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Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 21st February 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 21st February 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Bank recapitalisation and Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Government policies and interventions; Indian Economy and issues relating to it In news: The Centre has approved a recapitalisation package of ₹48,239 crore for 12 public sector banks. Bank recapitalisation means recapitalising banks with new capital to improve their balance sheet. The government, using different instruments, infuses capital into banks undergoing credit crunch. Capital is the money invested by shareholders in the business. Since the government is the biggest shareholder in public sector banks, the responsibility of infusing capital majorly lies with the government. The recapitalisation plan comes into action when banks get caught in a situation where their liabilities are comparatively higher than their assets. Objectives of Bank recapitalisation: To bring the better-performing banks now in the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) category out of the restrictive framework. To help those banks that had come out of the PCA to stay out of it. To equip non-PCA banks to meet regulatory requirements. To help the PCA banks to meet their requirements. Important Value Additions: What is RBI's Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework? RBI introduces Prompt Corrective Action when the Bank’s financial conditions worsen below certain limits. The limits are based on three conventional financial indicators – CRAR (capital to risk weighted assets ratio), Net NPA and Return on Assets. Whenever the Bank is in the PCA category, the RBI will intervene with corrective action. PCA norms allow the regulator to place certain restrictions such as halting branch expansion and stopping dividend payment. It can even cap a bank’s lending limit to one entity or sector. The parameters that invite corrective action from the central bank are: Capital to Risk weighted Asset Ratio (CRAR) Net Non-Performing Assets (NPA) and Return on Assets (RoA) Leverage ratio Wuzhen meet and India-Saudi ties Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – India and the World; International Relations In news: India and China are expected to hold their first high-level talks on the Pulwama terror attack. External Affairs Minister to meet her counterparts from Beijing and Moscow in Wuzhen. India pitches for global action against terrorism India pitched for global action against terrorism while welcoming the Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visit to India. Saudi Arabia agreed to share intelligence with India and other countries that were willing to fight terrorism. Both countries urged for early adoption of the UN Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism and pitched for “comprehensive sanctioning of terrorists and their organisations by the UN.” Both sides also resolved to create a “Comprehensive Security Dialogue” consisting of National Security Advisers and set up a Joint Working Group on Counter Terrorism. Both sides also launched a Strategic Partnership Council that will be led by the Prime Minister and the Crown Prince. During the visit of Mohammed Bin Salman, Saudi Arabia joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA). Miscellaneous: Facts about Election ink Key facts: Electoral ink, indelible ink, electoral stain or phosphoric ink is a semi-permanent ink or dye that is applied to the forefinger (usually) of voters during elections in order to prevent electoral fraud such as double voting. Mysore Paints and Varnish Limited is the only company in India authorised to produce indelible ink, which is used in elections to prevent people from voting multiple times. The company is owned and operated by the Government of Karnataka. Do you know? The ink is also exported to countries like Thailand, Singapore, Nigeria, Malaysia and South Africa. Election ink uses silver nitrate, and excessive exposure can cause argyria. Ghost nets, plastics pose threat to seabirds In news: The unprecedented August 2018 flood in Kerala has washed out a huge amount of plastics from the land and rivers into the ocean, threatening marine life and underwater ecosystems. Migratory birds are also victims of the discarded plastic. The sight of seabirds ingesting plastics is on the increase in Kerala, especially during November to February when migratory species visit the State. Animal in news: Lesser black-backed gull It is a large gull that breeds on the Atlantic coasts of Europe. It is migratory, wintering from the British Isles south to West Africa. It is a regular winter visitor to the east coast of North America, probably from the breeding population in Iceland. It is also called as Heuglin’s Gull. It breeds in the tundra of northern Russia and migrates south to southwest Asia, including India, during winter. IUCN Status: Least Concern Animal in news: Lesser crested tern It is a winter visitor to Kerala. It breeds in subtropical coastal parts of the world mainly from the Red Sea across the Indian Ocean to the western Pacific, and Australia, with a significant population on the southern coast of the Mediterranean on two islands off the Libyan coast. IUCN Status: Least Concern Aero India 2019 Key pointers: 12th edition of the biennial international military and civil expo and air show was held in Bangalore. Defence Minister rolled out a red carpet of opportunities in local defence and aerospace manufacturing to global investors during the launch of the Aero India. The chiefs of the three Armed Forces — Air Chief Marshal B.S. Dhanoa, Admiral Sunil Lanba and General Bipin Rawat — were in attendance at the show. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests ;  India and the World ; India and its neighbourhood- relations.  Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests India’s trade-related action against Pakistan: More symbolic than punitive Context: We earlier read that India decided to withdraw the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to Pakistan. (After Pulwama attack) Therefore, India will not treat Pakistan on an equal footing in trade as is expected of fellow members of the World Trade Organisation. India is set to raise tariff duty on imports to 200%. Non-tariff measures will also be increased. Concept: “Beggar-thy-neighbour policy” In economics, a beggar-thy-neighbour policy is an economic policy through which one country attempts to remedy its economic problems by means that tend to worsen the economic problems of other countries. However, this policy can act only as a pressure tactic and do little unless stringent actions are taken to stop informal trade that has been going on between the two countries for long. Do you know? Trade now takes place using three channels: the official route; the illegal (informal) route, through smuggling along porous India-Pakistan land borders and also Afghanistan, which may not be accounted for in the national income; and lastly, through mainly Dubai and Singapore, which have free ports and accommodate legal agents of traders from India and Pakistan. India’s trade-related action will encourage informal trade and propel Pakistan to look for markets beyond South Asia. Informal trade generally takes place due to following reasons – Restrictions on import of specific items on grounds of health and religious beliefs. High tariff barriers or transportation costs Imposition of non-tariff measures (NTMs) Weaknesses in the ‘rules of origin’ resulting in ‘trade routed through a third country Leakages in transit trade Distortions in domestic policies such as the absence of or relatively low indirect taxes, creating an incentive to transport items illegally to neighbouring countries India-Pakistan Informal Trade Traders have carried out informal trade between Pakistan and India through the exchange of goods at the border as well as through the personal baggage scheme’ through “green channel” facilities at international airports or railway stations. ‘Informal trade has also taken place through Afghanistan where goods are exported officially from India and later smuggled into Pakistan. Indian-made goods smuggled into Pakistan include cosmetics, liquor, stainless steel utensils, ayurvedic medicines, videotapes/CDs, confectionery/cashew nuts, tea, coffee, live animals and spices’. In 2012-13, informal trade between India and Pakistan was $4.71 billion, which was double when compared to formal trade. India’s informal export share to Pakistan was again much higher at $4 billion while its import share was low at $0.71 billion. Impact of India’s trade-related action against Pakistan – India’s imports from Pakistan are reasonably low at $0.488 billion. In other words, India exports more than what it imports. Therefore, major exports from India would be hit. (such as cotton, p-Xylene, polypropylene, and single yarn) Pakistan’s loss from major exports to India would be much less. (India imports dates, portland cement, other petroleum oil, light oils and preparations etc) Thus Pakistan is an important export destination for India but not vice-a-versa. Pakistan imposes a large number of NTMs (143) on Indian exports while India’s NTMs are soft barriers which operate as delays or bureaucratic hurdles rather than bans. Conclusion: Crux – Pakistan may not face an exacerbating situation with India withdrawing the MFN status and raising the import duty. Informal trade may proliferate, which might not be