Apr 15, 2020 Important Articles

GUIDELINES: Ministry of Home Affairs (Govt. of India) Guidelines – 19 Days Lockdown (15th April to 3rd May, 2020) and list of Essential Services and Commodities available!

GUIDELINES: Ministry of Home Affairs (Govt. of India) Guidelines – 19 Days Lockdown (15th April to 3rd May, 2020) and list of Essential Services and Commodities available!   Please find below the NEW GUIDLINES from the Home Ministry on the measures to be taken by the State Governments, Union Territories and List of Essential Services and Commodities available! CONSOLIDATED GUIDELINES OF MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS 15th April 2020 (COVID-19) 19 Day Lockdown   Key points of Home Ministry guidelines on COVID-19 lockdown extension (15th April to 3rd May, 2020) Inter-state, inter-district movement of people, metro, bus services continue to be prohibited till May 3. Educational institutions, coaching centres, domestic, international air travel, train services to remain suspended till May 3 Cinema halls, malls, shopping complexes, gymnasiums, sports complexes, swimming pools, bars to remain closed till May 3 All social, political, sports, religious functions, religious places, places of worship shall be closed for public till May 3 These services will be fully-functional after April 20 according to new guidelines: Agriculture and Horticulture related activities, procurement of agriculture products, 'mandis', MGNREGA related work Shops of farm machinery, its spare parts, supply chain, repairs, 'Custom Hiring Centres' related to machinery. All Medical facilities that include Aayush, health infrastructure related works, Manufacturing units of pharmaceuticals, medical devices, construction of medical infrastructure. Financial sector including bank branches and ATMs. Industries related to the production of essential goods. Movement of cargos and essential items across the country.   Together we can overcome the crisis! Let’s do our bit by staying home, following the guidelines and sharing the right information. Kindly share!! #stayhomestaysafe #IndiaFightsCorona For the right information refer the authentic source - https://www.mohfw.gov.in/ https://www.mygov.in/covid-19/  

Apr 15, 2020 Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent and Creativity

Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity: WALL SKETCHES by BHASKER POLEPALLY!

Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity: WALL SKETCHES by BHASKER POLEPALLY!   Hello Friends, You must be aware of the term ‘catharsis’. It is the process of releasing and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions. Recently we have launched a new initiative by the name Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity! Today's work is a WALL SKETCHES by BHASKER POLEPALLY. Well done, Keep it up !! IASbaba Wishes him a Very Happy Birthday today (15th April, 2020)! To make it special, his brother Balraj Polepally had shared this piece of art to be posted on IASbaba.   Be creative and find your catharsis in whichever form of creativity you are comfortable with.  It could be anything- a song, a painting, a poem, a story, a dance performance, rangolis, jokes/humor, culinary skills, mimicry and whatnot. There is no limit to creativity. Just unleash and share it with everyone! Why don’t you share your moments of catharsis with us? UPSC is not only about academics but personality as well. And your personality is shaped by the creativity that you possess.   To know more about Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity' Initiative and the Previous Creative work  -> CLICK HERE We encourage you to keep the comment section alive by sharing your talents and also by commenting and encouraging the talent of your peers. We are also going to be a regular visitor here and will keep on posting the creative works by our talented team members and staff. NOTE- You can also nominate by tagging anyone (if you know about the talent of your friend or anyone) 🙂 You can share your talent/creativity with us on support@iasbaba.com and ilp@iasbaba.com  P.S: Kindly share it in a format that can be published on the website. We believe each one of you have some hidden talent. It’s time that you explore more about yourselves and remain positive throughout this journey. Make the best use of this opportunity! Thank You IASbaba

Apr 15, 2020 60 DAYS PROGRAMME-PRELIMS 2020

IASbaba’s 60 Day Plan [Day - 39]- IAS Prelims Test Series 2020 HISTORY & CURRENT AFFAIRS

