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All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - Bilateral ties between India and Bhutan

Bilateral ties between India and Bhutan ARCHIVES Listen to the 17th August 2019 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx  TOPIC: General Studies 2 India and its neighbourhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests In News: Prime Minister Narendra Modis two-day visit to Bhutan was aimed at re-engaging with the Himalayan neighbour during his second term in office as part of his ‘neighbourhood first’ policy. It has signalled a deepening of the bilateral ties with both sides making efforts to diversify and develop their ties to a wider variety of sectors that go much beyond the traditional cooperation in the hydropower sector. Background Modi’s trip is his first to Bhutan since the China-India military face-off in 2017, triggered by an intrusion by Chinese troops into territory claimed by Bhutan. It aims to diversify India’s partnership with the kingdom from cooperation in the hydro-power sector to enhanced trade and linkages in space and education. It comes in the backdrop of efforts by Beijing to woo Thimphu as well as calls within sections of the Bhutanese political establishment for stronger diplomatic ties with China and a shift away from its hydel power ties with India. Agreements and MoU Signed Trade & Exports: India will provide ₹400 crore for a trade support facility to encourage Bhutanese exporters, a special focus and a special package is being given in this five-year plan as trade support for companies and manufacturers to incentivise them to export more to India Hydropower: India is providing ₹5,000 crore for Bhutan’s 12th five-year plan that began in 2018, the same as the allocation for the previous plan. Hydro-power, however, will continue to be an important sector of cooperation between the two neighbours with the two sides looking to start discussions on the 2,500 MW Sankosh project Space: The two prime ministers inaugurated ₹7-crore ground earth station built by India’s space agency to allow Bhutan to use a transponder on the South Asian Satellite for broadcast services and disaster management – will enhance the communication, public broadcasting and disaster management coverage in Bhutan. Digital Finance: India launched its Rupay card in Bhutan that would boost tourism and lead to shared spiritual heritage and strong people-to-people relationship. Education: Unveiled e-plaque of the interconnection between India’s National Knowledge Network and Bhutan’s Druk Research and Education Network. Collaboration and relationship between Royal Bhutan University and IITs of India and some other top educational institutions are in line with today’s requirements for education and technology. Inauguration of Mangdechhu hydropower project: Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 720-MW Mangdechhu hydropower project during his two-day visit to Bhutan, one of the major projects under Bhutan's initiative to generate 10,000 MW hydropower by 2020 with the Indian government's support. The Rs 4,500-crore hydroelectric plant, touted as a Bhutan-India friendship project, is a 720MW run-of-river power plant built on the Mangdechhu River in Trongsa Dzongkhag district of central Bhutan. It was developed by the Mangdechhu Hydroelectric Project Authority (MHPA), which was jointly constituted by the Indian and the Bhutanese governments. China in Bhutan Tourism stands to be the second greatest economic contributor to Bhutan’s GDP and China has resorted to using tourist trends as economic leverage. There has been a significant increase in Chinese tourists to Bhutan, but this fastest growing industry witnessed a major drop in tourist arrivals after the Doklam standoff. This came as a warning to Bhutan about the country’s vulnerability. There are also concerns about Bhutan’s economic progress under India’s umbrella. The current Bhutanese government faces major challenges with respect to rising unemployment and rising foreign debt to India. As the government seeks to shift away from a dependence on hydropower for economic growth, Chinese investment has caught the attention of both young people and the private sector as offering a better future – but India still stands as the major hurdle to realizing that dream.  There is a growing interest in Bhutan for diplomatic relations with China. The issue has now become a part of the public debate and the government is facing large-scale pressure from the private sector to establish economic relations with China. Bhutan would like to benefit from the growing Chinese ties in the region as well but the pressure from India seems to be choking the country today. The Way Forward India and Bhutan celebrated 50 years of diplomatic ties in 2018. Now it is time for New Delhi to level up its relationship with Thimpu. In this pursuit, the focus should not only be on government-to-government engagement but also on people-to-people interaction and development.  The fundamental area of cooperation is the hydro power sector but both sides needed to deepen the relationship in other areas — education, health care, science and technology. It can also stem out from regional diplomacy with Indian Himalayan states, such as Ladakh, which shares common religious and cultural ties with Bhutan dating back centuries. This must be supplemented by institutions and policies that could ease the people-to-people connectivity between the two Himalayan regions. It is time for India to take Bhutan seriously, with a more mature and coherent policy. India’s casual dealings with Bhutan could be detrimental to its security and economy under the present geopolitical dynamics steered mainly by China. Do you Know? PM Modi plants a Cypress tree sapling at Bhutan's historic Simtoka Dzong in Thimpu: Built-in 1629 by Shabdrung Namgyal, a Tibetan Buddhist lama who is regarded as the unifier of Bhutan as a nation-state, Simtoka Dzong is one of the oldest fortress in the Himalayan nation and functions as a monastic and administrative centre. Must read: India Bhutan Relations  + Mindmap Connecting the Dots: India-Bhutan partnership today is of a special character and substance and forms an important pillar of Government of India's 'Neighbourhood First' policy. Discuss. Himalayan linkages can be seen as a constraining factor or as a great regional foreign policy connector. What do you think? Explain. Bhutan is India’s most trusted partner but it shouldn’t be taken for granted. Critically analyse relation between both countries.

