UPSC Quiz - 2020: IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 106 Archives Important Note Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :) To take the Test - Click Here
Lost in Thoughts: There are two states in which we can live in: We can either be lost in our thoughts or we can be aware of what we are doing. Being lost in thought is the more common of the two. Just take a walk in the city and “people-watch” for five minutes. Interpret nothing, and don’t look for anything in particular - just watch people. If you observe closely, you will see that no one is aware of what they are doing - No one! People are walking, but they are not aware of their walking. People are talking, but they are not aware of their talking. So much life is happening around you, and yet the very life that is going through the process of living is totally oblivious of the fact that it is alive. Everyone is simply lost in thoughts. We are all, in one sense, sleepwalkers. To understand this a little better, let us reflect on the process of sleeping. When you go to sleep—you become unconscious of your body and drift into thoughts. As long as you are asleep, you are not aware of your body; you are just lost in thoughts. Now think about the wakeful state. During daytime, when you’re supposedly awake, something triggers a thought process and for the next 15 or 20 minutes you drift in your thoughts, becoming unaware of your body. Now, going by the definition of sleep, this is also sleep. Remember, sleep is not unconsciousness. Sleep is a state where you are unconscious of your body. You don’t recognize drifting in thoughts during the day as sleep because it’s kind of scary to think this way. But in reality, you drop your body consciousness when you drift into thoughts, which is nothing but the process of going into sleep. The only time you aren’t asleep is when you are in the present moment, being fully awake to what is happening around you. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Meditation Farm and IASBABA.”
Merger of Banks ARCHIVES Search 3rd September 2019 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 3: Bank merger and issues related to it. Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. In News: Finance minister Nirmala Sitharaman had announced the consolidation of 10 state-run lenders into four bigger banks. The merger announcement was followed by a move to infuse equity of Rs 55,250 crore in these banks to enable them grow their loan book. Instead of privatising some of these banks or bringing in strategic investors, the government decided that amalgamation is the “best route” to achieve banking sector scale and to support the target of achieving a $5-trillion economic size for India in five years The earlier merger of Bank of Baroda, Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank led to enhanced customization and rationalization of operations without any retrenchment. CASA (current and savings account) growth is 6.9% in the June quarter; retail loan growth is 20.5%, while profitability is around ₹710 crore. PNB, Oriental Bank of Commerce (OBC) and United Bank of India (UBI) will be merged to form the second-largest state-run bank in the country, with a business of ₹17.95 trillion (loans plus deposits) and will be at least 1.5 times that of PNB. The other merger will be between Canara Bank and Syndicate Bank, which will make the fourth-largest bank, with ₹15.2 trillion business. Also, Union Bank will be merged with Andhra Bank and Corporation Bank to build India’s fifth-largest public sector bank with ₹14.59 trillion in business. Indian Bank will be merged with Allahabad Bank to make India’s seventh-largest PSB with a business of ₹8.08 trillion. India’s PSB count has now come down from 27 in 2017 to 12. Logic behind the Merger The government’s move to merger state-owned banks aims to cut operational costs and achieve global scale to support fresh investments, revive growth and meet the National Democratic Alliance’s (NDA’s) target to become a $5 trillion economy in the next five years. The proposed mergers of public sector banks initiated by the government will be a win-win for the account holders as they will be able to avail benefit from the best practices of all three lenders. The mergers should help create stronger institutions thereby leading to efficiencies of scale and stronger balance sheets. Large banks will entail cost advantages by way of economies of scale such as centralised back office processing, elimination of branch overlap, eliminating redundancies in administrative infrastructure, better manpower planning, optimum funds management, and savings in IT and other fixed costs. Large banks will also be able to finance large projects on their own even while staying within the prudential lending norms imposed by the regulator. Some of the concerns Integration of information technology platforms: Integration of technology platform is a crucial factor towards merger of any bank. Punjab National Bank (PNB) currently uses software Finacle 10, while the two other banks use Finacle 7. Management attention and bandwidth of the entities being merged could get split impacting the loan growth and reduce focus on strengthening asset quality in the short term. Unlikely to revive credit flow: The merger of 10 public sector banks (PSBs) into four entities is unlikely to revive credit growth or have meaningful cost synergies, said a report by Credit Suisse. The merger is also unlikely to meaningfully revive the flow of credit to the liquidity pressed non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) as given the already high share of NBFC exposure in constituent banks, all four merged entities will have more than 10% of their loan exposure towards NBFCs. Too big to fail: The financial sector is all inter-connected and a risk in any part of the system is a risk to the entire system. If a large bank were to fail, it could bring down the whole financial sector with it, as was evident from the near death experience following the collapse of Lehman Brothers in 2008, which triggered the global financial crisis. No country can therefore afford the failure of a big bank. The tacit knowledge that the sovereign will be forced to rescue it encourages irresponsible behaviour by big banks. The administrative and logistic challenges of mergers might end up diverting the mind space of bank managements away from their most pressing task at the moment — of managing the NPAs and aggressively looking for lending opportunities. Conclusion: We will become a $5-trillion economy not by growing at our current potential growth rate but by raising it. That requires structural reforms. Structural measures will take time to work their way through the system. Connecting the Dots: The origin of PSU banking in India was political through an ordinance, its evolution has been political and its future will perhaps be determined by political and economic considerations. Discuss. The nexus between businessmen and politicians is based on a classic exchange of favours: The former help the latter to get access to credit in return for funds for election campaigns. Comment. What are the structural reforms that the Government needs to take to ensure that India reaches the $5-trillion mark? Enumerate.
IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 2nd November 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Health emergency declared in the Capital Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III – Environment In News The Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority declared a public health emergency in the Capital as pollution levels entered the ‘severe plus’ category According to the data provided by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the overall AQI score of Delhi was 504 which prompted the authorities to consider it as public health emergency as it will have adverse health impacts on all, particularly our children The deterioration in air quality is due to a combination of accumulated toxins because of local pollution, further spiked by bursting of crackers on Deepavali, stubble burning and extremely adverse weather conditions. People are facing symptoms associated with pollution like irritation in the eyes and throat, dry skin, skin allergies, chronic cough and breathlessness EPCA is a Supreme Court-mandated body that has over a dozen members. It was notified in 1998 by the Union Environment Ministry under the Environment Protection Act. Mekedatu Reservoir Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Federalism In News The Mekedatu Reservoir project envisages building a balancing reservoir in Cauvery River with storage of 67 tmcft. It would also supply drinking water to Bengaluru and Ramanagaram districts, besides generating power. The proposal received the Karnataka Cabinet’s approval in February 2017 and the feasibility report was submitted to the Central Water Commission (CWC). CWC has allowed Karnataka to go ahead with the project with the prerequisite that it should get No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA). After obtaining NOC from CWMA, the proposal will be considered by Advisory Committee of the Ministry of Jal Shakti, whose concurrence is mandatory for a project on any inter-State river. Karnataka has been contending for the project to help store excess water in Monsoon surplus year. Tamil Nadu has been opposing the project that it would effectively prevent the flow in the Cauvery, the lifeline for agriculture in delta districts, besides being a major drinking water source for several districts. About Cauvery Water Management Authority The CWMA, under the Cauvery Water Management Scheme, 2018, was established one June 1, 2018, under Section 6A of the Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956. Mandate of CWMA: To give effect to the decision of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal as modified by the Supreme Court vide its Order, dated 16th February, 2018 Storage, apportionment, regulation and control of Cauvery waters, supervision of operation of reservoirs and regulation of water release. CHAVANG KUT Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains I - Culture In News Chavang Kut, the post-harvest festival of the Kuki-Chin-Mizo communities is being celebrated across North-Eastern states with traditional gaiety and enthusiasm. The festival marks the Anglo-Kuki war centenary year. Chavang stands for ‘autumn’ and Kut mean ‘harvest’. The festival is observed to mark the end of the harvesting season and also to thank deities for a good harvest season. In Manipur, Mizoram and Assam and other parts of country, the festival is organized every year on the first day of November month. It is a state holiday in Manipur. Manipur is home to 29 tribes and it celebrates a number of traditional festivals. Such events not only highlight the vibrant colors of the region, but also play an important role in strengthening bonds between different tribes INDIA GERMANY RELATIONS Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II – International relations In News German Federal Chancellor Angela Merkel visited India from 31 October - 1 November 2019 for the fifth round of Inter-Governmental Consultations (IGC). Chancellor Merkel and PM Modi reiterated that the Indo-German Strategic Partnership is based on the common values and principles of democracy, free and fair trade and rules-based international order. They welcomed the success of the ‘Make in India Mittelstand’ (MIIM) Programme which has helped facilitate over 135 German Mittelstand and family-owned companies They acknowledged the successful work under the German Indian Startup Exchange Program and welcomed the introduction of a new German Accelerator (GA) programme "Next Step India”, which could lead to a full programme for German Startups in India. Agreements/MOUs signed Joint Declaration of Intent on: Consultations for the period 2020-2024; Indo-German Partnership for Green Urban Mobility; Cooperation in R&D on Artificial Intelligence; cooperation in the field of prevention of marine litter and Cooperation within the International Smart Cities Network. MoU for Cooperation in Inland, Coastal and Maritime Technology MoU on Establishment of an Academic Collaboration in Ayurveda, Yoga and Meditation. MoU between National Institute of Agricultural Extension Management MANAGE and the German Agricultural Academy DEULA in the city of Nienburg on collaboration in agricultural technical and professional training. Women to be inducted in Army by end-2021 Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-I- Society (Women Empowerment) In News The first batch of 100 women will start training for the Corps of Military Police (CMP) in December and will be inducted by end-2021 Women will be inducted in a graded manner to eventually comprise 20 per cent of total Corps of Military Police and their role will range from probing crime cases to assisting the army in field operations wherever required. So far, women were being inducted only as officers and this is the first time they would be joining the Army as the soldiers or “personnel below officer rank” The Army plans to induct 1700 women Military Police over 17 years Inducting women in combat roles came up in 2015 after Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced that the government has taken a "historic" decision to induct women in the Military Police with an aim to enhance their representation in the three services. According to government data, the Army has 3.80 per cent of its workforce as women, the Air Force has 13.09 per cent and the Navy six per cent. TRAI fixes ring timings for mobiles, landlines Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III – Infrastructure (Communications) In News In a new regulation, the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI), has fixed the ring time for calls made to mobiles at 30 seconds, and those made to landlines at 60 seconds While this is a matter which directly impacts the experience of a mobile phone user, the reduction in ringing time also affects the revenue of the operator. The operators pay each other an interconnection charge (currently 6 paise/min). The charge is paid by the operator whose customers make a call to the operator whose subscribers receive a call. In case of a shorter ringing time, a user may miss the call and may need to call the other user back. Hence, making the operator with a ‘shorter ringing time’ gain in interconnection charges. Last month, Bharti Airtel had cut the ringing time for calls made by its subscribers to 25 seconds from about 45 seconds, in retaliation to a similar move by rival Reliance Jio. The rules by TRAI bring to an end a face-off between two major operators Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) It is a statutory body set up by the Government of India under section 3 of the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997. TRAI is an independent regulator of Telecom Business in India. Aims to regulate telecom services, including fixation/revision of tariffs for telecom services which were earlier vested in the Central Government. It also regularly issues orders and directions on various subjects such as