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Jan 9, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 147

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 147 Archives Q.1) What is ‘VY Canis Majoris’, which was recently in news? Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Computer Malware Night Frog Star Q.2) Which of the following acts established the direct rule of British crown over India? Government of India Act, 1858 Pitts India Act Indian Councils Act 1813 Indian Councils Act 1833 Q.3) Who of the following social reformers published a set of notes on “Infant Marriage and Enforced Widowhood.” Ishwarchand Vidyasagar Raja Rammohun Roy Bahramji Malabari Swami Dayananada Q.4) Consider the following statements about priority sector lending certificates (PSLC). PSLC is a short-term accounting instrument used by banks to cover shortfalls in meeting priority sector lending norms The idea of issuing priority sector lending certificates first appeared in the Report of the Dr. Raghu Ram Rajan led Committee on Financial Sector Reforms – A Hundred Small Steps Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) ‘Urban Climate Change Resilience Trust Fund (UCCRTF)’ is managed by World Bank Asian Development Bank European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba

Jan 9, 2019 RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – Mental Health and Insurance

Mental Health and Insurance Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. In News: A year after National Mental Healthcare Act 2017 was passed by the parliament, the Insurance Regulatory Development Authority of India has come out with guidelines asking all insurers to include mental health under their ambit of coverage. As per the Mental Health Survey of India for 2015-16 which was conducted by National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, approximately 15 percent of Indian population suffers from mental health issues which require active intervention. Mental illness requires prolonged medical attention along with continuous care and support from professionals which is often a huge financial burden on families. What makes this problem more complex is the deep rooted stigma around mental health conditions. The right to mental health The term “mental health” has become a euphemism for “mental illness”. This is in stark contrast to what it should be, for mental health is the most valued asset we have, the most treasured aspect of our humanity. This is precisely why, when people are asked to compare different health conditions, mental health problems are ranked as the ones they fear the most. This is not surprising, for we rely on the diverse capabilities our mental health underpins to successfully learn and master the skills that make our lives meaningful and worthwhile. So, one would expect that mental health would be the most prioritised of all issues facing the world. Sadly, that is quite far from reality. Mental ill health is on the rise worldwide, but that this increase is causing massive amount of disability, early deaths and fuelling cycles of poverty. Most people with mental health problems do not receive care, which prolongs suffering and leads to colossal societal and economic losses. Even worse, they are often subjected to human rights abuses and discrimination. Perhaps no other cause of suffering has been so profoundly neglected. In India, suicide is now the leading cause of death of young people, alcohol use is blatantly promoted by commercial interests and its abuse has been relegated to a moral issue to be addressed by primitive, punitive policies rather than through a public health approach, tens of thousands of people with severe mental health problems languish in horrific conditions in mental hospitals or on the streets and appalling deprivations — from under-nutrition to neglect — that affect the development of the brain in childhood remain unchecked. There are virtually no community-based mental health services in the country. Mental Health and Insurance As per the Mental Healthcare Act, mental illness means a substantial disorder of thinking, mood, perception, orientation or memory that grossly impairs judgement, behaviour, and capacity to recognise reality or ability to meet the ordinary demands of life. It also includes mental conditions associated with the abuse of alcohol and drugs, but does not include mental retardation which is a condition of arrested or incomplete development of mind of a person. The Act further states that every person with mental illness will be treated as equal to persons with physical illness when it comes to healthcare, including health insurance. IRDAI has taken cognisance of the law, and asked insurance companies to implement its provisions. The circular is a step in the right direction as it increases the scope of health insurance coverage for a large number of population. As per the National Mental Health Survey of India for FY16 conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences, nearly 15% of Indian adults are in need of active intervention for one or more mental health issues. IRDAI, in its circular, said that insurers will have to make provisions to insure mental illness, according to the rules laid down by the Mental Healthcare Act, 2017. According to Section 21(4) of the Act, every insurer needs to make provisions for medical insurance for treatment of mental illness on the same basis as is available for treatment of physical illness. The circular stated that insurers will need to comply with these provisions with immediate effect. However, this may still not mean a blanket cover for mental illness and may affect the pricing. Premium will have to be revised and though there was nothing against covering, but companies have always excluded not going the claims that can arise out of it. Issues that have riddled the mental health industry with obstacles in proper implementation and provision of services There are some differences in the definitions and coverage of mental disorders, and insurance companies will need to draft policies after considering the pros and cons of each system. Moreover, if insuring mental illnesses becomes dependent on the diagnoses – i.e. if claims will necessarily require a diagnosis for reimbursement – there is a chance that the healthcare system may be burdened with over-diagnosis, especially for children. It will be important to identify treatment modalities covered within the insurance plan. For example, depending on the severity of symptoms, psychopharmacological medication, psychotherapy or both may be required for treatment. In other cases, hospitalisation may be recommended. Therefore, insurance agencies will need to identify the scope of coverage for various mental disorders as well as rely on scientific, evidence-based therapy for the same. Third, and a related issue, will be to determine adequate licensing for mental health professionals in the country. Although the Rehabilitation Council of India bears the responsibility of registering clinical psychologists in India, there are several mental health para-professionals, including counselling psychologists and psychotherapists, whose licensure is not currently covered. Ideally, the IRDAI notification will push the sector towards ensuring that appropriate professional identification, regulation and registration of mental health professionals across the country happens. Fourth, it will now be the shared responsibility of insurers and mental health professionals alike to facilitate the acceptance and literacy of mental health conditions across the country. After all, when insurance agencies develop their models of mental health coverage, they will also want to guarantee sufficient buy-in from clients who may already be insured for physical ailments. This pushes the mental health dialogue to new heights, especially in the policy and insurance spaces, furthering the cause of establishing and sustaining mental health infrastructure in an overburdened country. Conclusion The growing acceptance of mental health issues among the urban youth is an indicator of demand for coverage. Further, whether only health or medical policies will include mental disorders in their coverage is not immediately clear. This is a paradigm shift in the Indian mental health space, with the potential to change how our country perceives mental illness. Improper implementation at this juncture could set us back several years. Insurers will hopefully acknowledge this policy as a complex yet important move for the overall wellbeing of their clients. Must read: Link 1 Connecting the Dots Addressing mental health will influence economic productivity of our nation. Discuss. The Rajya Sabha recently passed the Mental Healthcare Bill. What was the need of having a law relating to people having mental illness? Have the provisions of the law tried to address the pressing issues being raised by various stakeholders? Analyse.

Jan 9, 2019 UPSC Interview Discussion-TRP

Interview Discussion IAS UPSC: Think, Rethink and Perform (TRP)-Day 9

Interview Discussion: Think, Rethink and Perform; (TRP)- Day 9 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. Given a chance to change one thing in your surroundings, what will you change? What inspires your inclination to change something? Do you need to change something about yourself too? What would that be? Think about it. Set 2: Analyse the following issue: We are witnessing a series of biopics being made on politicians. Most of the times, these biopics create controversy. What are your views in this regard? Don’t you think that in a country where politics runs in the veins of citizens, the viewers are mature enough to digest such movies? Or rather, aren’t they getting deprived intellectually by the absence of sensible political films? Hasn’t the time come to welcome and embrace such movies? Think about it.

