apps are not accessible to the visually challenged and many online courses too are not tailored to their needs. Access to Digital Work Platforms: While work from home could be to the advantage of women with disabilities, there are several challenges in being able to access video calls and voice calls and, of course, there is lack of connectivity in many areas.  Access to Support: Social distancing and fear of the virus has led to many of them losing whatever little physical support they had in the form of attendants. The pandemic has also curtailed the possibilities of many disabled women being able to get physical and psychological support.  Vulnerable to Abuse: Trapped at home, they are also vulnerable to abuse and face barriers in being able to register a complaint with the police or bring this to the notice of a civil society organisation. Way Ahead Create a database of those with disabilities, especially of female gender. This will help understand their medical needs and tweak schemes accordingly Leveraging grassroots system: Government could use its robust grassroots systems with its health workers to create awareness in families about the need to not compromise on health and education for women with disabilities. Inclusive Skill training: Skill development, one of the flagship programmes of the government, should include courses and training specifically for women who are disabled in consultation with them.  Political Participation: Some of these women should be inducted into local decision-making bodies so that they can participate in processes, which build their skills. Disability friendly Grievance Redressal System: Set up a functioning telephone network, accessible to women with disabilities so that they can convey their needs to a relevant person in the local governance system. Conclusion Women with disabilities have been on the margins for far too long.  The pandemic has been particularly cruel to them but also offers an opportunity to enable them to become more independent and productive if the government makes a concerted effort. ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: GS-3: Government Budgeting GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.  Budgeting in a time of crisis Context: World over economies are facing crisis in the wake of COVID-19 Pandemic that disrupted the normal functioning of life. How US is trying to deal with economic crisis? Today the U.S. is facing its worst economic crisis since the Great Depression. Like Roosevelt, President Joe Biden is launching the American Rescue Plan to revive the economy.  His $1.9 trillion plan proposes  $1,400 per-person payments Increased unemployment benefits Assistance to local governments Support for accelerated vaccine rollout Investments to get children back in school Minimum wage of $15 an hour. What are Paul Krugman principles to deal with economic crisis? Noble Laureate Paul Krugman has offered advice against too much of caution in dealing with the economic mess. He has laid down the rules for budget-making.  Enhanced Government Spending: The first rule is to not doubt the power of the government to help. Government spending can be hugely beneficial. The Affordable Care Act, for instance, led to a decline in the number of Americans without health insurance, and gave people a sense of security.  Relaxation of Deficits: The second is to not be obsessed with debt. Economists agree that debt is far less a problem than conventional wisdom asserts. Interest rates are low by historical standards. The burden of servicing debt is low.  Inflation Concerns are overstated: The third rule is to not worry about inflation. Countries can run a ‘hot economy’ with low unemployment and large budget deficits, without runaway inflation.  Consensus on is difficult: The fourth is to not count on bipartisan support. There will be certain opposition with respect to government economy revival plans that can be for narrow purposes. Nevertheless, government should go ahead with providing stimulus to the economy. The Indian context – What measures can be adopted in upcoming Budget? Challenges w.r.t Fiscal Deficit: India’s GDP is estimated at ₹200 lakh crore. The government was quick to announce a package of ₹20 lakh crore. Fiscal deficit could overshoot the target set by the FRBM Act. Spending more is going to be difficult. Prioritising Health Spending: India has only five beds for 10,000 Indians and ranks 155th on bed availability in the Human Development Report of 2020. Experts opine that the government should increase healthcare spending from 1.5% of the GDP to 2.5%. Increase Spending on Infrastructure as it has multiplier effects: The National Infrastructure Pipeline aims to invest ₹111 lakh crore by 2025 in over 6,800 projects. The proposal to set up a Development Finance Institution is still on the anvil. The Chinese government has entered into building social housing projects. Urban employment guarantee scheme on lines of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme. This will be far better than direct cash transfers. [ Proposal for DUET: Click here ] Changes in Taxation: Despite historic lows in fuel prices, the government chose to increase fuel prices to record levels. GST has been a big source of revenue. There is a strong case for reducing GST tariff. Cess or surcharge can be levied on the super-rich. The average tariff must come down to 10% from its current level of 14% by 2024, as suggested by Professor Arvind Panagariya. Trade Liberalisation and Privatisation: With several key reforms – new labour codes, new farm laws, single nationwide GST, Insolvency Code, low Corporate Profit Tax – addition of privatisation and trade liberalisation would nearly guarantee a double digit growth. Conclusion According to the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy, unemployment, both rural and urban, is surging, and health and infrastructure budgets are getting stretched. Hence government has to come up with Budget which provides stimulus to the economy. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers.  Comments Up-voted by IASbaba are also the “correct answers”. Q.1 Consider the following pairs: Sea Bordering country 1. Adriatic Sea Albania 2. Black Sea Croatia 3. Caspian Sea Kazakhstan 4. Mediterranean Sea Morocco 5. Red Sea Syria Which of the pair given above are correctly matched? 1, 2 and 4 only 1, 3 and 4 only 2 and 5 only 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Q.2 Consider the following advantages of electric vehicles:  Reduced emissions Lower long-term maintenance costs  Unlimited life expectancy of rechargeable batteries  Saves money  Which of the above is or are correct?  3 and 4 only  1, 2 and 4 only  3 and 4 only 1 only Q.3 Which of the following organisation is or are part of intergovernmental negotiations framework  Arab League  Caribbean community  uniting for consensus group  G4 Nations  Asian  BRICS  Select the correct code  1, 4, 5 and 6 only  1, 2, 3 and 4 only  5 and 6 only  3, 5 and 6 only ANSWERS FOR 26th January 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 A Must Read On using blockchains in electronic voting: The Hindu On how inequality widened in the wake of Pandemic: The Hindu About wide learning gap in digital mode: The Indian Express