tariffs, quality of service, interconnections, Direct To Home (DTH) services and mobile number portability. Telecommunications Dispute Settlement and Appellate Tribunal (TDSAT) The TRAI Act was amended by an ordinance, effective from 24 January 2000, establishing a TDSAT to take over the adjudicatory and disputes functions from TRAI. TDSAT was set up to adjudicate any dispute between a licensor and a licensee, between two or more service providers, between a service provider and a group of consumers, and to hear and dispose of appeals against any direction, decision or order of TRAI Joblessness rises to 3-year high Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III – Economy In News India’s unemployment rate in October rose to 8.5%, the highest level since August 2016, according to data released by the Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) According to CMIE, the urban unemployment rate for October 2019 stood at 8.9%, slightly higher than the rural unemployment rate of 8.3%. Among States, Tripura and Haryana saw unemployment levels of more than 20% (the highest), while the unemployment was the lowest in Tamil Nadu at 1.1% The CMIE’s figures are in line with the findings of the latest Periodic Labour Force Survey, which had estimated an unemployment rate of 6.1% between July 2017 and June 2018, the worst in 45 years. While employment has been declining, the number of working age people who are “Not in Labour Force, Education and Training” has continued to increase — from about 84 million in 2011-12, it has now crossed 100 million About CMIE It is a leading business information company (privately owned). It was established in 1976, primarily as an independent think tank. CMIE has a presence over the entire information food-chain - from large scale primary data collection and information product development through analytics and forecasting. Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Earlier, the NSSO used to conduct labour surveys quinquennially (5-year).Moreover, the five-yearly surveys used to come with a lag of over one or two years, thus reducing the possibility of timely analysis As the domestic labour market is becoming increasingly sensitive to national and global economic factors, policymakers felt the need to construct labour statistics at more frequent intervals. To fulfil this objective, the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) was initiated by the NSSO beginning April 2017. The PLFS is a continuous survey for generating estimates of labour force indicators on a quarterly basis for urban areas and on an annual basis for both rural and urban areas. Electoral bonds Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II – Elections In News Electoral bonds worth ₹232 crore were sold in October, taking the total number of bonds sold from March 2018 till October 2019 to 12,313 and the total value to ₹6,128 crore, according to data shared by the Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR) After the Lok Sabha election in May, bonds worth ₹45 crore and ₹232 crore were sold in July and October, respectively. In the run-up to the Lok Sabha election, bonds worth ₹822 crore, ₹2,256 crore and ₹1,366 crore were sold in May, April and March, Mumbai had the highest amount of bonds at ₹1,880 crore, followed by Kolkata at ₹1,440 crore, Delhi at ₹919 crore and Hyderabad at ₹838 crore, while all other cities accounted for ₹1,051 crore from March 2018 till October 2019, Notified in January 2018, the scheme has been offered in 12 tranches from March 2018 till October 2019. The bonds are sold by the State Bank of India and can be bought by Indian citizens or companies. Political parties can then redeem the bonds, which work as anonymous donations For mindmap on Electoral bonds, refer https://iasbaba.com/2018/01/iasbabas-mindmap-issue-electoral-bonds/ (MAINS FOCUS) POLITY TOPIC: General Studies 2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Context: Deadline approaches for the negotiations on the final agreement under the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) as the RCEP countries are expected to finalise in November 2019 The final ministerial meeting prior to that concluded recently, but with no final agreement in place. The Leaders Summit, in which Prime Minister Narendra Modi is taking part, will to be held on November 4 in Bangkok, Thailand. [caption id="attachment_52107" align="aligncenter" width="420"] Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 2nd November 2019[/caption] Img: https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/0/01/RCEP.png/500px-RCEP.png Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP): The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) between the ten member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) and its six FTA partners (China, Japan, India, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand). RCEP negotiations started in November 2012 at the ASEAN Summit in Cambodia. RCEP member states accounted for a population of 3.5 billion people with a total (GDP) of $49.5 trillion, approximately 39 percent of the world's GDP RCEP will be the world's largest economic bloc. Potential benefits: Brings stability to trade relations Open up markets of each of the partner countries to the others Disadvantages: At a time when the U.S. and China are involved in a trade war, a trade grouping with China would mean that the other countries, including India, would be forced to take China’s side against the U.S. US and India are currently in talks on a bilateral trade deal, which could be put at risk India’s issues with RCEP: RCEP would give China greater access to India markets. Cheap imports from China have already been impacting India’s domestic industry India, under the agreement may reduce duties on 80% of items imported from China. Under this agreement, India would have to cut duties on 86% of imports from Australia and New Zealand India would have to cut duties on 90% for products from ASEAN, Japan and South Korea. There is the fear that companies might be forced to transfer huge royalty sums to foreign partners, instead of paying dividends to Indian shareholders. India would not be able to pursue its data localisation plans. Way forward: India should make clear its stance and stick to it. If it is joining, it should say so and reassure other countries, which would possibly reduce friction during negotiations. If India is not going to join the group, experts say it should stick to the decision and not change its mind later. Connecting the dots: RCEP will be the world's largest economic bloc, covering nearly half of the global economy. Analyse ENVIRONMENT TOPIC: General Studies 3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Air pollution in Delhi (part 1) Context: All schools in Delhi will be shut until (November 5) ,after the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA) ordered a complete shutdown of construction in Delhi, Noida, Gurgaon, Ghaziabad and Greater Noida. The action is part of a series of incremental steps to be taken under the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Why? PM 2.5 concentration breached the 300 micrograms per cubic metre mark in the morning. PM( particulate matter): Mixture of solid particles and liquid droplets found in the air. Some particles, such as dust, dirt, soot, or smoke, are large or dark enough to be seen with the naked eye. Others are so small they can only be detected using an electron microscope. Particle Matter includes: PM10 : inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 10 micrometers and smaller; and PM2.5 : fine inhalable particles, with diameters that are generally 2.5 micrometers and smaller. [caption id="attachment_52108" align="aligncenter" width="436"] Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 2nd November 2019[/caption] Img: https://www.epa.gov/sites/production/files/2016-09/pm2.5_scale_graphic-color_2.jpg Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): It