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Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 30th August 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 30th August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III – Environmental Conservation In News PM Modi will launch an International CDRI during the UN Climate Action Summit in New York on September 23.  The Coalition’s secretariat will be set up in New Delhi.  The CDRI will create a mechanism to assist countries for upgrading their capacities and practices with regard to infrastructure development in accordance with their risk context and economic needs. It will bring together technical expertise from a multitude of stakeholders.  The charter of the CDRI will be finalized by the National Disaster Management Authority (in consultation with Ministry of External Affairs) after taking inputs from potential member countries  India will provide support of Rs 480 crore (approx. $ 70 million) to the CDRI so as to support research projects, setting up secretariat and covering recurring expenditure over a period of five years from 2019 to 2024. Potential: A clear niche for a Global CDRI would simultaneously address the loss reduction targets under the Sendai Framework, address a number of SDGs and also contribute to climate change adaptation. Compensatory Afforestation Fund (CAF) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II – Issues relating to Federalism In News The Union Environment Ministry on Thursday transferred ₹47,436 crore to 27 States for afforestation as a part of CAF Levies are imposed on firms (under Forest Conservation Act 1980) that seeks to divert forest land for developmental activities, which are accrued in the CAF The amount to be paid by industry depends on the economic value of the goods and services that the razed forest would have provided.  These funds were supposed to be disbursed to states to plant trees elsewhere so as to compensate the loss of forest due to development projects Only a fraction of this corpus had actually been disbursed to states, due to the lack of a legal framework (until CAF Act, 2016) and instances of States using it for non-forestry purposes. The CAF Act 2016, established an independent authority — the Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority — to execute the fund. The rules governing the management of the fund were finalised in August 2018. The release of fund to States will boost the efforts of the Government towards restoration and enhancement of forest wealth, enhance bio-richness, water availability and secure ecological security of the country The funds will also help in creating the additional carbon sink to meet the nation’s INDC of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent through additional forest and tree cover by the year 2030. Do You know? The rate of diversion of forest land for non-forestry activities is roughly 20,000-25,000 hectare per year in India (as per Minister of Environment in 2016) 90% of CAF funds will flow to States & UT afforestation fund which can be used for catchment area treatment, wildlife management, forest fire prevention, soil and moisture conservation work in the forest However, it cannot be used for payment of salary, travelling allowances, making buildings and buying office equipment for forest officers 10% of CAF funds will be utilized by Centre for monitoring mechanism and R&D activities Foreign Direct Investment(FDI) Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III – Economy In News In an effort to get economic growth government has liberalised FDI rules in various sectors Digital media: Government approved FDI up to 26% under the “government route” for digital media companies that upload or stream news and current affairs. Digital news media was unregulated & thriving with 100% FDI was allowed in such start ups. Coal mining: Government permitted 100% FDI under automatic route for sale of coal, for coal mining activities including associated processing infrastructure This will result in FDI inflow along with updated technology, and increase India’s coal production thus reducing coal imports. It will also enhance Coal India Limited’s (CIL) competitiveness and efficiency. Contract Manufacturing: Government has decided to allow 100% FDI under automatic route in contract manufacturing in India. Single Brand Retail Trading (SBRT): All procurements made from India by the SBRT entity for the single brand shall be counted towards local sourcing, irrespective of whether the goods procured are sold in India or exported. Do You know? Print media and news broadcast television companies in India have had FDI caps of 26% and 49% respectively. In India, it takes at least six years from getting a mine allocation to actually starting mining operations. In 2018-19 India spent about $8 billion on importing 125 million tonnes of coal for non-coastal thermal plants. State-owned Coal India and Singareni Collieries Company together accounted for 91.6% of the total coal produced in the country during FY2017-18 Total FDI flows into India in 2018-19 i.e. US $ 64.37 billion (provisional figure) is the highest ever FDI received for any financial year. Lucy Part of: GS Prelims In News A 3.8-million-year-old skull named MRD was discovered at a palaeontological site in Ethiopia in 2016  Research on MRD could now clarify the origins of Lucy, the well-known ancestor of modern humans which is estimated to be 3.2 million years old. The finding helps bridge a big gap between the earliest-known human ancestors (about 6 million years old) and species like Lucy. The dating suggests that MRD’s species could have coexisted with Lucy’s for some 100,000 years. It is possible that a small group of MRD’s species became genetically isolated from the rest of the population and evolved into Lucy’s species, whose population eventually out-bred MRD’s species Do You know? The age of MRD was determined by dating minerals in layers of volcanic rocks near the site.  