in India’s interest and an appropriate strategy is required to bring it to a halt. Such steps may propel Pakistan to look for new markets beyond South Asia and growing prospects of trade through a third country. Connecting the dots: How will the economies of India and Pakistan be affected with rising tensions aftermath of Pulwama Attack. Discuss. ENVIRONMENT TOPIC:General studies 3 Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Green India Mission Grossly Underfunded Introduction: Green India Mission (GIM) is a programme that is aimed at protecting, restoring, and enhancing the country’s diminishing forest cover and at responding to climate change by a combination of adaptation and mitigation measures. National Mission for Green India (GIM) is one of the eight Missions outlined under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC). According to a Parliamentary committee report – The scheme is proposed for 10 years with an outlay of Rs 60,000 crore. During 2017-18, GIM budget allocation of ₹47.80 Cr. is grossly insufficient. The committed liability of FY 2015-16 and 2016-17 is ₹89.53 Crore, is more than the budget allocation of FY 2017-18. In 2015-16 and 2016-17, the GIM missed its targets by 34 per cent. Instead of the targeted 67,956 hectares, only 44,749 hectares of land got green cover. Afforestation done under the GIM was only aimed at increasing tree count without considering the soil and weather conditions. Trees like eucalyptus were planted which make environmental problems worse rather than solving it. Planting of unsuitable trees may cause drought, and prevent biodiversity in the regions. The report also makes a distinction between plantations and forests and how the former cannot replace the latter. (Plantations only have value in terms of timber, the other ecological services provided by a forest like prevention of soil erosion, promoting biodiversity, providing livelihood etc are not there at all.) Other concerns: The Parliamentary committee panel has raised concerns about the targets set by GIM on India’s Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) submitted to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. According to the NDC, India has a target to sequester 2.523 billion tonnes of carbon by 2020-30. India’s current forest cover is 75 million hectare and to meet our target of carbon sequestration, 30 million hectares of additional land would be required for forests. The GIM document does not mention from where will this land be arranged. Till 2016-17, afforestation programme was targeted to cover only 51,387 hectare, which is a tiny proportion of what is needed. (Note): We had earlier dealt with article - Green India Mission: Expanding ‘good’ green cover in India, in which the following areas were covered – About Green India Mission and its Goals Effectiveness of Green India Mission Do you know? GIM was supposed to be launched with the starting of the 12th five-year plan in 2012. But, owing to financial delays the mission was finally launched in 2015. The objective of the mission is to increase green cover to the extent of 5 million hectares (mha) and improve quality of existing green cover on another 5 mha, improve eco-system services like carbon sequestration, hydrological services and biodiversity and provisioning services like fuel, fodder, and timber and non-timber forest produces (NTFPs). It also has to increase forest-based livelihood income for about 3 million households. The committee has recommended that adequate financial allocation be made for the mission so that the activities of the mission can be carried out more efficiently and the targets set by it can be met. Connecting the dots: What is Green India Mission? What are its objectives? Explain. India’s efforts at addressing climate change and the wider issues of environmental governance, has been far from convincing. Critically examine. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) To ensure that banks don't go bust, RBI has put in place some trigger points to assess, monitor, control and take corrective actions on banks which are weak and troubled. The process or mechanism under which such actions are taken is known as Prompt Corrective Action, or PCA. On which of the following the RBI has set the trigger points? Capital-to-risk weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) Non-Performing Assets (NPA) Return on Assets (ROA) Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR) Select the correct answer using the codes given below: 1, 2 and 3 only 2, 3 and 4 only 1, 3 and 4 only All the above Q.2) Consider the below statements in regard to Capital to Risk (Weighted) Assets Ratio (CRAR) CRAR is a standard metric to measure balance sheet strength of banks. In India, RBI has implemented BASEL III norms which prescribes the minimum capital adequacy ratio that banks must maintain is 8%. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Article 36 of the Vienna Convention, which was in news often, deals with - Protection of the Stratospheric Ozone Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) Consular Relations Prevention of Marine Pollution Q.4) Consider the following statements with regard to indelible ink used during elections: Delhi-based National Physical Laboratory (NPL) has a monopoly on the manufacture of indelible ink since 1962 Election ink uses silver nitrate, and excessive exposure can cause argyria. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Which among the following is/are critically endangered according to IUCN status? Lesser black-backed gull Great Hornbill Lesser crested tern Siberian Crane Choose correct answer: 1, 2 and 3 1 and 3 2 and 4 4 only MUST READ   The employment test The Hindu A modern story of Ekalavya The Hindu The private sector in public health  The Hindu Are soldiers paying the price for the ‘Bollywoodization’ of war? Livemint How a nation of startups can ease India’s job crisis Livemint  Why attack young Kashmiris for Pulwama attack, a crime committed by someone else? Indian Express The cost of Pulwama Indian Express Love of labour Indian Express Enterprise empowerment  Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 179

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 179 Archives Q.1) ‘Sonowal Kacharis’ primarily live in the state of Odisha Assam Jharkhand West Bengal Q.2) ‘Repurpose Cooking Oil (RUCO) initiative’ is launched by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) NITI Aayog Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas None of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Terminalia Arjuna’ It usually grows along river banks It is one of the species whose leaves are fed on by the Antheraea paphia moth which produces the tassar silk Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) The ‘Indian Housing Project’ is a housing reconstruction project funded by the Government of India in which of the following countries? Afghanistan Sri Lanka Maldives Kenya Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC)’ It has permanent delegations to the United Nations and the European Union India is one of the founding members of the OIC Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 17th Feb to 23rd Feb - 2019

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 17th Feb to 23rd Feb - 2019 ARCHIVES GS-2 Deendayal Disabled Rehabilitation Scheme (DDRS) (Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population) DDRS is being organized by the Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It will cover 13 States of Eastern & North Eastern region namely West Bengal, Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Bihar, Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim & Tripura. The stakeholders i.e. the NGOs receiving grant under DDRS, State Government Officers & District level officers will be participating. Provisions of the scheme Every year more than 600 NGOs are provided with financial assistance for running their projects for the rehabilitation of persons with disability such as Special school, pre-school and early intervention, Halfway Homes and Community Based Rehabilitation etc. The NGOs being funded are catering the rehabilitative services to more than 35000 to 40000 beneficiaries every year. Facts and figures According to Census 2011, there were about 2.68 crore persons with disabilities in India, constituting 2.21% of the total population in the country. The mandate of the Constitution of India is to ensure equality, freedom, justice and dignity of all individuals, which implies an inclusive society for all, especially the disadvantaged. Article 41 of Part IV (Directive Principles of State Policy - which is particularly relevant with regard to persons with disabilities. In 2015, the Government launched the National Action Plan (NAP) for skill development of persons with disabilities. The NAP envisages skilling of the persons with disabilities on various trades so as to enhance their employability both in the government and private sector and also to enhance the scope of their self-employment Important initiatives on women’s safety (Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population) The Ministry of Women and Child Development has conceptualized several initiatives to promote safety of women in their living spaces, working spaces and the public spaces. Three of these important initiatives are. Panic Button: The idea of having a panic button on the mobile phone was conceived way back in 2015. Ministry of Telecom mandated a physical panic button on all mobile phones in the country. This system was then conceptualized