IAS Baba

Sep 18, 2019 PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 8th Sep to 15th September – 2019

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 8th to 15th September, 2019 ARCHIVES GS-2 India joins the Global Antimicrobial Resistance Research and Development Hub (Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health) Objective: To be able to work with all partners to leverage their existing capabilities, resources and collectively focus on new R&D intervention to address drug resistant infections. Antimicrobial Resistance: AMR is the ability of a microbe to resist the effects of medication that once could successfully treat the microbe. Today, the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance continues unabated around the world. Given the important and interdependent human, animal, and environmental dimensions of antimicrobial resistance, India considers it reasonable to explore issues of antimicrobial resistance through the lens of One Health approach which should be supported by long-term commitments from all stakeholders. Sources of AMR Pharmaceutical industry effluents: In India, effluents generated from pharmaceutical industries are treated as per the pharmaceutical wastewater discharge guidelines prescribed by the Central Pollution Control Board. The current standards do not include antibiotic residues, and they are not monitored in the pharmaceutical industry effluents. No consensus guidelines on the antibiotic residue discharge limits in industrial waste globally. The existing framework under the WHO (2016) is restricted to drug safety and does not include environmental safeguards. Discharge of untreated urban waste: The uncontrolled discharge of untreated urban waste is another major source for AMR. Large proportions of the wastewater from hospitals, communities and urban runoff is discharged untreated or partially treated into rivers, lakes and seas. Veterinary source: Antibiotic consumption in animal food. The misuse of antibiotics in poultry, livestock and fish to treat and prevent infections is very common. National Action Plan in India In India, a national action plan, meant to deal with the issue of AMR, focuses on six priority areas — Awareness and understanding through education Communication and training Strengthening knowledge and evidence through surveillance Infection prevention and control Optimised antimicrobial use in health, animals and food AMR-related research and innovation and strengthened leadership and commitment at international, and national It highlights the need for the integrated approach in multiple sectors such as human health, animal husbandry, agriculture and environment to overcome the AMR issues. Global AMR R&D Hub The Global AMR R&D Hub was launched in May 2018 in the margins of the 71st session of the World Health Assembly, following a call from G20 Leaders in 2017. It supports global priority setting and evidence-based decision-making on the allocation of resources for AMR R&D through the identification of gaps, overlaps and potential for cross-sectoral collaboration and leveraging in AMR R&D. The operation of the Global AMR R&D Hub is supported through a Secretariat, established in Berlin and currently financed through grants from the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) and the Federal Ministry of Health (BMG). India joining it expands the global partnership working to address challenges and improve coordination and collaboration in global AMR R&D to 16 countries, the European Commission, two philanthropic foundations and four international organisations (as observers). In a major boost to combat one of the gravest risks to global health a dedicated special vehicle in terms of Global AMR R&D Hub may allow partners to devote expertise in order to accelerate global action against antimicrobial resistance. India & ADB sign $200 million loan to improve rural connectivity in Maharashtra (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) Aim: To upgrade rural roads to all-weather standards in 34 districts of Maharashtra State to improve road safety and better connect rural areas with markets and services. Enhanced road connectivity and better access to markets will help the farmers increase agricultural productivity and incomes Impact of the project: The project will improve the condition of about 2,100 kilometers (km) of rural roads to all-weather standards, with climate resilience and safety features, connecting rural communities with productive agricultural areas and socioeconomic centers Background: Maharashtra has an extensive road network, with rural roads making up two thirds of the network. But more than half of these rural roads are unsealed, making them unsuitable for motorized traffic and impassable during the rainy season. Road safety has been a growing concern with the state accounting for over 8% of all fatal road accidents in India. The Loan: Accompanying the loan is a technical assistance grant of $1 million for institutional strengthening of the MRRDA in areas such as road asset management, road safety, climate-resilient design and construction and web-based real-time project monitoring. Outreach for road users will be carried out in the state to build awareness of road safety, gender issues including human trafficking, and enhancing women’s road construction and maintenance skills. About Asian Development Bank: ADB is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. Established in 1966, it is owned by 68 members—49 from the region. In 2018, it made commitments of new loans and grants amounting to $21.6 billion. GS-3 Energy and India (Topic: Infrastructure: Energy) Energy access, higher standard of living and improved prosperity in developing countries will primarily drive the energy demand. It is important for the low income, low per capital energy consuming countries to have access to technology and capital when it comes to energy efficiency and clean tech. That will provide better energy security than short term interventions in fossil fuel supply and price. The Issue: Due to poor and imbalanced energy infrastructure, 400 million people in Asian region have no access to electricity, and rural residents have no access to clean electricity. Therefore, providing safe, stable, affordable and efficient energy has become an important task for governments of all countries. Energy Vision of India It is based on four pillars i.e. Energy access Energy efficiency Energy sustainability Energy security What do we need to do? Matching Investment with Consumption: In India, we have to improve availability of energy to over 1.3 billion people, whose per capita energy consumption is lower than the global average. Now, India is the third-largest energy consumer in the world, and its energy demand is growing faster than all major economies of the world. Our share of total global primary energy demand is set to double to 11% by 2040. We are preparing for such a growth path of energy demand in the country. This calls for making matching investments in the energy sector. Energy Justice to be the core objective: As part of our integrated approach towards energy planning, energy justice will be a key objective in itself. In this context, we are working towards the early realization of the UN Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 7. A number of transformative policies and initiatives have been taken in India to realize the above objectives. Significantly expanding the energy infrastructure – be it power generation, more renewables and gas-based infrastructure -pipelines, city gas network, LNG terminals. Launched a major campaign to improve access to clean cooking fuel under the Ujjwala Yojana scheme three years back, and Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi handed over the 80 millionth LPG connection couple of days back. A ‘Blue Flame Revolution’ is underway. LPG coverage has reached more than ninety percent from fifty-five percent five years ago. India attained universal electrification all villages. This year, India aims to achieve hundred per cent electrification of households, through SAUBHAGYA. Clean transportation is another area of high priority in India. We