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IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 24th October 2020

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Repeal of UAPA demanded Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Policies and interventions In news Major Opposition parties have demanded the repeal of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. This came after the arrest of Stan Swamy, a tribal rights activist, in the Bhima Koregaon case. Important value additions  Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967 UAPA was passed in 1967.  It aims at effective prevention of unlawful activities associations in India. The Act assigns absolute power to the central government. If the Centre deems an activity as unlawful then it may declare it so. It has death penalty and life imprisonment as highest punishments. Under UAPA, both Indian and foreign nationals can be charged.  It will be applicable to the offenders in the same manner, even if crime is committed on a foreign land, outside India. The 2004 amendment added terrorist act to the list of offences to ban organisations for terrorist activities, under which 34 outfits were banned. Do you know?  In August 2019, Parliament cleared the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Amendment Bill, 2019 to designate individuals as terrorists if the individual commits or participates in acts of terrorism, prepares for terrorism, promotes terrorism or is otherwise involved in terrorism. The Act empowers the Director General of National Investigation Agency (NIA) to grant approval of seizure or attachment of property when the case is investigated by the said agency. Mobile Application for Geo Tagging launched by Ministry of Jal Shakti Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – E-governance; Policies and interventions In news A mobile application for geo-tagging of the components of projects under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) was recently launched. . Ministry: Ministry of Jal Shakti Developed By: Bhaskaracharya National Institute of Space Applications & Geo-informatics (BISAG-N). Key takeaways  Objective: To track the pace of work and actual status of the projects. The mobile application can be used to capture the image of the project component along with other details.  The captured information can be submitted by the user for geo-tagging on the geographic information system (GIS) portal.  It can be operated in both online & offline mode. Important value additions  Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)  PMKSY is a centrally sponsored scheme Launched in: 2015  Motto: Har Khet Ko Paani Objectives: (1) To expand cultivated areas with assured irrigation, reduce wastage of water and improve water use efficiency; (2) To create protective irrigation by harnessing rainwater at micro level; (3) To enhance recharge of aquifers  Do you know?  Geo-tagging is the process of adding geographical identification data to various media such as websites, SMS messages, QR Codes. This data usually consists of latitude and longitude coordinates, altitude, accuracy data, etc.  A GIS is a framework for gathering, managing, and analyzing geography related data. UDAN Day observed  Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II –Policies and interventions & GS-III – infrastructure In news Recently, 4th anniversary of the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik) Scheme was observed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation Important value additions  Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN)  It was launched as a regional connectivity scheme (RCS) in 2016 Ministry: Ministry of Civil Aviation. Aim: (1) To develop the regional aviation market; (2) To provide affordable and profitable air travel on regional routes to the common man. It envisages providing connectivity to un-served and under-served airports of the country through the revival of existing airstrips and airports. Implemented by: Airports Authority of India (AAI) and is operational for a period of 10 years. COVIRAP: A Quick Covid-19 Test approved by ICMR Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III - Scientific innovation and discoveries In news Recently, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has approved a new Covid-19 diagnostic method named COVIRAP.  Developed by: Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur Key takeaways  Benefit of COVIRAP Process: (1) It is a cheaper process; (2) The test is completed within an hour; (3) Simpler to Handle; (4) Reusable; (5) Efficient; (6) High Accuracy It can also be used in influenza, malaria, dengue, Japanese encephalitis, TB etc, which are under the category of isothermal nucleic acid-based tests. India Invited to Join the Blue Dot Network Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II - International relations In news A group of the US Senators has asked India to join the Blue Dot Network (BDN) in a letter.  Important value additions Blue Dot Network The BDN was announced in 2019 at the Indo-Pacific Business Forum in Bangkok, Thailand.  It is led by the USA along with Japan and Australia. It is a multi-stakeholder initiative to bring together governments, the private sector and civil society to promote high-quality, trusted standards for global infrastructure development. It is expected to serve as a globally recognized evaluation and certification system for roads, ports and bridges with a focus on the Indo-Pacific region. It does not offer public funds or loans for the project. Blue Dot certification shall serve as a globally recognized seal of approval for major infrastructure projects.  Life in Miniature Project launched Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I – Art & Culture In news "Life in Miniature" project was recently launched  Ministry: Ministry for Culture and Tourism  It is collaboration between the National Museum, New Delhi, Ministry of Culture, and Google Arts & Culture. Key takeaways  Under the project, several miniature paintings from the National Museum, New Delhi can be viewed online on Google Arts & Culture by people around the world.  The project uses technologies like machine learning, augmented reality and digitization with high-definition robotic cameras, to showcase the paintings.  Base year for CPI-Industrial Workers (CPI-IW) revised Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Economy In news The labour ministry has revised the base year of the Consumer Price Index-Industrial Workers (CPI-IW) from 2001 to 2016.  It has given more weight to spending on housing, education and health in inflation index calculation. Key takeaways  The revision in base year will reflect changing consumption pattern of the working-class population over the years. Following the change in base year, the index will give 39% weight to food and beverage consumption of workers now as against 46.2% earlier.  In contrast, spending on housing will get almost 17% weight compared to 15.2% earlier. Important value additions  CPI-Industrial Workers (CPI-IW)  It is used as a benchmark for calculating dearness allowance for government employees, dearness relief for pensioners and wages for industrial workers in some sectors. Though it may not impact the salary of industrial workers and DA of government staff immediately, it will have a cascading impact on salary, DA and DR of workers, and pensioners. G-20 Anti-Corruption Working Group Meeting Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – International Relations In news Recently, Saudi Arabia hosted the first-ever Ministerial Meeting of the G-20 Anti-Corruption Working Group (ACWG) virtually. Currently, Saudi Arabia holds the presidency of G-20.  It is the first Arab nation to do so. Important value additions  G-20 Anti-Corruption Working Group It was established in June 2010 at the Toronto Summit of G-20.  The year 2020 marks its 10th anniversary. Objective: To prepare comprehensive recommendations on how the G20 could continue to make practical and valuable contributions to international efforts to combat corruption. It actively works with the World Bank Group, the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), and other important Organisations G-20 It is an informal group of 19 countries and the European Union (EU), with representatives of the IMF and the World Bank. The G20 membership comprises a mix of the world’s largest advanced and emerging economies.  It represents about two-thirds of the world’s population, 85% of global GDP, 80% of global investment and over 75% of global trade. The G20 operates as a forum and not as an organisation. Therefore, it does not have any permanent secretariat or headquarter. Members: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the UK, the USA, and the EU. One nation holds the chair every year, known as the 'G20 Presidency'. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL/ GOVERNANCE Topic: General Studies 1,2: Contemporary World History (UN) Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. India’s UN journey Context: The 75th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations (UN) is an opportunity to look at the major trends, patterns and future challenges as far as India is concerned. India’s Membership at UN during three phases Seven and a half decades of India at the UN may be viewed with reference to roughly three distinct phases.  First phase until the end of the Cold War in 1989 Moderating Force: India had learnt the ropes of exploring and enhancing its diplomatic influence as a moderating force in easing armed conflicts in Asia and Africa by disentangling them from the superpower rivalry (Non-Aligned Movement) Unresolved Kashmir Dispute: The Indian leadership learned the hard way that the UN could not be relied upon to impartially resolve vital security disputes such as Jammu and Kashmir (US reliance on Pakistan in its Afghanistan war) Moral Values based Foreign Policy: India strove to utilise the UN only to focus on common causes such as anti-colonialism, anti-racism, nuclear disarmament, environment conservation and equitable economic development. Championed Nuclear Disarmament:  India, in a clever way, seemed to claim the moral high ground by proposing, in 1988, a bold, but obviously impractical, three-phase plan to eliminate nuclear weapons from the surface of earth. Impact of 1962 war: India resisted attempts by neighbouring countries to raise bilateral problems. A loss of face for India in the 1962 border war against China meant a definitive redesign of the country’s diplomatic style to privilege bilateral contacts over the third party role by the UN. Decade of 1990s: Turbulent and Transition Phase Sudden Changes: The years were marked by the sudden end of the Cold War, the disintegration of the Soviet Union and the resultant emergence of the United States as the unrivalled power in world politics.  Domestic Factors hindered active role at UN: The uncertain political climate caused by unstable coalition governments along with the balance of payments crisis constrained the country’s capability to be active in UN. Pragmatic Foreign policy: To cite a few examples, India showed pragmatism in enabling the toughest terms on Iraq even after eviction from occupied Kuwait, or in reversing the hitherto stated position on Zionism as racism.  Internationalisation of Kashmir Issue: Growing militancy in Kashmir in the early 1990s emboldened Pakistan to internationalise the dispute with accusations about gross human rights violations by India. Clearly, India had to work hard to seek favours from Iran and China in the Human Rights Commission to checkmate Pakistan. India stood against major powers to safeguard its security interest: India resolutely stood against indefinite extension of the Non-Proliferation Treaty in 1995, and it stoutly rejected the backdoor introduction for adoption of the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty in 1996.  Emerged as Nuclear Power: The growing power politics in World pushed India to surprise the world in 1998 with its Pokhran nuclear weapon tests, ignoring the likely adverse reaction from the nuclear club. The Third phase with onset of 21st Century Economics Enhanced India’s Profile: The impressive economic performance in the first decade, thanks to economic liberalisation and globalisation policies, helped a great deal in strengthening India’s profile. This was aided by its reliable and substantial troop contributions to several peacekeeping operations of UN Responsible Stakeholder: India has emerged as a responsible stakeholder in non-traditional security issue areas such as the spread of small and light weapons, the threat of non-state actors acquiring weapons of mass destruction, and the impact of climate change.  India’s growing popularity: This is evident in the successful electoral contests for various prestigious slots in the UNSC, the Human Rights Council, the World Court, and functional commissions of the Economic and Social Council, at times defeating the nominees of China and the United Kingdom.  Two major initiatives of India stuck: The first relates to the draft Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism it drafted and revised with the hope of helping consensus. The other is the question of equitable expansion of the UNSC to enable India to acquire Permanent position at UNSC What are the prospects of Permanent Seat at UNSC? India has been lobbying with world powers to attain permanent membership along with other claimants from Asia, Africa and Latin America.  The move has been stuck for more than 25 years because of a lack of unity among the regional formations.  It also includes stout opposition from some 30 middle powers such as Italy and Pakistan which fear losing out to regional rivals in the event of an addition of permanent seats. Although India enjoys by far the greatest support, the only realistic possibility seems to settle for a compromise, i.e. a new category of members elected for a longer duration than the present non-permanent members without veto power. Challenges for India at UN – Increased Volatility Unabated economic slowdown  Trump administration’s disdain towards multilateral institutions The changing U.S.-China equation China’s growing political isolation on account of the spread of the novel coronavirus China’s aggressive territorial forays in eastern Ladakh and the South China Sea. Way Ahead India will soon begin its two-year term as a non-permanent UNSC member (January 1, 2021). Its areas of priority will continue to be  Upholding of Charter principles Mounting effective punitive measures against those who support, finance and sponsor terrorists Striving for securing due say to the troop contributing countries in the management of peace operations.  Conclusion As a non-permanent UNSC member now, it needs to uphold the Charter principles in the backdrop of a turbulent world Connecting the dots: SAARCH and BIMSTEC RCEP and Why India did not join it? ECONOMY/ GOVERNANCE/ SCIENCE & TECH Topic: General Studies 3: Awareness in the fields of IT Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security US sues Google in biggest anti-trust case Context:  The United States Department of Justice (DoJ) has sued Google alleging that the company had abused its dominant position in a way that had harmed its competitors as well as customers.  What is the lawsuit about? Google has maintained its monopoly power through exclusionary practices that harm competition. So the Justice Department has determined that an antitrust response is necessary to benefit consumers. Antitrust refers to a group of businesses that team up or form a monopoly in order to dictate pricing in a particular market. Antitrust laws exist to promote competition among sellers, limit monopolies, and give consumers more options What led to the lawsuit? A US House of Representatives panel had submitted the report of a bipartisan investigation into the working of Amazon, Apple, Google and Facebook.  The probe had started in July 2019.  These companies have been on the radar of governments in many countries for being big spenders and trying to steamroll competition by either buying out their rivals or pushing vendors to avoid working with these rivals. The panel said each of these companies was now acting as a “gatekeeper” over a key channel of distribution, which meant that they had full control over what went on in their respective domains The report called for the big technology companies to be broken up and for a “presumptive prohibition against future mergers and acquisitions by the dominant platform”. Why is the lawsuit important? The lawsuit marks the first time there has been a bipartisan effort — involving both the Democratic and the Republican parties — to look into the monopolistic powers of Google. What is the Challenge for Google? Although the lawsuit by a US Federal body is the first of its kind, it is unlikely that there will be any swift action on the company in the near term The challenge for Google would be continued scrutiny into its biggest revenue generating segment, which is advertising gained from its search engine and affiliate websites. In the April-June quarter, the company had earned nearly $38 billion, mainly from advertisements. Apart from increased federal scrutiny, big tech companies are also likely to face more questions and probes from states in the US When was the last time Google faced legal action? The last time Google faced legal action for allegedly abusing its dominance in the search market was almost a decade ago — in 2011- when the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) was acting on a complaint filed by a Washington-based non-profit research agency, Electronic Privacy Information Center. Although the five commissioners eventually voted not to pursue a case, Google had to implement a strict user data security policy and agree to independent privacy audits for the next 20 years What are the allegations that Google faces in India? Over the last three years, Google has had multiple run-ins with the CCI (Competition Commission of India) for alleged abuse of its dominant position in the market. In 2019, CCI had held Google guilty of misuse of its dominant position in the mobile Android market and said the company had imposed “unfair conditions” on device manufacturers to prevent them from using other operating systems. In February 2018, the CCI had fined Google Rs 136 crore for unfair business practices in the online search market. It said that Google had “allocated disproportionate real estate” for its affiliates, to the disadvantage of other companies that were trying to gain market access. Google has challenged the CCI findings in forums such as the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal and the Supreme Court. What lies ahead for Google? Google may argue before the courts that it is being singled out from amongst the other companies, or try to explain why it does not really abuse its dominance in any market segments. In coming years, as India plans to regulate the use of personal and non-personal data, these tech companies could face scrutiny over how they manage and use the data they collect from users in India Amazon and Facebook, which are trying to enter the retail space in India, are also likely to be under the lens for the way they price their products and the space they give/deny to their competition Conclusion Free and Fair market is needed to balance the need for innovation and to protect the rights of people & society Connecting the dots: Should India also launch Joint Parliamentary committee to investigate whether these tech giants are indulging in anti-competitive trade practices in India? If these tech giants are broken up, would it impact the digital revolution which is witnessed around the globe and also in India? (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 statements regarding Unlawful Activities Prevention Act:  It includes punishment only against associations carrying out unlawful activities.  It is applicable to Indians only. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2 Consider the following statements regarding Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana:  It is a state sponsored scheme.  One of the objectives of the scheme is to enhance recharge of aquifers. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Consider the following statements link regarding UDAN (Uday Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme:  It is implemented by Ministry of Civil Aviation.  It is operational for a period of 50 years. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4 Consider the following statements regarding G20:  Every member of G20 holds the presidency for two years.  Its headquarter is in New York, USA. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 23rd October 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 B 2 B 3 A 4 D 5 A Must Read About states rejecting farm laws: The Hindu About On U.S. B-1 business visa curbs: The Hindu About factors that cause Delhi’s air quality to dip this time of the year: The Indian Express