Researchers also combined field observations with analysis of microscopic biological remains to reconstruct the landscape, vegetation, and hydrology in the area where MRD died, Scientists have reconstructed MRD’s facial features and described him as “a mix of primitive and derived facial and cranial features” (MAINS FOCUS) ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth. General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. New FDI Norms  Context: The Centre’s announcement on Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) norms on Wednesday appears to be one more push to make India a more attractive destination to overseas investors, especially those keen on entering the market for the long haul. Concerns: The government, clearly concerned by the economic slowdown and persistently weak investment activity, has sought to provide a policy fillip to attract more foreign capital into sectors that it sees as having a multiplier effect particularly in terms of job creation New Rules: It has provided for a relaxation of the contentious sourcing norms which have been a major deterrent for foreign investment in single-brand retail. Firms can adjust their entire procurement from India, be it for their domestic operations or for global markets, against their local sourcing requirements. Local sourcing norms need not be met annually, but as an average of the first five years. Sourcing, even through group companies or indirectly through third parties such as contract manufacturers, will now be counted towards their domestic sourcing obligations Single brand retailers have also been allowed the option of setting up their online retail platforms before putting in place a brick and mortar presence. The government has allowed 100 per cent FDI in contract manufacturing and in coal mining and related activities such as washery, handling and separation.  How are the new rules significant? Easing of restrictions on foreign investment, which sends a positive signal to the international community So far, India has not been able to take advantage of this ongoing relocation of production facilities out of China. But, these changes in the rules should gradually facilitate foreign firms setting up manufacturing bases in India, providing a boost to both employment and exports. Allowing 100 per cent FDI in contract manufacturing through the automatic route will also attract global players looking to set up alternate manufacturing hubs — diversifying away from China.  Adding exports to the local sourcing norms is also likely to encourage the building of larger production facilities, providing a much needed fillip to the country’s subdued exports. These initiatives are an attempt to create a manufacturing ecosystem, establishing value chains with both upstream and downstream linkages Sectors such as electronics, mobiles, apparel and pharma are likely to benefit the most from these measures. And with India’s electronics imports exceeding $50 billion in 2018-19 — it was the biggest driver of the trade deficit after oil — over time, these measures could also help contain India’s current account deficit. Concerns of New Rules: For instance, the tweaks to investment norms on coal appear at first flush to be a win-win for both the economy at large and the coal industry, the environmental costs of focusing on one of the most polluting fossil fuels notwithstanding. This is predicated on the prospect of seeing an influx of both capital and modern technology into mining and processing, as well as raising domestic supply of the key raw material for power, steel and cement production thereby cutting costly and burgeoning imports.  But for foreign mining companies to make a beeline to pitheads, several related regulatory and market challenges will have to be addressed post-haste Conclusion: All these initiatives need to be accompanied by reforms, especially factor market reforms, that address the structural issues plaguing the economy. The continuing overvaluation of the rupee also needs to be attended to. In the coming weeks, the government is likely to announce more measures to tackle the slowdown. These should be at the top of its agenda. Connecting the dots: How does the foreign investment in India affect India’s economic growth? Critically evaluate in reference to major FDI policy decisions taken recently. NATIONAL/WELFARE TOPIC:General studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections Marine Fisheries Regulation and Management (MFRM) Bill 2019 In news: A Marine Fisheries Regulation and Management (MFRM) Bill 2019 is in the public domain for discussion.  India has obligations to frame laws under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982 and the World Trade Organisation (WTO) agreements.  UNCLOS: Under UNCLOS, which India ratified in 1995, the sea and resources in the water and the seabed are classified into three zones — the internal waters (IW), the territorial sea (TS) and the exclusive economic zone (EEZ).  The IW is on the landward side of the baseline — it includes gulfs and small bays. Coastal states treat IW like land.  The TS extends outwards to 12 nautical miles from the baseline — coastal nations enjoy sovereignty over airspace, sea, seabed and subsoil and all living and non-living resources therein.  