are jumping directly from BS-VI to BS-VI fuel by April 2020. India is moving towards a gas-based economy by increasing the share of gas from 6% to 15% in the energy mix by 2030. Constructed over 16,000 km of gas pipeline and an additional 11,000 km is under construction; covered over four hundred districts and 70 percent of our population. There is already a cardinal shift to renewable energy sources; the target is 175 GW by 2022, with solar target of 100 GW by 2022. Promoting alternative fuels like ethanol and bio-diesel in a big way. A National Bio-Fuel Policy 2018 was unveiled, targeting 20% blending of ethanol in petrol and 5% blending of bio-diesel in diesel by 2030. About BEE The BEE is a statutory body under the Ministry of Power, Government of India. It assists in developing policies and strategies with the primary objective of reducing the energy intensity of the Indian economy. BEE coordinates with designated consumers, designated agencies, and other organizations to identify and utilize the existing resources and infrastructure, in performing the functions assigned to it under the Energy Conservation Act. 14th Conference of Parties of the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (Topic: Environment Conservation, Climate Change) Desertification affects over 23rds of countries of the world. This makes a compelling case for action on land front combine this with the water crisis facing the world. Because when we address degraded lands we also address water scarcity issue. Augmenting water supply enhancing water recharge, slowing down water runoff and retaining moisture in the soil are all parts of a holistic land and water strategy. India and Desertification India had been able to increase its tree cover. Between 2015 to 2017 India’s tree and forest cover had been increased by 0.8 Mn Hectares. In India any diversion of forest land for development purposes has to be compensated by making an equivalent land mass available for afforestation. It is also required that a monetary payment of the value of timber which such forest land would have yielded. Introduced a program to double the income of the farmers by increasing crop yield through various measures. This includes land restoration and micro irrigation. Working with the motto of per drop more crop. At the same time the focus is also on zero budget natural farming. Introduced a scheme to determine the soil quality of each of the farms and are issuing soil health cards to the farmers. This enables them to grow right type of crops, fertilizers, and use the right quantity of water. So far about 217 Million Soil Health Cards have been distributed. The use of bio fertilizers and reducing the use of pesticides and chemical fertilizers is also being initiated. Water management is another important issue for which Jal Shakti Ministry has been created to address all water related important issues in totality. Recognizing the value of water in all forms, Zero liquid discharge has been enforced in many industrial processes. Provides for treatment of waste water to a degree that it can be put back into the river system without harming life in water. Plastic Waste – A big Menace: Another form of land degradation which if not prevented could be impossible to reverse. This is the menace of plastic waste. Apart from having adverse health implications, this is going to render lands unproductive and unfit for agriculture. India is putting an end to single waste plastic by committing to the development of environment friendly substitutes and also an efficient plastic collection and disposal method. Human empowerment is closely linked to the state of environment be it harnessing water resources or reducing the usage of single use plastic, the way ahead is behavioral change. It is only when all sections of society decide to achieve something we can see the desired results. India’s Commitment India would raise its ambition of the total area that would be restored from its land degradation status from 21 Million Hectares to 26 Million Hectares between now and 2030. This will support India’s large commitment to achieve an additional Carbon Sink between 2.5 Bn MT to 3 Bn MT through tree cover. India uses remote sensing and space technology for multiple applications including land restoration, and would be happy to help other friendly countries develop land restoration strategies, through cost effective satellite and space technology. In order to further develop a scientific approach and facilitate induction of technology to land degradation issues, a centre for excellence in India is being set up at the Indian Council for Forest Research and Education. This will actively engage, to promote South-South cooperation with those who wish to access knowledge, technology and training of manpower to address land degradation related issues. Drought Toolbox launched: A one-stop shop for all actions on drought; the toolbox is a sort of knowledge bank which contains tools that strengthen the ability of countries to anticipate and prepare for drought effectively and mitigate their impacts as well as tools that enable communities to anticipate and find the land management tools that help them to build resilience to drought. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), also known as the Global Goals, were adopted by all United Nations Member States in 2015 as a universal call to action to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure that all people enjoy peace and prosperity by 2030. The 17 SDGs are integrated—that is, they recognize that action in one area will affect outcomes in others, and that development must balance social, economic and environmental sustainability. The SDG-15 refers to: Protecting, restoring and promoting sustainable use of terrestrial ecosystems, sustainably manage forests, combat desertification, and halt and reverse land degradation and halt biodiversity loss. Delhi Declaration: An ambitious statement of global action by each country on how to achieve Land Degradation Neutrality Biggest Tribal Movement to promote tribal enterprise through Bamboonomics at ‘COP 14 UNCCD - TRIFED-GIZ’: Tribal community has lived in a very eco-friendly manner for generations in and around the forest areas and they have never degraded the forest lands. So, their expertise and experience should be taken into consideration. A goal of additional 5 mha has been therefore set. Under the Bonn Challenge, Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TRIFED would strive to support this national commitment. TRIFED will involve the tribal community of India for rehabilitating the degraded land without compromising the income of the poor in the garb of environmentally friendly development. Bamboonomics has been designed in such a way that while doing the environmental services, the tribals will be earning. Prelims oriented Notes President of India Unveils Statue of Mahatma Gandhi: Villeneuve, Switzerland Engineers' Day: 15th Sep Indian Aviation Sector India’s Tallest Air Traffic Control Tower: Indira Gandhi International Airport which will ensure up-scaled services and systems for efficient, smooth and uninterrupted air traffic management. DigiSky: An online portal to regulate the entire gamut of activities relating to governance and operation of Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (RPAS)/Unmanned Aircraft Vehicles (UAVs)/drones has been made operational. While ensuring safety and security in drone operations, it will also help in promotion of drone technologies. Esahaj: 100% of security clearances pertaining to the Ministry have been made online on Esahaj online portal launched by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The portal is operational for granting clearances in respect of 24 categories. DigiYatra Trial for rollout of DigiYatra initiative has been started at Bangalore and Hyderabad airports. The initiative envisages seamless and hassle free passenger travel using biometric technologies to improve passenger experience, reduce queue waiting time as passengers can walk through e-gates by using advanced security solutions. It will remove redundancies at check points and enhance resource utilization. DRDO successfully