Posts

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 9th January 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 9th January 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) NASA reported the discovery of an Earth-size planet Part of: GS Prelims – National Income and GS-III- Science & Technology In News NASA reported the discovery of an Earth-size planet, named TOI 700 d  Found by NASA’s Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) mission Do you know? Life on Earth started in water, and water is a necessary ingredient for life When scientists search for the possibility of alien life, any rocky exoplanet in the habitable zone of its star is an exciting find. Value addition for Prelims Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) mission Space telescope for NASA's Explorers program,  Designed to search for exoplanet Goldilocks zone: Also called as  the habitable zone It is the range of orbits around a star within which a planetary surface can support liquid water given sufficient atmospheric pressure Exoplanet : Also Extrasolar planet is a planet outside the Solar System. least massive planet known is Draugr HR 2562 b is the most massive planet known Foreign direct investment (FDI): Ordinance enabling FDI in coal mining Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Economy In News The decision was taken to boost domestic production of Coal to one billion tonnes by 2023-24 as it leads to cheaper inputs and increase in competitiveness About Ordinance:  Ordinances are laws that are promulgated by the President of India on the recommendation of the Union Cabinet, which will have the same effect as an Act of Parliament.  They can only be issued when Parliament is not in session.  They enable the Indian government to take immediate legislative action Foreign direct investment (FDI) Investment from a party in one country into a business or corporation in another country  Foreign direct investment can be made by expanding one’s business into a foreign country or by becoming the owner of a company in another country. North East Natural Gas Pipeline Grid: CCEA approves Viability gap funding Part of: GS Prelims- Geography and GS-III- Economy,GS-I- Geography In News The 1,656-km pipeline will connect Guwahati in Assam to major cities in the region such as Itanagar, Dimapur, Kohima, Imphal, Aizawl and Agartala covering all eight states in North-Eastern region The project is critical towards implementing the government's Hydrocarbon Vision 2030 for the North-East Implementation Agency: Indradhanush Gas Grid Limited (IGGL)- a joint venture company of five CPSEs (IOCL, ONGC, GAIL, OIL and NRL)  Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement signed between India and France Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II- International Affairs In News The Agreement was signed in March, 2018 during the State Visit of the French President to India. Validity of Agreement: seven years. It incorporates provision for automatic renewal and a monitoring mechanism through a Joint Working Group. Significance: It is 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.  Amma Vodi' scheme Part of: GS Prelims- Government Schemes and GS-II- Governance, Education In News Under the scheme, a financial assistance of ₹15,000 will be given (directly deposited into bank account) to nearly 43 lakh mothers or guardians who send their children to school (government, private aided, private unaided schools/junior colleges)  Orphans and street children studying in schools through voluntary organisations have also been covered under the scheme and the money will be given to the organisations. Only for the deserving sections: School and college dropouts are not eligible for this scheme and neither are government employees and income-tax payers. Impact of the Scheme: Student enrolment has already increased by 30% in the current academic year after the announcement of the scheme. MAINS FOCUS) Indian Polity Federalism TOPIC:General Studies 2: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure. Naga Peace Process: Stuck due to inflexibility of NSCN(I-M) Context: The government announced ‘Christmas Gift’ deadline for concluding talks with Naga groups has passed without any concrete results on the progress made since government Framework Agreement with NSCN(I-M) in 2015 Origin of the Issue and the timeline of the events The assertion of Naga Nationalism began during Colonial period and continued in Independent India. Below is the pictorial representation of the timeline Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 9th January 2020 What are the key demands of the Naga groups?  Greater Nagalim (sovereign statehood) i.e redrawing of boundaries to bring all Naga-inhabited areas in the Northeast under one administrative umbrella. It includes various parts of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Assam and Myanmar as well. Naga Yezabo (Naga Constitution)  Naga national flag. What was the Ceasefire Agreement which was signed in 2015? The Government of India recognised the unique history, culture and position of the Nagas and their sentiments and aspirations. The NSCN(Isak-Muivah) also appreciated the Indian political system and governance. Significance: It shows the governments strong intent to resolve the long standing issue and adoption of diplomatic peaceful approach by Naga Society to fulfil their aspirations. Reasons for not accepting Naga Demand of Separate Flag & Separate Constitution Regressive: Yezhabo is far less liberal than what Indian Constitution presently offers for Naga people. It is regressive and some of its provisions are against modern Constitutional values of liberty, equality & rule of law Challenges of Wider Acceptance: Yezhabo also proposes Naga leader Muivah as the over-arching figure of Naga politics, development and destiny which will not be acceptable to Naga Citizenry which are spread in adjoining states of Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Assam Sets a Bad Precedent: Acceding to the demand of Separate Flag will set a dangerous precedent whereby other states also demand similar provisions Identity Politics: Acceding to these demands is akin to giving racial and ethnic identity an equal footing with National Identity which will act as catalyst to Identity Politics in rest of India. Weakens National Integrity: The overall National Consciousness and National integration process will be weakened. Failure of Article 370: Working of Article 370 which had provided for separate Flag and Constitution has shown that such type of measures has not yielded results but has instead widened the gap between regional society and Indian mainstream. Why the agreement has not been finalised yet? It was signed only with NSCN (I-M) which in uneasy ceasefire since 1997. The agreement excluded half a dozen more groups, besides Naga citizenry. This has weakened the process Inflexibility by NSCN(I-M) over the contentious issue of Naga Flag and Naga constitution—Yezhabo. Muivah who is now 85 has decided he cannot die leaving a legacy of surrender Union government’s and the North-East’s political energy has been considerably spent on allaying the fears over CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) and the proposed NRC (National Register of Citizens) thus diluting the focus on Naga peace talks Steps taken by government over last 2-3 years to fast track the process of finalising the agreement Talks with I-M has clearly spelt out disarmament, rehabilitation and assimilation of cadres and leaders through induction in paramilitary forces and political structures (expanded legislature in Nagaland)- thus ensuring smooth integration into Indian political system Legislative and administrative autonomy for Naga regions outside Nagaland has been a part of talks with the Naga leadership A breakaway faction of I-M’s arch enemies, NSCN’s Khaplang, joined the peace process with government in 2019 Government-led outreach programs to bring on board non-Naga people in Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, and Assam, promising much development as a trade-off for offering Naga people in these states more legislative representation and administrative autonomy The State government that has decided to prepare the Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN) but later due to pressure from various fractions, the decision has now been put on hold. Way Ahead The government will whittle away at I-M’s political, administrative and military structure and strive to reduce I-M’s heft along with Muivah’s and also stoke other lines of leadership.  Reaching a consensus with broader Naga Citizenry and also convincing the non-Naga people in adjoining states of Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur & Assam is necessary to ensure sustainable workable agreement. Connecting the dots: What would be the consequence if Naga peace deal is not signed at the earliest in the backdrop of growing tensions over CAA-NRC in North east? Impact of acceding to demand of Nagalim on other States in North East. Indian Polity Federalism TOPIC:General Studies 2: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure.
