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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th December 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Doorstep delivery of public services scheme Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II - Governance In News The doorstep delivery of public services scheme is implemented by the administrative reforms department of the Delhi government. The scheme offers 100 government services at the homes of citizens, helping them avoid queues, touts, bribery and multiple visits to government offices. Under the scheme, citizens can call on the number — 1076 — to avail government services. After the call, a person will visit the citizen and collect documents required for the service and process the request. Citizens can book an appointment online through www.edistrict.delhigovt.nic.in Now there are three ways to get things done at the government offices in Delhi— By visiting government offices, where the success rate is 57% and 43% of the applications get rejected; By applying online, wherein 45% of the applications get cleared while 55% get rejected; and Doorstep delivery, where the success rate is 91% and only 9% of the applications get rejected The high success rate in doorstep delivery is due to mobile Sahayaks’s intervention who ensure that all documents are complete and attached in the right order along with the applications. Fog Pass Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III –Science & Technology In News The South Central Railway (SCR) has started supplying Fog Pass devices, a GPS-based portable equipment, to loco pilots. During the winter, when visibility is low due to fog, loco pilots face a tough challenge of ensuring safe operations of trains. They are forced to restrict the speed of the train as they are unable to sight signals The entire data of a particular section such as location of signals, stations, level-crossing gates, warning boards, curves and gradients, are mapped with GPS and fed into the device. A fog pass device displays details of at least three oncoming landmarks along with distance from the current location. An audio alert is given, around 500 metres before any approaching landmark Fog device helps in alerting the crew about upcoming landmarks or structures, during foggy weather, through audio and visual indications. Accessible India campaign Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I – Society In News Accessible India campaign aims at making public spaces friendly for persons with disabilities. The deadline for the government’s Accessible India campaign has been extended to March 2020 due to “slow progress,” the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment has informed the Lok Sabha The original deadlines under the Accessible India campaign were July 2016 for conducting an accessibility audit of 25-50 of the most important government buildings in 50 cities and making them completely accessible and March 2018. Under the Rights of PwD Act, 2016, all existing and new public buildings have to follow the accessibility standardsnotified on June 15, 2017. The existing buildings were given five years to comply. National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Disaster Management In News The Ministry of Environment has set up the National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM) at It has been setup to undertake studies and research in the area of Coastal Zone Management including coastal resources and environment. The aims and Objectives of the Center are: Strive for being a World Class Knowledge Institution related to coastal zones, environment, resources and processes, To promote integrated and sustainable management of the coastal and marine areas in India for the benefit and wellbeing of the traditional coastal and island communities, and Advice the Union and State Governments and other associated stakeholder(s) on policy, and scientific matters related to Integrated Coastal Zone Management (ICZM). For the first time, Integrated Island Management plans including holistic island development plans have been prepared by NCSCM for implementation by coastal States/ UTs. (MAINS FOCUS) SOCIETY TOPIC:General Studies 1: Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies. Andhra Pradesh Disha Bill, 2019 Context: The Andhra Pradesh Legislative Assembly passed the Andhra Pradesh Disha Bill, 2019 (Andhra Pradesh Criminal Law (Amendment) Act 2019). Disha is the name given to the veterinarian who was raped and murdered in Hyderabad. Highlights: The bill provides for awarding death sentence for offences of rape and gangrape and expediting trials of such cases to within 21 days. At present, provision for punishing an offender in a rape case is a fixed jail term leading to life imprisonment or the death sentence. Completion of investigation in seven days and trial in 14 working days, where there is adequate conclusive evidence. Reducing the total judgment time to 21 days from the existing four months. The existing judgment period as per the Nirbhaya Act, 2013 and Criminal Amendment Act, 2018 is 4 months (two months of investigation period and two months of trial period) The AP Disha Act also prescribes life imprisonment for other sexual offences against children and includes Section 354 F and 354 G in IPC. Two years imprisonment for the first conviction and four years for second and subsequent convictions for cases of social media harassment. The Government of Andhra Pradesh prescribes life imprisonment for other sexual offences against children. At present,in cases of molestation/sexual assault on children under the POCSO Act, 2012, punishment ranges from a minimum of three years to maximum of seven years of imprisonment. Andhra Pradesh government will establish, operate and maintain a register in electronic form, to be called the ‘Women & Children Offenders Registry’. This registry will be made public and will be available to law enforcement agencies. National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 2017 report: A total of 3,59,849 cases were reported against women in 2017.( 2016, 3.38 lakh , 3.2 lakh cases 2015) The number of cases reported has increased. Uttar Pradesh has again topped the list with 56,011 cases of crime against women, followed by Maharashtra with 31,979 cases and West Bengal at 30,002. Crimes against women constitute murder, rape, dowry death, suicide abetment, acid attack, cruelty against women and kidnapping. ‘Cruelty by husband or his relatives’ accounts for 27.9 per cent of the crimes against women. ‘Assault on women with intent to outrage her modesty’ comprise 21.7 per cent, followed by ‘kidnapping and abduction of women’ with 20.5 per cent and ‘rape’ with 7.0 per cent of reported cases. Rape data: ‘Rape’ stands with 7.0 per cent of reported cases. A total of 32,559 rapes were reported in 2017 in India. Madhya Pradesh has recorded the highest number of rape cases at 5,562 cases being reported in 2017. Uttar Pradesh is second to MP. Delhi, saw a decline in reporting of rape cases, in 2017, 13,076 were reported, which is the lowest in the last three years. 1 percent cases the accused were known to the victims. Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura can be seen as moderately safer than other states as they recorded the lowest number of cases. Conclusion: Make the criminal justice system tougher on an offender committing sexual crimes against women and children. Connecting the dots: Don’t you think acts of sexual violence are deeply traumatic for survivors, and that it takes great courage and faith in the system to report them? INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian Diaspora. Biggest parliamentary majority for Boris Johnson ( BREXIT) Context: Britain’s Prime Minister Boris Johnson has won the biggest parliamentary majority Prime Minister has promised to quickly push through Parliament the Withdrawal Agreement giving consent to his Brexit deal. What next? Johnson’s Withdrawal Agreement Bill (WAB) will be introduced within days They will have until the deadline of January 31 to get the Bill through both Houses of Parliament. Once Parliament has passed the Bill, the European Parliament will need to ratify the Brexit deal at its end. That done, Britain will be out of the EU. A British delegation will thereafter begin talks on a trade deal that will define the UK’s future relationship with the EU. Separate delegations will begin talks on trade deals with other countries as well, including India Brexit: Brexit – British exit – refers to the UK leaving the EU. Brexit is the scheduled withdrawal of the United Kingdom (UK) from the European Union (EU). Following a June 2016 referendum, in which 51.9% of participating voters voted to leave, the UK government formally announced the country’s withdrawal in March 2017, starting a two-year process that was due to conclude with the UK withdrawing on 29 March 2019. As the UK parliament thrice voted against the negotiated withdrawal agreement, that deadline has been extended twice, and is currently 31 October 2019. The ‘Benn Act’ that passed in Parliament requires the government to seek a third extension if no agreement is reached before 19 October. What is the European Union? The EU is an economic and political union involving 28 European countries. It allows free trade and free movement of people to live and work in whichever country they choose. The UK joined in 1973 (when it was known as the European Economic Community). If the UK leaves, it would be the first member What after Brexit? EU will start carrying out checks on British goods. This could lead to delays at ports, such as Dover. Some fear that this could lead to traffic bottlenecks, disrupting supply routes and damaging the economy. If the pound falls sharply in response to no deal and there are significant delays at ports, like Dover, it could affect the price and availability of some foods. There are also concerns over potential shortages of medicines. Positive effects of Brexit in India: To reset legal terms: Brexit is an opportunity for India to reset the legal terms of its trade with the UK and EU, at the multilateral level, and through free trade agreements. Students friendly: Before Brexit, British universities were forced to offer scholarships and subsidies to the citizens of the UK and EU. Brexit frees up funds for the other students and more Indian students might be able to get scholarships. Increases tourism: Reduction in pound value will reduce travelling cost to the UK and will make it a good travel destination. Huge investment: Brexit will help strengthen our ties with Britain because India’s focus on innovation and entrepreneurship still makes it an attractive destination for outsourcing and investment. Goods and services: According to the UK’s Department for International Trade (DIT) figures, total trade in goods and services between the UK and India was 18 billion pounds in 2017, a 15 per cent increase