flight-tests indigenously developed low weight, fire & forget Man Portable Antitank Guided Missile: The missile was launched from a man portable Tripod launcher and the target was mimicking a functional tank. The missile hit the target in top attack mode and destroyed it with precision. All the mission objectives were met. This is the third series of successful testing of MPATGM. The missile is incorporated with state-of-the-art Infrared Imaging Seeker along with advanced avionics. The test paves the way for the Army to have developed 3rd generation man portable Anti-Tank Guided Missile indigenously. Launch of Maritime Communication Services in India: Maritime Connectivity will enable high-end support to those in sea by providing access to Voice, Data and Video services while traveling on sailing vessels, cruise liners, ships in India, using satellite technology. Nelco, India's leading VSAT solutions provider is the first Indian company that will now provide quality broadband services to the maritime sector. Launch of Curriculum for Life Skills (Jeevan Kaushal) designed by University Grants Commission (UGC) The curriculum is designed to impart and strengthen the knowledge, skills and dispositions believed to be the best requisites of the current Industry and thereby empower the talent inherent in each learner. Life Skills like communication skill, interpersonal skill, time management, problem solving ability, decision making capacity, leadership ability and integrity play a crucial role in boosting the employability of the students. Life skills (JeevanKaushal) curriculum cover the set of human talents acquired by an individual via classroom learning or life experience that can help them to deal with problems encountered in day to day life. This includes the core skills each individual must possess internally as well as externally for the betterment of self and the society as a whole. Adoption of life skills is the key to success and quality in life. Launch of Swachhata Hi Seva (SHS) 2019: A massive countrywide awareness and mobilization campaign on Swachhata SHS 2019, with special focus on ‘plastic waste awareness and management’ is being organized from 11th September to October 2nd 2019, as the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) is poised to dedicate an ODF India to Mahatma Gandhi on his 150th birth anniversary. Indo-Thailand Joint Military Exercise – Maitree: Notably, in the series of military training exercises undertaken by India with various countries, Exercise MAITREE with Thailand is a significant in terms of the security challenges faced by both the nations in the backdrop of changing facets of global terrorism. The scope of this exercise covers company level joint training on counter terrorism operations in jungle and urban scenario. Launch of National Pension Scheme for Traders and Self Employed Persons: A pension scheme for the Vyaparis (shopkeepers/retail traders and self-employed persons) with annual turnover not exceeding Rs 1.5 crore. It is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme for entry age of 18 to 40 years with a provision for minimum assured pension of Rs 3,000/- monthly on attaining the age of 60 years. National Animal Disease Control Programme: For eradicating the Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) and Brucellosis in the livestock With 100 Percent funding from the Central Government, of Rs 12,652 Crores for a period of five years till 2024, the programme aims at vaccinating over 500 Million Livestock including cattle, buffalo, sheep, goats and pigs against the FMD. The programme also aims at vaccinating 36 Million Female Bovine Calves annually in its fight against the Brucellosis disease. The Programme has two components – to control the diseases by 2025 and eradication by 2030. Prime Minister Narendra Modi shall also be launching the National Artificial Insemination Programme on that day. Also expected is the simultaneous launch of the nationwide workshops in KrishiVigyanKendras in all the 687 Districts of the country on the topic of vaccination, disease management, artificial insemination and productivity. Kisan Man Dhan Yojana: The Scheme shall secure the lives of 5 Crore Small and Marginal Farmers by providing a minimum pension of Rs 3000 per month, to those who attain 60 years of age. All the small and marginal farmers who are currently between the ages of 18 to 40 years can apply for the scheme. Farmer’s monthly contribution can be made from the instalments of PM-KISAN or through CSCs. India Post Payments Bank Announces Rollout of Aadhaar Enabled Payment Services at the First Anniversary of its Business Operations: Rollout of Aadhaar Enabled Payment System (AePS) Services by India Post Payments Bank (IPPB), giving a strong boost to its efforts in expanding access to financial services for millions of unbanked and underbanked customers. With the launch of AEPS services, IPPB has now become the single largest platform in the country for providing interoperable banking services to the customers of ANY BANK by leveraging the last mile unprecedented reach of the Postal network. IPPB’s unparalleled network complimented with robust interoperable technology platform set up by National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) is poised to take banking to each & every household across the remotest parts of the country. With AePS services any common person with a bank account linked to Aadhaar can perform basic banking services such as cash withdrawals and balance enquiry irrespective of the bank they hold their account with. To avail these services, a customer with an Aadhaar linked account can simply authenticate his/her identity with fingerprint scan & Aadhaar authentication to complete a transaction. AePS services are bank-agnostic and are driven by an inexpensive infrastructure enabling low cost delivery of doorstep banking services to every section of the society without discrimination, thus bringing forth the dawn of a ‘Truly Inclusive Financial System’. About India Post Payments Bank India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) has been established under the Department of Posts, Ministry of Communication with 100% equity owned by Government of India. IPPB has been set up with the vision to build the most accessible, affordable and trusted bank for the common man in India. The fundamental mandate of India Post Payments Bank is to remove barriers for the unbanked & underbanked and reach the last mile leveraging the Postal network comprising 155,000 Post Offices (135,000 in rural areas) and 300,000 Postal employees. IPPB’s reach and its operating model is built on the key pillars of India Stack - enabling Paperless, Cashless and Presence-less banking in a simple and secure manner at the customers' doorstep, through a CBS-integrated smartphone and biometric device. Leveraging frugal innovation and with a high focus on ease of banking for the masses, IPPB delivers simple and affordable banking solutions through intuitive interfaces available in 13 languages. IPPB is committed to provide a fillip to a less cash economy and contribute to the vision of Digital India. India will prosper when every citizen will have equal opportunity to become financially secure and empowered. Our motto stands true - Every customer is important, every transaction is significant and every deposit is valuable. Personality in News Sir M. Visvesvaraya Mokshagundam Visvesvaraya, a scholar, statesman, educationist and the most celebrated engineer in India, was born 158 years ago today in the village of Muddenahalli in the Kingdom of Mysore (now in Karnataka). This day, every year since 1968, is celebrated as the Engineers Day in India, to recognise the contribution of engineers' in the development of the nation. Visvesvaraya was responsible for the construction of Krishna Raja Sagara Dam in Mysore. He was the chief engineer in the project. He was also the chief designer of the flood protection system of Hyderabad. He also designed and patented the automatic weir floodgates, which were first installed at the Khadakwasla reservoir in Pune in 1903. He is believed to have transformed Mysore into the 'model state' of the India.

