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

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 6th to 12th January, 2019 ARCHIVES IBBI amends the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (Liquidation Process) Regulations, 2016 The amendment clarifies that a person, who is not eligible under the Code to submit a resolution plan for insolvency resolution of the corporate debtor, shall not be a party in any manner to a compromise or arrangement of the corporate debtor under section 230 of the Companies Act, 2013.  It also clarifies that a secured creditor cannot sell or transfer an asset, which is subject to security interest, to any person, who is not eligible under the Code to submit a resolution plan for insolvency resolution of the corporate debtor. The amendment provides that a secured creditor, who proceeds to realise its security interest, shall contribute its share of the insolvency resolution process cost, liquidation process cost and workmen’s dues, within 90 days of the liquidation commencement date.  It shall also pay excess of realised value of the asset, which is subject to security interest, over the amount of its claims admitted, within 180 days of the liquidation commencement date. Where the secured creditor fails to pay such amounts to the Liquidator within 90 days or 180 days, as the case may be, the asset shall become part of Liquidation Estate. The amendment provides that a Liquidator shall deposit the amount of unclaimed dividends, if any, and undistributed proceeds, if any, in a liquidation process along with any income earned thereon into the Corporate Liquidation Account before he submits an application for dissolution of the corporate debtor.  It also provides a process for a stakeholder to seek withdrawal from the Corporate Liquidation Account. Year End Review 2019- Department of Higher Education National Education Policy: In the year of 2019 Dr K. Kasturirangan Committee submitted the Draft National Education Policy. The Government of India had initiated the process of formulating a New Education Policy to meet the changing dynamics of the requirements of the population with regard to quality education, innovation and research, aiming to make India a knowledge superpower by equipping its students with the necessary skills and knowledge and to eliminate the shortage of manpower in science, technology, academics and industry. Launched Pradhan Mantri Innovative Learning Program (DHRUV) to identify and encourage talented children to enrich their skills and knowledge. Five-year vision plan 'Education Quality Upgradation and Inclusion Programme (EQUIP)' finalised and released by HRD Ministry: Sets out to deliver further on principles of Access, Inclusion, Quality, Excellence and enhancing employability in Higher Education. EQUIP is a vision plan aiming at ushering transformation in India’s higher education system by implementing strategic interventions in the sector over five years (2019-2024). Currently EQUIP has been submitted for in principal approval of EFC. Institution of Eminence (IoE) declared 10 institutions in public sector and 10 institutions in private sector have to be declared as IoE.  Each Public institute (IoE) will be eligible to receive Rs. 1000 crore during next 5 years. 10 Public Institutions are IISc Bangalore, IIT Delhi, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, IIT Kharagpur, University of Hyderabad, Banaras Hindu University, University of Delhi, Jadavpur University & Anna University. 10 Private institutions are BITS Pilani, MAHE Karnataka, Jio Institute, Amrita Vishwavidyapeetham, Tamil Nadu , Vellore Institute of Technology, Tamil Nadu, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology, Odisha, O.P. Jindal Global University, Haryana, Bharti Institute, Satya Bharti Foundation, Mohali, Shiv Nadar University, Uttar Pradesh. Scheme for Transformational and Advanced Research in Sciences (STARS) To be implemented, monitored and managed by IISc, Bangalore. For providing extra mural funding to faculty of HE institutions for research projects in basic sciences. Launch of Impactful Policy Research in Social Science (IMPRESS) to support the social science research in the higher educational institutions and to enable research to guide policy making. SWAYAM 2.0 To offer Online Degree Programmes through SWAYAM by Top Ranking Universities Higher Scalability and Performance Enhanced features for faculty and students Improved assessment and evaluation Internationalisation Translation to Indian languages Local chapters and mentors SWAYAM PRABHA- DTH Educational Channels Project for telecasting high quality educational programs through 32 DTH channels on 24x7 basis to reach out to student/learners of India with wide reach and minimal cost.  It aims to support those students who do not have good learning options like lack of teacher or internet etc.  It also aims to provide dedicated channels ‘IITPAL’ to assist the students of 11 and 12 standards aspiring to join premier educational institutions in the country. Scheme for Higher Education Youth in Apprenticeship and Skills (SHREYAS) A new scheme for Higher Education Youth in Apprenticeship and Skills (SHREYAS) was launched for providing industry apprenticeship opportunities to the general graduates exiting through the National Apprenticeship Promotional Scheme (NAPS).  The program aims to enhance the employability of Indian youth by providing ‘on the job work exposure’ and earning of stipend. National Educational Alliance for Technology (NEAT) Finalized a newly proposed scheme i.e. National Education Alliance of Technologies (NEAT) through PPP Model between MHRD and EdTech companies For offering Adaptive and personalized learning through Artificial Intelligence (AI) to the students with specific emphasis on students from economically and socially backward regions. Year End Review 2019 - Ministry of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare Launch of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY) PM-KMY provides for payment of minimum pension of Rs.3000/- per month to the eligible small and marginal farmers on attaining the age of 60 years.   It is voluntary and contributory pension scheme, with entry age of 18 to 40 years.  The monthly contribution by farmer ranges between Rs.55 to 200.  Central Government will contribute an equal amount in the pension scheme.   Till now 19, 19, 802 beneficiaries have been registered. Launch of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) PM-KISAN Scheme provides for transfer of an amount of Rs. 6000/- per year in three equal instalments each of Rs. 2000/- directly into the bank account of beneficiary farmer families. The Scheme initially covered only small and marginal farmer families with land holding upto 2 hectares as beneficiaries, subject to certain exclusion criteria for higher income status.  The Government later extended the scheme with effect from 1st June 2019 to all farmer families irrespective of land holding size, subject to applicable exclusions.  Since the launch of PM Kisan till now about 8.12 crore farmer families have been benefitted and more than Rs. 48,937 crore has been released under the scheme.  A new facility has been provided on PM-KISAN Web-portal (www.pmkisan.gov.in) through ‘Farmers’ Corner’ Link to facilitate the farmers for self-registration, edit  his/her name in PM-Kisan data base as per Aadhar Card, access the beneficiary list and status of payment.  The farmers are being facilitated for self-registration and data correction through Common Service Centers.   e-NAM –One Nation One Market 421 new mandis have been approved for integration under the e-NAM.  Along with these, FPOs have also been on-boarded on e-NAM portal and they have started uploading their produce for trading from their premise.  Other Initiatives and Achievements: 25 Seed-Hub Centres have been sanctioned across the country for increasing availability of quality seeds of Nutri-Cereals (Millets) 12.40 lakh Soil Health Card has been distributed to farmers under Model Village Project. Under Farm Mechanization 1,44,113 machineries have been distributed and 2300 Custom Hiring Centres have been established during current year (2019-20). During 2019-20, 32,808 machineries have been distributed and 8662 Custom Hiring Centres have been established under Crop Residue Management Programme. Muti lingual Mobile App “CHC-Farm Machinery” was launched, which helps the farmers for getting rented farm machinery and implements through Custom Hiring Service Centres (CHC) in their area.  As on date, 41,992 CHCs with 1,33,723 Agricultural machinery for renting out are registered on this Mobile app.   