RSTV Video

National Medical Commission – The Big Picture – RSTV IAS UPSC

National Medical Commission Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. In news: National Medical Commission (NMC) has come into being from 25 September and the six-decade-old Indian Medical Council Act 1956 has been repealed. All its bodies such as the Medical Council of India and Board of Governors, which superseded the MCI on September 26, 2018, have also been dissolved. The Composition: The Regulator is now ‘selected’ on merits, as opposed to an ‘elected’ Regulator. Dr S C Sharma (retd. Prof, ENT, AIIMS, Delhi) has been selected as the Chairperson for a period of three years.  Besides the Chairperson, NMC will have 10 ex-officio members and 22 part-time members appointed by the government. To ensure transparency, the members will have to declare their assets at the time of joining and demitting office, along with declaring their professional and commercial engagement or involvement.  Further, the chairperson/member on ceasing to hold office will not accept any employment for two years in a private medical institution whose matter has been dealt with him either directly or indirectly. There are four autonomous boards under the NMC Act The Under-Graduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB) The Post-Graduate Medical Education Board (PGMEB) The Medical Assessment and Rating Board The Ethics and Medical Registration Board.  Functions of the NMC  Framing policies for regulating medical institutions and medical professionals Assessing the requirements of healthcare related human resources and infrastructure Ensuring compliance by the State Medical Councils of the regulations made under the Bill Framing guidelines for determination of fees for up to 50 percent of the seats in private medical institutions and deemed universities which are regulated under the Bill. The NMC will frame policies and co-ordinate the activities of four autonomous boards.  Each autonomous board will consist of a president and four members, appointed by the central government. These boards are—Under-Graduate Medical Education Board (UGMEB), Post-Graduate Medical Education Board (PGMEB), Medical Assessment and Rating Board (MARB) and the Ethics and Medical Registration Board (EMRB). NEXT Under the NMC Act, the final year examination has been converted into a nationwide exit test called NEXT. This single examination will grant— a license to practice medicine an MBBS degree Entrance to postgraduate courses. There is a provision for common counselling for entrance to PG courses also. Students will be able to get admission to seats in all medical colleges and institutes of national importance like AIIMS, PGI Chandigarh and JIPMER through a single counselling process. The Act does not impose any restriction on the number of attempts at NEXT examination. Provides for the regulation of fees and all other charges in 50 percent seats in private colleges as well as deemed to be universities. Purpose of the Act - To provide for a medical education system that  Improves access to quality and affordable medical education,  Ensures availability of adequate and high quality medical professionals in all parts of the country Promotes equitable and universal healthcare that encourages community health perspective and makes the services of medical professionals accessible to all citizens Promotes national health goals Encourages medical professionals to adopt latest medical research in their work and to contribute to research Has an objective, periodic and transparent assessment of medical institutions and facilitates maintenance of a medical register for India Enforces high ethical standards in all aspects of medical services Is flexible to adapt to changing needs Has an effective grievance redressal mechanism What ails medical education in India? Corruption in medical education: Private hospitals charging a huge capitation fee and donation. Although there is a tremendous opportunity in the medical education space owing to the vast patient load and a diverse spectrum of diseases. The increase also leads to a dearth of quality healthcare professionals. Quality has dipped: Though the number of institutes has increased, the ones which offer quality medical education remains minuscule. The curricula have remained mainly outdated, despite tremendous changes happening in the healthcare sector. The medical education sector has become a more lucrative business linked to large profits than service to society. The mounting corruption, suicides related to cheating for admissions, high fee structure among private institutes and more notifies us about the highly unregulated business of medical education in the country. Lack of knowledgeable teachers: Even doctors completing their post-graduation from government medical colleges sign compulsory bonds which makes it very difficult for them to join medical colleges as faculties. Lack of motivation amongst young doctors to become medical teachers is another challenge. As a result, many faculty positions remain vacant in government and private medical colleges. The medical curriculum in India suffers from a lack of integration, maintaining traditional didactic teaching methods and limited support to research. Connecting the Dots: A seed grows with no sound, but a tree falls with huge noise. Destruction has noise, but creation is quiet. Discuss. The present status of medical education in India leaves a lot to be desired. Do you agree? 