Sep 18, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 73

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 73 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Rustom-2’ It is developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation. It is a Medium Altitude Long Endurance unmanned air vehicle (UAV). Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect ‘Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO)’ It is an intergovernmental counter-terrorist alliance of countries in the Muslim world, united around military intervention against ISIL and other counter-terrorist activities. Most of its participants are members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Sa-Dhan’ It is an association of microfinance institutions (MFIs). Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had accorded it the status of a self-regulatory organization (SRO). Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) ‘Nameri National Park’ is located in Assam Manipur Uttarakhand Madhya Pradesh Q.5) Which of the following statements are correct about Pyrolysis? It is process of combustion in the presence of Oxygen. The gases produced as a result can be used as a fuel. Select the code from below: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba

Sep 17, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 17th September 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 17th September 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Mega shopping festivals Part of: GS Prelims and GS-III - Economy In News Finance Minister announced an annual “mega shopping festival” in four cities by March 2020 as a measure to reverse a deepening economic downturn. The festival is expected to follow the model of Dubai’s annual shopping festival, which is famous for the heavy discounts offered by retailers in the city on popular brands across sectors. India’s own mega shopping festival will have different themes in each of the four cities (to be decided) and is expected to focus on sectors like gems and jewellery, yoga, tourism and textiles and leather. The government plans to give a booster shot to exports of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) through this festival, While enterprises are optimistic about such festival, India will have to ensure it is able to compete with the likes of Dubai, Singapore and Hong Kong if it plans to become the preferred shopping destination of tourists This can be done if the festival offers a mix of global and indigenous products, instead of sticking solely to products made in India, National anti-microbial resistance hub Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II – Health In News The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) inaugurated India’s first National Anti-microbial Resistance Hub in Kolkata The Hub has been developed by the ICMR in association with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. It will aim to identify antibiotics that work best for diseases and frame a policy for antibiotic use that will prevent resistance. It will carry out basic research and have a repository of viral strains that are being collected from all over the country. The Kolkata centre would be the hub for research on antibiotic resistance not only for the country but for the entire South Asia. Degradation of plastics Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III – Environmental Conservation In News The team at IIT Madras have demonstrated an environment-friendly strategy to degrade the chemically inert and physically stable plastic fluoropolymer — polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) of which Teflon is made. All that is required to degrade the fluoropolymer into molecules is continuous stirring of it in water containing 1,000 ppm glucose and metal ions for about 15 days at 70 degree C. PTFE polymer was breaking down into smaller molecules through triboelectric degradation. Triboelectricity refers to the electrification of dissimilar objects or materials occurred due to the collision. The process of rubbing materials against each other increase the surface contact producing an electric charge which is termed as triboelectric effect. The team has tested polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) using same methodology and got similar results. Scientists predict that similar chemistry can possibly lead to micro and nanoplastics in food during cooking as many modern cookware are coated with Teflon. Triboelectric degradation of plastic might be occurring in nature in large water bodies such as oceans where metal ions are found in abundance and waves provide constant agitation – may be one of the ways by which microplastics get generated (MAINS FOCUS) POLITY TOPIC: General Studies 2: Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure Comparison of the Indian constitutional scheme with that of other countries Reasonable restriction on Freedom of speech Context: The Bombay High Court rejected the plea of Gautam Navlakha, an accused in the Bhima Koregaon case, for quashing the criminal proceedings against him, observing that there was some material to indicate that the accused was in contact with Naxalites. But being in contact with a militant organisation cannot by itself be a crime, as it does not result in any imminent lawless act. Freedom of speech : Freedom of speech and individual liberty are enshrined in Articles 19(1)(a) and 21 of the Constitution. However, these rights are not absolute but subject to reasonable restrictions. What would be a reasonable restriction? The U.S. Supreme Court tests to determine whether the restriction is reasonable or not ‘bad tendency’ test : free speech or acts could be prohibited if they were likely to adversely affect the welfare of the public ‘clear and present danger’ test : restriction would be reasonable only if the speech or action constitutes a clear and present (and not remote) danger to state security or public order. ‘imminent lawless action’ test : The constitutional guarantees of free speech and free press do not permit the state to forbid or proscribe advocacy of the use of force or of law violation, except where such advocacy is directed to inciting or producing imminent lawless action The word ‘imminent’ means ‘likely to happen very soon,’ ‘at hand,’ or ‘fast approaching.’ In India: The ‘clear and present danger’ test is followed (Indra Das v. State of Assam (2011) and Arup Bhuyan v. State of Assam (2011)) Being in contact with a militant organisation cannot by itself be a crime, as it does not result in any imminent lawless act. One could be a writer who contacts Naxalites for doing research about them, or a social activist, or even a sympathiser. That would be legal, being within the ambit of the ‘clear and present danger’ test. Conclusion : it is the higher judiciary which must do its duty as guardians of the citizens’ constitutional rights. The court must not succumb as it did during the Emergency. SECURITY/ROLE OF MEDIA TOPIC: General Studies 3: Challenges to Internal Security through Communication Networks, Role of Media and Social Networking Sites in Internal Security Challenges, Basics of Cyber Security; Money-Laundering and its prevention. Role of Media & Social Networking Sites in Internal Security Challenges Challenges in Managing Social Media Role of media in fake news dispersal Context: Controlling fake news is a preoccupation of the technology platforms, the political class, the news media, and an increasing tribe of citizens concerned about democracy being hijacked. The reason for the fake news dispersal: The institutional news media have lost their credibility due to complicit The rise of social media has led to the ubiquity and difficulty in controlling/eliminating fake news. Governments and political actors (anyone in the business of mobilizing public opinion) have always invested in fake news campaigns to build news of their choice. Measures to combat fake news: Rebuttal (Controversy) Removal of the fake news item Educating the public Controlling the longer political problem. Do you know? Rebuttal is a type of fact checking wherein the fake news is removed by pointing out errors like mismatch, malicious editing and misattribution. Measures outlined for combating fake news discourse: Companies like Facebook and YouTube are pressurized to proactively remove fake news from their platforms and rework their algorithms to ensure that such content does not gain prominence. The newly introduced limit on forwarding message on WhatsApp is one more example of this discourse, where accountability to address fake news is dumped on to the technology platforms. Educating the end users to be more precise about the news by informing them of verification tools so that they can verify the accuracy of a news item before sharing it. Another proposal by the government, concerns tracking the ‘source’ of fake news, primarily to address the issue at its root. But this may cause serious issues concerning invasion of privacy and free speech. Shortcomings of these approaches: It is possible to rebut news on one fake instance (example of children getting abducted) but the ‘fake news factory’ will keep leaking out similar stories to advance its chosen narrative.So, it is impossible to completely ‘remove’ fake news even after rebuttal, given the decentralised nature of dissemination. The increasing complexity of issues, in combination with the deluge of information has made it impossible for any individual to develop a well-researched stand on all the topics. When the piece of information (fake news or otherwise) stands for someone’s held beliefs, it is readily accepted and shared. People don’t care about finding the ‘truth’ behind news item and instead look for evidence to support their preferred narrative (confirmation bias). Steps to address the debunking of fake news: Addressing the weaknesses that allow the fake news narrative to take root. While pushing the fake news, they have to witness the loss of credibility which is perceived as elitist and corrupt. We must mobilise public opinion around an alternate narrative that makes the fake news item irrelevant. Instead of poking holes in an opponent’s story, it may be more effective to replace it with a different narrative built on facts, as most of the people cannot hold multiple stories in their head. Conclusion: Even if the fake news is not an electoral agenda, it is in the service of the political. So, we should not lose sight by focusing disproportionately on individual fake news items instead of the larger narrative. Connecting the dots: Will de-anonymising all social media accounts by the government will ensure dispersal of fake news? Discuss why the government and the political actors have invested in disinformation campaigns? (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 India’s first National Anti-microbial Resistance Hub is establised in Kolkata by the ICMR in association with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The centre would be hub for research on antibiotic resistance not only for the country but for the entire South Asia. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements Mega Shopping festivals in India on the lines of Dubai shopping festival can be used as a measure to reverse a deepening economic downturn. However, to withstand the competition from existing such events, the festival must offer a mix of global and indigenous products, instead of sticking solely to products made in India. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ The slow climb to the trillion economy peak The Hindu Israel, Pakistan ties a bridge too far? The Hindu The debut of ‘Periyar’, through a story The Hindu ‘Spend to grow’ Indian Express Raja Mandala: Myth of religious solidarity Indian Express Vaping is bad but bidis and gutka are worse Financial Express India needs triple helix model of innovation in universities Financial Express GST rate cut for economic growth is a myth Financial Express

Sep 17, 2019 AIR

All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - Significance of G-7 Summit in Current Global Scenario