in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs and state governments were asked to put in place a dedicated Emergency Response Centre through which the entire system will be operated. SCIM portal under Safe City Project: In order to provide safety for women in public spaces, the Government has identified eight cities for implementation of Safe City project. The 8 major cities which have been chosen are Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chennai, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Lucknow and Mumbai. The projects include creation on ground assets & resources and mindset safety of women. Some of the key features of the safe city project include: Identification of sensitive hot spots in each city, Installation of CCTV surveillance covering the entire hot spot. Automated number plate reading machines to be deployed in extremely sensitive areas. Intensive patrolling in vulnerable areas beyond the identified hot spots. Improving street lighting and public toilet facilities for women. Others like setting up women help desks in police stations, augmentation of women support centres etc. DNA Analysis Facilities in States: In view of the complaints of delay in cases of sexual assault investigations, it was proposed that dedicated DNA analysis facilities should be created in the forensic science laboratories on a mission mode. Timely testing of DNA samples from the crime scene is the quickest process of obtaining forensic evidence in cases of sexual assault on women. International Vision Zero Conference (Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population) Ministry of Labour and Employment started VISION ZERO conference and its relevance to Occupational Safety and Health.   Objectives The concept of ‘Vision Zero’ is fast gaining international acceptance and is expected to leverage the efforts of the Government of India to raise the occupational safety and health standards in the country so as to improve the occupational safety and health situation. The concept of Vision Zero is based on four fundamental principles viz. Life is non-negotiable, Humans are fallible, Tolerable limits are defined by human physical resistance, and People are entitled to safe transport and safe workplaces. The Vision is based on principles of Controlling Risks, Ensuring Safety and Health in Machines, Equipment and Workplaces and Skill Upgradation of Workforce. National Workshop on Promoting Healthy Diets Through Local Food Systems (Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population) Under the aegis of POSHAN Abhiyaan, promoting consumption and household/community production of locally available nutritionally rich food resources has been a priority concern. The academic institutions will serve as resource centres and Nutrition Support Units to the Districts and State administration for technical, training, concurrent monitoring support to achieve the goals of POSHAN Abhiyaan. POSHAN Abhiyaan The POSHAN (PM’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nourishment) Abhiyaan is aimed to ensure attainment of malnutrition free India by 2022. The programme targets reduction of under-nutrition, anemia and low birth weight by ensuring convergence of evidence-based nutrition interventions and by creating a mass movement (Jan Andolan) for food nutrition in India. One of the key nutrition interventions to meet these targets is to improve the quality of daily diets by making them nutritionally rich and locally sustainable. Academic institutions were also encouraged to frame scientific methodologies and prepare achievable action plans with clearly defined indicators. Hope Portal (Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.) National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Organizations (NABH) has revamped Entry-Level Certification Process to make it simpler, digital, faster and user-friendly. The revised process is driven through a new portal called HOPE - Healthcare Organizations’ Platform for Entry-Level-Certification with a focus to promote quality at nascent stages by enrolling a wide range of hospitals across the country including Healthcare Organizations (HCOs) and Small Healthcare Organizations (SHCOs). Aim of HOPE The aim is to create a momentum for HCOs and SHCOs that want to avail benefits associated with Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) and Ayushman Bharat by getting themselves NABH certified along with the primary aim of creating a quality healthcare ecosystem in India. The idea of cashless payment to patients under insurance coverage has been promoted by IRDAI to reduce financial burden on households. The IRDAI has mandated hospitals to ensure a quality healthcare ecosystem through NABH Entry-Level Certification Process. Activities under HOPE Nationwide awareness workshops to sensitize the hospitals on the entire process of assessment. Call centre support to hospitals through an active helpline for resolving issues while filling the application form. Platform to connect hospitals with certified consultants for assistance in the certification process following a cost effective manner. Knowledge bank providing a comprehensive guidebook, presentation etc. with detailed information of the step-by-step certification procedure. Created a larger and stronger network of qualified assessors Quality Council of India (QCI) Established in 1997 Quality Council of India (QCI) is an autonomous organization under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade, Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It is the Quality Apex and National Accreditation Body for accreditation and quality promotion in the country. The Council was established to provide a credible, reliable mechanism for third party assessment of products, services and processes which is accepted and recognized globally. GS-3 Big Bang Reforms in Oil & Gas Sector   (Topic: Infrastructure- Energy) The Union Cabinet approved the Policy framework on reforms in exploration and licensing sector for enhancing domestic exploration and production of oil and gas. Objective The decision signals a paradigm shift in the core goal of the Government, moving from revenue-maximisation to production-maximisation, with focus on exploration. This will incentivise increased investment and production. Category I basins In Category I basins where potential is established and production is taking place, to give boost to further exploration in unexplored areas of these basins, the weightage of revenue sharing has been reduced from 50% to 30%. Also, in order to ensure that revenue sharing does not disincentivise higher production, the maximum revenue sharing has been capped at 50%. Category II and Category III basins In the less prospective Category II and Category III basins, revenue sharing has been totally dispensed with and allotment of basins would be solely based on the exploration work programme. On successful discovery, the production and full revenue will accrue to the operator, with Government asking for no share. This is apart from marketing and pricing freedom, which has been assured in all basins. Benefits It gives complete marketing and pricing freedom to oil and gas production. In gas, it is also extended this to those fields whose first Field Development Plan (FDP) is yet to be approved. It also gives concession in the royalties in case the oil fields are brought to production earlier. Integrating the recommendations of NITI Aayog, the cabinet decision focuses on enhancing exploration & production activities, which would have massive macro-economic benefits in terms of development of support services, employment generation, transfer of advanced technology etc. Operation Digital Board (ODB) (Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources) Operation Digital Board to leverage technology in order to boost quality education in the country. Operation Digital Board is a revolutionary step which will make the learning as well as the teaching process interactive and popularize flipped learning as a pedagogical approach. Objectives ODB aims at converting a class room into a digital class room and in addition to availability of e-resources at any time and at any place to students. It will also help in provisioning of personalised adaptive learning as well as Intelligent Tutoring by exploiting emerging technologies like Machine Learning, Artificial Intelligence & Data Analytics. An expert committee has worked out optimum configuration of the Digital Class Rooms under ODB. Implementation in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) UGC will be the implementing agency for ODB in HEIs. It is estimated that there would be 5 lakh classrooms in the institutions which are aided by Centre or State Governments. Out of this, based on the readiness, UGC proposed to take up 300 universities and about 10,000 colleges in the first phase covering 2 lakh classrooms. For the 2 lakh class rooms, the cost is estimated at Rs. 2000 crores. This can be implemented as a Central scheme, as a loan from HEFA. Implementation in Schools Digital / SMART board will be provided in all Government and Government – aided schools having Secondary and Sr. Secondary classes. Nearly 1.5 lakh Secondary / Sr. Secondary schools will be covered under the scheme in collaboration with the State and UTs All India Citizens Survey of Police Services (Topic: Internal security) Ministry of Home Affairs has commissioned the Bureau of Police Research and Development to conduct a pan-India survey called “ALL INDIA CITIZENS SURVEY OF POLICE SERVICES”. The survey will be conducted through