During current year (2019-20) 73,658 hectare additional area has been covered under Horticulture Crops and 59 Nurseries have been established. In-depth Review of India's Energy Policies report By: International Energy Agency (IEA) Vision: Energy Access + Energy Efficiency + Energy Sustainability + Energy Security + Energy Justice During the period 2015 to 2018, investments in the energy sector in India recorded the second highest growth in the world. Ujjwala Yojana: The remotest corners of India have been touched for cleaner fuel access under it. India’s transformation to a gas-based economy and developing indigenously produced biofuels, apart from renewable energy and energy efficiency measures, can potentially achieve the much-needed carbon reductions. As part of the energy transition, decarbonisation of the energy sector is picking up momentum in India. An estimated investment of 100 billion dollar in oil and gas infrastructure has been lined up. The gas pipeline network will soon be covering the length and breadth of the country; from Kutch in Western India to Kohima in the East, and from Kashmir in the North to Kanyakumari in the South. Government has approved viability Gap Funding/ Capital Grant at 60 percent of the estimated cost of Rs 9265 crore for the North East gas grid project to develop gas pipeline grid of 1656 Km in the eight States of the North-eastern region Working to build City Gas Distribution Network covering more than 400 districts of India. This network will serve 72% of India’s population with cleaner and affordable gas over more than 50 % of India’s geography. Enhancing international engagement on global oil security issues is already an active goal being pursued by the Ministry. Energy has become an essential commodity in our bilateral trade engagements with several key trading partners and in positioning India as an important strategic player in global energy landscape. On the way to achieve 20% ethanol blending in petrol and 5% bio-diesel in diesel by 2030. Indeed, to promote energy sustainability, our new National Biofuel policy focuses on waste-to-wealth creation and targets to generate various types of bio-fuels from agriculture residue and municipal waste Cabinet approves  Agreement between India and Mongolia on Cooperation in the Exploration and Uses of Outer Space for Peaceful and Civilian Purposes This Agreement shall enable pursuing the following potential interest areas of cooperation such as, space science, technology and applications including remote sensing of the earth; satellite communication and satellite based navigation; Space science and planetary exploration; use of spacecraft and space systems and ground system; and application of space technology. The Agreement would lead to set up a Joint Working Group, drawing members from DOS/ISRO and Communications and Information Technology Authority of the Government of Mongolia, which will further work out the plan of action including the time-frame and the means of implementing this Agreement. Memorandum of Understanding between India and Sweden on cooperation in Polar Science India and Sweden are both signatories to the Antarctic Treaty and to the Protocol to the Antarctic Treaty on Environmental Protection.  Sweden as one of the eight "Arctic States" is one of the Member State in the Arctic Council whereas India has the Observer Status in the Arctic Council.  Sweden has a vigorous scientific program in the Polar Regions, both in Arctic and Antarctic. India likewise, has sustained scientific research programs in both the Polar Regions as well as in the oceanic realm. Memorandum of Understanding between India and United Kingdom for Enabling Energy Self Sufficiency for Indian Railways Each Participant will, subject to the laws, rules, regulations and national policies from time to time in force  governing the subject matter in their respective countries, endeavour to take necessary steps to enable energy efficiency and  energy self-sufficiency for Indian Railways. The parties agree for Energy planning for Indian Railways i.e. Solar & Wind Energy sector, Adopting energy efficiency practices, Enabling Fuel efficiency, Electric Vehicle charging infrastructure deployment, Battery operated Shunting Locomotives.  Capacity development like training programmes, industrial visits, field visits etc. or any other form co-operation may be approved in writing by the Participants. Amendments to the Motor Vehicles (Amendment) Bill, 2019: Amendments will ensure concurrence of the State Governments while formulating National Transport Policy and making schemes for national, multimodal and inter-state transportation of goods and passengers by the Central Government. Memorandum of Cooperation between India and Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) on cooperation in the field of Health To reduce maternal, neonatal and child morbidity and mortality, improve key nutrition outcomes, by improving the reach, coverage and quality of essential primary health, immunization and nutrition services. To increase the basket of choice and quality for family planning methods, especially for reversible methods, and increase access amongst younger women. To reduce the burden of select infectious diseases [TB, Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL), Lymphatic Filariasis(LF)] To strengthen health systems, including aspects such as budget utilization, management and skills of human resources for health, digital health, strengthening supply chains and monitoring systems. Ratification of Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement between India and France:  The Agreement represents a major milestone in enhancing people-to-people contacts, fostering mobility of students, academics, researchers and skilled professionals and strengthening cooperation on issues related to irregular migration and human trafficking between the two sides.  The Agreement is a testimony to India's rapidly expanding multi-faceted relationship with France and symbolizes the increasing trust and confidence between the two sides. Prelims oriented news Karmayoddha Granth: On the life of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi Muppavarapu Venkaiah Naidu National Award for Excellence: Eminent Agricultural Scientist Dr M S Swaminathan Muppavarapu National Award for Social Service: Dr. Gutta Muniratnam PURVODAYA: Accelerated development of eastern India through integrated steel hub in Kolkata, West Bengal; will script rise of Eastern India by accelerated development of steel sector Four Refurbished Heritage Buildings in Kolkata Old Currency Building Belvedere House Metcalfe House  Victoria Memorial Hall Plans to launch Indian Institute of Heritage Conservation: In order to generate resources, take care of the management of these iconic cultural heritage centres, the union government is considering to launch Indian Institute of Heritage Conservation which would be given the status of a deemed university. BEE Notifies New Energy Performance Standards for Air Conditioners: The 240C default setting has been made mandatory from Jan 1, 2020 for all room air conditioners covered under the ambit of BEE star-labelling program vide this notification. Additionally, the Indian Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (ISEER) as per the new standards will range from (3.30 - 5.00) for split and (2.70 – 3.50) for window air conditioners Steep reduction in pendency of Vigilance complaints: There has been a steep reduction in the pendency of vigilance complaints in the last few years. Administrative Ministry: Department of Personnel & Training From an average of 3,000 in the last three preceding years to 876 in 2019, of which 683 pertain to December, 2019.  A large number of old pending cases of over 5 to 10 years' duration were reviewed and most of the cases were disposed of, thereby drastically reducing pendency from 1,500 cases of the last three years to about 950 at the end of December 2019. Launch of a robust and comprehensive online reporting mechanism for Chief Vigilance Officers of various Ministries/Departments/Organizations under the Commission: This new mechanism has enabled a more focused and timely review of vigilance and anti-corruption cases in various wings and departments of the Central government organizations. In addition, Preventive Vigilance booklet has been brought out with the objective to share the case studies on systematic initiatives/improvements undertaken. Launch of Paperless Licensing process for Petroleum Road Tankers to provide ease of doing business Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has launched paperless licensing process through Petroleum and Explosives Safety Organisation (PESO) for road tankers for transportation of petroleum under the Petroleum Rules, 2002. A significant move towards paperless and green India that will provide simpler mechanism, ease of living and business to the petroleum road tanker owners Moving towards digitisation, the process will include filing the applications online. This will also include online payment of fees which will go directly to the concerned officer’s ID without any manual interface.  Applicants, at each stage of processing of the application, will be intimated via SMS and email, whether discrepancy or grant of licence or approval. This will be in addition to the same being reflected in the applicant’s profile. The new process will update the applicant at each stage triggering an e-mail and SMS immediately when the licence is granted by the officer concerned and is dispatched electronically. All this process will be without any need for printing and physical dispatch. This extraordinary and forward looking initiative is directly going to benefit more than one lakh petroleum road tanker owners who together hold more than half of total licences issued under the Petroleum Rules, 2002.  An added advantage of this move is that the authenticity of the licence can be verified through public domain available on PESO’s website. This automation is going to revolutionise the petroleum & gas industry benefitting it immensely. Something to ponder upon: 'The present century might be yours, but the 21st century will belong to India'. Do you agree? Explain.

