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Feb 15, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

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

Feb 15, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

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

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

Feb 15, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th February 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th February 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Kerala takes the lead in the fight against trans fat Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Health issue; Government schemes and programmes In news: Kerala Health Department has drawn up an action plan to generate public awareness on the harmful effects of trans fatty acids (TFA) in commercially available food items. The action plan will also encourage the local food industry to meet the current statutory limits set for TFA and keep their food TFA-free. Salt being a major contributor to hypertension and stroke, the action plan also plans to address the high salt content in processed foods, pickles, papads and condiments by encouraging manufacturers to move to low sodium options. Pic: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Thiruvananthapuram/4pwlk1/article26261767.ece/alternates/FREE_615/14tv-Trans-fatcol Do you know? Various studies suggest that an unhealthy diet with a high TFA content is a significant factor that pushes up metabolic syndrome and the burden of its associated complications. Article 35A Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Indian Polity; Centre and State Relations; Constitution of India About: Article 35A deals with providing special status to the State and people of Jammu and Kashmir. The article empowers the Jammu and Kashmir state’s legislature to define “permanent residents” of the state and confer on them special rights and privileges in public sector jobs, acquisition of property in the State, scholarships and other public aid and welfare. The provision mandates that no act of the legislature coming under it can be challenged for violating the Constitution or any other law of the land. It was added to the constitution through a presidential order of 1954 with the then J&K government’s concurrence. Article 35A does not allow people from outside the state of Jammu & Kashmir to work, settle or own property in the state. Why in news? The Article, which was unknown to the public domain till recent times, has raked up an intense debate in the country when a Kashmiri woman, Charu Wali Khan filed a petition to change the constitutional provision as she wanted succession rights in the state though she is settled outside the state. An NGO, ‘We the Citizens’ had also filed a writ petition to strike down Article 35A. The NDA Government wants to have a larger debate over the Article 35A challenging the constitutional validity of the clause. Supreme Court to hear petitions challenging Article 35A soon. 99.82% projects in forests got nod Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Biodiversity; Role of NBWL In news: National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) cleared 682 of the 687 projects (99.82%) that came up for scrutiny. Only five projects were rejected since August 2014. NBWL is the apex body charged with allowing forest land in Protected Areas to be diverted for industry. From 2009-2013, under the UPA regime, NBWL recommended 260 of the 328 that came into its purview — or about 80% of the projects. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/02/14/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/39f1cdc6_2733469_101_mr.jpg About National Board for Wild Life (NBWL) It is a “Statutory Organization” constituted under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. It is a very important body because it serves as apex body to review all wildlife-related matters and approve projects in and around national parks and sanctuaries. The NBWL adjudicates on industrial projects, road diversions or the like that could encroach into Protected Areas or eco-sensitive zones of forests. A smaller Standing Committee of the NBWL is charged with deliberating on the merits of projects that come to it for scrutiny; the committee comprises scientists and government officials and is chaired by Union Environment Minister. ‘Only 84% rural households have electricity in four States’ Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Government schemes and programmes; Infrastructure/Energy In news: According to a comprehensive private sector survey of 10,000 households – Only 84% of rural households have electricity connection in the four States of Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Odisha and Rajasthan. Only 75% of all households used electricity from the grid. In other words, several households that relied on off-grid sources of electricity despite having a connection. The findings of the Survey is in contrast to the government’s Saubhagya Scheme data, which shows that 100% household electrification has been achieved in U.P., Bihar and Odisha; and 99.9% in Rajasthan. Do you know: about Saubhagya Scheme? PM launched Rs. 16320 crore scheme to supply electricity to all households by December 2018, providing free connection to poor and at low cost to others. The PM Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana named SAUBHAGYA aims to improve environment, public health and education and connectivity with help of last mile power connections across India. Miscellaneous: 1. Citizenship, triple talaq Bills lapse Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Indian Polity; Centre-State Relations; Citizenship In news: The Citizenship (Amendment) Bill, 2019, that had set off a series of violent protests across the northeastern States, lapsed as the government failed to push it through Rajya Sabha. Along with the Citizenship Bill, the triple talaq Bill that criminalises instant divorce in a Muslim marriage has also lapsed. Do you know? There have been widespread protests against the Citizenship Bill that proposed to grant citizenship to six religious minorities — Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, Parsis, Christians and Buddhists — from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh, who came to India before December 31, 2014. The Bill was seen as violating the terms of the 1985 Assam Accord that had set March 24, 1971 as the cut-off for granting citizenship. CAG Report on Rafale deal Context: In previous DNA, we read about key findings of ‘domain experts’ (senior Defence Ministry officials) on the Indian Negotiating Team (INT) Domain experts findings were directly contrary to the two central claims made by the Indian government of a cheaper deal and faster delivery of fighter aircraft. Domain experts also registered serious concern over the Indian government’s acceptance of a ‘Letter of Comfort’ instead of a sovereign or government guarantee or bank guarantees and also acceptance of offset issues and Dassault Aviation’s restrictive trade practices. Do you know? There have been varying claims from government officials on how much cheaper the 2016 deal was, with estimates ranging from 9% to 20%. In news: However, CAG report provides the following key highlights – The contract signed in 2016 to acquire 36 Rafale fighter jets from France through the Inter-Governmental Agreement (IGA) was 86% lower in value than “Audit’s aligned price” of the bid received in 2007 when the then UPA government had sought to purchase 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA). The CAG also observed that the price could have been reduced further had the benefits of waiving of the bank guarantees for the vendor (Dassault Aviation) been passed on to India. On the delivery schedule, the CAG found that the 2016 deal’s terms would ensure only a month’s advantage over the timeline offered in the 2007 bid. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/02/14/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_01/0218af94_2733460_101_mr.jpg (MAINS FOCUS) WELFARE/ECONOMY TOPIC: General studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections General studies 3 Issues related to direct and indirect farm subsidies and minimum support prices Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. For effective implementation of PM-KISAN Context: In previous DNA editorials, we covered – About Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme (Click here) Analysis of PM-KISAN: Will the Rs6,000 farmer payout help? (Click Here) Need of the scheme (Click Here) Challenges to the scheme (Click Here) Why MGNREGA better than PM-KISAN? (Click Here) After going through above editorials, we feel even though PM-KISAN is a progressive step, is it enough to mitigate India’s severe agrarian distress? Concerns with Agriculture Sector: Agriculture sector employs over 50% of the workforce either directly or indirectly The sector remains the main source of livelihood for over 70% of rural households Droughts of 2014 and 2015, ad-hoc export and import policies, lack of infrastructure, and uncertainty in agricultural markets have adversely affected agricultural productivity and stability of farm incomes. Agriculture growth rates in the last five years: It has been inconsistent Year Growth Rate 2013-14 5.6% 2014-15 (-) 0.2% 2015-16 0.7% 2016-17 4.9% 2017-18 2.1% Pic: https://images.firstpost.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/08/agri1.png Therefore, PM-KISAN is aimed at boosting rural consumption and helping poor farmers recover from distress. However, without adequate focus on proper strategy and implementation, the scheme is unlikely to make any meaningful impact. Need of the hour: For successful implementation of PM-KISAN 1. Adequate financial support Cash transfers are mooted for their potential greater efficiency in enabling poor households to directly purchase the required goods and services as well as enhance their market choices. PM-KISAN effectiveness can only be realised through financial support that provides farmers with adequate purchasing power. However, the income support of ₹17 a day for a household (as against ₹32 per person per day in rural areas, according to the Rangarajan Committee), which is the amount offered by PM-KISAN, is largely insufficient for even bare minimum sustenance of vulnerable farmers. Therefore, PM-KISAN should first ensure that there is enough cash provided to help bring an affected community out of poverty. 2. Inflation adjusted Cash Transfer Given the volatile market and price fluctuations in different regions, it is important to index the cash transfers to local inflation. Failure of DBT in kerosene in Rajasthan can be attributed to this insufficient cash transfers which was not adjusted based on market price fluctuations or inflation. 3. Well-planned Implementation Mechanism The scheme requires significant implementation capabilities. Majority of the States have incomplete tenancy records and land data are not digitized. Therefore, identification of beneficiaries is daunting. Many pilot schemes aimed to replace subsidised food grains with cash in three Union Territories (Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, and Puducherry) have failed due to data inconsistencies. In the absence of updated land records and complete databases, the scheme may end up benefitting only those who hold land titles and not the small, marginal or tenant farmers who are the most vulnerable. Conclusion: PM-KISAN is an ambitious scheme that has the potential to deliver significant welfare outcomes. However, the current top-down, rushed approach of the government ignores governance constraints and is therefore likely to result in failure. An alternative bottom-up strategy and well-planned implementation mechanism would allow weaknesses to be identified and rectified at the local level. The most effective modalities can then be scaled nationally and ensure success. Connecting the dots: PM-KISAN is an ambitious scheme that has the potential to deliver significant welfare outcomes. Do you agree? Also discuss what measures are needed for its successful implementation? NATIONAL/ECONOMY TOPIC:General studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Governance issues; Role of Civil Society Organizations General Studies 3 Environment versus development. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Infrastructure: Energy, Ports, Roads, Airports, Railways etc. New Coastal Regulation Zone Notification and Role of Civil Societies Context: In previous DNA editorials, we covered – Salient features of the New CRZ Notification, 2018 (Click Here) Difference between New CRZ Notification, 2018 and the previous CRZ Notification, 2011 (Click Here) Loopholes in New Coastal Regulation Zone Notification (Click Here) In news: Experts had opined that the recent Coastal Regulation Zone Notification 2018 ignores the vulnerabilities of coastal regions to climate change. The new CRZ notification is said to benefit hospitality/tourism industries and local economies, however, the lives and livelihood of thousands of citizens continue to be at risk. Concerns: India’s vulnerabilities to climate challenges should not be ignored. Government, businesses and civil society have the responsibility of constructive action to address this environmental challenge. However, governments in India do not prioritise climate change mitigation, fearing that it will impede economic growth and efforts to alleviate poverty. The role of civil society Civil societies have played important role in containing policies that can contribute to climate catastrophes and precarious situations. It helps to establish sustainable mitigative measures and improve quality of life in multiple dimensions — physical environment, health and finance. It helps to bring changes in consumption-related thinking and behaviour. Their involvement offers tremendous opportunity for citizens’ needs to be heard. It plays an assertive role in forcing a shift in the current stance and shaping the country’s climate policy. Vital tool: Bringing changes in consumption-related thinking and behaviour Important for sustainability Making mobility choices that result in efficient fuel use and lower carbon emissions. It calls for considering alternative sources of domestic electricity. Alter the use of cooling devices and power. Altering our lifestyles for sustainability has a silver lining — we have a valuable chance to re-orient our lives for substantive improvement. The sooner we act, the more significant the gain. In the emerging multi- faceted nature of governance, the civil society institutions can play a constructive role not only in harnessing the resources of the government but also in tapping the structure and resources of the market to give a fair deal to the people, and in creating an environment where sustainable development takes place. Connecting the dots: In the emerging multi- faceted nature of governance, the civil society institutions can play a constructive role not only in harnessing the resources of the government but also in tapping the structure and resources of the market to give a fair deal to the people, and in creating an environment where sustainable development takes place. Comment. Discuss the role of Civil Society Institutions in Sustainable Development and Environmental Governance in India. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the below statements: Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) targets eliminating trans fat in India by the year 2022. World Health Organisation (WHO) launched a new mass media campaign called “Heart Attack Rewind” which targets eliminating trans fat globally by the year 2023. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following Transfat are saturated fatty acids They are formed during the process of addition of hydrogen atoms to oil Trans fat are naturally found in nature Which of the following statements is/are false with respect to “Trans fat”? 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 3 only None Q.3) Consider the following statements about Article 35A It is a part of original constitution. The provision discriminates against a woman’s right to property. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following advantages of conserving Biodiversity It ensures the sustainable utilization of life support systems on earth. The genetic diversity of plants and animals are preserved. It ensures that it will fulfil all the development needs of people. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.5) Consider the following about National Board for Wild Life (NBWL) It is a “Statutory Organization” constituted under the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. It is is the apex body charged with allowing forest land in Protected Areas to be diverted for industry. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.6) ‘Saubhagya Web Portal’ has been launched by government of India to track Gas connections in rural and urban households Electrification of rural and urban households Domestic violence in urban areas Swachch Bharat Abhiyan MUST READ Every drop matters The Hindu Dealing with the thought police The Hindu Begging the question Indian Express The chief statistician replies Indian Express Swachh Nigeria Indian Express