the National Council of Applied Economic Research, New Delhi. Importance of the survey The outcome of the survey is expected to bring out useful suggestions for stakeholders in formulating and implementing appropriate policy responses and changes in the functioning of police at the cutting edge and for improving crime prevention and investigation, transformation in community policing, improvement in the access to the justice and increased appropriate resource allocation for police in a systematic manner. Super-Efficient Air Conditioning programme launched by EESL (Topic: Development of new technology) Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture of four National Public Sector Enterprises under Ministry of Power launched its Super-Efficient Air Conditioning Programme. About Air Conditioners These Super-Efficient Air Conditioners are 40 percent more efficient than, but priced comparably with, the 3-star ACs currently available in the market (ISEER 3.8). EESL is working towards making this programme and its benefits available to all consumers across the nation with the other DISCOMs likely to partner with EESL in future. EESL and GEF EESL’s investment in the programme is partially supported by a grant from the Global Environment Facility (GEF), an independent financing mechanism that was established on the eve of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit to address global environmental issues. The GEF is an international partnership of 183 countries, international institutions, civil society organizations and the private sector. Further, Asian Development Bank (ADB) is providing necessary grant support and loan while United Nations Environment (UNEP) is providing technical assistance support to the Super-Efficient AC programme. Accepted outcomes The programme directly addresses the prospect of the nearly four-fold increase in energy consumption from buildings and cooling appliances in India by 2032, while also addressing goals of India’s Cooling Action Plan and Hydrochlorofluro carbons Phase Out Management Plan, enabling achievement of India’s targets under the Kigali and Paris Agreements. Please Note: NCST Leadership Award: Awards which will be conferred for significant and exemplary services towards Scheduled Tribes in the country.  The awards will be given in 3 categories i.e. Educational Institutions/ Universities, Public Sector Undertakings/Banks and Public Service rendered by an Individual, NGO or Civil Society. Eco Circuit: Pathanamthitta – Gavi – Vagamon – Thekkady: Major works carried out under the project includes Eco Adventure Tourism Park at Vagamon, Cultural Centre at Kadamanitta, Eco Log Huts at Peerumedu, Idukki, Approach Roads, Walking trails, Rain Shelters at Pine Valley Forest, Thekkady, Kumily, Moozhiyar Dam, Penstock and Kakki Dam in Kerala. Central Waqf Council: It is a statutory body established in 1964 by the Government of India under Wakf Act, 1954 (now a sub section the Wakf Act, 1995) for the purpose of advising it on matters pertaining to working of the State Wakf Boards and proper administration of the Wakfs in the country. Wakf is a permanent dedication of movable or immovable properties for religious, pious or charitable purposes as recognized by Muslim Law, given by philanthropists. The grant is known as mushrut-ul-khidmat, while a person making such dedication is known as Wakf. The Council is headed by a Chairperson, who is the Union Minister in charge of Wakfs and there are maximum 20 other members, appointed by Government of India as stipulated in the Wakf Act. Presently the chairperson 642nd birth anniversary of Guru Ravidas: Guru Ravidas was a North Indian mystic poet-sant of the bhakti movement during the 14th to 16th century CE. Venerated as a guru (teacher) in the region of Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh the devotional songs of Ravidas made a lasting impact upon the bhakti movement. He was a poet-saint, social reformer and a spiritual figure. He is considered as the founder of 21st-century Ravidassia religion, by a group who previously were associated with Sikhism He gave the people a message of peace, harmony and fraternity. He made people aware of the evils of discrimination and urged overcoming them. VIVID 2019: VIVID-Vision Insight and Voices as India goes Digital”- the District Informatics Officer (DIO) meet, is being organised by National Informatics Centre (NIC). The meet is held as an initiative to interact with the DIO’s and to share their experiences as well as contribution, as digital change-makers at the grass-root level in the States. VIVID started in 2017, as an annual event, with the objective to empower NIC officials in the field of technology. Runway to a Billion Opportunities: 12th biennial edition of International Aerospace and Defence Exhibition and declared the Aero India 2019 in Bengaluru. This edition of Aero India, for the first time, combines the defence and civil aviation segments into a holistic event with the co-involvement of the defence and civil aviation ministries in the event. More than 600 Indian Companies and 200 Foreign Companies are participating and witnessing the largest Air show of Asia. ‘Shisht Bharat Abhiyan’: organised by an NGO, theme of the event was to discuss the importance of moral science education in schools and colleges and to include Moral Science as a subject in the educational curriculum. Atmospheric Water Generator safe Drinking Water: Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has unveiled its new product, the Atmospheric Water Generator (AWG), an innovative solution to meet the ever-increasing need for drinking water worldwide. BEL's Atmospheric Water Generator can be used to generate water straight from the humidity present in the atmosphere. “Waste to Wonder” Park in South Delhi: this park has set an example for others, as for the first time scrap has been used to create ‘Wealth from waste’. The efforts should be made towards behavioural change of the people and proper arrangement should be made for waste disposal. A system should be developed for recycling of waste that can be reused. The products which cannot be recycled should be minimally used. Quotes: Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi On India- Korea relation You would go fast if you go alone, but you would go far if you go together Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu On Centre-State relation As far as development is concerned, both State and Central governments must work as Team India President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind On energy security In today’s era of rapid technological advance, energy and environment are major concerns not only for developing countries but also for developed countries.

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 20th February 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 20th February 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Cabinet approves new National Electronics Policy 2019 Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Government schemes and policies; Indian Economy In news: Union Cabinet approved the National Electronics Policy 2019, which aims to achieve a turnover of $400 billion (about ₹26 lakh crore) for the electronics system design and manufacturing sector by 2025. It is also expected to generate employment opportunities for one crore people. The policy will enable flow of investment and technology, leading to higher value addition in the domestically manufactured electronic products and increased manufacturing of electronics hardware for local use as well as exports. Do you know? NPC 2019 is proposed by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY). The Policy aims to position India as a global hub for Electronics System Design and Manufacturing – (ESDM). To help create an ecosystem, the policy has pitched for 2.0 version of the Electronics Manufacturing Cluster Scheme, under which infrastructure support will be provided for a group of industries that are part of the product supply chain rather than individual industries. It has also proposed a sovereign patent fund to acquire intellectual property for chips and chip components. Salient Features of NPE 2019 Create eco-system for globally competitive ESDM sector: Promoting domestic manufacturing and export in the entire value-chain of ESDM. Provide incentives and support for manufacturing of core electronic components. Provide special package of incentives for mega projects which are extremely high-tech and entail huge investments, such as semiconductor facilities display fabrication, etc. Formulate suitable schemes and incentive mechanisms to encourage new units and expansion of existing units. Promote Industry-led R&D and innovation in all sub-sectors of electronics, including grass root level innovations and early stage Start-ups in emerging technology areas such as 5G, loT/ Sensors, Artificial Intelligence (Al), Machine Learning, Virtual Reality (VR), Drones, Robotics,   Additive   Manufacturing,   Photonics,   Nano-based devices, etc. Provide incentives   and   support   for   significantly   enhancingavailability of skilled manpower, including re-skilling. Special thrust  on  Fabless  Chip  Design  Industry,  Medical Electronic Devices Industry, Automotive Electronics Industry andPower Electronics for Mobility and Strategic Electronics Industry. Create Sovereign Patent Fund (SPF) to promote the developmentand acquisition of IPs in ESDM sector. Promote trusted electronics value chain initiatives to improve national cyber security profile. Seaplane operations in Andamans and