IASbaba's Monthly Current Affairs Magazine

IAS UPSC Current Affairs Magazine DECEMBER 2019

IAS UPSC Current Affairs Magazine DECEMBER 2019 ARCHIVES Hello Friends, This is the 55th edition of IASbaba’s Current Affairs Monthly Magazine. Current Affairs for UPSC Civil Services Examination is an important factor in this preparation. An effort towards making your Current Affairs for IAS UPSC Preparation qualitative. We hope you make the best use of it! This edition covers all important current affairs issues that were in news for the month of DECEMBER 2019 DOWNLOAD THE MAGAZINE- CLICK HERE

Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – You are the Master – Inspirational Educative Articles

You are the Master: Up until now, everything you’ve been doing in your life has been happening through your mind. Even when you wanted to look at things from your heart, love or admire things just for what they are, your mind has always interfered. “Love is dangerous. Something is not right here. What is the use of this compassion? Remember getting hurt?” This is the conversation of the mind, and this is how it interferes and blocks your pure perception of life. In many ways, the mind is nothing but a collection of all your fears. All that you don’t want to experience and relive is hidden in your mind. If you have a negative emotion, what do you do with it? You stuff it away in your mind. There is simply no other place to put it. Meditation is a difficult journey because you have to pass through your entire life’s mess and re-look at it from a new perspective. You have to pass through all the junk, garbage and bullshit you have stored in your mind. You might think that you have hidden away your negative emotions successfully, but negative emotions can never be hidden inside forever; they will always come out as soon as the opportunity arises. Throughout your life, you have been hiding all kinds of desires, emotions and experiences. Without your knowledge, your mind has become a dumping ground for your unresolved emotions. When you sit quiet and try to watch your mind for the first time, you will be disturbed. You will realize how difficult it is to sit quiet and do nothing, even for a few minutes. There are too many thoughts, fears and emotions to deal with. This is why meditation is such an important necessity of life.  Meditation is necessary because your mind has become too noisy. Your mind has hijacked all of your other senses and has completely taken over your life. Your mind is a useful tool, and if you want to use it, you should be able to. If you don’t want to use it though, you should just be able to just leave it aside. It’s like the way you use your hand. Just imagine that your hand insists that you use it all the time. How would you be able to carry on a conversation with someone if your hand is constantly flopping around? You would look stupid not having control of it. Yet, look at the mind: It never sleeps, it never allows you to rest, it is constantly confrontational, constantly arguing, and constantly trying to do something. Mind is a great tool and it has its uses, but only when it is in your control. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Meditation Farm and IASBABA.”