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 24th Oct 2020

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. This is a part of our recently launched, NEW INITIATIVE IASbaba’s INTEGRATED REVISION PLAN (IRP) 2020 – Road Map for the next 100 Days! FREE INITIATIVE! We will make sure, in the next 4 months not a single day is wasted. All your energies are channelized in the right direction. Trust us! This will make a huge difference in your results this time, provided that you follow this plan sincerely every day without fail. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” To Know More about the Initiative -> CLICK HERE SCHEDULE/DETAILED PLAN – > CLICK HERE Important Note: Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :) After completing the 5 questions, click on 'View Questions' to check your score, time taken and solutions. To take the Test - Click Here

TLP Mains 2020

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2): UPSC Mains Answer Writing - ESSAY [24th OCTOBER,2020] – Day 12

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2): UPSC Mains Answer Writing - ESSAY [24th OCTOBER,2020] – Day 12   We will make sure, in the next 3 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. We are giving 5 Mains Questions on 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. National Education Policy, 2020: A potential game changer?  राष्ट्रीय शिक्षा नीति, 2020: एक संभावित गेम चेंजर? 2. Women participation in India’s labour force: Issues and challenges.  भारत की श्रम शक्ति में महिलाओं की भागीदारी: मुद्दे और चुनौतियाँ। 3. A gender-equal society would be one where the word 'gender' does not exist.  एक लिंग-समान समाज वह होगा जहाँ 'लिंग' शब्द मौजूद नहीं है। 4. Girl child education in India: Impediments and priorities.  भारत में बालिका शिक्षा: अवरोध और प्राथमिकताएँ। 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 :)

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 23rd October 2020

Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) US Justice Department sues Google in Antitrust Case  Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Technology; Internet  In news Recently, the US Justice Department sued Google.  It has accused the company of illegally abusing its dominance in internet search.  It has been harming competitors and consumers. Key takeaways  The action against the company comes after a report by the US House of Representatives panel.  The panel had found that Google, Facebook Inc, Apple Inc and Amazon.com Inc all abused their power as gatekeepers in the digital economy to diminish competitive threats. Google is illegally protecting its dominant position in the market for search and search advertising through the deals it has signed with tech companies. Google has contracts with smartphone makers that use its Android operating system. These require them to install its search engine as the default. All this stifles competition and innovation from smaller startups and harms consumers by reducing the quality of search and limiting privacy protections and alternative search options. Do you know?  Many countries have broad laws that protect consumers and regulate how companies operate their businesses. The goal of these laws is to provide an equal playing field. These are called antitrust laws. Also, various antitrust probes are going on against Google in India.  Google has had run-ins with regulators, especially the Competition Commission of India (CCI). Punjab becomes the first State to reject Farm Acts Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Policies and interventions; Federalism In news Recently, Punjab became the first State  to reject the Central government’s three Farm Acts.  It also passed three Bills to negate the Union laws. It also rejected the proposed Electricity Amendment Bill and demanded their immediate annulment. Key takeaways  Three farm Bills introduced by the Punjab assembly The Farmers Produce Trade and Commerce (Promotion and Facilitation) (Special Provisions and Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2020: (1) Seeks to ensure that sale or purchase of wheat or paddy in Punjab is not allowed below the Minimum Support Price (MSP); (2) Seeks to provide for punishment for harassment of farmers or payment of less price to the farmers. The Farmers (Empowerment and Protection) Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services (Special Provisions and Punjab Amendment Bill, 2020: (1) It provides for imprisonment of not less than three years and fines for sale-purchase of wheat or paddy under a farming agreement below the MSP. The Essential Commodities (Special Provisions and Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2020: (1) It prevents hoarding and black-marketing of agricultural produce; (2) Seeks to ensure status quo ante with regard to implementation of ‘The Essential Commodities (Amendment) Act, 2020’. The Punjab bills have reintroduced market fees or licences for private players outside the APMCs which the central law had abolished . The Assembly also introduced Code of Civil Procedure (Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2020. It seeks to exempt agricultural land not exceeding 2.5 acres from Section 60 of The Code of Civil Procedure, 1908, which provides for attachment of various properties.  It also seeks to exempt the Properties of the farmers such as cattle, implements, cowsheds, etc from attachment. China objects to official exchanges between India and Taiwan Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – International Relations In news Recently, China objected to any official exchanges between India and Taiwan. China also objected to India wishing Taiwan “Happy National Day” (October 10) and referring to it as a country.  China is also opposing inclusion of Australia in the upcoming Malabar naval exercise.  Important value additions  Taiwan - the Republic of China (ROC) It is an island off the southern coast of China that has been governed independently from mainland China since 1949. It is not a member of the United Nations and is the largest economy outside the UN. China views it as a province only.  It has its own democratically elected government Russia proposes to Extend New START Treaty Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – International Relations In news The Russian President has proposed to extend the New START (Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty) by one year.  It is a Treaty between the USA and Russia expiring in February 2021. Key takeaways  It is a treaty on measures for the further reduction and limitation of strategic offensive arms. It came into force on 5th February, 2011. It is a successor to the START framework of 1991 (at the end of the Cold War) that limited both sides to 1,600 strategic delivery vehicles and 6,000 warheads. It continues the process of verifiably reducing the USA and Russian strategic nuclear arsenals by limiting both sides to 700 strategic launchers and 1,550 warheads. It will expire in February 2021 unless extended for five more years. State of Global Air 2020 released by the Health Effects Institute Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Pollution  In news Recently, State of Global Air 2020 was released by the Health Effects Institute (HEI). HEI is an independent, nonprofit research institute funded jointly by the USA’s Environmental Protection Agency and others. Key takeaways  It highlights that air pollution is the largest risk factor for death among all health risks.  It is the first-ever comprehensive analysis of air pollution’s global impact on new-borns. India, Bangladesh, Pakistan and Nepal are among the top ten countries with the highest PM2.5 (particulate matter) exposures in 2019.  All these countries also experienced increases in outdoor PM2.5 levels between 2010 and 2019. India is also among the top ten countries with highest Ozone (O3) exposure in 2019.  Among the 20 most populous countries, India recorded the highest increase (17%) in O3 concentrations in the past ten years. Long-term exposure to outdoor and household (indoor) air pollution contributed to over 1.67 million annual deaths from stroke, heart attack, diabetes, lung cancer, chronic lung diseases, and neonatal diseases, in India in 2019. Do you know?  High PM contributed to the deaths of more than 1, 16, 000 Indian infants who did not survive their first month.  More than half of these deaths were associated with outdoor PM2.5 and others were linked to the use of solid fuels such as charcoal, wood, and animal dung for cooking. Government working on the formation of Integrated Theatre Command Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Defence; Security  In news The government is working on the formation of integrated theatre commands after the appointment of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). Key takeaways  An integrated theatre command envisions a unified command of the three Services, under a single commander, for geographical theatres (areas) that are of strategic and security concern. Such a commander will be able to bear all resources at his disposal with greater efficiency. The commander will not be answerable to individual Services. Integration of the three forces will also avoid duplication of resources.  The integration will strengthen cohesion in the defence establishment. Do you know?  The Shekatkar committee has recommended the creation of 3 integrated theatre commands — northern for the China border, western for the Pakistan border, and southern for the maritime role. Government expands Production-Linked Incentive Scheme Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Policies and interventions & GS-III - Industry  In news The government will extend the production-linked incentive (PLI) scheme to eight more sectors to boost domestic manufacturing. Key takeaways  All the sunrise and important sectors are proposed to be covered in this. The sectors may be automobile, networking products, food processing, advanced chemistry and solar PV manufacturing. Through PLI Scheme, incentives will be paid only if the manufacturers make the goods. This scheme will give cash incentives for five to seven years. Important value additions  PLI Scheme for Large Scale Electronics Manufacturing The scheme proposes a financial incentive to boost domestic manufacturing and attract large investments in the electronics value chain including electronic components and semiconductor packaging. Under the scheme, electronics manufacturing companies will get an incentive of 4 to 6% on incremental sales (over base year) of goods manufactured in India for a period of next 5 years. The scheme shall only be applicable for target segments - mobile phones and specified electronic components. With the help of the scheme, domestic value addition for mobile phones is expected to rise to 35-40% by 2025 from 20-25%.  It shall also generate 8 lakh jobs more, both direct and indirect. Do you know?  The government has launched the PLI scheme for mobile phones (electronic manufacturing) and it was also extended to pharma products and medical equipment sectors. Tubarial Salivary Glands: Potential new organ in the human throat Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III - Science and Technology  In news Scientists in the Netherlands have discovered a potential new organ in the human throat.  The discovery was made while carrying out research on prostate cancer. Researchers at the Netherlands Cancer Institute have identified a set of salivary glands deep in the upper part of the throat and have named them “tubarial salivary glands”. The discovery may be important for cancer treatment.  Till now, this nasopharynx region (behind the nose) was thought to host only microscopic, diffuse, salivary glands. However, the newly discovered glands are about 1.5 inches (3.9 centimeters) in length on average.  