ARCHIVES OF 60 DAY PLAN STRATEGY [VIDEO]: UPSC IAS Preparation Guidance/Tips from Mohan Sir  Dear Students, The 60 Days Training has finally begun:) DAY 39 is here! It is time to Introspect, Ideate and Improve!! We have come-up with articles to instil confidence, motivate you in the present situation. Do read these articles. Mark the words/lines in your dairy. These very lines can be the driving force’ in the time of uncertainty. [STRATEGY] MUST READ: 21 Days of Lockdown-What to do? Introspect, Ideate and Improve !! MUST READ: PRELIMS in Testing Times – Don’t Forget the ‘WHY’; IASbaba’s dedicated HOTLINE for Aspirants and Prelims Postponing Rumours Coronavirus[VIDEO]: Awareness, Myths, Solidarity and Message to All UPSC Aspirants by Mohan Sir Founder IASbaba   To ensure that your preparation goes smoothly and keeping up with our promise, we have come up with a Dedicated HOTLINE (Communication channel) - Connect with BABA for all UPSC/IAS Aspirants. From today, you will be able to speak with the Founders and Core Team of IASbaba on telephone regarding ‘any queries’ related to UPSC preparation in general or Subject-specific doubts. This Hotline, will be in addition to the 'ASK YOUR BABA' (#ASKBABA) thread opened on a daily basis for our 60 Day plan. We will try to make sure that with so much going around these days, you have at least one less thing to worry about.   How to make use of HOTLINE and ASK YOUR BABA (#ASKBABA)? There are 2 initiatives which will be running parallely. 1. HOTLINE - Connect with BABA (5pm - 7pm) The communication channel will be open ONLY for 2 hours Daily (except on Sundays - holiday) from 5pm to 7 pm. Please do not make calls before or after the specified time. As we will be occupied with other daily initiatives running on the website and mentorship. Hope you understand our time constraints. Please note that, call facilities are mainly for queries related to preparation per se like strategies, difficulties in reading a subject, what to read, what not to read, how to manage time, revision, motivation etc. You can call on the numbers given below. For any queries related to - UPSC Preparation (Prelims, Mains, Interview) Strategy & Current Affairs – contact 9986190082 Environment & Science and Technology – contact 9986193016 Polity & Economics – contact 9899291288 Geography & History – contact 9591106864 We have separated General Strategy (Preparation per se – Pre, Mains, Interview) and Current Affairs from other subjects. You can make use of the HOTLINE, as per your needs.   2. ASK YOUR BABA (#ASKBABA) - clear your doubts on the 60 Day Platform (Online from 11 am - 10 pm) Use the disqus comment section of that particular day (60 Day post - For Ex: Today is Day 25) to clear all your subject specific doubts of the day. You can post your queries/doubts with #ASKBABA !! Here, doubts related to the 60 day questions or conceptual clarity in a particular subject can be asked. Your doubts will be cleared on real-time basis (or max within hour it will be answered from the subject experts) If you are genuinely finding difficulty interms of preparing with that particular subject, then you can use 5pm-7pm window to make calls. If you are not able to speak to IASbaba's Team, then you can still post your doubts/queries in the same post of the 60 day initiative. As mentioned above, your doubts will be cleared on real-time basis (or max within hour it will be answered from the subject experts). Make the best use of the communication channel (Ask Your Baba/comment section on daily 60 Day post and calls) provided. We will make sure that, all your queries will be answered to. So we have  tried our bit, to ensure your preparation goes smoothly, you can do your bit by keeping in touch with us via phone/ website to keep yourself going, keep yourself engaged and staying positive during the rough times.   How to make the maximum use of this HOTLINE and #ASKBABA (Disqus comment of 60 Day Plan) on Daily basis? Now, that I have solved 30 mcq’s, what to do next?  How to Analyse my Performance? For Answers to the above Questions  ->CONNECT WITH BABA: IASbaba’s Dedicated HOTLINE for UPSC/IAS Aspirants !!   Note- Download the OMR Sheet and attempt the questions exactly like UPSC Prelims. After you are done, please post your OMR in the comment section. Once the solution key is released (5 PM), cross-check the answers and again, comment the marks (you got) in the same comment thread. This will keep you responsible and sincere in days to come. Also, we need more sets of scores for releasing the cut offs in the night so, requesting all of you to sincerely put your scores in comment section.    You can also take part in discussion with peers.   Q.1) Which of the following statement about Lakhudiyar rock paintings is/are correct? The paintings depicted of man, animal and geometric patterns are in white, black and red ochre. Hand-linked dancing human figures without superimposition are striking feature of these paintings. Wavy lines, rectangle-filled geometric designs, and groups of dots can also be seen here. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.1) लखुदियार शैल चित्रों (Lakhudiyar rock paintings) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा कथन सही है / हैं? मनुष्य, पशु तथा सफेद, काले और लाल गेरूआ रंगों में ज्यामितीय पैटर्न के चित्रण होते हैं। अधिरोपण (superimposition) के बिना हाथ से संबद्ध नृत्य करते हुए मानव चित्र इन चित्रों की विशेषता हैं। लहरदार रेखाएं, आयत में भरे ज्यामितीय डिज़ाइन और बिंदुओं के समूह (groups of dots) भी यहाँ देखे जा सकते हैं। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1 और 2 केवल 3 केवल 1 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.2) Match the following pairs:         Arts of The Indus Valley         Material used    1. Dancing Girl    A. Terracotta    2. Bearded Priest    B. Bronze     3. Male Torso    C. Sandstone    4. Mother Goddess    D. Steatite Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 – A ; 2 – D ; 3 – C ; 4 – B 1 – A ; 2 – C ; 3 – D ; 4 – B 1 – B ; 2 – D ; 3 – C ; 4 – A 1 – B ; 2 – C ; 3 – D ; 4 – A Q.2) निम्नलिखित युग्मों का मिलान करें:         सिंधु घाटी की कलाकृतियाँ                          प्रयुक्त सामग्री     1. नृत्य करती हुई लड़की    A. टेरकोटा    2. दाढ़ी रखे हुए पुजारी    B. कांसा     3. पुरुष धड़ (Male Torso)    C. बलुआ पत्थर    4. मातृदेवी     D. स्टेटाइट    नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: 1 – A ; 2 – D ; 3 – C ; 4 – B 1 – A ; 2 – C ; 3 – D ; 4 – B 1 – B ; 2 – D ; 3 – C ; 4 – A 1 – B ; 2 – C ; 3 – D ; 4 – A Q.3) With reference to potteries of Indus Valley Civilisation, consider the following statements: Pottery consists chiefly of very fine handmade wares, very few being wheel made. Polychrome pottery was rare. Incised ware was common and the incised decoration was confined to the bases of the pans. Which of the statements given above is/are INCORRECT?  1 and 2 only 3 only 1 and 3 only None of the above Q.3) सिंधु घाटी सभ्यता के मृदभांडों के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें:  मृदभांडों में मुख्य रूप से बहुत अच्छे हस्तनिर्मित होते हैं, बहुत कम चाक पर बने होते थे। बहु-रंगीय (Polychrome) मृदभांड दुर्लभ थें। तराशे हुए बर्तन आम थे तथा तराशी गई सजावट बर्तन के आधारों तक सीमित थी। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा ग़लत है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 3 केवल 1 और 3 इनमें से कोई भी नहीं Q.4) Consider the following pairs:           Stupa Site State    1. Jagayyapetta Andhra Pradesh    2. Bairat Madhya Pradesh    3. Devnimori Karnataka Which of the pairs given above are incorrectly matched? 1 only 1 and 2 only 3 only 2 and 3 only Q.4) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                         स्तूप स्थल राज्य    1. जाग्यापेट  आंध्र प्रदेश    2. बैराट  मध्य प्रदेश    3. देवनीमोरी (Devnimori)  कर्नाटक   ऊपर दी गई कौन सी जोड़ी गलत तरीके से मेल खाती है? केवल 1 केवल 1 और 2 केवल 3 केवल 2 और 3  Q.5) The Prayag Prasasti has inscription of which of the following rulers? Ashoka Samudragupta Jahangir Select the correct answer using the codes given below: 1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.5) प्रयाग प्रशस्ति में निम्नलिखित में से किस शासक का शिलालेख है? अशोक समुद्रगुप्त जहांगीर नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1 और 2 केवल 2  केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.6)  With reference to Amravati school of Art, consider the following statements: It was developed indigenously and not influenced by external cultures. The sculptures of Amaravati School were made using white marbles. The sculptures of this school made excessive use of the Tribhanga posture, i.e. the body with three bends. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 3 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.6) अमरावती स्कूल कला के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: यह स्वदेशी रूप से विकसित की गयी थी तथा बाहरी संस्कृतियों से प्रभावित नहीं थी। अमरावती स्कूल की मूर्तियां सफेद पत्थर का उपयोग करके बनाई गई थीं। इस स्कूल की मूर्तियों में त्रिभंगा मुद्रा का अत्यधिक उपयोग किया गया है, अर्थात् शरीर तीन झुकाव के साथ था। ऊपर दिए गए कौन से कथन सही हैं? केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2  केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.7) Consider the following pairs:         Temple Style of Temple Architecture      1. Sun Temple, Konark Nagara    2. Hoysala temple, Karnataka  Dravida    3. Markandeshwar temple, Maharashtra Vesara Which of the pairs given above are incorrectly matched? 1 and 3 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 2 only Q.7) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                               मंदिर                 मंदिर वास्तुकला की शैली     1. सूर्य मंदिर, कोणार्क                           नगार    2. होयसल मंदिर, कर्नाटक                           द्रविड़    3. मार्कंडेश्वर मंदिर, महाराष्ट्र                             वेसर    ऊपर दी गई कौन सी जोड़ी गलत तरीके से मेल खाती है? केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2  केवल 2 और 3  केवल 1 और 2 Q.8) The largest number of caves excavated from which of these places? Ajanta Junnar Ellora Kanheri Q.8) इनमें से सबसे अधिक संख्या में गुफाओं की खुदाई किस स्थान से हुई है? अजंता जुन्नार  एलोरा कन्हेरी Q.9) Consider the following statements about saptamatrikas: Saptamatrikas are a group of seven female deities worshipped in Buddhism. There are references of Saptamatrika worship in early Kadamba copper plates as well as early Chalukyas and Eastern Chalukya copper plates. Nagarjunakonda inscription is the earliest Sanskrit inscription in South India. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 3 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.9) सप्तमातृक (saptamatrikas) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: सप्तमातृक बौद्ध धर्म में पूजित सात महिला देवताओं का एक समूह है। कदंब ताम्र पत्रों के साथ-साथ आरंभिक चालुक्य और पूर्वी चालुक्य ताम्र पत्रों में सप्तमातृक पूजा के संदर्भ हैं। नागार्जुनकोंडा शिलालेख दक्षिण भारत का सबसे प्राचीन संस्कृत शिलालेख है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2  केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.10) Which of these are known examples of Cave paintings of the Gupta period in Ancient India? Bagh Karle Ajanta Bhaja Ellora Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 3 only 2, 3 and 4 only 1, 3 and 5 only 1, 2, 4 and 5 only Q.10) प्राचीन भारत में गुप्त काल के गुफा चित्रों के कौन से उदाहरण हैं? बाघ कार्ले  अजंता भज एलोरा नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2, 3 और 4  केवल 1, 3 और 5 केवल 1, 2, 4 और 5 Q.11) Consider the following pairs:         Temples of South India Built By    1. Meenakshi Temple, Madurai Pandya    2. Shore Temple, Mahabalipuram Pallavas    3. Virupaksha Temple, Pattadkal Rashtrakutas Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.11) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                     दक्षिण भारत के मंदिर                             निर्माता      1. मीनाक्षी मंदिर, मदुरै                               पंड्या    2. तटीय मंदिर, महाबलीपुरम                             पल्लव    3. विरुपाक्ष मंदिर, पट्टडकल                             राष्ट्रकूट   ऊपर दिए गए युग्मों में से कौन सा सही तरीके से मेल खाता है? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 2  केवल 2 और 3  1, 2 और 3 Q.12) With reference to cultural history of India, the terms ‘sandhara’, ‘nirandhara’ and ‘sarvatobhadra’ are associated with which of the following? Temple Architecture  Buddhist literature Rock-cut caves  Classical Music Q.12) भारत के सांस्कृतिक इतिहास के संदर्भ में, शब्द 'संधार', 'निरंधार' और 'सर्वतोभद्र' निम्नलिखित में से किसके साथ संबद्ध हैं? मंदिर वास्तुकला बौद्ध साहित्य शिला-कृत गुफाएँ शास्त्रीय संगीत Q.13) Which among the following are examples of Mauryan sculptural tradition? Lion Capital at Sarnath Seated Buddha at Sarnath Didarganj Yakshini Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.13) निम्नलिखित में से कौन मौर्य मूर्तिकला परंपरा के उदाहरण हैं? सारनाथ में सिंहचतुर्मुख स्तम्भशीर्ष (Lion Capital)  सारनाथ में बैठे हुए बुद्ध (Seated Buddha)  दीदारगंज यक्षिणी नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3  1, 2 और 3 Q.14) Consider the following pairs:         Sculpture Caves     1. Gajasura Shiva Ellora    2. Mara Vijaya Ajanta     3. Maheshmurthi  Elephanta  Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 1 and 2 only 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.14) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                              मूर्तिकला (Sculpture)                             गुफाएं    1. गजासुर शिव (Gajasura Shiva)                             एलोरा    2. मारा विजय (Mara Vijaya)                             अजंता    3. महेशमूर्ति (Maheshmurthi)                             एलीफेंटा   ऊपर दिए गए युग्मों में से कौन सा सही तरीके से मेल खाता है? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 3 केवल 2 और 3  1, 2 और 3 Q.15) Consider the following pairs:         Structures Meant for    1. Hammams Giving religious instructions    2. Sarais Traveller’s lodge    3. Naqqar Khana Drum House    4. Khanqahs Watch towers Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 2 and 3 only 1 and 4 only 2, 3 and 4 only 1, 2 and 3 only Q.15) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                     संरचनाएं                             अर्थ     1. हमाम धार्मिक निर्देश देने का स्थान     2. सराय  यात्रियों के रुकने का स्थान     3. नक्कारखाना ड्रम हाउस    4. खानकाह  घड़ी टावर (Watch towers)   ऊपर दिए गए युग्मों में से कौन सा सही तरीके से मेल खाता है? केवल 2 और 3 केवल 1 और 4 केवल 2, 3 और 4  केवल 1, 2 और 3 Q.16) With reference to Nayaka paintings, consider the following statements: It is an extension of the Vijayanagara style with minor regional modifications and incorporations. The painting of Dakshinamurthy at Lepakshi is a good example of this style. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only  Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.16) नायक चित्रकला के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: यह मामूली क्षेत्रीय संशोधनों और संयोजनों के साथ विजयनगर शैली का विस्तार है। लेपाक्षी में दक्षिणामूर्ति की पेंटिंग इस शैली का एक अच्छा उदाहरण है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.17) Which of the following is/are the decorative style used in Indo-Saracenic Architecture? High and low relief carving Tessellation Calligraphy and use of Jalis Depiction of living forms on the surface of wall Arabesque  Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1, 3 and 4 only 1, 2, 3 and 5 only 2, 3 and 5 only 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Q.17) भारत-सारसेनिक वास्तुकला (Indo-Saracenic Architecture) में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सी सजावटी शैली का उपयोग किया जाता है? उच्च और निम्न झुकी हुई नक्काशी (High and low relief carving) चौकोर (Tessellation) जाली का उपयोग और सुलेख (Calligraphy) दीवार की सतह पर रहने वाले जीवित रूपों का चित्रण  अरबस्क (Arabesque) नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1, 3 और 4 केवल 1, 2, 3 और 5 केवल 2, 3 और 5 1, 2, 3, 4 और 5 Q.18) Consider the following statements about Nandalal Bose, an artist: He was one of the notable painters of Bengal school of Art. He is known to have beautified the original manuscript of the Constitution of India. He was the first artist to be elected as Fellow of the Lalit Kala Akademi. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?  1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.18) नंदलाल बोस, एक कलाकार के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: वह बंगाल स्कूल कला के उल्लेखनीय चित्रकारों में से एक थे। उन्हें भारत के संविधान की मूल पांडुलिपि को सुशोभित करने के लिए जाना जाता है। वह ललित कला अकादमी के फैलो के रूप में चुने जाने वाले पहले कलाकार थे। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3  1, 2 और 3 Q.19) With reference to Pattachitra paintings, consider the following statements: It is a traditional wall-based scroll painting from Odisha. The artists use a pencil or charcoal for the preliminary drawings. The materials used in the paint are from vegetable, earth, and mineral sources. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?  1 and 2 only 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.19) पट्टचित्र चित्रकला (Pattachitra paintings) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: यह ओडिशा की एक पारंपरिक दीवार-आधारित स्क्रॉल पेंटिंग है। कलाकार प्रारंभिक चित्र के लिए एक पेंसिल या लकड़ी के कोयला का उपयोग करते थे। पेंट में प्रयुक्त सामग्री सब्जी, पृथ्वी सामग्री और खनिज स्रोतों से लिए जाते हैं। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 3 केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.20) Consider the following pairs: Cheriyal paintings – Madhya Pradesh Mandana paintings - Rajasthan Paitkar paintings - Jharkhand Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 3 only 1 and 3 only Q.20) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें: चेरियल चित्रकला  - मध्य प्रदेश मांडना चित्रकला - राजस्थान पैटकर चित्रकला - झारखंड ऊपर दिए गए युग्मों में से कौन सा सही तरीके से सुमेलित है? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 2 और 3  केवल 3 केवल 1 और 3 Q.21) Which of the following organisation released the Women, Business and The Law Report 2020? Organisation of Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)  UN-Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN-DESA)  UN Women World Bank Q.21) निम्नलिखित में से किस संगठन ने महिला, व्यवसाय और कानून रिपोर्ट 2020 (Women, Business and The Law Report 2020) जारी की? आर्थिक सहयोग और विकास संगठन (OECD) UN- आर्थिक और सामाजिक मामलों का विभाग (UN-DESA) संयुक्त राष्ट्र की महिला विश्व बैंक Q.22) Consider the following pairs:         Cities in News Country    1. Al-Asad Iraq    2. Sirte Egypt    3. Lamu Kenya    4. Erbil Syria    5. Tripoli Jordan   Which of the pairs given above are incorrectly matched? 2 and 5 only 1, 3 and 4 only 2, 4 and 5 only 1, 2, 3 and 5 only Q.22) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                   समाचारों में शहर                               देश    1. अल-असद                               इराक    2. सिरते                               मिस्र    3. लामू                                केन्या    4. इरबिल                              सीरिया    5. त्रिपोली                              जॉर्डन   ऊपर दी गई कौन सी जोड़ी गलत तरीके से मेल खाती है? केवल 2 और 5  केवल 1, 3 और 4 केवल 2, 4 और 5 केवल 1, 2, 3 और 5 Q.23) Consider the following statements about Mugger Crocodile: It is found in freshwater habitats and also in coastal saltwater lagoons and estuaries. It is an ‘Endangered’ species under IUCN Red List. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only  Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.23) मग्गर क्रोकोडाइल (Mugger Crocodile) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: यह मीठे पानी के आवासों में तथा तटीय खारे पानी के लैगून और ज्वारनदमुखों में भी पाया जाता है। यह IUCN लाल सूची के तहत एक 'लुप्तप्राय' (Endangered) प्रजाति है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.24) The Zo Kutpui is a festival of which of the following tribes? Mizo Apatani Kuki Meitei  Q.24) जो कुट्पुई (Zo Kutpui) निम्नलिखित में से किस जनजाति का त्योहार है? मिजो अपातानी कूकी मेइती Q.25) With reference to North-East Gas Grid Project, which of these statements is/are NOT correct? The grid connects all the eight states in North-Eastern region. It is implemented by Gas Authority of India Ltd (GAIL). Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 only 2 only  Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.25) उत्तर-पूर्व गैस ग्रिड परियोजना के संदर्भ में, इनमें से कौन सा कथन सही नहीं है / हैं? ग्रिड पूर्वोत्तर क्षेत्र के सभी आठ राज्यों को जोड़ती है। इसे गैस अथॉरिटी ऑफ इंडिया लिमिटेड (GAIL) द्वारा लागू किया गया है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.26) Consider the following statements ‘Bureau of Immigration (BoI)’ is under the aegis of Ministry of External Affairs. The e-FRRO scheme has been implemented on the Immigration, Visa and Foreigner's Registration & Tracking (IVFRT) platform. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.26) निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें ‘ब्यूरो ऑफ इमिग्रेशन (BoI)’ विदेश मंत्रालय के तत्वावधान में है। ई-एफआरआरओ योजना (e-FRRO scheme) आव्रजन, वीजा और विदेशी पंजीकरण और ट्रैकिंग (IVFRT) प्लेटफॉर्म पर लागू की गई है। सही कथनों का चयन करें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.27) Which of the following pairs is/are correctly matched?            Places in News       Country Ashdod – Israel Taal Volcano – Indonesia Hulhumale – Sri Lanka Select the correct code 1 Only 1 and 2 2 and 3 All of the above Q.27) निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा युग्म, सही रूप से सुमेलित है / हैं?             समाचार में स्थान -   देश अशदोद -            इज़राइल ताल ज्वालामुखी - इंडोनेशिया हुलहुमाले -            श्रीलंका सही कूट का चयन करें केवल 1 1 और 2 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.28) ‘'Sahyog-Kaijin' is a joint exercise between Coast Guards of India and Japan China Indonesia Thailand Q.28) 'सहयोग-काजीन' (Sahyog-Kaijin) भारतीय कोस्ट गार्ड्स और किसके बीच एक संयुक्त अभ्यास है जापान चीन इंडोनेशिया थाईलैंड Q.29) The term ‘Reciprocating Territories of India’ was in new recently. Consider the following statements The scope of the term flows from the Code of Civil Procedure. United Arab Emirates is the only to be the reciprocating territory of India Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.29) 'भारत के पारस्परिक क्षेत्र' (Reciprocating Territories of India) शब्द हाल ही में समाचारों में था। निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें शब्द का दायरा नागरिक प्रक्रिया संहिता से निकला है। संयुक्त अरब अमीरात एकमात्र भारत का पारस्परिक क्षेत्र है सही कथनों का चयन करें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.30) ‘Reskilling Revolution’ is an initiative by World Economic Forum World Bank World Trade Organization International Monetary Fund Q.30) ‘रिस्किलिंग क्रांति’ (Reskilling Revolution) किसकी एक पहल है विश्व आर्थिक मंच विश्व बैंक विश्व व्यापार संगठन अंतरराष्ट्रीय मुद्रा कोष DOWNLOAD THE SOLUTION ENGLISH HINDI NOTE- Follow this for Comments Mention- Time Taken after solving the Test After the release of Solution Edit your Comment to Mention-  Correct/Incorrect and Score 2 Marks for Correct/0.66 minus for Incorrect. DOWNLOAD THE 60 DAYS PLAN 2020  PRELIMS EXCLUSIVE CURRENT AFFAIRS CLASSES (12 SESSIONS-By Tauseef Sir): STARTING 15 APRIL- JOIN NOW! All the Best! IASbaba