Jan 8, 2019 RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – Global Menstrual Hygiene Day

Global Menstrual Hygiene Day Archives TOPIC: General Studies 1 Role of women and women’s organization, women related issues, Social empowerment Menstrual Hygiene Day is an annual awareness day on May 28 to help break the silence and build awareness about the fundamental role that good menstrual hygiene management (MHM) plays in enabling women and girls to reach their full potential. Initiated by the German-based NGO WASH United in 2014 Theme of 2018 Menstrual Hygiene Day: #NoMoreLimits – Empowering Women and Girls through Good Menstrual Hygiene” Aims and Objectives: Will help to break the silence and build awareness about the fundamental role that good menstrual hygiene plays in enabling women and girls to reach their full potential. It will catalyse a growing, global movement for MHM and support partnerships at global, regional, national and local level. MH Day also creates opportunities for advocacy for the integration of MHM into global, national and local policies, programmes and projects. Why do women have period? Every month, the womb prepares for a possible pregnancy when it sheds the lining of the womb, resulting in period or menses. This usually happens once a month and a woman bleeds on an average for five days. The normal cycle varies from 21 to 35 days and the bleeding can last from two to seven days. Having a regular period indicates that a woman is ovulating every month. It is like a monthly reminder that women are capable of having a baby. The Challenge Lack of safe sanitation facilities: At least 500 million women and girls globally lack adequate facilities for menstrual hygiene management (MHM). Inadequate WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) facilities, particularly in public places, such as in schools, workplaces or health centers, can pose a major obstacle to women and girls. The lack of separate toilets with doors that can be safely closed, or the unavailability of means to dispose of used sanitary pads and water to wash hands, means that women and girls face challenges in maintaining their menstrual hygiene in a private, safe and dignified manner. A growing body of evidence shows that girls’ inability to manage their menstrual hygiene in schools, results in school absenteeism, which in turn, has severe economic costs on their lives and on the country. Cultural beliefs hampering lives: The challenge menstruating girls and women face is often less tangible than simply the availability of infrastructure, and is rooted in social norms and beliefs. In many cultures, menstruating women are considered impure and are systematically excluded from participating in every-day activities, such as education, employment, and cultural and religious practices. Moreover, the taboos and stigmas attached to menstruation lead to an overall culture of silence around the topic, resulting in limited information on menstruation and menstrual hygiene. Such misinformation can have ramifications on the health and dignity of girls and women. Potential risks to health of poor menstrual hygiene. Source: HOUSE et al. (2012) The Need Given the multiple challenges women and adolescent girls face, it is evident that promoting menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is not only a sanitation matter; it is also an important step towards safeguarding the dignity, bodily integrity and overall life opportunities of women and girls. A flagship sanitation operation in India, the Swachh Bharat Mission, includes measures on constructing facilities that cater to the needs of menstruating girls, and on raising awareness among the community, including among boys and men, with the objective of breaking the taboo around menstruation. Firstly, we must educate girls and their families about puberty and menstruation. Access to information to understand the menstrual cycle and how to manage menstruation hygienically Promote better awareness amongst men and boys (father, husband, teachers, brothers and peers) to overcome the embarrassment, cultural practices and taboos around menstruation that impact negatively on women and girls’ lives Secondly, we must improve their access to Access to hygienic clothes or disposable sanitary pads Facilities to hygienically dispose off used clothes and pads Adaptation of existing water, sanitation and hygiene services, to ensure their appropriateness to include water for washing clothes used to absorb menstrual blood and having a place to dry them and having a private space to change We must also assure girls of empathy and support when they have their periods, and access to a competent and caring health worker when they have menstrual health problems. Thirdly, we must change the narrative of menstruation from shameful, dirty and polluting to normal, healthy and positive. Conclusion Good menstrual health and management is a human right. Menstrual health and management is directly linked to the fulfilment of human rights; while menstrual health and management is excluded from the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), it is key to achieving six of the current goals. Menstrual health and management needs to be widely integrated into national education and health systems, curricula and materials, in humanitarian responses and in research on product acceptability and impact. Many countries are introducing a wider range of menstrual health and management products, including locally manufactured reusable and disposable pads and menstrual cups. New distribution channels are being established. Efforts need not just be taken to assure survival but to move beyond survival to enable individuals to thrive, and to transform communities and societies. Overcoming menstrual stigma and enabling girls to deal with their periods and take greater charge of their lives should be a key area of its focus. It is time we together create a world in which every woman and girl can manage her menstruation in a hygienic way – wherever she is – in privacy, safety and with dignity!

Jan 8, 2019 Yojana

IAS UPSC YOJANA & KURUKSHETRA Magazine ‘DECEMBER’ 2018

Archives Friends, Here we are with the DECEMBER 2018, edition of Yojana and Kurukshetra. Yojana/Kurukshetra: DECEMBER 2018 – Download