Location: These are located over a piece of cartilage called the torus tubarius. Function: The glands probably lubricate and moisten the upper throat behind the nose and mouth. Do you know?  Till now, there were three known large salivary glands in humans: one under the tongue, one under the jaw and one at the back of the jaw, behind the cheek. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL/ SECURITY Topic: General Studies 1,2: Contemporary World History Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests Greece- Turkey Clash Context: Greece (EU member) said it would be extending a wall along its border with Turkey (candidate for EU membership) to prevent potential mass crossings by migrants into its territory. Greece-Turkey Relations For centuries, Turkey and Greece have shared a chequered history.  In 1830, Greece won independence from modern Turkey’s precursor, the Ottoman Empire. In 1923, the two countries exchanged their Muslim and Christian populations – a migration whose scale has only been surpassed in history by the Partition of India. The two nations continue to oppose each other on the decades-old Cyprus conflict, and on two occasions have almost gone to war over exploration rights in the Aegean Sea. Both countries are, however, part of the 30-member NATO alliance Relations between the two nations have seen a marked downturn this year.  Issue of Migration Consequences of Syrian War: Since the beginning of the Syrian war in 2011, vast numbers of displaced Syrians have sought refuge in Turkey.  Refugee Crisis: According to the latest known figures, Turkey hosts some 37 lakh refugees from Syria, and is feeling the socio-economic and political strain of their presence in the country. Refugee Crisis spilling to EU: In 2015, the refugee crisis reached its peak as thousands drowned while attempting to cross over to the West using water routes. Around 10 lakh reached Greece and Italy. Deal with EU: In 2016, Turkey agreed to prevent migrants from crossing into the EU, and the bloc in return promised funds to help the former manage the refugees on its soil. Reneging on Deal: However, in February 2020, Turkey said it would not be honouring the 2016 agreement, asserting its inability to sustain another refugee wave. As a result, Turkey had allowed thousands of migrants to cross the border into Greece and the European Union, irking the latter Using deal as leverage: Turkey is criticised for using the migrant issue as a means to bring its western allies on board with its military campaign in Syria’s Idlib province, where hostilities had escalated in preceding weeks. Greece’s response: Greek government has said it would extend its already existing 10 km long wall with Turkey by an additional 26 km by the end of April 2021, spending EUR 63 million on the project. Eastern Mediterranean dispute For 40 years, Turkey and Greece have disagreed over rights to the Eastern Mediterranean and the Aegean Sea, which covers significant oil and gas deposits. Increasingly assertive under President Erdogan, Turkey in July 2020 announced that it would be exploring a disputed part of the sea for oil and gas.  Greece responded by placing its air force, navy and coastguard on high alert. After brief peace, Greece has once again started conducting seismic surveys near the Greek island of Kastellorizo. Greece considers the waters surrounding the island as its own and described Turkey’s actions as a “direct threat to peace in the region”. Greece Stand: A signatory of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), it maintains that its continental shelf should be calculated while considering its island territories in the Eastern Mediterranean. Turkey’s stand: Ankara, which has not signed UNCLOS, argues a nation’s continental shelf should be calculated from its mainland, and maintained that its activity was “fully within Turkish continental shelf” The Hagia Soophia row The Hagia Sophia was originally a cathedral in the Byzantine Empire before it was turned into a mosque in 1453, when Constantinople fell to Ottoman forces. In the 1930s, however, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, the founder of the Republic of Turkey, shut down the mosque and turned it into a museum in an attempt to make the country more secular. Many Greeks continue to revere the Hagia Sophia, and view it as a key part of Orthodox Christianity. President Erdogan of Turkey converted Hagia Sophia from a museum into a mosque which Greece called the site’s conversion an “affront to civilisation of the 21st century”. Implications of rising Greece-Turkey Tensions  Rising Nationalistic tendencies in both the countries which would run against the plans of integration of Turkey with EU Another war in the region, especially in the wake of pandemic, will further plunge the countries into recession and poverty. All this impacts the stability in the region which further puts strain on International Organisations tasked with maintaining peace in world. UN, whose credibility is already battered due to allegations of politicisation of institution, will be under immense pressure to prove its utility. Rule of law in international Politics will be challenged. India: The bilateral relation of India-Turkey will be further strained especially after Turkey has voiced its criticism on India’s abrogation of Article 370 and enactment of Citizenship Amendment Act. Conclusion All stakeholders in the region – US, EU, Russia, Iran, Syria – should try to help resolve the conflict at the earliest before it blows out of proportion INTERNATIONAL/ ECONOMY / GOVERNANCE Topic: General Studies 2: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. Reviving WTO Context:  The WTO is on the verge of getting fresh top leadership Challenges of WTO Backlash Against Globalisation: There is a backlash against globalisation, free trade and by extension, against international organisations such as WTO. New Negotiating positions by Nations: People who have lost out from technological disruption, globalisation or free trade have found an important voice and have started asserting themselves through political choices made in national elections (electing conservative parties/people to power). These changes are subsequently reflected in country negotiating positions in the WTO. Restoring Faith of common man: WTO has to demonstrate that it is on the side of the underdog i.e. it’s mission is to enhance the conditions of poor people and not further the agenda of corporates To build New Agenda: It is common knowledge that the Doha Round of trade negotiations has long been dead. The new task for WTO is to build a consensus around a new common work programme and a negotiating agenda. One solution to overcome above challenges is by announcing that the WTO’s future work programme and negotiating agenda will be based on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) so painstakingly agreed upon by all UN members in 2015. A new SDG round of trade negotiations has numerous advantages for the WTO. First, it is hard to disagree with the SDGs themselves since all countries have publicly committed themselves to achieving it within a definite time frame Second, it will be a splendid opportunity for the much-maligned WTO to get its mojo back and secure endorsement for the principle of free trade. After all, it is a matter of consensus among economists of all hues that trade is indeed the best instrument for achieving many of the SDGs. Third, the WTO’s future work programme and negotiating agenda must be directly linked to the objectives of the Marrakesh Agreement establishing the WTO, which talks of promoting sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth as well as full and productive employment and decent work for all. What Steps should WTO take in future? Recalibrating Special treatments The WTO must carefully recalibrate the Special and Differential Treatment for countries that deserve it. The two geographical regions which display “extreme poverty” are: parts of Africa and South Asia. It goes without saying therefore that countries belonging to these two geographical regions must get Special and Differential Treatment without any question. Extreme poverty is now well defined and is backed by the Oxford Multidimensional Index of Poverty, so objective criteria may be utilised for deciding countries which are eligible.  This automatically takes care of the American argument that countries such as Singapore and South Korea (or China for that matter) cannot lay automatic claim to Special and Differential Treatment. Conclude negotiations on Fisheries Subsidies The multilateral negotiations on Fisheries Subsidies is proceeding apace and must be concluded by the next Ministerial Conference in June 2021.  Again, these negotiations must be consistent with SDG-14 which is defined thus: Conserve and use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development.  Developing countries and least-developed countries whose citizens depend on fisheries for their livelihood must be treated appropriately in these negotiations. Correct Agriculture Subsidies Agriculture has always been a contentious subject in past WTO negotiations. SDG-2 provides sufficient guidance in this critical area: End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture.  The US, EU and other rich countries have long subsidised their agriculture, often with disastrous consequences for the economies of developing and least-developed countries. It is time to make amends. Electronic Commerce Electronic Commerce poses enormous challenges for developing and least-developed countries. These challenges have to do with digital infrastructure, digital literacy and data sovereignty.  The SDG-9 that talks of building resilient infrastructure, promotes inclusive and sustainable industrialisation and foster innovation, should guide these negotiations.  Developed countries need to take into account the serious digital divide that currently exists when they pursue their national interests in these negotiations. Conclusion The above is obviously not an exhaustive list but an illustrative one.  More crucially, it provides a template for the new round of trade negotiations and the work programme of the WTO by anchoring it in the all-important SDGs.  Such a move can kill two birds with one stone: to revive the negotiating agenda as well as to resuscitate the WTO itself. (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 statements regarding Taiwan:  It is a member of United Nations.  It has its own democratic elected government. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2 Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty is a treaty between which of the following countries?  Russia and India  USA and Russia  Japan and Russia  USA and Japan Q.3 State of Global Air 2020 was recently released. Consider the following statements regarding the same:  India is among the top 10 countries with the highest PM2.5 exposures in 2019. Among the 20 most populous countries, India recorded the lowest increase in Ozone concentrations in the past 10 years. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4 Which of the following sectors are covered under Production Linked Incentive Scheme? Mobile phones (electronic manufacturing)  Pharma products  Medical equipment  Sunrise sectors  Select the correct code  1 and 2 only  1 and 3 only  1 and 4 only  All of the above Q.5 A new organ was recently discovered in which of the following part of the human body? Throat  Stomach  Pancreas  Lungs ANSWERS FOR 22nd October 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 A 3 A Must Read About indigenously developed COVID-19 test kits: The Hindu About US-India 2+2 meeting: The Hindu About QUAD needing a definitive blueprint: The Indian Express