Apr 14, 2020 Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent and Creativity

Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity: 3D Art By IMTI SHASHI, POEMS by YOGITHA SUMANA and BARLEEN KAUR!

Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity: 3D Art By IMTI SHASHI, POEMS by YOGITHA SUMANA and BARLEEN KAUR!   Hello Friends, You must be aware of the term ‘catharsis’. It is the process of releasing and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions. Recently we have launched a new initiative by the name Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity! Today's work is a 3D ART by IMTI SHAHSI, a POEM by YOGITHA SUMAN and  WRITINGS by BARLEEN KAUR. Well done, Keep it up !! 3D ART by IMTI SHASHI   POEM by YOGITHA SUMAN This is dedicated to all the serious aspirers who want to achieve something in their life to make the society a better place. WRITINGS by BARLEEN KAUR "My calling for healing"   Be creative and find your catharsis in whichever form of creativity you are comfortable with.  It could be anything- a song, a painting, a poem, a story, a dance performance, rangolis, jokes/humor, culinary skills, mimicry and whatnot. There is no limit to creativity. Just unleash and share it with everyone! Why don’t you share your moments of catharsis with us? UPSC is not only about academics but personality as well. And your personality is shaped by the creativity that you possess.   To know more about Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity' Initiative and the Previous Creative work  -> CLICK HERE We encourage you to keep the comment section alive by sharing your talents and also by commenting and encouraging the talent of your peers. We are also going to be a regular visitor here and will keep on posting the creative works by our talented team members and staff. NOTE- You can also nominate by tagging anyone (if you know about the talent of your friend or anyone) 🙂 You can share your talent/creativity with us on support@iasbaba.com and ilp@iasbaba.com  P.S: Kindly share it in a format that can be published on the website. We believe each one of you have some hidden talent. It’s time that you explore more about yourselves and remain positive throughout this journey. Make the best use of this opportunity! Thank You IASbaba

Apr 14, 2020 PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 6th April to 12th April – 2020