 Indian Constitution - Unitary tilt & Future Federal Challenges Context: Kerala Legislative Assembly passing a resolution stating that Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) passed by Parliament contradicts the basic values and principles of the Constitution. West Bengal Government had put anti-CAA advertisements on its websites using public funds which was later withdrawn on order of High court. Several States have declared that they will not participate in NPR (National Population Register) exercise which will be used as basis for NRC (National Register of Citizens) In this background where Centre and States are on conflicting stands it becomes important to analyse the Constitutional features of Federalism.  The below pictorial representation explains the plausible reason for the emergence such type of opposition by States Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 9th January 2020 Some of the features of Federalism in India: Division of Powers: Presence of Union List, State list and Concurrent list Written Constitution Supremacy of the Constitution Rigidity of the Constitution Independent Judiciary Bicameralism However, there are various other features that makes the Constitution tilted towards Centre (Unitary bias) Single Constitution Single Citizenship Integrated Judiciary Flexibility of the Constitution under Article 368 Appointment of State Governors by the State All India Services – Controlled by Centre but deputed in State administrative set up Emergency Provisions No equality of State representation in Rajya Sabha Parliament’s authority over State List Veto Over State Bills Article 256 of the Constitution obligates the State government to ensure implementation of the laws made by Parliament. If the State government fails to do so, the Government of India is empowered to give “such directions to a State as may appear... to be necessary” even resulting in dismissal of the State government and imposition of Presidents Rule under Article 356 & 365. Why was the Constitution structured with Unitary Bias? The Indian Constitution is not based on American Model but based on Canadian Model. The reason why India adopted Canadian model was because: The way federal governments are formed is by way of disintegration and not by the way of agreement amongst the states coming together like in American Federation The States have no right to secede from the federation. Giving this right would have further strengthened the “fissiparous tendencies” in newly born Nation which was reeling under the aftereffects of Partition. Thus to avoid such secession tendencies a Strong centre was created. Working of Federalism However, Indian working of Constitution has shown that Federalism is not just limited to legal space where there is division of Power between Centre & State governments but Federalism has peculated into Public participation in Democratic process. Federalism has been reflected in people’s voting behaviour. There are examples of huge vote swings between national and State elections, separated by only a few months, in the same constituencies. This indicates that people make distinction between regional concerns and National concerns. As shown in the diagram above, the emergence of Single Party Dominance system since 2014 along with vacating of Opposition Space (partly due to decline in Parliament) has allowed regional & State governments to occupy this space.  This opposition by State governments now poses a threat to Federalism and questions the bias provided for in the original Constitution especially when India is integrated now more than ever (declining fissiparous tendencies) Decline of Parliament involves Using disruption as a tactic to oppose legislative discussions and stall executives agenda Misuse of Office of Speaker to push forward ruling party’s agenda without meaningful debates (ex: Certifying bills as Money bill so as to avoid scrutiny by Rajya Sabha) Tyranny of Political Parties: The presence of Tenth Schedule prohibits legislators to freely air their opinion. Instead they are supposed to follow their Party’s dictates thus prioritising Political Party’s interest over and above the Public interest Criminalization of Politics: 43% of the 17th Lok Sabha members (2019 general elections) have criminal charges against them according to Association of Democratic reforms Less number of time spent on legislative deliberations: In fact, in the last 10 years, the lower House has met for an average of 70 days a year. Lack of Leader of Opposition since 16th Lok Sabha: With no political party gaining 10% of the strength of the Lower House, the position has remained vacant. This has effectively weakened the opposition voice in various platforms & committees which hold government accountable But All is not Gloomy, this is because  There is thrust by the Central government on Cooperative & Competitive Federalism, in spite of having majority in Lok Sabha Political and Administrative leadership realizes that there has to be decentralization where States will act as engines of growth and Centre will act as facilitator of growth. The 42% devolution of funds from Central pool of taxes to State is a reflection of this sentiment The example of GST Council clearly shows that Constitution provides an outlet for Sates to engage collaboratively with Centre so as to get its concerns addressed. Federalism is a Basic Structure of Constitution: Examples of Indian Judiciary reversing some of the Central government’s decisions like the imposition of  Article 356, reversing President’s or Speaker’s decision (Arunachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Karnataka) shows that Federalism will be an integral of our system. Connecting the dots Will the emergence of single party system good or bad for Democracy and economic development? Is opposition necessary in a Democratic Polity especially it when it creates obstacles in economic development weakening Indian hand to deal with China. (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) The term 'Goldilocks Zone' is often seen in the news in the context of  (UPSC 2015) (a) the limits of habitable zone above the surface of the Earth (b) regions inside the Earth where shale gas is available (c) search for the Earth-like planets in outer space (d) search for meteorites containing precious metals  Q2) Which of the following is/are the possible consequence/s of heavy sand mining in riverbeds? Decreased salinity in the river Pollution of groundwater Lowering of the water-table Select the correct answer using the code given below : (a) 1 only  (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only  (d) 1 ,2 and 3 Q3)Match List-I with List-II and select the correct answer using the codes given below the lists:  List-I (Minerals)                        List-II (Mining area) Graphite                                    1. Bellary Lead                                       2. Didwana Salt                                         3. Rampa Silver                                      4. Zawar Select the correct answer using the code given below : (a) A-3; B -4; C-1; D-2      (b) A-1; B -4; C-2; D-3 (c) A-3; B-1; C-4; D-2          (d) A-2; B-3; C-1; D-4 Q4) Ecological research over the last quarter of the century has established the deleterious effects of habitat fragmentation due to mining, highways and such other intrusions on forests. When a large block of forests gets fragmented into smaller bits, the edges of all these bits come into contact with human activities resulting in the degradation of the entire forests. Continuity of forested landscapes and corridors gets disrupted affecting several extinction-prone species of wildlife. Habitat fragmentation is therefore considered as the most serious threat to biodiversity conservation. Ad hoc grants of forest lands to mining companies coupled with rampant illegal mining is aggravating this threat.  What is the central focus of this passage? (a) Illegal mining in forests (b) Extinction of wildlife (c) Conservation of nature (d) Disruption of habitat Q5) What is the purpose of maintaining the continuity of forested landscapes and corridors? Preservation of biodiversity. Management of mineral resources. Grant of forest lands for human activities. Select the correct answer using the codes given below. (a) 1 only  (b) 1 and 2 (c) 2 and 3  (d) 1, 2 and 3 ANSWERS FOR 08 JAN 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK)  1 B 2 C 3 D 4 B 5 D 6 A 7 A MUST READ About the growing public protests across the world The Hindu Impact of increased importance given to religious identity The Hindu Need for National Defence University The Hindu Impact of divisiness on Intellectual progress of a society IE

RSTV Video

Haemorrhoids/Piles - Ayushman Bhav - RSTV IAS UPSC

Haemorrhoids/Piles - Ayushman Bhav - RSTV IAS UPSC Archives What is ‘piles’? Piles is another term for haemorrhoids. Haemorrhoids are collections of inflamed tissue in the anal canal. They contain blood vessels, support tissue, muscle, and elastic fibers. The size of piles can vary, and they are found inside or outside the anus. Piles occur due to chronic constipation, chronic diarrhea, lifting heavy weights, pregnancy, or straining when passing a stool. Hemorrhoids are graded on a scale from I to IV. At grades III or IV, surgery may be necessary. An individual with piles may experience the following symptoms: A hard, possibly painful lump may be felt around the anus. It may contain coagulated blood. Piles that contain blood are called thrombosed external haemorrhoids. After passing a stool, a person with piles may experience the feeling that the bowels are still full. Bright red blood is visible after a bowel movement. The area around the anus is itchy, red, and sore. Pain occurs during the passing of a stool. Piles can escalate into a more severe condition. This can include: Excessive anal bleeding, also possibly leading to anaemia Infection Faecal incontinence, or an inability to control bowel movements Anal fistula, in which a new channel is created between the surface of the skin near the anus and the inside of the anus A strangulated haemorrhoid, in which the blood supply to the haemorrhoid is cut off, causing complications including infection or a blood clot Classification: Grade I: There are small inflammations, usually inside the lining of the anus. They are not visible. Grade II: Grade II piles are larger than grade I piles, but also remain inside the anus. They may get pushed out during the passing of stool, but they will return unaided. Grade III: These are also known as prolapsed hemorrhoids, and appear outside the anus. The individual may feel them hanging from the rectum, but they can be easily re-inserted. Grade IV: These cannot be pushed back in and need treatment. They are large and remain outside of the anus. [caption id="attachment_55812" align="aligncenter" width="502"] Haemorrhoids/Piles - Ayushman Bhav - RSTV IAS UPSC[/caption] Source: Click here  Causes Bawaseer-e- aamiya (Non Bleeding Piles/ Non Bleeding Haemorrhoids) are caused by increased pressure in the lower rectum. The blood vessels around the anus and in the rectum will stretch under pressure and may swell or bulge, forming piles. Sitting for long periods of time, especially on the toilet seat Straining during bowel movements or defaecation Being overweight or obese Chronic (long lasting) constipation or diarrhoea Anal intercourse Regular use of low-fibre diet Pregnancy Poor posture Spinal cord injury The tendency to develop piles may also be inherited and increases with age. Treatment Without surgery Rubber band ligation: a band is placed around your piles to make them drop off Sclerotherapy: a liquid is injected into your piles to make them shrink Electrotherapy: a gentle electric current is applied to your piles to make them shrink Infrared coagulation: an infrared light is used to cut the blood supply to your piles to make them shrink Surgical treatments include: Haemorrhoidectomy: your piles are cut out Stapled haemorrhoidopexy: your piles are stapled back inside your anus Haemorrhoidal artery ligation: stitches are used to cut the blood supply to your piles to make them shrink  