Lakshadweep Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I and III – Geography; Infrastructure In news: Four islands in the Andamans and three in Lakshadweep have been identified for seaplane operations. Bids invited for private sector participation in tourism-based projects. https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/02/20/CMB/Coimbatore/TH/5_07/9b4d5105_2746968_101_mr.jpg Do you know? Islands Development Agency (IDA) is chaired by Union Home Minister. IDA was constituted in 2017 for the holistic development of islands after giving due consideration to unique maritime and territorial bio-diversity of the islands. The IDA had identified 10 islands for development which include 5 islands in A&N Islands (i.e. Smith, Ross, Long, Avis and Little Andaman) and 5 in Lakshadweep (i.e. Minicoy, Bangaram, Thinnakara, Cheriyam, Suheli). Drug menace in India Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Health issue; Welfare/Social issue; Children issue In news: According to a survey conducted by the National Drug Dependence Treatment Centre, AIIMS, Delhi – 7 crore people suffer from alcohol dependence in India More than 4 lakh children and 18 lakh adults are inhalant addicts Of the 16 crore people who consumed alcohol across the country, prevalence of alcohol consumption was 17 times higher among men than among women. About 3.1 crore individuals consumed cannabis The most common opioid used was heroin. The current use of heroin was 1.14%, followed by pharmaceutical opioids (0.96%) and opium (0.52%). The abuse was found most prevalent in Uttar Pradesh, Punjab and Haryana. https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/02/20/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/26fdf39b_2747869_101_mr.jpg The survey ascertains the magnitude of substance abuse in the country. The Ministry for Social Justice and Empowerment maintained that a national guideline would be formulated after detailed consultation with all stakeholders to counter the drug menace in the country. Do you know? Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has introduced Scheme of Assistance for Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drugs) Abuse. The scheme seeks to benefit victims of alcohol and substance abuse. Under the scheme, non-governmental organisations have been entrusted with the responsibility for delivery of services and the Ministry bears substantial financial responsibility (90% of the prescribed grant amount). Mid Day Meal Scheme Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Welfare/Social scheme; Government schemes and policies In news: The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the revision of norms under the Mid Day Meal Scheme. MDM scheme to be provided ₹12,054 crore for 2019-20, in addition to the subsidy of about ₹8,000 crore borne by Department of Food & Public Distribution. A new component of ₹10,000 per kitchen for repair of more than 10-year-old kitchens had been introduced. Also, ₹50 crore has been allocated for fortification of food items in a systematic manner. This would address the problems of anaemia and other micro nutrient deficiencies. About MDM scheme: The scheme involves provision of lunch free of cost to school-children on all working days. Key objectives: Protect children from classroom hunger; Increase school enrolment and attendance; Improve socialisation among children belonging to all castes; Address malnutrition and social empowerment through provision of employment to women. Scheme covers all children studying in class I to VIII MDM is covered by National Food Security Act, 2013 Ministry/Department : Department of School Education & Literacy, Ministry of Human Resource Development Panic button feature on mobiles launched Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Welfare/Social scheme; Government schemes and policies In news: Centre launched panic button feature on mobiles for safety of women and other emergency services The initiative was opened jointly by Home Minister and Women and Child Development Minister In order to access an emergency service, such as police, medical and other services, a user can dial 112 from any phone. A smartphone user can also press the power button thrice in quick succession and a user of a basic or feature phone can long press 5 or 9 on the key pad. Do you know? Once a user presses the panic button, five calls will be made to emergency number 112 as well as call log details and the geo location of the victim will be sent by SMSes and emails to police officials at the State, district and local level. The panic button facility, also known as the Emergency Response Support System, is being supported under the Nirbhaya Fund set up for safety of women. France to propose ban on JeM chief Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International; Security issues In news: France will move a proposal at the U.N. in a “couple of days” to ban Masood Azhar, chief of the U.N.-proscribed Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM). In 2017, the U.S., supported by the U.K. and France, moved a proposal at the U.N.’s Sanctions Committee 1267 to ban him. However, it was blocked by China. This will be the second time France will be party to such a proposal. India-Fiji Relations Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International Relations; India and the World In news: Fiji High Commissioner to India said - Fiji will maintain China-India balance Fiji is politically attached to India and the island country in the South Pacific Ocean is the only other country, apart from India, where Hindi is designated as an official language. Of the 9,00,000 people of the south Pacific island nation, some 40% are of Indian origin. Defence agreement – Both India and Fiji signed a defence agreement in 2017 with a goal to deepen cooperation in maritime security and provide training for Fiji troops. LOFAR telescope Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Science and Technology; Space Missions In news: A new map of the night sky published recently charts hundreds of thousands of previously unknown galaxies discovered using a LOFAR telescope that can detect light sources optical instruments cannot see. The discovery shed new light on some of the Universe’s deepest secrets, including the physics of black holes and how clusters of galaxies evolve. More than 200 astronomers from 18 countries were involved in the study, which used radio astronomy to look at a segment of sky over the northern hemisphere, and found 3,00,000 previously unseen light sources thought to be distant galaxies. The discovery of the new light sources may also help scientists better understand the behaviour of one of space’s most enigmatic phenomena. About LOFAR Telescope The Low-Frequency Array or LOFAR, is a large radio telescope network located mainly in the Netherlands, completed in 2012 by ASTRON, the Netherlands Institute for Radio Astronomy and its international partners. Animal in news: Bramble Cay Melomys Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Biodiversity; Animal Conservation In news: Australia officially declared a Great Barrier Reef rodent extinct. The rat-like Bramble Cay Melomys — whose only known habitat was a small sandy island in far northern Australia — has not been spotted in a decade. Bramble Cay Melomys is the first mammal believed to have been killed off by human-induced climate change. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/02/20/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_18/ac97c066_2747738_1_mr.jpg Illegal migrants in Assam Part of: GS Mains II – Welfare/Social issue In news: SC expressed concern over thousands of illegal migrants being kept in detention centres for years in Assam without being repatriated or deported to their countries of origin. The Centre assured the court that it would hold consultations with the State on a scheme to expedite deportation or repatriation of illegal foreigners. Do you know? Illegal migrants are convicted under the Foreigners Act, 1946. The Foreigners Act, 1946 is an Act of the Central Legislative Assembly enacted to grant the certain powers to Indian government in matters of foreigners in India. The Act was enacted before India became independent. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests India and the World  India-Saudi-Pakistan triangle Context: In previous Daily News Analysis articles, we had discussed about Saudi Crown Prince’s Vision 2030 plan to transform Saudi Arabia’s oil-dependent economy into a vibrant, diversified one better-suited to the economic realities of the 21st century. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) recent visits to Asian countries reflects that Asia is set to become the most important component of the Vision 2030 plan. For MBS, the visit to India, Pakistan, China, Malaysia and Indonesia is an opportunity to re-assert Saudi Arabia’s role as a major foreign policy player in Asia amid growing criticism over the Yemen war and the brutal assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in Istanbul. For the Government of India, the visit is an opportunity to cap its pursuit of stronger ties with West Asian nations on a high note. India-Saudi Relations: Expansion of trade and investment: Saudi has shown interest in expanding trade and investment in India and collaboration in the energy sector. India could likely absorb $100 billion in Saudi investment. Ratnagiri refinery and petrochemicals complex joint venture: Saudi Aramco is set to partner with the Abu Dhabi National Oil Company in developing an integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex at Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, a $44 billion joint venture with Indian public sector involvement. Largest supplier of oil: Saudi Arabia is already one of the three largest suppliers of oil to India. Strategic Partnership Council: Both the countries have a strong independent strategic partnership and it will be further strengthened with the launching of the Strategic Partnership Council. People-to-people relations: There were announcements of the release of 850 Indians from Saudi jails, a hike in the quota for Indians making the Haj pilgrimage and an annual upscaling of airline seats to and fro. Comprehensive security dialogue and counter terrorism: A comprehensive security dialogue between the national security advisers of the two nations has been announced, besides a joint working group on terrorism. Inaugural joint naval exercises soon: Both agreed to hold their inaugural joint naval exercises at the earliest. Pakistan-Saudi Relations: Strategic and economic nexus between Saudi Arabia and Pakistan: Pakistan is far too important to Saudi Arabia for internal security reasons. The Pakistan Army has more than once acted as the Saudi rulers’ praetorian guard and given the uncertain hold of MBS on his country, despite impressions to the contrary, he may need the services of Pakistani mercenaries in the near future. Strategic importance of Pakistan in Afghanistan: Afghanistan has been a point of strategic convergence for Pakistan and Saudi Arabia going back to the 1980s when the Saudis used Pakistan as a conduit for material assistance to the Islamist forces fighting the Soviet Union and its proxy government in Kabul. With U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, Pakistan’s strategic value as the Taliban’s patron has grown exponentially. Saudi Arabia is interested in curbing Iranian influence in Afghanistan and needs Pakistan to contain Iran’s ability to influence events in that country after the American withdrawal through its Tajik and Hazara allies. Aid to Pakistan: Saudi economic largesse matters greatly to Pakistan, which is in dire economic straits and has been forced to turn to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for loans that are bound to come with strict conditionalities. Saudi investment in Pakistan (especially Gwadar port): Over and above the $6 billion already promised by Saudi Arabia, MBS has promised a further $20 billion in Saudi investment in Pakistan. A large part is earmarked for investment in the construction of an oil refinery in Gwadar on the Makran coast, which is being developed as a strategic port by China and features prominently in the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) plan. Iran-Saudi Arabia Conflict: Iran is Saudi Arabia’s chief adversary in West Asia. MBS has made containment of Iran his top foreign policy priority. Therefore, Saudi perceives Pakistan as a major asset it can use to check the spread of Iranian influence. Moreover, Pakistan’s relations with Iran have hit a new low following the recent terrorist attack in the Sistan-Baluchistan Province that killed 27 Revolutionary Guards. As Pakistan’s relations with Iran deteriorate, it is likely to move further into the Saudi orbit. On the other hand, India deepened its engagement with Iran, be it on oil trade or the Chabahar port. Iran is important for India as it is a gateway to Central Asia. Conclusion: India should take advantage of any benefit that accrues from India’s economic relations with Saudi Arabia but should not pin much hope on Riyadh in the political-strategic sphere of Saudi-Pakistan ties. While Saudi Arabia is vital for India’s energy security, Iran is a gateway to Central Asia. New Delhi is sure to continue this balancing act even as it seeks to strengthen the Saudi pillar of India’s West Asia policy. Connecting the dots: Saudi Arabia and India have a historic opportunity to collaborate in shaping the future of Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Asia regions. Critically analyse. What challenges does India face in cultivating gainful ties with Saudi Arabia? Examine. Give an overview of India – Saudi Arabia defence, economic and strategic relations. INFRASTRUCTURE/ENERGY TOPIC:General studies 3 Infrastructure: Energy  Environment and Ecology; Pollution Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Need for Clean Fuel and Sustainable Energy System Context: Ministry of Environment had notified emission limits for major pollutants such as suspended particulate matter, sulphur oxide, nitrogen oxide and mercury in December 2015. However, despite this notification, the effort to clean up India’s thermal power plants running on coal has never really taken off. About Emission Standards for Coal Power Plants In December 2015, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) notified new emission standards for coal thermal power plants (TPPs). The new standards mandate reduction of sulphur oxide (SOx), nitrogen oxide (NOx), and mercury (Hg) emissions, along with tightening of the existing norms for particulate matter (PM10) emissions. Around 50% of the total SOx, 30% of total NOx, and 8% of total PM2.5 emissions are attributed to the energy sector, within which coal TPPs are the biggest contributors. Once MoEFCC’s standards are implemented, the air quality in India could significantly improve. Standards have been specified differently for unit, vintage and installed capacity. The original deadline for compliance was December 2017. Due to limited progress in implementing the standards, MoEFCC recently decided to support the Ministry of Power’s (MoP’s) phasing plan, which extends the deadline for implementation to 2022. Concerns: These pollutants have cumulative impact on the health and well-being of people. Government/Centre has failed to follow up the notification with a viable financial plan to help power plants acquire pollution control technologies. Originally, the compliance deadline was set for 2017, but that was missed and the plan now is to achieve the norms by 2022. India’s coal use is over 54% of the present energy mix, and the dirty fuel will continue to retain a high share of the overall generation. Over 300 out of around 500 units of coal-based power plants are not adhering to the emission norms notified by the Union Environment Ministry in December 2015. To comply with the new emission standards, most coal TPPs will have to incur INR 0.5–1 crore/MW. The way ahead: Power Ministry has proposed to provide the equivalent of over $12 billion (about ₹88,000 crore), mainly to remove sulphur from coal plant emissions. A viable financial mechanism must be evolved to remove pollutants in existing and upcoming power plants, without losing sight. Providing grants to existing plants would help. Developing detailed regulatory guidelines to enable tariff transfer to consumers. There is a need to stop further long-term investments in a dirty fuel such as coal that contributes to carbon emissions. Developing synthetic gypsum market to monetise the byproduct from FGD technologies, as additional revenue for new plants. Connecting the dots: India’s energy needs have to be diverse to fulfil India’s Energy Mix. Explain in detail with suitable examples. Studies across the world has released that coal power plants in India are most lethal in the world. Critically analyse the need for green technologies and sustainable energy system. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about Islands Development Agency (IDA) It is chaired by Union Environment Minister It was constituted in 2017 for the holistic development of islands after giving due consideration to unique maritime and territorial bio-diversity of the islands. Which of the statements above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both None Q.2) Which of the following are the pillars of growth under Digital India? Free internet access Electronics Manufacturing E-governance Universal access to Mobile Connectivity  Select the correct answer using the code given below: 3 and 4 1 and 2 1, 2 and 3 2, 3 and 4 Q.3) Bangaram, Thinnakara, Cheriyam, Suheli is associated with - Islands of Lakshadweep Islands of Andamans Indigenous cattle breeds Folk songs of Odisha Q.4) Scheme of Assistance for Prevention of Alcoholism and Substance (Drugs) Abuse was introduced by - Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry of Health and Family Welfare Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers Home Ministry Q.5) Consider the following statements with regard to Mid-day Meal Scheme: Scheme covers all children studying in class I to VIII MDM is covered by National Food Security Act, 2013 The programme supplies free lunches on working days for children in primary and upper primary classes in government, government aided, local body, Education Guarantee Scheme, and alternate innovative education centres, Madarsa and Maqtabs supported under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan only. Which of the statements above are correct? 1, 2 and 3 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 Q.6) An integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex at Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, a $44 billion joint venture is proposed between which two countries? India and UAE India and Russia India and Saudi Arabia India and Iran MUST READ  We can defeat terrorism by upholding the unity of our society The Hindu The importance of being humane The Hindu  Spotlight needed on training teachers in India Livemint Technology is making us less open to divergent views Livemint  Soldiering on, after Pulwama Indian Express  Ruse Of Gender Justice Indian Express Star-studded CVs and moral numbness Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 178