Significance of G-7 Summit in Current Global Scenario ARCHIVES Search 26th August, 2019 Spotlight News Analysis here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 2: India and its neighbourhood relations, International relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora. Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate. The G7 or 'Group of Seven' are Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. It is an intergovernmental organisation that was formed in 1975 by the top economies of the time as an informal forum to discuss pressing world issues. Canada joined the group in 1976, and the European Union began attending since 1977. The G7 was known as the ‘G8’ for several years after the original seven were joined by Russia in 1997. The Group returned to being called G7 after Russia was expelled as a member in 2014 following the latter’s annexation of the Crimea region of Ukraine. The current G7 Summit being held in France is the 45th, and the next one will be held in the United States in 2020. History The G7 was formed initially to discuss economic and political concerns prompted by the 1973 oil crisis - when members of OPEC, the Organization of Petroleum Export Countries, increased the price of oil and cut global supplies to countries seen as having backed Israel in the Yom Kippur War. Since then, the group has expanded its brief to cover a large number of international issues, including energy security, trade, climate change, global health issues, gender equality, poverty - and any other topic the country holding the G7 presidency chooses to put on the agenda. Today, the G7 are reckoned as the seven wealthiest and most advanced nations in the world because China, which holds the second largest net worth in the world, nonetheless has a low net worth per individual and an economy that has not yet fully modernized. In the meeting The G7 Summit is an informal gathering that lasts two days, in which leaders of member countries discuss a wide range of global issues. The groundwork for the Summit, including matters to be discussed and follow-up meetings, is done by the “sherpas”, who are generally personal representatives or members of diplomatic staff such as ambassadors. The G7 does not have a formal constitution or a fixed headquarters. The decisions taken by leaders during annual Summits are non-binding. The presidency, which rotates annually among member states, is responsible for setting the agenda of each year’s summit and arranging logistics for it. France identified the following five objectives for the Summit: Fighting inequality of opportunity, promoting in particular gender equality, access to education and high quality health services; Reducing environmental inequality by protecting our planet through climate finance and a fair ecological transition, preserving biodiversity and the oceans; Strengthening the social dimension of globalization through more fair and equitable trade, tax and development policies; Taking action for peace against security threats and terrorism which weaken the foundations of our societies; and Tapping into the opportunities created by digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI) Besides Iran, G-7 is worrying about a lot of other issues — from the Amazon forest fires to Brexit and the escalating tariff war between the US and China, to the French threat to impose new taxes on American technology companies. India at the G7 Summit The invite to India to be a Biarritz Partner and to Prime Minister Modi to be a special guest at the Summit was extended by President Macron keeping in mind the common interests of India and France, such as tackling climate change and the development of renewable energy. Prime Minister Modi collaborated closely with President Macron’s predecessor, President François Hollande, in the creation of the International Solar Alliance in 2015. Modi addressed sessions on digital transformation and climate change at the Biarritz Summit. Conclusion Many analysts also believe the power and prestige of the G20, a forum for finance ministers and central bank governors from nineteen of the world’s largest countries as well as the EU, has surpassed that of the G7. Emerging powers including Brazil, China, India, Mexico, and South Africa, whose absence from the G7 was often noted, all belong to the G20. However, in the current scenario, one must note that it would pay well if India uses this opportunity to deepen its ties with both France and USA. Connecting the Dots: Discuss the significance of G-7 Summit in current global scenario.

Sep 17, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 72

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 72 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements regarding India’s Cooling Action Plan (ICAP): ICAP has been released by Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). The plan will help in reducing both direct and indirect emissions. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) With reference to the parliament of India, which of the following Parliamentary committees scrutinizes the assurances, promises, undertakings etc. given by ministers from time to time and report to the respective house and see whether such implementation has taken place within the minimum time necessary for the purpose? Committee on Subordinate Legislation Business Advisory Committee Committee on Public Accounts Committee on Government Assurances Q.3) ‘Exercise Samudra Laksamana’ is naval bilateral exercise between India and Singapore Thailand Malaysia Sri Lanka Q.4) ‘Valley of Flowers National Park’ is located in Uttarakhand Arunachal Pradesh Sikkim Goa Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Bharal’ It is found in Indian Himalayas only. It is listed as ‘Critically Endangered’ under the IUCN Red List. 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