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 8th January 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 8th January 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) GDP growth rate for 2019-20 expected to be 5% (previous fiscal 6.8%) Part of: GS Prelims – National Income and GS-III- Economy  In News GDP decline in 2019-20 s attributed to slowdown in Manufacturing (2%) and Construction sector (3.2%) Gross Domestic product(GDP) is the total monetary or market value of all the finished goods and services produced within a country's borders in a specific time period. Gross value Addition (GVA) is the sum of a country’s GDP and net of subsidies and taxes in the economy (​GVA=GDP+ Subsidies on Products−Taxes on Products) GVA gives a picture of the state of economy from the producers’ side or supply side, the GDP gives the picture from the consumers’ side or demand perspective Genome of Indian Cobra mapped Part of: GS Prelims- Government Schemes and GS Mains III-Science & Technology In News Researchers have mapped the genome of cobra which will help in understanding the chemical constituents of the snake venom and contribute to development of new anti-venom therapies. What is Gene? Gene is part of chromosome, a unit of heredity which is transferred from a parent to offspring and is held to determine some characteristic of the offspring. A genome is an organism’s complete set of DNA, including all of its genes Value addition for Prelims Genome India Initiative is a project by Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Ministry of Science and Technology that involves scanning of 20,000 Indian individual’s genomes (in the next five years 2019-24) Objective: To develop diagnostic tests and effective therapies for treating diseases (such as cancer) GOCO model: Government Owned Contractor Operated Model Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains –III- Security, Investment Models In News In order to improve operational efficiency, Indian army is looking to implement the Government Owned Contractor Operated (GOCO) model for its maintenance of its Army Base workshops The GOCO model was one of the recommendations of the Lt. Gen. DB Shekatkar committee to enhance combat capability and re-balance defence expenditure. Infant Mortality Rate: Outrage over deaths of infants in Gujarat & Rajasthan Part of: GS Prelims – Health Statistics and GS-II- Health In News The Infant mortality rate (IMR) is the number of deaths per 1,000live births of children under one year of age. Currently (2017) India’s IMR stands at 33 per 1,000 live births India has an annual birth cohort of approximately 26 million Every day, there is an estimated death of 2,350 babies aged less than one year(annually 8.5 lakh deaths) According to the National Family Health Survey-4, only 78.9% births in India happen in a facility. This means 21.1% or about 54 lakh births in a year still happen outside of a facility where hygiene levels are low and/or without the help of a trained health worker. Value Additions 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 10% reservation Quota for Economically Weaker Sections Part of: GS Prelims – Articles of Constitution and GS II- Governance In News Centre has held that it is States’ prerogative to provide 10% economic reservation in government jobs and admission to education institutions. Do You Know? It was 103rd Constitutional Amendment Act that introduced provide 10 per cent reservation in government jobs and education (except in minority educational institutions) to economically backward section in the general category The act inserted Articles 15(6) and 16(6) of the Constitution that provided for these reservations. Article 46 of the Constitution (DPSP) enjoins that the State shall promote with special care the educational and economic interests of the weaker sections of the people. National Pension System (NPS) Part of: GS Prelims – Government Initiatives and GS-III- Economy In News 7,000 corporates in the country are currently registered with PFRDA, but only 10 lakh employees from this corporate sector are covered under the NPS. NPS currently has a total subscriber base of 3.25 crore, (with ₹4 lakh crore under investment as on December 31) About NPS National Pension System (NPS) is a government-sponsored pension scheme launched in January 2004 for government employees. However, in 2009, it was opened to all sections. Implementation Agency: NPS is being implemented and regulated by PFRDA(Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority) – a statutory body established by PFRDA Act, 2013 Who can join NPS? Any Indian citizen (Both Resident and Non-Resident) between 18 and 60 years can join NPS. The only condition is that the person must comply with know your customer (KYC) norms. However, OCI (Overseas Citizens of India) and PIO (Person of Indian Origin) card holders and Hindu Undivided Family (HUFs) are not eligible for opening of NPS account. Snow and Avalanche Study Establishment (SASE) Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I- Geography, Climatology In News SASE which is a laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has issued an Avalanche warning to Leh in Ladakh region. SASE’s objective: To be a centre of excellence in ‘Cryospheric Science and Technology’ to facilitate high operational mobility for troops in snow bound regions of Indian Himalayas. HQ of SASE is located near Manali, Himachal Pradesh. The cryosphereis the frozen water part of the Earth system. Thus it includes those portions of Earth's surface where water is in solid form, including sea ice, lake ice, river ice, snow cover, glaciers, ice caps, ice sheets, and frozen ground. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2: Indian Democracy and related issues Governance issues Indian Polity  Concept of Democracy, then and now Introduction: We are all familiar with the idea that democracy is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people. Today, the most common form of democracy is representative democracy, in which citizens elect officials to make political decisions, formulate laws, and administer programmes for the public good. Different definitions of Democracy – “Democracy is a government of the people, for the people, and by the people.” - Abraham Lincoln “Democracy really means nothing more or less than the rule of the whole people, expressing their sovereign will by their votes.” - Bryce “Democracy is not a way of governing, whether by majority or otherwise, but primarily a way of determining, who shall govern, and broadly to what ends.” - Maclver Idea of Democracy during British India and Post-independence Mahatma Gandhi on Democracy “Democracy must mean the art of science of mobilizing the entire physical, economic and spiritual resources of all the various sections of people in the service of the common good for all.” “To safeguard democracy the people must have a keen sense of independence, self-respect and their oneness, and should insist upon choosing as their representatives only such persons as are good and true.” Gandhian concept of Self Rule means Swaraj is real democracy, where people's power rests in the individuals and each one realizes that he or she is the real master of one's self. Nehru on Democracy “Democracy, if it means anything, means equality; not merely the equality of possessing a vote but economic and social equality.” Karachi resolution In 1931, the resolution at the Karachi session reflected the vision of democracy that meant not just formal holding of elections but a substantive reworking of the Indian social structure in order to have a genuine democratic society. The framers of the Indian Constitution were inspired by principles of social equality and political justice to introduce adult suffrage immediately–a big step forward to protect our Indian Democracy. After independence, India decided to have democratic political sys­tem. This system is characterised by three elements: one, there is a high degree of autonomy; two, economic agents and religious organisations are free from political interference; and three, competition between various orders does not endanger integration but helps it. The first generation of Indian leaders wanted their country to be a liberal democracy, in which a person’s faith—or language, or caste, or gender—didn’t earn her better or worse treatment by the state. Positive aspects of Democracy Positively, democracy seeks to maintain and assert the below rights: the right to free expression of opinion and of opposition and criticism of the Government of the day; the right to change the Governments of which the people disapprove through constitutional means; protection from arbitrary interference on the part of the authorities, primary safeguards against arbitrary arrest and prosecution; fundamental rights of citizens, subject to their duties to the state; the right of minorities to be protected with equal justice under law; equal treatment and fair play for the poor as well as the rich, for private persons as well as Government officials; The right to hold unpopular or dissident beliefs. Modern day democracy on decline Since independence, India has managed to stay on the democratic path in a way unprecedented among states freed from colonialism during the last century. The makers of our Constitution designed the institutions of our democracy with great care and attention to detail. They were designed to endure and it was expected that these institutions will strengthen the democracy in India. Recently, however, the dominance of the Hindu nationalists and the manner in which they have ruled – has given rise to claims that India’s democracy and its minorities are in grave danger. Freedom of expression has been curtailed; institutions of democracy are weakened and diminished; democratic deliberation has been bypassed; attacks on religious minorities have been carried out. At a time when politics almost everywhere is leaning dangerously towards a centralised, authoritarian, national security state with a strong leader committed to the ideology of cultural nationalism, the values and ideas of democracy provided by early leaders becomes important. The values and democratic principles embraced by them are relevant not yesterday or today but forever!! Connecting the dots: Examine the democratic principles that took a concrete shape post British India rule. Is the future of Indian democracy secure? Critically analyze. (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) Bandar Abbas, the Iranian port city is located on the Strait of Hormuz. This strait connects which two water bodies? Persian Gulf and Gulf of Aden Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman Red Sea and Gulf of Aden Red Sea and Gulf of Oman Q.2) Cryosphere often seen in the news is related to which of the following? Inner core part of earth system consisting of radioactive materials Outer atmospheric part of earth system Frozen water part of the earth system None of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements about National Pension system(NPS) It is being implemented by Ministry of Labour Non-Resident India(NRI), OCI (Overseas Citizens of India) and PIO (Person of Indian Origin) card holders and Hindu Undivided Family (HUFs) are eligible for opening of NPS account 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 Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) It is a Statutory body established under Companies Act, 2013. It regulates National Pension System (NPS) and other pension schemes subscribed by employees of public and private sector of India. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Article 46 of the Constitution deals with which of the following? Freedom of Speech Martial Law Uniform Civil Code None of the above Q.6) Shekatkar committee often seen in the news deals with which of the following? Military Modernisation Financial Inclusion Doubling of Farmers Income Improving relations with Pakistan Q.7) Consider the following statements about GDP and Gross value Addition (GVA) GVA is the sum of a country’s GDP and net of subsidies and taxes in the economy GDP gives a picture of the state of economy from the producers’ side or supply side, whereas GVA gives the picture from the consumers’ side or demand perspective Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 07 JAN 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 C 3 C 4 C MUST READ There is a design flaw with this military post The Hindu Amidst a tragedy, an opportunity The Hindu  The road to radicalisation The Hindu Friendship and Progress  IE Less Work, More Play IE Lack of innovation, no credible response: Reasons why socialism failed FE Universal declaration of digital rights for life-liberty-and-security in the digital realm FE

RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – China vs Taiwan

China vs Taiwan Archives TOPIC: General studies 2 India and the World International Relations Policies of developed and developing countries and their impact on India’s interests In news: Taiwan has rejected the Chinese formula of one country two systems.  In her New Year speech Taiwanese President vowed to defend the island nation's sovereignty saying the Hong Kong model would not work for Taiwan as democracy and authoritarianism cannot co-exist in the same country.  China claims Taiwan as its territory and wants to bring it under Beijing's control even if it requires the use of force.  The anti-Infiltration bill passed by Taiwanese Parliament recently has further sent the relations between the two to a new low. Background Taiwan, officially known as the Republic of China (ROC), is an island off the southern coast of China that has been governed independently from mainland China since 1949. The People’s Republic of China (PRC) views the island as a province, while in Taiwan—a territory with its own democratically elected government that is home to twenty-three million people—political leaders have differing views on the island’s status and relations with the mainland. The PRC asserts that there is only “one China” and that Taiwan is an inalienable part of it. Beijing says Taiwan is bound by an understanding reached in 1992 between representatives of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) and the Kuomintang (KMT) political party then ruling Taiwan. Referred to as the 1992 Consensus, it states that there is only “one China” but allows for differing interpretations, by which both Beijing and Taipei agree that Taiwan belongs to China, while the two still disagree on which entity is China’s legitimate governing body. The tacit agreement underlying the 1992 Consensus is that Taiwan will not seek independence. In Taiwan, the Chinese government’s objective has long been what it calls “peaceful reunification” — “reunification” even though Taiwan has never been under the jurisdiction or control of the People’s Republic of China or the Chinese Communist Party. To achieve that goal, Beijing has for years tried to simultaneously coax and coerce Taiwan’s adhesion with both the promise of economic benefits and military threats.  A historic task:  Early this year, President Xi Jinping of China reiterated that “complete reunification” was a “historic task.” “We make no promise to renounce the use of force and reserve the option of taking all necessary means,” he added. Taiwan is gearing up for a presidential election in January. On Nov. 17, Ms. Tsai announced that the pro-independence William Lai Ching-te, a former prime minister, would be her running mate. On the same day, China sent an aircraft carrier through the Taiwan Strait. (In July, China had released its defense white paper, and it stated, “By sailing ships and flying aircraft around Taiwan, the armed forces send a stern warning to the ‘Taiwan independence’ separatist forces.”)  A political task:  It is also trying to undermine Taiwan’s democratic process itself and sow social divisions on the island.  Plus, only about one in 10 Taiwanese people support unification with China. The Sunflower Movement of 2014, a series of protests led by a coalition of students and civil-society activists, marked the rejection of close relations with China by Taiwan’s younger generations. An economic task:  The Chinese authorities also seemed to think that increasing economic interdependence across the Taiwan Strait would be a pathway to unification. At some point, the theory went, it would be too costly for Taiwan to unravel economic links. Trade between China and Taiwan exceeded $181 billion in 2017, up from about $35.5 billion in 1999. But even as the two economies grew closer, the number of people who identified as Taiwanese increased: from more than 48 percent to about 60 percent between 2008 and late 2015. Current moves –  China will persist in pulling its military and economic levers. It will continue to manipulate news coverage to try to buoy Beijing-friendly candidates in the upcoming election. But now it is also launching a disinformation campaign to sap Taiwanese’s trust in their institutions and sow discontent among them. China has also made no secret of its intention to exacerbate social rifts in Taiwan. The Chinese government believes it can pit various ethnic, political and social groups in Taiwan against one another. China can also be expected to exploit the soft underbelly of Taiwanese politics: patronage networks. Those are less important today than during Taiwan’s authoritarian days, but they continue to allow community leaders, farmers’ associations and even organized-crime figures to buy votes. Social media platforms are another key battleground: Nearly 90 percent of Taiwan’s population is active on them, and traditional news outlets have been known to republish fake posts without fact-checking. According to Reuters, Chinese government agencies have paid Taiwanese news outlets to publish pro-Beijing content. Must read: Putting Taiwan on India’s diplomatic priority Connecting the Dots: Democracy and authoritarianism cannot co-exist in the same country. Critically examine.

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 7th January 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 7th January 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) UJALA: Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II- Governance In News UJALA and Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP) of the central government has completed five successful years on January 5, 2020. Through the UJALA initiative, over 36.13 crore LED bulbs have been distributed across India. This has resulted in estimated energy savings of 46.92 billion kWh per year and an estimated GHG emission reduction of 38 million t CO2 annually.  Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP) is the world’s largest streetlight replacement programme. Nearly 1.03 crore smart LED streetlights have been installed till date, enabling an estimated energy savings of 6.97 billion kWh per year Both have been spearheaded and implemented by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a joint venture of PSUs under the Ministry of Power, Government of India. JUS COGENS Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II- Indian Polity, International affairs In News JUS COGENS meaning “compelling law” in Latin, are rules in international law that are peremptory or authoritative, and from which states cannot deviate These norms cannot be offset by a separate treaty between parties intending to do so, since they hold fundamental values. Today, most states and international organisations accept the principle of jus cogens, which dates back to Roman times. So far, an exhaustive list of jus cogens rules does not exist. However, the prohibition of slavery, genocide, racial discrimination, torture, and the right to self-determination are recognised norms. Great Indian Bustard Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains –III- Environment Conservation In News The Great Indian Bustard (GIB), is one of the heaviest flying birds, and is found mainly in the Indian subcontinent. Barely 150 of these birds are estimated to be surviving now globally Today, its population is confined mostly to Rajasthan and Gujarat. Small population also occur in Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. Along with chick-rearing centre for GIB in Jaisalmer, Sorsan in Rajasthan has been identified as the most conducive site for their rearing, due to availability of grasslands, access to roads and well suited climatic conditions Vanishing grasslands, uncontrolled use of pesticides and insecticides in farms which has impacted their food habitat, attacks by dogs & foxes, poaching and presence of high voltage power lines are a major threat to the GIB Conservation status: Listed in Schedule I of the Indian Wildlife (Protection)Act, 1972, Listed in Appendix I of CITES Listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List Gurudwara Nankana Sahib in Pakistan Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I- History In News Gurdwara Janam Asthan (also called Nankana Sahib Gurdwara) is built over the site where Guru Nanak, the founder of Sikhism, was believed to be born in 1469 The Janam Asthan shrine was constructed by Maharaja Ranjit Singh, after he visited Nankana Sahib in 1818-19 while returning from the Battle of Multan. During British rule, the Gurdwara Janam Asthan was the site of a violent episode when in 1921, over 130 Akali Sikhs were killed after they were attacked by the Mahant of the shrine.  The incident is regarded as one of the key milestones in the Gurdwara Reform Movement, which led to the passing of the Sikh Gurdwara Act in 1925 that ended the Mahant control of Gurdwaras. Farmers’ Innovation Fund: To be set up by ICAR Part of: GS Prelims and GS II- Governance In News The fund will be used to scientifically validate, scale up and propagate the innovations of progressive farmers The intention was to link farmers and farming with science and to ensure that their farm practices were science-based Innovations of farmers were already being documented by the Krishi Vigyan Kendras, however, the additional system would encourage farmers to continue their work.  About The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) It is an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India.  