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th January 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th January 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Nepal’s Language Seke Near Extinct Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I- Society  In News The New York Times recently reported that the “near-extinct” Nepalese language Seke has just 700 speakers around the world. Possible reason: Nepali which is Nepal’s official language is considered to be crucial for getting educational and employment opportunities outside villages.Thus,the younger generation does not find much use in learning the language, giving preference to Nepali and English. The vulnerability of the language is also linked to the migration of people to places where Seke is not spoken, which has reduced the intergenerational transmission of the language Do You know? The year 2019, was the International Year of Indigenous Languages, mandated by the United Nations As per UNESCO, roughly 57 per cent of the world’s estimated 6,000 languages are safe, about 10 per cent are vulnerable, 10.7 per cent are definitely endangered There are roughly 201 endangered languages in India and about 70 in Nepal. Chinese paddlefish (Psephurus gladius): Gone Extinct Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Environment Conservation  In News It is a freshwater fish, dating back from 200 million years ago whose ancestral home was the Yangtze River. It is also known as Chinese swordfish with a snot like structure packed with cells to detect electrical activity in prey animals such as crustaceans It is declared extinct by Chinese researchers based on the Red List criteria of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Overfishing and habitat fragmentation — including dam building — caused its population to dwindle from the 1970s onward Coronavirus: New virus identified by Chinese researchers Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II- Health In News Coronaviruses are a specific family of viruses, with some of them causing less-severe damage, such as the common cold, and others causing respiratory and intestinal diseases A coronavirus has many “regularly arranged” protrusions on its surface, because of which the entire virus particle looks like an emperor’s crown, hence the name “coronavirus” So far, there are four known disease-causing coronaviruses, among which the best known are the SARS corona virus and the Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) coronavirus, both of which can cause severe respiratory diseases. Does it impact only humans? Apart from human beings, coronaviruses can affect mammals including pigs, cattle, cats, dogs, martens, camels, hedgehogs and some birds. Integrated Steel Hub Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains –II- Indian Polity- Cooperative Federalism; GS-III- Economy In News Integrated Steel Hub will encompass Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal and Northern Andhra Pradesh  It aims to attract investment of nearly $70 billion in the steel sector and spur economic growth across eastern India It is a ‘Purvodaya’ initiative for focused development of eastern states. The eastern states collectively hold nearly 80% of the country’s iron ore, most of domestic coking coal reserves and significant portion of chromite, bauxite and dolomite reserves. Out of the 300 mt steel capacity by 2030-31, the region alone is capable of contributing over 200 mt. STATE ENERGY EFFICIENCY INDEX 2019 released Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Economy In News The index tracks the progress of Energy Efficiency initiatives in 36 States and Union Territories based on 97 significant indicators. The index is developed by Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) in association with Alliance for an Energy Efficient Economy (AEEE). The first such Index was launched on August, 2018. The index this year incorporates qualitative, quantitative and outcome-based indicators to assess energy efficiency initiatives, programs and outcomes in five distinct sectors – buildings, industry, municipalities, transport, agriculture, and DISCOMs. For rational comparison, States/UTs are categorised as ‘Front Runner’, ‘Achiever’, ‘Contender’ and ‘Aspirant’ based on aggregated Total Primary Energy Supply (TPES) required to meet the state’s actual energy demand (electricity, coal, oil, gas, etc.) across sectors. The top performing states in the State EE Index 2019 - Haryana, Kerala and Karnataka - are in the ‘Achiever’ category. Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) Inaugurated  Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Cyber Security In News The I4C is a seven-pronged system, which includes a cybercrime reporting portal, analysis of threats, capacity building, research and innovation, creating an ecosystem for cybercrime management and a joint cybercrime investigation platform for law enforcement agencies. I4C is located in New Delhi Do You know? In Aug 2019, the MHA had unveiled its National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal through which citizens can report any kind of cybercrime irrespective of the place where it has occurred So far, more than 700 police districts and more than 3,900 police stations have been connected with this portal (MAINS FOCUS) Health TOPIC:General Studies 2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, 
 Polio Disease Context: The World Health Organization announced that polio will continue to remain a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) for three months. What is Polio? Polio, short for poliomyelitis, or infantile paralysis, is an infectious disease caused by the poliovirus. The virus destroys nerve cells in the spinal cord causing muscle wasting and paralysis. There are three wild types of poliovirus (WPV) – type 1, type 2, and type 3. People need to be protected against all three types of the virus in order to prevent polio disease Symptoms: Many people who are infected with the poliovirus don't become sick and have no symptoms. However, those who do become ill develop paralysis, which can sometimes be fatal Is it Curable? There is no cure for polio, it can only be prevented. Polio vaccine, given multiple times, can protect a child for life. Vaccine contains weakened-virus activating an immune response in the body, building up antibodies against virus. What is Vaccine derived Polio Virus? These are rare strains of poliovirus that have genetically mutated from the virus strain contained in the oral polio vaccine(OPV) administered to children. 90% of VDPV cases were due to the type 2 component in OPV Does Polio still exist? Polio does still exist, although polio cases have decreased by over 99% since 1988, from an estimated more than 350 000 cases to 22 reported cases in 2017.  Today, only 3 countries in the world have never stopped transmission of wild polio virus (Pakistan, Afghanistan and Nigeria). Why has WHO raised the alarm now?  Due to the rising risk of international spread of wild poliovirus type-1. There were 156 cases of wild polio type-1 cases in 2019 compared with 28 in 2018.  An equally disturbing development is on the outbreak of vaccine-derived poliovirus cases in 16 countries; in all, there were 249 vaccine-derived poliovirus cases in 2019. Despite the progress achieved since 1988, as long as a single child remains infected with poliovirus, children in all countries are at risk of contracting the disease.  The poliovirus can easily be imported into a polio-free country and can spread rapidly amongst unimmunized populations.  Failure to eradicate polio could result in as many as 200 000 new cases every year, within 10 years, all over the world. Concern for India On 27 March 2014, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared India a polio free country, since no cases of wild polio been reported in for five years.  With rising case in the neighbouring country, where Pakistan (128 of 156) accounted for the most number of cases in 2019, there are dangers of virus getting exported from Pakistan to Iran and Afghanistan which is already facing humanitarian crisis due to wars. Way forward Vaccine-derived polioviruses must be managed in the same way as wild poliovirus outbreaks. The solution is the same for all polio outbreaks: vaccinate every child several times with oral polio vaccine to stop polio transmission, regardless of whether the virus is wild or vaccine-derived. International community must come together to vaccinate children in Afghanistan (total of 8,60,000 children in Afghanistan did not receive polio vaccine due to security threats) and Pakistan.  Do You know? Nigeria is all set to be declared as having eradicated polio this year, and in turn, the entire African region will become free of wild poliovirus Connecting the dots Mission Indradhanush of the government of India India is one of the largest producers and exporters of vaccines yet has one of the highest preventable childhood mortality rates of any country in the world. Why? (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers.  Comments Up-voted by IASbaba are also the “correct answers”. Q.1) Seke language often seen in news is predominantly associated with which region/country? North-East region of India Bhutan Nepal  SriLanka Q.2) Indian Cyber Crime Coordination (I4C) is located in which City of India? Bengaluru Chennai Hyderabad None of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements about Chinese paddlefish It is a freshwater fish having an ancestral home in Yangtze river and Yellow river basin in China It is in Critically endangered list of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements about Integrated Steel Hub that is being planned in Eastern part of India It aims to attract investment of nearly $70 billion in the steel sector and spur economic growth across eastern India It is part of ‘Purvodaya’ initiative for focused development of eastern states. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements about CoronaVirus These are newly discovered species of virus which can cause severe respiratory and intestinal diseases They are known to infect only humans Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.6) Consider the following statements about State Energy Efficiency Index  It is released by NITI Aayog It helps states contribute towards national goals on energy security and climate action by helping drive Energy Efficiency policies and programs Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 10 JAN 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 B 2 C 3 C 4 C 5 D MUST READ About the challenges to Indian Health System The Wire About Supreme Court verdict on Suspension of Internet IE About Dengue The Hindu About evolution of theory of Human Rights The Hindu