Jan 8, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 8th January 2019

Daily Current Affairs IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 8th January 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Reservation to the economically backward sections Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Social/Welfare issue; Reservation issue; Polity In news: Centre plans 10% reservation to the economically backward sections in the general category. Those who have an annual salary of less than ₹8 lakh per year and possess less than 5 acres of land will be able to avail themselves of reservation in educational institutions and jobs. A Constitution Amendment Bill was approved by the Cabinet in this regard. The Bill will also cover those from the Muslim, Sikh, Christian, Buddhist and other minority communities. The quota will be over and above the existing 50% reservation to the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and the Other Backward Classes (OBC). Pic: Do you know? Indira Sawhney case – In this case, Supreme Court had capped reservation at 50%. The judgment also held that Economic backwardness cannot be the sole criterion. Why Constitution Amendment Bill? Articles 15 and 16 of the Constitution will have to be amended for the implementation of the decision. The government proposes to bring the 10% over and above the 49% quota — 15% for Scheduled Castes, 7% for Scheduled Tribes and 27% for Socially and Educationally Backward Classes, including widows and orphans of any caste, which is permitted. But a total 59% (49%+10%) quota would leave other candidates with just 41% government jobs or seats. This may amount to “sacrifice of merit” and violate Article 14. National park/Wildlife Sanctuaries in news: Some of the important National parks/Wildlife Sanctuaries in Karnataka Bandipur National Park Bannerghatta National Park Kudremukh National Park Anshi National Park Dandeli Wildlife Sanctuary Pushpagiri Wildlife Sanctuary Bhadra Wildlife Sanctuary Brahmagiri wildlife sanctuary Cauvery Wildlife Sanctuary Some of the important National parks/Wildlife Sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu Mudumalai WLS and NP Annamalai / Indira Gandhi WLS and NP Point Calimere WS Satyamangalam WS Pulicat Lake WLS Pic: Centre okays Citizenship Bill Part of: GS Mains II – Indian Polity and Governance In news: Union Cabinet cleared the redrafted Citizenship Amendment Bill. The Bill paves the way to grant citizenship to six religious minorities — Hindus, Jains, Sikhs, Parsis, Christians and Buddhists — from Pakistan, Afghanistan and Bangladesh who came to India before 2014. However, there has been a strong resistance to the Bill (especially in Assam) as it would pave the way for giving citizenship, mostly to illegal Hindu migrants from Bangladesh, in Assam who came after March 1971, in violation of the Assam Accord of 1985. (MAINS FOCUS) ENERGY/DISASTER MANAGEMENT TOPIC:General studies 3 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Infrastructure: Energy Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life Disaster and disaster management. Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment. Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant issue The Jaitapur nuclear power project issue is back in news after French company Électricité de France (EDF) submitted a “techno-commercial proposal” to the Indian government (in Decemeber 2018) for the Jaitapur nuclear power project in Maharashtra. Do you know? India and France had on March 10 inked an agreement to expedite the Jaitapur nuclear power plant project, with the aim of commencing work at the site around the year-end. Once installed, the Jaitapur project will be the largest nuclear power plant in the world, with a collective capacity of 9,900 MW. The Indo-French nuclear agreement was signed in 2008 and it was decided to build a nuclear power plant in Jaitapur, some 600 km south of Mumbai. The power plant will have six nuclear European Pressurised Reactors (EPRs) with a capacity of 1,650 MW each. In March 2018, EDF and the Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) signed an “industrial way forward” agreement in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and French President Emmanuel Macron. Concerns: Locals of Jaitapur and some organisations have been opposing the project in the area citing safety and environmental concerns (especially due to EPRs). Earlier questions about costs and safety remain unanswered. With the Indian power sector facing surplus capacity and a crisis of non-performing assets (NPAs), a large investment in the Jaitapur project is particularly risky. Electricity from the Jaitapur project to be more expensive (₹15 per kilowatt-hour or even more) than many other sources of electricity, including solar and wind power. Across the world, EPRs have experienced delays and cost increases. The first EPR entered commercial operation in December 2018 at the Taishan site in China, five years later than originally projected (with final capital cost increasing over 40% over the original estimate). The story in Europe is more dramatic. Safety problems – Safety problems with the reactor design and construction have emerged in several EPRs (especially pertained to the pressure vessel, which is the key barrier that prevents the spread of radioactive materials from the reactor). EPRs at Flamanville (France) and Taishan (China), Olkiluoto in Finland - encountered problems. These safety concerns are exacerbated by India’s flawed nuclear liability law. Alternative sources of energy While nuclear costs have been rising, other low-carbon sources of electricity, especially solar energy, have become cheaper. In 2010-11, tariffs for solar photovoltaic (PV) projects under the National Solar Mission were between ₹10.95 and ₹12.76 per unit. Today it is below ₹5 per unit. In recent auctions for solar PV projects, winning tariff bids in the range of ₹2 to ₹2.50 per unit have become routine. Do you know? In March 2018, the parliamentary standing committee on energy listed 34 “stressed” projects, including NPAs and “those which have the potential to become NPAs”. It estimated an outstanding debt of ₹1.74 lakh crore. If the Jaitapur project encounters financial difficulties, the costs would fall on Indian taxpayers. Connecting the dots: Nuclear reactors are yet to find acceptance in the minds of people, especially after post Fukushima disaster. Is nuclear energy a feasible option for high energy demanding and consuming India? Critically analyse the need for making India independent in nuclear energy capabilities. Also, throw light on the recent progress of nuclear development in India. DISASTER MANAGEMENT TOPIC:General studies 3 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Disaster and disaster management. Meghalaya tragedy: show how little the lives of the poor matter in India Context: 15 workers were trapped inside in a rat-hole coal mine since mid-December (who are feared to be dead by now due to delayed rescue operations). A second disaster had struck Meghalaya’s illegal coal mines in less than a month, claiming the lives of two miners. Similar mine-flooding accident had claimed 15 lives in 2012 in South Garo Hills. India recorded 377 mine deaths in 3 years Much like the Meghalaya tragedy, other disasters—some driven by policy and others where policymakers look away—show how little the lives of the poor matter in India. Reasons: The tardy response of the Centre and the State of Meghalaya has exposed the extraordinary indifference in government to labour welfare and the law. The primary responsibility for the operation of illegal mines lies with the State government. It should be called to account for ignoring the directions of the National Green Tribunal to close them and levy punitive royalties on those that extracted the coal. Also violation of rules under the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, the responsibility lies with the State government. Justice B.P. Katoki committee appointed by the NGT had warned about the continued operation of the illegal mines. However, Meghalaya government failed to act and take appropriate actions. Mineral resources should have been treated as state property. The utter indifference of the state government to find a permanent solution to this recurrent tragedy is significant for two reasons. First, it appears that the lives of poor mine workers who are often migrants from Assam or illegal entrants from neighbouring Bangladesh matter little. Second, the state is seemingly complicit in the tragedy by not only allowing a banned enterprise but also collecting taxes from the transport of illegally harvested coal, bringing into scrutiny the elites’ disregard for the rule of law. Public policy disasters Other disasters and tragedies due to poor policies and actions by the State Over the past year, at least 17 people are likely to have succumbed to hunger in Jharkhand, which is among the poorest states in India, as they failed to link their biometric identification or Aadhaar number with their ration cards, which guarantee highly subsidised food under the National Food Security Act. Because of demonetization, more than a 100 people are estimated to have died either while standing in queues for long hours or for failing to provide new banknotes while getting treated in hospitals. An uncounted number of labourers die because of silicosis after inhaling stone dust while working in quarries in states such as Rajasthan and Gujarat. These deaths can be prevented by using face masks and goggles and by using wet drilling, but mine owners continue to ignore occupational health regulations. Rich consumers who extensively use stones as construction material in their homes remain unaware of the human costs involved. The same holds true of the recurrent deaths of sanitation workers. In the national capital alone, more than 20 labourers have died in the past year inhaling poisonous gases while cleaning sewers and sewage treatment tanks, despite the federal government’s thrust on sanitation and cleanliness. Conclusion: State government has done little to implement reforms and diversify employment away from dirty mining under primitive conditions over the years, in spite of judicial orders. It is the responsibility of the Centre and the State to rehabilitate the workers from impoverished communities, reportedly including some child labourers, who are ready to undertake the risky labour because of the higher-than-average wages paid. Connecting the dots: Recent deaths and tragedies at illegal mines and rat-hole mines highlight the need for urgent policy reforms. Discuss. What strategies would you suggest to prevent and mitigate the effects of such accidents? (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 with regard to 1992 Indra Sawhney judgement: Supreme Court held that the “test or requirement of social and educational backwardness cannot be applied to Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes, who indubitably fall within the expression ‘backward class of citizens’.” It laid down a 50 per cent limit on reservations and observed that economic, social and educational criteria were needed to define backward classes. The judgment also held that Economic backwardness cannot be the sole criterion. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 2 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) Anshi National Park is located in - Kerala Karnataka Uttar Pradesh Odisha Q.3) Point Calimere WS is located in – Kerala Karnataka Tamil Nadu Andhra Pradesh MUST READ Still nothing to show for: on Imran Khan's performance so far as PM The Hindu A different outreach: on Modi government and religion The Hindu Raja Mandala: The centre moves east Indian Express ‘Even if there isn’t friendship between govt and media, there shouldn’t be animosity’ Indian Express The reservation jumla Indian Express

Jan 8, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 146]

UPSC Quiz - 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 146] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements about ‘Subglacial Antarctic Lakes Scientific Access (SALSA)’ It is an integrative study of subglacial geobiology, water column and sedimentary organic carbon, and geological processes in Mercer Subglacial Lake SALSA can serve as an on-Earth comparison for habitats deep inside Mars or on the ice-covered moons of Jupiter and Saturn. Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) ‘70 point Performance Grading Index (PGI)’ is associated with MSMEs Education Adolescent Heath Total Fertility Rate Q.3) ‘Betla National Park’ is located in Rayalseema Vidarbha Chhota Nagpur Plateau Mewar Q.4) Which of the following statements is/are correct? River Son originates near Ranchi in Jharkhand North Koel River is a tributary of Son river 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 ‘National Investigation Agency (NIA)’ It came into existence with the enactment of the National Investigation Agency Act It was created aftermath the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba

Jan 8, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 7th January 2019

Daily Current Affairs [IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam] – 7th January 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Role of open market operations in easeing tight liquidity conditions Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy; monetary policy; open market operations In news: We know that the issue of liquidity crunch is being faced by the banking system. The tight liquidity conditions had led to overnight call money rate breaching the monetary policy corridor on several occasions. Therefore, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) decided to scale up its open market operations (OMO). In other words, RBI to pump in more liquidity into the system through open market operations (OMOs). About open market operations Open market operations are conducted by the RBI by way of sale or purchase of government securities (g-secs) to adjust money supply conditions. The central bank sells g-secs to suck out liquidity from the system and buys back g-secs to infuse liquidity into the system. These operations are often conducted on a day-to-day basis in a manner that balances inflation while helping banks continue to lend. The RBI uses OMO along with other monetary policy tools such as repo rate, cash reserve ratio and statutory liquidity ratio to adjust the quantum and price of money in the system. Do you know? When RBI sells government security in the markets, the banks purchase them. When the banks purchase Government securities, they have a reduced ability to lend to the industrial houses or other commercial sectors. This reduced surplus cash, contracts the rupee liquidity and consequently credit creation / credit supply. When RBI purchases the securities, the commercial banks find them with more surplus cash and this would create more credit in the system. Thus, in the case of excess liquidity, RBI resorts to sale of G-secs to suck out rupee from system. Similarly, when there is a liquidity crunch in the economy, RBI buys securities from the market, thereby releasing liquidity. Its worth to note here that the market for government securities is not well developed in India but still OMO plays very important role. GST can boost direct, indirect tax collections Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy; Fiscal policy In news: According to tax analysts, GST can boost direct, indirect tax collections. To meet its fiscal requirements, government is increasingly dependent on tax revenue and also trying to improve revenues via sources such as PSU dividends. The view among tax analysts is that the government cannot take the risk of increasing tax rates, whether direct or indirect, for fear of a backlash from the public. So, the only option it has to boost tax revenues is to increase the tax base and stop evasion, both of which the government has been trying to do. Do you know? Government’s dependence on tax revenue has steadily increased from last five years. However, the share of revenue from non-tax sources (such as dividends from PSUs and the RBI) and capital receipts (such as disinvestment proceeds) has been declining. Measures taken to increase the tax base and stop evasion Analysing the business-wise monthly GST payments and ascertaining trends in State-wise movement of goods using the e-waybill data. Government plans to correlate GST data with information relevant from an income tax payment perspective so that incorrect tax filings can be corrected and revenues enhanced. Therefore, the expansion of the GST taxpayer base, improving the return filings compliance and using the large amount of data available to detect tax evasion would become the cornerstone of the government’s measures to enhance tax revenues. Tribals of West Bengal battling food scarcity: study Part of: GS Mains II – Health issue; vulnerable section; Social/Welfare issue In news: According to a survey report, About 31% of tribal households in West Bengal face food scarcity in varying degrees. West Bengal is home to a over five million tribals, with 6% of the India’s tribal population of 100 million. But in many areas, tribals of the State are “far behind” in terms of human development. https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/01/07/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/29bb8ef3_2649661_101_mr.jpg Major factors: Poverty-born vices like alcoholism [and] the fragility of the public health system have resulted in a much lower life chances among the Adivasis. Degradation of forest and environmental degradation are cited as two more reasons for “reduced availability of natural nutrients” resulting in early deaths. The work participation rate [WPR] is higher among the Adivasis in Bengal “forcing the children of schoolgoing age to discontinue their studies in order to fend [for] themselves and support the families. Defence manufacturing rules eased Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Defence/Security; Government policies and schemes In news: Government has simplified the process for approval of manufacturing of a range of defence and aerospace equipment and components by private industry, by bringing them under the licensing authority of the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP). Licensing process made simpler for private industry to build a range of equipment. Earlier DIPP used to segregate defence items in two categories covered by two different Acts — the Industries (Development and Regulation) Act, 1951, and the Arms Act, 1959. Now, items are listed in three categories — defence aircraft, warships of all kinds, and allied items of defence equipment. This move is also expected to help foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEM) looking for partnerships with the private sector. U.S. withdraw from Syria Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International affairs In news: President Donald Trump’s National Security Adviser said that U.S. will withdraw from Syria only after security of Kurds is ensured. US wants a guarantee from Turkey that Kurds in Syria would be protected. Do you know? Kurdish-led forces control a large swathe of Syria’s north and northeast, some of it seized from the Islamic State group. A U.S. withdrawal could leave them exposed to an attack by neighbouring Turkey and its Syrian proxies. Aadhaar and driving licence may be linked In news: Government may soon make it mandatory for linking Aadhaar with driving licences. Aadhaar linkage will help to catch the guilty person who causes an accident. At present, the guilty person who causes an accident flees the scene and gets a duplicate licence. This helps him go scot-free. However, with the Aadhaar linkage one can change his/her name but cannot change their biometrics, neither iris nor fingerprints. Therefore makes it easy to hold the culprit. Person in news: Tahawwur Rana Why in news? Tahawwur Rana is a key accused in the 26/11 Mumbai terror attack case. Rana was arrested in 2009 and is serving a 14-year prison term in the U.S. for providing material support to terror outfit Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), which planned and executed the attacks. Rana, a Chicago-based businessman, helped David Coleman Headley open an immigration firm in Mumbai, which was a cover to conduct reconnaissance on targets that were attacked on November 26, 2008. The NIA also has registered a forgery case against Rana for opening the immigration centre based on fake documents. India-U.S. Extradition Treaty of 1997 Government of India had engaged with U.S. authorities under this treaty for custody of U.S.-based individuals for their role in the November 26, 2008, terrorist attacks in Mumbai. “Innovate2Cultivate” programme Part of: GS Mains III – Role of NGOs or CSOs; Science and Technology In news: “Innovate2Cultivate” programme - organized by a non-profit organisation connects start-ups with farmers of specific crops so that innovations are nurtured and taken to the farms. The start-ups have developed or are working on technologies and solutions such as organic micro nutrients and alternatives to pest management and soil management. ISS crew could grow beans in 2021 Part of: GS Mains III – Science and Technology In news: After cultivating lettuce in space three years ago, crew members aboard the International Space Station could be growing beans in 2021. Food grown in space could be crucial to sustain the astronauts in future deep space missions. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure Statutory, regulatory and various quasi-judicial bodies General studies 4 Integrity, impartiality and non-partisanship, objectivity, dedication to public service Status and problems; ethical concerns and dilemmas in government institutions; Federal polity and national agencies in India Background CBI has had its roots as an anti-corruption wing of the British Indian government known as the Delhi Special Police Establishment. Due to its competence and professionalism that from such humble origins it rose to national eminence and in 1963 it became the CBI. In the past some States occasionally blocked the CBI probe in specific cases. Now, the situation changed that hereafter a State’s refusal to allow the CBI probe in its territory is likely to be based not so much on the merits of a case but on political equations between that State and the ruling party at the Centre. Impacts on credibility of CBI Previously, people use to demand a CBI probe into any crime or scam involving influential persons. But now civil society’s lack of confidence in the agency’s competence and neutrality is very much evident. Giving credence to the doubts about the CBI’s integrity, the families of Govind Pansare and Gauri Lankesh have determined to oppose a combined CBI investigation into their killings as well as that of Narendra Dabholkar and M.M. Kalburgi. Centre-State implications Under the Constitution, the State governments have exclusive jurisdiction in matters related to law and order. The Centre can claim its jurisdiction over its departments located in States, such as railway property, and on matters like terrorism, sedition, counterfeit currency, etc. Even in these cases the Central agencies cannot discharge their duties without active cooperation from the State government concerned. Raising the concerns