Jan 27, 2021 PIB

PRESS INFORMATION BUREAU (PIB) IAS UPSC – 18th January to 24th January – 2021

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 18th to 24th January, 2021 ARCHIVES GS-2 National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Implementation Plan for School Education (Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education, Human Resources) The National Education Policy, 2020 is the third in the series of National Education Policies (1968 and 1986 modified in 1992) in India and is the first education policy of the 21st century. NEP 2020 covers wider spectrum of school education from pre-primary to senior secondary. To undertake 50 hours of mandatory Continuous Professional development of teachers, 18 modules of 4-5 hours each comprehensively covering all aspects of elementary education have been launched under NISHTHA for in service teacher training (CPD) in the online mode on DIKSHA platform.  In-principle approval has been given for setting up the National Mission on Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Mission. A Committee has been formed for preparing framework on FL&N;, codification of learning outcomes etc. E-learning has been expanded through DIKSHA. DIKSHA provides access to a large number of curriculum linked e-content through several solutions such as QR coded Energized Textbooks (ETBs), courses for teachers, quizzes etc.  The department has launched an initiative called ‘Manodarpan’ for mental health and wellbeing of students. It aims to provide emotional support and counselling to the students under distress. Issuance of advisory guidelines, web page and national toll-free number, interactive online chat options and, national-level database and directory of counsellorsare part of the initiative.  MoU has been signed between Indian Sign Language Research and Training Centre (ISLRTC) and NCERT to develop Indian Sign Language dictionary for school education. CBSE exam reforms have been initiated; CBSE will introduce improvement examination from the year 2021 and will introduce English and Sanskrit in 2 levels from the session 2021-22 (already offers Mathematics and Hindi at two levels). Competency based questions have been introduced in the Board exams for class X and XII in a phased manner, increasing by 10% every year. Learning Outcomes upto Secondary level have been notified and draft of learning outcomes for senior secondary level have been released for inviting suggestions. The department is also aligning its existing schemes i.e, Samagra Shiksha, Mid Day Meal and Padhna Likhna Abhiyan with the recommendations of NEP 2020.  States and UTs are also constituting their own Task Force to steer implementation of the NEP provisions in their respective jurisdiction. 1st India-EU IPR dialogue (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.) Between the EU Commission and Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) through a virtual platform The aim of the dialogue was to further strengthen the India-EU relation & facilitate enhanced cooperation in the field of Intellectual Property Rights. The India Co-Chair provided an overview of various IPR developments, with an aim to meet the objectives set forth in the National IPR policy 2016. He also reiterated importance of legislative reforms brought in by India to stimulate innovation and creativity among start-ups and MSMEs. Various initiatives taken up by the Indian government in this context were appreciated by EU representatives.  The EU Co-Chair provided brief overview of DG trade and the various activities being undertaken by them including IPRs in relation to Free Trade Agreements as well as effective enforcement of Intellectual Property Rights. Indian counterparts updated the functionaries on reduced pendency on trademarks and department’s continuous efforts to further improve the process. Further, there were discussions on plant protection and farmer’s right and their importance for Indian economy. Representative from India also briefed on the various enforcement initiatives being taken by the government so as to ensure the right of the owners are respected. It is an opportunity to bring the two nations closer through collaboration in the area of IP protection and its enforcement. It was emphasized that this dialogue is an effective platform to discuss key intellectual property issues that affect business entities and to identify areas for closer collaboration for mutual benefit of both economies. GS-3 NITI Aayog to Launch Second Edition of India Innovation Index 2020 (Topic: Innovation) The release of the second edition of the index—the first was launched in October 2019—demonstrates the Government’s continued commitment towards transforming the country into an innovation-driven economy. The India Innovation Index 2020 seeks to rank the states and union territories based on their relative performance of supporting innovation, and to empower them to improve their innovation polices by highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. The ranking methodology is designed in a way that states can draw lessons from the national leaders in innovation.  The states and union territories have been divided into 17 ‘Major States’, 10 ‘North-East and Hill States’, and 9 ‘City States and Union Territories’, for effectively comparing their performance.  The states and union territories have been ranked on two broad categories: outcome and governance.  Overall, the framework of India Innovation Index 2020 consists of 36 indicators, which include hard data (32 indicators) and four composite indicators. India Innovation Index 2020 builds on the previous year’s methodology by introducing more metrics and providing a holistic outlook of the Indian innovation ecosystem.  The framework has been updated to include globally considered parameters for measuring innovation (such as the percentage of gross domestic product spent on research and development), while also retaining the parameters specific to the Indian economy. The index captures the trends and provides detailed analyses of the various factors that drive innovation at the country, state, and district levels. It is believed that these analyses would enable policymakers in identifying catalysts and inhibitors of innovation at the national and sub-national levels. AstroSat’s Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope spots rare ultraviolet-bright stars in a massive intriguing cosmic dinosaur in the Milky Way (Topic: Space and technology) Astronomers exploring the massive intriguing globular cluster in our Galaxy called NGC 2808 that is said to have at least five generations of stars have spotted rare hot UV-bright stars in it. These stars whose inner core is almost exposed, making them very hot, exist in the late stages of evolution of a Sun-like star. It is not clear how these stars end their lives as not many of them are detected in these fast-evolving phases, making their study crucial. With spectacular ultraviolet images of the cluster from Ultraviolet Imaging Telescope (UVIT) onboard India’s first multi-wavelength space satellite, AstroSat, they distinguished the hot UV-bright stars from the relatively cooler red giant and main-sequence stars which appear dim in these images. The findings of this study have been accepted for publication in the journal ‘The Astrophysical Journal’. About 34 UV-bright stars were found to be members of the globular cluster. From the data, the team derived the properties of these stars such as their surface temperatures, luminosities and radii. One of the UV-bright stars was found to be about 3000 times brighter than the Sun with a surface temperature of about 100,000 K.  The properties of these stars were then used to place them on what astronomers call the Hertzsprung-Russel (HR) diagram along with theoretical models to throw light on the characteristics of their parent stars and to predict their future evolution. Most of the stars were found to have evolved from a solar stage called the horizontal branch stars with hardly any outer envelope. Thus they were bound to skip the last major phase of life called the asymptotic giant phase and directly become dead remnants or white dwarfs. Such UV-bright stars are speculated to be the reason for the ultraviolet radiation coming from old stellar systems such as elliptical galaxies which are devoid of young blue stars. Hence, it is all the more important to observe more such stars to understand their properties.   Successful Flight Test of Smart Anti Airfield Weapon (Topic: Defence) In yet another milestone, DRDO successfully conducted captive and release trial of indigenously developed Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) from Hawk-I of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) off the Odisha coast The smart weapon was successfully test fired from Indian Hawk-Mk132 of HAL. This was the 9th successful mission of SAAW conducted by DRDO till now. It was a text book launch, which met all mission objectives. The telemetry and tracking systems installed at Interim Test Range (ITR), Balasore captured all the mission events. SAAW is indigenously designed and developed by DRDO’s Research Centre Imarat (RCI) Hyderabad. This is 125 Kg class smart weapon, capable of engaging ground enemy airfield assets such as radars, bunkers, taxi tracks, and runways etc. up to a range of 100 kms. The high precision guided bomb is light weight as compared to weapon system of the same class. The weapon was earlier successfully test fired from Jaguar aircraft. New ant species discovered from Kerala (Topic: Biodiversity) Two new species of a rare ant genus have been discovered in India. The species of the ant genus Ooceraea found in Kerala, and Tamil Nadu add to the diversity of this rare genus. They differ from others of the same genus on the basis of the number of antennal segments. One of them found in the Periyar Tiger Reserve of Kerala, has been named Ooceraea joshii, in honour of Prof. Amitabh Joshi, a distinguished evolutionary biologist from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR) an autonomous institute of the Department of Science & Technology (DST), Government of India. New species are typically named after some distinguishing attribute or location but are often named after scientists as a means of honouring their research contributions to biology, especially in the fields of evolutionary and organismal biology, ecology or systematics. The genus is currently represented by 14 species of which eight possess nine-segmented antennae, while five possess eleven- segmented antennae and one species has recently been reported with eight-segmented antennae. In India, the genus was so far represented by two species with nine- and eleven-segmented antennae respectively. The newly discovered ant species with ten segmented antennae discovered, establish an old world lineage that contains a species emerging as the only model organism among the ant subfamily. Year-end Review: Ministry of Science & Technology Pilot Plant for Continuous Flow Manufacture of Silver Nanowires inaugurated: CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory (NCL has developed the world’s most inexpensive technology for continuous large scale production of precision silver nanowires on a large scale. This technology development was carried out under the Advanced Manufacturing Technologies (AMT) initiative by the Department of Science and Technology (DST). With this technology developed at CSIRNCL, Indian industries will be able to enter into manufacturing of this precision material. Patents have been filed to protect the technology and the product has been tested for various applications including conducting inks in various forms. 3D-Printed Patient-Specific Medical Implants developed: CSIR-Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO has developed a technology for manufacturing patient-specific medical implants for several human body parts. Patient-specific implants are also required in the case of unavailability of implants for specific sites of the human body or when available implants do not fulfil the anatomical requirement of a patient. Scientists at CSIR-CSIO have attempted to solve this complex problem with the help of Computer Aided Design (CAD) followed by 3D printing of the biocompatible metals. In this process, the patient’s CT-Scan/MRI data is utilised to design the implant with specifications compatible with patients. Licensing Agreement for Glass-lined Micro-reactors signed: CSIR-NCL has developed the first of their kind miniaturised glasslined flow reactors, where glass is coated on metal, thereby increasing the chemical compatibility of the reactors without compromising on its performance. These micro-reactors are the first of their kind among the existing microreactors and flow reactors typically available in metals, polymers, glass and ceramic.  Peptide discovered for Effective in Fighting Rheumatoid Arthritis: CSIR-Central Drug Research Institute has recently reported that a specific fragment of a protein potentially helps in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Besides reducing the inflammation in joints, it also prevents the joint bones from being destroyed. This protein does not affect the overall immune system of the body and instead selectively protects the joints in case of rheumatoid arthritis. This protein is secreted by a liver fluke or parasitic worm called Fasciola which helps these parasites in concealing their identity from the host immune system by diminishing the inflammatory attack that is set in motion by the host as a defensive strategy to kill the parasites. This protein is called Fasciola Helminth Defense Molecule-1 (FhHDM-1)and is similar to a human protein that plays an important role in reducing inflammatory responses. The liver fluke protein also has a very high anti-inflammatory response. The CDRI researchers are considering this study as an important breakthrough in terms of effectiveness and selectivity in treating rheumatoid arthritis. CSIR partnered clinical trials on COVID-19 (CuRED) portal launched: Called CuRED or CSIR Ushered Repurposed Drugs, the website provides information about the drugs, diagnostics and devices including the current stage of the trials, partnering institutions and their role in the trials and other details. Pravasi Bharatiya Academic and Scientific Sampark (PRABHASS) portal launched: The virtual platform, a portal, is named PRABHASS which means a ray of light, and is an acronym for “Pravasi Bharatiya Academic and Scientific Sampark - Integrating Indian Diaspora with the Mother Land”. PRABHASS is being developed with collaborative effort of all major scientific ministries / departments and the Ministry of External Affairs of India to serve as National Digital Platform to effectively collaborate with Global Indian S&T; Community for collectively promoting inclusive growth in India, strengthening Indian innovation ecosystem and contributing towards nation building. Sustainable Processing of Municipal Solid Waste: ‘Waste to Wealth’: The mechanized segregation system segregates solid waste into metallic waste (metal body, metal container etc.), biodegradable waste (foods, vegetables, fruits, grass etc.), non-biodegradable (plastics, packaging material, pouches, bottles etc.) & inert (glass, stones etc.) wastes. The bio-degradable component of the waste is decomposed in an anaerobic environment popularly known as bio-gasification. In this process biogas is liberated through conversion of organic matter. The biogas can be used as fuel for cooking purpose. The gas can also be utilized in gas engine for generation of electricity. The residual slurry from biogas plant is converted to compost in a natural process known as vermi-composting by introducing earthworms. The vermi-compost is utilized in organic farming. Eco-friendly , efficient and DME fired “Aditi Urja Sanch” Unit launched: Dimethyl ether (DME) is an ultra-clean fuel. CSIR-NCL has developed nation’s first kind of DME pilot plant with 20-24Kg/day capacity. The newly designed stove can burn with up to 30 % DME blended with LPG or 100% DME as fuel. The air to fuel ratio is different for DME blended fuel to achieve optimum combustion and thermal performance. A 20% DME blending with LPG, with fewer infrastructure changes, is expected to result in substantial savings annually. The DME from Methanol process developed by CSIR-NCL is producing 20-24 kg/ day. This economical, cost-effective process will be scaled up to 0.5 Ton per day through CSIR-FTC project. Technology transfer of Community level Water Purification system by High Flow Rate Fluoride & Iron Removal: This Community Level Water Purification System has a Flow-Rate capacity of 10,000 Ltr/hr and uses commonly available raw materials such as sand, gravel and adsorbent materials. It comprises a three-stage purification process which purifies water within permissible limits (1.5 ppm & 0.3 ppm for Fluoride and Iron respectively). The technology uses a combination of Oxidation, Gravitational Settling and Chemisorption process in an Affordable Package. The integrated backwashing profile of the technology will help in improving the shelf-life of the filtration media in a resource rationalised manner. Phytorid Technology Sewage Treatment Plant (STP) set up at NCL-Pune: The Sewage treatment using Phytorid Technology by the CSIR scientists is a natural treatment method by which treated water could be utilised for various purposes including for drinking. Phytorid is a subsurface mixed flow constructed wetland system developed and internationally patented by CSIR-NEERI, Nagpur with successful demonstration in the field for more than 10 years of continuous operation as a stand-alone sewage treatment system. Phytorid is a self-sustainable technology for wastewater treatment that works on the principle of natural wetland. It uses certain specific plants which can absorb nutrients directly from wastewater but do not require soil. These plants act as nutrient sinker and remover. Using Phytorid Technology for the treatment of sewage, it is possible to recover and reuse the treated water for gardening purposes. India International Science Festival-2020 sets five Guinness Records, attracts over 1.3 lakh participants: The theme of the year’s IISF was ‘Science for Self-Reliant India and Global Welfare’. Kisan Sabha App – Connecting farmer to the supply chain: Kisan Sabha App has been developed by CSIR-CRRI to connect farmers to the supply chain and freight transportation management system. This portal acts as a one-stop solution for farmers, transporters, and other entities engaged in the agriculture Industry. Clinical trials of Anti-Cancer Drug received DGCI approval: The IND application of IIIM-290 (anticancer lead) has been approved by DCGI, for conducting Phase I/II clinical trial in pancreatic cancer patients. Trials of car fitted with Fuel Cell Technology (LT-PEMFC) Stack successfully ran by CSIR and KPIT Ltd.: CSIR and KPIT Technologies Ltd. successfully ran trials of India’s first Hydrogen Fuel Cell (HFC) prototype car running on an indigenously developed fuel cell stack at CSIR-National Chemical Laboratory, Pune. The HFC technology uses chemical reactions between hydrogen and oxygen (from air) to generate electrical energy, eliminating the use of fossil fuels. Further, the fuel cell technology emits only water, thus cutting down the emission of harmful greenhouse gases along with other air pollutants. The fuel cell is a low-temperature PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) type Fuel Cell that operates at 65-75 degree centigrade, which is suitable for vehicular applications.  