60 DAYS PROGRAMME-PRELIMS 2020

PRELIMS EXCLUSIVE PROGRAMME (PEP)- GEOGRAPHY LECTURE by Atyab Sir

Hello Friends, Its been a week that the Prelims Exclusive Programme (PEP)- 2020 started at IASbaba. And we cannot thank you enough for the amazing response to this program. We have been receiving great feedback/suggestions and considering hundreds of requests, releasing one of the Geography Lectures in its entirety. This will surely address thousands of queries regarding the quality of PEP Classroom Lectures. If you have a fear of Prelims and if you wish to crack Prelims in this attempt, then PEP is the program for you.  Prelims Exclusive Programme 2020 comes up with an inclusive Prelims program which will include the following – Click on the features to read complete details. SAMPLE HANDOUTS- DOWNLOAD  SAMPLE TESTS- DOWNLOAD    NOTE- TLP CONNECT MAINS 2020 PHASE will be FREE for all students joining the ENTIRE PEP-2020 program (not for students joining PEP-subject wise or on À la carte basis) 1. Mentorship Based Programme 2. Topper’s Enrichment Sessions 3. Prelims Strategy Classes (1-Week Program) 4. Subject-Wise Daily Class and Tests 5. Prelims Oriented Current Affairs Classes & Tests (Weekly) 6. Tests – Close to 100 Tests & Close to 100 Classes 7. Exclusive features for Online Mode 8. Exclusive for Bangalore Students 9. Quality Hand Outs You can read the details of ENTIRE PEP Programme here 

RSTV Video

Tackling Infant Mortality – The Big Picture - RSTV IAS UPSC

Tackling Infant Mortality Archives General studies 2 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health In News:  The death toll of infants at the JK Lon Hospital in Rajasthan's Kota has reached 110 in the past 36 days. In Gujarat the State run civil hospitals in Rajkot and Ahmedabad witnessed death of 134 and 85 infants respectively in the month of December, 2019.  While Rajasthan's Infant Mortality Rate in 2017 stood at 38 which is higher than the national average of 33, this figure for Gujarat was below the national average in 2017 at 30. Infant Mortality Rate:Death of children under the age of 1 is measured by Infant Mortality Rate which is the number of deaths per 1000 live births.  How high are the mortality numbers? India has an annual birth cohort of approximately 26 million. The infant mortality rate (IMR) in the country currently stands at 33 per 1,000 live births. This means babies numbering in the region of 8,50,000 die every year in India, or an average daily toll to 2,350.  Gujarat has an annual birth cohort of 1.2 million. In 2017, the infant mortality rate in the state was 30 per 1,000 live births. This means the state sees about 36,000 deaths a year, or an average 98 a day. In Rajasthan, an estimated 1.65 million births take place every year. The infant mortality rate is 38 per 1000 live births which implies an estimated 62,843 deaths annually, or an average 172 every day. Do Gujarat and Rajasthan have the highest infant mortality? Between 2014 and 2017, India’s IMR has declined by 15.4%.  At a decline rate of 17.4%, Rajasthan has been ahead of the national average in reducing IMR while Gujarat has a decline rate of 14.3%. The IMR in Rajasthan dropped from 46 per 1,000 live births in 2014 to 38, and in Gujarat from 35 to 30.  In 2017, states such as Arunachal Pradesh (42), Madhya Pradesh (47), Assam (44), Uttar Pradesh (41), Meghalaya (39), Odisha (41) and Chhattisgarh (38) had a higher IMR than Gujarat and Rajasthan. Arunachal, Tripura and Manipur have recorded a negative reduction rate between 2014 and 2017, which means child death rates there have gone up. In Arunachal it went up from 30 to 42, in Tripura from 21 to 29 and in Manipur from 11 to 12. Why do so many infants die in India every year? Lack of education in the mother Malnutrition (more than half of Indian women are anaemic) Age of the mother at the time of birth, spacing, and whether the child is born at home or in a facility (infection risks in a non-institutional birth) Pneumonia, Prematurity, low birth weight, Diarrhoeal diseases, Neonatal infections, Birth asphyxia Low vaccine compliance level According to a UNICEF factsheet on child mortality in India, “… Children born to mothers with at least 8 years of schooling have 32% lesser chances of dying in neonatal period and 52% lesser chances in the post-neonatal period, as compared to the illiterate mothers.” It also notes that infant and under-five mortality rates are highest among mothers under age 20. The rates are lowest among children born to mothers between the ages of 20-24, remain low up to 25-34, and increase again after that age. ..and then there is structural violence The deaths in Kota, Muzaffarpur and Gorakhpur should draw our attention to a conglomeration of factors that govern child health in India. Most of the children who died in Gorakhpur, Muzaffarpur and Kota belong to the lowest strata of the society – therefore, they were victims of structural violence. In India, this structural violence is unleashed through a multitude of social, political and economic factors —  Apathy of healthcare professionals,  Poor health services/infrastructure in rural hinterlands,  Low rates of female literacy,  Economic inequality,  The rigid caste system,  Social apartheid,  Lack of political will and patriarchy What measures are in place for sick newborns? Special newborn care units (SNCUs) have been established at district hospitals and sub-district hospitals with an annual delivery load more than 3,000 to provide care for sick newborns: that is, all type of neonatal care except assisted ventilation and major surgeries. It is a separate unit in close proximity to the labour room with 12 or more beds, and managed by adequately trained doctors, staff nurses and support staff to provide 24×7 services. India Newborn Action Plan (INAP) was launched in 2014 to make concerted efforts towards attainment of the goals of “Single Digit Neonatal Mortality Rate” and “Single Digit Still birth Rate,” Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) and Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakaram (JSSK) was started to promote institutional deliveries so as to reduce IMR The Way Forward The death of children due to largely-preventable illnesses is a matter of serious concern and calls for urgent introspection. Unfortunately, we have failed to learn from past experiences. What is urgently required is not the involvement of private players but a sincere engagement by the state in matters concerning peoples’ health. Reports have shown that most of the babies in Kota died due to suffocation at birth; low birth-weight and infections were the other significant causes of death. These are highly-preventable reasons. The role of the state in delivering health to its people cannot be overemphasised. We need to question the government’s priorities in a country where nearly a million children die every year. Connecting the Dots: The deaths in Kota bare the light on a healthcare system founded on apathy towards the poor. Discuss. Kota happened because we slept after Muzaffarpur and the tragedy in Bihar happened because we were complacent after Gorakhpur. Comment. Do you think profit and private involvement in healthcare leads to an erosion of trust? Examine. Does it make more sense for the government to lay more emphasis on women and child development to ensure overall socio-economic transformation. Do you agree? Substantiate.   Essay Topic: The idea that some lives matter less is the root of all that is wrong with the world.