PIB

PRESS INFORMATION BUREAU (PIB) IAS UPSC – 12th October to 18th October – 2020

PRESS INFORMATION BUREAU (PIB) IAS UPSC – 12th October to 18th October – 2020 ARCHIVES GS-2 Announcement of measures of Rs 73,000 crore to stimulate consumer spending in the economy in an effort to fight the slowdown due to COVID-19 pandemic (Topic: Government schemes and policies to boost the economy) The understanding-  Indications are that savings of government and organised sector employees have increased and we want to incentivise such people to boost demand for the benefit of the less fortunate. If demand goes up based on the stimulus measures announced today, it will have an impact on those people who have been affected by COVID-19 and are desperately looking for demand to keep their business going. Today’s solution should not cause tomorrow’s problem. The Government does not want to burden the common citizen with future inflation and also not put the Government debt on an unsustainable path. The proposals presented by the Finance Minister are designed to stimulate spending in a fiscally prudent manner as some of the proposals are for advancing or front-loading of expenditure with offsetting changes later while others are directly linked to increase in GDP.  Consumer Spending Leave Travel Concession (LTC) Cash Voucher Scheme: The biggest incentive for employees to avail the LTC Cash Voucher Scheme is that in a four-year block ending in 2021, the LTC not availed will lapse, instead, this will encourage employees to avail of this facility to buy goods which can help their families. Special Festival Advance Scheme: A Special Festival Advance Scheme for non-gazetted employees, as well as for gazetted employees too, is being revived as a one-time measure to stimulate demand. Capital Expenditure Special Assistance to the States: Money spent on infrastructure and asset creation has a multiplier effect on the economy. It not only improves current GDP but also future GDP. The Government wants to give a new thrust to Capital Expenditure of both States and Centre. Enhanced Budget Provisions: Additional budget of Rs. 25,000 crore, in addition to Rs. 4.13 lakh crore given in Union Budget 2020, is being provided for Capital Expenditure on roads, defence, water supply, urban development and domestically produced capital equipment. NITI Aayog Announces Governing Structure of India Energy Modelling Forum (Topic: International organisations) India Energy Modelling Forum (IEMF)—jointly launched by NITI Aayog and United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the US–India Strategic Energy Partnership—on 2 July. Part of the Sustainable Growth pillar of the US–India Strategic Energy Partnership (SEP), IEMF aims to engage Indian researchers, knowledge partners, think tanks and national and international government agencies and departments for modelling and long-term energy planning. The governing structure of IEMF will consist of an inter-ministerial and a steering committee. The inter-ministerial committee will be convened by NITI Aayog and headed by its CEO, and comprise senior officials from the ministries of petroleum and natural gas; power; new and renewable energy; coal; environment, forest and climate change; and department of science and technology. This committee will review the studies/modelling activities and provide directions and new areas of research. The steering committee will shortlist policy issues to be taken up for study and might form various taskforces depending on the specific studies/modelling exercises to be carried out. India and the US have a long-standing collaboration on energy. The Sustainable Growth pillar, one of the four of the US–India SEP, is being chaired by NITI Aayog and USAID. This pillar brings together Indian and US researchers and decision-makers to collaborate in three focal areas: energy data management; energy modelling, and promotion of low carbon technologies. IEMF was launched under the area of energy modelling.  5th Meeting of the India-Mexico Bilateral High Level Group on Trade, Investment and Cooperation (Topic: India and other countries) Both sides discussed a number of bilateral ongoing and outstanding issues, ranging from Audio-visual Co-production, Bilateral Investment Treaty, market access for agricultural products, a cooperation framework on Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) & Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) measures between the two countries, co-operation in the Intellectual Property Rights, and exploring ways to promote tourism and people-to-people contact between India and Mexico. Two business to business MoUs were signed, to foster the cooperation in the respective domains.  A Memorandum of Understanding between the Electronics & Computer Software Export Promotion Council (ESC) of India and the Mexican Chamber of Electronics, Telecommunications and Information Technologies (CANIETI) was signed.  A Memorandum of Understanding between the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) and the Mexican Business Council of Foreign Trade, Investment and Technology (COMCE) for promoting the development of business relations between India and Mexico was also signed. They also agreed to expand and diversify the bilateral trade relationship to tap the potential of the complementarities between India and Mexico through enhanced cooperation in pharmaceuticals, medical equipment, healthcare, agro-products, fisheries, food processing and aerospace industry etc. A ‘Joint Statement’ after the successful conclusion of the meeting was issued. Cabinet approves Rs. 5718 crore World Bank aided project STARS (Topic International organization and India) The STARS project seeks to support the states in developing, implementing, evaluating and improving interventions with direct linkages to improved education outcomes and school to work transition strategies for improved labour market outcomes. The overall focus and components of the STARS project are aligned with the objectives of National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 of Quality Based Learning Outcomes. About the project Implementation of the Strengthening Teaching-Learning and Results for States (STARS) project with a total project cost of Rs 5718 crore with the financial support of World Bank amounting to US $ 500 million (approximately Rs. 3700 crore). STARS project would be implemented as a new Centrally Sponsored Scheme under Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Education. (MOE) Setting up and support to the National Assessment Centre, PARAKH as an independent and autonomous institution under Department of School Education and Literacy, MOE. The project covers 6 States namely Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Kerala and Odisha.  The Project envisions improving the overall monitoring and measurement activities in the Indian School Education System through interventions in selected states. The project shifts focus from the provision of inputs and maintaining of outputs to actual outcomes by linking the receipt and disbursement of funds to these outcomes.  The STARS Project has two major components:  1)  At the national level, the project envisages the following interventions which will benefit all states and UTs: To strengthen MOE’s national data systems to capture robust and authentic data on retention, transition and completion rates of students. To support MOE in improving states PGI scores by incentivizing states governance reform agenda through SIG (State Incentive Grants). To support the strengthening of learning assessment systems. To support MOE’s efforts, establish a National Assessment Center (PARAKH) - to leverage the experiences of states selected for the operation by collecting, curating and sharing these experiences with other states through online portals (e.g. Shagun and DIKSHA), social and other media engagement, technical workshops, state visits and conferences. Further, the STARS project includes a Contingency Emergency Response Component (CERC) under the National Component which would enable it to be more responsive to any natural, man-made and health disasters. It will help the government respond to situations leading to loss of learning such as school closures/infrastructure damage, inadequate facilities and use technology for facilitating remote learning etc.  The CERC component would facilitate the rapid re-categorization of financing and the utilization of streamlined financing request procedures. 2) At the State level, the project envisages: Strengthening Early Childhood Education and Foundational Learning Improving Learning Assessment Systems Strengthening classroom instruction and remediation through teacher development and school leadership Governance and Decentralized Management for Improved Service Delivery. Strengthening Vocational education in schools through mainstreaming, career guidance and counselling, internships and coverage of out of school children The STARS project also aims to focus on initiatives of PM e-Vidya, Foundational Literacy and Numeracy Mission and National Curricular and Pedagogical Framework for Early Childhood Care and Education as part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan. Some of the measurable outcomes of the project are - Increase in students achieving minimum proficiency in grade 3 language in selected states, Improvement in secondary school completion rate,  Improvement in governance index scores,  Strengthened learning assessment systems,  Partnerships developed to facilitate cross-learning between states Improvement in the State level service delivery such as Strengthening planning and management capacities for decentralized management by training of BRCs and CRCs, Strengthened school management by training of Head Teachers and Principals for improved education service delivery. Prelims-oriented News Prime Minister of New Zealand: Jacinda Ardern  Zozila Tunnel – the longest tunnel road in Asia 13th October: Philately Day; marks the collection, appreciation and research activities on stamps and other philatelic products. Philately is the study of postage stamps and postal history. 15th October: Mahila Kisan Diwas Kamdhenu Deepawali Abhiyan - Promoting extensive use of cow-dung/ Panchgavya products this Diwali Festival SLINEX-20: Indian Navy – Sri Lanka Navy Maritime Exercise BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile Successfully Test Fired BrahMos, the supersonic cruise missile was successfully test fired, hitting a target in the Arabian Sea. The missile hit the target successfully with pin-point accuracy after performing high-level and extremely complex manoeuvres. BrahMos as ‘prime strike weapon’ will ensure the warship’s invincibility by engaging naval surface targets at long ranges, thus making the destroyer another lethal platform of Indian Navy. The highly versatile BrahMos has been jointly designed, developed and produced by India and Russia. In the last few weeks, India has test fired a number of missiles including a new version of the surface-to-surface supersonic cruise missile BrahMos and anti-radiation missile Rudram-1. The original 290-km range BrahMos has already been deployed in Ladakh as well as Arunachal Pradesh during the ongoing military confrontation with China. Exercise Suraksha Kavach- Joint Anti-Terrorist Exercise By Army and Maharashtra Police The aim of the exercise was to harmonize the drills and procedures of both Army and Police for activating anti-terrorist Quick Reaction Teams (QRTs) to counter any terrorist actions in Pune. Launch of 'KAPILA' Kalam Program for Intellectual Property Literacy and Awareness campaign: On the 89th birth anniversary of former President and Scientist Late Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam India has a proud history of Nalanda and Takshila Universities so we already had the intellectual property inherited within our culture. India has to again lead the world as Vishwaguru in the field of patents For India to become a $5 trillion economy, we have to be more aware of protecting intellectual property. Buldhana Pattern of water conservation gets national recognition NITI Ayog is formulating National Policy on water conversation under ‘Buldhana Pattern’ Synchronization of national highway construction and water conservation was achieved for the first time in Buldhana district, by using soil from the water bodies, nallas and rivers. This consequently lead to the increase in capacity of water storage across the water-bodies in Buldana district and it came to be known as 'Buldhana Pattern'. ‘Tamswada Pattern’ of water conservation project taken up in Nagpur and Wardha district  in which rain water harvesting, conservation and groundwater recharge works were done in order to increase the water storage capacity of natural water bodies  situated in these two districts of Eastern Vidarbha. Aquaponics – Type of Agriculture: An emerging technique in which both fishes as well as the plants are grown in an integrated manner. The fish waste provides fertilizer for growing plants. The plants absorb nutrients and filter the water. This filtered water is used to replenish the fish tank.  This is an environment friendly technique. Help the farmer in increasing the productivity of his land and also augment his income Nirbadh initiative of EPFO: To further enhance ease of living experience for its members, EPFO has recently launched WhatsApp based helpline-cum-grievance redressal mechanism, under its series of Nirbadh initiatives aimed at ensuring seamless and un-interrupted service delivery to subscribers during COVID-19 pandemic. Dust can reduce the effect of nuclear weapons: Dr Meera Chadha from Netaji Subhas Institute of Technology, New Delhi - Her recent study published in the ‘Proceedings of Royal Society A, London’ illustrates the reduction in energy released and damage radius from an intense explosion (nuclear explosion in particular) by introduction of dust particles. She has shown how the blast waves from the explosion decayed in the process. 7th Justice Ministers' Meeting of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO): To be hosted by Union Law Minister Shri Ravi Shankar Prasad To deliberate on areas of cooperation Creating favourable conditions for resolving disputes Implementation of the Action Plan of the Working Groups of Experts on Forensic Activities and Legal Service ADB, India sign $270 million loan to develop water supply and integrated storm water and sewage management infrastructure and strengthen capacities of urban local bodies (ULBs) for improved service delivery in the state of Madhya Pradesh. $300 Million Loan to Develop Rajasthan’s Secondary Towns - to finance inclusive and sustainable water supply, sanitation infrastructure and services, and strengthen the institutional capacity of the local governments Cabinet approves MoU between India and Australia: For collaboration in capacity building, research and development and making impact for sustainable groundwater management National Supercomputing Mission has been set up  to provide necessary computational power to the Academia, Industry, Scientific and Research Community, MSME and the Start-ups to solve India specific grand challenges and complex real life problems in Science and Engineering. India set to achieve self-reliance in supercomputing with manufacturing critical components in India C-DAC and National Supercomputing Mission Host Institutes sign MOU for establishing Supercomputing Infrastructure in various premier institutions across India C-DAC accelerating pace of research and innovation using computational science techniques with manufacturing Critical Supercomputing components in India, is a step towards Atmanirbhar Bharat India designated Vice-Chair of OECD Working Group on Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) is a quality system, which has been evolved by Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to ensure that safety data generated on various chemicals like industrial chemicals, pharmaceuticals (Human and Veterinary), agrochemicals, cosmetic products, food/ feed additives, and medical devices, etc., can be relied upon by regulatory authorities. The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, established the National GLP Compliance Monitoring Authority (NGCMA) with the approval of the Union Cabinet on April 24, 2002. NGCMA is the National body which grants GLP certification to test facilities (TFs) conducting safety studies on new chemicals of the above-mentioned categories in accordance with OECD Principles of GLP and OECD Council norms. The Grant of the first GLP certificate by NGCMA in 2004 was a milestone. The non-hazardous nature of chemicals needs to be established through studies and data, which is examined by the regulators of the concerned countries to certify that the use of these chemicals does not pose any hazards to human health and the environment. On March 3, 2011, India became full adherent to the Mutual Acceptance of Data (MAD) in the OECD, which was a historical event. The MAD status has given global recognition to India’s non-clinical safety data by tremendously augmenting its credibility and acceptability across the globe. This has not only boosted the confidence of Indian GLP TFs but also led to removal of technical barriers to trade. Haryana Government comes up with an innovative solution for Water testing; Launches State of the Art Mobile Water Testing Laboratory Van The supply of clean and safe water is essential for public health therefore, ensuring supply of water along with regular testing is imperative. The Jal Jeevan Mission of the Ministry of Jal Shakti aims to provide tap water connection to every rural home by 2024. The work under this mission is being done on war footing and the mission gives a lot of emphasis on water quality surveillance and monitoring. Govt. of Haryana has launched a State of the Art Mobile Water Testing Laboratory Van, fully equipped with multi-parameter system containing analyzers/ sensor/ probes/ instruments meant for water testing. Water Quality in State of Haryana is mainly affected by constituents like total dissolved solids (TDS), Fluoride, nitrate, iron and alkalinity. GPS enabled for location tracking and the analyzed sample data can be transmitted to a centralized PHED server via GPRS/ 3G connectivity with power backup.  It also provides On-site recording and reporting of results through a smart phone or similar device with the ability to send results direct to a web based secure central server.  This mobile van also has a fully automated sensor-based analysis controlled by centrally commanded software.  The LED display unit in the mobile lab gives an instant display of the results immediately after analysis. PM to release commemorative coin of Rs 75 denomination to mark the 75th Anniversary of FAO India and FAO: The journey of FAO in making the vulnerable classes and masses stronger, economically and nutritionally, has been unparalleled. India has had a historic association with FAO.  Indian Civil Service Officer Dr. Binay Ranjan Sen was the Director General of FAO during 1956-1967. The World Food Programme, which has won the Nobel Peace Prize 2020, was established during his time.  India’s proposals for the International Year of Pulses in 2016 and the International Year of Millets 2023 have also been endorsed by FAO. Combating malnutrition India has rolled out an ambitious POSHAN Abhiyaan targeting over 100 million people with the aim to reduce stunting, undernutrition, anaemia, and low birth weight. Malnutrition is a global problem with two billion people suffering from micronutrient deficiency. Nearly 45% of deaths among children are linked to malnutrition. Appropriately, it is one of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals of the UN.  Aligning with the international priority, the development of nutritionally rich varieties of crops with elevated levels of micronutrients iron, zinc, calcium, total protein, quality of protein with high lysine and tryptophan, anthocyanin, provitamin A, and oleic acid, and reduced level of anti-nutritional factors etc. has been accorded top priority by the government. The National Agricultural Research System under the leadership of Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) developed 53 such varieties during the last five years.  There was only one biofortified variety developed prior to 2014.  Transforming Indian thali into nutri-thali The 17 recently developed biofortified varieties of 8 crops to be dedicated to the nation by the Prime Minister will have up to 3.0-fold increase in nutritional value.  These varieties, along with other food ingredients, will transform the normal Indian thali into nutri-thali. These varieties have been developed by utilizing the local landraces and farmer’s varieties. The high zinc rice has been developed from landraces of Assam rice collected from Garo hills and those of finger millets from Gujarat collections of Dang district. ICAR has started Nutri-Sensitive Agricultural Resources and Innovations (NARI) programme for promoting family farming linking agriculture to nutrition, nutri-smart villages for enhancing nutritional security and location specific nutrition garden models are being developed and promoted by KVKs to ensure access to locally available, healthy and diversified diet with adequate macro and micronutrients. The production of bio-fortified crop varieties will be upscaled and linked with government programmes of mid-day meal, Anganwadi etc. to reduce malnutrition and make India Kuposhan Mukta through naturally enriched food ingredients. This will also usher in higher income of farmers and will open new avenues of entrepreneurship development. India and France re-elected as President and Co- President of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) at the third assembly of the ISA New wheat variety helping farmers in a village in Maharashtra double their yield: MACS 6478; The newly developed common wheat or bread wheat, also called high yielding Aestivum, matures in 110 days and is resistant to most races of leaf and stem rust Hydrogen Fuel Hydrogen does not occur free in nature in useful quantities. It can be made from natural gas or it can be made by passing electric current through water. When hydrogen is burned, it only emits water vapour and carbon dioxide (CO2) is not produced.  It is more efficient than internal combustion engine.  However, manufacturing hydrogen fuel based vehicle is still expensive. Dr. Ram Manohar Lohia An activist for the Indian independence movement and a socialist political leader One of the founders of the Congress Socialist Party and editor of its mouthpiece Congress Socialist Wrote his PhD thesis paper on the topic of Salt Taxation in India, focusing on Gandhi’s socio-economic theory. Also wrote - ‘Marx, Gandhi and Socialism’, ‘Guilty Men of India’s Partition’, etc.