was approved by the Supreme Court in 2016, and notified in 2017. It comprises a series of measures that come into force incrementally as pollution increases. GRAP is an emergency measure. When the air quality moves from the ‘Poor’ to the ‘Very poor’ category, the measures listed under both categories (‘Poor’ as well as ‘Very poor’) have to be followed. If air quality reaches the ‘Severe+’ stage, GRAP mandates that schools must be shut down, and the odd-even road-space rationing scheme must be implemented. Air pollution in India: Estimated to kill 1.5 million people every year India has the world's highest death rate from chronic respiratory diseases and asthma, according to the WHO. Air pollution in Delhi: In Delhi, poor quality air irreversibly damages the lungs of 2.2 million or 50 percent of all children The air quality in Delhi, according to a WHO survey of 1600 world cities, is the worst of any major city in the world. Air quality index of Delhi is generally Moderate (101-200) level between January to September, and then it drastically deteriorates to Very Poor (301-400), Severe (401-500) or Hazardous (500+) levels in three months between October to December, due to various factors including stubble burning, fire crackers burning during Diwali and cold weather Connecting the dots: Nation's capital is called as a "gas chamber". Critically analyse (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 about ‘Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA)’ It was constituted with the objective of ‘protecting and improving’ the quality of the environment and ‘controlling environmental pollution’ in the National Capital Region. It was constituted at the behest of the Supreme Court. It is mandated to enforce Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) as per the pollution levels. Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) CHAVANG KUT is a festival celebrated predominantly in which regions/state of India? Jammu & Kashmir Manipur Rajasthan None of the above Q.3) Mekedatu project often seen in news is being planned across which river? Godavari Narmada Barak Cauvery Q.4) Consider the following statements about Electoral Bonds It can be purchased from any of the Domestic Systemically Important Banks (D-SIBs) Interest will be given by the banks on these bonds. Electoral bonds will be valid till next Lok Sabha elections from the date of purchase. Which of the following statements is/are not correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.5) Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) is conducted by which body/organisation? NITI Aayog CMIE (Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy) NSSO (National Sample Survey Office) None of the above MUST READ From bad to worse: On core sector output The Hindu The perils of post-370 diplomacy The Hindu In WhatsApp breach, follow the money trail The Hindu Bill for speedy resolution of water disputes should factor in recent SC verdicts IE On socio-economic indicators, Muslim youth fare worse than SCs and OBCs IE
UPSC Quiz - 2020: IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 105 Archives Important Note Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :) To take the Test - Click Here
Jerusalem: James Carroll Perhaps, there is no other place in history that is as steeped in religious, political and historical significance as Jerusalem. Considered as the birth place of three of the world’s largest Abrahamic religions, Judaism, Islam and Christianity, Jerusalem and its history, in some ways, is the history of the world’s greatest religions. James Carroll illuminates the complex past of Jerusalem as a city, spiritual and religious destination, and a political conflict zone for generations. This book is thorough and filled with immaculate details about some of the most important events in world history. The core conflict between the three monotheistic religions, Judaism, Islam and Christianity has its common roots in the history of Jerusalem. This book helps one to understand the primary reason for conflict, the splitting up of the religions and the spiritual and political motivations behind them. Jerusalem is steeped in mystery and shrouded in conflicting stories and ideologies. James Carroll does a stupendous job of unraveling the mystery of this place layer by layer. If one is interested in knowing more about the origin of conflict in religions, situations and circumstances responsible for the conflict, one has to read Jerusalem.
Incentives to Boost Export ARCHIVES Search 15th September 2019 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. In News: Incentives announced by the government will help in boosting the country's exports at a time when there are signs of worsening global economic conditions and it will help in boosting outbound shipments, according to exporters. The new measures announced for the sector in form of incentives and refund of taxes will not only go a long way in enhancing the growth prospects in the short-term but will also give it a much needed boost in the medium-term and long-term. There are two big roadblocks to expansion of global trade today – Lack of easy availability of working capital Inefficiencies and delay The government is focusing to provide solution for both these issues. The usage of technology to reduce the time to export and make export more seamless is a good initiative that would help make our exports more competitive What has been introduced? Giving three months lead time till 31st December to the existing incentive scheme MEIS (Exports from India Scheme) will remove the uncertainty creeping in the minds of the exporters and will greatly help to finalise their export orders Extending the scheme of reimbursement of taxes and duties for export promotion Fully automated electronic refund for Input Tax Credits (ITC) in GST; aimed at quick and automated refunds of ITC. Revised priority sector lending norms for exports Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) will expand the scope of export credit insurance service (ECIS) to offer higher insurance cover to banks lending working capital for exports, is a step that should help MSMEs facing liquidity issues for exports. India to host Dubai-like shopping fest to boost exports: A Dubai-like mega shopping festival will facilitate exchange between global producers and consumers Scheme for Remission of Duties or Taxes on Export Product (RoDTEP) An inter-ministerial working group has also been formed to monitor export finance. The announcement comes in the backdrop of India's merchandise exports declining by 6.05 per cent to USD 26.13 billion in August compared to the year-ago month. Accordingly, the scheme for Remission of Duties or Taxes on Export Product (RoDTEP) was announced which will replace Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) for textiles. In effect, RoDTEP will more than adequately incentivise exporters than existing schemes put together. The new scheme of Remission of Duties or Taxes on Export Products (RoDTEP) with revenue burden of up to Rs 50,000 crore for the government, looks attractive as it will neutralise all duties and levies suffered by the export products. The new scheme will benefit the exporters, especially MSME exporters as well as encourage first time exporters to explore global opportunities Conclusion: The government must draw on its political capital to push through contentious reforms that address the deeper structural issues plaguing the economy. Even in the midst of a slowdown in global trade, India, which accounts for around 2 per cent of global trade, should look aggressively to expand its share. After all, in the current economic environment of subdued domestic demand and investment, exports could provide the much needed boost to growth. Connecting the Dots: Examine the impediments that have constrained the growth of exports in India. Suggest policy measures to address the same. .
IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 1st November 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) PEGASUS Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III- Cyber Security In News It has been reported that the popular messaging platform WhatsApp was used to spy on journalists and human rights activists in India earlier this year. The surveillance was carried out using an Israeli spyware tool called Pegasus. Most of those targeted in India were journalists, Dalit and human rights activists and lawyers. It has been developed by the Israeli cyberarms firm, NSO Group. The NSO Group is a Tel Aviv-based cyber-security company that specialises in “surveillance technology” and claims to help governments and law enforcement agencies across the world fight crime and terrorism. How does Pegasus come to your phone? The code is transmitted via WhatsApp call. The code enters the phone even if the call is not answered. What does it do? It sends the targets contacts, calls and messages to its controller. It can also turn the phone into a spy device by switching on the camera or microphone. BAMBOO TECHNOLOGY PARKS Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains I - Geography In News Union Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) announced that Bamboo Technology Parks would be set up in the two new Union Territories of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh. The Cane and Bamboo Technology Centre (CBTC) under North Eastern Council (NEC) will implement the project. the model for bamboo cultivation, harvesting and utilisation currently existing in the North Eastern Region shall be replicated in the two new Union Territories to give a fillip to the sector. The project for setting up three new Bamboo Technology Parks in Jammu, Srinagar and Leh would be in consonance with the National Bamboo Mission (NBM). A Bamboo Industrial Park has already been approved to be set up in the Dima Hasao district of Assam. Cyclone Maha Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-I - Geography In News The Lakshadweep Islands and, to a relatively lesser extent, the coastal districts of Kerala bore the brunt of Cyclone Maha, which continues to cut a furious swathe across the Arabian Sea. The depression that had developed in the Comorin Sea intensified into a cyclonic storm and will move along India's western coast without making landfall. IMD has advised fishermen not to venture out to the southeast and the east-central Arabian Sea during the period This is one of the rare occasions when there were two back-to-back cyclones in the Arabian Sea. Kyarr which was the strongest cyclone in the Arabian Sea in 12 years weakened into a ''severe cyclonic storm'' as it continues its movement towards the Oman coast. Do you Know? Kanyakumari was called Cape Comorin during British rule in India. Comorin is a ‘rocky mainland‘ on the Indian Ocean in the State of Tamil Nadu and located at the Southern Most tip of the Indian Subcontinent. Many call it KOODAL meaning it is situated at the Confluence of three oceans Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean. UNESCO Creative City Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II – International Affairs In News Two Indian cities has now been officially designated as a Unesco Creative City– Hyderabad in Gastronomy category, Mumbai in Film category. It is among the 66 new cities named by the Unesco in the list of new Creative Cities, which aims at pushing the Sustainable Development Goals through innovative thinking and action. The designation of Hyderabad in the creative cities’ list would bring new opportunities and turn the focus on the city’s rich culinary heritage and tradition. The industry employs 12% of the Hyderabad city’s population either directly or indirectly. UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) UCCN was created in 2004 to promote cooperation with and among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development. The 180 cities which currently make up this network work together towards a common objective: placing creativity and cultural industries at the heart of their development plans at the local level and cooperating actively at the international level. National Health Profile (NHP) 2019 Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II – Health In News NHP is an annual publication of the Central Bureau of Health Intelligence (CBHI) The NHP covers demographic, socio-economic, health status and health finance indicators, human resources in the health sector and health infrastructure. It is also an important source of information on various communicable and non-communicable diseases that are not covered under any other major programmes. Some of the key findings of the report are: Sex ratio (number of females per 1,000 males) in the country has improved from 933 in 2001 to 943 in 2011. In rural areas the sex ratio has increased from 946 to 949. The corresponding increase in urban areas has been of 29 points from 900 to 929. Kerala has recorded the highest sex ratio in respect of total population (1,084), rural population (1,078) and urban (1,091). The lowest sex ratio in rural areas has been recorded in Chandigarh (690) The estimated birth rate reduced from 25.8 in 2000 to 20.4 in 2016 while the death rate declined from 8.5 to 6.4 per 1,000 populations over the same period. The total fertility rate (average number of children that will be born to a woman during her lifetime) in 12 States has fallen below two children per woman and nine States have reached replacement levels of 2.1 and above. The total number of registered allopathic doctors (up to 2018) is 11,54,686. Number of dental surgeons registered with Central/State Dental Councils of India was 2,54,283. About Central Bureau of Health Intelligence (CBHI) CBHI is the National Nodal agency for Health Intelligence in the Directorate General of Health Services (Dte.GHS), Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, and Government of India. CBHI is committed to build an integrated health informatics platform which can provide reliable, accurate, and relevant national health information and enable evidence based policy formulation and decision making. Dharma Guardian-2019 Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III – Security In News The second edition of the bilateral annual military exercise 'Dharma Guardian-2019' between Indian and Japanese Army culminated on October 31 at the Counter Insurgency and Jungle Warfare School (CIJWS) at Vairengte in Mizoram. The primary focus of the exercise was to train and equip the contingents in counter-insurgency and counter- terrorism operations in mountainous terrain As part of the exercise, lectures, demonstrations and drills related to counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations were conducted Besides fostering mutual understanding and trust, the joint exercise marks reaffirmation of India and Japan to further bolster bilateral security and defence cooperation MPs grill officials on DNA Bill Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II – Health In News A parliamentary panel headed by MP Jairam Ramesh began hearing the contentious DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2019 with members grilling officials from the Department of Biotechnology on scope for violations of privacy in the proposed DNA data bank. The Bill seeks to create a national data bank, and regional data banks which will have DNA samples of undertrials, suspects, missing persons and unknown deceased persons. It has proposed DNA sampling and profiling of citizens accused of crime or reported missing, and storing their unique genetic information for administrative purposes. For more details on the bill, refer: https://iasbaba.com/2019/07/rstv-ias-upsc-dna-technology-bill/ (MAINS FOCUS) POLITY TOPIC: General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation Merger of BSNL and MTNL Context: The government decided to merge BSNL and MTNL In order to revive loss-making telecom PSUs BSNL and MTNL Revival package includes raising sovereign bonds, monetising assets and voluntary retirement scheme (VRS) for employees, MTNL will be merged with BSNL. Government wants to make the two state-owned telecom companies more competitive by putting in Rs 29,937 crore. Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL): State-owned telecommunications company headquartered in New Delhi. Incorporated on 1 October 2000 BSNL is the fourth largest mobile telephony provider in India BSNL is India's oldest communication service provider and its history can be traced back to the British era. After the bifurcation of post and Telegraph department in 1980s, the creation of Department of Telecom by 1990s eventually led to the emergence of the State owned telegraph and telephone company BSNL. BSNL shut down telegraph services on 15 July 2013. Mahanagar Telephone Nigam Limited (MTNL): MTNL is a state-owned telecommunications service provider in the metro cities of Mumbai and New Delhi in India and in Mauritius in Africa. The company had a monopoly in Mumbai and New Delhi until 1992 "Transparency makes us different" is the motto of the company The Government of India currently holds 57% stock in the company The company's shares are listed on Bombay Stock Exchange, London Stock Exchange and New York Stock Exchange. As of January 2019, it has 6.71 million subscribers Revival reasons: Telecom sector is facing financial stress due to stiff competition and reduction in tariffs. The competition in the mobile segment, high employee costs and absence of 4G services in the data-centric telecom market has eroded the competitive strength of BSNL and MTNL. Financial position of BSNL & MTNL: Losses continuously since 2009-10. BSNL has 1.65 lakh employees across India, and MTNL has 22,000. BSNL’s provisional loss was Rs 4,859 crore in 2015-16, Rs 4,793 crore in 2016-17, Rs 7,993 crore in 2017-18. The loss is estimated to grow to Rs 14,202 crore in 2018-19. Way forward: The Cabinet proposal clears the way for the administrative allotment of spectrum for 4G services to BSNL and MTNL, to enable them to provide broadband and other data services. The telecom companies will be able to deliver 4G services and compete in the market. Connecting the dots: Will merging BSNL and MTNL pull the two companies out of their problems? Analyse. POLITY TOPIC: General Studies 1: The Freedom Struggle – its various stages and important contributors /contributions from different parts of the country. Post-independence consolidation and reorganization within the country. Rashtriya Ekta Diwas Context: To mark the birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel, National Unity Day will be celebrated on 31st October The official statement for Rashtriya Ekta Diwas by the Home Ministry cites "will provide an opportunity to re-affirm the inherent strength and resilience of our nation to withstand the actual and potential threats to the unity, integrity and security of our country” Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel born on 31 October 1875 Served as the first Deputy Prime Minister of India. Senior leader of the Indian National Congress Organised peasants from Kheda, Borsad, and Bardoli in Gujarat in non-violent civil disobedience Founding father of the Republic of India Played a leading role in the country's struggle for independence He was appointed as the 49th President of Indian National Congress, Promoted the Quit India Movement. He acted as Home Minister during the political integration of India and the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947 As the first Home Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of India, Patel organised relief efforts for refugees fleeing to Punjab and Delhi from Pakistan and worked to restore peace. Patel persuaded almost every princely state to accede to India. His commitment to national integration in the newly independent country was total and uncompromising, earning him the sobriquet "Iron Man of India". He is also remembered as the "patron saint of India's civil servants" for having established the modern all-India services system. He is also called the "Unifier of India". The Statue of Unity, the world's tallest statue, was dedicated to him on 31 October 2018 which is approximately 182 metres (597 ft) in height in Gujarat India without sardar: Subcontinent would be divided into two regions, one part a democratic India surrounded by the other part—close to 560 smaller states ruled by kings and their descendants. Half of the Indians would be living under a democratic set-up with freedoms and the rest living under some monarchy. The principle of Unity, Liberty, Equality enshrined in the Constitution would exist in one part and not in the other. There would be restrictions on travelling and transporting goods from one part to another. one part of India would be governed by the ideas of Justice and Liberty, whereas the other would have survived devoid of these ideas. Chaos and anarchy would have followed, and the idea of India would have failed at the very start of its journey. More about Sardar: He was completely vested in the idea of India, and all his efforts were initially focused on the attainment of its independence. Once that had been achieved, he relentlessly followed the idea of uniting and integrating the nation at a time when it was suffering from partition, communalisation and the refugee crisis. He was determined to commit himself towards building one India by uniting 562 princely states (constituting 48% of area). Criticisms: Patel’s idea of unity was incomplete. He may have created a united India, but this India remains full of contradictions and inequalities, both social and economic. Politically, we may be equal and united, but socially and economically we are not. Connecting the dots: The strong man of India who made Idea of India possible was Sardar Patel—‘the Bismarck and architect of modern India’. Substantiate (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) Dharma Guardian is military exercise conducted between India and which other country? USA Srilanka Japan None of the above Q.2) National Health Profile is released which body/organisation? NITI Aayog WHO in collaboration with Ministry of Statistics & Programme implementation Central Bureau of Health Intelligence None of the above Q.3) Consider the following statementsabout the proposed DNA Technology The Bill seeks to create a national data bank, and regional data banks which will have DNA samples of undertrials, suspects, missing persons and unknown deceased persons. It has proposed DNA sampling and profiling of citizens accused of crime or reported missing, and storing their unique genetic information for administrative purposes 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 UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) UCCN was created in 2004 to promote cooperation with and among cities that have identified creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable urban development Hyderabad and Bengaluru has now been officially designated as a UNESCO Creative City Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements about Kanyakumari It was called Cape Comorin during British rule in India. Many also call it as Koodal as it is situated at the confluence of three oceans Bay of Bengal, Arabian Sea and Indian Ocean. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ Substance across the Arabian Sea The Hindu Deciphering Greta’s climate message The Hindu Cleaning up the Kashmir mess The Hindu Warning in the Valley IE Nagas may not gain from I-M’s push for own constitution Live Mint
UPSC Quiz - 2020: IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 104 Archives Important Note Don't forget to post your marks in the comment section. Also, let us know if you enjoyed today's test :) To take the Test - Click Here
IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 31st October 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Chhath puja Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains I - Culture In News 400 junior policemen in Bihar’s Samastipur district, a pledge of honesty is part of the application form for leave to perform Chhath puja. Chhath is a Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun god and his wife Usha in order to thank them for bestowing the bounties of life on earth. The word chhath means sixth and the festival is celebrated on the sixth day of the month Kartika of the Hindu lunar Bikram Sambat calendar. They rituals include holy bathing, fasting, standing in water for long periods of time, and offering prayers and food to the setting and rising sun. The festival is observed most elaborately in Mithila Province of Nepal, Terai-Madhesh region of Nepal, Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand and UP. Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III –Environment In News With air quality in Delhi nose diving to ‘severe’ levels, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) Task Force extended the ban on construction and industrial activities dependent on coal till November 2. Apart from Diwali crackers and sluggish wind, the key culprit for dip in air quality in Delhi was stubble burning in Punjab and Haryana, The plan was prepared by the Supreme Court-mandated Environment Pollution Control Authority (EPCA), which held meetings with stakeholders from all states over several months. A graded response lays down stratified actions that are required to be taken as and when the concentration of pollutants reaches a certain level. This plan will be putting into action a number of anti-pollution measures and there will be specific actions for each category — moderate to poor, very poor, severe and emergency. Severe+ or Emergency (PM 2.5 over 300 µg/cubic metre or PM10 over 500 µg/cu. m. for 48+ hours) Stop entry of trucks into Delhi (except essential commodities) Stop construction work Introduce odd/even scheme for private vehicles and minimise exemptions Task Force to decide any additional steps including shutting of schools Severe (PM 2.5 over 250 µg/cu. m. or PM10 over 430 µg/cu. m.) Close brick kilns, hot mix plants, stone crushers Maximise power generation from natural gas to reduce generation from coal Encourage public transport, with differential rates More frequent mechanised cleaning of road and sprinkling of water Very Poor (PM2.5 121-250 µg/cu. m. or PM10 351-430 µg/cu. m.) Stop use of diesel generator sets Enhance parking fee by 3-4 times Increase bus and Metro services Apartment owners to discourage burning fires in winter by providing electric heaters during winter Advisories to people with respiratory and cardiac conditions to restrict outdoor movement Moderate to poor (PM2.5 61-120 µg/cu. m. or PM10 101-350 µg/cu. m.) Heavy fines for garbage burning Close/enforce pollution control regulations in brick kilns and industries Mechanised sweeping on roads with heavy traffic and water sprinkling Strictly enforce ban on firecrackers [caption id="attachment_52038" align="aligncenter" width="488"] Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 31st October 2019[/caption] https://static.toiimg.com/photo/imgsize-113487,msid-71589359/71589359.jpg Unnat Bharat Abhiyan Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III –Inclusive Development In News President during his convocation address in Jamia millia University emphasised need to connect all sections of society with development and appreciated the University for adopting five villages under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan Unnat Bharat Abhiyan was launched by the Union Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) in April 2018. Under this each selected institute would adopt a cluster of villages/panchayats. Institutes will then carry out studies to assess the local problems and then use technology to improve the implementation of various government schemes. The Objective is to use the knowledge base of the Premier Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) of the country to ensure rural development. It is expected to be a two-way learning process, where institutions share their knowledge with villages and also learn from the wisdom and commonsense of rural folk. The key points include helping villages achieve 100% school results, creating 25 jobs each in four sectors in each village where work would take place, increasing rural incomes, providing drinking water and sanitation to villages, disposing village garbage, among other things. Under Unnat Bharat Abhiyan 2.0, both technical and non-technical institutions have been invited to build systems in villages as per their strengths. Amaravati start-up area pact cancelled Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains I–Urban development In News A.P government’s agreement with Singapore consortium for the development of Amaravati start-up area has been cancelled with mutual consent The reason given by government is that the Singapore consortium was unable to give a satisfactory explanation to doubts on the financial sustainability of the project when it was asked to reveal its exact plans. A.P. government had formed Amaravati Development Partners with the Singapore consortium for the development of a start-up area of nearly 1,692 acres over a period of 20 years. The bidding was conducted in the Swiss Challenge method in accordance with A.P. Infrastructure Development Enabling Act, 2001. About Swiss Challenge It is a method of bidding, often used in public projects, in which an interested party initiates a proposal for a contract or the bid for a project. The government then puts the details of the project out in the public and invites proposals from others interested in executing it. On the receipt of these bids, the original contractor gets an opportunity to match the best bid. The Swiss Challenge allows a seller to mix-and-match the features of both an open auction and a closed tender to discover the best price for an asset. The method also has other uses. In its original form, a Swiss Challenge allows an infrastructure developer to come up with a suo motu proposal for a new project without waiting for the government to call for bids. This can foster innovation, as contractors or developers may initiate projects that the powers-that-be didn’t even think of. For more viewpoints on Swiss model refer: https://iasbaba.com/2016/03/3-understand-swiss-model-public-private-partnership-discuss-features-potential-india/ Kudankulam plant&‘dtrack’ malware Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III - Energy In News The Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd. (NPCIL) on Wednesday confirmed that a malware had indeed infected its system at the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP), a day after KKNPP officials had categorically asserted that the systems at the plant could not be accessed by anyone outside the network as they were all isolated. The matter was conveyed by CERT-In [Indian Computer Emergency Response Team] when it was noticed by them on September 4, 2019. The investigation had revealed that the infected computer belonged to a user who was connected “in the Internet connected network used for administrative purposes, However, the authorities stated that system was isolated from the critical internal network and that the networks were being “continuously monitored”. The cyberintrusion came to light on 28th October after the website VirusTotal uploaded a data dump that seemed to point to a data breach in the KKNPP system. The dump pointed to a ‘dtrack’ malware, which can be used as a remote administrator tool, having infected systems at the KKNPP. About CERT-IN CERT-In is an acronym for ‘Indian Computer Emergency Response Team’. As per Information Technology Amendment Act 2008, CERT-In is the National Incident Response Centre for major computer security incidents in its constituency i.e. Indian cyber community. CERT-IN is operational since 2004 CERT-In’s primary role is to raise security awareness among Indian cyber community and to provide technical assistance and advise them to help them recover from computer security incidents. It functions under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Objectives of CERT-In Preventing cyber-attacks against the country’s cyber space. Responding to cyber-attacks and minimizing damage and recovery time. Reducing ‘national vulnerability to cyber-attacks. Enhancing security awareness among common citizens. Submarine propulsion system test a success Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III- Science & Technology In News The indigenous Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) system to enhance the endurance of conventional submarines being developed by DRDO reached a milestone with the successful operation of a land-based prototype. An AIP module enables conventional submarines to remain submerged for longer duration.Fuel cell-based AIP has merits in performance compared to other technologies All Scorpene submarines of the Navy are planned to be equipped with an AIP module in due course Scorpene-class submarines These are a class of diesel-electric attack submarines jointly developed by the French Direction des Constructions Navales (DCN) and the Spanish company Navantia, and now by Naval Group. It features diesel propulsion and an additional