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 6th April to 12th April – 2020 ARCHIVES GS-2 Steps for Fund Utilisation for COVID-19 (Topic: Government measures to utilise funds to fight COVID-19) Cabinet approves Non-operation of Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) for two years (2020-21 and 2021-22) for managing COVID 19.  COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package: GoI has announced significant investments to the tune of Rs.15000 crores for 'India COVID-19 Emergency Response and Health System Preparedness Package'. The funds sanctioned will be utilized for immediate COVID-19 Emergency Response (amount of Rs.7774 crores) and rest for medium-term support (1-4 years) to be provided under mission mode approach. Mounting emergency response to slow and limit COVID-19 in India through the development of diagnostics and COVID-19 dedicated treatment facilities Centralized procurement of essential medical equipment and drugs required for treatment of infected patients Strengthen and build resilient National and State health systems to support prevention and preparedness for future disease outbreaks Setting up of laboratories and bolster surveillance activities, bio-security preparedness, pandemic research Proactively engage communities and conduct risk communication activities Ensuring Food Security (Topic: Government measures to ensure food for all to fight COVID-19) FCI is working tirelessly and has ensured that enough food grain stocks are made available in every part of the country during countrywide lockdown. In last 13 days since 24.03.2020 when the lockdown was announced to fight the COVID-19 pandemic, FCI moved an average of 1.41 Lakh MT food grain per day as against the pre-lockdown daily average of about 0.8 Lakh MT. NGOs permitted to buy food grains directly from FCI for Relief operations As part of maintaining smooth supply of essential items in the country, states have been directed to take urgent steps to ensure availability of essential goods, by invoking provisions of the Essential Commodities (EC) Act 1955. These measures include fixing of stock limits, capping of prices, enhancing production, inspection of accounts of dealers and other such actions. Government of India has directed Food Corporation of India (FCI) to provide food grains @5 Kg per person per month for 3 months at the rates of Rs. 21/Kg for wheat and Rs. 22/Kg for rice uniformly across the country to all beneficiaries not covered under NFSA to whom ration cards have been issued by state governments under their schemes. Elements of Smart Cities playing a ‘smart’ role (Topic: Government measures to fight COVID-19 in the urban setting) Cities are developing predictive analytics using heat maps and taking action in monitoring the movements (using geo-fencing) as well as periodic health status of suspected cases. Telemedicine has emerged as an important technology to ensure citizen safety through efficient communication and is being used by doctors to provide online medical consultation facilities to citizens. Remote delivery of medical services during the lockdown period is allowed.  Disinfection of public spaces Though the virus survives on environmental surfaces for varied period of time, it gets easily inactivated by chemical disinfectants. Indian Cities have been making significant efforts in sanitizing the cities, especially the public spaces which are considered risk prone areas for local spread of virus. City Governments have collaborated with Fire Departments and used fire-tenders, water wash pumps, etc., to sanitize all the streets in the city by spraying disinfectants. Cities are taking up innovative approaches for disinfection of public places using sodium hypochlorite Assistance provided by the Defence Services (Topic: Government measures to fight COVID-19) Police Security to Doctors and Medical Staff fighting COVID-19: In view of reported incidents of harassment of Doctors and Medical Staff, Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has directed all States/UTs and respective Police authorities to provide necessary Police Security to them in hospitals and at places where patients who have been diagnosed COVID-19 positive or where suspected cases are quarantined. Ministry of Defence (MoD) has allowed temporary employment of NCC cadets last week under ‘Exercise NCC Yogdan’. Civil and police administration have started requisitioning for services of senior division National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets in fight against Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. IAF has earmarked aircraft at nodal points to airlift medical supplies and equipment at short notice to proactively support operations against COVID-19. Ex-Servicemen (ESM) belonging to Army, Navy and Air Force are assisting the civil administration and providing their services voluntarily and selflessly. Provision of Medical Essentials  (Topic: Government measures to ensure medical supplies for all to fight COVID-19) 132 Lifeline UDAN flights operated till date to transport more than 373.23 tons of medical cargo to various part of the country Oxygen supply: There is a critical need to maintain adequate supply of medical oxygen in the country in the wake of COVID-19 Pandemic and as medical oxygen is also included in the national list and WHO's list of essential medicines. Construction of hospitals: Mahanadi Coalfields Limited (MCL) will finance all expenses of the COVID-19 country’s second largest COVID-19 hospital in Bhubaneswar including cost of treatment of patients for which MCL has already released Rs 7.31 Crores as immediate advance. Isolation Units: 2500 Coaches converted as Isolation Coaches by Railways with 40000 isolation beds ready for contingency Swasth ke Sipahi deliverying essential services and medicines at doorstep of patients and elderly under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) Proposals for developing antiviral Nano-coating and new nano based material for use in Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) - for producing anti-COVID-19 Triple Layer Medical masks and N-95 respirator or better masks in large quantities and PPEs for safeguarding health care workers against COVID-19 Central Government has granted exemption from Basic Customs Duty and Health cess, on the import of the following goods, with immediate effect: Ventilators, Face masks, surgical Masks, Personal protection equipment (PPE) Covid-19 test kits inputs for manufacture of the above items Monitoring COVID-19 data - COVID-19 War Rooms (Topic: Government measures to monitor the situation due to COVID-19) Smart Cities of Pune, Surat, Bengaluru and Tumakuru are using the integrated data dashboards, developed by the data analysts and data experts working with their ICCCs (also functioning as COVID-19 War Rooms in many cities) to provide up-to-date information about the status of corona virus in different administrative zones of their cities – CCTV Surveillance of Public Places GIS Mapping of COVID Positive cases GPS Tracking of Healthcare workers Predictive Analytics (Heat Maps) for virus containment across different zones of the city Virtual Training to Doctors & Healthcare professionals Real-time tracking of Ambulances & Disinfection Services Medical Services through Video Conferencing Tele-Counselling and Tele-Medicine Measures for Students (Topic: Government measures to ensure e-learning for students and their well-being) Digital learning: Nearly five times rise in access to HRD Ministry’s E-Learning platforms Launched SAMADHAN - to test the ability of students to innovate - search and develop such measures that can be made available to the government agencies, health services, hospitals and other services for quick solutions to the Coronavirus epidemic and other such calamities. Mental Health & Well-Being: Set up help lines, Regular mentoring of students through interactions, and appeals/letters by the Universities/Colleges to remain calm and stress free, Form COVID-19 help groups of students, to identify friends/classmates in need of help and provide immediate necessary help MHRD Launches ‘Bharat Padhe Online’ campaign for Crowd sourcing of Ideas for Improving Online Education ecosystem of India Financial Support to Citizens (Topic: Government measures to ensure financial support for all to fight COVID-19) With a view to provide immediate relief to the business entities and individuals, it has been decided to issue all the pending income-tax refunds up to Rs. 5 lakh, immediately. This would benefit around 14 lakh taxpayers. Extension of premium payment period for Postal Life Insurance & Rural Postal Life Insurance till 30th June 2020 Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO), an statutory body under Union Ministry of Labour & Employment has processed about 1.37 lakh claims across the country disbursing an amount of Rs. 279.65 crore under a new provision especially formulated by amending the EPF Scheme to help subscribers fight Covid-19. Integrated Government Online training’ (iGOT) portal on DIKSHA platform of MHRD (Topic: Government measures to ensure appropriate skills for COVID-19 warriers) Launched to train all healthcare and COVID-19 warriors of India to equip them with the training and updates in coping with Pandemic CSR expenditure related to COVID-19 (Topic: Contribution by companies to uplift the society and assist in the fight agaist COVID-19) Whether contribution made to  ‘PM CARES Fund’ shall qualify as CSR expenditure? Yes,  as CSR expenditure under item no (viii) of Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013 ‘Chief  Minister’s Relief Funds’ or ‘State Relief Fund for COVID-19’ shall qualify as CSR expenditure? Not included in Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013 and therefore NO. State Disaster Management Authority shall qualify as CSR expenditure? Yes Spending of CSR funds for COVID-19 related activities shall qualify as CSR expenditure? Spending CSR funds for COVID-19 related activities shall qualify as CSR expenditure. It is further clarified that funds may be spent for various activities related to COVID-19 under items nos. (i) and (xii) of Schedule VII relating to promotion of health care including preventive health care and sanitation, and disaster management. Self-care Measures by Ministry of AYUSH (Topic: Health; Government measures to ensure well-being for all) Covid -19 Crisis GS-3 Highway Development (Topic: Infrastructure: Roads) NHAI achieves highest ever construction of National Highways in FY 2019-20 since its inception in 1995, under Bharatmala Pariyojana – 3,979 kms Bharatmala Pariyojana: Focuses on optimizing efficiency of freight and passenger movement across the country by bridging critical infrastructure gaps through effective interventions like development of Economic Corridors, Inter Corridors and Feeder Routes, National Corridor Efficiency Improvement, Border and International connectivity roads, Coastal and Port connectivity roads and Green-field expressways.  Objective: Development of about 65,000 km national highways Improvement in efficiency of existing corridors through development of Multimodal Logistics Parks and elimination of choke point Enhance focus on improving connectivity in North East and leveraging synergies with Inland Waterways Emphasis on use of technology & scientific planning for Project Preparation and Asset Monitoring Delegation of powers to expedite project delivery - Phase I to complete by 2022 Improving connectivity in the North East Initiatives that have been taken to revive the stalled projects and expedite completion of new projects: Streamlining of land acquisition and acquisition of major portion of land prior to invitation of bids Award of projects after adequate project preparation in terms of land acquisition, clearances etc. Disposal of cases in respect of Change of Scope (CoS) and Extension of Time (EoT) in a time bound manner Procedure for approval of General Arrangement Drawing for ROBs simplified and made online Close coordination with other Ministries and State Governments One time fund infusion Regular review at various levels and identification/ removal of bottlenecks in project execution Proposed exit for Equity Investors Securitization of road sector loans Disputes Resolution mechanism revamped to avoid delays in completion of projects Management of COVID-19 in National Parks/Sanctuaries/Tiger Reserves (Topic: Government measures to ensure safety of animals from COVID-19) Motive: In view of the spread of COVID 19 in the country and a recent news report on a Tiger being infected with the COVID 19 in New York, the Ministry has felt that there are possibilities of spread of the virus amongst animals in National Parks/Sanctuaries/Tiger Reserves and also transmission of the virus from humans to animals and vice-versa. Reduce the human wildlife interface by restricting the movement of people  Constitute a Task Force/Rapid Action Force with Field Managers, Veterinary doctors, Frontline staff, to manage the situation as quickly as possible. Create a ‘round the clock’ reporting mechanism with a Nodal Officer for swift management of any cases noticed. Set up essential services for emergency treatment of animals and their safe release back to their natural habitats, as and when required. Enhance disease surveillance, mapping and monitoring system through coordinated effort amongst various Departments. Technological Advancement to Fight COVID-19 (Topic: New technological development to fight COVID-19) Genome sequencing: To understand the evolution of the virus, how dynamic is it and how fast it imitates; Whole-genome sequencing is the method used to determine the complete DNA sequence of a specific organism’s genome. Antimicrobial coating: Developed by JNCASR, Bangalore, an autonomous institute under Department of Science & Technology (DST), and has shown excellent results in tackling the spread of deadly influenza virus, the root cause of severe respiratory infections, by inactivating large loads of influenza virus. The coating may be effective in destroying COVID 19 – another enveloped virus upon contact. The technology which is simple and hence do not require skilled personnel for its development is already set to be tested against COVD 19. If found to be active, a number of PPEs, such as masks, gowns, gloves, face shields, used by doctors and nurses can be coated with it, imparting enhanced protection and safety to them. This will aid them to fight the battle against COVID 19 more effectively. NIPER-Guwahati designs innovative 3D products:  Product 1: The first product is a 3D-printed hands-free object that could be used to help open or close doors, windows, drawers (both vertical and horizontal), and refrigerator handle, or press elevator buttons, and laptop/desktop keyboards, including turning the switch buttons on/off. Product 2: The second product is a 3D-printed antimicrobial face-shield to control the spread of novel coronavirus. It was designed after a thorough study to understand how viruses spread through oral, ophthalmic, olfactory and other body cavities. Exploring novel blood plasma therapy for COVID-19  (Topic: New technological development to fight COVID-19) The treatment aims at using the immune power gained by a recovered person to treat a sick person What is convalescent-plasma therapy? When a pathogen like novel coronavirus infects, our immune systems produce antibodies. Like the police dogs, the antibodies span out to identify and mark the invading virus. White blood cells attach the identified intruders, and the body gets rid of the infection.  The therapy, like blood transfusion, harvests the antibody from a recovered patient and ingest into a sick person. Helped by the antibody, the immune system mounts robust combat on the virus.  What are antibodies? Antibodies are one of the front-line immune response to an infection by a microbe. They are a particular type of proteins secreted by immune cells called B lymphocytes when they encounter an invader, such as a novel coronavirus.  The immune system designs antibodies that are highly specific to each invading pathogen. A particular antibody and its partner virus are made for each other. How the treatment is given? Blood is drawn from a person who has recovered from COVID-19 sickness.  The serum is separated and screened for virus-neutralizing antibodies. Convalescent serum, that is the blood serum obtained from one who has recovered from an infectious disease and especially rich in antibodies for that pathogen, is then administered to a COVID-19 patient.  The sick acquires passive immunisation. Potential donor would be examined before the blood serum is extracted and given to a sick person. First, the swab test must be negative and the potential donor has to be declared as cured. Then the recovered person has to wait for two weeks. Or else the potential donor should be asymptomatic for at least 28 days. Either of the two is mandatory  How is it different from vaccination? This therapy is akin to passive immunization. When a vaccine is administrated, the immune system produces the antibodies. Thus, in a later date, when the vaccinated person is infected by that pathogen, the immune system releases the antibodies and neutralise the infection.  Vaccination provides lifelong immunity. In the case of passive antibody therapy, the effect lasts only up to the time the antibodies injected remain the bloodstream. The protection given is temporary.  Is it effective? We have effective antibiotics against bacterial infection. However, we do not have effective antivirals.  Whenever a new viral outbreak takes places, there are no drugs to treat it. Hence, the convalescent serum has been used during past viral epidemics.  During the outbreak of 2009–2010 H1N1 influenza virus pandemic, patients with an infection requiring intensive care were used. After the passive antibody treatment, the serum-treated individuals showed clinical improvement. The viral burden reduced, and the death rate could be lowered. The procedure was also useful during the Ebola outbreak in 2018. Is it safe? With modern blood banking techniques that screen for blood-borne pathogens is robust. It is not difficult to match the blood type of donors and recipients. Therefore the risks of inadvertently transferring known infectious agents or triggering transfusion reactions are low.  How long the antibodies will remain in the recipient? After the antibody serum is given, it will stay on the recipient for at least three to four days. During this period, the sick person will recover. Research reports from the USA and China indicate that the beneficial effect of transfusion plasma is obtained in the first three to four days and not later. What are the Challenges? This therapy is not simple to harness, primarily due to the difficulty of obtaining significant amounts of plasma from survivors. In diseases like COVID-19, where most of the victims are aged, suffering from other medical conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and so on, not all recovered patients can volunteer to donate blood. Prelims oriented News A. Biofortified carrot variety developed by farmer scientist benefits local farmers Madhuban Gajar, a biofortified carrot variety with high β-carotene and iron content developed by Shri Vallabhhai Vasrambhai Marvaniya, a farmer scientist from Junagadh district, Gujarat is benefitting more than 150 local farmers in the area. It is being planted in an area of over 200 hectares in Junagadh, and the average yield, which is 40-50 t/ha, has become the main source of income to the local farmers.  The variety is being cultivated in more than 1000 hectares of land in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh during the last three years. The Madhuvan Gajar is a highly nutritious carrot variety. and among all the varieties tested, beta-carotene and iron content were found to be superior B. The PC&PNDT (Pre Conception and Pre Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection)) Act 1994 has NOT been suspended by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare C. Ionospheric based monitoring of large earthquakes: Scientists of Indian Institute of Geomagnetism (IIG) an autonomous institution of the Department of Science and Technology have extensively studied the signatures of recent large earthquakes into the ionosphere with an ambitious aim to derive the seismic source characteristics from the ionosphere. D. Border Guarding Arrangements, at India - Pakistan and India - Bangladesh borders Vigil on border may be intensified, especially along the unfenced area, to ensure that no cross border movement is allowed Farmers in the border areas must be educated about COVID-19 and the preventive measures to be taken to prevent its spread in these areas E. Sowing of Summer Crops continues uninterrupted Sowing of the Summer Crops has progressed satisfactorily despite the difficulties experienced due to the outbreak of the coronavirus pandemic and the lockdown The total area under the Summer Crops (including Rice, Pulses, Coarse Cereals and Oil Seeds) cultivation has jumped significantly, registering 11.64 lakh hectare increase over last year, overcoming the restrictions and social distancing norms witnessed Among the Summer Crops, the main driver of this growth in cultivable area is Rice, clocking a robust 8.77 lakh ha increase in Sown area.