The Council is the apex body for co-ordinating, guiding and managing research and education in agriculture including horticulture, fisheries and animal sciences in the entire country.  With 101 ICAR institutes and 71 agricultural universities spread across the country this is one of the largest national agricultural systems in the world. Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS) Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Space Science & Technology In News India plans to bring in its own system of space-to-space tracking and communication of its space assets by putting up a new satellite series called IDRSS. It is basically a set of satellites that will track, send and receive information from other satellites. The two-satellite IDRSS is planned to track and be constantly in touch with Indian satellites, in particular those in low-earth orbits which have limited coverage of earth IDRSS satellites of the 2,000 kg class would be launched on the GSLV launcher to geostationary orbits around 36,000 km away The first beneficiary would be the prospective crew members of the Gaganyaan mission of 2022 who can be fully and continuously in touch with mission control throughout their travel. It will be useful in monitoring launches and vital for ISRO which has planned in future several advanced Low Earth Orbit (LEO) missions such as space docking, space station, as well as distant expeditions to moon, Mars and Venus Lysosomal Storage Disorders (LSD) Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II- Health In News The lysosomes are primary digestive units within cells. Their function is to break down complex components into simpler ones. They degrade complex components such as proteins (substrates) into simpler components When this process does not take place due to enzyme deficiency, the  toxic substrates begin to accumulate in the cells. That is why these diseases are called “storage diseases”.  Therefore, Lysosomal storage diseases are inherited metabolic diseases that are characterized by an abnormal build-up of various toxic materials in the body's cells as a result of enzyme deficiencies. Most lysosomal storage disorders are inherited in an autosomal recessive manner. There are nearly 50 of these disorders altogether, and they may affect different parts of the body, including the skeleton, brain, skin, heart, and central nervous system There is currently no approved treatment for many lysosomal storage diseases. (MAINS FOCUS) CYBER SECURITY TOPIC:General Studies 3: Awareness in the fields of IT, Space, Computers, robotics, nano-technology, bio-technology and issues relating to intellectual property rights. Challenges to internal security through communication networks Data privacy law : California’s new privacy law — the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) (Part-1)  Context: California’s new privacy law — the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) — is first-of-its-kind data legislation went into effect recently. Need : Data are increasingly commodified by technology conglomerates California’s new privacy law gives right to users: Users have the right to see what personal information businesses collect about them, and the purpose and process of the collection. Personal information refers to any information that can be linked back to the user. User can request and view what inferences the businesses make about them, User  have the right to see details about their personal information being sold or given to a third party. Users can make businesses delete their personal information, and opt out of having their data sold to third parties.  Users can get a copy of the collected personal information for free.  Parents have to give permission to companies before the companies can sell the data of their children under the age of 13 to third parties. Why Right to ask for deletion? The more a company knows about you, the more power it has to shape your daily life.  Such as showing you a shoe ad, to selecting your job, your housing, or helping to shape what candidate you support in an election. Exceptions: The law lays out some exceptions, such as information necessary for completing transactions, providing a service, protecting consumer security, and protecting freedom of speech. Affects of this law: Many firms are finding it easier to make the legal changes for all users rather than trying to distinguish users from California. Microsoft will roll out changes for all Americans, and Mozilla (which owns the Firefox browser) will make changes for all their users.  The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) too, shifted the entire Internet economy, not just that of the EU Criticisms: The Act gives users the right to stop the selling of their data, but not the collection of their data.  It does not do much to affect companies like Facebook and Google that make most of their money by collecting the data, not by selling it. Advertisers pay Facebook to target ads to users based off that data; they don’t pay Facebook for the data itself. The act places the burden of navigating this complex economy on users.  Many of the provisions are vaguely worded — leaving concepts such as “third-party sharing” or “selling” up to interpretation.  Conclusion: Users get right to access the data, the right to ask for its deletion, and the right to prevent its sale to third parties. Because of the global nature of the Internet, these changes will affect users worldwide. Connecting the dots: What are the challenges regarding data protection and how can they be addressed? Do you think Data protection is one of the key elements for a robust cyber policy? POLITY TOPIC:General Studies 2: India and its neighbourhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests Iran nuclear deal :  Iran has stepped away from the nuclear deal Context: Iran said it would abandon limitations on enriching uranium, refusing to adhere to the 2015 nuclear deal it signed with six major powers, but would continue to cooperate with the UN nuclear watchdog. Iran’s announcement comes after its top security and intelligence commander, Major General Qassem Soleimani, was killed in a US drone attack in Baghdad Timeline: Iran ratified the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) in 1970, and planned to expand its nuclear power. After the Islamic Revolution, these plans were discontinued, and in the late 1980s, Iran established an undeclared nuclear weapons program called the AMAD project.  In 2003, under international pressure, Iran halted the program, and signed an Additional Protocol to its NPT safeguards agreement, giving the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) greater powers in verifying the program. In 2006, the US, Russia and China joined Britain, France and Germany to form the P5+1 group of nations trying to persuade Iran to curb its nuclear program. In 2009, under President Barack Obama, the US conducted extensive one-on-one talks with Iran’s top nuclear negotiator. In 2013, Iran and the six powers announced an interim agreement that temporarily curbed Tehran’s nuclear program and unfreezed some Iranian assets, setting the stage for extended negotiations on a comprehensive nuclear accord. in 2015, the Iran nuclear deal (formally the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) was signed between Iran and the P5 (the five permanent members of the UN Security Council) plus Germany and the European Union. Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action or Nuclear deal: Under JCPOA, Iran agreed to eliminate its stockpile of medium-enriched uranium, cut its stockpile of low-enriched uranium by 98%, and reduce by about two-thirds the number of its gas centrifuges for 13 years.  For the next 15 years Iran will only enrich uranium up to 3.67%.  Iran also agreed not to build any new heavy-water facilities for the same period of time.  Uranium-enrichment activities will be limited to a single facility using first-generation centrifuges for 10 years.  Other facilities will be converted to avoid proliferation risks.  To monitor and verify Iran's compliance with the agreement, the International Atomic What will Iran get in return? Iran will receive relief from U.S., European Union, and United Nations Security Council nuclear-related sanctions. Reason behind the US decision to withdraw from Nuclear deal: Mr. Trump’s decision is not about Iran acquiring nuclear weapons. If it was the actual concern, it would have supported a deal that closes the path towards nuclear weapons for Iran. Instead, the bigger concern for Mr. Trump as well as Washington’s closest allies in West Asia — Israel and Saudi Arabia — is Iran’s re-accommodation in the global economic mainstream. They fear that if Iran’s economic profile rises, it will embolden it to increase its regional presence, posing a strategic threat to the interests of the U.S.-Saudi-Israel axis. How does it affect India? The reintroduction of sanctions against Iran is bad news. Iran is now India’s third largest source of oil.  Apart from supply disruptions, a further surge in crude prices will worsen India’s current account imbalance and fuel inflation, at a time when the economy is just beginning to show signs of returning to a high growth trajectory. For global corporations too, there will be considerable pain. For example, there are said to be around 200 French companies operating in Iran and some like Renault have plants there. They will now have a 90-day period to wind down operations.  India’s Chabahar port project in Iran, which was just showing signs of moving forward, could be in trouble. Conclusion: US-Iran ties have continued to worsen since President Donald Trump unilaterally withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal and imposed crippling sanctions on Iran. Relations between the two countries first became acrimonious during the 1979 Iranian Revolution, which brought Iran’s pro-West monarchy to an end, and replaced it with an Islamic Republic Connecting the dots:  How do you think this affects India? What do you think might be the solution ? (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 about UJALA Scheme The main objective is to promote efficient lighting, enhance awareness on using efficient equipment which reduce electricity bills and help preserve environment The scheme is being implemented by NITI Aayog in collaboration with State governments. Which of the above statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Great Indian Bustard It is the state bird of state of Rajasthan It is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about Indian Data Relay Satellite System (IDRSS) Without data relay satellites, ISRO would have to create a large number ground stations everywhere or hire them globally  IDRSS satellites are of the 2,000 kg class that would be launched on the GSLV launcher to geostationary orbits around 36,000 km away. 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 Indian Council for Agricultural Research (ICAR) It is an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Government of India.  It is the apex body for co-ordinating, guiding and managing research and education in agriculture including horticulture, fisheries and animal sciences in the entire country. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 06 JAN 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 B 3 C 4 A MUST READ The mask of anarchy: On JNU violence The Hindu Exit Iraq: On US-Iran tensions The Hindu The U.S. is weakened by Soleimani’s killing The Hindu A case for including Tulu in the Eighth Schedule The Hindu The mob violence on JNU students is a chronicle foretold. Those whose job is to protect the campus are accomplices IE In Australia’s bushfires lie warnings about the complex ways in which climate variables interact IE India's withdrawal from RCEP a breather on many fronts DTE Insurers withdraw from Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana as extreme weather events spike claim rates resulting in heavy losses DTE

PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 29th December to 5th January – 2020

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 29th December to 5th January – 2020 ARCHIVES GS-3 Year End Review: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Environment: Air pollution is one of the biggest global environmental challenges of today. A time bound national level strategy for pan India implementation to tackle the increasing air pollution problem across the country in a comprehensive manner in the form of National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) was launched on 10th January, 2019. Third Indo-German Environment Forum with the theme "Cleaner Air, Greener Economy:" held in New Delhi in February. The one-day event through panel discussions and parallel sessions focused on challenges, solutions and necessary framework conditions of air pollution control, waste management and circular economy as well as implementation of NDCs and SDGs based on Paris Agreement and Agenda 2030 of UN respectively. In a significant first, India piloted resolutions on two important global environment issues relating to Single-use Plastics and Sustainable Nitrogen management at the fourth session of United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) which was held in Nairobi from 11th to 15th March 2019.UNEA adopted both the resolutions with consensus. India Cooling Action Plan (ICAP) Launched in March this year. India is one of the first countries in the world to develop a comprehensive Cooling Action plan which has a long term vision to address the cooling requirement across sectors and lists out actions which can help reduce the cooling demand. Cooling requirement is cross sectoral and an essential part for economic growth and is required across different sectors of the economy such as residential and commercial buildings, cold-chain, refrigeration, transport and industries. In order to strengthen the implementation of environmentally sound management of hazardous waste in the country, the Ministry amended the Hazardous and Other Wastes (Management & Transboundary Movement) Rules, 2016 vide notification G.S.R. G.S.R. XX (E), dated 01 March 2019. The amendment has been done keeping into consideration the “Ease of Doing Business” and boosting “Make in India” initiative by simplifying the procedures under the Rules, while at the same time upholding the principles of sustainable development and ensuring minimal impact on the environment. On World environment Day, Union Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Prakash Javadekar launched a people’s campaign #SelfiewithSapling urging all to join and plant a sapling and post the selfie with the sapling on social media. Shri Javadekar stressed that ‘Jan Bhagidari’ is integral towards tackling the environmental issues and environment protection has to be a people’s movement. Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 29th December to 5th January – 2020 Forest & Wildlife A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in February between MoEF&CC; and University of British Columbia (UBC), Canada for next 10 years in New Delhi. Both the institutions shall explore opportunities for future collaborations in the field of forestry science through their respective organizations namely Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education, Wildlife Institute of India, Forest Survey of India, Indira Gandhi National Forest Academy and Directorate of Forest Education, Dehradun, Uttarakhand, India and University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada. A dedicated“Asiatic Lion Conservation Project” with a budgetary contribution of Rs 97.85 Cr from Central Government was launched in February . The Asiatic Lion endemic to Gir landscape of Gujarat, is one of the 21 critically endangered species identified by the Ministry for taking up recovery programmes. ‘Not all animals migrate by choice’ campaign launched to raise awareness on illegal wildlife trade. Tigers count in India rise to 2967, in 2018: On the occasion of International Tiger Day, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi released the results of the fourth cycle of All India Tiger Estimation - 2018 in New Delhi on July 29th, 2019. The count of tigers in India has risen to 2967, in 2018, according to this census. In a major boost towards promoting afforestation and achieving green objectives of the country, the Ministry handed over Rs.47,436 crores of Compensatory Afforestation Fund anagement and Planning Authority, CAMPA funds to various states in August. Important activities on which the fund will be utilised will be for the Compensatory Afforestation, Catchment Area Treatment, Wildlife Management, Assisted Natural Regeneration, Forest Fire Prevention and Control Operations, Soil and Moisture Conservation Works in the forest, Improvement of Wildlife Habitat, Management of Biological Diversity and Biological Resources, Research in Forestry and Monitoring of CAMPA works etc. With efforts towards protecting and conserving Snow Leopards, the First National Protocol on Snow Leopard Population Assessment in India was launched on the occasion of International Snow Leopard Day in October. Draft amendment to the Indian Forests Act withdrawn to remove any misgivings, thereby enriching the livelihood of tribals and forest dwellers. Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 29th December to 5th January – 2020 Climate Change A publication released in February on climate actions in India titled “India – Spearheading Climate Solutions”. This publication “India – Spearheading Climate Solutions” mentions the key actions India has taken under various sectors towards combating and adapting to climate change. India CEO Forum on Climate Change was organized, as the pioneering initiative of the government, inviting industry representatives, exchanged views on climate change issues and discussed opportunities to collaborate in regard to fulfilling India’s national as well as international climate change commitments. India to increase share of non-fossil fuels to 175 GW by 2022 and further take it to 450 GW World leaders gathered in New York in September for the United Nations Secretary General (UNSG) Climate Action Summit. Bringing attention towards India’s efforts in always following a climate sensitive sustainable development pathway by mainstreaming climate change concerns in development policies, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi announced thatIndia is going to increase the share of non-fossil fuels to 175 GW by 2022, and will further take it to 450 GW. The Global Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure was also launched. India at COP 25, Calls upon more countries to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA): The 25th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 25) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) was held under the Presidency of Chile in Madrid, Spain on 02nd – 15th December 2019.Some of the Key issues discussed at COP25 were Pre-2020 implementation and ambition gaps, Article 6 under the Paris Agreement, Enhanced Transparency Framework (Monitoring, Reporting and Verification), Warsaw International Mechanism (WIM) for Loss and Damage associated with Climate Change Impacts, Adaptation related matters where in India has been stressing on parity between mitigation and adaptation and Technology development and transfer. At COP25, India also called upon more countries to join the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to reduce dependence on fossil fuels to meet the growing energy requirement, even as it acknowledged the phenomenal progress made by the Alliance and the growing solar energy capabilities the world over. Year End Review: Ministry of Science and Technology The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill – 2019: The Bill has been formulated recognizing the need for regulation of the use and application of Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) technology, for establishing identity of missing persons, victims, offenders, under trials and unknown deceased persons. Biotechnology Key missions announced – Atal Jai Anusandhan Biotech Mission - Undertaking Nationally Relevant Technology Innovation (UNaTI), which is expected to transform Health, Agriculture and Energy sectors during the next 5 years GARBH-ini - A Mission to promote Maternal and Child Health and develop prediction tools for pre-term berth IndCEPI - A Mission to develop affordable vaccines for endemic diseases Development of Biofortified and Protein Rich wheat - contributing to POSHAN Abhiyan Mission on Anti-Microbial Resistance for Affordable Diagnostics and Therapeutics Clean Energy Mission - Innovative Technology interventions for Swachh Bharat Drones to undertake Large scale Mapping of Village areas in Maharashtra: Survey of India, the national mapping agency of the country under the Min of Science & Technology has signed an MoU with Department of revenue & Land records, Govt of Maharashtra to undertake the Large scale Mapping of Village Gaothan (Aabadi) areas in the State of Maharashtra using drones. Launched UMMID (Unique Methods of Management and treatment of Inherited Disorders) initiative and inaugurated NIDAN (National Inherited Diseases Administration) Kendras. India and Netherlands launched the second phase of the LOTUS-HR (Local Treatment of Urban Sewage streams for Healthy Reuseplant) First Indigenous Fuel Cell System developed by CSIR - New Millennium Indian Technology Leadership Initiative (NMITLI) Launch of “Green Crackers” developed by CSIR in a bid to curb air pollution: Green logo and QR coding system was also launched to track manufacture & sale of counterfeit crackers. CSIR conducts Whole Genome Sequencing of over 1,000 Indians for Biomedical Applications - will be important for building the knowhow, baseline data and indigenous capacity in the emerging area of Precision Medicine. Prelims oriented news 4th Jan: World Braille Day Dada Saheb Phalke Award: Shri Amitabh Bachchan Exercise INDRA 2019: A joint, tri services exercise between India and Russia Cyclones of 2019 Cyclonic Storm ‘PABUK’ over Andaman Sea & neighbourhood Cyclone ‘FANI’ over Southwest Bay & adjoining Southeast of Bengal Cyclonic Storm ‘VAYU’ over Northeast & adjoining East central Arabian Sea Cyclonic Storm ‘HIKAA’ over northeast and adjoining east central Arabian sea Cyclonic Storm ‘BULBUL’ over northwest and adjoining West-Central Bay of Bengal India State of Forest Report (ISFR): As compared to the assessment of 2017, there is an increase of 5,188 sq. km in the total forest and tree cover of the country. Range increase in forest cover has been observed in open forest followed by very dense forest and moderately dense forest and the top three states showing increase in forest cover are Karnataka (1,025 sq. km) followed by Andhra Pradesh (990 sq km) and Kerala (823 sq km) Area-wise Madhya Pradesh has the largest forest cover in the country followed by Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Maharashtra. Top three states showing mangrove cover increase are Gujarat (37 sq km) followed by Maharashtra (16 sq km) and Odisha (8 sq km). There is an increase of 0.32 million hectare in bamboo bearing area as compared to the last assessment of ISFR 2017. The report is published by the Forest Survey of India (FSI) which has been mandated to assess the forest and tree resources of the country including wall-to-wall forest cover mapping in a biennial cycle. Starting 1987, 16 assessment have been completed so far. ISFR 2019 is the 16th report in the series. Asian Development Bank (ADB) has prepared an Action Plan for Infrastructure Creation to Increase the Use of Coastal Shipping in India: This action plan includes recommendations with respect to infrastructure creation required to increase the use of coastal shipping in India. MoU between India and the UK on Cooperation in Weather and Climate Sciences: Under the MoU an Implementation Agreement on Weather and climate science for service partnership will also be signed between India and the UK. MoU on Antarctic cooperation between India and Argentina: The MoU will help scientific cooperation on projects in the fields of Earth sciences, as well as those related to the protection and conservation of the natural environment of Antarctica and the Southern Oceans. Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA): Strengthening of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with main thrust on convergence with Mission Antyodaya and emphasis on strengthening PRIs in 117 Aspirational districts. Mission Mode Project on e-Panchayat: Under the e-Panchayat MMP, a suite of Core Common Applications has been developed collectively called Panchayat Enterprise Suite (PES) Applications. Following are some of the key activities undertaken under the e-Panchayat MMP during the year: Unified portal focusing on Work Based Accounting: Unified Portal is a new initiative of the Ministry, which will provide the GPs with a single interface to prepare and implement their GPDP. Unified portal would reduce the number of data entries that Gram Panchayat user performs. It will bring in a more user-friendly interface with ease of navigation that would make it hassle-free for the GPs to track, monitor and modify their Action Plan. On-boarding of schemes on PRIASoft- PFMS integration for real time payments by GPs: The Ministry, in the current year, has put in place a robust mechanism capturing the entire gamut of activity right from the stage of planning to monitor the various stages of work, recording the expenditure incurred for the works to providing a complete detail of the asset created. Around one lakh GPs have onboarded this interface. Gram Manchitra: Gram Manchitra is a Spatial Planning Application launched by Hon’ble Minister of Panchayati Raj on October 23, 2019 on the occasion of National Panchayat Awards, 2019, for facilitating and supporting GP users to perform planning at Gram Panchayat level with the use of geo-spatial technology. It provides a single/ unified Geo Spatial platform to better visualize the various developmental works to be taken up across the 29 sectors and provide a decision support system for GPDP. National Florence Nightingale Awards The Government of India instituted these awards in 1973. They are named after Florence Nightingale, the founder of modern nursing, and the very icon of selfless care. The sacrifice of Late Mrs. Lini Puthuserry was acknowledged, and was honoured posthumously for her unsurpassed dedication while taking care of patients during the Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala. The world is more and more in need of care and compassion, and nurses indeed are a symbol of seva, shushrusha, karuna. World Health Organisation has announced 2020 as the Year of the Nurse and Mid-wife. Incidentally, 2020 will also mark the 200th birth anniversary of Florence Nightingale. BRICS remote Sensing Satellite Constellation The space agencies of BRICS nations have been negotiating a Framework Agreement to formalize the cooperation on building a ‘virtual constellation of remote sensing satellites’, made up of satellites contributed by BRICS space agencies.  Technical aspects with respect to identifying the satellites and the ground stations for the initial virtual constellation were discussed by the Space Agencies. The purpose of the proposed virtual constellation is to get access to satellite remote sensing data, which could be used by the individual BRICS nations for various applications including natural resources management and disaster management. Neutrino Observatory in Tamil Nadu: Theni district in Tamil Nadu Highest priority is accorded to safety in all aspects of nuclear power viz. siting, design, construction, commissioning, and operation. Nuclear power plants are designed adopting safety principles of redundancy, diversity and provided fail-safe design features following a defence in depth approach. This ensures that there are multiple barriers between the source of radioactivity and the environment. The operations are performed adopting well laid out procedures by highly qualified, trained and licensed personnel. Appropriate Personal Protection Equipments and monitoring aids are provided to all the personnel working in the nuclear power plants. Home Ministry sanctions Women Help Desks in Police Stations across the country Ministry of Home Affairs has sanctioned a sum Rs. 100 crores from Nirbhaya Fund Women Help Desks would focus on making the Police Stations more women friendly and approachable, as they would be the first and single point of contact for any woman walking into a police station. Essentially, lady police officers would be deployed at these help desks. The officials of Women Help Desk would be trained to be sensitive towards women.  These help desks would have enlisted panel of experts like lawyers, psychologists and NGOs to facilitate legal aid, counseling, shelter, rehabilitation and training etc. Indian Tourism: India’s rank in Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Index (TTCI) of World Economic Forum has moved from 65th rank in 2013 to 34thrank in 2019. The “Adopt a Heritage: Apni Dharohar, Apni Pehchaan’’ project is a collaborative effort by the Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Culture and Archaeological Survey of India, State/ UTs Government for developing tourist amenities at heritage/tourist sites and making them tourist friendly, in a planned and phased manner. Ministry of Tourism has launched ‘Incredible India Tourist Facilitators Certification’ (IITFC) programme. The certification programme is an Online Learning Management System which aims at creating skilled manpower to work as tourist facilitators. The programme helps local citizens in harnessing the local experience and traditional knowledge for assisting tourists and to be a potential bread earner for their households.

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 6th January 2020

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 6th January 2020 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Belum Caves Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I- Geography In News Belum Caves in Andhra Pradesh is the second longest cave in the Indian subcontinent open to public. The cave is second natural cave only after Krem Liat Prah caves in Meghalaya. Belum caves are renowned for their speleothem structures, such as stalactite and stalagmite formations. With long passages, narrow galleries, and spacious tanks filled with fresh water, this cave was formed over the course of tens of thousands of years by the constant flow of underground water from the now-disappeared river Chitravathi. The caves hold immense historical significance as there are several indications that these were occupied by Jain and Buddhist monks many centuries ago Smog Towers: Delhi gets its first tower to tackle pollution Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III- Environment Conservation. In News Smog towers are structures designed to work as large-scale air purifiers.  These air filters shall draw in the air through fans installed at the top before passing it through the filters and releasing it near the ground. The filters installed in the tower will use carbon nanofibres as a major component and will focus on reducing particulate matter load. The Supreme Court had directed the Centre and the Delhi government to prepare a plan to install ‘smog towers’ across the capital to deal with air pollution. The 100m Xi’an tower in China which is dubbed the world’s largest has reportedly brought down PM 2.5 by 19% in an area of around 6 sq km in its vicinity. Human Space Flight Centre (HSFC): To be established in Karnataka Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains –III- Space Science & Technology In News India’s world-class facility for training astronauts will come up at Challakere, a shrubby, arid oilseeds town in Karnataka. will be the single-stop consolidating infrastructure and activities related to space travellers. It will be a self-contained facility there so that in future, whatever training and activities India is now doing in Russia for the Gaganyaan crew can all be done here About Gaganyaan Gaganyaan is the human space flight programme under which 3 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. If successful, India would become the fourth nation to conduct a human space flight programme after USSR/Russia, USA and China. Bibi Ka Maqbara Part of: GS Prelims In News It is a tomb located in Aurangabad, Maharashtra.  The structure, known as the ‘Taj of the Deccan’ because of its striking resemblance to the Taj Mahal, was commissioned by Emperor Aurangzeb in 1660 in the memory of his wife Dilras Banu Begum. Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN): Calls for objective assessment & transparency of scheme Part of: GS Prelims and GS II- Governance In News The Air Passengers Association of India wants UDAN scheme to be fine-tuned and recalibrated with details of the scheme to be made public -money spent by the government in airline subsidies, the number of routes suspended 35 lakh passengers have availed benefit under the scheme since its inception Value Addition for Prelims Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) was launched in 2016 to make air travel affordable for people through subsidised ticket rates and to provide air connectivity to smaller towns In order to expand UDAN to international circuits, Centre has also unveiled the International Air Connectivity (IAC) scheme. Saras Mk2 Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Security In News It is a light transport aircraft which is indigenously developed by National Aerospace Laboratory (NAL) The 19-seater aircraft, developed with a target cost of ₹50 crore, is at least 20-25% lower in cost than other aircraft in the similar category. NAL is been pitching Saras Mk-2 for the government’s UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik), since it has the capacity to operate in “ill-equipped”, “semi-prepared” and “unpaved airstrips”. Scientific Social Responsibility Part of: GS Prelims  In News Under this programme, researchers who are working on a science project funded by any of the Ministries under the Central government will have to undertake activities to popularise science and make it more accessible to the public. Centre would draw up a list of activities which could be taken up under the Scientific Social Responsibility programme, that was similar to Corporate Social Responsibility. The activities could range from going to colleges delivering lectures, writing an article in a magazine or doing something beyond the curriculum. The move would not only bridge the gap between research institutes and the civilians, but also help scientists hone their communication skills. Drosophila conference: To be held in India for first time Part of: GS Prelims  In News Drosophila is a genus of two-winged flies commonly known as fruit flies. Pune is set to host the fifth edition of the Asia-Pacific Drosophila Research Conference which is being organised in the country for the first time by the Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER). Its genome is entirely sequenced and there is enormous information available about its biochemistry, physiology and behaviour, Drosophila is one of the most widely-used and preferred model organisms in biological research across the world for the last 100 years.  