TLP Mains 2020

SYNOPSIS [22nd OCTOBER,2020] Day 10: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies)

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE SYNOPSIS [22nd OCTOBER,2020] Day 10: IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2): UPSC Mains Answer Writing (General Studies) 1. Do you think industrial pressure groups enjoy higher clout and influence in India’s polity than their agricultural counterparts? Critically examine. Approach: As the directive here is "Critically Examine" here candidate is expected to examine both sides of an issue and come to a balanced conclusion. The issue here is whether 'industrial pressure groups enjoy higher clout and influence in India's polity than their agricultural counterparts or not'. One can start by simply defining what are pressure groups and mentioning their impact on Indian polity in brief.  To address this, in the first half of the answer candidate has to present  arguments to show influence of industrial pressure groups in Indian polity, while in the second half of the answer present arguments to show influence of agricultural pressure groups in Indian polity. To add  more value to your answer, arguments should be substantiated by examples. Also adding success stories of such pressure groups influence will help to fetch more marks. While concluding one can show the important place hold by Pressure groups in Indian polity and impact of their continual influence  in Indian polity in brief. Introduction: A pressure group is a group of people who are organised actively for promoting and defending their common interest. It is called so, as it attempts to bring a change in public policy by exerting pressure on the government. Both kind of pressure groups i.e. industrial as well as agricultural, influence Indian polity in one way or other, however their gravity of impact changes from one aspect to other in following ways. Body: Higher clout and influence in India’s polity enjoyed by industrial pressure groups: Industrial pressure groups comes under the category of Associational Interest Groups, these are organised specialised groups formed for interest articulation, but to pursue limited goals. Trade unions, organisations of businessmen and industrialists comes under the umbrella of Industrial pressure groups. Some examples of Industrial pressure Groups in India are Bengal Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Indian Chamber of Commerce, Trade Unions such as AITUC (All India Trade Union Congress). The role of Indian industrial groups in Indian polity is important in two distinct ways. First, it increases the representative power of business in a prominent institution hence influences policy making. For instance, recent controversy where recommendation of the parliamentary health committee not to display a warning covering 85 percent of tobacco products. Second, many laws are shaped by influence of industrial pressure groups. For instance, there has been a gradual tilt towards business in the formation of economic policy in India, starting from the latter period of 1980's further accentuated by the economic liberalization of 1991, and into the present day. Here, it is evident that industrial pressure groups influence Indian polity to a larger extent by influencing policy making. Their influence is also noteworthy due to the fact of funding for political parties, and their respective interests. It's in this aspect agricultural pressure groups lack, due to low amount of funding for agricultural groups itself. For instance, consistent demands of agricultural pressure groups for the revision of MSP and wider crop insurance coverage. Industrial pressure groups not only influence Indian polity on the higher echelons, but at lower echelons too. For instance, trade unions work at the grassroots level for the demands of labourers. As evident in Pre-independence era when Mahatma Gandhi led Ahmedabad Mill workers Satyagraha and recent two-day nationwide strike call was a success with 20 crore workers, from both the organised and the unorganised sectors across banking, insurance, roads, railways, postal and medical services participated in the 'Bharat Band', alleged that the government failed to create jobs and grossly ignored unions' 12-point charter of demands besides aggressively pushing for fixed-term employment and amendment to the Trade Union Act, all of which is against the interest of the workers. With the gains made in mass media and education level, there are various experts and members of these industrial organizations who constantly raise their issues and opinions through media, social media and interviews. Through this, they have tried to influence public opinions. The efforts made by industrial groups is evident in time to time changes made by government in the respective industry related policies such as changing work hours of workers, easing tax norms, facilitating tax benefits and so on. Here, it is evident that industrial pressure groups influence Indian polity at the higher as well as lower echelons of economy thereby pushing for broader reforms as compared to their agricultural counterparts. Higher clout and influence in India’s polity enjoyed by agricultural pressure groups: Agricultural Pressure groups (APG) are among the most important and potentially legitimate actors that can promote pro-poor agricultural development. APG in the farmers’ interests occupies the domain between the state and the marketplace. Prominent farmers organization are All India Kisan Sabha, BharatiyaKisan Union, Hind Kisan Panchayat, etc. The rise of peasants groups in India has been mainly due to abolition of Zamindari System, implementation of Panchayati Raj, land reform measures, Green Revolution Movement. They gained power since the 1960s. Their demands relate to procurement prices of agricultural products, fertiliser subsidy, tenancy rights, electricity charges, etc. The farmers’ organizations influence Indian polity by offering support to the political parties during the election time and sometimes even during the non-election times. They control the parties through this voting-in-a-bloc mechanism. Another method is staging a protest at the state and national level. This is mainly done on a large scale basis. For instance, recent protests by farmers organisation to oppose the newly passed three farm sector related laws. In recent times, the long march of farmers to prominent cities for their demands has become an active medium of voicing their issues. Recently, Mumbai was gheraoed by hundreds of thousands of peasants comprising various agrarian outfits. The overall impact has been tremendous for landless labourers and tillers of the soil. Not only the farmers’ organizations succeeded in many places increasing the wage rates for agriculture labourers and securing a due share for poor peasants. Pressure has been exerted by organized agrarian lobbies to persuade the government to improve the socio-economic position of the farmers. Hence varied land reforms measures have been adopted since independence. Major reforms due to the intervention of these farmers’ bodies include the abolition of Zamindari system, tenancy, reforms, ceiling of land holdings, setting up of co-operative farms etc. Following are some of the success stories of Industrial and Agricultural pressure groups; In 2012, The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Agriculture comprising of 31 members across party lines including 11 members from the ruling party submitted its report on GM crops. After looking at various aspects of the issue and consulting almost all the stakeholders i.e. agricultural pressure groups, over a period of 2.5 years, the committee unanimously recommended that the government should not be in a haste to approve GM crops and there be a complete overhaul of the current regulatory system. The important business groups include the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and industry (FICCI) and Associated Chamber of Commerce. They exerted varied kinds of pressures, by trying to influence planning, licensing bodies and economic ministries. Conclusion: It is evident that whether it is Industrial or agricultural pressure groups both have their respective domain of influence. Both have worked for the betterment of the respective interest groups and their presence is necessary to have a check on arbitrary government policies and expert advice in policy formulation for the growth and development of their targeted interest groups. It will not only ensure the dream of 'doubling farmers income by 2022' and 'AatmNirbhar Bharat' but also give impetus to realise the dream of becoming a '$5 trillion economy by 2025'. 2. Examine the evolution of the issue of judicial appointments in India. What are your views on the current system? Substantiate your views. Approach: Aspirants should examine how judicial appointments in India evolved through the years and associated issues with it. Since, the directive is “substantiate”, aspirants should support their stand/view on current system of appointment with evidence and logical arguments. Note: Student’s views or opinions can be based on two policies of judicial appointments i.e., committed judges policy and independent judges policy. Those who advocate the committed judiciary policy base their argument on the moot point that it envisages judiciary and the judges committed towards the laws and public policy made by the democratic representatives who best know the interests and demands of the people. On the other hand, independent judges policy holders do not advocate any compromise in appointment in judiciary. Introduction: Currently, the Judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the President under Article 124 (2), while the Judges of the High Courts are appointed by the President under Article 217 (1) of the Constitution. The recent developments and concerns with regards to appointment of judges make it essential to understand the system of judicial appointments in India. Body: Evolution of the issue of judicial appointments in India: Consultative process: Constituent assembly was sure that the power and procedure to appoint judges cannot rest exclusively with one organ. Therefore it adopted a consultative process of appointing judges to ensure that judges remain insulated from political influence. It vested in the President the power to both make appointments and transfer judges between high courts. The President (to act on the advice of the council of ministers) was however required to consult certain authorities such as the CJI or chief justice of the high court appropriately. For the first twenty-three years of the constitution the judicial appointments were made through the consultative process provided under Article 124 and 217; and the opinion of CJI was hardly avoided. The senior most judge of the Supreme Court was made the CJI and the executive (president) respected the constitutional convention of appointing the senior most judge a CJI till 1973. In 1973 this convention was deliberately violated and new CJI was appointed superseding three senior most judges. 'Consultation does not mean Concurrence’ The Supreme Court earlier ruled that the word “consultation” could not be interpreted to mean “concurrence”. Accordingly, the CJI’s opinion was not binding on the executive. Nevertheless, the executive could depart from the opinion only in exceptional circumstances and any such decision could be subject to judicial review. The system was thus fairly balanced and in the First Judges Case, 1981 the court once again endorsed this interpretation. ‘Consultation means Concurrence’ Second Judges Case - In the famous Second Judges Case, 1993 the court however overruled its earlier decisions. It now held that “consultation” meant “concurrence”, and that the CJI’s view enjoys primacy. This is with the rationale that CJI could be best equipped to know and assess the "worth" of candidates. But, the CJI was to formulate the opinion only through a body of senior judges that the court described as the 'collegium'. Collegium system In the Third Judges Case, 1998 the court clarified that the collegium would comprise CJI and four senior-most colleagues, in appointments to the Supreme Court. And, the CJI and two senior-most colleagues in the case of appointments to the high courts. Additionally, for HCs, the collegium would consult other senior judges in the SC who had previously served in the HC concerned. On whether these views of the consultee-judges are binding on the collegium or not, the judgments are silent. National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) The government, through 99th constitutional amendment, sought to replace the collegium with the National Judicial Appointments Commission. The Supreme Court however struck NJAC down. The court's rationale was that the NJAC law gave politicians an equal say in judicial appointments to constitutional courts. Collegium as part of the Constitution’s basic structure In what might now be called the Fourth Judges Case (2015), the court upheld the primacy of the collegium. More importantly it declared collegium as part of the Constitution’s basic structure. And so its power could not be removed even through a constitutional amendment. But given the criticisms against the system, the judgment promised to consider appropriate measures to improve the collegium system. Views on the current system: The move is essential in terms of bringing transparency into a system that has been long been criticized for its opacity. Critics have argued that the actual functioning is far from its proposed objective. Notably, the details on the valid reasons behind the selection or rejection of judges still lack clarity. Also details on which of the judges reject the candidature is unrevealed. In case of lack of consensus, at times the majority views are being over-ridden even by decision of one of the judges in the collegium. These shortfalls seem to go against the objective of transparency and impartiality, and thus the system needs further assessment. Conclusion: An independent and impartial judiciary is sine qua non if, democracy based on rule of law and fundamental freedoms is to sustain. Though, the principle and policy of judicial independence rests on various pillars, appointment of judges is the central pillar of the edifice. (Or) Aspirants can conclude their answer by summarizing how judicial appointments in India are keeping its independence by removing executive from it.  (Conclusion will be awarded with some marks). 