from 2016. Current account deficit: Lower commodity prices, crude oil prices may help narrowing current account deficit (CAD) Trading partners: The UK and the EU are losing trading partners in the process. So they will both be looking for replacements. Here, India can play a crucial role. We may see enhanced cooperation in segments like technology, cyber security, defence production and finance. Negative effects of Brexit in India: Short term effects: Automobile, Pharmacy and IT might be the most affected. NASSCOM has predicted that the effect of Brexit will be felt on the $108 Billion Indian IT sector in the short term. Automobile industry: In the automobile industry, Brexit may lead to reduction in sales and companies that derive good revenues of profits from Britain could get hurt majorly. Disruptions: Indian companies would need to recalibrate European operations, like setting up an additional operating company within European Union. This means short term disruptions will have a financial impact, as also take up management time. Immigration: Because of the large number of immigrants from EU, UK has restricted immigrants from other parts of the world, which had an impact on Indians. Restrictions: Post Brexit, immigration into UK of Indians may not become easier as the UK wants to place quantitative restrictions on total number of immigrants, and only a few Indians with special skills may find it easier to work in the UK. Conclusion India should re-negotiate with the UK and EU the World Trade Organization Schedules of Concessions, for both goods and services, should resume its FTA discussions with the EU, and should prepare to launch FTA talks with the UK. Connecting the dots: Do you think UK should come back into the EU after leaving? (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 National Centre for Sustainable Coastal Management (NCSCM)  It has been set up at Vishakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh For the first time, Integrated Island Management plans including holistic island development plans have been prepared by NCSCM for implementation by coastal States/ UTs Which of the 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 Accessible India Campaign It is being implemented by Ministry of Labour in collaboration with NITI Aayog It aims at making public spaces friendly for persons with disabilities. 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 Fog Pass It is a GPS based Portable equipment being provided to Loco Pilots It is helps in alerting the crew of train about upcoming landmarks or structures, during foggy weather, through audio and visual indications 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 Doorstep Delivery of Public Services Scheme of Delhi Government Itis made available to only people who are below poverty line. The high success rate in doorstep delivery is due to mobile Sahayaks’s intervention who ensure that all documents are complete and attached in the right order along with the applications Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 12 DEC 2019 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 B 3 C 4 A 5 D MUST READ The day of Boris The Hindu Twin troubles The Hindu A new Britain IE Improving Bankruptcy and Insolvency Code IE

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 13th December 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) V.S. Sirpurkar Commission Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II - Polity In News The Supreme Court set up an inquiry commission led by its former judge, Justice V.S. Sirpurkar, to probe the circumstances of the police ‘encounter’ killing of four persons accused in the gang-rape and murder of a veterinarian in Hyderabad. The commission will sit in Hyderabad and has 6 months to complete investigation The apex court has, meanwhile, stayed the proceedings in the Telangana High Court and the NHRC into the incident. The four accused were taken to the scene of the crime around 60 km from Hyderabad in the early hours of December 6 for a re-construction of crime scene. Two petitions were filed in the Supreme Court claiming that the alleged encounter was "fake" and that investigating agency like police has no right to punish any accused without due process of law. Pradhan MantriUjjwalaYojana (PMUY) - Diversion of LPG Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II - Governance In News The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, in a report on the Pradhan MantriUjjwalaYojana (PMUY), has highlighted the risk of diversion of domestic LPG cylinders for commercial use,  PMUY Objective: Providing clean-cooking fuel to the poor households, which are otherwise vulnerable to health hazards associated with indoor air pollution(which annually causes 10 lakh deaths in India) It is implemented by Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas through its Oil Marketing Companies (i.e., IOC, BPCL and HPCL) and their distributors network. As on 31 March 2019, the oil marketing companies had issued 7.19 crore connections, which is about 90% of the target of 8 crore connections to be achieved till March 2020. Some of the findings of the CAG report are: 1.98 lakh beneficiaries had an average annual consumption of more than 12 cylinders.The CAG said this level of consumption seemed improbable in view of the BPL (below poverty line) status of such beneficiaries. To rule out existing LPG connections in beneficiaries’ household, de-duplication was to be carried out based on Aadhaar of all family members. Data analysis also revealed that 8.59 lakh connections were released to beneficiaries who were minor as per the SECC-2011 data, which was in violation of PMUY guidelines and LPG Control Order, 2000. It also exposed a mismatch in the name of 12.46 lakh beneficiaries between the PMUY database and SECC-2011 data. The audit also highlighted the delay of more than 365 days in the installation of 4.35 lakh connections against the stipulated time period of seven days. IBM GRAF Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III –Science & Technology In News International technology companyIBM plans to make a high-resolution weather forecast model that will also rely on user-generated data to improve the accuracy of forecasts available in India. IBM GRAF, as the forecast system is called, can generate forecasts at a resolution of 3 kilometres. This is a significantly higher resolution than the 12-kilometre models used by the India Meteorological Department to generate forecasts. For its forecasts, IBM relies on a global network of sensors — automatic weather station, data bouys and barometric pressure data from cellphones of users who’ve downloaded the application.  Weather forecasts will be availableto individuals for free download and can be used by farmers. A study by IBM found that 72% Indians believed that the local economy had been disrupted by a severe weather event in the past year and 89% were concerned that climate change could negatively impact the economy. Unique Barcoding Software- Trakea Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Science & Technology In News Haryana Police has adopted a unique barcoding software — Trakea — to ensure that thousands of forensic reports that form the backbone of the criminal investigation system and subsequent trials in the courts of law, are not tampered with. Essentially, it is a forensic evidence management system that helps in automation of the entire procedure, right from the stage when forensic experts collect vital samples from the scene of crime to conducting analysis of the samples, followed by tracking casewise forensic reports electronically through barcodes. Even the selection of forensic teams is done randomly through this software. Due to the unique barcoding, only the authorised investigating officers and forensic science experts shall be able to track the crime exhibits and scientific examination reports, reducing the chances of tampering/leakage of the report at any stag Also, there will be no case details mentioned on the crime exhibits/samples/parcels except the unique bar code, that can only be read through the biometric system The roadmap for the future includes the expansion of the software on an app-based android platform for real-time online reporting of crime scene investigation visitsand its integration with the judicial system to reduce time lags and the chances of malpractices even at later stages The software was originally designed by a prisoner who was lodged in Bhondsi jail for 13 months. A software engineer by profession, the man was facing charges of having murdered his wife, but was ultimately acquitted by the trial court. Rare Earths Part of: GS Prelims and GS-I – Geography and GS-II- International Affairs In News The United States Army plans to fund the construction of a Rare Earths processing facility to secure the domestic supply of minerals that are used to make military weapons and electronics This will be the first financial investment by the US military into commercial-scale Rare Earths production since the Manhattan Project to build the first atomic bomb during World War II. The decision comes after China threatened to stop exporting Rare Earth materials to the US amid the ongoing trade war between the countries Rare Earth Elements or Rare Earth Metals are a set of 17 chemical elements in the periodic table — the 15 lanthanides, plus scandium and yttrium, which tend to occur in the same ore deposits as the lanthanides, and have similar chemical properties. These elements are important in technologies of consumer electronics, computers and networks, communications, clean energy, advanced transportation, healthcare, environmental mitigation, and national defence, among others. Scandium is used in televisions and fluorescent lamps, and yttrium is used in drugs to treat rheumatoid arthritis and cancer. Cerium, the most abundant Rare Earth element, is essential to NASA’s Space Shuttle Programme The estimated size of the Rare Earth sector is between $10 billion and $15 billion. About 100,000-110,000 tonnes of Rare Earth elements are produced annually around the world. China’s Rare Earths deposits account for 80% of identified global reserves Miscellaneous  Lotus emblem on passports Opposition has questioned the government over replacement of 'Lion' with 'Lotus' symbol on Indian passports.The lotus symbol was printed inside a rectangle on the page near passport officer's signature and seal Ministry of External Affairs said that it this symbol is our national flower and was part of the enhanced security features to identify fake passports. These security features have been introduced as part of the International Civil Aviation Organisation guidelines The MEA said the measure would involve the use of other national symbols as well on rotation. (MAINS FOCUS) ECONOMY TOPIC:General Studies 3: changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth New insolvency Bill (Inslovancy and Bankruptsy Code Amendment Bill 2019) [caption id="attachment_54778" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 13th December 2019[/caption] SRC: LEX Context: The Union cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cleared amendments to the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC)  Why Amendment? To ease the insolvency resolution process ( streamlining of the insolvency resolution process) Features:  The licenses, permits, concessions and clearances cannot be terminated or suspended during the moratorium period for the corporate debtors Bill seeks to protect last-mile funding  to corporate debtors to prevent their insolvency, in case the company goes into corporate insolvency resolution process or liquidation. Successful bidders will be provided more immunity against any risk of criminal proceedings for offences committed by previous promoters of companies concerned.   