Safe Biometric-based exploder developed: The exploders available in the market are found unsafe when it is stolen and misused by the unauthorised person. To avoid misuse, a biometric-based exploder has been developed. World's Largest Solar Tree fabricated: CSIR-CMERI has developed the World’s Largest Solar Tree, which is installed at CSIR-CMERI Residential Colony, Durgapur. The installed capacity of the Solar Tree is above 11.5 kWp and has the annual capacity to generate 12,000-14,000 units of Clean and Green Power. This Solar Tree is a Quantum Leap towards making an Energy Reliant and Carbon Negative India. The solar tree has 35 solar panels, each with a capacity of 330 watts. The solar panels connected through metal branches produce solar power. Has the potential to save 10–12 tons of CO2 from being released into the atmosphere every year. Since the shadow area is minimum in solar trees, they could be set up in agricultural farms to run pumps, e-tractors and tillers as an alternative to diesel. The excess power can be sent to the grid, providing an economic return to farmers. Made in India aviation weather monitoring system installed at Bengaluru International airport: Aviation Weather Monitoring System (AWMS) Geochemical baseline atlas under National Geochemical Mapping (NGCM) of soils for 22 elements: First “Geochemical Baseline atlas of India” in continental scale, consisting of geochemical maps of oxides and trace elements in topsoil and bottom soil. Introduction of Asafoetida (Heeng) cultivation in the Indian Himalayan region: In Lahaul valley in Himachal Pradesh Major Success Stories of DST in 2020 India is placed 3rd among countries in scientific publication as per NSF database. The country has featured within the top 50 innovative economies globally (at 48th rank), as per Global Innovation Index (GII). It has also reached 3rd Position in terms of no of PhDs, in size of Higher Education System; as well as in terms of No of Startups. India was elected as Chair of the World Health Organization’s (WHO) executive board + Global partnership on artificial intelligence (GPAI) DRAFT 5th National Science Technology and Innovation Policy Released for Public Consultation: The objective of the policy is to identify and address strengths and weaknesses of the Indian STI ecosystem to catalyse socio-economic development of the country and also make the Indian STI ecosystem globally competitive. The National Super Computing Mission (NSM) is rapidly boosting High-Performance Computing (HPC) in the country to meet the increasing computational demands of academia, researchers, MSMEs,and startups in oil exploration, flood prediction, genomics, and drug discovery. Param Shivay, the first supercomputer assembled indigenously, was installed in IIT (BHU), followed by Param Shakti and Param Brahma at IIT-Kharagpur and IISER, Pune, respectively. Thereafter facilities were set up in two more institutions, and MoUs signed for providing itto 13 institutions. Param Siddhi the high-performance computing-artificial intelligence (HPC-AI) achieved global ranking of 63 among the top 500 most powerful non-distributed computer systems. Sophisticated Analytical & Technical Help Institutes (SATHI) centres to house major analytical instruments have been established to provide common servicesof high-end analytical testing, thus reducing dependency on foreign sources. TheST has set up three such centres—at IIT Kharagpur, IIT Delhi and BHU under the SATHI programme which are being operated with a transparent, open-access policy to make professionally managed,S&T; infrastructure readily accessible to academia, start-ups, industry and R&D; labs. New S&T; areas of Cyberphysical systems like AI, Robotics, IOT receive big boost with the launch of the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (ICPS). Three Centres of Excellence (CoE) were established in Himalayan Universities in Kashmir, and North Eastern States of Sikkim & Assam to lead climate change research. Research on monsoons, aerosols, glacial lake outburst floods saw significant publications. Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions (GATI), an innovative pilot project launched by the DST ushered a novel intervention for promoting gender equity in science and technology. It nudges institutions of higher education and research towards supporting diversity, inclusion and the full spectrum of talent for their own success and progression. In particular, it aspires to create an enabling environment for equal participation of women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Medicine andMathematics (STEMM) disciplines at all levels. The Survey of India (SoI), a subordinate department under the Department of Science & Technology has embarked on a pan-India geospatial mapping of the country at a very high resolution of 10 cm scale usingmost advanced technologies like drone technology. With this, India joins the select club of few nations to have Ultra High-resolution National Topographic Data as foundation data. This effort has been launched in three States -- Haryana, Maharashtra, and Karnataka and also for the Ganga basin. Science and Engineering Research Board (SERB), a Statutory body of the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, initiated a Scheme to mitigate gender disparity in science and engineering research funding in Indian academic institutions and R&D; laboratories. A well-thought- out Scheme titled “SERB-POWER (Promoting Opportunities for Women in Exploratory Research)” has been designed exclusively for women scientists. Indian astronomers have worked with 2020 Physics Nobel Laureate Prof. Andrea Ghez on the design of backend instruments and possible science prospects of the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) project being installed at Maunakea in Hawaii which can revolutionize the understanding of the universe and the enigmas in it. The QuIC lab at RRI achieved the first successful implementation in Indiaof a highly secure efficient Quantum Cryptographic scheme for an end to end free space QKD under the RRI-ISRO project on “Quantum Experiments using Satellite Technology”. The lab has also come up with an end-to-end simulation toolkit named as “qkdSim” to ensure safety in secure quantum communication platforms, a first of its kind that enables Quantum Key Distribution Protocol (QKD) experimentalists to obtain a realistic estimate of the result from an experimental setup meant to demonstrate a QKD protocol. Prelims-oriented News National Girl Child Day: 24th January 11th National Voters’ Day (NVD): 25th January 850 MW Ratle Hydro Electric (HE) Project: Located on river Chenab, in Kishtwar district of Union Territory  of Jammu and Kashmir PARAKRAM DIWAS on 23rd January: To celebrate the 125th Birth Anniversary year of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose; to inspire people of the country, especially the youth, to act with fortitude in the face of adversity as Netaji did, and to infuse in them a spirit of patriotic fervor Exercise Kavach: Training for Joint Operation in Andaman Sea by Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force and Indian Coast Guard The exercise involves synergised application of maritime surveillance assets, coordinated air and maritime strikes, air defence, submarine and landing operations.  Concurrently Joint Intelligence Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR) exercise involving various technical, electronic and human intelligence from three services will be conducted.  The ISR exercise will validate the capabilities of intelligence gathering from space, air, land and sea-based assets/ sensors, its analysis and sharing to achieve battle field transparency for quick decision making at different stages of operations. The joint force would execute multi domain, high intensity offensive and defensive manoeuvres in the Andaman Sea and Bay of Bengal and carry out amphibious landing operations, air landed operation, helicopters-borne insertion of Special Forces from sea culminating in tactical follow-on operations on land. The tri-services exercise aims to fine tune joint war-fighting capabilities and SOPs towards enhancing operational synergy. For Migrant workers National Migration Support Portal: It would effectively help in the smooth formulation of state and national level programs for migrant workers. Will address the data gap and empower migrant workers who generally migrate in search of employment and income generation.  Help the government for linking the migrant population with existing Welfare Scheme- under Atam Nirbhar Bharat.  The various data that will be recorded via Shram Shakti include demographic profile, livelihood options, skill mapping and migration pattern. Shramshakti Digital Data Solution for Migrant Workers – a training manual for migrant workers After training via this module, tribal migrant workers will be able to demand and access services, rights and entitlements related to livelihood and social security at their village before migration, as well after migration at destination towns and cities. Launch of a tribal migration cell, a tribal museum at Goa Cabinet approves signing of Memorandum of Understanding between India and Uzbekistan for cooperation in the field of Solar Energy The main area of work under is to identify research/demonstration/pilot projects between the National Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), Ministry of New & Renewable Energy, India and the International Solar Energy Institute (ISEI), Uzbekistan in the following mutually identified areas: Solar Photovoltaic Storage Technologies Transfer of Technology 5TH India – Singapore Defence Ministers’ Dialogue Defence and security engagements between India and Singapore have broadened significantly in scale and scope across all three Services of the Armed Forces as well as in the areas of defence technology and industry. Both countries have also found common ground on multilateral fora and engagements. Signing of the Implementing Agreement on Submarine Rescue Support and Cooperation between the two Navies Conveyed their full support towards the early conclusion of agreements to facilitate conduct of live firings and to establish reciprocal arrangements for the cross-attendance of military courses Welcomed initiatives to expand bilateral defence cooperation including the implementing agreement on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) cooperation in August 2020 for the two Armed Forces to have closer operational collaboration in response to disasters and capacity-building activities of mutual interest. The cyber agencies of both armed forces have also stepped up engagements. The Ministers were pleased that the Indian Navy and Republic of Singapore Navy successfully conducted the 27th edition of Singapore-India Maritime Bilateral Exercise (SIMBEX) and also participated in the second edition of the Singapore-India-Thailand Maritime Exercise (SITMEX).These exercises enhance interoperability amongst the navies and underscore the shared responsibility of the countries to work together to keep sea lines of communications open. DRDO hands over Motor Bike Ambulance ‘Rakshita’ to CRPF: A bike-based casualty transport emergency vehicle The bike ambulance will help in overcoming the problems faced by Indian security forces and emergency healthcare providers. It will provide life-saving aid for evacuation of injured patients from low intensity conflict areas. This will be handy in the congested streets and remote locations, where access through ambulance is difficult and time consuming.  The bike can respond to a medical emergency need of patients faster than a four-wheeler due to its functionality and integrated emergency medical support system. Rakshita is fitted with a customized reclining Casualty Evacuation Seat (CES), which can be fitted in and taken out as per requirement. Other major features are the head immobilizer, safety harness jacket, hand and foot straps for safety, adjustable footrest, physiological parameter measuring equipment with wireless monitoring capability and auto warning system for driver. The vital parameters of the patient can be monitored on the dashboard mounted LCD. It is also equipped with air splint, medical and oxygen kit for on spot medical care. Government of India strengthens cargo handling capacity of Chabahar Port, Iran India has supplied a consignment of two Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHC) to Iran’s Chabahar port, with a total contract value of over USD 25 Million under a contract agreement for supply of 6 MHC. With 140 metric tons lifting capacity, multipurpose equipment and accessories like Mobile Harbour Cranes (MHC) will enable  India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) to provide seamless services for Container, Bulk and General Cargo at Shahid Beheshti Port of Chabahar. This is a step towards India’s commitment towards infrastructure development of ‎Shahid Beheshti Port of Chabahar. The bilateral contract between the Islamic Republic of Iran and Republic of India was signed on 23rd  May 2016 with a total value of USD 85 million ‎for Equipping, Mechanizing and starting Operations at Shahid Beheshti Port of Chabahar development Phase- I. To achieve this ambitious aim, an SPV namely India Ports Global Limited (IPGL) Mumbai was incorporated under the ambit of the Ministry of Ports, ‎Shipping and Waterways. About Chabahar Port Located on the Makran coast South-eastern coast of Iran It is relatively underdeveloped free trade and industrial zone (compared to the sprawling port of Bandar Abbas further west) For India, Chabahar is of strategic importance for two reasons: First, it is the nearest port to India on the Iranian coast, which provides access to the resources and markets of Afghanistan and Central Asia. Second, it is located 76 nautical miles (less than 150km) west of the Pakistani port of Gwadar, being developed by China; this makes it ideal for keeping track of Chinese or Pakistani military activity based out of Gwadar. Mining of Potash in the state of Rajasthan Rajasthan has huge Potash and Halite resources spread across 50,000 sq. kms in the Nagaur – Ganganagar basin in the northwest.  Bedded Salt formations are strategically useful for underground oil storage, repositories for hydrogen, ammonia and helium gas, storage of compresses gas and nuclear waste.  Potash & Sodium Chloride from the Bedded Salt are extensively used in the Fertiliser Industry and the Chemical Industry respectively. The first-ever WasteWater Treatment Technology Model - Purifies Waste Water for Irrigation/Farming purposes An Integrated Waste Water Rejuvenation Model which has Six-Stage purification profile for comprehensive treatment of Waste Water, based upon diverse purification parameters.  The approx. 24,000 litres of Water that can be rejuvenated using ARP will be sufficient for almost 4 acres of Agricultural Land (barring seasonal variations in water requirements). The used filtration media have been specially developed to handle Indian Sewage Water Parameters and based upon Geographical Variations they may be modified.  The filter media is also locally source-able, so as to ensure that there would not be any stress in the Supply Chain for scaled-up Manufacturing of ARP.  The treated water which is now being used for irrigationcan be used even for drinking purpose also when little more time is given for settling.  The system has dual benefit as while the treated water is being used for irrigation purpose, the filtered sludge generated is also utilized as manure / fertilizer.  The bio char prepared from dry leaves falling in autumn season is also used for mixing in soil as it reduces the water requirement for irrigation thus saving precious water.  Personality in News Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose  Subhash Chandra Bose was twice elected President of the Indian National Congress, (1938-Haripur and 1939-Tripuri). Owing to political differences, he resigned from the Congress Presidentship in 1939 and organised the All India Forward Bloc a faction within the Congress in Bengal. In Calcutta, Bose organised mass protests and was arrested.  He was later put under house arrest from where he escaped.  He went to Germany via Afghanistan. However, in 1943 Bose lost hope that Germany could be of any help in gaining India’s independence.  He then turned to Asia where he finally came at the helm of the Indian National Army (INA). INA found support among expatriate Indians and Bose formed the Azad Hind government which came to produce its own currency, postage stamps, court and civil code.  It was recognised by Axis states. During the final two years of the war, Bose with considerable Japanese backing- led the forces of the Indian National Army into battle against the British. The I.N.A. was essentially non-communal, with Muslims quite prominent among its officers and ranks, and it also introduced the innovation of a women’s detachment named after the Rani of Jhansi. Azad Hind Fauj Leader of Azad Hind Government Head of State of this Provisional Indian Government-in-exile Bose was convinced that armed struggle was the only way to achieve independence for India. He had been a leader of the radical wing of the Indian National Congress in the late 1920s and 1930s, rising to become Congress president in 1938 and 1939 but was ousted following differences with Mahatma Gandhi and the Congress leadership. Subhas Chandra Bose had escaped from India in 1941 and gone to Germany to work for India’s Independence. In 1943, he came to Singapore to lead the Indian Independence league and rebuild the Indian National Army (Azad Hind Fauj) to make it an effective instrument for the freedom of India. Netaji went to the Andaman which had been occupied by the Japanese and hoisted there the flag of India. In early 1944, three units of the Azad Hind Fauj (INA) took part in the attack on the north-eastern parts of India to oust the British from India. The Azad Hind Fauj, with the slogan of ‘Delhi Chalo’ and the salutation Jai Hind was a source of inspiration to Indians, inside and outside the country. Netaji rallied together the Indians of all religions and regions, living in south-east Asia, for the cause of India’s freedom. A women’s regiment of Azad Hind Fauj was formed, which was under the command of Captain Lakshmi Swaminathan. It was called the Rani Jhansi regiment. The Azad Hind Fauj became the symbol of unity and heroism to the people of India. Bose’s death was seen as the end to the Azad Hind movement. Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose Dweep: Ross Island of Andaman & Nicobar Island