over integrity of CBI, the governments of Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal withdrew ‘general consent’ to the CBI to register fresh cases under its purview. Now CBI will have to obtain the State’s consent case by case; this will give a State government the opportunity to both ensure that the CBI is not acting at the behest of the ruling party at the Centre, or insert its own politics into investigations. The agency may technically go ahead with cases it already registered in these States, but that logic holds only on paper. Without a State government’s active cooperation, the CBI or any Central agency cannot carry out its operations in that State. Impact on other agencies It is not the CBI alone that will be caught in the cross hairs of Centre-State feuds in future. Other agencies such as the Enforcement Directorate, the National Investigation Agency (NIA), etc. may find it hard to smoothly carry out their operations in States that are not politically aligned with the ruling party at the Centre. For example: unlike the CBI act (the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act) which mandates States’ consent, the NIA Act does not place such a restraint on the NIA. However, the NIA would be no more effective than the CBI when a State refuses to cooperate, whether that refusal is de jure or de facto. Way forward There is urgent need to define and delineate ‘federal crimes’ as recommended by the Malimath Committee in 2003. The task should be to bring in States as partners in solving a national problem,rather than declaring them as federal problems. There is need to calibrate different tiers of government and bring about political consensus so as to ensure India’s constitutional scheme delivers on its promise. A first step in this direction has to be the willingness of political parties to recognise the danger they pose to each other as well as to the entire polity. And then arrive at a modus vivendi. Elected executive must refrain from ‘monitoring’ investigations; a provision for more effective judicial oversight at all stages of criminal investigations; and the resolve to ensure bureaucratic neutrality. Conclusion Institutional collapse is like a disease and it has entered a critical phase. If not tackled in time, it may inflict system-wide damage. The task of restoring the credibility of investigative agencies cannot be rocket science. Moreover, it is now in the self-interest of all political parties. The time is ripe for ideas to strengthen our federalism. Ideas for reforms will spring up and fructify only if elite consensus creates conducive environment. Connecting the dots: Bureaucratic professionalism and neutrality of national investigative and regulatory agencies, is key to success for constitutional federal polity in India. Comment. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Current events of national and international importance International disputes and agreements Lessons for Kashmir from the Kuriles Introduction The Second World War left behind many problems inherited from history, some of them were in respect of multiple disputed territories. One of them concerns four islands in the Kurile chain, that are claimed by Japan but occupied by Russia as successor state of the Soviet Union. Despite the passage of over 70 years, this dispute has defied solution and prevented the conclusion of a Russo-Japanese peace treaty to draw a final curtain over the detritus of the war. About Kuriles The Kuriles are an archipelago of some 56 islands. All of them are under Russian jurisdiction but Japan claims the two large southernmost islands, Etorofu and Kunashiri, and two others, Shikotan and Habomai, as its ‘northern territories’. These islands were occupied by the Soviet Union in August 1945, after which the entire Japanese population, numbering less than 20,000, was evicted. The islands are now populated by the various ethnic groups of the former Soviet Union, but only eight of them are actually inhabited. The prime value of the islands, however, is strategic. The Russians have deployed missile systems, plan a submarine project there, and intend to rule out any American military use of the islands. Opinions of; public and governments Public opinion in both countries is totally against any concession. Russians recalls the Japan-Russia war (1904-05) and the Japanese intervention with the U.S. and Europe during the early years of the Russian Revolution. Moscow’s legal claim is based on the post-war settlements of Yalta and San Francisco, whereas the Japanese claim is founded on the Russia-Japan treaties of 1855 and 1875. Leaders in both Russia and Japan are aware that their domestic political positions would be severely at risk from right-wing and conservative circles were they to suggest even the slightest compromise. Among hyper-nationalist circles, territorial issues have always been questions of utmost sensitivity. The Progress on Kurils In 2016, both countries embarked on some joint undertakings on the islands without calling in question the claims and legal positions of either side. They agreed to joint field surveys and joint economic activities with the identification of specific projects, the enterprises that would undertake them, and various levels of supervision. These proposals cover marine species and aquaculture, greenhouse strawberry and vegetable cultivation, development of package tourism, wind power generation, and the reduction and disposal of garbage. They also agreed to scheduled visits by Japanese families who sought to visit the graves of their ancestors. The Japanese have further proposed safe opportunities for fishing salmon and trout without using prohibited driftnet methodology, and cooperation in disaster prevention. These may seem small steps, but underlying them is a serious purpose: to build trust. Summits and Foreign Ministers’ meetings have become commonplace. Concerns of Russia Moscow is concerned about Tokyo amending Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution, which disallows Japan from maintaining a military force or using force to settle international disputes Russia views with anxiety the fact that Japan is among the world’s biggest spenders on defence and has a very powerful military. Japan plays host to American bases and missile systems, and plans to spend $240 billion up to 2024 on cruise missiles, missile interceptors, fighter jets and aircraft carriers. Responsible for this military build-up are apprehensions about threats from China and North Korea. Japan and South Korea seem to be inching towards a future of relative independence from the U.S. in wartime operations. Causes Japanese engagements with Russia Japan’s wish to engage with Russia stems from the rapid rise of China and the perceived threat from North Korea. Russia is now seen in Japan as the lesser enemy, and improving relations with Moscow might drive a wedge in the growing quasi-alliance between Russia and China, a break-up desired by the U.S.-led Western alliance. Russian far east is endowed with plentiful natural resources which are in need of investments, but is hampered by a small population, whereas China has 100 million citizens along that shared land border. Japan has no territorial or demographic ambitions in Russia other than the Kuriles, and has the capacity to transform the vast contiguous areas of Russia. The two countries agreed to resolve the Kurile islands dispute by concluding a peace treaty without any further delay. Conclusion: Lessons for India Although no two international problems are analogous, there are important lessons to be drawn from the manner in which traditionally hostile neighbours can identify common interests and explore unorthodox avenues along which to proceed in search of innovative solutions to apparently insoluble disputes. This requires strong leadership and a bold imagination. Neither India nor Pakistan lacks either attribute. Kashmir is essentially a territorial dispute of almost equal vintage as the Kuriles. But if both sides keep waiting for the most propitious time to make the first move, it will never come about. Connecting the dots: India and Pakistan can learn from Japan and Russia on seeking innovative solutions to territorial disputes. Comment. (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) In the context of Indian economy, Open Market Operations’ refers to Borrowing by scheduled banks from the RBI Lending by commercial banks to industry and trade Purchase and sale of government securities by the RBI None of the above Q.2) If the RBI implements an expansionist open market operations policy, this means that it will? Buy securities from non-government holders Offer commercial banks more credit in open market Sells G-securities (government securities) in open market Openly announces to the market that it intends to expand its credit Q.3) Which of the following are instruments of Monetary Policy? Repo Rate Liquidity adjustment Facility Cash Reserve Ratio Open Market Operations Select the code from below: 1 and 4 2 and 3 1,2 and 4 All of the above Q.4) Consider the following statement about Call Money Market: Borrowing and lending of funds take place on overnight basis. Participants in the call money market in India currently include all the scheduled commercial banks (SCBs), cooperative banks, insurance. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 None Q.5) The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) acts as a bankers’ bank. This would imply which of the following? Banks keep their deposits with the RBI RBI provides loans to banks whenever they are in need It rediscounts the Bills of exchange Choose the correct answer using the codes given below. 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only All of the above Q.6) Which among the following are government’s measures to enhance tax revenues? expansion of the GST taxpayer base improving the return filings compliance detect tax evasion PSU dividends Choose the correct options: 1 and 4 2 and 3 1,2 and 3 All of the above MUST READ India’s options and the Pashtun factor The Hindu India’s Atlantic challenge The Hindu Carryovers from 2018 Indian Express In 2019, a new outreach Indian Express An answer to rural distress Indian Express Lopsided spatial development in India needs to be fixed Livemint The distressing lack of enjoyable open spaces Livemint