Sep 16, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th September 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th September 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) SURVEY OF INDIA (SoI) Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – Governance In News SoI to deploy 300 drones for mapping country Currently the best SoI maps have a resolution of 1:250000, meaning a 1 cm on the map represents 2500 cm on the ground. The new maps being prepared will be of 1:500 resolutions, meaning 1 cm will represent 500 cm. The aim is to map 75% of India’s geography— about 2.4 million sq km of the 3.2 million sq km — within the next two years. Other than unprecedented detail, creation of High-resolution maps will facilitate digitisation of land titles in villages. Based on the availability of accurate maps, residents will finally be able to get property cards as well as proper legal titles to their lands Do you know? Survey of India is the National Survey and Mapping Organization of the country It is the oldest scientific department of the Govt. of India. It was set up in 1767 with its headquarters at Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is under the Department of Science & Technology It has the responsibility to ensure that the country's domain is explored and mapped suitably. It also provides base maps for expeditious and integrated development. Vulture Conservation Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III – Environmental Conservation In News The population of the vultures in the country declined sharply from 40 million in the 80s to a few thousand by 2009. The major reason behind the vulture population getting nearly wiped out was the drug Diclofenac, found in the carcass of cattle the vultures fed on. The drug, whose veterinary use was banned in 2008, was commonly administered to cattle to treat inflammation. To study the cause of deaths of vultures, a Vulture Care Centre (VCC) was set up at Pinjore, Haryana in 2004. At present there are nine Vulture Conservation and Breeding Centres (VCBC) in India, of which three are directly administered by Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS). The objective of the VCBCs is not only to look after the vultures and breed them in captivity, but also to release them into the wild. The total number of vultures in these VCBCs is now more than 700. These days the forest department burning or burying animal carcasses it to keep poachers away. But the practice is denying food to vultures. Thus, scientists at VCBCs have called for better management of carcass dumps. Agri Credit Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III - Economy In News The Internal Working Group (IWG) headed by M.K.Jain, constituted by the RBI to Review Agricultural Credit submitted its report. Some of the recommendations of the group are: Priority sector lending guidelines should have a separate definition for lending to small and marginal farmers based on their land-holding size. Banks should not insist on land records for borrower seeking credit of up to Rs 2 lakh Digitise land records so that banks can create charges against landholdings, which will reduce instances of double or multiple financing on the same piece of land. State governments should reform their legal framework on the basis of the Model Land Leasing Act proposed by NITI Aayog, which will make it easier for farmers to lease land for cultivation and therefore avail credit. A federal institution, like that of the GST Council, should be set up with members from the central and state governments to implement agricultural reforms. At present there is no database of the Indian agriculture sector. Thus, GoI with the help of state governments should develop a centralised database for agriculture capturing details related to crops cultivated, cropping pattern, output, sown/irrigated area, health of soil, natural calamity. Central and state governments should set up a credit guarantee scheme on the lines of credit guarantee schemes for MSME sector to cover the default risk of the borrowers. Interest subvention scheme should be replaced with direct-benefit-transfers to mall and marginal farmers, tenant farmers, sharecroppers, oral lessees and landless labourers as individual borrowers or through self-help-group model up to a limit of Rs 3 lakh (MAINS FOCUS) ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 1: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. India’s growth figures are off the mark Context The economic growth rate (quarterly) for the last five quarters 8% to 7% to 6.6% to 5.8% and now to 5%.(much less than 5%) Experts like IMF , RBI , ADB have been indicating a 7% annual rate of growth Data shows that investment proposals are at a 14-year low. Origin of the slowdown: Unorganised sector producing 45% of the output and employing 94% of the workforce, has been in decline since demonetisation and the Goods and Services Tax , which is pulling down the rate of growth of the economy. The decline in the workforce, the rise in the demand for work under the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, etc. suggests that the unorganised sector has declined by 10%. Why the difference between experts and the actual growth rate? Because these agencies are not independent data gathering agencies and depend on official data. The over-reliance on the organised sector for official GDP data is causing a gross miscalculation The official data only represents the organised sector like: For estimating quarterly growth govt uses ,estimates of Agricultural Production, Index of Industrial Production (IIP) and performance of key sectors like, Railways, Transport other than Railways, Communication, Banking, Insurance and Government Revenue Expenditure.(Except for agriculture, these belong to the organised sector of the economy) For the annual estimates govt uses mining, banking, hotels and restaurants, and transport. For construction, steel, glass, etc are used which are also derived from the organised sector production. The assumption is that the organised sector data represents for the unorganised sector. But with the economy suffering over the last three years which adversely impacted the unorganised sector, this assumption does not hold true. Measures taken and their impact : Recently announced Bank mergers further disturb a major chunk of the banking system in the coming year. Recently announced package for the automobile sector or making banks pass on interest rate cuts to businesses have little impact The announcement of a transfer of Rs 1.76 lakh crore from the RBI to the government will allow the government to maintain the fiscal deficit target at 3.3%. But, this will not provide the needed stimulus.( fiscal deficit today is 9%) Conclusion : The investment rate has hovered at around 30% for the last several years because the capacity utilisation in the economy has been around 75%.Unless this rises, fresh investment will mean even lower capacity utilisation and lower profitability since capital will be underutilised. The official data only represents the organised sector. To incorporate the unorganised sector, data from alternative sources need to be used. Govt must reveal the rate of growth of the unorganised sector that it is using in its estimates and which is not based on using the organised sector as a proxy. Connecting the dots: Do you think over-reliance on the organised sector for official GDP data is causing a gross miscalculation? POLITY/GOVERNANCE TOPIC: General Studies 2: Important Aspects of Governance, Transparency and Accountability, E-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; Citizens Charters, Transparency & Accountability and institutional and other measures. Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes Jan Soochna Portal and National Judicial Data Grid: remarkable achievement in advancing RTI About Jan Soochna Portal (JSP) It was launched by the government of Rajasthan Associated with right to information (RTI) JSP makes State government accountable to everyone People will have access to welfare schemes, revenue activities such as mining, and other service delivery issues such as health and education. Information kiosks in village panchayats and self-service e-Mitra centres in the towns will be established to enable the people to access the information. Department of Information Technology will serve as the nodal department for the development, operationalisation and maintenance of the JSP. National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) By: The e-Committee of the Supreme Court Aim: To provide data on cases pending in the district courts across the country It is a part of the on-going e-Courts Integrated Mission Mode Project, and the NJDG works as a monitoring tool to identify, manage and reduce pendency of cases Do you know? Section 4 of the RTI Act — deals with proactive disclosure of information More than 70,000 cases were pending for over 30 years (according to NJDG) Need of the hour: Transparency should be accompanied by accountability One can cite examples of JSP or NJDG as a proof to support that availability of information (transparency) has led to accountability. Case 1: National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) NJDG had revealed number of pending cases across the country and it held justice delivery system (Chief Justices and Registrars) accountable to such enormous delays. Outcome – Many courts have begun to concentrate on the disposal of old cases with considerable success. Case 2: Jan Soochna Portal (JSP) and associated Janta Information System JSP provides details of every activity of the government such as availability of food grains and ration shops and their distribution, implementation of various schemes and their beneficiaries and a variety of other information. Since the information is available on the Internet, every citizen has access to the information and hence the State government is accountable to everyone. Information available on portal ranges from waived farmers’ loans, mining leases, pollution and environment clearances, production and royalties and taxes paid etc. This kind of information can facilitate a progressive partnership between government and citizens for a cleaner society. Crux: Significance of technology and digitalization: With the use of technology and digitisation of records and information, range of information is made freely available on the JSP or NJDG. Information at free of cost: There is no need for anyone to take recourse to the RTI Act and await a response. All information can be accessed immediately, free of cost. Advances RTI: The launch of such portals are in accordance with the true spirit of the Right to Information (RTI) Act and ensures compliance with Section 4(2) of the RTI Act that mandates the public authorities to proactively disclose information in the public domain. Jan Soochna Portal (JSP) or the National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG) is remarkable achievement in advancing the Right to Information (RTI). Conclusion: Digital divide is indeed a serious problem in India. To bridge this, care should be taken to ensure that access points are open and free. Also steps should be taken to train citizens and make them aware of the facilities available. It would be wonderful if all other State governments follow the Rajasthan government’s initiative (JSP), which aims to make people, including the marginalised sections, a part of the governance process. Connecting the dots: Transparency accompanied by accountability can bring transformation in any system. Substantiate. Do you think citizen participation contribute to good governance? Illustrate with examples or recent initiatives how people can be made a part of the governance process. Citizen’s right to information is increasingly being seen as an important instrument to promote openness, transparency and accountability. Why? Examine. (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 The Internal Working Group (IWG) headed by Bimal Jalan was constituted by the RBI to Review Agricultural Credit scenario in India IWG recommended a federal institution, like that of the GST Council, should be set up with members from the central and state governments to implement agricultural reforms IWG also recommended a credit guarantee scheme to farm loans on the lines of credit guarantee schemes for MSME sector to cover the default risk of the borrowers. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements Assertion (A): The population of the vultures in the country declined sharply from 40 million in the 80s to a few thousand by 2009. Reason (R): The major reason behind the vulture population getting nearly wiped out was the drug Diclofenac, found in the carcass of cattle the vultures fed on. Select the correct answer from the codes given below. Both A & R are correct and R is the correct explanation for A Both A & R are correct but R is not the correct explanation for A A is correct and R is incorrect A is incorrect and R is correct Q.3) Consider the following statements about Survey of India It is the oldest scientific department of the Govt. of India. It was set up in 1767 with its headquarters at Dehradun, Uttarakhand. It is under the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ A dilution that falls short of the law The Hindu Mission successful, end product defunct The Hindu The litmus test for free speech The Hindu Explained: How waived loans impact states Indian Express From Plate to Plough: The right to choose Indian Express Linking patriotism to women’s bodies is uncalled for Indian Express