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 178 Archives Q.1) The term ‘Allograft’ is associated with Algorithm Trading Blockchain Technology Rafale Aircraft Organ Transplants Q.2) ‘Gumti Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located in West Bengal Tripura Nagaland Meghalaya Q.3) ‘World Employment and Social Outlook – Trends’ report is published by International Labour Organization World Economic Forum United Nations Development Programme None of the above Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Dampa Tiger Reserve’ It is located on the Rajasthan-Gujarat border Slow Loris is found in this reserve Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Which of  the following statements with respect to ‘Guardafui Channel’ is correct? It connects the Gulf of Aden with the Somali Sea It divides the Tyrrhenian Sea and the western Mediterranean Sea, from the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It is a strait in the Pwani Region of Tanzania It is a narrow passage between the Sinai and Arabian peninsulas which separate the Gulf of Aqaba from the Red Sea proper To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 177

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 177 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Quality Council of India (QCI)’ Ministry of Commerce & Industry is the nodal ministry for QCI. All the boards of the QCI operate under the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) ‘Charlevoix Blueprint’ is associated with Unmanned Aerial Vehicles Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles Non Proliferation Treaty Healthy oceans and seas Q.3) ‘Ocean Plastics Charter’ is led by Germany Canada Italy United Kingdom Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Friends of Yemen’ It was established in 2019 to help bolster international political support for Yemen and to assist Yemeni-led efforts to tackle the underlying causes of instability. India is one of the members of the group Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Ancient port of ‘Muziris’ was located in the present day Goa Kerala Andhra Pradesh Tamil Nadu To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Compilation – 2018-19

  Hello Friends, Continuing our effort in assisting you in revision, here we will be coming up with the Daily Current Affairs Quiz Monthly Compilation of 2018-19. Note March 2019 onward current affairs questions will be covered in 60 Days Programme (Its details will be posted soon). Previous compilations are available here- Click Here JUNE 2018 JULY 2018 AUGUST 2018 SEPTEMBER 2018 OCTOBER 2018 NOVEMBER 2018 DECEMBER 2018 JANUARY 2019 FEBRUARY 2019 P.S- Other compilations will be updated here soon. 

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 176

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 176 Archives Q.1)  Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Great white shark’ The IUCN lists the great white shark as a vulnerable species It is found only in the Pacific Ocean Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘National Innovations on Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA)’ It is under the aegis of the Ministry of Environment and Forests It was formed under the Environment Protection Act, 1986 Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) ‘National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)’ manages which of the following funds? Master Fund Fund of Funds Strategic Fund Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)’ The funds managed by the NIIF are registered as Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) with the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) The Indian government has 49 per cent stake in NIIF Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) ‘Wagon tragedy’ is associated with Chauri Chaura Incident Jallianwala Bagh Massacre Tebhaga movement Mappila Rebellion To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 175

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 175 Archives Q.1) ‘Mount Soputan’ is located in Sumatra Java Sulawesi Papua New Guinea Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Liancourt Rocks’ They are a group of small islets in the Sea of Japan It is disputed between South Korea, Japan, Russia and China Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) ‘Addu Atoll’ was in news recently. Where is it located? Seychelles Maldives Micronesia Lakshadweep Q.4) ‘Project 75’ was recently seen in news. It refers to India’s Military Space Programs (ISRO’s Vision 2021) Large-scale civil engineering project that aims to link Indian rivers by a network of reservoirs and canals An initiative to digitize and archive cultural works by the 75th year of Indian Independence India’s Scorpene submarine programme Q.5) In which of the following states is the ‘Wangala’ Harvest festival celebrated? Manipur Mizoram Nagaland Meghalaya To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 19th February 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 19th February 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Synthetic fibres contribute to plastic pollution Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Pollution In news: Polyester and other synthetic fibres such as nylon are major contributors of microplastic pollution in the environment. Researchers suggest switching to biosynthetic fibres may help prevent this. Synthetic fibres are petroleum-based products, unlike natural fibres such as wool, cotton and silk, which are recyclable and biodegradable. Mixed fibres that contain both natural and synthetic fibres are difficult or costly to recycle. In the oceans, pieces of microscopic plastic are consumed by plants and animals and enter the human food chain through harvested fish. Minimising the use of synthetic fibres and switching to natural fibres such as wool, cotton, silk and linen would help. ICJ on Kulbhushan Jadhav case Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II - India and its neighbourhood- relations; India and Pakistan relations In news: The International Court of Justice refused to entertain Pakistan's request to adjourn the hearing in the case of Kulbhushan Jadhav to appoint a new ad-hoc judge. Pakistan asked the ICJ to adjourn the case, citing the illness of its ad-hoc judge. India urged the ICJ to annul Jadhav's death sentence and order his immediate release, saying the verdict by a Pakistani military court based on a "farcical case" hopelessly fails to satisfy even the minimum standards of due process. Do you know? Jadhav, a retired Indian Navy officer, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of "espionage and terrorism" after a closed trial in April 2017. His sentencing evoked a sharp reaction in India. India moved the ICJ in the same year for the "egregious violation" of the provisions of the Vienna Convention by Pakistan by repeatedly denying New Delhi consular access to the 48-year-old Indian national. Saudi vows to ‘de-escalate’ India-Pakistan tensions Part of: GS Mains II - India and its neighbourhood- relations; International Relations In news: Saudi Arabia’s Foreign Minister vowed to “de-escalate” rising tensions between Pakistan and India as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman prepares to travel to New Delhi. Do you know? Pakistan has also been accused by its western neighbour Iran of harbouring militants who carried out an attack that killed 27 Revolutionary Guards last week. Miscellaneous: 1. 3 Jaish men killed in Pulwama In news: Three Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) terrorists were killed in an 18-hour gunfight in Pulwama’s Pinglena area, four days after 40 CRPF jawans lost their lives in a suicide car-bomb attack in the region. 2. Ex-President Yameen arrested In news: Maldivian authorities arrested former President Abdulla Yameen on money laundering charges after a court order. 3. 79th Indian History Congress In news: 79th session of Indian History Congress to be organised at Barkatullah University, Bhopal. 4. DRDO scouts for R&D partners In news: DRDO is looking for potential partners to co-develop an engine for its planned Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) and five other future technologies. It is on the lookout for collaborators to realise the military technologies such as Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles (UCAVs) and UAVs, materials, sensors, avionics, and artificial intelligence etc. Minor innovators and startups are also being tapped for new concepts that the DRDO can try out under its ‘Dare to Dream’ challenge. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/POLITY TOPIC:General studies 2 Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions & basic structure  Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein.  