Apr 14, 2020 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th April 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th April 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) CovidGyan: Multi-institutional, Multi-lingual science communication initiative created Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Science and Technology In News: A multi-institutional, multi-lingual science communication initiative, called `CovidGyan’ has been created to bring the scientific and factual aspects of this pandemic outbreak on to public domain.  Key takeaways: The initiative is the brainchild of Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Indian Institute of Science (IISc), and Tata Memorial Centre (TMC). A website named 'CovidGyan’ was also launched under this initiative.  The website serves as a hub to bring together a collection of resources in response to the COVID-19 outbreak.  The primary objective of the website is to create public awareness and bring in a holistic approach to the understanding of this disease and potential means to mitigate it.  Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act: States demand access to revenue Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Economy In News: Recently, majority of the Chief Ministers demanded increasing the State’s access to revenue under the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act due to crippling shortage of funds.  Important value additions:  Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management (FRBM) Act The FRBM Act, enacted in 2003 by Parliament aims to reduce India's fiscal deficit and improve macroeconomic management. Since then, every Budget includes a Medium Term Fiscal Policy Statement that specifies the annual revenue and fiscal deficit goals over a three-year horizon. The present target is of reducing the fiscal deficit to 3.1% of GDP by March 2023 The Act allows the government to exceed the annual fiscal deficit target under extra-ordinary situations like national security, national calamity. Due to COVID-19 pandemic, the current circumstances would be apt for suspending both the Centre’s and States’ fiscal deficit targets. This would allow both the Union government and States to undertake the much-needed increases in expenditure to meet the extraordinary circumstances. Fiscal deficit It is a shortfall in a government's income compared with its spending.  The government that has a fiscal deficit is spending beyond its means. Miscellaneous  CSR Expenditure  The Ministry of Commerce has clarified that the Chief Minister’s Relief Fund’ or ‘State Relief Fund for COVID-19’ is not included in Schedule VII of the Companies Act, 2013, and therefore any contribution to such funds shall not qualify as admissible CSR expenditure”.  Contribution made to State Disaster Management Authority to combat COVID-19 shall qualify as CSR expenditure.  Primordial Black Holes  They were born as a result of a tiny bump in the potential energy levels of the universe, at a time when it was expanding rapidly. They were formed during the Hot Big Bang phase. It is believed that they are formed as a result of collapsing radiations.  The recent study has confirmed that marginal rise in potential energy resulted in birth of several PBHs and also emitted very powerful gravitational waves. PBH can be massively large or be extremely tiny.  Remdesivir  A recent article showed that the drug candidate remdesivir exhibits promising activity against the COVID-19 causing virus.  It might work well in retarding virus replication.  It was developed by Gilead Sciences as a treatment for Ebola virus disease and Marburg virus infections. Nihang  A group of Nihangs attacked a Punjab police party recently.  Nihang is an order of Sikh warriors, characterised by blue robes, antiquated arms such as swords and spears, and decorated turbans surmounted by steel quoits. Any person irrespective of caste, creed or religion can become Nihang provided he has unshorn hair as per the Sikh traditions at the time of entering the sect.  Their origin can be traced back to the creation of the Khalsa by Guru Gobind Singh in 1699. Nihangs had a major role in defending the Sikh panth after the fall of the first Sikh rule (1710-15).  Their clout came to an end after the fall of Sikh Empire in 1849.  Nihangs today constitute a small community.  Festivals being celebrated all over India Vaisakhi Observed by Sikhs all over the world Vishu Celebrated in Kerala, Tulu Nadu region in Karnataka, bordering areas of Tamil Nadu Rongali Bihu Celebrated by the people of Assam Naba Barsha Celebrated in Bengal Puthandu Tamil Nadu new year  Bharat Padhe Online Launched by Ministry of Human Resource Development, it is a week long campaign for Crowd sourcing of ideas for improving online education ecosystem of India.  (MAINS FOCUS) POLITY/ ETHICS Topic: General Studies 2 & 4: Appointment to various Constitutional posts, powers, functions and responsibilities of various Constitutional Bodies  Philosophical basis of governance and probity  State Election Commission: Threat to its Independence  Context: AP government brought in an Ordinance on April 10th 2020 which led to removal of incumbent State Election Commissioner(SEC) About State Election Commissioner Under 73rd  and 74th constitutional amendment acts, State Election Commissions were created for every state to conduct elections to panchayats and municipalities He/She is appointed by the Governor His conditions of service and tenure of office shall also be determined by the governor. SEC shall be removed from his office in the same manner & ground as a Judge of a High Court A judge of a high court can be removed from his office by the President on the recommendation of the parliament Brief background of the tussle between AP State Government & SEC SEC had postponed the local body elections (to be held on March 15th) citing the COVID-19 outbreak.  AP State government has criticised that SEC did not consult the government while postponing elections  AP State government appealed the decision in SC but the court refused to interfere AP CM also alleged that SEC (appointed by previous government) was acting in nexus with the opposition, to prevent the victory of his party in elections, by postponing it. What were the major changes that was brought through the Ordinance? It reduced the SEC’s tenure from five to three years The criterion for holding SEC office was amended – Only those who served as a High Court judge could occupy the post (earlier it was an officer of the rank of Principal Secretary & above) Consequence of the Ordinance:  Incumbent SEC Mr. Ramesh Kumar – a civil servant and 2016 appointee- was no longer the SEC  Justice Kanagaraj took charge as new SEC Criticisms of the Ordinance Misuse of power by AP CM- with the intention to remove incumbent SEC  Against Article 243K – The article prohibits the variation of any condition of service to the detriment of any incumbent The ordinance amounts to encroaching upon the independence of the Constitutional body, especially in the light of political accusations made against SEC Due Process of Law not followed: government did not give reasons for its sudden decision Danger to Democracy: If the Courts upholds this ordinance then it will be end of free & fair elections  Legality of the Ordinance: State government has no legal right to terminate the SEC’s tenure, as the Constitution makes the holder of that post removable only in the same manner as a High Court judge. What was the basis on which AP issued the ordinance? In Aparmita Prasad Singh vs. State of U.P. (2007), the Allahabad High Court ruled that cessation of tenure does not amount to removal and upheld the SEC’s tenure being cut short. The Supreme Court dismissed the appeal of judgment of HC in this case Critical Analysis of Aparmita Prasad Singh Case The HC judgment seems erroneous, as it gives a complete freedom to the State government to remove an inconvenient SEC by merely changing the tenure or retirement age. Against Legal Principles: It is a well-settled principle in law that what cannot be done directly cannot be done indirectly. Scope for revision: Even though SC dismissed the appeal, it has kept open the legal questions arising from the case Way Forward The government should have waited for the COVID-19 crisis to be over for promulgating such Ordinances The new norm should only apply to the successor SEC, and not the one currently holding the office. Governments should ensure the independence of elections authorities  Connecting the dots: State Finance Commission 73rd and 74th Constitutional Amendment Acts – Critical Analysis JUDICIARY/ GOVERNANCE/ S&T Topic: General Studies 2 & 3: Structure, organization and functioning of the Judiciary  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life. Accessing justice online Due to COVID-19 crisis and the ensuing lockdown to courts, citizens’ access to justice has been severely restricted However, the root problem is the inability of the conventional court system to deliver timely justice.  Do You Know? As of Nov 2019, 43.55 lakh cases were pending in High court and 58,669 cases were pending in the Supreme Court At the district and subordinate court levels, the number of pending cases stand at a 3.14 crore (as of Nov 2019) Nearly 40% of the sanctioned judge strength in Higher Courts is pending (2019) Consequences of Judicial delay in resolving cases Justice denied is equivalent to justice denied Justice will be accessible only to rich as they can afford to withstand the lengthy process Provides scope for emergence of cheaper judicial avenues like Khap Panchayats Erosion of Public trust on Judiciary thus threatening Democratic values However, technology now provides us an opportunity to meet the challenge. Case Study of Kerala High Court On March 30, 2020, it created history by not only conducting proceedings through video conferencing but also live streaming the proceedings. The judges conducted the hearing from their homes and concerned law officers also participated in the proceedings from their respective offices. A blueprint for e-courts Establishment of task force consisting of judges, technologists, court administrators, skill developers and system analysts-  Objective of Taskforce: To draw up a blueprint for institutionalising online access to justice. Responsibilities of taskforce:  Establishing hardware, software and IT systems for courts Establishing appropriate e-filing systems and procedures Skill training of involved stakeholders Examining application of artificial intelligence benefiting from the data base generated through e-courts projects The experience of Kerala High Court can be leveraged to institutionalise the system Way Ahead: Mission mode implementation of e-courts model across the country Awareness among citizens about welfare schemes and their rights which can hold governments accountable Effective implementation of Legal Services Authorities Act of 1987  Connecting the dots: National Judicial Data Grid National Judicial Appointments Commission – Why SC struck it down? (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 CovidGyan: It is a government initiative. Primary objective of the website is to create public awareness. 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 FRBM act:  The present target of reducing the fiscal deficit is 3.1 %  The government may exceed the fiscal deficit target under extra-ordinary circumstances. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 Puthandu is celebrated in which of the following state?  Tamil Nadu  Kerala  Karnataka  Andhra Pradesh Q.4 Consider the following statements regarding Nihang: Any person can become Nihang.  Their origin can be traced back to the creation of Khalsa. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 13th April 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 C 3 A 4 C Must Read About Google and distortion to market: The Hindu About COVID-19’s impact on Economic Choices: The Hindu About how COVID-19 can help us rework relationship between city & village: Indian Express

Apr 14, 2020 Important Articles

Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Speech HIGHLIGHTS today: Coronavirus LOCKDOWN to be EXTENDED till May 3, 2020