Feb 14, 2019 RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – DGP selection

DGP Selection Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Government policies and reforms Governance; transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures In News: The Supreme Court had dismissed the pleas of five states seeking modification of its order issued last year on the selection and appointment of director generals of police. The apex court was hearing applications of various state governments, including Punjab, Kerala, West Bengal, Haryana and Bihar, seeking implementation of their local laws regarding the selection and appointment of DGPs. A bench headed by Chief Justice Ranjan Gogoi said the earlier directions of the court on selection and appointment of DGPs were issued in larger public interest and to protect the police officials from political interference. Prakash Singh vs Union of India In its 2006 judgment in Prakash Singh vs Union of India (filed in 1996), the SC laid down guidelines for appointment and removal of the DGP. In the 2006 judgment, the SC said – The Director General of Police of the State shall be selected by the State Government from amongst the three senior most officers of the department who have been empanelled for promotion to that rank by the Union Public Service Commission on the basis of their length of service, very good record and range of experience for heading the police force. And once he has been selected for the job, he should have a minimum tenure of at least two years irrespective of his date of superannuation. About removal: The DGP may… be relieved of the responsibilities by the State government acting in consultation with the State Security Commission consequent upon any action taken against him under the All India Services (Discipline and Appeal) Rules or following his conviction in a court of law in a criminal offence or in a case of corruption, or if he is otherwise incapacitated from discharging his duties. On July 3, 2018, the Supreme Court passed another order laying down further guidelines for the appointment of a DGP by the States, stressing that there is no concept of an acting DGP. In the 2018 order, it said – All the States shall send their proposals in anticipation of the vacancies to the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) well in time at least three months prior to the date of retirement of the incumbent on the post of DGP. The UPSC shall prepare the panel as per directions of this court in the judgment in Prakash Singh’s case and intimate the Sates. The state shall immediately appoint one of the persons from the panel prepared by UPSC. None of the States shall ever conceive of the idea of appointing any person on the post of DGP on acting basis for there is no concept of acting Director General of Police as per the decision in Prakash Singh’s case. An endeavour has to be made by all concerned to see that the person who was selected and appointed as DGP continues despite his date of superannuation.” The court also directed the States to “ensure that DGP is appointed through a merit-based transparent process and secure a minimum tenure of two years.” Pic link: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/07/04/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_01/beb9e31a_2219759_101_mr.jpg Conclusion: The Supreme Court must increase the pressure on state governments to implement the Prakash Singh judgment. It must also ensure that central government doesn’t exercise its clout. Finding the right balance is important. Connecting the Dots: The half-hearted implementation of the Prakash Singh judgment has come back to haunt the states. Discuss. What are the recommendations of the Prakash Singh Committee on police reforms? Examine.

Feb 14, 2019 IASbaba's Monthly Magazine

IAS UPSC Current Affairs Magazine JANUARY 2019

IAS UPSC Current Affairs Magazine JANUARY 2019 ARCHIVES Hello Friends, This is the 44th edition of IAS UPSC Current Affairs Magazine for JANUARY 2019. And Current Affairs for UPSC Civil Services Examination is an important factor in this preparation. An effort towards making your Current Affairs for IAS UPSC Preparation qualitative. We hope you make the best use of it! This edition covers all important current affairs issues that were in news for the month of JANUARY 2019 DOWNLOAD THE MAGAZINE- CLICK HERE

Feb 14, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 172

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 172 Archives Q.1) ‘Cobra Gold’ is a military exercise between USA and Russia Japan and Russia Russia and China None of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘National Productivity Council (NPC)’ It is under the administrative control of the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade It is a constituent of the Tokyo-based Asian Productivity Organisation (APO), of which India is a founder member Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) ‘CUTLASS EXPRESS’ naval exercise is associated with Organisation of Islamic Cooperation Shanghai Cooperation Organization North Atlantic Treaty Organization None of the above Q.4) As part of the 100th Anniversary, ILO is implementing seven centenary initiatives. Which of the following are among those initiatives? The Governance Initiative The Future of Work Initiative The Women at Work Initiative Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.5) ‘Sela Pass’ is located in Jammu and Kashmir Sikkim Arunachal Pradesh Himachal Pradesh To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba

Feb 14, 2019 UPSC Interview Discussion-TRP

Interview Discussion IAS UPSC: Think, Rethink and Perform (TRP)-Day 20

Interview Discussion: Think, Rethink and Perform; (TRP)- Day 20 ARCHIVES Set 1: Ask these questions to yourself; contemplate and come out with a concrete answer (not to be discussed on this forum). Invest at least 30 minutes on this set of questions. What does greatness mean to you? How can can a person become great? What makes someone great- ideas or deeds? Have you done anything great in your life? Don’t you aspire to become a great person? Set 2: Analyse the following issue: A civil servant isn't only competent and capable, he/she is highly aware all of national and global developments. Last three years witnessed unprecedented global events. By taking at least three such events, bring out the impact that they had on India’s international outlook and interests.

Feb 13, 2019 PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 3rd Feb to 9th Feb - 2019