3. PILs are manifestations of judicial activism which aims to widen judicial access to citizens. Elucidate. Approach: It expects students to explain PIL as the manifestation of judicial activism along with how various section of the society got access of judiciary through PIL with relevant examples. Introduction: The PIL was envisioned by the Supreme Court’s legendary judges as a powerful instrument to preserve the rule of law and to ensure the accountability of and transparency within structures of governance. Since 1980s, It has been successful in enforcing rights of the citizen and redressal of common grievances. Body: PILs as manifestations of judicial activism: Public Interest Litigation is product of judicial activism. Supreme Court being apex court in the country under article 142 of Indian constitution allowed passing any order necessary for doing complete justice in any cause or matter pending before it. PILs have introduced a new dimension to judiciary's involvement in public administration. The issue of locus standi and the procedural complexities has taken a back seat in the causes brought before the courts through PIL. In the beginning, the PIL was confined only to improving the lot of the disadvantaged sections of the society, who by reason of their poverty and ignorance was unable to seek justice and, therefore, any member of the society was permitted to file a case for appropriate directions. Consequently, the expectations of public went high and the demands on the courts to improve the administration by giving appropriate directions for ensuring compliance with statutory and constitutional prescriptions increased. Supreme Court of India has taken a goal-oriented approach in the interest of justice by simplifying highest technical and anachronistic procedures and brought justice to the doorstep of the weak, the unprivileged and exploitative section of society. Supreme Court highlighted essential aspect of PIL in words, ‘person who moves the court has no personal interest in the outcome of the proceedings, apart from a general standing as a citizen before the court.’ PIL widened Judicial Access: Scope of Fundamental rights widened: The Courts in exercise of powers under Articles 32 and 226 of the Constitution can entertain a petition filed by any interested person in the welfare of the people and constitutionally bound to protect the Fundamental Rights of such disadvantaged people and direct the State to fulfill its constitutional promises. Through judicial review Supreme Court expanded scope of Fundamental rights under Article 19, 21 and 23 substantially. Reforms in judicial approach towards under trials: In HussainaraKhatoon case, Supreme Court addressed the issue of under trial prisoners and helped to create a precedent over the speedy trial and equitable justice for the under trial prisoners. This case was stated to be a landmark case in India. Many times inadequacy of the law or regulation in concerned matter obliged court to issue guidelines regarding. E.g. Vishakha guidelines issued by Supreme Court because there was no Sexual harassment at workplace act put in place. Progressive societal change: Rights of LGBTQ community were long ignored by state. Political compulsions of ruling parties hindered radical societal changes. PILs helped to decriminalize the homosexual relations. Environment protection: Indian Judiciary is always vocal in support of Environment and healthy life for the people through its judgements. In various cases, courts had preferred environment over developments. E.g. in M.C. Mehta case the Supreme Court held that air pollution in Delhi caused by vehicular emissions violates right to life under Art. 21 and directed all commercial vehicles operating in Delhi to switch to CNG fuel mode for safeguarding health of the people. Electoral reforms: In the case of Association for Democratic Reforms, the judiciary brought about a major electoral reform. Court gave various directions making it obligatory on the part of candidates at the election to furnish information about their personal profile, background, qualifications and antecedents. Public Interest Litigation has done tremendous amount of good. It has practically tried to wipe away every tear of the underprivileged, disadvantaged and illiterate sections of the society. Conclusion: PIL is a radical procedural innovation that allows the court to overcome conventional, constitutional norms of the separation of powers, dilute procedural norms and devise unique and far-reaching institutional remedies. This may only be justified if it is used as an extraordinary instrument that compensates for the political and legal marginality of groups or interests otherwise excluded by current institutional practices. 4. India’s geopolitical interests are in close alignment with a stable and moderate Arab centre. Do you agree? Substantiate your views. Approach: It expects students to write about - in first part write about why stable Arab centre important for India geopolitically - in second part mention challenges in west Asia -  in third part write about what should be India's future policy towards West Asia. Introduction: India’s relations with the West Asian countries are historical since the independence. India has interests in economic, political, security and strategic fields with the West Asian nations. India has huge stakes involved in the region such as energy, trade and safety of Indian community in the region. Body: Geopolitical interest of India in west Asia: Geopolitically West Asia occupies an important position in international relations due to its geographical location and proximity to continents and countries South Asia, China, Central Asia, Europe, and Africa. The region is strategically significant due to its enormous energy resources, trade route links to different parts of the world. It is the world's largest oil-producing region accounting for 34% of world production, 45% of crude oil exports and 48% of oil proven reserves. Gate way to central Asia: West Asia is gate way to land locked and energy rich central Asia. Geostrategic importance: To reduce the influence of china in west Asia and in Arabian Sea. China is continuously making in road to west Asia through OBOR initiative. Challenges in west Asia: The security situation in West Asia has been continuously deteriorating ever since the onset of the Arab Spring in December 2010. The internal security situation in Syria, Iraq and Yemen has gone from bad to worse. The regional powers continue to fight proxy wars on sectarian lines, pumping huge amount of money and weapons to bolster their favoured groups. The involvement of extra-regional players such as the USA and Russia in the internal conflicts in West Asia has further aggravated the situation. The GCC-Iran rivalry, Shia-Sunni conflict, external intervention in the region, the fear of rise of religious radicalism etc. have further contributed to instability in West Asia. Terrorism: Terrorism has emerged as the biggest security threat to the region. The rise of the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) is the most disturbing trend. Saudi-Iran rivalry: destabilizing West Asia and influencing West Asian geopolitics. Pakistan factor: Pakistan is very close ally of many west Asian countries especially with GCC. India’s close relation with Iran may antagonize Saudi Arabia. India has to balance its ties with all three regional power in west Asia-Iran, Israel and Saudi Arabia. India’s geopolitical interests are in close alignment with stability in West Asia. Therefore, standing up for the region and opposing the forces of regional destabilisation should be at the very heart of India’s foreign policy in the region. In this context, India’s West Asia policy should adhere to following four principles: Acting as a Peace Negotiator: India should act as a mediator to normalize the relationship between West Asian countries, especially between Saudi Arabia, Israel, Turkey and Iran. Opposing Foreign Interventions in the Region: In the past, those came from the West and Israel. Today, most Arabs see the greatest threat to their security from Turkish and Iranian interventions. Aiding Arab Economic Integration: India should extend support to Arab economic integration, intra-Arab political reconciliation and the strengthening of regional institutions. Strengthening Ties with All Major Players in the Region: India’s geopolitical interests are in close alignment with those in the Arab Centre including Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Oman. Thus, India needs to make strong ties with the region. Conclusion: The geopolitical realignment in the Middle East, marked by agreement on the normalisation of relations between the United Arab Emirates and Israel, intersects with the equally significant reorientation of the Subcontinent’s relationship with the region. As Pakistan rediscovers its tradition of aligning with non-Arab powers, India must renew its defence of Arab sovereignty. 5. Collaboration between India and Australia can limit the dangers of the growing geopolitical imbalance in the Indo-Pacific. Comment. Approach: It expects students to write - in first part write how India and Australia can limit the dangers of the growing geopolitical imbalance in the Indo-Pacific - In second part write about challenges before it - in third part write way forward Introduction: India and Australia has shared a cordial relation with each other since a very long time and has witnessed an increased commitment in recent past. Multiple engagement in fields such as bilateral trade, strategic relations, student exchange programs, similar commitments towards sustainable development has made this relationship all the more dynamic. As the global momentum is markedly shifting towards the Indo-Pacific region it becomes imperative for both the nations to stand in unison and provide the stability the region desires owing to the over-indulging nature of China. Body: Geopolitical imbalance in the Indo-Pacific: China’s ambitious Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) raises concerns among other nations like China Pakistan Economic Corridor Passing through Pakistan Occupied Kashmir. China’s alleged ‘String of Pearls Policy’ aimed at encircling India using infrastructural projects in countries like Sri Lanka and Pakistan. China is also building artificial islands in SCS and establishing naval ports of Hambantota and Gwadar in Indian periphery. Japan is also wary of China’s capability to influence the energy supply chains on which East Asia depends. It is estimated that IPR will witness more than 50% of world’s submarines and advanced combat aircraft movement in next two decades. Debt Book Diplomacy followed by China of leading to China acquiring Hambantota Port of Sri Lanka for a lease period of 99 years. China’s has declared its ambition to make its military world class’, one that is capable of ‘winning wars’ is not the right signal for regional peace and prosperity. The recently released Doklam report by Indian Parliamentary Panel even also suggested not to take China’s strategic intentions casually. In 2016, International Court’s (ICJ) held that China’s claim over whole of SCS is baseless compromising the sovereignty of many other nations. China’s out rightly refused to accept this verdict on South China Sea. Lack of holistic Legal mechanism for multilateral cooperation on maritime security in the IPR makes resolution of issues difficult. For example, the recently concluded Caspian Sea deal is a legal mechanism evolved to recognize the sovereign rights of all the littoral nations. Presence of Organized Crime and Piracy in the IPR the Golden Crescent and Golden Triangle region. Also, there is still presence of Pirate groups in the Somalia and adjoining regions. Presence of major nuclear weapons states like India, China, USA and rouge nuclear states like Pakistan and North Korea, in this region. India and Australia can limit the dangers of the growing geopolitical imbalance in the Indo-Pacific as follows: The two countries must order their security establishments to develop strategic coordination in the various sub-regions of the Indo-Pacific littoral. The eastern Indian Ocean that lies between the shores of peninsular India and the west coast of Australia ought to be the top priority. Eastern Indian Ocean, connecting the two oceans, is at the heart of the Indo-Pacific. This is where Delhi and Canberra can initiate a full range of joint activities, including on maritime domain awareness, development of strategically located islands and marine scientific research. The sea lines of communication between the Indian and Pacific oceans run through the Indonesian archipelago. Given the shared political commitment to the Indo-Pacific idea between Delhi, Jakarta and Canberra and the growing pressures on them to secure their shared waters, India and Australia must seek trilateral maritime and naval cooperation with Indonesia. The current trilateral dialogue between Japan, Australia and India (JAI) can be expanded from the diplomatic level to practical maritime cooperation on the ground. Paris and Canberra are eager to develop a trilateral arrangement with Delhi that will supplement the bilateral cooperation among the three nations. Delhi must endorse the initiative. India and Australia must explore the possibilities for engagement between India and the Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA). FPDA was set up back in 1971, after Britain pulled back most of its forces from the East of Suez. The FPDA brings together the armed forces of the UK, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. Challenges: There are also a growing number of non-traditional and trans-boundary security challenges, including terrorism, natural disasters and pandemics. Also, India faces unfavourable trade with Australia and despite opening talks for a comprehensive economic cooperation agreement in 2011, the agreement which would have significantly lowered the trade balance in favour of India, has remained elusive. The region faces a range of traditional security challenges that relate to issues of trust in the form of China which has emerged as a regional power and has little faith in rule based order. Way Forward: Shared values, shared interests, shared geography and shared objectives are the bedrock of deepening India-Australia ties and the cooperation and coordination between the two countries have picked up momentum in recent years. India no longer sees Australia at the periphery of India’s vision but at the centre of its thoughts. Both India and Australia share a vision of a free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific region and cooperative use of the seas by adherence to international law including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and peaceful resolution of disputes rather than through unilateral or coercive actions. The opportunity as well as challenge is that the two nations are at very different levels of development. There can be converging and diverging interests. It is only by building a series of overlapping bilateral and minilateral platforms for regional security cooperation that Delhi and Canberra can limit the dangers of the growing geopolitical imbalance in the Indo-Pacific. Therefore, the future must be woven around the three pillars, which are economic relationship, geostrategic congruence and people-to-people ties, and the glue that can bind this is a sustained momentum. Conclusion: It is only by building a series of overlapping bilateral and minilateral platforms for regional security cooperation that Delhi and Canberra can limit the dangers of the growing geopolitical imbalance in the Indo-Pacific.   TLP HOT Synopsis Day 10 PDF