Cabinet approved Partial Credit Guarantee Scheme for purchase of high-rated pooled assets from financially sound non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) - also known as shadow banks - by state-run banks. Easier lending rules are aimed at enabling NBFCs to get better access to funds. NBFCs have been key drivers of lending growth in India, with their consolidated balance sheet worth Rs 28.8 lakh crore ($400 billion) in 2018-19, according to RBI data The bill also proposes a threshold for financial creditors to prevent frivolous triggering of corporate insolvency.( bankruptcy is not invoked for small amounts) Replaces laws such as the Sick Industrial Companies Act (SICA Act) and the Securitisation and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Securities Interest Act (SARFAESI Act), shifting the control of recovery process to creditors from borrowers. Esp for Real estate New threshold for allowing home buyers and certain category of financial creditors for initiating corporate insolvency resolution plan (CIRP).  It has been stipulated that at least 100 home buyers or 10 per cent of home buyers in a project, whichever is lower, are required for moving an insolvency petition against real estate developer Do you know? Last mile financing: is a mode of funding normally used for unlocking projects that have come to a halt due to some reason which commonly includes cash being tied up in escrow accounts.  Last mile financing is increasingly becoming popular as an option for developers that have exhausted other funding options towards the closing phase of a project already under-way. [caption id="attachment_54779" align="aligncenter" width="294"] Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 13th December 2019[/caption] Src: NAPKIN Finance Merits: Approval by the cabinet to provide immunity to successful bidders under IBC is a great boost to IBC  This is a positive and timely step and will increase confidence among prospective buyers of stressed assets This is expected to incentivise the provision of last mile funding to companies to prevent their insolvency, whilst at the same time provide such creditors a fall back protection of priority of payment should the company become insolvent. The amendments are aimed at providing more protection to bidders participating in the recovery proceedings and in turn boosting investor confidence in the country's financial system. Boosts Investment in financially-distressed sectors. Strengthens  the country's financial sector, marred by huge bad assets and bank frauds, to support economic growth Way forward: Debts that would be eligible for this priority are to be notified. Such debt will have priority of payment in both resolution and liquidation processes under the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code. Criticisms: Cross border insolvency framework did not make it to the Bill. Conclusions: This will help companies that need last mile funding to access a wider pool of capital that caters to this requirement and should also enable such funding on competitive terms. Connecting the dots: Do you think NBFCs have been key drivers of lending growth in India? PARLIAMENT TOPIC: General Studies 2: Parliament and State Legislatures - structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. Parliament passes( 126th Amendment) bill to extend SC-ST reservation quota Context: Parliament recently passed a Constitution amendment bill to extend quota to SCs and STs in LokSabha and state assemblies by another 10 years. Govt also asserted that the Central government will never stop the reservation system  Also Revoked  the provision for nomination of Anglo-Indians to the LokSabha and 14 state Assemblies The bill would now be sent to the states for ratification by 50 per cent of the assemblies before it comes into force. Background Reservation for members of Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs), given for the past 70 years in the LokSabha and state assemblies, is due to end on January 25, 2020.  The reservation for Anglo-Indians in the form of "nomination" is set to expire on January 25 2020  as the bill does not extend the facility to the community. Amendment of the Constitution Amending the Constitution of India is the process of making changes to the nation's fundamental law or supreme law. The procedure of amendment in the constitution is laid down in Part XX (Article 368) of the Constitution of India which ensures the sanctity of the Constitution of India and keeps a check on arbitrary power of the Parliament of India. There have been conflicts between the Supreme Court and Parliament, where Parliament wants to exercise discretionary use of power to amend the constitution while the Supreme Court wants to restrict that power.  This has led to the laying down of various doctrines; the most famous among them is the Basic structure doctrine as laid down by the Supreme Court in the case of Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala. Procedure An amendment of the Constitution can be initiated only by the introduction of a Bill in either House of Parliament.  The Bill must then be passed in each House by a majority of the total membership of that House and by a majority of not less than two-thirds of the members of that House present and voting.(special majority) There is no provision for a joint sitting in case of disagreement between the two Houses.  The Bill, passed by the required majority, is then presented to the President who shall give his assent to the Bill. If the amendment seeks to make any change in any of the provisions mentioned in the provision to article 368, it must be ratified by the Legislatures of not less than one-half of the States.  Although there is no prescribed time limit for ratification, it must be completed before the amending Bill is presented to the President for his assent Do you know? Parliament is free to enact any number of constitutional amendments in any given year. Although Parliament must preserve the basic framework of the Constitution, there is no other limitation placed upon the amending power, meaning that there is no provision of the Constitution that cannot be amended. Scheduled Castes (SCs) and Scheduled Tribes (STs) are among the most disadvantaged socio-economic groups in India. Hence, the Government of India has enacted progressive legislation, programmes and schemes for the development and empowerment of the SCs and STs.  Article 366(2) of the Constitution Of India states: “An Anglo-Indian means a person whose father or any of whose other male progenitors in the male line is or was of European descent but who is domiciled within the territory of India and is or was born within such territory of parents habitually resident therein and not established there for temporary purposes only…” Connecting the dots: Do you think Supreme Court needs to decide whether ‘creamy layer’ norms can be extended to SCs & STs ? (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 Pradhan MantriUjjwalaYojana(PMUY) The scheme was launched in May 2016 to safeguard the health of women and children by providing them with clean cooking fuel. It is being implemented by Ministry of Women and Child Development Which of the 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 IBM GRAF It is a Weather forecast system which can generate forecasts at a resolution of 50 kilometres. It will rely on user-generated data like from user’s phone data to improve the accuracy of forecasts available in India. 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 Gangetic dolphins They have been declared as the National Aquatic Animal of India. It is essentially blind and thus hunt by using ultrasonic sounds. 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 Trakea Itis a forensic evidence management system which aims at ensuring security and a tamperproof tracking system of forensic reports It is developed by Karnataka Police which is the first state in the country to have such unique barcoding system to make forensic reports tamperproof. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements about Rare Earth Metals These elements are important in technologies of consumer electronics, computers and networks, communications, clean energy, advanced transportation & healthcare. Cerium, the most abundant Rare Earth element, is used in NASA’s Space Shuttle Programme. China’s Rare Earths deposits account for 80% of identified global reserves Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 and 2only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 ANSWERS FOR 12 DEC 2019 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 A 2 A 3 C 4 C 5 B MUST READ In the name of a majority The Hindu Not many lessons learnt from water planning failures The Hindu Let CAB Not Add To Societal Strife ET Welcome Move to Strengthen IBC ET Citizenship Bill makes distinctions that are reasonable, does not violate Article 14 IE

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RSTV IAS UPSC – Draft Seeds Bill, 2019