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 3rd Feb to 9th Feb - 2019 ARCHIVES GS-2 National Scheme of Incentive to Girls for Secondary Education (NSIGSE) (Topic: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population) Objective: The objective of the scheme is to establish an enabling environment to reduce the drop outs and to promote the enrolment of girl child belonging to SC/ST communities in secondary schools and ensure their retention up to the 18 years of age. Features of the scheme: According to the scheme, an amount of Rs.3000/- is deposited in the name of eligible unmarried girls as fixed deposit on enrolment in class IX, who are entitled to withdraw it along with interest thereon reaching on 18 years of age and passing class 10th class examination. The scheme is covered under the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Scheme. The scheme is on-boarded on National Scholarship Portal (NSP) since 2015-16. The scheme covers: All girls belonging to SC/ST communities who pass class VIII and All girls who pass class VIII examination from Kasturba Gandhi BalikaVidyalayas (irrespective of whether they belong to SC/ ST) and enroll in class IX in State/ UT Government, Government-aided and Local Body schools. Facts and figures The ASER surveys estimate that national attendance in primary and upper primary schools is 71.4 per cent and 73.2 per cent respectively, with considerable differences across states. The retention rates in elementary school are 70.7 per cent. The retention rates amongst scheduled tribes (STs) is 50.1 per cent. Data from the National Crime Records Bureau shows that student suicides have increased from about 6,600 in 2012 to about 9,000 in 2015, many of these because of stress related to examinations and careers. Thus, there is a need to reduce the mental stress students suffer from. About NSIGSE It is Centrally Sponsored Scheme aims to promote enrollment of girl child in the age group of 14-18 at secondary stage, especially those who passed Class VIII and to encourage the secondary education of such girls. State/ UT Governments, Schools controlled and managed by State Governments, Local Bodies and Aided Private Schools and Panchayati Raj Institutions will be the implementing partners. The amount of incentive may be released to the State/ UT Governments for depositing, the same in favour of the eligible girls. Other schemes promoting girls education are__ The Central board of Secondary Education (CBSE) is implementing Merit Scholarship Schemes for single girl child to provide scholarships to the meritorious Single Girl Students, who are the only child of their parents. It provide Rupees Five Hundred (Rs.500/‐) per month to Single Girl Child who is pursuing further studies for class XI & XII and have passed the CBSE class Xth exam with 60% / 6.2 CGPA or more marks/grades. The Ministry of Human Resource Development, Department of Higher Education is implementing the Central Sector Scheme of Scholarship for College and University Students since 2008. Under the scheme, financial assistance is provided to meritorious students whose family income of less than Rs.8 lakhs per annum for pursuing higher studies. The scheme envisages 82000 fresh scholarships award of every year, of which 50% is earmarked for girls. University Grant Commission (UGC) is implementing the scheme of Post Graduate Indira Gandhi Scholarship for Single Girl Child since 2006 for providing financial assistance to selected students for pursuing Post-Graduation in Universities/Institutions/Colleges in India. This scheme has been on boarded on National Scholarship Portal (NSP) since 2017-18. UGC is also implementing the schemes namely 1) Swami Vivekananda Single Girl Child Fellowship for Research in Social Sciences. 2) Post-Doctoral fellowship for Women for providing financial assistance to selected candidates for pursuing research / higher research on full time/regular basis in University/Institute/Colleges in India. The All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) is implementing “Pragati Scholarship Scheme for Girls Student” to provide assistance for advancement of girl’s participation in Technical Education. Under the scheme, 4000 scholarships are granted annually on “one girl, per family” basis where the family income is Rs.6 Lakhs/ annum or less. Digitalisation of schools across the country (Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources.) The Central Government has launched an Integrated Scheme for school education- Samagra Shiksha, which subsumes the three erstwhile Centrally Sponsored Schemes of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) and Teacher Education, from the year 2018-19. Government has undertaken various initiatives for providing education through digital means such as. ICT in Education Curriculum for School System - ICT curriculum for teachers and students has been developed by NCERT. Students’ curriculum was piloted in 588 Navodaya Vidyalayas for one year. e-pathshala –Developed by NCERT for showcasing and disseminating all educational e-resources including textbooks, audio, video, periodicals and a variety of other print and non-print materials. National Repository of Open Educational Resources (NROER) - is an initiative to bring together all digital and digitisable resources across all stages of school education and teacher education. States/ UTs are motivated to contribute resources on NROER and create OERs for their own State/ UT. SWAYAM- The ‘Study Webs of Active Learning for Young Aspiring Minds’ (SWAYAM) is an integrated platform for online courses, using Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and covering school (9th to 12th) to Post Graduate Level. It offers online courses for students, teachers and teacher educators. SWAYAM PRABHA- A programme for utilization of satellite communication technologies for transmission of educational e-contents through 32 National Channels i.e. SWAYAM PRABHA DTH-TV has been launched. CBSE initiatives- SARANSH is a tool for comprehensive self review and analysis for CBSE affiliated schools and parents. It enables them to analyse students’ performance in order to take remedial measures. KVS initiatives- ICT Skills are imparted in all the Kendriya Vidyalayas to the students of classes III to XII Operation Digital Board- An initiative has been taken by Government of India to provide interactive digital boards to nearly 15 lakh classrooms across the country for 9th standard to post graduate level, where they can receive lectures from best teachers/professors and access quality e-content, in order to enhance overall learning process and experience of the students. GS-3 Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme (Topic: Changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth) In order to facilitate import of capital goods for producing quality goods and services and enhance India’s manufacturing competitiveness, the Central Government has been implementing a Scheme called the Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) Scheme under the Foreign Trade Policy for manufacturer exporters with or without supporting manufacturer(s), merchant exporters tied to supporting manufacturer(s) and service providers. Features of the scheme Under the Scheme, EPCG Authorizations are issued with actual user condition and import validity of 24 months to import capital goods (except those specified in negative list) for pre-production, production and post-production at zero customs duty, and subject to fulfilment of specific Export Obligation equivalent to 6 times of duties, taxes and cess saved on capital goods, to be fulfilled in 6 years from date of issue of Authorization. In addition, the Authorization holder is required to fulfil Average Export Obligation achieved by him in the preceding three licensing years for the same and similar products. However, if minimum 75% of specific Export Obligation and 100% of Average Export Obligation is fulfilled within half the original export obligation period, remaining export obligation can be condoned. Further, in case of indigenous sourcing of capital goods and for exports of Green Technology products, specific EO is only 75%. For Units located in North East Region and Jammu & Kashmir, specific EO is only 25%. Presently, capital goods imported for physical exports are also exempt from IGST and Compensation Cess up to 31.03.2019. What is EPCG? EPCG is a zero duty scheme which allows the import of capital goods such as machinery for preproduction, production and post-production of export items. The duty free import by an exporter has to be paid back in the form of an export obligation equivalent to 6 times of duty saved on capital goods imported under EPCG scheme, to be fulfilled in 6 years reckoned from Authorization issue-date. EPCG Scheme Eligibility – Applicant Manufacturer exporters with or without supporting manufacturer(s), merchant exporters tied to supporting manufacturer(s) and service providers are eligible under the EPCG scheme. EPCG scheme also covers Common Service Provider (CSP). Report of Shekatkar Committee (Topic: Security challenges and their