Hon’ble PM Shri Narendra Modi Speech HIGHLIGHTS today: Coronavirus LOCKDOWN to be EXTENDED till May 3, 2020   Highlights from Prime Minister's address: The lockdown will be extended till 3rd May, 2020. Till April 20, all districts, localities, states will be closely monitored, as to how strictly they are implementing norms. States which will not let hotspots increase, they could be allowed to let some important activities resume, but with certain conditions. From April 20, those states or areas, which will not allow increase of hotspots or where the possibility of hotposts increasing is less, will see resumption of some essential services. We are moving with great pace on the health infrastructure fund as well. In January, the country only had one lab to test Coronavirus. There are now more than 220 labs working on this front. Tomorrow (15th April), the government will come out of extensive guidelines on the lockdown. I know you have faced many difficulties. Some have faced difficulty with food. Some have faced problems in commuting. While some have been staying away from their houses and family. I know the kind of trouble all of you have been through in this period. But I know, for the country, all of you have worked like a disciplined soldier. I pay my regards to all of you. India has been able to contain the spread and ill-effects of Coronavirus due to your patience. All of you have suffered to save the nation. The new year has started in several states in the entire country. The way people are observing the lockdown is inspiring and commendable. I wish you and your family good health on this new year. Even when India did not have a single corona patient, India had begun screening passengers from Covid-19 affected countries If India had not adopted holistic, integrated approach, had not taken quick decision then India's situation would have been different. However, observations and results of the last few days have shown that the road we took was right. India has reaped the benefits of social distancing and lockdown. We have paid economic cost for it too. But it is nothing compared to the cost of the lives of Indians. People who earn every day and fulfill their needs, they are my family as well. It is one of my priorities to reduce their problems. The PM underlined that the motto of the government earlier was 'jaan hai to jahaan hai' but now it is 'jaan bhi jahaan bhi'. #stayhomestaysafe #IndiaFightsCorona   For the right information refer the authentic source - https://www.mohfw.gov.in/ https://www.mygov.in/covid-19/  

Apr 14, 2020 Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent and Creativity

Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity: SKETCHING by TARUNA DAGAR!

Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity: SKETCHING by TARUNA DAGAR!   Hello Friends, You must be aware of the term ‘catharsis’. It is the process of releasing and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions. Recently we have launched a new initiative by the name Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity! Today's work is SKETCHING by Taruna Dagar. Well done, Keep it up !! Check out some of the amazing Sketches by Taruna.       Be creative and find your catharsis in whichever form of creativity you are comfortable with.  It could be anything- a song, a painting, a poem, a story, a dance performance, rangolis, jokes/humor, culinary skills, mimicry and whatnot. There is no limit to creativity. Just unleash and share it with everyone! Why don’t you share your moments of catharsis with us? UPSC is not only about academics but personality as well. And your personality is shaped by the creativity that you possess.   To know more about Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity' Initiative and the Previous Creative work  -> CLICK HERE We encourage you to keep the comment section alive by sharing your talents and also by commenting and encouraging the talent of your peers. We are also going to be a regular visitor here and will keep on posting the creative works by our talented team members and staff. NOTE- You can also nominate by tagging anyone (if you know about the talent of your friend or anyone) 🙂 You can share your talent/creativity with us on support@iasbaba.com and ilp@iasbaba.com  P.S: Kindly share it in a format that can be published on the website. We believe each one of you have some hidden talent. It’s time that you explore more about yourselves and remain positive throughout this journey. Make the best use of this opportunity! Thank You IASbaba

Apr 14, 2020 60 DAYS PROGRAMME-PRELIMS 2020

IASbaba’s 60 Day Plan [Day - 38]- IAS Prelims Test Series 2020 POLITY & CURRENT AFFAIRS