Sep 16, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 71

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 71 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Collegium System’. The collegium of judges is the Supreme Court’s invention. The collegium recommends the transfer of Chief Justices and other judges. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) ‘Pulikkali’ is a recreational folk art from Tamil Nadu Kerala Odisha Andhra Pradesh Q.3) ‘Part XVII’ of the Constitution of India deals with Official language Emergency provisions The Co-operative Societies Relations between the Union and States Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR)’ It has been undertaken by Department of Telecom It is aimed at addressing security, theft and other concerns including reprogramming of mobile handsets. Select the correct statement 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘GreenCo Rating System’ It is developed by the Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) It is applicable to both manufacturing facilities and service sector units 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

Sep 15, 2019 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Guilt & Success – Inspirational Educative Articles

Guilt & Success: You might wonder what the connection is between guilt and success. There is a connection and a very strong one at that. There are two ways in which guilt and success are connected; one is, guilt stops you from taking time to do things that matter to your success, and the other is guilt subconsciously makes you want to not try hard enough to succeed. Just pause for a moment and think about the exact feeling of guilt. It is a complicated emotion that is connected to so many other emotions. Guilt is one of the primary emotional forces responsible for failure. And it is guilt that people use to keep reminding you that you are not good enough to succeed greatly. Guilt is not only a feeling that you experience when you have done something terribly wrong. There are so many instances where you feel guilty for even things you have not done. One of the hardest things to know is if you are right when you have done or not done something. This unsure feeling is what leads to guilt. In fact you don’t need a reason to feel guilty. Just not being sure about the right and wrong of actions is enough to create guilt. Since most of the time we live in the gray are of not being sure about the exact right, the exact truth and exact good, we replace this feeling of uncertainty with feelings of guilt. Almost 90% of the reasons for which we feel guilty are simply imaginary. Yes, certainly there are a few things for which we can genuinely feel guilty, but most other times it is simply a negative limiting emotion that has no basis in reality. It is important to understand that the single biggest factor that can hamper your progress in life is the feeling of guilt. Guilt is such a deep negative emotion that it can completely destroy your self-confidence. It can completely make you feel worthless. One of the main reasons why guilt is such a negative emotions is because it is self-inflicted. It is a lot easier to fight negative emotions when generated by others, than when it is created by us. Since guilt is almost always a self-condemning cathartic process, it becomes embedded deeply in our psyche affecting all our daily actions and future goals. Guilt destroys your self –image which is one of the crucial things that contribute to your success. So then, how can you avoid the habit of feeling guilty for anything and everything? You can go beyond this habit by establishing your own rules of right and wrong and sticking by it. When you don’t have your own measuring yardstick of right and wrong you are constantly looking for approval from people around you and when you don’t get the necessary approval for your behavior you feel guilty. The easiest way to avoid this is to precisely define what is right and wrong for you and live by it. This might sound a little crazy, but this is the only way to go beyond daily guilt and succeed in life. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Meditation Farm and IASBABA.”