Jan 27, 2021 Ace The Prelims (ATP)

Ace The Prelims (ATP) – 2021– PRELIMS – [27th Jan, 2021] – Day 21

ARCHIVES Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s Ace The Prelims (ATP) – 2021 – PRELIMS & MAINS – [27th Jan, 2021] – Day 21   UPSC Quiz - 2021 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 27th January 2021 UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 27th January 2021 UPSC Static Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) – GEOGRAPHY [Day 21]   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 27, 2021 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2021 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 27th 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 take the Test - Click Here

Jan 27, 2021 Daily Static Quiz

UPSC Static Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily Static Quiz (PYQs) – GEOGRAPHY [Day 21]

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 27, 2021 IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Quiz

UPSC CSAT Quiz – 2021: IASbaba’s Daily CSAT Practice Test – 27th 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 27, 2021 TLP Mains Answer Writing

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1 – ENGLISH & हिंदी): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies Paper 2 Questions [27th JANUARY,2021] – Day 15

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1- ENGLISH & हिंदी): UPSC Mains Answer Writing – General Studies 2 Questions [27th January 2020] – Day 15 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. What are the most pressing challenges of governance arising due to India’s federal polity? Examine. भारत की संघीय राजनीति के कारण शासन की सबसे प्रमुख चुनौतियां क्या हैं? जांच करें।  2. While briefly explaining the concepts, illustrate the benefits of cooperative and competitive federalism? अवधारणाओं की संक्षिप्त व्याख्या करते हुए, सहकारी और प्रतिस्पर्धी संघवाद के लाभों का वर्णन करें? 3. Critically evaluate the efficacy of the manner in which powers are distributed between the Union and the States. संघ और राज्यों के बीच शक्तियों के वितरण के तरीके का समालोचनात्मक मूल्यांकन करें। 4. What is National Infrastructure Investment Fund (NIIF)? What are its objectives and need? Explain. राष्ट्रीय अवसंरचना निवेश कोष (NIIF) क्या है? इसके उद्देश्य और आवश्यकताएं क्या हैं? स्पष्ट कीजिए। 5. Should corporate houses be allowed to own banks? Share and substantiate your views. क्या कॉरपोरेट घरानों को बैंकों के स्वामित्व की अनुमति दी जानी चाहिए? अपने विचार को साझा कर उनकी पुष्टि 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 26, 2021 TLP Mains Answer Writing

SYNOPSIS [26th JANUARY,2021] Day 14: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