ARCHIVES OF 60 DAY PLAN STRATEGY [VIDEO]: UPSC IAS Preparation Guidance/Tips from Mohan Sir  Dear Students, The 60 Days Training has finally begun:) DAY 38 is here! It is time to Introspect, Ideate and Improve!! We have come-up with articles to instil confidence, motivate you in the present situation. Do read these articles. Mark the words/lines in your dairy. These very lines can be the driving force’ in the time of uncertainty. [STRATEGY] MUST READ: 21 Days of Lockdown-What to do? Introspect, Ideate and Improve !! MUST READ: PRELIMS in Testing Times – Don’t Forget the ‘WHY’; IASbaba’s dedicated HOTLINE for Aspirants and Prelims Postponing Rumours Coronavirus[VIDEO]: Awareness, Myths, Solidarity and Message to All UPSC Aspirants by Mohan Sir Founder IASbaba   To ensure that your preparation goes smoothly and keeping up with our promise, we have come up with a Dedicated HOTLINE (Communication channel) - Connect with BABA for all UPSC/IAS Aspirants. From today, you will be able to speak with the Founders and Core Team of IASbaba on telephone regarding ‘any queries’ related to UPSC preparation in general or Subject-specific doubts. This Hotline, will be in addition to the 'ASK YOUR BABA' (#ASKBABA) thread opened on a daily basis for our 60 Day plan. We will try to make sure that with so much going around these days, you have at least one less thing to worry about.   How to make use of HOTLINE and ASK YOUR BABA (#ASKBABA)? There are 2 initiatives which will be running parallely. 1. HOTLINE - Connect with BABA (5pm - 7pm) The communication channel will be open ONLY for 2 hours Daily (except on Sundays - holiday) from 5pm to 7 pm. Please do not make calls before or after the specified time. As we will be occupied with other daily initiatives running on the website and mentorship. Hope you understand our time constraints. Please note that, call facilities are mainly for queries related to preparation per se like strategies, difficulties in reading a subject, what to read, what not to read, how to manage time, revision, motivation etc. You can call on the numbers given below. For any queries related to - UPSC Preparation (Prelims, Mains, Interview) Strategy & Current Affairs – contact 9986190082 Environment & Science and Technology – contact 9986193016 Polity & Economics – contact 9899291288 Geography & History – contact 9591106864 We have separated General Strategy (Preparation per se – Pre, Mains, Interview) and Current Affairs from other subjects. You can make use of the HOTLINE, as per your needs.   2. ASK YOUR BABA (#ASKBABA) - clear your doubts on the 60 Day Platform (Online from 11 am - 10 pm) Use the disqus comment section of that particular day (60 Day post - For Ex: Today is Day 25) to clear all your subject specific doubts of the day. You can post your queries/doubts with #ASKBABA !! Here, doubts related to the 60 day questions or conceptual clarity in a particular subject can be asked. Your doubts will be cleared on real-time basis (or max within hour it will be answered from the subject experts) If you are genuinely finding difficulty interms of preparing with that particular subject, then you can use 5pm-7pm window to make calls. If you are not able to speak to IASbaba's Team, then you can still post your doubts/queries in the same post of the 60 day initiative. As mentioned above, your doubts will be cleared on real-time basis (or max within hour it will be answered from the subject experts). Make the best use of the communication channel (Ask Your Baba/comment section on daily 60 Day post and calls) provided. We will make sure that, all your queries will be answered to. So we have  tried our bit, to ensure your preparation goes smoothly, you can do your bit by keeping in touch with us via phone/ website to keep yourself going, keep yourself engaged and staying positive during the rough times.   How to make the maximum use of this HOTLINE and #ASKBABA (Disqus comment of 60 Day Plan) on Daily basis? Now, that I have solved 30 mcq’s, what to do next?  How to Analyse my Performance? For Answers to the above Questions  ->CONNECT WITH BABA: IASbaba’s Dedicated HOTLINE for UPSC/IAS Aspirants !!   Note- Download the OMR Sheet and attempt the questions exactly like UPSC Prelims. After you are done, please post your OMR in the comment section. Once the solution key is released (5 PM), cross-check the answers and again, comment the marks (you got) in the same comment thread. This will keep you responsible and sincere in days to come. Also, we need more sets of scores for releasing the cut offs in the night so, requesting all of you to sincerely put your scores in comment section.    You can also take part in discussion with peers.   Q.1) Which of the following provisions ensure independence of Supreme Court in India? Appointment of judges by President in consultation with the judiciary Expenses Charged on Consolidated Fund of India Judges can be removed only by the Chief Justice of India Conduct of judges can be discussed only in the Parliament Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 2 and 4 1,2 and 4 All of the above Q.1) निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा प्रावधान, भारत में सर्वोच्च न्यायालय की स्वतंत्रता सुनिश्चित करता है? न्यायपालिका के परामर्श से राष्ट्रपति द्वारा न्यायाधीशों की नियुक्ति व्ययों का भारत के समेकित कोष पर भारित होना   न्यायाधीशों को केवल भारत के मुख्य न्यायाधीश द्वारा हटाया जा सकता है न्यायाधीशों के आचरण पर केवल संसद में चर्चा हो सकती है नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 2 और 4 1,2 और 4 उपरोक्त सभी Q.2) Consider the following statements regarding advisory jurisdiction of Supreme Court The Supreme Court on any matter may tender or may refuse to tender its opinion to the president. The opinion expressed by the Supreme Court is only advisory. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के सलाहकारी क्षेत्राधिकार के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें किसी भी मामले पर सर्वोच्च न्यायालय राष्ट्रपति को राय दे सकता है या अपनी राय देने से इंकार कर सकता है। सर्वोच्च न्यायालय द्वारा व्यक्त की गई राय केवल सलाहकारी होती है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2 1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.3) As a Court of Record, which of the following powers have been bestowed upon the Supreme Court? The recorded judgments of Supreme Court cannot be questioned when produced before any court. Supreme Court has power to punish for contempt of court Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) अभिलेख-न्यायालय (Court of Record) के रूप में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सी शक्तियाँ सर्वोच्च न्यायालय को प्रदान की गई हैं? सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के अभिलिखित किए गए निर्णयों पर प्रश्न नहीं किया जा सकता है, जब किसी भी न्यायालय में प्रस्तुत किया जाता है। सर्वोच्च न्यायालय को न्यायालय की अवमानना के लिए दंडित करने की शक्ति है नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2 1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements regarding National Emergency Proclamation of emergency can survive beyond 6 months without approval from both the houses. It can be revoked by the President without Parliamentary approval. It has been proclaimed only once in India, post 1975. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 All of the above Q.4) राष्ट्रीय आपातकाल (National emergency) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें आपातकाल की घोषणा दोनों सदनों से अनुमोदन के बिना 6 महीने से अधिक बनी रह सकती है। इसे संसदीय स्वीकृति के बिना राष्ट्रपति द्वारा निरस्त किया जा सकता है। इसे भारत में 1975 के बाद केवल एक बार घोषित किया गया है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 1 और 3 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.5) Which of the following statements regarding National Emergency are incorrect? The state governments might be suspended while emergency is in operation. The laws made by Parliament on the state subjects during a National Emergency remain in operation even after the emergency has ceased to operate. During the emergency, the President can cancel the transfer of finances from Centre to the states without approval of Parliament. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 All of the above Q.5) राष्ट्रीय आपातकाल (National emergency) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा कथन गलत है? राज्य सरकारें निलंबित हो सकती हैं, जब आपातकालीन स्थिति संचलन में हो। राष्ट्रीय आपातकाल के दौरान राज्य के विषयों पर संसद द्वारा बनाए गए कानून, आपातकाल की समाप्ति के बाद भी परिचालन में रहते हैं। आपातकाल के दौरान, राष्ट्रपति संसद की मंजूरी के बिना केंद्र से राज्यों को वित्त हस्तांतरण को रद्द कर सकता है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 1 और 3 2 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.6) Consider the following statements regarding effect of National emergency on fundamental rights When a proclamation of national emergency is made, the six Fundamental Rights under Article 19 are automatically suspended. Article 20 and 21 remain enforceable during emergency. The legislative and executive actions taken during the emergency cannot be challenged even after the Emergency ceases to operate. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 2 only 1 and 3 All of the above Q.6) मौलिक अधिकारों पर राष्ट्रीय आपातकाल के प्रभाव के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें जब राष्ट्रीय आपातकाल की घोषणा की जाती है, तो अनुच्छेद 19 के तहत छह मौलिक अधिकार स्वतः निलंबित हो जाते हैं। अनुच्छेद 20 और 21 आपातकाल के दौरान भी लागू रहते हैं। आपातकाल के दौरान ली गई विधायी और कार्यकारी कार्रवाइयों को आपातकाल के बाद भी चुनौती नहीं दी जा सकती है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 केवल 2 1 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.7) Consider the following statements regarding President’s rule President’s rule can be imposed when a state fails to comply with the direction from the Centre. A resolution approving the proclamation of President’s Rule can be passed by either House of Parliament only by a simple majority. The Parliament passes the state budget during imposition of President’s rule. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.7) राष्ट्रपति शासन (President’s rule) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें राष्ट्रपति शासन तब लागू किया जा सकता है, जब कोई राज्य केंद्र से निर्देश का पालन करने में विफल रहता है। राष्ट्रपति शासन की घोषणा को मंजूरी देने वाला प्रस्ताव संसद के किसी भी सदन द्वारा केवल साधारण बहुमत से पारित किया जा सकता है। संसद राष्ट्रपति शासन लगने के दौरान, राज्य बजट पारित करती है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 2 और 3 1 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.8) Consider the following statements regarding President’s rule During imposition of the President’s rule, state executive is dismissed and state legislature is either suspended or dissolved. Lok Sabha should pass a resolution for revocation of the President’s rule. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.8) राष्ट्रपति शासन के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें राष्ट्रपति शासन लागू होने के दौरान, राज्य कार्यपालिका को बर्खास्त कर दिया जाता है तथा राज्य विधायिका या तो निलंबित या भंग कर दी जाती है। राष्ट्रपति शासन के निरसन के लिए लोकसभा को प्रस्ताव पारित करना होता है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2 1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.9) Consider the following statements regarding Financial Emergency It can be continued indefinitely but requires the approval of Parliament every year. During its operation, the Centre acquires full control over the states in financial matters. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.9) वित्तीय आपातकाल (Financial Emergency) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें इसे अनिश्चित काल तक जारी रखा जा सकता है, लेकिन इसके लिए प्रत्येक वर्ष संसद की मंजूरी की आवश्यकता होती है। इसके संचालन के दौरान, केंद्र राज्यों के वित्तीय मामलों पर पूर्ण नियंत्रण प्राप्त कर लेता है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2 1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.10) The Supreme Court in Bommai case (1994) enlisted the situations where the exercise of power under Article 356 could be proper or improper. Which of the following situations amount to proper imposition of President’s rule in a state? Hung assembly Maladministration Disregard of constitutional directions given by the Central government Stringent financial exigencies Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 3 2 and 3 1, 3 and 4 All of the above Q.10) बोम्मई मामले (1994) में सर्वोच्च न्यायालय ने उन स्थितियों को सूचीबद्ध किया, जहां अनुच्छेद 356 के तहत शक्ति का प्रयोग उचित या अनुचित हो सकता है। किसी राज्य में राष्ट्रपति शासन लागू करने के लिए निम्नलिखित में से कौन सी स्थितियाँ हैं? त्रिशंकु विधानसभा (Hung assembly) कुशासन (Maladministration) केंद्र सरकार द्वारा दिए गए संवैधानिक निर्देशों की अवहेलना कठोर वित्तीय अनिवार्यता (Stringent financial exigencies) नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 3 2 और 3 1,3 और 4 उपरोक्त सभी Q.11) Consider the following statements regarding Supreme Court It has the original, exclusive and final authority in deciding the disputes regarding the election of the President and the Vice President. Its jurisdiction and powers with respect to matters in the Union list can be enlarged by the Parliament. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.11) सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें इसके पास राष्ट्रपति और उपराष्ट्रपति के चुनाव के विवादों का निर्णय करने का मूल, अनन्य और अंतिम अधिकार है। संघ सूची में मामलों के संबंध में इसके अधिकार क्षेत्र और शक्तियां संसद द्वारा विस्तारित की जा सकती हैं। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2 1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.12) Consider the following statements regarding Supreme Court of India Unlike Supreme Court of USA, Supreme Court in India has wide discretion to grant special leave to appeal in any matter against the judgement of any court or tribunal. Unlike in USA, scope of judicial review by Supreme Court in India is very wide. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.12) भारत के सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें यूएसए के सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के विपरीत, भारत में सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के पास किसी भी न्यायालय या न्यायाधिकरण के निर्णय के खिलाफ किसी भी मामले में अपील करने के लिए विशेष अवकाश (special leave) देने का व्यापक विवेकाधिकार है। यूएसए के विपरीत, भारत में सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के पास न्यायिक समीक्षा का दायरा अधिक व्यापक है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें केवल 1 केवल 2 1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.13) According to the Indian Constitution, scope of judicial review is limited to Infringement of Fundamental rights Law is outside the competence of the authority which has framed it Question of reasonableness, suitability or policy implications Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.13) भारतीय संविधान के अनुसार, न्यायिक समीक्षा का दायरा कहाँ तक सीमित है मौलिक अधिकारों का उल्लंघन कानून, उस प्राधिकरण की सक्षमता से बाहर है, जिसने उसे बनाया है तर्कशीलता, उपयुक्तता या नीतिगत निहितार्थ का प्रश्न नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 2 और 3 1 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.14) In accordance with the Supreme Court guidelines, petitions belonging to which of the following categories alone can be entertained as PIL? Petitions against atrocities on women Petitions pertaining to environmental pollution Petitions for early hearing of cases pending in High Courts and Subordinate Courts Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.14) सर्वोच्च न्यायालय के दिशा-निर्देशों के अनुसार, निम्नलिखित में से किस श्रेणी से संबंधित याचिकाएं पीआईएल के रूप में स्वीकार की जा सकती हैं? महिलाओं पर अत्याचार के विरुद्ध याचिकाएँ पर्यावरण प्रदूषण से संबंधित याचिकाएँ उच्च न्यायालयों और अधीनस्थ न्यायालयों में लंबित मामलों की त्वरित सुनवाई के लिए याचिकाएँ नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 2 और 3 1 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.15) Consider the following statements with respect to high courts in India The Parliament can extend the jurisdiction of a high court to any union territory. The Parliament can exclude the jurisdiction of a high court from any union territory. The Parliament determines the strength of high court from time to time. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.15) भारत में उच्च न्यायालयों के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें संसद उच्च न्यायालय के क्षेत्राधिकार को किसी भी केंद्र शासित प्रदेश तक विस्तारित कर सकती है। संसद उच्च न्यायालय के क्षेत्राधिकार को किसी भी केंद्र शासित प्रदेश से समाप्त कर सकती है। संसद समय-समय पर उच्च न्यायालय की सदस्य संख्या (strength) का निर्धारण करती है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 2 और 3 1 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.16) Which of the following are the qualifications prescribed in the Constitution for a judge of High Court? He should be a citizen of India. He should have completed 35 years of age. He should have been an advocate of a high court for ten years. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.16) उच्च न्यायालय के न्यायाधीश के लिए, निम्नलिखित में से कौन-सी योग्यता संविधान में निर्धारित है? वह भारत का नागरिक होना चाहिए। उसे 35 वर्ष की आयु पूरी करनी चाहिए। उसे दस वर्ष के लिए उच्च न्यायालय का अधिवक्ता होना चाहिए। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 2 और 3 1 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.17) Consider the following statements with respect to high courts in India The judges of a high court are appointed by the Governor in consultation with the chief justice of India and the chief justice of the high court. The salaries of judges can be changed to their disadvantage after their appointment during financial emergency. The salaries and allowances of the judges are charged on the consolidated fund of the state. Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.17) भारत में उच्च न्यायालयों के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें एक उच्च न्यायालय के न्यायाधीशों को भारत के मुख्य न्यायाधीश और उच्च न्यायालय के मुख्य न्यायाधीश के परामर्श से राज्यपाल द्वारा नियुक्त किया जाता है। वित्तीय आपातकाल के दौरान, न्यायाधीशों के वेतन को उनकी नियुक्ति के बाद कम किया जा सकता है। न्यायाधीशों के वेतन और भत्ते, राज्य के समेकित निधि पर भारित होते हैं। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 2 और 3 1 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.18) In which of the following cases, high courts enjoy original jurisdiction in India? Disputes relating to the election of members of Parliament Enforcement of fundamental rights of citizens Matters of marriage and divorce Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.18) निम्नलिखित में से किस मामले में, उच्च न्यायालय भारत में मूल क्षेत्राधिकार (original jurisdiction) का आनंद लेते हैं? संसद के सदस्यों के चुनाव से संबंधित विवाद नागरिकों के मौलिक अधिकारों का प्रवर्तन शादी और तलाक के मामले नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 2 और 3 1 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.19) Primary functions of Legal Services Authorities, established under the National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) are To provide free legal services to the eligible persons To organize Lok Adalats To organize legal awareness camps in the rural areas Choose the correct answer using codes below 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.19) राष्ट्रीय विधिक सेवा प्राधिकरण (NALSA) के तहत स्थापित कानूनी सेवा प्राधिकरणों के प्राथमिक कार्य हैं पात्र व्यक्तियों को मुफ्त कानूनी सेवाएं प्रदान करना लोक अदालतों का आयोजन करना ग्रामीण क्षेत्रों में कानूनी जागरूकता शिविर आयोजित करना नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें 1 और 2 2 और 3 1 और 3 उपरोक्त सभी Q.20) Which of the following statement regarding Lok Adalats is incorrect? The award by the Lok Adalat is binding on the parties. The Lok Adalat has the same powers as are vested in a Civil Court. Appeal against the award of the Lok Adalat lies in the High Court. All of the above are correct. Q.20) लोक अदालतों के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा कथन गलत है? लोक अदालत द्वारा दिए गए निर्णय पक्षकारों पर बाध्यकारी होते हैं। लोक अदालत के पास वैसी ही शक्तियां हैं, जैसी कि एक सिविल कोर्ट में निहित होती हैं। लोक अदालत द्वारा दिए गए निर्णय के विरुद्ध अपील उच्च न्यायालय में निहित होती है। उपरोक्त सभी सही हैं। Q.21) With reference to National Strategy for Financial Inclusion (NSFI), consider the following statements: The strategy aims to strengthen the ecosystem for various modes of digital financial services in all Tier-II to Tier VI centers. It is released by NITI Aayog. To make the Public Credit Registry fully operational by 2022 is one of the objectives of the strategy. Which of the statements given above is/are INCORRECT?  1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only Q.21) वित्तीय समावेशन के लिए राष्ट्रीय रणनीति (NSFI) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: रणनीति का लक्ष्य सभी टियर- II से टियर VI केंद्रों में डिजिटल वित्तीय सेवाओं के विभिन्न तरीकों के पारिस्थितिकी तंत्र को मजबूत करना है। इसे नीति आयोग द्वारा जारी किया गया है। सार्वजनिक क्रेडिट रजिस्ट्री का 2022 तक पुर्णतः परिचालन रणनीति के उद्देश्यों में से एक है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा गलत है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 2  केवल 2 और 3 केवल 1 और 3 Q.22) The One Trillion Trees Initiative was launched recently by which of the following? Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCCD) The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) World Economic Forum (WEF) Q.22) ‘एक ट्रिलियन वृक्ष पहल’ (One Trillion Trees Initiative), हाल ही में निम्न में से किसके द्वारा आरंभ किया गया था? खाद्य और कृषि संगठन (FAO) संयुक्त राष्ट्र मरुस्थलीकरण रोकथाम अभिसमय (UNCCCD) प्रकृति के संरक्षण के लिए अंतर्राष्ट्रीय संघ (IUCN) विश्व आर्थिक मंच (WEF) Q.23) India signed the Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement with which of the following? Russia France Japan Canada Q.23) भारत ने निम्नलिखित में से किसके साथ प्रवासन और गतिशीलता साझेदारी समझौते (Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement) पर हस्ताक्षर किए हैं? रूस फ्रांस जापान कनाडा Q.24) Consider the following statements about TrueNat Test: It is an indigenous molecular diagnostic tool for tuberculosis diagnosis. It is a polymerase chain reaction (PCR)-based test which can also detect drug resistance with the use of chips. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only  Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.24) ट्रूनेट टेस्ट (TrueNat Test) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: यह तपेदिक निदान के लिए एक स्वदेशी आणविक नैदानिक उपकरण है। यह एक पोलीमरेज़ चेन रिएक्शन (polymerase chain reaction -PCR) आधारित परीक्षण है, जो चिप् के उपयोग से दवा प्रतिरोध का भी पता लगा सकता है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.25) Consider the following pairs:       Buddhist monastic sites State    1. Moghalmari Uttar Pradesh    2. Bojjannakonda Andhra Pradesh    3. Lingalametta Karnataka    Which of the pairs given above are incorrectly matched? 1 and 3 only 1 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.25) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                               बौद्ध मठ स्थल                                 राज्य    1. मोघलमारी                              उत्तर प्रदेश    2. बोज्जनकोंडा                                आंध्र प्रदेश    3. लिंगलामेत्ता                                कर्नाटक   ऊपर दी गई कौन सी जोड़ी गलत तरीके से मेल खाती है? केवल 1 और 3 केवल 1 केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.26) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Mission Innovation’. It is a global initiative of 24 countries and the European Union to accelerate global clean energy innovation. It was launched during the 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference (CoP 21). Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.26) 'मिशन इनोवेशन' (Mission Innovation) के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। यह वैश्विक स्वच्छ ऊर्जा नवाचार में तेजी लाने के लिए 24 देशों और यूरोपीय संघ की एक वैश्विक पहल है। यह 2015 के संयुक्त राष्ट्र जलवायु परिवर्तन सम्मेलन (CoP 21) के दौरान लॉन्च किया गया था। सही कथनों का चयन करें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.27) The ‘Corruption Perceptions Index’ is brought out by the World Economic Forum World Bank Transparency International International Court of Justice Q.27) ‘भ्रष्टाचार धारणा सूचकांक’ किसके द्वारा प्रकाशित किया जाता है विश्व आर्थिक मंच विश्व बैंक ट्रांसपेरेंसी इंटरनेशनल अंतर्राष्ट्रीय न्यायालय Q.28) Which of the following statements is most appropriated with respect to ‘Juice Jacking’. It is a process in which transactions for various forms of cryptocurrency are verified and added to the blockchain digital ledger. It is a type of cyber-attack involving a charging port that doubles as a data connection, typically over USB. It is the act of pretending to be someone you are not online, in order to lure someone you've never met into a relationship. It is the fraudulent attempt to obtain sensitive information such as usernames, passwords and credit card details by disguising oneself as a trustworthy entity in an electronic communication.  Q.28) ‘जूस जैकिंग’ (Juice Jacking) के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा कथन सबसे उपयुक्त है। यह एक प्रक्रिया है, जिसमें क्रिप्टोक्यूरेंसी के विभिन्न रूपों के लिए लेनदेन को सत्यापित किया जाता है तथा ब्लॉकचेन डिजिटल लेज़र में जोड़ा जाता है। यह एक प्रकार का साइबर-हमला है जिसमें एक चार्जिंग पोर्ट शामिल होता है, जैसे आमतौर पर USB, जिस पर डेटा कनेक्शन को दोगुना कर देता है। यह किसी ऐसे व्यक्ति का दिखावा करने की क्रिया है जैसे आप ऑनलाइन नहीं हैं, ऐसे किसी व्यक्ति को लुभाने के लिए जिससे आप कभी किसी संबंध में नहीं रहे। यह एक इलेक्ट्रॉनिक संचार में भरोसेमंद इकाई के रूप में अपने आप को छिपाने के द्वारा उपयोगकर्ता का नाम, पासवर्ड और क्रेडिट कार्ड विवरण जैसी संवेदनशील जानकारी प्राप्त करने का धोखाधड़ी का प्रयास है। Q.29) 'N Chandrasekaran Commitee' was constituted to look into Artificial Intelligence 3D Printing Big Data Algorithm Trading Q.29) 'एन चंद्रशेखरन समिति' का गठन किस कार्य को देखने के किया गया था कृत्रिम बुद्धिमत्ता  3 डी प्रिंटिग बिग डाटा एल्गोरिथम ट्रेडिंग (Algorithm Trading) Q.30) Consider the following statements Lithium-Sulphur (Li-s) batteries store considerably more energy than the Lithium-ion (Li-ion) batteries. Li-S batteries are generally considered to be the successors of the Li-ion batteries because of their lower cost of production, energy efficiency and improved safety. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.30) निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें लिथियम-सल्फर (Li-s) बैटरी लिथियम-आयन (Li-ion) बैटरी की तुलना में काफी अधिक ऊर्जा स्टोर करती है। लिथियम-सल्फर (Li-s) बैटरी को आमतौर पर उत्पादन की कम लागत, ऊर्जा दक्षता और बेहतर सुरक्षा के कारण लिथियम-आयन (Li-ion) बैटरी की उत्तराधिकारी माना जाता है। सही कथनों का चयन करें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 DOWNLOAD THE SOLUTION ENGLISH HINDI NOTE- Follow this for Comments Mention- Time Taken after solving the Test After the release of Solution Edit your Comment to Mention-  Correct/Incorrect and Score 2 Marks for Correct/0.66 minus for Incorrect. DOWNLOAD THE 60 DAYS PLAN 2020  PRELIMS EXCLUSIVE CURRENT AFFAIRS CLASSES (12 SESSIONS-By Tauseef Sir): STARTING 15 APRIL- JOIN NOW! All the Best! IASbaba