Draft Seeds Bill, 2019 Archives TOPIC: General Studies 3 Agriculture In News: Availability of good quality seeds to farmers is a necessary condition for boosting agricultural output. Seeds occupy a peculiar position in agriculture. They are at the root of big policy making, scaled agricultural outputs, while also at the top of discourses on food security, livelihood and innovation. They may seem to strengthen the quality food policy, but are integral to farmers. The draft Bill will replace the 1966 Seeds Act. Purpose: To provide for regulating the quality of seeds for sale, import and export and to facilitate production and supply of seeds of quality and for matters connected therewith or incidental thereto Background In 1994, India signed the agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). In 2002, India also joined the International Union for the Protection of New Varieties of Plants (UPOV) Convention. Both TRIPS and UPOV led to the introduction of some form of Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) over plant varieties. Member countries had to introduce restrictions on the free use and exchange of seeds by farmers unless the “breeders” were remunerated. TRIPS and UPOV, however, ran counter to other international conventions. In 1992, the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) provided for “prior informed consent” of farmers before the use of genetic resources and “fair and equitable sharing of benefits” arising out of their use. In 2001, the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture (ITPGRFA) recognised farmers’ rights as the rights to save, use, exchange and sell farm-saved seeds. National governments had the responsibility to protect such farmers’ rights. As India was a signatory to TRIPS and UPOV (that gave priority to breeders’ rights) as well as CBD and ITPGRFA (that emphasised farmers’ rights), any Indian legislation had to be in line with all. It was this delicate balance that the Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights (PPVFR) Act of 2001 sought to achieve. The PPVFR Act retained the main spirit of TRIPS viz., IPRs as an incentive for technological innovation. However, the Act also had strong provisions to protect farmers’ rights. It recognised three roles for the farmer: cultivator, breeder and conserver. As cultivators, farmers were entitled to plant-back rights. As breeders, farmers were held equivalent to plant breeders. As conservers, farmers were entitled to rewards from a National Gene Fund. Why does India need a new Seed Bill? To enhance seed replacement rates in Indian agriculture Specify standards for registration of seed varieties Enforce registration from seed producers to seed retailers Features of the Bill All varieties of seeds for sale have to be registered.  The seeds are required to meet certain prescribed minimum standards.  Transgenic varieties of seeds can be registered only after the applicant has obtained clearance under the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986.  The label of a seed container has to indicate specified information. The Bill exempts farmers from the requirement of compulsory registration.  Farmers are allowed to sow, exchange or sell their farm seeds and planting material without having to conform to the prescribed minimum limits of germination, physical purity and genetic purity (as required by registered seeds). However, farmers cannot sell any seed under a brand name. Shortcomings Done away with the clause that stipulates constitution of a committee to decide on compensation to be given to affected farmers when seeds sold by companies and their agents fail to meet the promised performance under given conditions.  Redressal mechanism is absent: Seed failure happens when shoddy companies sell shoddy seeds. To protect farmers against this, there are provisions within the PPVFRA to claim compensation. In the seeds bill, the farmer cannot claim compensation within the purview of the law. Here, he must approach the consumer courts under the Consumer Protection Act to claim compensation for the failed seed. This is manifestly unfair since the government has washed its hands off its responsibility and laid the burden on the farmer. He will spend his money and run around from pillar to post for years claiming compensation, which may never come. For the farmer, the redressal mechanism has to be simple, accessible and time bound. The primary onus has to be taken by the State, to get justice for farmers in case of seed quality failures. It cannot be left to individual farmers to fight it out as consumers in the market Provision to regulate prices of seeds sold - Regulation of quality of seed will no longer be enough to protect farmers’ interests unless seed prices are also regulated As per the PPVFR Act, all applications for registrations should contain the complete passport data of the parental lines from which the seed variety was derived, including contributions made by farmers. This allows for an easier identification of beneficiaries and simpler benefit-sharing processes. Seeds Bill, on the other hand, demands no such information while registering a new variety. As a result, an important method of recording the contributions of farmers is overlooked and private companies are left free to claim a derived variety as their own. The PPVFR Act, which is based on an IPR like breeders’ rights, does not allow re-registration of seeds after the validity period. However, as the Seeds Bill is not based on an IPR like breeder’s rights, private seed companies can re-register their seeds an infinite number of times after the validity period. Given this “ever-greening” provision, many seed varieties may never enter the open domain for free use. Exemption for offences committed by companies - This clause seeks to absolve company officials from any punishment for violations, saying that if they prove it happened without their knowledge, they are not liable. According to the Seeds Bill, farmers become eligible for compensation if a plant variety fails to give expected results under “given conditions”. “Given conditions” is almost impossible to define in agriculture. Seed companies would always claim that “given conditions” were not ensured, which will be difficult to be disputed with evidence in a consumer court. Definition of farmer - The given definition is that a farmer is anyone who owns cultivable land. Seed Bill, in fact, has got nothing to do with ownership of the land. The Way Ahead Strong public agricultural research systems ensure that the choices between hybrids, varieties and farm-saved seeds remain open, and are not based on private profit concerns. Even if hybrids are the appropriate technological choice, seed prices can be kept affordable. For the seed sector and its laws to be truly farmer-friendly, the public sector has to recapture its lost space. Connecting the Dots: The new draft Seed Bill will make the farmer run from pillar to post. Do you agree? Substantiate

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Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 12th December 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 12th December 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Shore temple Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains I– Culture& Geography In News The shoreline on the northern side of the Shore Temple in Mamallapuram, Tamil Nadu is facing severe sea erosion. The Public Works Department is awaiting funds to construct groynes for coastal protection at a cost of ₹95.95 crore.  According to PWD, every year, nearly 4-5 m of the shoreline near the temple is declining. Groynes A groyne is a shore protection structure built perpendicular to the shoreline of the coast (or river), over the beach to reduce longshore drift and trap sediments. A groyne functions as a physical barrier by intercepting sand moving along the shore.  Rock is often used as construction material, but wooden groynes, steel groynes, rubble-mound and sand-filled bag groynes, or groynes made of concrete elements can also be found. Rock groynes are generally preferred as they are more durable and absorb more wave energy due to their permeable nature.  [caption id="attachment_54733" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 12th December 2019[/caption] Src: Click here River Pollution Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III – Environment Conservation In News Samples taken from two-thirds of the water quality stations spanning India’s major rivers showed contamination by one or more heavy metals, exceeding safe limits set by the Bureau of Indian Standards. The study spanned 67 rivers in 20 river basins and was conducted by Central Water Commission (CWC) from May 2014 to April 2018. Iron emerged as the most common contaminant with 156 of the 442 sampled sites registering levels of the metal above safe limits.  None of the sites registered arsenic levels above the safe limit. The other major contaminants found in the samples were lead, nickel, chromium, cadmium and copper.  Source of metal pollution: Mining, milling, plating and surface finishing industries that discharge a variety of toxic metals into the environment. The presence of metals in drinking water is to some extent unavoidable and certain metals, in trace amounts, required for good health. However, when present above safe limits, they are associated with a range of disorders. Health Impact: Long-term exposure to the above-mentioned heavy metals may result in slowly progressing physical, muscular, and neurological degenerative processes that mimic Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis. [caption id="attachment_54734" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 12th December 2019[/caption] Src: Click here RISAT Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III - Space In News India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, in its 50th flight (PSLV-C48), successfully launched RISAT-2BR1, an earth observation satellite, along with nine commercial satellites of Israel, Italy, Japan and USA from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota. These satellites were launched under commercial arrangement with NewSpace India Limited (NSIL), the commercial arm of Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). RISAT-2BR1: It is a radar imaging earth observation satellite weighing about 628 kg.  The satellite will provide services in the field of Agriculture, Forestry and Disaster Management. The mission life of RISAT-2BR1 is 5 years. It is believed that RISAT-2BR1 along with Cartosat-3, a remote sensing satellite which was launched on November 27, 2019, will also be used for military reconnaissance.  Before the launch of RISAT (Remote Imaging Satellite), India relied on images provided by Canadian satellites as the current domestic remote sensing spacecraft are not equipped to capture images of the earth during cloud cover. PSLV Initially, the PSLV had a carrying capacity of 850 kg, and over the years it has been enhanced to 1.9 tonnes.  The PSLV is very versatile, having various mission options.The PSLV had helped take payloads into almost all the orbits in space, including the the Geo-Stationary Transfer Orbit (GTO), the moon and mars, and would soon be launching a mission to the Sun The PSLV has failed only twice — the maiden flight of the PSLV D1 in September 1993 and the PSLV C-39 in August 2017. USMCA trade deal Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II- International Relations In News The US, Mexico and Canada have finalised the United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) that will replace the 25-year-old North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA). But the deal needs approval by legislatures in the three countries before it can move forward. Salient Features ofU.