The EEZ extends outwards to 200 nautical miles from the baseline. Coastal nations have sovereign rights for exploration, exploiting, conserving and managing all the natural resources therein. Importance of having the regulation: Since fisheries is a state subject, fishing in the IW and TS come within the purview of the states concerned. Other activities in the TS and activities, including fishing beyond the TS up to the limit of the EEZ, are in the Union list. No Central government, so far, has framed laws covering the entire EEZ. This would be the first one to regulate fisheries in comprehensive manner. The annual fishery potential of the country’s EEZ is about 5 million tonnes. Utilising it judiciously is an important priority of the government. It has been underscored by the formation of a new fisheries ministry. The Bill is also a response to discussions on fisheries’ subsidies at the WTO since the Doha Round of 2001. India has been defending the rights of developing nations for special and differential treatment. Developed countries contend that nations without laws to manage fisheries in their respective EEZs are not serious about unregulated fishing. The MFRM Bill is India’s response to such sentiments. Pros: Bigger vessels, particularly trawlers, registered and licenced under state departments, will need a permit to fish. This is a welcome measure to manage the fishing sector. The Bill respects the jurisdiction of our coastal states over the TS. It proposes social security for fish workers and calls for protection of life at sea during severe weather events. Cons: The Bill prohibits fishing by foreign fishing vessels, thus nationalising our EEZ. An Indian fishing vessel desirous of fishing in the EEZ, outside the TS, must obtain a permit. This requirement has been contested by the fishing industry — particularly small-scale operators. There is a faulty assumption in the Bill that only large-scale vessels fish outside the TS. Actually, thousands of small-scale fishing crafts regularly venture into such areas. Their freedom to access fish outside the TS will cease if the Bill becomes law. A few exemption clauses to safeguard their livelihoods should be incorporated in the Bill. The Bill lacks congruence with important regional fishery agreements. It is incomplete compared to the regulations in other coastal nations. Conclusion: Fish cannot be bound by territoriality diktats of the Centre or states. Cooperative governance between them over different territories (IW, TS and EEZ) is key to the sustainable management of marine fisheries.  Small-scale fish workers can demand making the entire IW and TS completely free of trawling using the FAO/UN Small-Scale Fisheries Guidelines to support their arguments. This will raise their incomes, ensure a steady supply to consumers, heal the coastal areas and curb the bane of destructive fishing. Connecting the dots: India is yet to have a central regulation on fisheries. In this light discuss the importance of Marine Fisheries Regulation and Management (MFRM) Bill.  (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 Compensatory Afforestation Fund(CAF) The Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority established under Forest Conservation Act 1980 will execute the fund. 90% of CAF funds will flow to States & UT afforestation fund which can be used for catchment area treatment, wildlife management, salaries and travelling allowances for forest officers. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are incorrect? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI) The CDRI will create a mechanism to assist countries for upgrading their capacities and practices with regard to infrastructure development in accordance with their risk context and economic needs. Its secretariat will be set up in New Delhi.  The charter of the CDRI will be finalized by the National Disaster Management Authority in consultation with Ministry of External Affairs 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) Consider the following statements  Government permitted 100% FDI under automatic route for sale of coal, for coal mining activities including associated processing infrastructure  Total FDI flows into India in 2018-19 is the highest ever FDI received for any financial year Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Which of the following countries are considered as part of Horn of Africa? Eritrea Ethiopia Somalia Gabon  Select the correct answer from codes given below. 1,2 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 1,3 and 4 only 1,2,3 and 4 Must Read: What is the right way of regulating social media? The Hindu Seize the slowdown Indian express A more precarious citizenship Indian Express Gadgil happy over renewed interest in WGEEP report The Hindu To make India the factory of the world Live Mint

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UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 60

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 60 Archives Q.1) Bhagoria Haat Festival is celebrated by which of the tribes of India? Bhils Munda Khasi Angami Q.2) Who appoints Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India? NITI Aayog Government of India Reserve Bank Governor President of India Q.3) Which among the below is a constitutional body? National Development Council Central Information Commission Central Vigilance Commission Finance Commission Q.4) Who of the following social reformers published a set of notes on “Infant Marriage and Enforced Widowhood.”? Ishwarchand Vidyasagar Raja Rammohun Roy Bahramji Malabari Swami Dayananada Q.5) Consider the following Market Borrowings Special securities issued to RBI Treasury Bills Which among the above is / are components of Internal Debt?  1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 2 Only 1, 2 and 3  To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