  For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE   SYNOPSIS [26th JANUARY,2021] Day 14: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. The Basic Structure has maintained the integrity of Indian constitution. Elucidate  Approach: As the directive in the question is elucidate it is important to explain the doctrine of basic structure clearly and then explain, how it has maintained integrity of the Indian constitution over the period of time, also question demands to highlight important court judgements which have followed subsequently.   Introduction:  The constitution empowers the Parliament and the State Legislatures to make laws within their respective jurisdiction. Bills to amend the constitution can only be introduced in the Parliament, but this power is not absolute. If the Supreme Court finds any law made by the Parliament inconsistent with the constitution, it has the power to declare that law to be invalid. Thus, to preserve the ideals and philosophy of the original constitution, the Supreme Court has laid down the basic structure doctrine. According to the doctrine, the Parliament cannot destroy or alter the basic  structure of the constitution.  Body:  Origin-  The origins of the basic structure doctrine are found in the German  Constitution which, after the Nazi regime, was amended to protect some basic  laws. The original Weimar Constitution, which gave Parliament to amend the  Constitution with a two-thirds majority, was in fact used by Hitler to his  advantage to made radical changes. Learning from that experience, the new  German Constitution introduced substantive limits on Parliament’s powers to  amend certain parts of the Constitution which it considered ‘basic law’.  The Supreme Court recognized the Basic ‘Structure concept’ for the first time  in the historic ‘Kesavananda Bharati’ case in 1973. Ever since the Supreme  Court has been the interpreter of the Constitution and the arbiter of all  amendments made by parliament. In this case validity of the 25th Amendment  act was challenged along with the Twenty-fourth and Twenty-ninth  Amendments. The court by majority overruled the ‘Golak Nath’ case which  denied parliament the power to amend fundamental rights of the citizens. The  majority held that article 368 even before the 24th Amendment contained the  power as well as the procedure of amendment. The Supreme Court declared  that Article 368 did not enable Parliament to alter the basic structure or  framework of the Constitution and parliament could not use its amending  powers under Article368 to 'damage', 'emasculate', 'destroy', 'abrogate',  'change' or 'alter' the 'basic structure' or framework of the constitution. This decision is not just a landmark in the evolution of constitutional law, but a turning point in constitutional history.  Maintaining Integrity-  The essence of the constitution lies in its values like justice, equality, rule of  law, separation of powers, secular character, a unique form of federalism etc.  Basic Structure plays an important role in cementing these values as the base of constitutionalism in India.   Subsequent to the evolution of Basic Structure in 1973 Supreme Court in its  various rulings tried to protect the integral features as mentioned in the  Keshvananda Bharti case by striking down laws which are in contravention to  the Basic Structure of the Constitution. For example, in Minerva Mills Vs Union  of India the Supreme Court used the Basic Structure doctrine to strike down  the 39th Amendment and the parts of 42nd amendment respectively and  paved the way for restoration of Indian democracy.  In I. Coelho Vs State of Tamil Nadu, the Supreme Court held that all laws were  subject to the test of being consistent with fundamental rights which are the  part of Basic Structure thus giving primacy to the fundamental rights as an  integral feature and its importance in upholding the essence and values of the  constitution because rights are the base of any constitution if it has to succeed  in principle.  Basic Structure paved the way for executive and parliament to follow certain  ideologies and principles such as socialism and secularism in letter and spirit.  Thus, allowed political dispensation to play an important role in the socio economic justice.  If the majority of the Supreme Court had held (as six judges indeed did) that  Parliament could alter any part of the Constitution, India would most certainly  have degenerated into a totalitarian State or had one-party rule. At any rate,  the Constitution would have lost its supremacy. One has to only examine the  amendments that were made during the Emergency. The 39th Amendment  prohibited any challenge to the election of the President, Vice-President,  Speaker and Prime Minister, irrespective of the electoral malpractice. The 41st  Amendment prohibited any case, civil or criminal, being filed against the  President, Vice-President, Prime Minister or the Governors, not only during  their term of office but forever. Thus, if a person was a governor for just one  day, he acquired immunity from any legal proceedings for life. If parliament  were indeed supreme, these shocking amendments would have become part  of the Constitution.  Supreme Court fairly relied on the Basic Structure to strike down the 99th  constitutional amendment act which sought to set up NJAC (National Judicial  Appointments Commission) to replace the appointment of judges by the  collegium system. This, despite the bill being passed by the two-third  majorities of both houses of the parliament and 20 state legislatures. Thus,  prohibiting the influence of executive interference in the judicial appointments  which comes under the basic structure of the constitution. Conclusion:  In a country governed by a written Constitution, the democratic right flows from the  attribute of constitutional sovereignty. We cannot claim our fundamental right or any  other legal rights, unless we retain the structure of our sovereignty, the respect of the Constitution is effectively the respect of its basic structure, even that may not be  immune to reconsideration by a bench larger than the one which presided over  Kesavananda Bharati (a review of the judgement by a 13-Judge Bench was almost  undertaken in 1975). In any case, perhaps the only things whose constancy can and  must be taken for granted in a constitutional democracy are the existence of a  Constitution and democracy. And both should be directed at preserving the nation, its  identity, integrity and those institutions which are essential for its survival as a  constitutional democracy. 2. The 42nd amendment is considered a watershed in India’s constitutional history. Why? Justify. Approach A simple and straightforward question where in you need to justify with reasons why the 42nd constitutional amendment act is considered a watershed in India’s constitutional history. Introduction The year 1976 is remembered as a landmark for the Indian Constitution, because of the sweeping 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act (CAA). It was majorly based on the proposals made by Swaran Committee. The amendment amended the Preamble of the Constitution, 40 Articles, Seventh Schedule and added 14 New Articles to the Constitution.  Body The 42nd CAA had brought about widespread changes to the Constitution, whose effects can still be felt to this day. Overall, the 42nd amendment is considered a watershed in India’s constitutional history, this is evident from the following details – Preamble – The characterization of India as “Sovereign Democratic Republic” was changed to “Sovereign Socialist Secular Democratic Republic”.  The words ‘unity of Nation’ replaced with ‘unity and integrity of Nation’. Directive Principle of State Policy - Four new directive principles were added To secure opportunities for healthy development of children (Article 39) Enabling free legal aid Article39A Protection of workers in factories Article 43A Protection of environment and to safeguard Forest and Wildlife Article 48A Fundamental Duties - Part IVA was added to the Constitution enabling Fundamental Duties to the citizens. Federal - Insertion of Article 257A, to enable the Centre to deploy armed forces to deal with any grave situation of law and order arising in any State. Emergency - It authorized the President to declare emergency in any part of the country. Legislature - Life of Lok Sabha and State Legislative Assembly was extended from 5 to 6 years. Executive - Article 74(1) was added, which stated that President shall act in accordance to the council of ministers. Judiciary - Insertion of Article 32A in order to deny Supreme Court the power to consider the Constitutional validity of a State law. Another new Article 131A, gave the Supreme Court an exclusive jurisdiction to determine question relating to the Constitutional validity of a central law. The 42nd amendment is also sometimes called ‘mini-Constitution’ or ‘Constitution of Indira’, and was the most comprehensive amendment carried out during internal emergency (1975-1977). This background of being enacted during an emergency also makes the amendments controversial, even to this day. As it was undertaken at the time of Emergency, when most of the opposition leaders were detained in preventive detention, so it became more or less a party affair. The Act introduced several changes, most of which sought to tilt the power in the favour of executive away from the Judiciary. History often takes note of the introduction of the words secular and socialist to the Preamble. But although the original Preamble did not contain these specific words, several provisions in the Constitution, especially those relating to “Fundamental Rights” and “Directive Principles of State Policy” entrenched particular variations of secularism and socialism in keeping with the vision of the framers. The 42nd amendment to the constitution is seen in the context of efforts towards a growing global consciousness for the protection of the environment in the seventies. This is evident from Article 48A, part of the Directive Principles of State Policy and Article 51A (g), part of the Fundamental Duties, added through this amendment. The 42nd amendment was also watershed for its aftermath where for the first time in Indian history, a non-congress led government was formed in India after elections post emergency. Under the leadership of Morarji Desai, Janta Party Government started the work of reforming the Constitution. The powers of the Supreme Court and High Courts were provided back to them through the 43rd Amendment.  Along with the strengthening of the Judiciary and removing the 42nd amendment, the 44th Amendment has also done the task of strengthening the Constitution even more than ever.  This amendment did many changes to escape the situation like the 42nd Amendment in the future. The term “Armed Rebellion” was added in the place of “Internal Unrest” in Emergency related provisions. Along with this, this amendment also strengthened the fundamental rights. Conclusion A Constitution to be living must be growing. Using Article 368, the 42nd Constitutional Amendment Act of 1976 has touched upon almost all the parts of the Constitution, disturbing the balance between various organs of government as well as the federal structure but Indian democracy and constitution proved to be resilient and were further strengthened from this shock in the future. 3. How does the principle of checks and balances operate in the Indian polity? Explain in the light of constitutional provisions. Approach Students are expected to write about the checks and balance in the Indian polity and how it operates in the light of constitutional provisions. Introduction  There is a system of checks and balances wherein the various organs impose checks on one another by certain provisions. The aim of checks and balances is to safeguard that different branches of government control each other internally (checks) and serve as counter weights to the power possessed by the other branches (balances). Body Principle of Checks and balance in the Indian polity: The doctrine of separation of powers is a part of the basic structure of the Indian Constitution even though it is not specifically mentioned in it. Hence, no law and amendment can be passed violating it. The system of checks and balances is essential for the proper functioning of three organs of the government. Different organs of the state impose checks and balances on the other.  The following examples illustrate the checks and balances: Judiciary exercises judicial review over legislative and executive actions. Judiciary has the power to void laws passed by the Parliament. Similarly, it can declare the unconstitutional executive actions as void. Legislatures review the functioning of the executive. Executive appoints the judges. Legislative branch removes the judges. It can also alter the basis of the judgment while adhering to the constitutional limitation. Some of Indian constitution provisions which emphasizes the checks and balance are the following: The judiciary has the power to strike down any law passed by the legislature if it is unconstitutional or arbitrary as per Article 13 (if it violates Fundamental Rights). A system of checks and balances has been embedded so much so that the courts are competent to strike down the unconstitutional amendments made by the legislature. Article 50 This article puts an obligation over the State to separate the judiciary from the executive. But, since this falls under the Directive Principles of State Policy, it is not enforceable. Articles 121 and 211 The legislatures cannot discuss the conduct of a judge of the High Court or Supreme Court. They can do so only in matters of impeachment. It, in a way, provides for the separation of the legislature and the judiciary. This article states that the conduct of justice or the way a judge discharges his duties of any Court cannot be discussed in the legislature (state or union). Articles 122 and 212 The courts cannot inquire the validity of the proceedings of the legislatures. This article is aimed at keeping the judiciary (the law interpreting body) and the legislature (the law-making body) separated. It does so by stripping the judiciary of any power to review and question the validity of proceedings that take in a legislature or the Parliament. Articles 53 and 154 respectively, provide that the executive power of the Union and the State shall be vested with the President and the Governor and they enjoy immunity from civil and criminal liability. Article 361 This article separates the judiciary and the executive. It states that the President or any governor of any state is not answerable to any court in the country for actions and activities are taken in performance/exercise of the powers and duties of their office. Weakening System of Checks & Balances: Judicial Activism: In many recent judgments, the Supreme Court has become hyper-activist in making judgements that are deemed as laws and rules. This transgresses the domain of legislature and executive. Executive Excesses: Executive in India is alleged of over-centralisation of power, weakening of public institutions like CIC & RTI and passing laws to strengthen law, order & security of the state but curbs freedom of expression as well like UAPA. Weakened Legislature Scrutiny: According to data by PRS Legislative Research, while 60% of the Bills in the 14th Lok Sabha and 71% in the 15th Lok Sabha were referred to Department-related Standing Committees (DRSCs) concerned, this proportion came down to 27% in the 16th Lok Sabha. Conclusion For a democratic polity and diverse society like India, a Constitutional system with strict separation of powers is undesirable and impracticable. However judicious and calculated constitutional functional overlapping makes way for democratic collaboration of the three organs of the government. Such mutual cooperation bridges the executive, legislative and judicial gap facilitating smooth functioning of government. 4. What is vaccine diplomacy? How is it shaping India’s image and stature in the world? Examine.  Approach-   Candidate is required to define vaccine diplomacy, give current stature of India in pharmaceutical industry. How India overcame covid-19 challenges and developed vaccine. In the latter half geopolitics of south Asia and vaccine diplomacy of India with new dynamics can be given.  Introduction  India is known as pharmacy of the world. It is the largest producer of generic medicines, accounting for 20 percent of their global production. It meets 62 percent of the global demand for vaccines. Since the coronavirus pandemic began, the country has been at the forefront of supplying medicines and generic drugs to others. Body  India received requests from more than 100 countries for hydroxychloroquine (once thought to help treat COVID-19) and paracetamol (a painkiller), and sent supplies to Brazil, the United States, and Israel. By May 2020, India was spending $16 million on pharmaceuticals, test kits, and other medical equipment for about 90 countries. What is vaccine diplomacy? Vaccine diplomacy is the use of vaccines to increase a country's diplomatic relationship and influence of other countries. The Covid-19 pandemic has thus far afflicted around 96 million people worldwide. The death toll has crossed 2 million. The 1918 ‘pneumonic’ pandemic led to the death of an estimated 50 to 100 million people worldwide. An estimated 17-18 million people died in India. There has, in present times, been a global effort since April 2020, to jointly address the challenges posed by the Covid-19 virus. The pandemic is now at a stage where the largest number of cases and casualties are in some of the most advanced countries. The US has suffered the largest number of fatalities in the world, with over 24 million cases and 4 lakh deaths. The affluent western world, notably the US and Europeans, are focused almost exclusively on their own problems. There appears to be relatively little interest or intent in helping developing countries New Delhi has set itself the target of immunising 300 million of its citizens by July, from both its AstraZeneca and Bharat Biotech Industries. While initial exports were scheduled for Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia and Morocco, commitments have also been made for larger supplies to SAARC neighbours like the Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Bhutan and Nepal. This is an occasion for India to earn the long-term goodwill of its immediate neighbours. One hopes this exercise is carried out imaginatively, for also strengthening our relations with other countries in our extended neighbourhood, across the Indian Ocean. Even before multilateral organizations got on board, New Delhi also consistently supported measures to temporarily suspend COVID-19 vaccine intellectual property rights—which would mean it could produce generic versions at lightning speed whenever a vaccine was created—and sponsored a WHO resolution calling for international cooperation to ensure global access to the vaccine. While commercial overseas shipments are likely to start around March, India has already sent 3.2 million free doses of the vaccine Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and the Maldives. India’s vaccine diplomacy puts it in direct competition with China—which has made no secret that vaccine distribution is wrapped up in its broader geopolitical ambitions. It has even explicitly included vaccine distribution in its broader Health Silk Road initiative, which aims to bolster China’s international soft power. Vaccines are the single most powerful health interventions developed by modern medicine. Universal, equitable, and affordable supply of vaccines for low- and middle-income countries are needed more than ever. Conclusion  India is guiding vaccine efforts worldwide while developed nations are struggling India can become a leading example of not using vulnerable times to further its own narrow interests but to help global community overcome this crisis. India has no doubt has earn the goodwill of international community but has improved its stature in south asia. 5. Bailing out distressed airlines is a bad economic precedent. Do you agree? Critically comment. Approach  Since question is asking you to Critically comment so it demands forming opinion on main points but in the end, you have to provide a fair judgement. Introduction  Last year several airlines told the Treasury Department they would take funds from a $25 billion bailout as the industry faces the looming threat of bankruptcy amid global travel limitations due to the coronavirus pandemic. That bailout is sparking an inevitable debate about moral hazard—when a business engages in riskier behaviour because it’s protected from the consequences—and the future of the airline industry. Body BAILING OUT DISTRESSED AIRLINES IS A BAD ECONOMIC PRECEDENT While the airline industry is always fast to request a bailout, such a bailout is rarely appropriate.  As far as bailouts go, it is preferable to extend loans to firms than outright grants.  To give the big carriers tens of billions with no strings is to subsidize capital that was very well-compensated and imposes that cost on our kids and grandkids.  Nevertheless, before the government considers any sort of bailout for the airlines, airlines should always first go through the bankruptcy process. It’s investors who are powerful and want to be bailed out. Investors knew when they made their investments that they would have to weather a storm or two. BAILING OUT DISTRESSED AIRLINES IS NOT A BAD ECONOMIC PRECEDENT  The concessions are greater than some airlines were hoping to make, but the industry is struggling and access to cash is crucial as passengers avoid flying and demand refunds on previously booked flights.  Airlines would still operate in bankruptcy, but the question is: What will they look like after bankruptcy. Plus, the airline industry has a big problem even if it comes out of this pandemic financially unscathed. How will it convince passengers—or even its own employees—that it’s safe to fly again? Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic is undoubtedly hurting the airline industry. The hardship is the product of both direct government action prohibiting or restricting flights and consumers’ unwillingness to fly owing to their fears of being infected by the virus or infecting others. Cancelled and postponed flights mean sharp declines in revenues but not a reduction in fixed costs. Passengers aren’t booking many new flights, so there’s little revenue coming in. Further, as airlines cancel flights, the costs of refunding tickets that have already been purchased also mount.  However, even if one is sympathetic to the idea of helping industries in times of crisis, the critical question to ask is, are there more effective ways to resolve a company’s financial problems than a taxpayer-funded bailout?    TLP HOT Synopsis Day 14 PDF