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) USMCA is intended to last 16 years and will be reviewed every 6 years. Agriculture:  Farmers of major crops no longer have to worry about President Trump potentially pulling out of the existing Nafta and leaving them fewer major export markets. USMCA also gives dairy farmers more access to Canada.Tariffs of up to 275% have kept most foreign milk out of the Canadian market. Auto Rules: Compared with Nafta, USMCA significantly tightens the rules that the auto industry has to follow in order to trade vehicles duty free in North America. A certain proportion of a car will have to be produced by workers with higher wages, and a greater proportion of components will have to originate in North America. Pharma: The new dealremoves requirements for a 10-year exclusivity period for biologic drugs [medication derived from or containing components of biological organisms, rather than having been totally synthesized], which would have benefited large pharmaceutical companies. It also includes stronger protections for workers, tough environmental rules, updates the trade relationship to cover the digital economy and provides tougher intellectual property protections. Digital Freedom: USMCA, unlike the current Nafta, includes rules mandating the free flow of data among the three countries.  Canada managed to preserve the dispute-settlement mechanism as a protection for its wood industry. It also adds provisions to prevent “manipulation” of the trade rules, including covering currency values, and controls over outside countries trying to take advantage of the duty-free market. Electric commercial aircraft Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Science & Technology In News World's first fully-electric commercial aircraft took its inaugural test flight in Vancouver, Canada. It involved a six-passenger aircraft fitted with an electric motor. Seattle-based Engineering firm magniX designed the plane's motor and worked in partnership with Harbour Air. The push to electric could help slash carbon emissions in the high-polluting aviation sector. The technology would mean significant cost savings for airlines  An aircraft like the one flown in Vancouver could only fly about 160km (100 miles) on lithium battery power. Still, electric aircraft that can travel long distances remain a big challenge for the sector. The e-plane has to be tested further to confirm it is reliable and safe. In addition, the electric motor must be approved and certified by regulators. Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi) Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Science & Technology In News Bharti Airtel, which recently removed its FUP (Fair Usage Policy) on calls to other networks, has introduced Voice over Wi-Fi (VoWiFi), a first for India Wi-Fi Calling makes use of high speed Internet connection, available via broadband, to make and receive high definition (HD) voice calls. Users don’t have to pay extra for these calls as it is using a Wi-Fi network. Wi-Fi Calling is aimed especially for areas where cellular networks are not strong. This is not much different from a voice call using WhatsApp or any other over-the-top messaging platform, but here the call is from one number to another, and not using an app. Wi-Fi Calling can be configured on compatible smartphones by upgrading operating systems to the version that supports Wi-Fi Calling, and enabling this in Settings.  Airtel says it will soon be compatible with all broadband services and Wi-Fi hotspots, and rolled out in other locations. (MAINS FOCUS) SOCIETY TOPIC: General Studies 1: Role of women and women’s organization, population and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies. Rape and sexual crimes law in India [caption id="attachment_54735" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 12th December 2019[/caption] SRC: Human Rights watch Context: There has been an outcry for justice for the victims after the rape and murder of a veterinarian in Hyderabad and the burning of a rape survivor in Unnao, Uttar Pradesh. History of Rape law: First introduced in the Indian Penal Code in 1860.  The first Law Commission under the chairmanship of Lord Macaulay decided to put the criminal law of the land in two separate codes. (Indian Penal Code & Code of Criminal Procedure ) Indian Penal Code IPC : Section 375 of the IPC made punishable the act of sex by a man with a woman if it was done against her will or without her consent. Her consent has been obtained by putting her or any person in whom she is interested, in fear of death or of hurt is considered to be Rape  Sex with or without her consent, when she is under 18 years is considered rape.  Exception : sexual intercourse or sexual acts by a man with his wife, the wife not being under 15 years of age, is not rape.  Section 376 provided for seven years of jail term to life imprisonment Mathura custodial rape case 1972 In 1972 a young Adivasi girl named Mathura was allegedly raped by policemen in the Desai Gunj Police Station in Maharashtra.  In the trial that ensued, the sessions court came to the conclusion that she had sexual intercourse while at the police station but rape had not been proved and that she was habituated to intercourse. The sessions court acquitted both the policemen, the High Court reversed the order of acquittal.  When the case reached the Supreme Court, it overturned the High Court verdict saying that “the intercourse in question is not proved to amount rape”. SC 1978 verdict, said no marks of injury were found on the girl after the incident and “their absence goes a long way to indicate that the alleged intercourse was a peaceful affair”. Controversy and Criminal Law (Second Amendment) Act 1983 Controversial SC 1978 verdict sparked widescale protests across the country seeking a change in existing rape laws. This led  to Criminal Law (Second Amendment) Act of 1983.  Section 114A in the Indian Evidence Act of 1872 was inserted which presumed that there is absence of consent in certain prosecutions of rape if the victim says so. This applied to custodial rape cases. Section 228A was added which makes it punishable to disclose the identity of the victim in Rape case Law Commission: Law Commission in its 172th report recommended widening the scope of rape law to make it gender neutral. While the rape law in India even today remains gender specific, as the perpetrator of the offence can only be a ‘man’, the 172nd report led to the amendments in the Indian Evidence Act in 2002. Nirbhaya case in Delhi 2012 &Criminal Law (Amendment) Act in 2013  Parliament made the amendments on the recommendation of the Justice J.S. Verma Committee, which was constituted to re-look the criminal laws in the country and recommend changes. The 2013 Act, increased jail terms in most sexual assault cases and also provided for the death penalty in rape cases that cause death of the victim or leaves her in a vegetative state. It also created new offences, such as use of criminal force on a woman with intent to disrobe, voyeurism and stalking. Unwelcome physical contact, words or gestures, demand or request for sexual favours, showing pornography against the will of a woman or making sexual remarks stalking was made punishable acid attack was increased to 10 years of imprisonment. Offences against minors (Kathua Rape case in Jammu and Kashmir) Led to the passing of the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018 which for the first time put death penalty as a possible punishment for rape of a girl under 12 years;  The minimum punishment is 20 years in jail. The minimum jail term for rape, which has remained unchanged since the introduction of the IPC in 1860, was increased from seven to 10 years. National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) 2017 report: A  total of 3,59,849 cases were reported against women in 2017.( 2016, 3.38 lakh , 3.2 lakh cases 2015) The number of cases reported has increased. U Uttar Pradesh has again topped the list with 56,011 cases of crime against women, followed by Maharashtra with 31,979 cases and West Bengal at 30,002. Crimes against women constitute murder, rape, dowry death, suicide abetment, acid attack, cruelty against women and kidnapping.  ‘Cruelty by husband or his relatives’ accounts for 27.9 per cent of the crimes against women. ‘Assault on women with intent to outrage her modesty’ comprise 21.7 per cent, followed by ‘kidnapping and abduction of women’ with 20.5 per cent and ‘rape’ with 7.0 per cent of reported cases.  Rape data : ‘Rape’ stands with 7.0 per cent of reported cases.  A total of 32,559 rapes were reported in 2017 in India.  Madhya Pradesh has recorded the highest number of rape cases at 5,562 cases being reported in 2017. Uttar Pradesh is second to MP.  Delhi, saw a decline in reporting of rape cases, in 2017, 13,076 were reported, which is the lowest in the last three years. 93.1 percent cases the accused were known to the victims. Arunachal Pradesh, Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim, Tripura can be seen as moderately safer than other states as they recorded the lowest number of cases. Way forward: Make the criminal justice system tougher on an offender committing sexual crimes against women and children. Connecting the dots: Punishments must reinforce people’s faith in the rule of law, not undermine it. Analyse DEVELOPMENT TOPIC: General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Assam protests against Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) Context: In the protests in the Northeast against the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB), 2019, the outrage has been most intense, sustained and widespread in Assam.  