Sep 14, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th September 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) MAITREE EXERCISE Part of: GS Prelims and GS-II – International Affairs In News Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-2019 between India and Thailand will be conducted at Umroi (Meghalaya) from 16-29 Sep 2019. Exercise MAITREE is an annual training event which is being conducted alternatively in Thailand and India since 2006. The scope of this exercise covers company level joint training on counter terrorism operations in jungle and urban scenario. The joint military exercise will enhance the level of defence co-operation between Indian Army (IA) and Royal Thailand Army (RTA) which in turn will further foster defence cooperation and bilateral relations between the two nations Salmonella Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II- Health In News MDH sambar masala were recalled from retail stores in California after tests by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) showed positive for salmonella. Salmonella is a group of bacteria that can cause food-borne illnesses known as salmonellosis Individuals who develop salmonellosis may show symptoms such as nausea, diarrhoea, fever, and abdominal cramps 12-72 hours after contracting the infection. In some cases the diarrhoea is severe, and there is risk of it spreading from the intestines to the bloodstream and to other parts of the body. In such cases, the infection (enteric fever) may result in death if the infected individual is not treated with antibiotics on time. According to estimates by the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Salmonella causes 1.2 million illnesses, 23,000 hospitalisations and about 450 deaths in the United States every year. WHO identifies Salmonella as one of four key global causes of diarrhoeal diseases. Salmonellosis in humans is generally contracted through the consumption of contaminated food of animal origin (mainly eggs, meat, poultry, and milk), although other foods, including green vegetables contaminated by manure, have been implicated in its transmission. Jan Soochna Portal Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II - RTI In News The first-ever public information portal was launched in Rajasthan – named Jan Soochna Portal - to provide information about government authorities and departments suo motu to the public This is in lines with true spirit of the Right To Information Act, which calls for voluntary disclosure of information by government authorities The portal initially gives information pertaining to 13 departments - such as the number of beneficiaries of schemes, works undertaken in different areas, land records and social security pensions — will be available on the portal With different sections divided into districts, blocks and panchayats, the portal empowers the common people with access to useful information, without the need to file RTI application. The portal would eventually turn out to be an effective medium for “digital dialogue” with the people as well as a strong instrument for ensuring transparency in governance The portal has brought yet another distinction to Rajasthan, where the RTI movement had started in 1990s. SAHIBGANJ MULTI-MODAL TERMINAL (MMT) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III -Economy In News PM Modi inaugurated the second riverine Multi-Modal Transport Terminal at Sahibganj, Jharkhand It has been constructed on River Ganga (NW-1) under the Jal Marg Vikas Project under the PPP model. Acting as a point of convergence for Road-Rail-River routes, Sahibganj MMT is strategically located in the logistic chain of Eastern Transport Corridor of India. The MMT will specially benefit the coal sector, stone chips, fertiliser, cement and sugar industries in the states Jharkhand and Bihar by connecting them to global markets. It will also provide alternate route for Nepal bound cargo and open up international markets for sea trade for land locked states of Jharkhand and Bihar. The terminal will be connected to North-East States via Bangladesh by a river-sea route. This is the second riverine multi-modal terminal in the country, the first has been built in Varanasi and was inaugurated in November, 2018. NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 1: Social empowerment General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes Tabrez Ansari case Context: Lynching has assumed a rising trend in recent times – Dadri lynching case of cow slaughtering, Jharkhand Lynching case and recent Tabrez Ansari case. Recent Police decision of dropping charges against those accused of lynching Tabrez Ansari is a cause of concern. Lynching is one of the ways used by majority to intimidate the minority sections of the society. Contemporary issues There have been many incidences of Mob Lynching Incidents of gang-rapes (especially Dalits) Freedom and Fundamental Rights of J&K people were suppressed Inefficient NRC process Atrocities towards minorities Major Concerns: Lynching is not defined in the Indian legal system and there are no punishments with regards to lynching thus giving a free way to hate crime perpetrators India’s criminal justice system has always been biased against disadvantaged castes, women and Muslims There is open bias of the criminal justice system (as visible in recent mob lynching case of Tabrez Ansari) Tolerance of the open and profound injustice done to “other people” Increasingly dominant behavioural and socio-psychological trends Violation of right to equality and the right to freedom; Right to life The judiciary—the bulwark of a liberal democratic state—has not always played its role adequately Weak response by the state Conclusion: Lynching is an egregious manifestation of prejudice, intolerance, and contempt towards the rule of law. The strategic silence of the State and the ineffective law and order machinery has further given legitimacy to mob lynching. It is high time that the States and the Centre show some urgency so that creeping threats are prevented from metastasizing into an out-of-control monster. The biased outcome of the lynching case must concern us all. As Martin Luther King quoted – “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” Quote from the article: “Freedom is indivisible; the chains on any one of my people were the chains on all of them, the chains on all of my people were the chains on me.” – Nelson Mandela Note: We can use above quote in essays or while answering questions related to Freedom, Minority rights/issues and Oppression. Value Addition: Nelson Mandela in his speech on freedom said above words, "freedom is indivisible". According to him, ‘Freedom’ is an abstract idea, which is unable to be divided or separated. Mandela as a child used to believe he is always free and in everywhere. But as grew up, he felt the chains of oppression. Freedom can't be seen rather it is felt. It is like the air. Mandela realized not only he was suppressed, barred but also his people were too. Even the oppressor and oppressed both were suffering from the lack of freedom, according to him. Connecting the dots: Lynching by mobs has become a recurring phenomenon in India. What can be the possible factors behind this trend? Examine. Also suggest ways to address it. ENVIRONMENT/BIO DIVERSITY TOPIC: General Studies 3: Environment and Ecology, Bio diversity - Conservation, environmental degradation, environmental impact assessment, Environment versus Development. Land Reforms in India. Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment Afforestation – Step towards green initiative Context: India has committed to restoring 26 million hectares of degraded land by 2030. It proposes to create a carbon sink of close to three billion metric tonnes through additional tree cover. At UN Convention to Combat Climate Change, Prime Minister Narendra Modi committed to reduce carbon emission by planning afforestation programs in India. According to a recent study from Centre for Science and Environment – Soil degradation causes more carbon emission compared to any other activity indicating the need to restore the soil. Soil stores three times more carbon than that of atmosphere. Focus should be on reducing carbon sink with intensive afforestation programs. Right tree species with better forestry measures is a centre point of focus. Concerns: ‘Carbon credit markets’ have failed to generate funds for the developing world World countries have moved from regime of mandatory commitments (as part of 1997 Kyoto Protocol) to voluntary ones (under the 2015 Paris accord). This shift has negatively impacted carbon credit markets. Developing countries like India were issued carbon emission reduction certificates (which were bought by EU countries for funding clean projects). However, these certificates were often underpriced and were accorded to wrong projects, and hence failed to positively reduce carbon emission/carbon credits. Global funding for afforestation — Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Degradation plus conservation, sustainable management of forests, and enhancement of forest carbon stocks (REDD+) — failed to provide accurate carbon pricing and negotiate rights of traditional communities. The way ahead: A multilateral body just for funding green initiatives must be set up. Step towards green initiatives – such as policy push to solar power and the efforts to shift to EVs – should be accelerated. Policy focus should be mainly on afforestation (through effective implementation of CAMPA) Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) Started from Supreme Court of India in 2002. This is the amount paid by the developers who have utilized the forest lands for their construction work/projects. Ensures that the destroyed forest land is restored by regenerating the forest trees elsewhere in non-forest areas. Conclusion: Last November UNEP released a report on ‘emissions gap’ which indicated the global carbon emission reached its highest in 2017 after 3 years of stagnation. As the soil emits more carbon than any other sources, steps has to be taken to reduce carbon emission from soil. Afforestation is a crucial measure to combat carbon emission there by helping green initiative movement. Connecting the dots: What do you mean by Emission Trading Scheme (ETS)? Does India need one? Discuss. What is the National REDD+ strategy? What are its objectives? Explain. (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 Salmonella Salmonella is a group of viruses that can cause food-borne illnesses known as salmonellosis. WHO identifies Salmonella as one of four key global causes of diarrhoeal diseases. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Sahibganj Multi-Modal Transport Terminal It is second riverine Multi-Modal Transport Terminal located at Bihar Acting as a point of convergence for Road-Rail-River routes, Sahibganj MMT is strategically located in the logistic chain of Eastern Transport Corridor of India. It will also provide alternate route for Nepal bound cargo and open up international markets for sea trade for land locked states of Bihar and Jharkhand Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.3) Jan Soochna Portal to bring transparency in governance by voluntary disclosure of information is launched by which Indian State? Karnataka Maharashtra Delhi Rajasthan MUST READ In Afghan peace derailment, a wagon of hope The Hindu A milestone in greater transparency, accountability The Hindu Valley of discontent: Contempt for politicians and media overrides ‘azadi’ in Kashmir The Hindu Missing the worm’s eye view Indian Express

Sep 14, 2019 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance: Book Review – Understanding the Dead Sea scrolls – Hershel Shanks

Understanding the Dead Sea scrolls: Hershel Shanks The Dead Sea scrolls contain some of the most magnificent secrets of human civilization, stored and forgotten for more than 2000 years. These scrolls were a part of an ancient civilization and way of life that has been long forgotten. Dead Sea scrolls represent some of the most intricate mysteries of life and beyond. These scrolls, which were stored in mud pots and hidden in a remote cave, were accidentally discovered by a few shepherds. Very little did they know about the significance of this discovery and very little did they know of the value of these scrolls. When these scrolls eventually reached the scholars and were interpreted, it revealed and is continuing to reveal some amazing insights about a secret way of life that has all but disappeared now. This book offers a way to read and understand these texts. Some of us might think what is the relevance of reading such ancient hidden away scriptures now and what relevance can it have to our modern lifestyle? If this is the case then we should not be interested in history at all. Human history offers us ways to understand our life better. It helps us to avoid the same mistakes made again and again throughout history. It also opens up our understanding of life. “Understanding the Dead Sea scrolls” is a fascinating read to dive into the depths of an ancient mystery that is a part of all modern cultures. Studying these scriptures is like studying the roots of ancient civilizations. It can tremendously enhance your ability to understand the human culture.