air-independent propulsion (AIP). Chile pulls out from hosting climate and trade summits Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II – International affairs In News Chile’s President announced that his country, which has been rocked by a wave of recent protests, was not in a position to host a key UN climate change meeting and major Asia-Pacific trade summit later this year. The priority of Chilean government was to focus first and foremost on fully restoring public order and social peace, Cancelling the climate meeting, which had been scheduled for December, leaves organisers with a very tight window to find a new venue. Chile stepped up to host the Climate Change Conference after the initial host, Brazil, pulled out last year.Brazil’s decision came soon after the election of President Jair Bolsonaro (MAINS FOCUS) POLITY TOPIC: General Studies 2 India and its neighbourhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests INDIA - SAUDI ARABIA RELATIONS Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi held extensive talks with the Saudi Arabia's top leadership Strategic Partnership Council was established to coordinate on important issues. The council will be headed by Modi and the crown prince and it will meet at an interval of two years. India and Saudi Arabia inked dozen of agreements in several key sectors, including oil and gas, defence and civil aviation Saudi Arabia, known to be a key ally of Pakistan, has been siding with India in its campaign to rid the region of terrorism and pledged to extend all cooperation to effectively deal with the challenge The first naval exercise between the two nations will take place by end of this year or early next year. India- Saudi relations: India–Saudi Arabia relations are generally strong and close, especially in commercial interests. Indo-Saudi bilateral trade reached US$27.48 billion in the financial year 2017–18 Saudi Arabia's exports to India stood at US$22.06 billion whereas India's exports were US$5.41 billion the trade relations between southern India and Arabia flourished and became the backbone of the Arabian economy 1000 AD Arab traders held a monopoly over the spice trade between India and Europe until the rise of European imperialist empires Saudi Arabia is one of the largest suppliers of oil to India, who is one of the top seven trading partners and the fifth biggest investor in Saudi Arabia. Conflicts: Saudi’s relations with Pakistan affected India's strategic relations with Saudi Arabia Saudi Arabia supported Pakistan's Kashmir stance During the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, Saudi supported Pakistan at the expense of its relations with India. The Russia’s close relations with India also negatively affected Indo-Saudi relations. During the Persian Gulf War (1990–91), India officially maintained neutrality. Relationship since 1990s: Saudi Arabia has supported granting observer status to India in the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) Saudi has expanded its collaboration with India to fight Islamic terrorism in the Middle East The Saudi king and the Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh signed an agreement forging a strategic energy partnership that was termed the "Delhi Declaration." The pact provides for a "reliable, stable and increased volume of crude oil supplies to India through long-term contracts. Both nations also agreed on joint ventures and the development of oil and natural gas in public and private sectors In 2019, Saudi Arabia increased the Hajj quota of India Relations in 2019: The Saudi Crown Prince, Muhammad bin Salman, made a visit to India in February, 2019. The number of Indian pilgrims performing Hajj in Saudi Arabia has been increased to 200,000 every year. India, the world's third-largest oil consumer, imports 83 per cent of its oil needs. Saudi Arabia is its second-biggest supplier after Iraq. It sold 40.33 million tonnes of crude oil to India in 2018-19 fiscal, when the country had imported 207.3 million tonnes of oil. India buys some 200,000 tonnes of LPG every month from Saudi Arabia. Connecting the dots: India's relations with Saudi Arabia have been on an upswing over the last few years based on burgeoning energy ties. Justify ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Employment in India (Part 2) Context: Since the results of the Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) 2017-18 became public — they showed that unemployment in India was at a 45-year high — there has been vigorous public debate about the true state of unemployment in the country. What fuelled debate? Long delays in the availability of past employment data, even though PLFS tracks employment annually. Also read : Part 1 : https://iasbaba.com/2019/10/daily-current-affairs-ias-upsc-prelims-and-mains-exam-30th-october-2019/ Main findings: Total employment in the country grew by 4.5 crore in the 13 years between EUS 2004-05 and PLFS 2017-18. This represents a growth of just 0.8 per cent — less than half the rate at which the overall population grew, which was 1.7 per cent. Urban and Rural: 4.5 crore increase in employment, 4.2 crore happened in the urban areas while rural employment either contracted (by 0.01 per cent between 2004 and 2011) or was stagnant (grew by 0.18 per cent between 2011 and 2017). Male and female: Male employment grew by 6 crore but female employment fell by 1.5 crore. Women’s share in employment has fallen from an already low level of 27.08% in 2004 to 21.17 per cent in 2017. Youth employment (those between the ages of 15 and 24) has fallen from 8.14 crore in 2004 to 5.34 crore in 2017. Organised and Unorganised sector: The rate of employment growth in the organised sector has been the fastest, and its share in the total employment has risen from 8.9 per cent in 2004 to 14 per cent in 2017. The pace of growth of the unorganised sector has moderated since 2011, its overall share in the economy has gone up from 37.1 per cent in 2004 to 47.7 per cent in 2017. The agri-cropping sector, employment has fallen from 21.9 per cent in 2004 to 17.4 per cent in 2017. Contractual employment: The organised sector in India preferring to employ workers without a contract. Indeed, between 2011 and 2017, this resulted in the organised sector coming to employ more people without a contract. The presence of a contract makes all the difference when it comes to job security, minimum wages, equal pay for equal work, safe working conditions, etc. Without a contract, even a worker employed in the organised sector would not have any means of seeking recourse for any injustice. Conclusion: Firms (organised or unorganised) preferring non-contractual employment is bad news for India’s bid to make the economy more formal. Firms are doing so to cut the extra costs that come with complying with inflexible and stringent labour laws. Connecting the dots: Those who are poor, illiterate, and unskilled are increasingly losing out on jobs. Substantiate (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) Swiss Challenge often seen in news is related to which of the following areas? Inculcating Innovation spirit among Universities Improvements in Urban development Public-Partnership Model None of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements about CERT-IN It is the National Incident Response Centre for major computer security incidents in Indian cyber community. It functions under the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3)Consider the following statements about Unnat Bharat Abhiyan It was launched by the Ministry of Skill development The Objective is to use the knowledge base of the Premier Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) of the country to ensure rural development Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 Q.4)Consider the following statements about Chhath puja Chhath is a Hindu festival dedicated to the Sun god and his wife Usha in order to thank them for bestowing the bounties of life on earth The festival is observed most elaborately in Mithila Province of Nepal, Terai-Madhesh region of Nepal, Indian states of Bihar, Jharkhand and UP Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ Visiting Kashmir: On MEP team visit The Hindu Free trade over fair trade The Hindu Upholding the ideals of fairness and rectitude The Hindu A New Kind Of Government IE On the Indian economy, no one knows what to believe. This makes the uncertainty of our moment more endemic IE