Large parts of the other Northeastern states have been exempted from the ambit of the CAB, although there have been protests there too. On the other hand, the larger part of Assam is under CAB. Reason for protests in Assam Angst against the Citizenship (Amendment) Bill rooted in a fear that illegal Bengali Hindu migrants from Bangladesh, if regularized, will threaten cultural and linguistic identities. Students, activists, writers, actors, musicians and people from all walks of life thronged the streets to voice their angst against the bill since they believe the bill will pose a serious threat to their livelihood and political destiny. Though this provision covers refugees from three nations, the people in the North-East fear that it will primarily benefit the illegal Bengali Hindu migrants from Bangladesh who have settled in "large numbers" across the region. Though the BJP has tried to hard sell the bill projecting it as a strategy to protect the Hindu identity of Assam against the influx of Muslims from Bangladesh, it failed to take into account the fear among the Assamese people of cultural hegemony of Hindu Bengalis The Assamese fear that if Bengali Hindus and Bengali Muslims join hands, Bangla speakers will easily outnumber Assamese-speaking people in the state, as it has happened in Tripura where Bengali-Hindu immigrants from East Bengal now dominate political power, pushing the original tribals to the margins. Areas which are exempted There are two categories that have been given exemption — states protected by the ‘Inner Line’, and areas covered under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution. Inner Line Permit (ILP): This is a special permit that citizens from other parts of India require to enter a state protected by the ILP regime. Without an ILP granted by the state government, an Indian from another state cannot visit an state that is under the ILP regime. Sixth Schedule: The Sixth Schedule relates to special provisions in administration of certain Northeastern states. It provides special powers for  Autonomous District  Councils (ADCs) in these states. ADCs have powers to enact laws in areas under their jurisdiction on a variety of subjects, one of its objectives being to boost self-governance by tribal communities. State by state Assam: The state has three Autonomous District Councils, two of which are geographically contiguous. While these are protected, CAB will be in effect in a larger area. Meghalaya: This state too has three ADCs. Unlike in Assam, the ADCs in Meghalaya cover almost the entire state. Only a small part of Shillong is not covered. CAB will be effective in that part of Shillong while the rest of the state is protected. Tripura: One ADC covers around 70% of the state’s area. However, the remaining 30% holds about two-thirds of the population. CAB is effective in the smaller, more densely populated regions. Arunachal Pradesh: Entire state covered under ILP regime, protected from CAB. Nagaland: Entire state covered under ILP regime, protected from CAB. So far, only Dimapur used to be outside the regime. Now, ILP has been extended to Dimapur, too, so the whole state is now exempt. Mizoram: Entire state covered under ILP regime, protected from CAB. Additionally, the state has three ADCs that are also protected under the Sixth Schedule. Manipur: Entire state gets new ILP protection. The state was not protected under either option, but following the introduction of CAB in Parliament, the government has introduced ILP in Manipur too. Do you know? The new amendment to the Citizenship Act of 1955 aims to provide Indian citizenship to Hindu, Sikh, Buddhist, Jain, Parsi and Christian refugees from Afghanistan, Bangladesh and Pakistan.  A person belonging to any of these faiths - who entered India on or before December 31, 2014 and have lived in the country for six years - can apply for Indian citizenship. Connecting the dots: Citizenship Amendment Bill not only excludes Muslims but creates other complications. Analyse. (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 VoWiFi It uses high speed Internet connection, available via broadband, to make and receive high definition (HD) voice calls.  This is not much different from a voice call using WhatsApp or any other over-the-top messaging platform which requires the usage of unique app designed for the purposei.e call cannot be made from one number to another Which of the 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 Groynes A groyne is a shore protection structure which functions as a physical barrier by intercepting sand moving along the shore.  Groynes made of concrete are generally preferred as they are more durable and absorb more wave energy due to their permeable nature.  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 River Pollution The presence of metals in drinking water in trace amounts is required for good health. However, when present above safe limits, they are associated with a range of disorders. Mining, milling, plating and surface finishing industries that discharge a variety of toxic metals into the environment are the main source of metal pollution in rivers. 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 RISAT-2BR1 It is a radar imaging earth observation satellite Itis meant for applications in various fields like agriculture, forestry, disaster management support and would also serve military purposes Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements about E-plane World's first fully-electric commercial aircraft took its inaugural test flight in Bengaluru, India The technology would mean significant cost savings for airlines and could help slash carbon emissions in the high-polluting aviation sector. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 11 DEC 2019 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 D 2 D 3 B 4 B MUST READ Strength in numbers: On judge vacancies The Hindu Testing judicial reforms The Hindu Brute majority IE PMJAY can help bridge the gender gap in availing of healthcare services IE Rethink the Social Security Code 2019 ET Stop Toxic Dope in Its Track and Field ET

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RSTV IAS UPSC – India - Japan 2+2

India - Japan 2+2 Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 India and its neighbours In News: Ahead of the annual summit meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in December, India and Japan held the first ever ministerial level 2+2 dialogue in New Delhi. This dialogue which involves the Defence and Foreign Ministers on both sides is seen as an endorsement of the special strategic partnership between both the Nations. Acknowledging emerging security challenges, the Ministers reiterated their commitment to advancing bilateral security cooperation based on the 2008 Joint Declaration on Security Cooperation and the 2009 Action Plan to advance Security Cooperation.  Recalling that the two sides had a shared vision of a free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific region in which the principles of sovereignty and territorial integrity are ensured, and all countries enjoy freedom of navigation and overflight, the Ministers emphasized that further strengthening of bilateral cooperation was in mutual interest of both countries and would also help in furthering the cause of the peace, security and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region. Bilateral Cooperation – Defence Since last year India and Japan have initiated bilateral exercises between all three components of their defence forces.  There is a need to make continuous efforts for holding the bilateral exercises between the defence forces regularly and further expanding the same. In this regard, the Ministers welcomed the recently conducted second “Dharma Guardian-2019” and the second “SHINYUU Maitri-2019”. The Ministers also concurred to proceed with coordination for the first India-Japan joint fighter aircraft exercise in Japan. Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA): The Ministers expressed their desire for early conclusion of the negotiations and were of the view that the agreement will further contribute to enhancing defence cooperation between the two sides. Maritime Safety: Acknowledging the importance of ensuring maritime safety in achieving a free, open, inclusive and rules-based Indo-Pacific, the Ministers expressed their intention to further promote cooperation in the field of capacity building in maritime security and Maritime Domain Awareness including through cooperation with other countries. Set up of Information Fusion Centre - Indian Ocean Region (IFC-IOR) by India in December 2018.  Commencement of exchange of information based on the Implementing Arrangement for Deeper Cooperation between the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Indian Navy signed last year. Defence equipment and technology: Emphasized the need to further strengthen the defence equipment and technology cooperation and looked forward to productive discussions in the fifth Joint Working Group on Defence Equipment and Technology Cooperation (JWG-DETC). In this context, the Ministers welcomed the progress on cooperative research in the area of Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV)/ Robotics. Defence Education: The Ministers appreciated the existing exchange programs between the defence educational and research institutions of the two countries and expressed their desire to continue and expand the exchange programmes. Multilateral Cooperation Expressed their satisfaction at trilateral cooperation represented by the “MALABAR 2019” held from September-October 2019 off the coast of Japan, mine-counter measures exercise (MINEX) held in Japan in July 2019 and “Cope India 2018” in which Japan participated as an observer in December 2018. Welcomed the recent Japan-India-Australia-US Foreign Ministerial consultations in New York in September 2019. Regional and International Affairs They had a frank and fruitful exchange of views on the regional issues of mutual interests particularly on the security situation in the Indo-Pacific. Reaffirmed the importance of supporting ASEAN centrality and unity for promoting peace and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific  Welcomed the adoption of “ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP)” during the 34th ASEAN Summit in Thailand in June 2019.   Reiterated their support for ASEAN-led frameworks such as the East Asia Summit (EAS), the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) and ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).  The Japanese side appreciated India’s announcement of “Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative” at the recent 14th EAS to create a safe, secure, stable, prosperous and sustainable maritime domain and confirmed their willingness to discuss concrete cooperation based on the Initiative. India and Japan’s initiatives for realizing a free and open Indo-Pacific, including also the recent “Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative” and AOIP all strive for an Indo-Pacific region that is inclusive and open to all countries in the region.  The Indian side welcomed Japan’s “Vientiane Vision 2.0” in November 2019 as an updated initiative for defence cooperation between Japan and ASEAN. Reaffirmed the importance of realizing North Korea’s complete, verifiable and irreversible dismantlement of all weapons of mass destruction and ballistic missiles of all ranges in accordance with the relevant United Nations Security Council resolutions (UNSCRs) and expressed their commitment to the full implementation of the relevant UNSCRs.  Condemned North Korea’s recent launches of ballistic missiles which are clear violation of the relevant UNSCRs. The Ministers strongly urged North Korea to resolve the abductions issue at the earliest date. Took note of the negotiations of a Code of Conduct (COC) and urged that it should be effective, substantive, and consistent with international law, including the UNCLOS, ensure freedom of navigation and must not prejudice the rights and interests of the stakeholders using the South China Sea and freedoms of all states under international law. Connecting the Dots: The quadrilateral posturing by India, the US, Japan and Australia in the Indo-Pacific is critical to counter the aggression of China in the region. Comment.