Apr 13, 2020 RSTV Video

Virtual Courts and Way forward – The Big Picture – RSTV IAS UPSC

Virtual Courts and Way forward Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Judiciary; new developments World post COVID-19 In News: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the legal fraternity of India. Following the imposition of the 21-day Coronavirus lockdown, starting with the Supreme Court, many High Courts and subordinate courts have suspended work for the next three weeks or have notified minimal sitting.  The Supreme Court has passed directions for all courts across the country to extensively use video-conferencing for judicial proceedings saying congregation of lawyers and litigants must be suspended to maintain social distancing amid the coronavirus pandemic.  The top court, which has restricted its functioning and is conducting hearing through video conferencing since March 25, exercised its plenary power to direct all high courts to frame a mechanism for use of technology during the pandemic.  A bench headed by the Chief Justice stressed that "technology is here to stay". It also resolved to institutionalise e-processes even after normalcy returns. The work of the courts is a vital public service The top court on March 23 had held a successful trial of its functioning through video-conferencing and three matters were heard virtually in which judges sat in the courtroom while advocates argued from a different spot in the apex court. In a deviation from regular practice, the High Courts of Bombay and Karnataka issued notifications adopting virtual courts using video conferencing facilities on March 17 and 21. It was done to utilise the advances in the information and communications technology to deliver justice at a crucial time and under unprecedented circumstances. The Supreme Court, through its Secretary General Sanjeev Kalgaonkar, on March 23, also notified the use of “Vidyo” app for facilitating hearings via video-conferencing. It is believed that upon request by Senior Advocate Abhishek Manu Singhvi, the Court was willing to extend the video-conferencing facilities even to the offices of counsel. The Court has also kept alternative options of apps and platforms such as WhatsApp, Facetime, and Skype open as well in case of network linkage issues. "It was a very enriching experience and I think it is going to be the order of the day for the future. What was amazing was that there was absolutely no hitch or any break and the 45 minutes long hearing went on absolutely smoothly." – Senior Counsel KV Vishwanathan The Challenges The use of video and audio enabled hearings have also faced significant legal and practical problems including admissibility and authenticity of the evidence received through the video and/or audio transmissions, the identity of the witness and/or individuals subject of the hearings, the confidentiality of the hearings. Other challenges might be poor quality of internet connection, poor and outdated the audio and video equipment, power cuts, inability to establish connection at the agreed time, inability for multi-party to partake especially involving interpreters and vulnerable witnesses. Face-to-face contact is essential to build trust and develop relationships. Guilt or innocence is not, as many would have it, simply a case of knowing whether you did the act alleged. There are also mental elements to to consider, such as the perpetrator's intention. Defences such as duress or reasonable excuse may require the defendant to reveal delicate or personal information – they may not feel comfortable doing so to a stranger over a video link, while sitting in a cramped room in a police station. The Pros Saves significant court costs in terms of building, staff, infrastructure, security, transportation costs for all parties to the court proceedings, especially transfer of prisoners from jails. What is happening around the world? In a letter to his colleagues on March 24, Chief Justice of the Republic of South Africa Mogoeng Mogoeng emphasized that the courts “have to stay open in case members of the public want to bring one challenge or another in relation to the constitutionality or validity of the measures being implemented”. The United Kingdom is bringing in emergency legislation, The Coronavirus Bill (2020), to expand the use of the video and audio link to variety of different proceedings including allowing the public to participate in court and tribunal proceedings through audio and video, so as to alleviate any concerns surrounding the issues of open and fair justice. The Way Forward Going forward, it needs to be cons idered carefully by the Supreme Court of India and the Law Commission of India whether relevant rules and in the High Courts as well as in the lower courts can be amended so that video and audio enabled hearings can be take place for the benefit of the public even beyond the COVID-19 lockdown period. The way forward can be considering the following measures –   Significant investment in court and IT infrastructure Clear classification of cases that can be taken care of in the virtual space Records of the existing ongoing cases will have to be digitised. Case-management systems will need to be modified or replaced to allow for new technology and remote access. Records of the proceedings need to be taken care of in terms of its dissemination More importantly, we should still remember that, at no given circumstances, should speed be equated to efficiency, and efficiency is promoted over justice. Connecting the Dots: What do you think will the court rooms of the future entail?