Jan 26, 2021 TLP Mains Answer Writing

SYNOPSIS [25th JANUARY,2021] Day 13: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE   SYNOPSIS [25th JANUARY,2021] Day 13: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 1): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)   1. What do you understand by the term ‘liberty’? Discuss. What are the key constitutional provisions related to personal liberty? Examine.  Approach The above question has two parts, first part demands explanation of the term Liberty very comprehensively, also it is important to define the term in Indian context as well and its importance in constitutional democracy like India. In the second part of the question, detailed explanation of constitutional provisions related to liberty is needed. Introduction “I have never thought, for my part, that man's freedom consists in his being able to do whatever he wills, but that he should not, by any human power, be forced to do what is against his will.”        Jean-Jacques Rousseau The above quote from Rousseau underlines the importance of liberty as the epitome of human progress, and that individual is the master if his own will and liberty is the expression of the same human will which allows him to live freely without subjugation. In modern societies liberty is the backbone of a functional constitutional democracy which allows people to freely express their choices and opinions. Body Liberty in its literal sense means the absence of restraints and rights to do whatever one likes. Liberty, therefore, means freedom to do everything provided it does not injure other’s freedom. It implies necessary restraint on all to ensure the greatest possible amount of liberty for each. In this sense, Liberty can be maximized only when there is mutual respect and goodwill, and all follow a simple rule of social behaviour. The simple rule of man’s sociability tends to harmonise his liberty with that of his fellows. It entails such restraints as reasonable and necessary to promote and ensure the greatest possible extent of liberty. Reasonable Restraints and restrictions do not destroy liberty; it is destroyed only When such restraints are arbitrary and unjust. It constitutes the enjoyment of those rights, and the creation of such opportunities as help man grow to be the best of himself, develop his faculties, and plan his life as he deems best. The true test of liberty lies in the laws of the State and the extent to which they help a citizen to develop all that is good in him. Liberty is, thus, a product of rights. It thrives best where rights are guaranteed to all without distinguishing sex, creed, caste, colour, or status in society. In Indian context- Preamble of the constitution secures to all the citizens Liberty of thought, belief, faith, Expression and worship through their fundamental rights enforceable in the court of law. Liberty as elaborated in the preamble is very essential for the successful functioning of the Indian democratic system and all-round development of the individual’s capabilities. Constitutional Provisions- Liberty is the basis on which the pivots of our own freedom struggle stood, therefore, our forefathers ensured that the future generations immerse in this beautiful concept which enables every individual the right life with dignity.  The Preamble of the Indian Constitution too proclaims that one of its objectives is to secure Liberty "Liberty of thought, expression, belief, faith and worship”. Article 19 is the most important and key article which embodies the “basic freedoms”. Article 19 provides that all citizens shall have the right to:         -Freedom of speech and expression.         -Assemble peaceably and without arms.         -To form associations or unions.         -Move freely throughout the territory of India.         -Reside and settle in any part of the territory of India.         -Practice any profession, or to carry on any occupation, trade or business. Article 21-Protection of Life and Personal Liberty- No person shall be deprived of his life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law. This fundamental right is available to every person, citizens and foreigners alike. Article 21 provides two rights-Right to life and Right to personal liberty. The Supreme Court of India has described this right as the ‘heart of fundamental rights. The right specifically mentions that no person shall be deprived of life and liberty except as per the procedure established by law. This implies that this right has been provided against the State only. State here includes not just the government, but also, government departments, local bodies, the Legislatures, etc. Right to Freedom of Religion (Articles 25 – 28)- This indicates the secular nature of Indian polity. There is equal respect given to all religions. There is freedom of conscience, profession, practice and propagation of religion. The State has no official religion. Every person has the right to freely practice his or her faith, establish and maintain religious and charitable institutions. Preventive Detention (Article 22)- Preventive detention means detention of a person without trial and conviction by a court but merely on suspicion in the minds of the executive authority. Preventive detention is a specific law in which the executive is authorized to impose restrain upon the liberty of a man who may not have committed a crime but who it is apprehended, is about to commit acts that are prejudicial to the public safety etc. Conclusion In India the concept of liberty has received a far more expansive interpretation. The Supreme Court of India has rejected the view that liberty denotes merely freedom from bodily restraint and has held that it encompasses those rights and privileges that have long been recognized as being essential to the orderly pursuit of happiness by free men. The meaning of the term personal liberty was considered by the Supreme Court in the Kharak Singh’s case, which arose out of the challenge to Constitutional validity of the U. P. Police Regulations that provided for surveillance by way of domiciliary visits and secret picketing. The concept of personal liberty is not a simple or isolated issue. Its protection through law inevitably conflicts with other important values. Personal liberty is an unusually broad term, encompassing both fundamental Constitutional rights such as freedom from government intrusions into homes and the right of citizens to make decisions about marriage, contraception and abortion and less well defined and arguably less critical issues. 2. What were the objectives of including fundamental duties in the Indian Constitution? Discuss. Have those objectives been met? Critically examine. Approach A straightforward question where in you need to discuss the objectives of including fundamental duties in the Indian constitution while in the second part you need to critically examine whether those objectives have been met or not. Introduction The Constitution of India, the longest written Constitution of the world, has envisaged a holistic approach towards civic life in a democratic polity. Since human conduct cannot be confined to the realm of Fundamental Rights, the Constitution has envisaged certain duties, which are correlated to the rights, and those duties have been described as Fundamental Duties Body Constitution is the supreme law of India. Fundamental Duties of the citizens of India are mentioned in Article 51A of the Indian Constitution. By the 42nd Amendment of the Constitution, adopted in 1976, Fundamental Duties of the citizens have been enumerated after the Swaran Singh Committee suggested for inclusion in the Constitution of certain Fundamental Duties and obligations which every citizen owes to the nation. In this regard, the objectives for including fundamental duties in the Indian constitution can be seen from the following points –  The Fundamental duties have been incorporated in the constitution to remind every citizen that they should not only be conscious of their rights but also of their duties. The concept of Fundamental Duties was taken from the constitution of USSR along with the concept of Five Year Plan. No democratic polity can ever succeed where the citizens are concerned only about their rights and are not willing to be active participants in the process of governance by assuming responsibilities, discharging citizenship duties and coming forward to give their best to the country. The Government thought that non-declaration of citizen’s duty was a missing part of the ‘social contract’ which the citizens’ are deemed to have entered into with the Government under the framework established by and under the Constitution of India. The general objectives behind were also to “remove the difficulties in achieving the objective of socio-economic revolution, to end poverty, ignorance, disease, inequality, etc.” The incorporation of Fundamental Duties in the Constitution was an attempt to balance an individual’s civic ‘freedoms’ with his civic obligations. It is expected that a citizen of India, while enjoying Fundamental Rights, should also perform these duties. Inclusion of this Article has brought our Constitution in line with Article 29(1) of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights which provides that: “Everyone has duties to the community in which alone the free and full development of the personality is possible.” While examining whether the objectives of fundamental duties have been met, following points can be considered – Fundamental duties act as a constant reminder that the citizens while enjoying their fundamental rights should not forget about their duties towards the nation. These duties act as a warning signal for the people against any type of antisocial activities.  Some duties are of such a nature that they are being performed by the citizen in each and every case like paying respect to the National Flag and National Anthem. These duties have given a chance to the people to have an active participation in the society rather than being a spectator. These duties promote a sense of discipline and commitment towards the society. For example, the Supreme Court of India ordered cinema halls to play National Anthem while portraying the Nation Flag. This was a remarkable step taken by the Supreme Court while giving the importance to the fundamental duties. The courts use fundamental duties for determining constitutionality of law. If any law is challenged in court for its constitutional validity and if that law is providing force to any of the fundamental duties then that law has been held reasonable.  For example, in AIIMS Students Union v. AIIMS (1983), it has been held that Fundamental Duties though not enforceable by writ of the court, yet provide a valuable guide and aid to interpretation of constitutional and legal issues. At the same time, it is pertinent to note that most of the objectives of fundamental duties are far from being achieved, as is evident from the following points –  Some of the duties are vague and terms used therein are complex which even a highly educated man would find difficult to grasp like it is difficult to identify the noble ideas that inspired our national struggle for freedom. Thus, some duties are ambiguous in nature. There has been very less awareness in the general public with regards to fundamental duties where focus in general discourse is provided to fundamental rights but hardly anyone focuses on fundamental duties. There is no specific provision nor any sanction as to implementation and enforcement of Fundamental Duties. Thus, these duties cannot be enforced by a court of law so, many feel that it is of no use to include these duties in the Constitution. Critics don’t consider the list of fundamental duties as exhaustive. They feel that many more important duties like paying taxes, casting votes that were also suggested by the Swaran Singh Committee were not included in this list. These duties are placed in Part IV-A of the Indian Constitution that is after the Directive Principles of the State Policy, that’s why not much importance is given to them. According to the experts, it should be placed in Part III after the Fundamental Rights.  Lip service is being paid to the doctrine of gender equality. The fact remains that generally women are still regarded as inferior both at home and workplace although there has been an improvement, however the degree of the improvement has been minimal. Way Forward –  The first and foremost step required by the Union and State Governments is to sensitise the people and to create a general awareness of the provisions of fundamental duties amongst the citizens on the lines recommended by the Justice Verma Committee. Further, the NATIONAL COMMISSION TO REVIEW THE WORKING OF THE CONSTITUTION recommends - Preamble to the Constitution of India and the 10 clauses of article 51A on Fundamental Duties to be appropriately displayed on all government publications, diaries, calendars and at public places so that they always remain in the focus of the citizens. It also recommends that Article 51A be shifted to Part II (Citizenship) of the Constitution and suitable changes may be carried out to make Fundamental Duties to form a compendium with the Fundamental Rights. Need to set up an autonomous body to act like ombudsman on Citizenship Values which could create a mechanism to act as catalyst towards overseeing operationalization of Fundamental Duties.  Conclusion In modern context, it has become increasingly important to instil a reinvigorated sense of civic responsibility among Indian citizens. This can be achieved by adding new duties to the existing list of Fundamental Duties while also laying emphasis on the performance of the existing ones. Awareness of our citizenship duties is as important as awareness of our rights. Thus, the Fundamental Duties act as the foundation of human dignity and national character. Those duties actually constitute the conscience of our Constitution. 3. Discuss the underlying principles of the DPSP? How relevant are the Gandhian principles for a free market democracy? Comment. Approach Students are expected to write about the DPSP in the introduction and underlying principles of the DPSP in 1st part of body. And also write about how much Gandhian principles are relevant for a free market democracy.  