management in border areas) The Committee of Experts (CoE) constituted by the Ministry of Defence under the chairmanship of Lt. Gen (Retd) DB Shekatkar to recommend measures to enhance combat capability and rebalance defence expenditure of the armed forces, submitted its report. The Report was taken up by the Ministry of Defence to frame key action points and roadmap for implementation. Measures as recommended by the Committee and taken up for implementation include: Optimization of Signals Establishments to include Radio Monitoring Companies, Corps Air Support Signal Regiments, Air Formation Signal Regiments, Composite Signal Regiments and merger of Corps Operating and Engineering Signal Regiments. Restructuring of repair echelons in the Army to include Base Workshops, Advance Base Workshops and Static / Station Workshops in the field Army. Redeployment of Ordnance echelons to include Vehicle Depots, Ordnance Depots and Central Ordnance Depots apart from streamlining inventory control mechanisms. Better utilization of Supply and Transportation echelons and Animal Transport units. Closure of Military Farms and Army Postal Establishments in peace locations. Enhancement in standards for recruitment of clerical staff and drivers in the Army. Improving the efficiency of the National Cadet Corps. About NCC The National Cadet Corps is a voluntary organization which recruits cadets from high schools, colleges and universities all over India. The Cadets are given basic military training in small arms and parades. The officers and cadets have no liability for active military service once they complete their course. The NCC is the world's largest uniformed youth organization. Its motto is 'Unity and Discipline'. GSAT-31 launched successfully (Topic: science and technology) India’s latest communication satellite, GSAT-31 was successfully launched from the Spaceport in French Guiana. GSAT-31 has a unique configuration of providing flexible frequency segments and flexible coverage. The satellite will provide communication services to Indian mainland and islands About GSAT satellites GSAT satellites are India's indigenously developed communications satellites, used for digital audio, data and video broadcasting. The GSAT series of geosynchronous satellites is a system developed by ISRO with an objective to make India self-reliant in broadcasting services. The repertoire of 10 GSAT satellites, a total of 168 transponders (out of which 95 transponders are leased out to provide services to the broadcasters) in the C, Extended C and Ku-bands provides services to telecommunications, television broadcasting, weather forecasting, disaster warning and search and rescue operations. Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog (Topic: animal-rearing) Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for establishment of Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog for Conservation protection and development of cows and their progeny. Impact: The setting up of Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog will lead to conservation, protection and development of cattle population in the country including development and conservation of indigenous breeds. It will result in increased growth of livestock sector which is more inclusive, benefitting women, and small and marginal farmers. The Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog will work in collaboration with Veterinary, Animal Sciences or Agriculture University or departments or organizations of the Central/State Government engaged in the task of research in the field of breeding and rearing of cow, organic manure, biogas etc. Background: The creation of Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog for the conservation, protection and development of cows and their progeny. It will provide the policy framework and direction to the cow conservation and development programmes in the country and for ensuring proper implementation of laws with respect to the welfare of cows. It is in pursuance of the announcement of setting up of the Aayog in the Union Budget 2019-20. About Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog Under this scheme, the government will give Kisan credit card for the purpose of promoting animal husbandry, in which the cow cohort will be given 500 rupees per month. The Rashtriya Kamdhenu Aayog would be responsible for effective implementation of laws and welfare schemes for cows. Banking Sector Reforms (Topic: Economic development) To strengthen banks and foster a culture of clean and responsible banking, the Government has followed a comprehensive 4 R’s approach of recognition, resolution, recapitalization and reforms. A number of steps have been taken to promote the functioning of PSBs, including, inter alia, the following: Reforms, as per the PSB Reforms Agenda adopted by PSBs- Increasing access to banking services from home and mobile through digital banking and enhanced customer ease. Enabling easy accessibility to senior citizens and the differently-abled, through online update of pension life certificates, etc. Instituting efficient practices for effective coordination in large consortium loans by restricting number of lenders in consortium and by adoption of standard operating procedures, Strict segregation of pre- and post-sanction roles and responsibilities for enhanced accountability. Ring-fencing of cash flows and use of technology and analytics for comprehensive diligence across data sources for prudent lending. Institution of transparent and robust one-time settlement mechanism with automated escalation and monitoring. Monitoring of loans above ₹250 crore through specialised agencies for effective vigil, Establishment of stressed asset management verticals in banks for focused recovery and timely and effective management of stressed accounts. Institution and implementation of a risk appetite framework for a structured approach to manage, measure and control risk and check aggressive and imprudent lending. Monetisation of non-core assets for strengthening capital base, Enabling faster bill realisation for MSMEs through discounting by banks on the Trade Receivables electronic Discounting System (TReDS), Enabling proactive reach-out to borrowers and stepping-up cluster-based financing to MSMEs, and Developing human resources by rewarding top performers and enabling specialisation through job-families, and role based learning for executives. IBA issues advisory guidelines on Kisan Credit Card/crop loans (Topic e-technology in the aid of farmers) In yet another move to provide direct benefit to farmers and ease the pressure on them, the Indian Banking Association issued advisory guidelines requesting banks to waive off the processing, documentation, inspection, ledger folio charges and all other service charges for Kisan Credit Card /crop loans upto 3 Lakhs. Small and Marginal farmers in India In India, Land Holding pattern is dominated by Small and Marginal farmers (SMF) category Roughly 85 per cent of the total operational holding I the country (about 43 percent of the gross cropped area) are in the SMF category. There are around 21.6 crore small and marginal farmers (or 4.3 crore families). Providing timely and affordable credit to this resource constrained group is the key to attaining inclusive growth. The small and Marginal farmers are the most affected during times of floods, droughts, and other natural calamities. As per parliamentary standing committee on Agriculture the losses due to climate change account for overall GDP loss of 1.5% of agriculture economy. The instability in income of the farmers due to various types of risks involved in production, low bargaining power, etc, add more distress to the already affected farmers. Kisan Credit Card and IBA guidelines The Kisan Credit Card Scheme aims at providing adequate and timely credit support from the banking system under a single window with flexible and simplified procedure to the farmers to meet the short term credit requirements for cultivation of crops, investment credit requirements for agriculture and allied activities and other needs. In this context, it was learnt that some of scheduled commercial banks are collecting a nominal amount of service charges towards processing, documentation, inspection, etc. for agriculture loans. However, some of the banks are collecting service charges which are at a bit higher. This is not irrespective of whether the loan is sanctioned or not. This often acts as a deterrent for the farmers to approach the banks for loans. About KCC Kisan Credit Card (KCC) is a credit delivery mechanism that is aimed at enabling farmers to have quick and timely access to affordable credit. It was launched in 1998 by the Reserve Bank of India and NABARD. The scheme aims to reduce farmer dependence on the informal banking sector for credit – which can be very expensive and suck them into a debt spiral. The card is offered by cooperative banks, regional rural banks and public sector banks. Please Note: First State Level Awareness Programme on Agri Export Policy Held in Pune: Agriculture Export Policy has been prepared jointly with the state governments and will be implemented by the concerned state agriculture and horticulture departments. Gems and Jewellery Domestic Council: The Government is supporting the process of setting up of Domestic Council for Gems and Jewellery, to encourage and boost domestic gems and jewellery sector. An Ad-hoc National Committee of Domestic Council for Gems and Jewellery consisting 14 Members representing various associations of Gems and Jewellery Sector has been constituted to draft Memorandum and Article of Association and other Rules/Bye-laws of the Domestic Council. Data-Adequacy Status for Indian Companies: A Data Security Expert Group was set up by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MEITY) to resolve the Information Technology and Information Technology Enabled Services (IT/ ITES) business issues relating to Data adequacy/ security with the European Union. Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS): Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports is implementing Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) within overall ambit of National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) for providing financial assistance to elite athletes included in TOPS for their customized training in world class training institutes/academies within the country and abroad. FDI Policy on E-Commerce: In order to ensure due compliance of the FDI policy on e-Commerce, certain conditions are included. These conditions are: An entity having equity participation by e-commerce marketplace entity or its group companies, or having control on its inventory by e-commerce marketplace entity or its group companies, will not be permitted to sell its products on the platform run by such marketplace entity. e-Commerce marketplace entity will not mandate any seller to sell any product exclusively on its platform only. National Virtual Library of India (NVLI): is to facilitate creation of a comprehensive database on digital resources of India on information about India in an open access environment under the Ministry of Culture. Salient features of NVLI are: Federated searching through multilingual user interfaces. Virtual learning environment E-Governance platform facilitating data analytics Multilingual searching and retrieval on ontology/thesaurus based. Mashoka5 – Mobile App Launched: The mobile app for booking of Bungalow No.5, Ashoka Road, which has been launched. This app does away with the requirement of the physical presence of the applicant at the Directorate for either submitting form/getting a challan for making payments or obtaining authority slip. One of the focus areas of developing this app is reducing the decision-making layers to minimum while allowing the faster means of information sharing/dissemination and simplification of the procedure. Draft National River Ganga Bill, 2018: Provides for the constitution of Ganga Protection Corps as an armed forces of the union. The Ganga Protection Corps is proposed to be empowered to arrest or caused to be arrested for offence under the Act, and to take the person to the nearest police station. Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana: Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has introduced a scheme for providing physical aids and Assisted Living Devices for Senior Citizens belonging to BPL category named “Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY)” . National Institutes of Food Technology, Enterpreneurship and Management Bill, 2019: The objective of the bill is to confer the status of Institutions of National Importance to National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management (NIFTEM) at Kundli, Haryana, and the Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology (IIFPT) at Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. Benefits: The legislation would provide for functional autonomy to the institutes to design and develop courses, undertake research activities and leverage enhanced status in their academic pursuits, so that they become world class institutes. The institutes would implement the reservation policy of the Government and would also undertake special outreach activities for the benefits of concerned stakeholders. It would enable the institutes to provide world class teaching and research experience by adopting innovative practices. K. Exercise ‘CUTLASS EXPRESS – 19’ : The aim of the exercise was to improve law enforcement capacity, promote regional security and progress inter-operability between the armed forces of the participating nations for the purpose of interdicting illegal maritime activity in the Western Indian Ocean. New Scientific Standard of Kg: The prototype of one kilogram (NPK-57) is already available in India and placed at National Physical Laboratory, New Delhi as per the provisions made under the Legal Metrology (National Standards) Rules, 2011. There is no such proposal at present before the Government to achieve the new prototype of kilogram through physical constants. The previous definition of kilogram was based on the mass of the international prototype ‘kilogram’ which is an artefact, however, the new definition is based on physical constants of nature. The change is in the definition of kilogram and will not have any practical implications. Know My India Programme: It is a unique programme initiated by National Foundation for Communal Harmony (NFCH) to bring together financially assisted children of the Foundation from different States/Regions of the country to promote oneness, fraternity and national integration. The programme is all about familiarization with the environment, family life, social customs, etc. of the people living in different parts of the country; developing understanding of the common historical and cultural heritage of the country. About NFCH: The NFCH is an autonomous organization under the administrative control of the Ministry of Home Affairs. The main objective of the Foundation is to provide assistance to the children / youth rendered orphan / destitute in communal, caste, ethnic or terrorist violence for their rehabilitation besides promoting communal harmony and national integration through various activities. unified authority for regulating all financial services in IFSCs: Cabinet approves establishment of a unified authority for regulating all financial services in International Financial Services Centres (IFSCs) in India through International Financial Srvices Centres Authority Bill, 2019. About IFSCs An IFSC caters to customers outside the jurisdiction of the domestic economy. Such centres deal with flows of finance, financial products and services across borders. London, New York and Singapore can be counted as global financial centres. The first IFSC in India has been set up at GIFT City, Gandhinagar, Gujarat. Abolition of Institution of Income-Tax Ombudsman and Indirect Tax Ombudsman: The approval comes in the wake of alternative complaint redressal mechanisms chosen by public and the institution of Ombudsman could not prove to be more effective than regular existing parallel channels of grievance redressal, both the institutions of Income-Tax Ombudsman as well as Indirect Tax Ombudsman have been abolished. Background: The Institution of Income-Tax Ombudsman was created in the year 2003 to deal with grievances of public related to settlement of complaints relating to Income Tax. However, the Institution of Ombudsman failed to achieve its objectives. It was observed that institution of new complaints have in turn fallen to single digits. Also, tax payers started preferring alternate methods of grievance redressal like CPGRAMS (Centralized Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System), AaykarSevaKendras etc. further, it was also decided in 2011 to close vacant offices of Indirect Tax Ombudsman. Quotes: Vice President of India Shri. M. Venkaiah Naidu On education An ideal educational institution must focus on making a student into a holistic individuals by equipping them to face the challenges of life with equanimity and stability. Education should make students think innovatively and come out with bright, out-of-box solutions to overcome challenges. Educational institutions to employ counsellors to provide support and guidance to students during challenging times. Need to revamp our education system to improve standards and impart world class learning. Education must lay the foundation for developing a society that is strongly grounded in morals, ethics and value systems. President of India Shri. Ram Nath Kovind On justice The PIL tradition is an Indian contribution to the practice of law and the process of justice delivery. This has been admired by other democracies and other legal systems as well. The very definition of justice as well as the roads by which justice is reached have evolved and grown through the course of human history. Over three decades ago, Justice Bhagwati and his generation of jurists spread the horizons of justice. Today, at our stage of development, there are new challenges in the realisation of social and economic justice, and of climate and technology justice.