Approximately 60% of a group of readily identified genes that are mutated, amplified, or deleted in a diverse set of human diseases have a counterpart in Drosophila. (MAINS FOCUS) POILTY TOPIC: General Studies 2: Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. World Trade Organization: U.S. crippled the functioning of the WTO Context: Recently  the U.S. chose to spike the Appellate Body of WTO by starving funds for its functioning.  US  stalled the selection process for filling six vacancies at the Appellate Body. Consequently, the Appellate Body is left with only one member, who will not be able to deliver any rulings on pending trade disputes (a minimum of three members is required to adjudicate any dispute) Why US Chose to spike? Appellate Body has posed hurdles to the U.S. for adopting unilateral measures. Several U.S.  provisions for imposing countervailing and anti-dumping measures were found to be inconsistent with core provisions of the WTO agreements. Finally, the U.S. chose to spike the Appellate Body by resorting to starving funds for its functioning as well as blocking the selection process for filling six vacancies.  Consequently, the Appellate Body is left with only one member, who will not be able to deliver any rulings on the pending trade disputes.  A minimum of three members are required to adjudicate any dispute. World Trade Organization’s Appellate Body : For proper enforcement of trade rules, a binding, two-stage dispute settlement system was established at the World Trade Organization in the 1990s.  The Appellate Body is the scaffolding of the dispute settlement system, with seven standing members. Working: In the first stage for adjudicating trade disputes, a panel would decide cases brought before it by the members. Rulings issued by the panels can be appealed at the Appellate Body.  As part of the second-stage of adjudication, the Appellate Body can uphold, modify or reverse the legal findings and conclusions of a panel.  The Appellate Body’s decisions are final and adopted within 30 days by the dispute settlement body.  Sanctions can be imposed on a member in case of its failure to comply with the Appellate Body’s rulings. Cases dealt: Cases involving trade remedies such as countervailing and anti-dumping measures, and the use of a controversial practice called the zeroing methodology that inflated the anti-dumping duties. Significance: The establishment of the Appellate Body has given teeth and credibility to the rules-based multilateral trading system.  Moreover, it provided security and predictability in the multilateral trading system. India’s Stand:  “At the core of a functioning multilateral trading system is an effective dispute resolution mechanism.” Although not perfect, the dispute settlement system has led to meaningful reductions in unfair trade practices and has helped to strengthen the rules-based international trading system.” The U.S. has been one of the bigger users of the dispute settlement system and also a beneficiary “of this public good,” India said, cautioning that “unless the Membership acts in concert … to lift the block on AB vacancies, we are going to lose this public good which has served all of us so well.” Impact: It is a tremendous loss for the majority of WTO members who are all developing and poor countries.  they “lack the political and economic clout to enforce their rights and protect their interests in a system governed by power and not rules. Conclusion: The absence of the Appellate Body will create a jungle raj and paves the way for a steep descent into the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade, 1947 rules. Connecting the dots: How do you think it impacts India? Do you think US will change its stand? Is the World Trade Organization dying? HISTORY TOPIC: General Studies 1: Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country Inter- state border dispute: Maharashtra-Karnataka Belgaum tension (Part-2) In news: Recently Bus services between Kolhapur and Belgaum were suspended after the decades-old border dispute between Maharashtra and Karnataka flared up again. Various Kannada organisations had staged a protest in Belgaum and burnt the effigy of Maharashtra Chief Minister Uddhav Thackeray. Controversy  In 1957, slighted by the implementation of the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, Maharashtra demanded readjustment of its border with Karnataka.  It invoked Section 21 (2) (b) of the Act, and submitted a memorandum to the Ministry of Home Affairs stating its objection to Marathi- speaking areas being added to Karnataka.  It claimed an area of 2,806 square miles that involved 814 villages, and three urban settlements of Belagavi, Karwar and Nippani with a total population of about 6.7 lakh, all part of the Mumbai Presidency before independence.  The villages are spread across Belagavi and Uttar Kannada in north-western Karnataka, and Bidar and Gulbarga districts in north-eastern Karnataka — all bordering Maharashtra. when a four-member committee was formed by both States, Maharashtra expressed willingness to transfer predominantly Kannada-speaking 260 villages with a population of about 3.25 lakh and total area of 1,160 square miles in lieu of accepting its demand for 814 villages and three urban settlements, which was turned down by Karnataka. Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 6th January 2020 SRC:Newsminute  Remember: Karnataka declared Belagavi its second capital, holds its winter session at the newly constructed Vidhan Soudha, changed the name of Belgaum to Belagavi and also held the World Kannada Summit there — all in the last 15 years.  In 2004, Maharashtra approached the Supreme Court for a settlement under Article 131(b) of the Constitution.  Karnataka has questioned the suit. With one of the judges recusing, the court has to set up a new bench. Maharashtra’s claim: Maharashtra’s claim to seek the readjustment of its border was on the basis of contiguity, relative linguistic majority and wishes of the people.  If the claim over Belagavi and surrounding areas was based on Marathi-speaking people and linguistic homogeneity, it laid its claim over Karwar and Supa where Konkani is spoken by citing Konkani as a dialect of Marathi.  Its argument was based on the theory of village being the unit for calculation and enumerated linguistic population in each village.  Maharashtra also points out the historical fact that the revenue records in these Marathi-speaking areas are also kept in Marathi. Karnataka’s position: Karnataka has argued that the settlement of boundaries as per the States Reorganisation Act is final.  The boundary of the State was neither tentative nor flexible.  The State argues that the issue would reopen border issues that have not been contemplated under the Act, and that such a demand should not be permitted. Initially, Karnataka was open to adjusting the border in the 10 mile belt from the drawn boundary. Karnataka also points out that when Congress, which redrew its circles on linguistic basis in 1920, included Belagavi in the Karnataka Provincial Congress Committee. Besides, the States Reorganisation Commission vested Belagavi with Karnataka. Way forward: In 1960, both States agreed to set up a four-man committee with two representatives from each State.  Except on the issue of contiguity, the committee could not arrive at a unanimous decision, and respective representatives submitted reports to their government.  Between the 1960s and 1980s, chief ministers of Karnataka and Maharashtra have met several times to find a solution to the vexed issue but with no avail. Central govt’s stand: In 1966, the Centre announced setting up a one-man commission under former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India Meher Chand Mahajan to look into border issues between Karnataka (then Mysore state) and Maharashtra.  The commission was also asked to look into Karnataka’s demand for integration of Kannada-speaking areas in Kasargod in Kerala. Karnataka sought areas in Kolhapur, Sholapur and Sangli districts from Maharashtra, and Kasargod from Kerala. The commission rejected Maharashtra’s claim over Belagavi city while recommending transfer of about 260 villages in the border to Maharashtra and about 250 villages in Maharashtra to Karnataka. Maharashtra said the report was inconsistent and an unfair application of its own principle. It also said the report was not a final word on the issue. Karnataka, however, agreed to the report. Connecting the dots: Do you think this dispute is detrimental for the integrity of the country? How do you think the dispute can be resolved? (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 about Smog Towers These air filters shall draw in the air through fans installed at the top before passing it through the filters and releasing it near the ground. The filters generally use carbon nanofibres as a major component and will focus on reducing particulate matter load. Which of the above statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Saras Mk2 It is a light transport aircraft which is indigenously developed by Hindustan Aeronotics Limited (HAL) It will be ideal for commuter connectivity under the UDAAN scheme and other applications like aerial search/survey, executive transport, disaster management and border patrol Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Belum Caves is located in which state of India?  Kerala Maharashtra Andhra Pradesh Karnataka Q.4) Consider the following statements about Gaganyaan Mission It is ISRO’s human space flight programme under which 3 Indian astronauts will go into space by 2022. Russian launch vehicle will lift Indian astronauts to their orbit. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 04 JAN 2020 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 C 2 C 3 D 4 A 5 D MUST READ Life of science: On Indian Science Congress The Hindu Least surprise: On Tamil Nadu local body poll results The Hindu Scoring a foreign policy self-goal The Hindu The prospect of food and fuel inflation makes it necessary for the government to initiate structural reforms IE Woods that aren’t dark or lovely enough ET Fiscal discipline isn’t a small deficit ET In the rage-filled India of 2020, could we give Reason a chance? Live mint