Jan 7, 2019 PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 31st Dec to 6th Jan - 2018

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 31st Dec to 6th Jan - 2018 ARCHIVES GS-2 Menstrual Hygiene for Adolescent girls Schemes (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) Objective: To address the need of menstrual hygiene among adolescent girls residing primarily in rural areas Funds are provided to States/UTs through National Health Mission for decentralized procurement of sanitary napkins packs for provision primarily to rural adolescent girls at subsidized rates as per proposals received from the States and UTs in their Programme Implementation Plans. This scheme encompasses the following: Increasing awareness among adolescent girls on Menstrual Hygiene Improving access to and use of high-quality sanitary napkins by adolescent girls in rural areas. Ensuring safe disposal of Sanitary Napkins in an environmentally friendly manner. Provision of funds to ASHAs to hold monthly meeting with adolescents to discuss issues related to menstrual hygiene. A range of IEC material has been developed around Menstrual hygiene Scheme, using a 360 degree approach to create awareness among adolescent girls about safe & hygienic menstrual health practices which includes audio, video and reading materials for adolescent girls and job-aids for ASHAs and other field level functionaries for communicating with adolescent girls. ASHAs across the country are trained and play a significant role in promotion of use and distribution of the sanitary napkins. Department of Health Research, under the Ministry of Health, is involved in assessment of all newer, alternative, environment friendly menstrual hygiene products to look into their safety and acceptability features. Cabinet approves/apprised of MoU between India and Morocco on Cooperation in the area of Cyber Security: The MoU intends to promote closer cooperation for exchange of knowledge and experience in detection, resolution and prevention of security-related incidents between India and Morocco. Implementation of the MoU will result in significant mutual benefits in the Cyber Security sector, through institutional and capacity building with Morocco in the field of Cyber Security. High level committee to implement Clause 6 of Assam Accord Several Longstanding demands of Bodos also approved: After Assam agitation of 1979-1985, Assam Accord was signed on 15th August, 1985. Clause 6 of the Assam Accord envisaged that appropriate constitutional, legislative and administrative safeguards, shall be provided to protect, preserve and promote the cultural, social, linguistic identity and heritage of the Assamese people. The Committee shall examine the effectiveness of actions since 1985 to implement Clause 6 of the Assam Accord, will hold discussions with all stakeholders and assess the required quantum of reservation of seats in Assam Legislative Assembly and local bodies for Assamese people. The Committee will also assess the requirement of measures to be taken to protect Assamese and other indigenous languages of Assam, quantum of reservation in employment under Government of Assam and other measures to protect, preserve and promote cultural, social, linguistic identity and heritage of Assamese people. First-ever three-way merger in Indian Banking with amalgamation of Vijaya, Dena and Bank of Baroda: with Bank of Baroda as the transferee bank and Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank as transferor banks. The amalgamation will be the first-ever three-way consolidation of banks in India, with the amalgamated bank being India's second largest Public Sector Bank. Help create a strong globally competitive bank with economies of scale and enable realisation of wide-ranging synergies. Leveraging of networks, low-cost deposits and subsidiaries of the three banks has the potential of yielding significant synergies for positioning the consolidated entity for substantial rise in customer base, market reach, operational efficiency, wider bouquet of products and services, and improved access for customers. The amalgamated bank will be better equipped in the changing environment to meet the credit needs of a growing economy, absorb shocks and capacity to raise resources. Economies of scale and wider scope would position it for improved profitability, wider product offerings, and adoption of technology and best practices across amalgamating entities for cost efficiency and improved risk management, and financial inclusion through wider reach. It would also enable creation of a bank with scale comparable to global banks and capable of competing effectively in India and globally. Strengths of individual banks - such as Dena Bank's relatively higher access to low-cost CASA deposits, Vijaya Bank's profitability and availability of capital for growth, and the extensive and global network and offerings of BoB will translate into advantages in terms of market reach, operational efficiencies and the ability to support a wider offering of product and services. The amalgamated banks will have access to a wider talent pool, and a large database that may be leveraged through analytics for competitive advantage in a rapidly digitalising banking context. Benefits would also flow as a result of wider reach and distribution network and reduction in distribution costs for the products and services through subsidiaries. Public at large shall benefit in terms of enhanced access to banking services through a stronger network, the ability to support a wider offering of product and services, and easy access to credit. Amendment to the Trade Unions Act, 1926 to make provisions regarding Recognition of Trade Unions: The approval will facilitate: Recognition of Trade Unions at Central and State level; Ensure true representation of workers in the tripartite bodies; Check on the arbitrary nomination of workers’ representatives by the Government; and Reduce litigations and industrial unrest. Restructuring of National Health Agency as "National Health Authority" for better implementation of Pradhan Mantri - Jan Arogya Yojana: With this approval, the existing society "National Health Agency" has been dissolved and will be replaced by National Health Authority as an attached office to Ministry of Health & Family Welfare. Continuation of Rastriya Yuva Sashaktikaran Karyakram Scheme: The Scheme aims to develop the personality and leadership qualities of the youth and to engage them in nation building activities. Nehru Yuva Kendra Sangathan(NYKS) National Youth Corps (NYC) National Programme for Youth & Adolescent Development (NPYAD) International Cooperation Youth Hostels (YH) Assistance to Scouting & Guiding Organizations National Discipline Scheme (NDS) National Young Leaders Programme (NYLP) The Constitution (Scheduled Tribes) Order (Amendment) Bill, 2018’ for revision in list of Scheduled Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh: After the Bill becomes an Act, member of the communities newly listed in the revised list of Scheduled Tribes of Arunachal Pradesh will also be able to derive benefits meant for STs under the existing schemes of the Government. Continuation of Umbrella scheme for "Family Welfare and Other Health Interventions" during 2017-18 to 2019-20: The five schemes listed in the proposal are crucial to attaining the goals and objectives laid out in National Health Policy (NHP) 2017, and international commitments in the form of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). SwasthaNagrikAbhiyan(SNA): For dissemination of information on health issues to create awareness among citizens of India of ail age/sex/locations and appropriately influence their health seeking behavior to encourage healthy lifestyles and empower the citizens. Free Supply of Contraceptives: For providing free supply of contraceptives including condoms, Oral Contraceptive Pills, Pregnancy Test Kits, other contraceptives, etc. to States with a view to improve Maternal and Child Health and achieving population stabilization. MIS Scheme now proposed as Health Surveys and Health Research (HSHR): For sourcing of data on population, health and nutrition for India and its States including through periodically conducted National Family Health Survey, which is one of the largest surveys of its kind worldwide. The NFHS provides valuable data for policy and programmes right up to the district level. Social Marketing of Contraceptives: For branding, attractively packaging, marketing arid selling of products and services related to Family Planning for low-income groups at affordable prices. Population Research Centres (PRCs): For third party evaluation of the scheme on PRCs and specially of those centres which are being considered for continuation will be carried out. Indo-US 2+2 Dialogue (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests) The launch is a reflection of the shared commitment by Prime Minister Modi and President Trump to provide a positive, forward-looking vision for the India-U.S. strategic partnership and to promote synergy in their diplomatic and security efforts. They resolved to continue meetings in this format on an annual basis. Celebrating over 70 years of diplomatic cooperation, the Ministers reaffirmed their view that India and the United States, as sovereign democracies founded on the values of freedom, justice, and commitment to the rule of law, must continue to lead global efforts to promote peace, prosperity, and security. Recognizing their two countries are strategic partners, major and independent stakeholders in world affairs, the Ministers committed to work together on regional and global issues, including in bilateral, trilateral, and quadrilateral formats. The two sides further decided to establish secure communication between the Minister of External Affairs of India and the U.S. Secretary of State, and between the Minister of Defense of India and the U.S. Secretary of Defense, to help maintain regular high-level communication on emerging developments. Strengthening the Defense and Security Partnership: The Ministers reaffirmed the strategic importance of India’s designation as a Major Defense Partner (MDP) of the United States and committed to expand the scope of India’s MDP status and take mutually agreed upon steps to strengthen defense ties further and promote better defense and security coordination and cooperation. They welcomed the inclusion of India by the United States among the top tier of countries entitled to license-free exports, re-exports, and transfers under License Exception Strategic Trade Authorization (STA-1) and also committed to explore other means to support further expansion in two-way trade in defense items and defense manufacturing supply chain linkages. They welcomed the signing of a Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) that will facilitate access to advanced defense systems and enable India to optimally utilize its existing U.S.-origin platforms. The Ministers also announced their readiness to begin negotiations on an Industrial Security Annex (ISA) that would support closer defense industry cooperation and collaboration. Recognizing their rapidly growing military-to-military ties, the two sides committed to the creation of a new, tri-services exercise and to further increase personnel exchanges between the two militaries and defense organizations. To encourage and prioritize co-production and co-development projects through the Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI), and to pursue other avenues of defense innovation cooperation. Partners in the Indo-Pacific and Beyond: Both sides committed to work together and in concert with other partners toward advancing a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, based on recognition of ASEAN centrality and on respect for sovereignty, territorial integrity, rule of law, good governance, free and fair trade, and freedom of navigation and overflight. Noting the importance of infrastructure and Connectivity for the Indo-Pacific region, both sides emphasized the need to work collectively with other partner countries to support transparent, responsible, and sustainable debt financing practices in infrastructure development. The Ministers reaffirmed their shared commitment to a united, sovereign, democratic, inclusive, stable, prosperous, and peaceful Afghanistan. The two sides expressed support for an Afghan-led, Afghan-owned peace and reconciliation process. India welcomed the recent U.S.-North Korea summit. The two sides pledged to work together to counter North Korea’s weapons of mass destruction programs and to hold accountable those countries that have supported them. The United States welcomed India’s accession to the Australia Group, the Wassenaar Arrangement, and the Missile Technology Control Regime and reiterated its full support for India’s immediate accession to the Nuclear Suppliers Group. Promoting Prosperity and People-to-People Ties: Both sides committed to further expanding and balancing the trade and economic partnership consistent with their leaders’ 2017 joint statement, including by facilitating trade, improving market access, and addressing issues of interest to both sides. Both sides looked forward to full implementation of the civil nuclear energy partnership and collaboration between Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and Westinghouse Electric Company for the establishment of six nuclear power plants in India. Observing the strong ties of family, education, and business, and the spirit of entrepreneurship and innovation that unite their people, the Ministers highlighted the unmatched people-to-people ties between their countries and recognized the benefits to both nations and the world from these ties, including the free flow of ideas and collaboration in health, space, oceans, and other areas of science and technology. Must Read: Link GS-3 Reducing Carbon Emission by Altering the Method of Farming (Topic: Agriculture, Environment) Initiative have been taken to make agriculture more adaptive and resilient to climate variability and in the process to reduce carbon emission. Soil, water and crop management practices that reduce carbon emission include: Increasing the area under System of Rice Intensification (SRI) as an alternative to transplanted paddy. Deployment of zero tillage drill machines and other residue management equipment which enable planting of rabi crop in the standing residue of rice crop to avoid its burning. Alternate wetting and drying, direct seeded rice system of rice cultivation, use of slow release nitrogen fertilizers, integrated nutrient management practices, leaf colour chart-based nitrogen application, use of urea super granules etc. Mandatory Neem coating of urea. Promotion of micro irrigation under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY)-Per Drop More Crop. Planting of trees under National Food Security Mission (NFSM), Bringing Green Revolution to Eastern India (BGREI), Sub-Mission on Agro Forestry (SMAF) and National Bamboo Mission (NBM). 