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs Quiz 23rd Oct 2020

For Previous Daily Quiz (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE The Current Affairs questions are based on sources like ‘The Hindu’, ‘Indian Express’ and ‘PIB’, which are very important sources for UPSC Prelims Exam. The questions are focused on both the concepts and facts. The topics covered here are generally different from what is being covered under ‘Daily Current Affairs/Daily News Analysis (DNA) and Daily Static Quiz’ to avoid duplication. The questions would be published from Monday to Saturday before 2 PM. One should not spend more than 10 minutes on this initiative. This is a part of our recently launched, NEW INITIATIVE IASbaba’s INTEGRATED REVISION PLAN (IRP) 2020 – Road Map for the next 100 Days! FREE INITIATIVE! We will make sure, in the next 4 months not a single day is wasted. All your energies are channelized in the right direction. Trust us! This will make a huge difference in your results this time, provided that you follow this plan sincerely every day without fail. Gear up and Make the Best Use of this initiative. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” To Know More about the Initiative -> CLICK HERE SCHEDULE/DETAILED PLAN – > CLICK HERE Important Note: Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :) After completing the 5 questions, click on 'View Questions' to check your score, time taken and solutions. To take the Test - Click Here

TLP Mains 2020

IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2 - ENGLISH & हिंदी): UPSC Mains Answer Writing - General Studies Paper 4 Questions[23rd OCTOBER,2020] - Day 11

For Previous TLP (ARCHIVES) - CLICK HERE Hello Friends, Welcome to IASbaba’s TLP (Phase 2 - ENGLISH & हिंदी): UPSC Mains Answer Writing - General Studies Paper 4 Questions[23rd OCTOBER,2020] - Day 11   We will make sure, in the next 3 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. We are giving 5 Mains Questions on Daily basis so that every student can actively participate and keep your preparation focused. Do remember that, “the difference between Ordinary and EXTRA-Ordinary is PRACTICE!!” To Know More about the Initiative -> CLICK HERE SCHEDULE/DETAILED PLAN – > CLICK HERE   Note: Click on Each Question (Link), it will open in a new tab and then Answer respective questions! 1. Examine the importance of value based learning in the age of social media.  सोशल मीडिया के युग में मूल्य आधारित शिक्षा के महत्व की जांच करें। 2. What do you understand by ‘perseverance’ as a human value. Explain its importance.  मानव मूल्य के रूप में 'दृढ़ता' से आप क्या समझते हैं इसका महत्व समझाएं। 3. Decline of family as an institution is a disturbing social reality. Do you agree? What are its implications? Discuss.  एक संस्था के रूप में परिवार का विघटन एक सामाजिक वास्तविकता है। क्या आप सहमत हैं? इसके निहितार्थ क्या हैं? चर्चा करें। 4. Man needs difficulties in life because they are necessary to enjoy success. Comment.  मनुष्य को जीवन में कठिनाइयों की आवश्यकता होती है क्योंकि यह सफलता का आनंद उठाने के लिए आवश्यक है। टिप्पणी करें। 5. The happiest people are those who lose themselves in the service of others. Do you agree? Substantiate your views.  सबसे खुश लोग वो हैं जो खुद को दूसरों की सेवा में खो देते हैं। क्या आप सहमत हैं? अपने विचारों की 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 :)

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