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Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th December 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th December 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Appointment of judges Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II–Judiciary In News 213 names recommended for appointment to various High Courts are pending with the government/Supreme Court Collegium Supreme Court has said in a judicial order, at least the names on which the Supreme Court Collegium, the High Courts and the governments had agreed upon should be appointed within six months. The High Courts are functioning at nearly 50% of their sanctioned judicial strength. Of a total 1,079 judges sanctioned in the High Courts, there are 410 vacancies.  There were three SC judgments which made it crystal clear that the government had no option but to make the appointments if the collegium reiterated them after the government returned the names with objections. On the Supreme Court collegium clearing the recommendees, the Union Law Ministry has to put up within three weeks the recommendations to the Prime Minister who would advise the President on the appointment. However, no time limit has been prescribed for action by the Prime Minister and the President.  [caption id="attachment_54693" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th December 2019[/caption] Src: Click here Land Boundary Agreement Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II – International Relations In News More than four years after the historic Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) between India and Bangladesh, a report released by civil rights organisation - Masum- on the situation in erstwhile enclaves states that protest and resistance have become an essential part of their survival in India. The report says that the condition of the people is far from what they had imagined. They are yet to get land records and nothing has been done for providing them employment The report calls for a comprehensive survey should be undertaken to identify and assimilate the people whose names have been left out of the headcount previously, and all the benefits of being a citizen in India should be extended to them LBA settles land boundary dispute which dates back to colonial times as India transfers 111 border enclaves to Bangladesh in exchange for 51 enclaves. It also settles the question of citizenship for over 50,000 people in these enclaves. For more details, refer: https://iasbaba.com/2015/05/big-picture-india-bangladesh-land-boundary-agreement/ [caption id="attachment_54694" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th December 2019[/caption] Src : Click here Defamation Case Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II - Governance In News Supreme Court has held that internet intermediaries like Google cannot be protected from criminal defamation cases registered against them prior to October 27, 2009. It was only on October 27, 2009 that Parliament amended the Information Technology Act of 2000 to protect online intermediaries from liability for criminally defamatory content published in them by third parties. The amended Section 79 of the 2000 Act provided that “an intermediary shall not be liable for any third party information, data, or communication link made available or hosted by him.” The amendment gave almost blanket protection to intermediaries from legal action under Section 499/500 (criminal defamation) of the Indian Penal Code. In India, defamation cases can be filed under two heads. It is either civil or criminal. In civil defamation, a person who is defamed can move either the High Court or the subordinate courts and seek damages in the form of monetary compensation. There is no punishment in the form of jail sentence In criminal defamation, the person against whom a defamation case is filed might be sentenced to two years' imprisonment or fined or both.  Gandhipedia Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains I- Society In News The Government is developing ‘Gandhi Encyclopedia’ to spread awareness in the society. Ministry of Culture has approved a project for development of GandhiPaedia by National Council of Science Museums, Kolkata. The objective of the initiative is promotion of Gandhian philosophy and thoughts through social media platforms  Government is providing financial assistance of Rs. 5.25 cr for this project and has released an amount of Rs. 2.95 cr against first installment. U.S. International Commission on Religious Freedom (USCIRF) Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – International Affairs In News In the wake of the passage of the Citizenship Amendment Bill (CAB) in the Lok Sabha, USCIRF has expressed concern over it and considered recommending sanctions against Home Minister Amit Shah and other top leaders. USCIRF fears that the Indian government is creating a religious test for Indian citizenship through CAB that would strip citizenship from millions of Muslims In response, the External Affairs Ministry said India had the prerogative to validate its citizenry through various policies like any other country. About USCIRF The USCIRF is   an independent, bipartisan US federal government commission- an advisory body, which advises the US Congress and the administration on issues pertaining to international religious freedom In practice, the USCIRF has little teeth in implementation, but acts as a conscience-keeper for the two branches in the US government — the legislature and the executive.  It often takes maximalist or extreme positions, and has been used by civil society groups to put pressure on US Congress members and administration officials. Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI)  Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Environment Conservation   In News CCPI measures the emissions, renewable energy share and climate policies of 57 countries and the European Union, collectively responsible for about 90% of the global GHG emissions. It is released annually after analysing four parameters - greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, renewable energy, climate policy and energy use The CCPI 2020 is released by three international NGOs – German watch, New Climate Institute and Climate Action Network India for the first time ranks among the top ten countries in the index. It has improved its ranking from 11th last year to ninth this year It found the U.S. ranks last, followed by Saudi Arabia and Australia, although several countries did report falls in emissions last year, largely due to an industry-wide fade out of coal While climate performance varied greatly, the report found that none of the countries surveyed were currently on a path compatible with the Paris climate goals. The 2015 Paris accord saw nations agree to work towards limiting global temperature rises to “well below” two degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels. (MAINS FOCUS) INDIA’S FOREIGN RELATION TOPIC: General Studies 2: India-Australia signed Mutual Logistics Support Agreement Context India and Australia moved closer to closing in on the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA), as the Foreign and Defence Secretaries from both countries met recently. The dialogue comes ahead of Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison’s scheduled January 13-16 trip to India. The first such two-plus-two meeting happened in December 2017. The LSA will be one of the key agenda points during Prime Minister Morrison’s visit. The Agreement will allow the two countries to use each other’s military bases for logistics support, including food, water, and petroleum. During their meeting, the two sides carried out a comprehensive review of their strategic engagement and the regional security scenario, which is continuously evolving given China’s military expansion and economic influence. India-Australia bilateral relations When it comes to defence, India and Australia share a common concern over China. While Australia is worried about China’s presence in the Pacific, India is worried about China’s increasing activities and influence in the Indian Ocean. Earlier this year, the Australian and Indian navies concluded a two-week-long bilateral maritime exercise code-named AUSINDEX. The exercise was conducted to strengthen and enhance mutual cooperation and interoperability between the IN (Indian Navy) and RAN (Royal Australian Navy), providing opportunities for interaction and exchange of professional views between the personnel of the two navies. From 2016-18, the armies of the countries conducted a joint military exercise dubbed “AUSTRA HIND”. Significantly, for the first time in 2017, Australia’s Foreign Policy White Paper identified India as being at the “front rank” of Australia’s international partnerships, “on par with the US, Japan, Indonesia, and China”. The Quad The informal strategic Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QSD) that was initiated by Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2007 was largely in response to China’s growing power and influence. Initially, the “Quad” members included India, Japan, the US, and Australia; however Australia chose to withdraw when Kevin Rudd was Prime Minister, since it did not want to be a part of an anti-China alliance at the time. However, Australia later rejoined the dialogue in 2017 on the sidelines of the ASEAN Summit, signalling a re-ignition in Australia’s interest in the dialogue. Connecting the dots: 2+2 dialogue will further cement India-Japan strategic relations. Critically examine. POLITY TOPIC: General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Arms Amendment Bill, 2019 Context: Parliament recently approved a legislation providing for a maximum punishment of life imprisonment for manufacturing and carrying illegal arms. The Bill seeks to amend the Arms Act, 1959.  It seeks to decrease the number of licensed firearms allowed per person and increase penalties for certain offences under the Act.   It also introduces new categories of offences.  Features: License for acquiring firearms: Under the Act, a license must be obtained to acquire, possess, or carry any firearm.  A person can obtain a license for up to three firearms. The Bill reduces the number of permitted firearms from three to one. The validity of a firearm license will be from three years to five years. Ban on firearms: The Act bans manufacture, sale, use, transfer, conversion, testing or proofing of firearms without license. The Bill additionally prohibits obtaining or procuring un-licensed firearms. Increase in punishment: The Bill increases the punishment related to un-licensed firearms and various other offences to between seven years and life imprisonment, along with a fine. New offences: The Bill adds news offences.  