Introduction  The Directive Principles of State Policy are guidelines to the central and state governments of India, to be kept in mind while framing laws and policies. These provisions, contained in Part IV of the Constitution of India, are not enforceable by any court, but the principles laid down therein are considered fundamental in the governance of the country, making it the duty of the State to apply these principles in making laws to establish a just society in the country. Body Underlying principles of DPSP: Many scholars believe that DPSPs is the kernel of the Constitution. The DPSPs lay down the guidelines for the state and are reflections of the overall objectives laid down in the Preamble of Constitution.  The expression “Justice- social, economic, political” is sought to be achieved through DPSPs. DPSPs are incorporated to attain the ultimate ideals of preamble i.e. Justice, Liberty, Equality and fraternity. Moreover, it also embodies the idea of the welfare state which India was deprived of under colonial rule. The provisions contained in this Part cannot be enforced by any court, but these principles are fundamental in the governance of the country and it shall be the duty of the State to apply these principles in making laws. Gandhian principles are based on Gandhian ideology used to represent the programme of reconstruction enunciated by Gandhi during the national movement. Relevance of Gandhian principles for a free-market democracy are as follows: Gandhi was a first-rate egalitarian and a socialist whose ideas on socialism were an improvement on present-day notions of socialism and communism. His idea was that power is to be as decentralised as possible. Gandhi had a different take on diffusing powers to the grass-root level later it culminated into 73rd and 74th constitutional amendment as directed under Article 40.  And 97th Amendment Act for cooperative societies as per Artcile 43B. The powers were decentralised and the responsibility of every individual was to be performed effectively. Globalisation has turned the world into a global village while Gandhi wanted to promote a Globe of Villages. He said that developing a village is to make it self sufficient and capable enough to develop itself against the world. The village industries are still abiding by the Gandhian Model of development. As directed under Article 43. Globalisation and consumerism have in fact made people’s lives tougher. The gulf between the rich and poor is widening day by day. Gandhian principle of self-sustenance and serving others is a significant requirement in present times as ever. But some people repudiate the Gandhian idea of self-reliance. They are of the view that this principle has become obsolete in contemporary times, as it seems like a form of a protectionist barrier. But his values of self-empowerment and self-control are crucial in current times because people seem to have succumbed under the worldly temptations. Social justice is also one of the basic principle of Gandhianism. He was of the view that absolute equality is impossible but we can try to bridge the gap between the rich and poor as far as possible. Starting from universal healthcare under Ayushman Bharat, Reservation programmes for SC, ST and other weaker section of society as directed under Article 46, scheme like Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan to Obamacare policy in the United States of America, the contemporary world has adopted the concept of social justice as a guiding principle in recent times. His principle of Swadeshi is quintessential in times of globalisation. Globalisation results in local producers being harmed. Gandhi always said to wear Khadi and use products which are made in India, but in present times this is not the case. Government and even the citizens need to work and encourage the producers to use local resources and make local products. The central government’s initiative of Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat  is one step ahead to achieving self-sufficiency. The main tenet that he propagated was Satya. As opposed to this, in contemporary times, people are not truthful and they are not presented with the existing reality of the system. Here, technology plays its part. Technology can help bring the reality and truth out of the systems. It can curb our main evil, corruption. Information and Communications Technology plays a significant role in this. Conclusion All the climate deals, environment conservation treaties and Sustainable Development Goals follow the Gandhian principle of self-sustenance directed in DPSP. The Gandhian idea of trusteeship is one of the most significant principles in these dire times. We need to realize that we don’t own the universe and how our behaviour disrupts nature and sustainable living is the need of the hour. 4. What are your views on the ongoing farmers protest over the farm bills? Substantiate your views. Approach Candidate is required to give a brief about background of protests, what are the farmer’s demands, what is the objective behind. With the analysis of current agrarian crisis and farm reforms views can be put suggesting a way forward in the end. Introduction Since 26th November 2020, the borders of Delhi have been witnessing a huge agitation being carried out by farmers, most of them from Punjab and Haryana. The farmers are protesting against 2 Farm Bills that the Rajya Sabha recently passed: (1) the Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020, and (2) the Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020. Body The Farmers’ Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) Bill, 2020: This Bill allows the farmers to sell their produce outside the Agricultural Produce Market Committee (APMC) regulated markets. So, the farmers clearly have more choice on who they want to sell. The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Bill, 2020: This Bill makes provisions for the setting up of a framework for contract farming. The farmer and an ordained buyer can strike a deal before the production happens.  According to PRS India, a "Standing Committee on Agriculture (2018-19)" observed the APMC laws needed reforms as cartelization had begun to crystallise due to a limited number of traders in mandis.  What are objections of farmers? There was no consultation undertaken by the central government at the time of promulgating the ordinances, and subsequently while pushing the bills through the Parliament. The global experience across agricultural markets demonstrates that corporatisation of agriculture without a concomitant security net in the form of an assured payment guarantee to the farmers results in the exploitation of farmers at the hands of big business. This posses threat to small and marginal farmers who constitutes 86% of total farmers. Dismantling of the APMC mandis, which have stood the test of time and have provided farmers the remuneration to keep themselves afloat. The farm laws open the field to an alternate set of markets/private yards, where the buyer will have no statutory obligation to pay the minimum support price (MSP). What can be negotiated? According to Harish Damodaran agriculture economist, Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Act has to do with providing a regulatory framework for contract cultivation. This specifically concerns agreements entered into by farmers with agri-business firms. There is little rationale for objecting to an Act that merely enables contract farming. Such exclusive agreements between companies and farmers are already operational in crops of particular processing grades, for example potatoes, tomatoes. contract cultivation is voluntary in nature and largely for crops not amenable to trading in regular APMC or meant for exports. Act formalises contract cultivation through a “national framework” and explicitly prohibits any sponsor firm from acquiring the land of farmers – whether through purchase, lease or mortgage. Hence this provision is reformative in nature. When it comes to APMC, Farmers, for their part, would want no restrictions on the movement, stocking and export of their produce. In case of marketing — especially dismantling of the monopoly of APMCs — farmers, especially in Punjab and Haryana, aren’t very convinced about the “freedom of choice to sell to anyone and anywhere. The reason for this contention is Much of government procurement at minimum support prices (MSP) of paddy, wheat and increasingly pulses, cotton, groundnut and mustard happen in APMC.  In a scenario where more and more trading moves out of the APMCs, these regulated market yards will lose revenues. Additional demand of making MSP legal right will cause a big burden on fiscal calculations. FCI which is responsible for procurement at MSP is debt ridden with total debt of $5.8 billion which is out of proportion. Conclusion Way ahead can only be found if farmers and government compromise to find a middle ground. Elephant in the room is legal right of MSP, which is economically not prudent and should be negotiated hardly. Earlier laws related to agriculture were product of the times when drought and external calamities were regular. New farm laws are in coherence with changing times, for next revolution in agriculture a leap of faith has to be taken with a compromise made by both parties.   5. What role should electronic media play in a democracy like India? Are you satisfied with the present status of media in the country? Introduction  In the words of Benito Mussolini- “Democracy is a kingless regime infested by many kings who are sometimes more exclusive, tyrannical and destructive than one, if he be a tyrant”. It is the fear of being exposed by the media before the public that most of the politicians keep themselves under control to some extent”.  Freedom of speech and expression subject to reasonable restrictions is a fundamental right guaranteed by the Indian Constitution.  The recent years saw a greater interface between the common man and media. It is the media which has become a part of the life of those people of India, who are mostly dependent on it for various wants including information and entertainment. Media keeps the peoples awakened and there is no denying the fact that it has become one of the major instruments of social change Body WHAT ROLE SHOULD ELECTRONIC MEDIA PLAY IN A DEMOCRACY LIKE INDIA The media should work as a watchdog of the government and carry every report of the action of administration thereby keeping the people informed about the day-to-day happenings taking place around them.  The media is considered as fourth pillar of democracy. It should make us aware of various activities like politics, sports, economic social and cultural activities etc. It should act like a mirror which shows the bare truth and sometimes it may be harsh. The media should also expose loopholes in the democratic society, which ultimately helps government in filling the vacuums of loopholes and making a system more accountable, responsive and democratic friendly. Thus, the democracy without media is like a vehicle without wheels.  Media should act as a bridge between the people and the government and also a very powerful tool with the ability to make and break the opinion of the people. It has the capacity to swing perceptions or evoke emotions. This is why it has gained faith of the public. Media, through its various means of newspapers, television and cinema is what rules the heart and mind of people.  The media should help to shape the democratic society by giving emphasis to issues that are at one point in time, would have been considered strictly private such as child birth, child care, domestic violence, and sexual harassment.  Media in exercise of freedom of expression is essential to communicate the thoughts, views, ideas, philosophy, ideals and activities. Communication keeps society together and cohabitate. For healthy growth of civilization world, the free flow of information and ideas is essential.  Modern Methods of interpersonal Media communication include seminars dramas, public meeting and workshops etc. these are effective media methods to address small and medium gatherings, which can be used as grounds for advocating the Human Rights and building public opinion.  In any democratic country the media plays a vital role in creating moulding and relating public opinion. Over the years the media became so powerful that it soon acquires the status of forth state as it was aptly described by the British politician Edmund Burke. Media today touches almost every aspect of our public life. Media should play a very important and crucial role in enlisting and educating the people and aiding public involvement through advocating issues and transferring knowledge, skill and technologies to the people.  SATISFACTION WITH THE PRESENT STATUS OF MEDIA IN THE COUNTRY The present status media in the country is not at all satisfactory. The jingoism of a major section of the media is not new, nor is it unique to India. All democracies, at one time or another, get swept up by the rhetoric of revenge and war. People in the United Kingdom know this only too well. But what makes the blood lust of the Indian media especially alarming is the coming together of three broad trends that have adversely affected the independence and integrity of the news industry by allowing the government, the ruling party and big business houses a greater than ever role in shaping and determining the agenda of the media. The first is the increasing unviability of the existing business model as the move to digital reading habits has further undermined the revenue base for all but the biggest players. This has both increased the dependence of the media industry on advertisers and made them more vulnerable to government pressure of one kind or another. The second is the effective use of social media as a disciplining device whenever individual reporters or editors or even media houses stray too far from the officially mandated line. The third is the growing resort to legal means – sedition law, the Official Secrets Act, SLAPP suits etc – as well as extra-legal means as a way of penalising individuals and media who refuse to fall in line. Conclusion The Media is considered as fourth pillar of democratic society. For better working of democracy free press is must. But it does not mean an unrestrained press. The question here arises how and who to control press. The simple answer is there shall be an uplifting the standards of journalism can only be solution. Every reporter must honourably and wilfully make an effort not to fall in any trap and raise the standard of journalism. India being a democratic country, where the decision of the masses is supreme, mass media is in instrumental in ensuring that the people make informed decisions. Further, it is through the media that the masses are able to voice their opinions. Appreciation of the role of the media in good governance is essential to societal development.   TLP HOT Synopsis Day 13 PDF