45 models of Integrated Farming System (IFS) have been developed for replication in Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) and in the States for enabling climate resilient agriculture. Climate resilient villages have been developed by Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), one in each of 151 districts. Climate Vulnerability Atlas has been prepared under National Innovations in Climate Resilient Agriculture (NICRA). District Agriculture Contingency Plans have been developed for 633 districts in order to give real time agro advisories for overcoming climate risks. National Bamboo Mission (NBM) (Topic: Schemes and policies under Agriculture) The scheme aims to supplement farm income of farmers with focus on the development of complete value chain of bamboo sector to link growers with consumers. Major objectives of the Mission are: To increase the area under bamboo plantation in non-forest Government and private lands to supplement farm income and contribute towards resilience to climate change as well as availability of quality raw material requirement of industries. To improve post-harvest management through establishment of innovative primary processing units near the source of production, primary treatment and seasoning plants, preservation technologies and market infrastructure. To promote product development keeping in view market demand, by assisting R&D, entrepreneurship & business models at micro small and medium levels and feed bigger industry. To rejuvenate the under developed bamboo industry in India. To promote skill development capacity building, awareness generation for development of bamboo sector from production to market demand. To re-align efforts so as to reduce dependency on import of bamboo and bamboo products by way of improved productivity and suitability of domestic raw material for industry, so as to enhance income of the primary producers. Prelims oriented News: 1st rank in ‘Swachh Survekshan’ 2017: Indore Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) was established in National Housing Bank (NHB) with an objective to improve the affordability of the target group to own their homes. The “Ease of Living” Index is an initiative of the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs to help cities assess their liveability vis-à-vis global and national benchmarks and encourage cities to move towards an ‘outcome-based’ approach to urban planning and management. CITIIS (Cities Investments to Innovate Integrate and Sustain) was launched in partnership with Agence Française de Développement (AFD) and European Union. A Loan of EUR 100 million will be extended by AFD which shall be given as a grant to Smart Cities for implementation of 15 innovative projects selected through the All-India Challenge. The projects would be in four sectors- sustainable mobility, public open spaces, urban governance & ICT and social and organizational innovation in low-income settlements. Technical support with global expertise will be provided for preparation and implementation of selected demonstrative projects. Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, 2016 (RERA): The core objective of this transformative legislation is to ensure regulation and promotion of real estate sector in an efficient manner and to protect the interest of home buyers. Municipal bonds are an important instrument to mobilise financial resources for investment in Urban Infrastructure. I-Metros (Indian Metro Rail Organisations’ Society) - a platform to exchange ideas, pooling of knowledge and sharing of experience, best practices, innovations etc. among the Indian metro rail companies to nurture excellence in performance Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana - National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM) is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme being implemented in the statutory towns in the country for reducing the poverty and vulnerability of urban poor households since April 2014. The primary target of DAY-NULM is urban poor, including urban homeless & urban street vendors and emphasis is laid on mobilisation of vulnerable sections of urban population into Self Help Groups (SHGs). The World Bank has recently released the Doing Business Report (DBR) 2019 and the country’s rank in Construction Permits indicator has gone up to 52 from 181, a year ago. This could be possible due to the reforms implemented and consistent efforts of the Municipal Corporations of Delhi and Mumbai in facilitating Ease of Doing Business in construction permits. National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) to enhance the experience of religious tourists visiting prominent heritage sites is being implemented in 12 cities, namely, Ajmer, Amaravati, Amritsar, Badami, Dwaraka, Gaya, Kancheepuram, Mathura, Puri, Varanasi, Velankanni and Warangal. Setting up of two Defence Production Corridors: One each in Uttar Pradesh (UP) and Tamil Nadu INSV Tarini: The first-ever all-women crew circumnavigated the globe in an indigenously built 56-foot Indian Navy Sailing Vessel Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) 'Tejas': India joined the elite group of nation which have developed the Air-to-Air refuelling system for military class aircraft when Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) 'Tejas' successfully completed mid-air refuelling trial by wet (actual) engagement, transferring 1,900 kgs fuel from IAF IL78 mid-air refuelling tanker Mission Raksha Gyan Shakti: To migrate from the culture of seeking Transfer of Technology (ToT) from foreign sources to generating Intellectual Property in India, to achieve the goal of self-reliance in Defence sector. Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) a scheme of Department of Defence Production (DDP), formulated in collaboration with Start Up India and Atal Innovation Mission, with the objective of bringing Start-ups to solve problems of defence production, innovate new technologies required by defence forces and reduce dependence on imported technology. iDEX is aimed at creation of an ecosystem to foster innovation and technology development in Defence and Aerospace by engaging Industries including MSMEs, Start-ups, Individual Innovators, R&D institutes and Academia and provide them grants/funding and other support to carry out R&D. ShaGun (from the words Shaala and Gunvatta) which has two parts i.e., one is a Repository of good practices, photographs, videos, studies, newspaper articles etc on elementary education, State /UT wise has been developed. Its purpose is to showcase success stories and also to provide a platform for all stakeholders to learn from each other, and instill a positive competitive spirit among all the States and UTs. The second part is the online monitoring module of Shagun which measures state-level performance and progress against key educational indicators which enables the Government of India and the State and UT Departments of education to conduct real-time assessments which normal paper-based monitoring mechanisms did not allow. Through Shagun, the data collection and reporting processes have been simplified; resulting in a totally transparent and efficient system. Shaala Siddhi is a School Standards and Evaluation Framework, developed by the National University of Educational Planning and Administration (NUEPA), which enables the schools to self-evaluate based on seven key domains. e-PATHSHALA: a single point repository of e resources containing NCERT textbooks and various other learning resources has been developed for showcasing and disseminating all educational resources including textbooks, audio, video, periodicals, and a variety of other print and non-print materials. Diksha Portal: The portal envisages to help teachers boost their teaching skills and create their own separate profile with their skills and knowledge, and help in improving quality of education with use of latest technologies in education sector. Rashtriya Gokul Mission: Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries has been implementing Rashtriya Gokul Mission with the aim of development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds. Comprehensive Handloom Cluster Development Scheme: Under the CHCDS, need based funding is provided for various interventions like technology upgradation, product development, setting up of Value Addition Centre, Common Facility Centre (CFC), Marketing Complex, Dye House and Corpus Fund for Yarn Depot Under the scheme, various projects like setting up of Common Facility Centre, Dye House, Garmenting Unit, Silk Spinning Unit, Automatic Silk Reeling Unit etc. have been taken up in Public Private Partnership (PPP) mode, which are functional. The scheme is under implementation in eight mega handloom Clusters i.e. Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Sivasagar (Assam), Virudhanagar (Tamil Nadu), Murshidabad (West Bengal), Prakasam & Guntur districts (Andhra Pradesh), Godda & neighbouring districts (Jharkhand), Bhagalpur (Bihar) and Trichy (Tamil Nadu). BhoomiRashi portal: In the past years, acquisition of land for the purpose of National Highway projects, payment of compensation to the land owners etc were done manually by physical movement of documents in the form of files. However, in that procedure some constraints viz. delay in issuing notification, errors in the land/area details etc were being faced. In order to overcome these issues, to cut short delays and avoid parking of public funds with the Competent Authority for Land Acquisition (CALA), Ministry has developed a web-based Utility –BhoomiRashi to fully digitize and automate the entire process of land acquisition. With the operation of this Portal, the land acquisition process has been expedited significantly, become error-free and more transparent and the notifications at every stage are being processed on real time basis. While the physical processing of the cases usually took considerable time, ranging from weeks to even months, and there were errors whose rectification caused further delays, the processing time using this portal has been reduced to less than two weeks in a majority of cases and even a few days in some cases. Samagra Shiksha scheme focuses on improvement of quality of education by providing support for different interventions like; in-service training of teachers and schools heads, conduct of achievement surveys at National and State level, provision of textbooks as per Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009, remedial teaching for academically weaker students, ICT and digital initiatives, vocational education, composite school grant to every school for providing a conducive learning environment has been increased and from this year provisions for library grants and grants for sports and physical education have also been introduced. Geographical Indications (GIs) are registered as per the provisions of the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration & Protection) Act, 1999. As on 24.12.2018, 330 GIs have been registered. GIs have been defined under Article 22(1) of the WTO Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS) Agreement as: "Indications which identify a good as originating in the territory of a member, or a region or a locality in that territory, where a given quality, reputation or characteristic of the good is essentially attributable to its geographic origin." The GI tag ensures that none other than those registered as authorised users (or at least those residing inside the geographic territory) are allowed to use the popular product name. Darjeeling tea became the first GI tagged product in India, in 2004-05 List of GI products from India The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP): A proposed Free Trade Agreement between ten ASEAN member states and their six Free Trade Agreement (FTA) partners namely India, Australia, China, Japan, New Zealand and Republic of Korea Expected to provide market access for India’s goods and services exports and encourage greater investments and technology into India. It would also facilitate India’s MSMEs to effectively integrate into the regional value and supply chains. India is not a member of the Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) which is a grouping of twenty-one countries in the Asia Pacific region with an aim to deepen and strengthen economic and technological cooperation amongst APEC member countries. INDO-France Pact for Sustainable Development India and France are today the leading nations in the fight against climate change. The joint hosting by India and France of the Founding Conference of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) on 11th March 2018 in New Delhi and the first General Assembly in New Delhi from 2nd to 5th October 2018 has bolstered our joint resolve to fight climate change. The second India-France Dialogue on Africa, which took place on 11th December 2018, provided both countries an opportunity to exchange views on the latest developments in Africa as well as to explore possibilities for joint endeavour to contribute towards peace, stability and prosperity in Africa. Ministry of Food Processing Industries Mega Food Parks: Mega Food Parks create modern infrastructure facilities for food processing along the value chain from farm to market with strong forward and backward linkages through a cluster-based approach. Common facilities and enabling infrastructure is created at Central Processing Centre and facilities for primary processing and storage is created near the farm in the form of Primary Processing Centers (PPCs) and Collection Centers (CCs). Integrated Cold Chain: Ministry of Food Processing Industries is implementing the Scheme of Integrated Cold Chain and Value Addition Infrastructure as one of the component of Pradhan Mantri Kisan SampadaYojana with the objective of arresting post-harvest losses of horticulture & non-horticulture produce and providing remunerative price to farmers for their produce. The integrated cold chain and preservation infrastructure can be set up by individuals, groups of entrepreneurs, cooperative societies, Self Help Groups (SHGs), Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), NGOs, Central/State PSUs, etc.