These include: (i) forcefully taking a firearm from police or armed forces (ii) using firearms in a celebratory gunfire which endangers human life or personal safety of others. Celebratory gunfire refers to use of firearms in public gatherings, religious places, marriages or other functions to fire ammunition. Tracking of firearms: The central government may make rules to track firearms and ammunition from manufacturer to purchaser to detect, investigate, and analyse illicit manufacturing and trafficking. heirloom or heritage weapons could be kept if they have been de-activated. The bill has also accorded special status to sportsperson who need firearms and ammunition for practice and participating in tournaments. As per the bill, those who own more than two firearms will have to deposit the third one with police station concerned or authorised gun dealers. The new legislation has a provision for life imprisonment for those who snatch or loot arms and ammunition from police or other security forces. The Bill amends a Section of the Arms Act, 1959, to give punishment from the usual life term of 14 years to "imprisonment for the remainder of that person's life" for manufacturing, selling, repairing and possessing "prohibited" arms. The minimum punishment under this section will be 14 years. According to an estimate, India has a total of around 35 lakh gun licences. Thirteen lakh people have licences to carry weapons in Uttar Pradesh, followed by militancy-hit Jammu and Kashmir, where 3.7 lakh people possess arms licences, most of which were taken in the name of personal security. Punjab, which witnessed terrorism in 1980s and 1990s, has around 3.6 lakh active gun licences, most of which were issued during the two decades of strife. Connecting the dots: Arms Amendment Bill, 2019 will ensure effective control over arms and ammunition which is very important for safety and security in the country. Critically analyse. (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) Constitution (100th Amendment) Act,2015 deals with which of the following provision? National Judicial Appointments Committee Goods and Services Tax Constitutional status to National Commission on Backward Classes Land Boundary Agreement between India & Bangladesh Q.2) Consider the following statements about Appointments of Judges to Supreme Court/High Court Appointment of Judges to High Court is done on the basis of recommendation by Supreme Court Collegium whereas appointment of Judges to Supreme Court is done on the basis of recommendation by National Judicial Appointments Committee. When the Supreme Court collegium clears the name for appointment as a Judge of High Court, Prime Minister & President have to act within the six months of receiving the recommendation from Supreme Court Collegium. 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 Gandhipedia It is being developed by NITI Aayog in collaboration with Ministry of Culture. The objective is to promote Gandhian philosophy and thoughts in society 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 Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) It is released by Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change in Collaboration with United Nations India for the first time ranks among the top ten countries in the 2020 released index Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 ANSWERS FOR 10 DEC 2019 TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE (TYK) 1 D 2 D 3 A 4 C 5 D MUST READ  Instant reward: On Karnataka defection politics The Hindu Doping to win: On Russia’s ban from global sporting events The Hindu A patently unconstitutional piece of legislation The Hindu Wholly subordinated to the majoritarian nation The Hindu Citizenship Amendment Bill continues long tradition of welcoming persecuted minorities IE Religious basis of citizenship would be a negation of secularism, liberalism, equality and justice IE

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RSTV IAS UPSC – Heart Attack

Heart Attack Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health September 29: World Heart Day What is Heart Attack? Death of a segment of heart muscle caused by a loss of blood supply The blood is usually cut off when an artery supplying the heart muscle is blocked by a blood clot. The blockage is most often a build-up of fat, cholesterol and other substances, which form a plaque in the arteries that feed the heart (coronary arteries). During a heart attack, one of these plaques can rupture and spill cholesterol and other substances into the bloodstream. A blood clot forms at the site of the rupture. If large enough, the clot can block the flow of blood through the coronary artery, starving the heart muscle of oxygen and nutrients (ischemia). Types of Heart Attack Rheumatic heart disease: A chronic heart condition that is caused by rheumatic fever (common heart disease in children). This disease is more prevalent in developing countries, especially in areas of poverty. Valvular heart disease: Involves one or more of the four valves of the heart (the aortic and bicuspid valves on the left side of heart and the pulmonary and tricuspid valves on the right side of heart). These conditions occur largely as a consequence of aging, but may also be the result of congenital (inborn) abnormalities or specific disease or physiologic processes including rheumatic heart disease and pregnancy. Hypertensive heart diseases: Due to High blood pressure - overburdens heart and blood vessels, causing damage Cerebrovascular heart disease: Blood circulation to the brain is affected, caused mainly due to atherosclerosis Inflammatory heart disease: Inflammation of the pericardium Bacterial or fungal infection Heart attack and myocarditis Consumption of medications that suppress immune system Radiation therapy to the chest Due to diseases such as Cancer, Leukaemia, TB, etc. Ischemic Heart Disease: Due to decreased supply of oxygen to the myocardium i.e., the muscle of the heart (also known as coronary artery disease) Symptoms A feeling of pressure, tightness, pain, squeezing Aching in the chest or arms that spreads to the neck, jaw, or back Coughing Nausea Vomiting Crushing chest pain Dizziness Shortness of breath called dyspnoea Face seeming grey in color A feeling of terror that life is ending Restlessness Feeling clammy and sweaty Shortness of breath Not all people who have heart attacks have the same symptoms or have the same severity of symptoms. Some people have mild pain; others have more severe pain. Some people have no symptoms; for others, the first sign may be sudden cardiac arrest. Risk factors Age: Men age 45 or older and women age 55 or older are more likely to have a heart attack than are younger men and women. Tobacco: This includes smoking and long-term exposure to second hand smoke. High blood pressure: Over time, high blood pressure can damage arteries that feed your heart. High blood pressure that occurs with other conditions, such as obesity, high cholesterol or diabetes, increases your risk even more. High blood cholesterol or triglyceride levels: A high level of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) is most likely to narrow arteries. A high level of triglycerides, a type of blood fat related to your diet, also ups your risk of heart attack. However, a high level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol (the "good" cholesterol) lowers your risk of heart attack. Obesity: Obesity is associated with high blood cholesterol levels, high triglyceride levels, high blood pressure and diabetes. Losing just 10 percent of your body weight can lower this risk, however. Diabetes: Not producing enough of a hormone secreted by your pancreas (insulin) or not responding to insulin properly causes your body's blood sugar levels to rise, increasing your risk of heart attack. Metabolic syndrome: This occurs when you have obesity, high blood pressure and high blood sugar. Having metabolic syndrome makes you twice as likely to develop heart disease even if you don't have it. Family history of heart attack: If your siblings, parents or grandparents have had early heart attacks (by age 55 for male relatives and by age 65 for female relatives), you might be at increased risk. Lack of physical activity: Being inactive contributes to high blood cholesterol levels and obesity. People who exercise regularly have better cardiovascular fitness, including lower high blood pressure. Stress: You might respond to stress in ways that can increase your risk of a heart attack. Illicit drug use: Using stimulant drugs, such as cocaine or amphetamines, can trigger a spasm of your coronary arteries that can cause a heart attack. A history of preeclampsia: This condition causes high blood pressure during pregnancy and increases the lifetime risk of heart disease. An autoimmune condition: Having a condition such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus can increase your risk of heart attack. Complications Abnormal heart rhythms (arrhythmias): Electrical "short circuits" can develop, resulting in abnormal heart rhythms, some of which can be serious, even fatal. Heart failure: An attack might damage so much heart tissue that the remaining heart muscle can't pump enough blood out of your heart. Heart failure can be temporary, or it can be a chronic condition resulting from extensive and permanent damage to your heart. Sudden cardiac arrest: Without warning, your heart stops due to an electrical disturbance that causes an arrhythmia. Heart attacks increase the risk of sudden cardiac arrest, which can be fatal without immediate treatment. (Figure out the differences between heart attack and cardiac arrest) What to do if you see someone who might be having a heart attack? If you see someone who's unconscious and you believe is having a heart attack, first call for emergency medical help. Then check if the person is breathing and has a pulse. If the person isn't breathing or you don't find a pulse, only then should you begin CPR to keep blood flowing. Push hard and fast on the person's chest in a fairly rapid rhythm — about 100 to 120 compressions a minute. If you haven't been trained in CPR, doctors recommend performing only chest compressions. If you have been trained in CPR, you can go on to opening the airway and rescue breathing. Causes of Death in India due to cardiovascular diseases Low quality of health care Lower access to healthcare facilities Lack of insurance  (an affordability barrier) Busy and stressful lifestyle leading to change in eating habits Household/Indoor air pollution  PCSK9 Use of PCSK9 inhibitors (PCSK9) helps in lowering cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart attacks. The PCSK9 are a new class of injectable drugs that reportedly reduce ‘bad’ cholesterol levels by up to 60% when combined with a statin (another class of drugs prescribed to help lower cholesterol levels). The discovery of cholesterol-lowering mutations in a human gene called PCSK9 led to the development of the most promising new drugs against heart disease since statins. Do you know? Geneticist Helen Hobbs and her colleague Geneticist Jonathan Cohen, found that when people had a mutation in PCSK9, they ended up with lower levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or bad cholesterol. Through this mechanism, the mutation protected people against heart disease, seemingly without side effects. In 2016, Ms. Hobbs was awarded the Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences for her work. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, abbreviated as LDL-c, is considered the ‘bad’ variant of cholesterol as it contributes to plaque deposition, leading to the hardening and narrowing of arteries or ‘atherosclerosis’ (thickening of artery walls owing to accumulation of white blood cells). Discuss on: a) Differences between cardiac arrest and heart attack b) State profile in terms of heart diseases c) Air pollution is a new tobacco; it kills more people than smoking. Substantiate. d) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Heart Attack Rewind’ It is launched by World Health Organisation (WHO) It promotes the elimination of industrially produced trans-fat in the food supply. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2

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