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 10th January 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 10th January 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD)  Part of: GS Prelims – Important events and GS-I- Modern History In News Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is celebrated on 9th January every year to mark the contribution of Overseas Indian community in the development of India. January 9 was chosen as the day to celebrate this occasion since it was on this day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi returned to India from South Africa, led India’s freedom struggle and changed the lives of Indians forever. Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) Convention is celebrated once in every two years to strengthen the engagement of the overseas Indian community with the Government of India and reconnect them with their roots. During the Convention, selected overseas Indians are also honoured with the prestigious Pravasi Bharatiya Samman Award to recognize their contributions to various fields both in India and abroad.  World Hindi Day: Celebrated on Jan 10 Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I- Society; GS-II- Polity (Schedule Languages) In News World Hindi day is commemorated every year with the objective to promote use of Hindi language abroad On this day in 2006 the First World Hindi Conference was organized in Nagpur with the aim to promote the language worldwide and since then every year 10th January is being observed as the World Hindi Day. Madhavpur Mela Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains I - Culture In News The eight States of the Northern Eastern Region will participate in a big way during the Madhavpur Mela of Gujarat due to be held in the first week of April 2020. Madhavpur lies on the seashore, close to Porbandar. A 15th century Madhavrai temple marks the site. The Madhavpur Ghed, a small but culturally significant village, is the place where, according to folklore, Lord Krishna married Rukmini, the daughter of King Bhishmaka. This event is commemorated by a cultural fair held every year, commencing on Ram Navam The Madhavpur Mela of Gujarat shares its connect to the Mishmi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. The Mishmi Tribe traces its ancestry to the legendary King Bhishmak and through him to his daughter Rukmini and Lord Krishna. Curative Petition: Nirbhaya Case convicts file Curative pleas in Supreme Court Part of: GS Prelims- Judiciary and GS Mains –II- Indian Polity In News A curative petition, which follows the dismissal of a review petition, is the last legal avenue open for convicts in the Supreme Court. Came into Existence: It is a rare remedy devised by a Constitution Bench of the Supreme Court in its judgment in the Rupa Ashok Hurra case in 2002.  Grounds of Filing Curative Petition: A party can take only two limited grounds in a curative petition —  One-that he was not heard by the court before the adverse judgment was passed, and  Two- the judge was biased.  NITI Aayogs’s PPP Policy for Health Sector Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II- Health and Governance In News The PPP plan drafted by NITI Aayofg involves linking private medical colleges with the government district hospitals, in which the private entities can convert half of the hospital beds into paid beds Reason: Limited resources available with the Union and State governments Criticism:  Regressive model which commercialises the already small public health system  It would further reduce access to public health institutions: especially when only 25% of non-hospitalised and 45% of hospitalised patients seek health care from public health institutions Increases out-of-pocket health expenditure of Citizens Rann Utsav Part of: GS Prelims and GS I- Geography In News It is the annual white desert carnival held by Gujarat Tourism Department in the country’s largest salt desert ‘Great Rann of Kutch’. It celebrates cultural and artistic heritage of Kutch. The activities include folk dance performances, handicraft shopping, star gazing and sightseeing. Tiger Reserves: Demand to notify certain areas of Wildlife Sanctuaries in Goa as Tiger Reserve Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Environment Conservation In News Mahadayi, Netravali and Cotigao sanctuaries and some part of Mahaveer National Park in Goa has seen the presence of Tigers that has pushed Politicians & activists to demand Tiger Reserve status in these areas Sanctuaries and National Parks are areas of significant ecological, floral, faunal or natural significance. They are notified by State Governments and protected by the Forest Department under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.  A National Park or Wildlife Sanctuary that is considered significant for protecting tigers can be additionally designated as a Tiger Reserve A Tiger Reserve consists of a ‘Core’ or ‘Critical Tiger Habitat’, which is to be managed as an inviolate area, and a ‘Buffer’ or Peripheral area immediately abutting a Core area, which may be accorded a lesser degree of habitat protection. The National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) is a statutory body formed in 2005-06, with an overarching supervisory/coordination role, performing functions as provided in the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. Green Credit Scheme Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Economy, Conservation In News In the current system, industry needs to compensate the loss of forest acquired for its commercial activity by paying the Forest department a fee. The department is then responsible for reforesting on other patch of land acquired by industry. About Green Credit Scheme – yet to be implemented It allows agencies to identify land and begin growing plantations. After three years, they would be eligible to be considered as compensatory forest land An industry needing forest land could then approach the agency and pay it for parcels of such forested land, and this would then be transferred to the Forest Department and be recorded as forest land. Benefits of the Scheme This allows “forests” to be traded as a commodity.  The Scheme allows the Forest Department to outsource one of its responsibilities of reforesting to non-government agencies. It thus fast tracks industrial projects and enhances ease of doing business without compromising on the environmental assets of the Nation.  (MAINS FOCUS) Indian Economy TOPIC:General Studies 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. 
 Infrastructure: Energy Investment Models Coal Sector in India: Norms liberalised for entry and regulations relaxed Context: The Cabinet approved the promulgation of Mineral Laws (Amendment) Ordinance 2020. Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 10th January 2020 What provisions does Ordinance contain? It allows Coal mining by any Companies Earlier: Only those in Power, Iron & Steel and Coal washery Business could bid for Mines It also does away with captive end-use criteria i.e. Coal can be commercially mined and sold to any buyer in an open market Earlier: The Coal mined by a licensee could be used for only specified purpose like for its own Thermal power plant i.e. they could not be sold in Open market like that of Coal India Ltd (Public Sector Enterprise) What are the advantages accruing from this changed regulatory regime?  