Feb 13, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 171

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 171 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Swachh Shakti’ It aims to bring in to focus the leadership role played by rural women in Swachh Bharat Mission Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation in association with the Govt. of Haryana is organizing the Swachh Shakti-2019 Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Tax Inspectors Without Borders (TIWB)’ It is an initiative by the World Customs Organization (WCO) It supports countries in building tax audit capacity Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) ‘Pusa Vivek QPM 9’ which was in news, is a hybrid Wheat Rice Maize Mustard Q.4) Where is ‘Ghost of Cassiopeia’ located? Atlantic Ocean Arctic Ocean South China Sea None of the above Q.5) ‘Palamau Tiger Reserve’ is located in which of the following states? Chhattisgarh Jharkhand Odisha Karnataka To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba

Feb 13, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 13th February 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 13th February 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) India inks contract for 72,000 assault rifles Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – India and US ties; Defence In news: Indian Army signed a contract with Sig Sauer of the U.S. for 72,400 SIG716 assault rifles for front-line soldiers deployed in operational areas. Of the 72,400 rifles, 66,400 are meant for the Army, 2,000 for the Navy and 4,000 for the Air Force. The new rifles will replace the Indian National Small Arms System (INSAS) rifles. Do you know? The Defence Ministry also issued the Expression of Interest (EoI) for a deal to buy 111 naval utility helicopters. This is the first project to be executed through the strategic partnership policy. Under this, the chosen Indian private company will team up with the Original Equipment Manufacturer to build the product in India. The EoI follows the Request for Information (RFI) and then detailed Request for Proposal (RFP). The copters will replace the ageing Chetak fleet. India, Maldives reverse visa stand-off Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – India and the World; International Relations In news: India and Maldives exchanged an agreement to facilitate visas for travel between the two countries in a number of categories. “Visa Facilitation Agreement” - This Agreement provides a very liberal visa regime for Maldivian nationals to visit India for tourism, business, education & medical purposes. It also makes it easier for Indians to travel to Maldives for business purposes. Medical visas will also be granted to attendants to accompany patients. The government has also agreed to grant visas for parents and other dependants to live in India while their children attend school here. Miscellaneous: 1. Rafale deal not on ‘better terms’ than UPA-era offer In news: Key findings of the ‘domain experts’ (senior Defence Ministry officials) on the Indian Negotiating Team (INT) The new Rafale deal for 36 flyaway aircraft (by current government) was not on “better terms” than the offer made by Dassault Aviation during the procurement process for 126 aircraft under the UPA government. Delivery schedule of even the first 18 of the 36 flyaway Rafale aircraft in the new deal was slower than the one offered for the 18 flyaway aircraft in the original procurement process. These findings are directly contrary to the two central claims made by the Indian government of a cheaper deal and faster delivery of fighter aircraft. Domain experts also registered serious concern over the Indian government’s acceptance of a ‘Letter of Comfort’ instead of a sovereign or government guarantee or bank guarantees and also acceptance of offset issues and Dassault Aviation’s restrictive trade practices. Commenting on the final €7.87 billion cost of the new Rafale deal, the domain experts stated that the final price offered by the French Government cannot be considered as ‘better terms’ compared to the MMRCA [medium multi-role combat aircraft] offer. 2. Gujjar stir for reservation Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Social/welfare issue; Reservation issue; Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. In news: The Gujjar community’s agitation in Rajasthan for 5% reservation in government jobs and education has created unrest in the state. The Gujjars were demanding a lower scheduled tribe status, instead of their current OBC (Other Backward Class) status. As government refused to yield, they started to agitate. Quota based reservations were introduced to bring about a change to those communities or caste who were deprived of growth opportunities. (especially SCs/STs) However, over the years, more and more castes have started demanding reservation, leading to violence and agitations. Examples – Gujjar Agitation; Jat Agitation; Patidar agitation 3. ‘95% of registered realty firms have no PAN’ Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy and issues related to it In news: Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) found that a whopping 95% of the real estate sector companies registered with the Registrar of Companies (RoC) did not have a permanent account number (PAN). CAG says I-T dept. has no mechanism to ensure all registered companies have PAN and file returns. (MAINS FOCUS) ENVIRONMENT/BIODIVERSITY TOPIC: General studies 2 Important International institutions, agencies and fora, their structure, mandate. Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment. Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. 14th CoP-CBD and Principle of ‘Commons’ Context: 14th CoP-CBD Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity was held at the Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt. (Nov 2018) Key focus – “How to govern biological resources (or biodiversity) at different levels for the world’s sustainable future?” Year 2018 marked the CBD’s 25th year of implementation. CBD reports and studies highlighted that – Humans have mismanaged biodiversity so badly that we have lost 60% of resources (which can never be recouped). Convention’s objectives of conservation, sustainable use and equitable sharing of benefits were being compromised, including by the parties themselves. Concept: Principle of ‘Commons’ For thousands of years, humans have considered natural resources and the environment as a global public good and communities across the world had carefully managed these resources using the principle of ‘Commons’. In simple terms, principle of ‘Commons’ deals with mindset that set of resources such as air, land, water and biodiversity do not belong to one community or individual, but to humanity. All developments that we see in the establishment of civilisations across the world as well as agricultural development feeding the world today are a result of such ‘Commons’ being managed by communities for centuries. However, then came the urge of those with money and power to privatise these resources for individual prosperity in the form of property management principles, intellectual property rights and others. Concept: Principle of sovereign rights over biodiversity Convention on Biological Diversity, a multi-lateral environmental agreement, provided legal certainty to countries through the principle of sovereign rights over biodiversity. Therefore, in one form, the CBD contributed to states now owning the resources, including their rights on use and management. Today, states control and manage biodiversity with strict oversight of who can use what and how. The intent of the CBD and having sovereign rights was to manage resources better. But the results of such management have been questionable. A key reason cited is that ‘Commons’ and common property resource management principles and approaches are ignored and compromised. Why ‘Principle of Commons’ is important? According to estimates, a third of the global population depends on ‘Commons’ for their survival. 65% of global land area is under ‘Commons’, in different forms. The significance of ‘Commons’ in supporting pollination and storing carbon cannot be overlooked. Importance of ‘Commons’ for India In India, the extent of ‘Common’ land constitutes around 15-25% of its total geographical area. ‘Common’-pool resources contribute $5 billion a year to the incomes of poor Indian households. Around 77% of India’s livestock is kept in grazing-based or extensive systems and dependent on ‘Commons’ pool resources. And 53% of India’s milk and 74% of its meat requirements are met from livestock kept in extensive ‘Common’ systems. ‘Commons’ as resources are not only relevant for rural communities but are now a major provider of livelihood options for both urban and peri-urban populations. Key concerns: Despite their significance, ‘Commons’ in India have suffered continued decline and degradation. National Sample Survey Office data show a 1.9% quinquennial rate of decline in the area of ‘Common’ lands. Micro studies show a much more rapid decline of 31-55% over 50 years, jeopardising the health of systemic drivers such as soil, moisture, nutrient, biomass and biodiversity, in turn aggravating food, fodder and water crises. As of 2013, India’s annual cost of environmental degradation has been estimated to be ₹3.75 trillion per year, i.e. 5.7% of GDP according to the World Bank. The way ahead: ‘Commons’ becoming uncommon is a major socio-political, economic and environmental problem. While the state can have oversight over resource management, but keeping people away from using and managing ‘Commons’ is against effective governance of ‘Commons’. The sovereign rights provided for, legally, under the CBD should not be misunderstood by the state as a handle to do away with ‘Commons’-based approaches to managing biodiversity, land, water and other resources. Rather State and international governing bodies should focus on how and why ‘Commons’ have been negatively impacted? What needs to be done to save the earth and people? There needs to be a review of current governance of biodiversity and natural resources. Connecting the dots: What are various resource management strategies? Discuss. Discuss the mandate and significance of Convention on Biological Diversity in managing biodiversity. ECONOMY TOPIC: General studies 3 Economic Development – Indian Economy and Issues relating to growth and development. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. The shape of the jobs crisis Key concerns: Job creation has slowed since 2011-12 2011-12 was the year of the last published National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) labour force survey. Labour Bureau annual survey (2015-16) data and Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) data, which has a sample size larger than the NSSO labour force surveys, has also highlighted high unemployment rate in India. Do you know? Both the surveys captures better data than NSSO as they cover rural and urban, and organised and unorganised sector employment. They also capture both the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation/National Pension Scheme (organised) as well as such employment as might be generated by Micro Units Development & Refinance Agency Ltd (MUDRA) loans or platform economy jobs. The latter two job sources were not being captured by the NSSO jobs data available. We can conclude that the jobs situation has turned grim since 2012. According to the leaked NSSO 2017-18 data – Open unemployment rate (which does not measure disguised unemployment and informal poor quality jobs) jumped to 6.1% in 2017-18 from 2.6% between 1977-78 and 2011-12. There was a sharp increase in the unemployment rate of the educated. Reasons for such high jump: More number of young people becoming educated. The expectation of such youth is for a urban, regular job in either industry or services, not in agriculture. Therefore, many remained unemployed and open unemployment rates increased. As open unemployment rates increased, more and more people got disheartened and fell out of the labour force; in other words, they stopped looking for work. Labour force participation rates (LFPR, i.e. those looking for work) for all ages, fell sharply from 43% in 2004-5 to 39.5% in 2011-12, to 36.9% in 2017-18. Therefore, number of youth who are NEETs: not in education, employment or training increased. They are a potential source of both our demographic dividend but also what is looking to be a mounting demographic disaster. Do you know? In the last 10-12 years, more young people have become educated. The tertiary education enrolment rate (for those in the 18-23 age group) rose from 11% in 2006 to 26% in 2016. The gross secondary (classes 9-10) enrolment rate for those in the 15-16 age groupshot up from 58% in 2010 to 90% in 2016. Also according to the leaked NSSO 2017-18 data – Between 2004-05 and 2011-12, as many as 7.5 million new non-agricultural jobs were being created every year. The unemployment rate was only 2.2%. The volume of open unemployment was almost constant (at around 10 million) until 2011-12, but it increased to 16.5 million by 2015-16. However, post 2011-12, non-agricultural jobs were less but the volume of open unemployment was high. This situation got worsened further by 2017-18. Number of workers in agriculture fell sharply but increased recently For an economy at India’s stage of development, an increase of workers in agriculture is a structural retrogression, in a direction opposite to the desired one. Between 2004-5 and 2011-12, the number of workers in agriculture fell sharply, which is good, for the first time in India’s economic history. However, after 2012, as non-agricultural job growth slowed, the number of youth in agriculture actually increased to 84.8 million till 2015-16 and even more since then. (As per CMIE data) These youth were better educated than the earlier cohort, but were forced to be in agriculture. Drop in manufacturing jobs Manufacturing jobs actually fell in absolute terms, from 58.9 million in 2011-12 to 48.3 million in 2015-16. (10.6 million over a four-year period) This is consistent with slowing growth in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), which consists of manufacturing, mining, and electricity. The IIP had sharply risen from 100 in 2004-5 to 172 by 2013-14 (in the 2004-5 series), but only rose from a base of 100 in 2011-12 in the later series to 107 in 2013-14, and to 125.3 in 2017-18. Exports fell after 2013 and barely recovered after that. Investment-to-GDP ratio also fell and still remaining well below 2013 levels. This holds for both private and public investment. Conclusion: The youth (“NEET” and unemployed) together constitute the potential labour force, which can be utilised to realise the demographic dividend in India. The number of new entrants into the labour force (especially educated entrants) will go on increasing until 2030. By 2040 our demographic dividend will be over. China managed to reduce poverty sharply by designing an employment strategy aligned to its industrial strategy. That is why it rode the wave of its demographic dividend. Unfortunately, India has neither an industrial policy nor an employment strategy, let alone the two being aligned. Policy makers should address the same at the earliest. India always boasts of having the youngest and largest working age population in the world. An inability to create jobs for them will prevent the country from reaping the much-touted demographic dividend. Hence it is necessary to ensure growth is job oriented, holistic and inclusive to make sustainable. Connecting the dots: Why unemployment will be the biggest challenge for policy makers in the next decade? Analyse. Also discuss the implications of a large unemployed youth population. India’s growth story has been marked by jobless growth in recent years. In this light, discuss the plausible reasons and measures of transformation from jobless to real growth. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Aichi target covers a strategic plan from 2011 – 2020. They are related to which of the following: Biodiversity Global warming and climate change Sustainable development Migration Q.2) Consider the below statements and identify the incorrect one: Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is not a legally binding convention. Cartagena Protocol deals with potential risks posed by living modified organisms resulting from modern biotechnology. Nagoya Protocol deals with fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resources. Gran Canaria Declaration deals with global strategy for plant conservation. Q.3) Which of the statements given below about Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) is/are correct? The objective of CBD are: conservation of biological diversity, sustainable use of its components, and fair and equitable sharing of benefits arising out of the use of genetic resources. It was adopted during the Earth Summit held in Rio de Janeiro in 1992. Under CBD, years 2001-2010 is considered as United Nations Decade on Biodiversity. Choose correct answer: 1 only 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.4) Which among the following are considered as the three Rio Conventions - derived directly from the 1992 Earth Summit? Convention on Biological Diversity Convention on the Prevention of Marine Pollution United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Convention on Wetlands or Ramsar Convention Choose the correct answer: 1, 3 and 4 1, 4 and 5 1, 2 and 4 1, 3 and 5 Q.5) Which among the following deals with ‘Access to Genetic Resources and the Fair and Equitable Sharing of Benefits Arising from their Utilization to the Convention on Biological Diversity’? Nagoya Protocol Cartagena Protocol Aichi declaration Basel Convention Q.6) The primary goals of Convention on Biological Diversity do not include – preventing anthropogenic interference conservation of biological diversity sustainable use of biological diversity fair and equitable sharing of the benefits Q.7) Consider the following statements with regard to Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) National Statistical Office(NSO) consists of CSO, NSSO and CMIE CMIE is under Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both None MUST READ Deadly brew: on illicit liquor deaths The Hindu Lessons of 1979 The Hindu Pseudo-social justice Indian Express The Confession Indian Express Who will pay for sops? Indian Express The young are talking back Indian Express

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