Jan 26, 2021 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 26th January 2021

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Tributes being paid to Indian Bodo social activist  Part of: GS Prelims and GS- I – Culture In news  Tributes are being paid to Shri Upendra Nath Brahma by opening an institute in his name. Important value additions  Upendranath Brahma (1956 – 1990) was an Indian Bodo social activist and the former president of All Bodo Students' Union. The title of Bodofa (Guardian of Bodos) was posthumously conferred upon Brahma on 8 May 1990 in recognition of his vision and leadership.  His life is celebrated each year on the anniversary of his death, which is now called Bodofa Day. Bodos The Bodo is the largest ethnolinguistic group in the Assam.  They are concentrated mainly in the Bodoland Territorial Region of Assam. The Bodo  are a Tibeto-Burmese-speaking ethnic group.  The Bodo people speak the Bodo language, a Tibeto-Burman language recognized as one of twenty-two scheduled languages in the Indian Constitution. The Bodo people are recognized as a plains tribe in the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.  Related articles: Bodoland University develops fungal powder to boost immunity: Click here Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC): Click here Cost of issuing green bonds remains higher than other bonds  Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III – Economy In news  A study by RBI noted that the cost of issuing green bonds has generally remained higher than other bonds in India, largely due to asymmetric information. Key takeaways  The average coupon rate for green bonds issued since 2015 with maturities between 5 to 10 years have generally remained higher than the corporate and government bonds with similar tenure. For the US dollar-denominated green bonds with tenure of more than or equal to 10 years, the coupon rate was lower than the corporate bonds. Most of the green bonds in India are issued by the public sector units or corporates with better financial health. Green bonds constituted only 0.7% of all the bonds issued in India since 2018, Developing a better information management system in India may help in reducing maturity mismatches, borrowing costs and lead to efficient resource allocation in this segment. Important value additions  A green bond is a fixed-income instrument designed specifically to support specific climate-related or environmental projects. Green bonds typically come with tax incentives to enhance their attractiveness to investors. The World Bank issued the first official green bond in 2009. Around $157 billion worth of green bonds were issued in 2019. The Indian Sunderbans home to 428 species of birds: ZSI Part of: GS Prelims and GS- III – Biodiversity; Environment In news  A recent publication of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) states that the Indian Sunderbans, which is part of the largest mangrove forest in the world, is home to 428 species of birds.  Of the 428 birds listed, some, like the masked finfoot and the Buffy fish owl, are recorded only from the Sunderbans. The area is home to nine out of 12 species of kingfishers found in the country and rare species such as the Goliath heron and the spoon-billed sandpiper. Important value additions  The Indian Sunderbans also includes the Sunderban Tiger Reserve.  It is home to about 96 royal Bengal tigers as per the last census in 2020. It is a world heritage site and a Ramsar site.  The masked finfoot  The masked finfoot or Asian finfoot is an aquatic bird from the fresh and brackish wetlands of the eastern Indian subcontinent, Indochina, Malaysia and Indonesia.  The buffy fish owl The buffy fish owl, also known as the Malay fish owl, is a fish owl in the family Strigidae.  It is native to Southeast Asia and lives foremost in tropical forests and wetlands.  Due to its wide distribution and assumed stable population, it is listed as Least Concern on the IUCN Red List since 2004 Framework For Telemedicine Use In Management Of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease And Stroke In India Part of: GS Prelims and GS- II – Health In news  Recently, Union Health Minister released the Framework for Telemedicine use in Management of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Disease and Stroke in India. Key takeaways  Telemedicine with its components of tele-consultation, tele-monitoring, tele-triage can be integrated to build continuum of care model for major Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs). The increasing burden of NCDs in India requires multipronged interventions that can address promotive, preventive, curative, rehabilitative aspects of NCD care and management. Telemedicine can bridge and link all these aspects. It can be adapted and used by medical practitioners from primary to tertiary health care level in India, through the national teleconsultation network and other similar platforms.” National Non-Communicable Disease Monitoring Survey (NNMS) Part of: GS Prelims and GS- II – Health In news  Union Health Minister released the 'National Non-communicable Disease Monitoring Survey (NNMS)’, the largest comprehensive national Survey on risk factors and health systems preparedness of NON-COMMUNICABLE DISEASE (NCDs). Key takeaways  While two in five adults have three or more risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCD) in India, the status of health system in responding to the disease burden is also underscored. Overweight or obese: More than 1 in every 4 adults and 6.2% adolescents   Raised blood pressure: Almost 3 out of 10 adults  Raised blood glucose: 9.3%. Insufficient physical activity: More than 2 in 5 adults and 1 in 4 adolescents  One in every three adults and more than one-fourth proportion of men used any form of tobacco and consumed alcohol in past 12 months respectively. Do you know?  Conducted during the period of 2017–18, the purpose of the survey was to collect reliable baseline data on key indicators (risk factors, select NCDs and health systems response) related to the National NCD monitoring framework and NCD Action Plan. This is the first of its kind of a comprehensive survey on NCDs using standardised tools and methods, covering the age groups of 15-69 years, males and females residing in urban and rural areas of the country. Miscellaneous Padma Awards 2021 This year the President has approved conferment of 119 Padma Awards.  Important ones are listed below. Padma Vibhushan - Second-highest civilian award of the Republic of India, after the Bharat Ratna Shinzo Abe (Japan) - Public Affairs S P Balasubramaniam (Posthumous) - Art Belle Monappa Hegde - Medicine Maulana Wahiduddin Khan - Others: Spiritualism Padma Bhushan - Third-highest civilian award in the Republic of India, preceded by the Bharat Ratna and the Padma Vibhushan and followed by the Padma Shri Krishnan Nair Shantakumari Chithra - Art Tarun Gogoi (Posthumous) - Public Affairs Chandrashekhar Kambara - Literature and Education Sumitra Mahajan - Public Affairs Kalbe Sadiq (Posthumous) - Others: Spiritualism (Mains Focus) INTERNATIONAL/ ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE Topic: GS-2: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests GS-2:  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS-3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment Tech Giants vs Regulators Context: Parliament in Australia is debating legislation that would require Google and Facebook to enter into payment negotiations with media companies for using their content, with an arbiter mandated to adjudicate in the event an agreement cannot be reached. Response from Tech giants Counter arguments: Facebook & Google argued that the media industry was already benefiting from traffic routed to them by the digital platforms, and that the proposed rules would expose them to “unmanageable levels of financial and operational risk”. Threats of withdrawal: Google threatened to remove its search engine from Australia. Facebook said it could block Australian users from posting or sharing news links if the proposed norms on royalty payments were put into operation. What is the Core Issue in Australia? Importance of news for Tech Giants: While links to news may not be direct advertising money-spinners for Facebook or Google, both see the presence of news as an important aspect of audience engagement with their products. Payment of royalties not an issue for Tech Giants: While both companies are prepared to give some money to news publishers, they want to make deals on their own terms.  Control over payout process: The fight in Australia is evidently centred on how much control these companies would be able to retain on their payout process — operational aspects such as deciding the quantum of payments for news feed sources, and having to reveal changes in their algorithms. Balance of Bargaining Power: But Google and Facebook are two of the largest and most profitable companies in history – and each holds far more bargaining power than any news publisher. The news media bargaining code sets out to undo this imbalance. Commercial Agreement preferred: The media bargaining code being introduced is far too systematic for them to want to accept it. They would rather pick and choose commercial agreements with “genuine commercial consideration”, and not be bound by a one-size-fits-all set of arbitration rules. Difference with EU regulation: European authorities have specifically linked payments to copyright, without putting a forcing device into the agreements. Australia’s code, on the other hand, is almost entirely focused on the bargaining power of news outlets vis-a-vis the tech majors, and has some coercive features as well.  Issue of Power Equations: It is more of a competition issue in Australia, of power equations between traditional news outlets and tech platforms, with the question of abuse of dominance by the latter hanging in the balance Case Study: South Korea Naver Online Platform: Nearly four years previously, Naver, South Korea’s most popular news site and biggest search engine (like Google), had thrashed out an unusual model for working with Korean news publisher. New Business model to deal with News Media: Naver started designating some 125 outlets as “Naver News in-link partners”, and paying them for published stories on Naver. Another 500 odd news outlets are unpaid “search partners”. The total payout was over $40 million in 2017. Criticism of model: While this may not be the perfect model — news outlets have generally been unsatisfied with their share; and there are allegations that Naver manipulated the ranking of articles critical of South Korea’s top football association on the latter’s request — the template remains operational in a nation where nearly 85% of the population accesses news online. What has been the Firms’ response elsewhere? Facebook plans to launch its news tab feature (available in the US since 2019) in the UK, with likely tie-ups with The Guardian, The Economist, and The Independent.  Google is rolling out its news offering platform, Google News Showcase which features story panels that allow participating publishers to package the stories that appear within Google’s news products. It has on board more than 450 publications across a dozen countries,  Google had announced in December 2020 that it would “soon start offering people access to paywalled content in partnership with select news publishers”. It had said it would pay participating partners to provide limited access to paywalled content for News Showcase users. Both the platforms of Facebook and Google aim to formalise payment pacts with news outlets However, Google’s first response to France adopting the EU copyright rules was to stop displaying news snippets – until the French competition regulator stepped in, in October last year.  Google also stopped its Google News service in Spain, which made payments to publishers mandatory. Do You Know? In India, digital advertising spends in 2019 grew 24% year-on-year to Rs 27,900 crore, according to EY estimates, and are expected to grow to Rs 51,340 crore by 2022. Globally, Facebook and Google together command 61% of the market share in digital ad spends, according to Edelweiss Research; Google leads with 37%.  The debate in India Big Market: According to a FICCI-EY report on India’s media and entertainment sector for 2020, there are 300 million users of online news sites, portals and aggregators in the country — making up approximately 46% of Internet users and 77% of smartphone users in India at the end of 2019. With 282 million unique visitors, India is the second largest online news consuming nation after China Dominance of Intermediaries:  Policymakers in India have so far focused on the dominance of intermediaries such as Google and Facebook, which are positioned in a way that service providers cannot reach customers except through these platforms. Lacks adequate discussion: A substantial discussion on the impact of intermediary platforms on the health of news media outlets is yet to commence in any meaningful way here. Struggling Startups: Other major news aggregators in India are Dailyhunt and InShorts. According to a January 2020 report by Harvard University’s Nieman Lab, publishers were initially paid between Rs 5-6 lakh monthly for content hosted on Dailyhunt — but they started going off the platform after terms were changed. Implication of Australia Events: The tussles in Australia and elsewhere could have broader implications for the regulation of the digital economy in India in the longer term. Conclusion Google and Facebook have locked horns with Australian govt over laws that propose to make them pay news organisations for using their content. The outcome of the fight will have implications for India as well. Connecting the dots: Dominance of Big Tech: Click here Google Search Monopoly: Click here SCIENCE & TECH/ GOVERNANCE Topic: GS-3: Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life GS-2: Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies.  Transfats and FSSAI Context: In, 2020, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) reduced the permissible limit of trans fatty acids (TFA) in oils and fats to 3% for 2021 and 2% by 2022, against the earlier cap of 5%. About new regulation The decision was effected by an amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restriction on Sales) Regulations.  The new rules apply to edible refined oils, vanaspati (partially hydrogenated oils), margarine, bakery shortenings, and other cooking media like vegetable fat spreads and mixed fat spreads.  In 2018, the World Health Organization (WHO) had called for a global elimination of industrially produced TFAs by 2023. Different types of fats/ fatty acids All natural fats and oils are a combination of  Monounsaturated fatty acids Polyunsaturated fatty acids Saturated fatty acids or trans fatty acids.  Monounsaturated and Polyunsaturated fats are ‘healthy’ fats as apart from being a major source of energy, they help absorb some vitamins and minerals and build cell membranes and the sheaths surrounding nerves. These fats are free-flowing. About Transfats and their harmful nature There are two broad types of trans fats found in foods: naturally-occurring and artificial trans fats.  Artificial trans fats, which are considered harmful, are created in an industrial process that adds hydrogen to liquid vegetable oils to make them more solid, increase their shelf life, and for use as an adulterant as they are cheap.  They are present in baked and fried foods as well as adulterated ghee, which becomes solid at room temperature. Saturated fats or Trans fats are considered harmful as they clog arteries and result in hypertension, heart attacks, and other cardiovascular issues. The WHO estimates that over 5 lakh people with cardiovascular issues die globally every year due to the consumption of industrially produced TFAs. As per FSSAI, about 77,000 deaths take place annually in India due to TFAs. How did India and other nations start acting on it? In 2018, the WHO called for elimination of industrially produced TFAs by 2023, and brought out a step-by step guide called ‘REPLACE’ to help countries frame policies.  This prompted accelerated action by member states and other stakeholders.  However, threats posed by non-communicable diseases started gaining attention much earlier in the 1980s, following which Denmark became the first country to ban TFAs in 2003. In the next five years, Chile and Switzerland banned TFAs too.  During the same period, several U.S. States, such as New York, implemented local bans.  In its report in 2020, the WHO said that 58 countries had introduced laws that will protect 3.2 billion people from TFAs by the end of 2021.  But more than 100 countries still needed to take action. Last year, 11 of the 15 countries that account for two-thirds of deaths linked to trans fats still needed to act. These were Azerbaijan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Ecuador, Egypt, India, Iran, Mexico, Nepal, Pakistan, Republic of Korea. In India, action against trans fats coincided with the setting up of the FSSAI. Though it came into existence in 2006, civil society organisations say that its functioning picked up by 2011-12.  It was in 2011 that it imposed a cap of 10% on trans fats in oils and fats in India, which was further revised to 5% in 2015. Civil society organisations in India are pushing for a cap of 3% for 2021 and 2% for 2022 to be imposed not just on trans fats in oils and fats, but in “all” foods.  About FSSAI Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is an autonomous statutory body established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 (FSS Act). The Act aims to establish a single reference point for all matters relating to food safety and standards, by moving from multi- level, multi-departmental control to a single line of command. FSSAI works under the overall guidance of Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. The FSSAI comprises of a Chairperson and twenty two members out of which one – third are to be women. The Chairperson of FSSAI is appointed by the Central Government. The Food Authority is assisted by Scientific Committees and Panels in setting standards and the Central Advisory Committee in coordinating with enforcement agencies. The primary responsibility for enforcement is largely with the State Food Safety Commissioners. Landmark cases with FSSAI: Nestle India Limited Maggi Case: The maggi noodles were reported with excess lead unfit for human consumption and FSSAI prescribed for ban. Cadbury India: It was reported that worms was found in Cadbury's Dairy Milk. The FSSAI declared packaging was not proper or airtight and made it mandatory to change the packaging. Challenges and Shortcomings of FSSAI Large Exemption: The “petty manufacturers, retailers and hawkers” are exempted from FSSAI ambit. These segments greatly contributes to unorganised food sector and due to its low prices, most of the population prefer food consumption from these segments. Inadequate infrastructure: Many states don’t have sufficient food testing laboratories. There are only 87 National Accreditation Board for testing and calibration Laboratories (NABL) accredited Labs, where as there are more than 1500 private labs in India. Shortage of Human Resources: Shortage of qualified manpower and functional food testing equipment in state food laboratories and referral laboratories resulted in deficient testing of food samples. Also, there is an acute shortage of licensing and enforcement officers in the states which severely affected food safety measures. Improper functioning: The body has been only prescriptive in nature and failed to ensure safety, quality and hygiene in food industry.  Also, there are no standard practices for food inspection, the process being mostly discretionary. Moreover, the list of FSSAI regulated items is not regularly reviewed. Bureaucratic Hindrances: FSSAI is highly underfunded to monitor the widening ambit of food laws. Cumbersome and lengthy approval procedures have delayed the pre-launch approvals for products from the FSSAI for over a year. Differences of opinion between the food regulator and the food processing ministry also handicap the FSSAI functioning. Federal Issues: Regulations are made by FSSAI in accordance with international norms & trends, but the challenge lies in implementation which is a State subject. Instances of Irregularities: The CAG has found that "licenses were issued on the basis of incomplete documents in more than 50 per cent of cases, checked in Audit". Conclusion: The FSSAI will need to pursue local governments to improve surveillance, inspection of food premises, sampling of food products, regular training of officers, upgradation of food labs, etc.,  (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 Bodo tribe belongs to which of the following state of India? Assam Meghalaya Jharkhand Manipur Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding green bond: It typically come with tax incentives to enhance their attractiveness to investors. The first official green bond was issues by United Nations Environment Programme in 2009. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 25th January 2021 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 A 3 D Must Read On Nepal’s Political Crisis: The Hindu On US President Biden rejoining Paris Accord: The Hindu About how China controlled its domestic narrative in 2020 about COVID-19 Pandemic: The Indian Express