Jan 7, 2019 AIR

All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - G-20 Summit and the changing Global Scenario

G-20 Summit and the changing Global Scenario ARCHIVES Search 1st December, 2018 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Audio-Archive-Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. G20: The G20 (or Group of Twenty) is an international forum for the governments and central bank governors from 19 countries and the European Union. It was founded in 1999 with the aim to discuss policy pertaining to the promotion of international financial stability. India: Member of G20 Other members: The G20, short for "Group of 20", is made up of 19 countries: Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom and the United States, plus the European Union. Spain is a permanent guest and always participates in the G20 summits. Together, the G20 members represent – Two thirds of the world population. 85% of the global gross product. 75% of international trade. 80% of global investments in research and development. Because the G-20 is a forum, its agreements or decisions have no legal impact, but they do influence countries’ policies and global cooperation. Why was the G20 created? The G20 was conceived in 1999, while the repercussions of the Asian financial crisis of 1997 still lasted. The committee’s inaugural meeting took place in Berlin in December 1999. In a meeting of finance ministers and presidents of central banks of the G7, it was decided to expand the group and make it more representative in order to generate policies that have an impact In the economy. They decided to invite a group of key emerging economies to a new forum of finance ministers and presidents of Central Banks, which would later become the G20. With the start of the global financial crisis of 2008, the G20 became the main instrument to face the debacle. And for that it was essential to involve the highest ranking officials. Thereafter, presidents and heads of state joined the G20. What impact does the G20 have? The G20 is the most important forum for international cooperation. During the meetings, the main challenges of the world are discussed and the main policies are coordinated at the global level. In the face of an uncertain international context, international cooperation is key, and thus the G20 acquires even more relevance. The main achievements of the G20 include: The increased participation of emerging countries in global issues, The reform of international financial institutions, The monitoring of national financial institutions, The improvement in the regulations of the economies whose problems led to the crisis and the creation of safety nets to prevent problems in the future. The G20 also specifically helped to provide emergency funds during the 2008 crisis and plays an important role in financing for development. The Way Ahead: G20 members should start by endorsing the terms of reference of the G20 trade and investment working group (TIWG), and define it as a sustainable platform for trade and investment cooperation. Will show the existence of a consensus on the value and potential of a trade and investment working mechanism. Will be effective in helping trade ministers reach agreements on various important issues. Leaders at the G20 Summit should inject a stronger political impetus for trade and investment cooperation by highlighting a few key principles and frameworks. Trade ministers have made progress in agreeing on a couple of substantial issues, including plans to combat trade restrictive measures, to increase the coherence of trade and investment policies, and to enhance the transparency of regional trade agreements. Ensure there are regular interactions between G20 officials and independent, specialized experts. They bring and generate independent and global views. Participating officials and experts do not represent their countries or institutions; instead, they are global citizens discussing possible trade and investment cooperation under the G20 in a free and non-negotiating environment. This helps G20 officials prepare for the TIWG with a clear global picture in addition to their own countries’ perspective. These interactions provide specialized expertise. There have been so many new developments in such a short space of time in the area of trade and investment, which means there’s a real need for a safe space for mutual learning between officials and experts. Note: India will chair the G20 in 2022. The G20 Troika: Every year, when a new country assumes the presidency (Argentina in 2018), it works hand in hand with the previous presidency (Germany) and the next presidency (Japan) in what is known as the troika. This ensures continuity in the group’s agenda. Where is the G20 headquarters? The G20 does not have permanent offices or employees. The country that presides over the group (in a year) takes care of all the organization and the logistical coordination of the meetings. Connecting the Dots: Is G20 really what the world really needs? Or is this merely a club where leaders meet annually to issue insipid and irrelevant communiqués? Examine Note: For the first time, India will host the annual G20 summit in 2022, coinciding with the country's 75th anniversary of Independence. Connecting the Dots: Despite passing more than a decade of its establishment, the G-20 organisation has not been successful to attain its purpose and objectives. Critically comment with suitable examples. Even though the G20 platform is meant to promote global economic recovery, promote sustainable development and discuss the roadmap for combating climate change, the recent terrorist attacks have brought terrorism at the forefront of discussions. It only shows that global prosperity and development is possible only in an atmosphere of peace and harmony. Comment.

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