Parliament and State Legislatures - structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. Structure, organization and functioning of the Executive and their role in the Polity. Role of Lt Governor in Union Territories Context: Puducherry Chief Minister V. Narayanasamy, along with his cabinet ministers, had launched an indefinite protest in front of the Lieutenant Governor (L-G) Kiran Bedi office. They were protesting against the L-G’s dictatorial style of functioning and alleged interference in the running of the government. Reasons for stand-off: The L-G and the CM had been engaged in a war of words for the last two-and-a-half years but the immediate provocation for the agitation appeared to be the decision of the Lt. Governor to “unilaterally” enforce the helmet rule on February 11. While the CM believes it can be enforced only after raising awareness, Ms. Bedi wants it implemented immediately. In addition, the CM has listed that blocking of 39 welfare schemes of his government, including one for free rice distribution, enhanced scholarship for Scheduled Caste students, besides other administrative matters, as the real issues. Therefore, the protest brings back focus on the precarious arrangement of the administration in the Union territories of Puducherry and Delhi. The two entities have elected Assemblies and seem to function like state governments. But in reality, these Union territories are administered by the Centre through lieutenant governors, who have veto powers over the elected chief ministers. The main conflict is the question – Whether the L-G is acting within her powers or exceeding her brief in seeking to play a proactive role in the affairs of the Union Territory? What purpose do the territory’s legislature and executive serve if their decisions can be stalled by the Centre’s appointee? If an Assembly cannot enforce its laws, the very idea of an elected democratic government loses its legitimacy. L-G Powers: Under the Constitution, the territory belongs to the President, who runs it through the L-G as Administrator. However, under Section 44 of the Union Territories Act, 1963, the Administrator has to act on the ‘aid and advice’ of the Council of Ministers. Any difference of opinion between them can be referred to the President, and in the meantime the Administrator’s action prevails on any urgent matter. Government of Union Territories Act, 1963 allows the L-G office discretionary powers, but these must be exercised judiciously and only in exceptional circumstances. This scheme, which gives a clear edge to the Centre, can work only if there is harmony between the Council and the L-G. Do you know? Supreme Court (during the ruling on the limits of the L-G’s powers in Delhi) had stressed the need for the L-G as well as people’s representatives to “function in harmony within constitutional parameters”. The L-G was cautioned against having a hostile attitude towards the Ministers. Both Delhi and Puducherry are Union territories with special powers and have elected governments, but certain functions, such as law and order, come under the purview of the L-G and the central government. Though the issues in Delhi and Puducherry seem similar, the L-G of the National Capital Territory has more executive powers compared to his counterpart in the southern UT. This is understandable since Delhi is also the home of the Union government. The way ahead: Puducherry has an elected assembly and the task of law making should be entrusted with it. Similarly, public policy and administration must be left to the elected representatives. LG should avoid stalling of some of the proposals which were a part of the ruling party’s election manifesto and are within the ambit of law. The UT Act was legislated more than half a century ago. Much has changed in UTs like Delhi and Puducherry, which have legislative assemblies. The office and role of the LG needs to be restructured to recognise the shift in public sentiment towards more democracy. Clearly, there is a need to reimagine the political system in the UTs in favour of the popular government. Connecting the dots: The recent Supreme Court judgement in the Govt of NCT of Delhi v Union of India upholds a basic democratic principle: The responsibility to exercise power on behalf of the people, lies with the elected legislature. Discuss. The office and role of the LG needs to be restructured to recognise the shift in public sentiment towards more democracy. Discuss. There should be a harmonious functioning between the Lt. Governor and Chief Minister of the Union Territories”. Critically Analyze. SOCIETY/WOMEN EMPOWERMENT TOPIC:General studies 1 and 2 Role of women and women’s organization, women related issues, Social empowerment  Mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections.  Population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues  Towards more Gender-Inclusive Parliament Introduction: Elections for the 17th Lok Sabha will probably be announced in early March. However, there is no attention being paid to the number of women in Parliament. Key facts: India ranks 153 out of 190 nations in the percentage of women in the lower house of world parliaments. Rwanda ranks first with 61% of its lower house representatives being women. As a region, Nordic countries are leaders with an average of about 40%. The UK and the US are relative laggards with 32% and 23%, respectively. Even Pakistan with 20% participation from women is ahead of India. India had 65 women out of 545 members of Parliament (MPs) elected to the 16th Lok Sabha, for a 12% representation. Before, 15th and 16th Lok Sabha elections, representation of Indian women MPs since Independence has been stagnant under 9%. Pic: https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/img/68026377/Master.jpg Why poor number of women parliamentarians matters? Total seats are allocated to states based on their population. Women’s representation at 12% is far below the actual population of women. So, on grounds of fairness, this is an anomaly. Women must have half the seats at the highest political tables simply because they are half the population. A fully representative Parliament allows the different experiences of genders to craft priorities and shape the economic and social future of a democratic society. Law and policy in India are in dire need of women’s perspectives. Studies suggest that a greater representation of women in elected office balances the process and prioritizations that elected bodies focus on. Inclusion of women has brought changes in policy style, agenda and outcomes. For instance, in terms of policy styles, the inclusion of women adds behind the scenes discussion rather than direct confrontation on the floor of the House. Solutions to increase the number of women parliamentarians Solutions usually take three forms: quotas for women in Parliament; reservation for women in political parties; awareness, education and role modelling that encourage women towards politics. The 73rd and 74th amendments to the Indian Constitution reserve one-third of local body seats for women. However, reservation for one-third of the seats for women in the Lok Sabha has been tabled as a bill several times until as recently as 2008. Each time the bill has lapsed. India should have an Election Commission-led effort to encourage reservation for women in political parties. Reservation in political parties will also require education, encouragement, and role-modelling for women to aspire to a political role as it is in the party’s interest to ensure that their candidate wins. Conclusion: India has had a long-serving woman prime minister and several women chief ministers and speakers of the House. Yet its record of women parliamentarians is woefully poor. For a balanced future for the country, this trend needs to be changed. Connecting the dots: The absence of women at the level of policy making is a serious impediment to inclusive growth. Elucidate. Politically empowered women can contribute better to the developmental process. Do you agree? Comment. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about United Nations International Court of Justice and International Criminal court are the two dispute resolution mechanisms of UN. All member states of UN are also members of UNESCO. Economic and Social Council along with the Trusteeship Council are among the six main organs of UN. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 2 and 3 Only 3 1 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements about ‘International Court of Justice (ICJ)’ Statute of the International Court of Justice, which is an integral part of the United Nations Charter established the ICJ It is composed of fifteen judges elected to nine-year terms by Permanent members of the UNSC Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the below statements about Union Territories in India: UTs are the members of the federal system in India. There is no uniformity in their administrative set-up. An administrator of a UT is an agent of the centre like a governor. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 2 and 3 only 2 only 1 and 2 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.4) In what regard the Centre have special relationship with respect to NCT of Delhi as compared to other states? Centre appoints Lieutenant Governor of NCT of Delhi unilaterally while Governor of a State is appointed only after consultation with the Chief Minister of the respective State. Chief Minister of NCT of Delhi is appointed by the Lieutenant Governor of NCT of Delhi while the Chief Minister of a State is appointed by the Governor of that State. Which of the above statement(s) is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) An administrator of a union territory is an agent of the President appointed by the President head of state like a governor Select the appropriate code: 2 only 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ Not without an explanation: when judges recuse themselves The Hindu India’s options after Pulwama The Hindu The contractual functionary The Hindu Pay people for data The Hindu Why socialism is gaining traction among millennials? 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