Expands the pool of Potential bidders:  This will lead to better competition during auctions thus fetching better revenues for the government. Development of Coal market: End use restriction inhibited the growth and development of the market thus driving down the Coal production and also distorting free price discovery of the mined coal. Reduces Coal imports: India imported 235 million tonnes worth 1.71 Lakh Crore Rupees. Of these 135 million tonnes could have been substituted by domestic Coal production. Reduction in Coal imports leads to saving on foreign exchange reserves and also betters our trade balance. Brings an end to Monopoly of Coal India Ltd.: Movement from State controlled system to free-market economy which incentivizes the private sector to act as engines of growth. Efficient use of resources: Enhanced competition will inevitably lead to better utilization of the natural resources available in the country. Employment: Large investments in mining will create jobs in the country. Demand creation for other Sectors: Opening up of the sector will set off demand in critical sectors such as mining equipment and Heavy commercial vehicle industries. Infusion of Modern technologies into Coal Sector: The move will also help India gain access to sophisticated technology for underground mining used by global miners Helps achieve government target of 1.5 billion tonnes of domestic coal production by 2023-24. What are the possible challenges/demerits of this step? Procedural Delays: Government should ensure that approval and compliance procedures are not archaic & draconian which will increase the upfront cost thus deterring private players to enter the sector. Climatic Concerns: When countries across the world are moving away from fossil fuel resources this step to enhance Coal production is criticized by environmentalists Health Concerns: Coal burning releases Carbon dioxide, particulate matter, sulphur dioxide, nitrogen oxide and mercury- thus damaging the health of many people around the region. Interest of Coal India Ltd: This is a Maharatna PSU which is considered as a National asset and is listed in the stock exchanges. Opening up of the sector should not compromise the capability of CIL and avoid the way BSNL went down in telecom market. Employers of CIL: Nearly 3 Lakh people are employed in CIL. Opening of the sector should not endanger the growth prospects of CIL and the livelihood aspects of the employers. Labour Standards: Private companies in order to reduce their input costs and maximise their profits may subvert labour guidelines which may have detrimental effect on workers engaged in those enterprises. Way Ahead The move comes at a time when the window for fossil fuels is rapidly closing, and the global energy landscape evolving, with fundamental changes to the investment culture amid growing climate concerns.  Government thus needs to balance its commitments towards Climate Change and its imperative to push the developmental agenda. Promotion of Clean Coal Technology which is at present Cost prohibitive is the way to move ahead Connecting the dots Impact of opening up of Coal sector on India’s pledges made during Paris Climate Deal, especially in the backdrop of US withdrawing from the deal Should Railway sector also be opened up for private players Lessons learnt from Liberalisation of Telecom sector in the wake of declining fortunes of BSNL Should Air India be privatized in the light of mounting losses Environmental Conservation TOPIC: General Studies 3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment. 
 General Studies 2: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, 
 Australia Wildfires Context Australia’s devastating fire season that began in August 2019 continues unabated and caused large scale destruction particularly in New South Wales and Queensland region Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 10th January 2020 Source: Newsweek.Com Why are the wildfires unprecedented? Although Australia has always had bushfires, this season has been a lot worse than normal with nearly 12 million acres burned by the fires Very high temperatures (averaging 42O C), extended drought period(driest spring on record) and strong winds (spreads the bushfires) have converged to create disastrous fire conditions. Is Climate Change to Blame? Australia is normally hot and dry in the summer, but climate change, which brings longer and more frequent periods of extreme heat, worsens these conditions and makes vegetation drier and more likely to burn. Australia’s bush fires will become now more frequent and more intense as climate change worsens. Impact of Such wildfires Agricultural Production impacted Loss of Human lives Loss of Flora and Fauna- Loss of Biodiversity Leads to evacuation of communities – Temporary migration to other places Economic disruption Frequent wildfires in near future will make the region uninhabitable and thus catalysing environmental migration. Questions the developmental Model of the Country (Dependence on Coal Sector for its economic development which leads to GHG emissions) Questions the commitment of World towards battling Climate Change especially its impact now being clearly felt. This will pressurize US (which has withdrawn from the Paris deal) and other Countries to increase their Paris Deal commitments Impact on India Strengthen the voices of people who argue against India’s dependence on fossil fuels like Coal & petroleum India’s ability to import high quality of Coal from Australia will be impacted. Indian investment in Australia’s coal sector will be endangered Ex: Adani Carmichael Coal mine project in Galilee Basin in Queensland, Australia Moral Pressure on India to take up leadership of fighting climate change in the Asia-Pacific region. Way Ahead Adoption of Cleaner technologies which emits less greenhouse gases. Enhancing capabilities of government authorities to face similar such incidents in the future. Citizen awareness about the dangerous of Climate Change and thus persuade them to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle having less carbon footprint Diversifying energy basket so as to reduce dependence on Coal & other fossil fuels. Instead promoting use of renewable energy like solar power. Developing a comprehensive Migration & Refugee Policy in the wake of increasing possibilities of environmental refugees Connecting the dots Does India also have Climatic conditions similar to that in Australia which were responsible for wildfires? Do You Know? Coal is Australia’s second largest export behind iron ore. In 2016-17 Australia exported 202 million tonnes of thermal coal and 177 million tonnes of metallurgical coal with a combined value of $54 billion. Australian coal is highly sought after around the world for its high energy content and low impurities which make it ideal for use in modern High Efficiency-Low Emission (HELE) power plants and steel mills. India is the fourth largest producer of Coal and second largest importer of Coal (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers.  Comments Up-voted by IASbaba are also the “correct answers”. Q.1) Mahadayi and Mahaveer National Park are located in which State/UT of India? Karnataka Goa Pondicherry  Maharashtra Q.2) Rupa Ashok Hurra case in 2002 led to related to which of the following judicial remedies/pronouncements? Writ of Habeas Corpus Restriction of detention by State authorities Curative review petition None of the above Q.3) Which of the following are the benefits of the Green Credit Scheme? It allows forests to be traded as a commodity.  It allows the Forest Department to outsource one of its responsibilities of reforesting to non-government agencies Select the correct answer from the codes given below 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Madhavpura Mela often seen in news is celebrated in which State? Rajasthan Uttar Pradesh Gujarat Maharashtra Q.5) Consider the following statements Project Tiger was launched in 1973 with 9 tiger reserves for conserving our national animal, the tiger.  Project Tiger is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme of the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change providing central assistance to the tiger States for tiger conservation in designated tiger reserves. A National Park or Wildlife Sanctuary that is considered significant for protecting tigers can be additionally designated as a Tiger Reserve Which of the statement(s) given above is/are corr 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 ANSWERS FOR 09 JAN 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 B 3 B 4 D 5 A MUST READ About the challenges to Chief of Defence Staff The Hindu Importance of Ethics in research The Hindu About State of Open Source Software The Hindu On Democracy The Hindu

Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance: Book Review – World of our fathers – Irving Howe

World Of Our Fathers: Irving Howe In the animal kingdom, migration is one of the greatest of phenomenon. Migration is even more so adventurous and memorable among human beings. Millions of people around the world have migrated to other parts of the world in search of a better way of life. None can be as challenging as one to the Promised Land – America. World of our fathers is a beautiful, robust and comprehensive book written about the migration of Jews to America. This book is a fascinating read about their journey, their way of life, their early settlements and the challenges they faced. A migration is a very complex and emotional journey. Everything changes when you decide to move and settle down in a faraway land. The most important question one faces is that of their social and religious identity. How do you hold on to your traditional values while trying to make a new life? This book covers these and many other fascinating aspects of the Jewish migration to America.

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Gaganyaan Mission - Vishesh - RSTV IAS UPSC

Gaganyaan Mission Archives TOPIC: General Studies 3: Awareness in the field of Space – Space Missions Indigenization of technology and developing new technology In News: Gaganyaan is the human space flight programme under which Indian astronauts will go into space by 2022.This will be done by using its own capabilities.  A GSLV-Mk III launch vehicle will lift them to their orbit, which has the necessary payload capability to launch a three-member crew module in low earth orbit. If successful, India would become the fourth nation to conduct a human space flight programme after USSR/Russia, USA and China. It is a ₹10,000-crore Indian human space flight scheduled for 2022.  India has signed agreements with Russia and France for cooperation on the Gaganyaan mission. DRDO signed MoUs with ISRO to offer technologies for the mission, including space food, survival kits for crew, radiation protection equipment and parachutes. [caption id="attachment_55865" align="aligncenter" width="545"] Gaganyaan Mission - Ayushman Bhav - RSTV IAS UPSC[/caption] SRC: The Hindu Challenges: A manned space mission is very different from all other missions that ISRO has so far completed. In terms of complexity and ambition, even the missions to the Moon (Chandrayaan) and Mars (Mangalyaan) are nowhere in comparison. For a manned mission, the key distinguishing capabilities that ISRO has had to develop - The ability to bring the spacecraft back to Earth after flight To build a spacecraft in which astronauts can live in Earth-like conditions in space. The rocket: GSLV Mk-III The spacecraft carrying human beings, called crew module, is likely to weigh in excess of 5 to 6 tonnes. ISRO’s main launch vehicle, the PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle), which carried the Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan missions too, can carry payloads that are barely up to 2 tonnes, and that too only to orbits at about 600 km altitude from the Earth’s surface. That is why the development of GSLV Mk-III, a launch vehicle with capabilities to deliver much heavier payloads much deeper into space, was necessary. After three decades of efforts, mainly concentrated at developing an indigenous cryogenic engine to power the rocket, ISRO successfully tested GSLV Mk-III, now called LVM-3 (Launch Vehicle Mark-3), in an experimental flight in December 2014. June 2017: ISRO successfully launched the first “developmental” flight of LVM-3, which carried the GSAT-19 satellite into space. The LVM-3 is the declared launch vehicle for taking the manned crew module into space.  A. Re-entry & recovery tech The satellites launched by ISRO including Chandrayaan and Mangalyaan, normally meant to remain in space, even when their life is over. Any manned spacecraft, however, needs to come back. This involves mastering of the highly complicated and dangerous re-entry and recovery ability. While re-entering Earth’s atmosphere, the spacecraft needs to withstand very high temperatures, which is created due to friction. Also, the spacecraft needs to renter the atmosphere at a very precise speed and angle, and even the slightest deviation could end in disaster. The first successful experimental flight of GSLV Mk-III on December 18, 2014, also involved the successful testing of an experimental crew module that came back to Earth after being taken to an altitude of 126 km into space. The Crew module Atmospheric Re-entry Experiment (CARE) spacecraft re-entered the atmosphere at about 80 km altitude and landed in the sea near the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. B. Crew Escape System This is a crucial safety technology, involving an emergency escape mechanism for the astronauts in case of a faulty launch.The mechanism ensures the crew module gets an advance warning of anything going wrong with the rocket, and pulls it away to a safe distance, after which it can be landed either on sea or on land with the help of attached parachutes. Recently, ISRO completed the first successful flight of the crew escape system. A simulated crew module weighing about 3.5 tonnes was launched from Sriharikota. C. Life support The Environmental Control & Life Support System (ECLSS) is meant to ensure that conditions inside the crew module are suitable for humans to live comfortably.  The inside of the crew module is a twin-walled sealed structure that will recreate Earth-like conditions for the astronauts. The ECLSS maintains a steady cabin pressure and air composition, removes carbon dioxide and other harmful gases, controls temperature and humidity, and manages parameters like fire detection and suppression, food and water management, and emergency support. While the design and configuration of the ECLSS and the inside of the crew module has been finalised, other components and systems are in the process of being tested. Ground testing will have to be followed by tests in the space orbit while simulating zero gravity and deep vacuum. D. Space Communication The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced that it aims to launch its own satellite pair for space communication purposes, called Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS). It will be pivotal in helping  ISRO's ground control room to uniformly monitor the space crew and communicate with them at any given point of time, and can be used in both low orbit missions and farther missions such as those to the moon, Mars and beyond. Conclusion: These developments will help ISRO in perfecting the cryogenic technology for sending up heavier and heavier payloads and will reduce India’s dependency on other countries to launch heavier satellites. Connecting the dots: What advantages would India’s proposed manned mission to space bring to the society? Highlight the achievements of ISRO in the area of indigenisation of technology. 

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