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Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 29th August 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 29th August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Eastern Economic Forum (EEF) Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II – International Organisations In News Mr. Modi has been invited by Mr. Putin as the chief guest of the EEF to be held in Vladivostok (in Russia’s Far East) on September 5. EEF is an international forum held each year, which was established by decree of the President Putin in 2015 to support the economic development of Russia’s Far East  The Russian Far East comprises the eastern Russian territory between Lake Baikal in eastern Siberia and the Pacific Ocean. This region bordering China is rich in mineral resources like diamonds, borax materials, gold, tungsten, fish and seafood In EEF, India and Russia are likely to seal a military logistics support agreement, the Agreement on Reciprocal Logistics Support (ARLS), ARLS will facilitate access to each other’s’ military facilities for exchange of fuel and provisions on mutual agreement, simplifying logistical support and increasing operational turnaround. A pact may be signed where Russia will construct six nuclear power plants in India, apart from the six being set up in Kudankulam in Tamil Nadu. Do you know? India signed the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Understanding (LEMOA) with the U.S. in August 2016 Russia has assured that it be delivering the S-400 Triumph air defence missile system to India by 2023 despite the US pressure on New Delhi not to acquire the system. America has threatened to impose sanctions on India (for S-400 defence deal) under the CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act) legislation Anti-microbial resistance Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II – Issues relating to Health In News The government has commissioned a ₹9.3 crore study to check antibiotic resistance in along the entire length of the river Ganga. Agencies involved: Motilal Nehru Institute of Technology, Allahabad; the National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur; Sardar Patel Institute of Science & Technology, Gorakhpur and two private companies Phixgen and Xcelris Labs. The aim of the research project is to indicate the type of “contamination” (sewage and industrial) in the river and “threat to human health (antibiotic resistance surge) and identifying sources of Eschericia coli Eschericia coli is a type of bacteria that lives in the gut of animals and humans. Though it is harmless, some species have been linked to intestinal disease as well as aggravating antibiotic resistance. Do You know? Residues of antibiotics reach water bodies through waste discharged from households and industries These antibiotics in water lead to evolution of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics, which then grow in numbers and spread in the environment. Research has shown that levels of resistance genes that lead to “superbugs” (antibiotic-resistant) were about 60 times greater during the pilgrimage months of May and June than at other times of the year. Sisir Kumar Mitra Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III – Science & Technology In News Chandrayaan-2 took photos of various craters on the moon while it was flying over its north pole.  One of the craters it scanned over was a lunar impact crater named Mitra, after the noted Indian physicist, Sisir Kumar Mitra The Working Group for Planetary System Nomenclature (WGPSN), an arm of the International Astronomical Union (IAU) had named the crater after Mitra in 1970. Mitra was the first to introduce radio communication in India and was pioneer in the field of Ionospheric Science and Radio Technology. The ionosphere is a region of the upper atmosphere which extends from 60 km to several thousand kilometres above the earth.  Ionosphere reflects short radio waves, enabling transmission to be made around the curved surface of the earth by sky waves, and its presence is vital for long-distance radio communication.  Other Indian scientists who have their names etched on the moon is Dr Vikram Sarabhai. Jan Aushadhi Sugam Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II – e-governance In News Union Minister for Chemicals launched a mobile application “Jan Aushadhi Sugam”to enable people to search Jan Aushadhi generic medicine stores. The app also enables search of Janaushadhi generic medicines, analyse product comparison of Generic vs Branded medicine in form of MRP & overall Savings, etc Government also announced that “Jan Aushadhi Suvidha Oxo-Biodegradable Sanitary Napkin” will now be available at only One Rupee per pad (earlier cost was Rs 2.50 per pad). Jan Aushadhi Suvidha comes with a special additive, which makes it biodegradable when it comes in contact with oxygen after being discarded. Do You know? About 28 million girls are reported to be leaving education because of lack of availability of good quality Sanitary Napkin” pads at reasonable cost. Jan Aushadhi Suvidha is being made available for sale in more than 5500 PMBJP (Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana) Kendras across the country. Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI) is the implementing agency of PMBJP BPPI was established as an independent society in December, 2008 under the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Government of India. (MAINS FOCUS) ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. RBI transfer surplus to government of India Context: The Central Board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) decided to transfer a sum of ₹1,76,051 ($24.4 billion)  crore to the Government of India (Government) comprising of ₹1,23,414 crore of surplus for the year 2018-19 and ₹52,637 crore of excess provisions identified as per the revised Economic Capital Framework (ECF). To understand what the transfer is, we must first understand where the funds come from. The central bank has three different funds that together comprise its reserves. These are the Currency and Gold Revaluation Account (CGRA), largest and makes up the significant bulk of the RBI’s reserves. The Contingency Fund (CF) and The Asset Development Fund (ADF). Why Government wanted it? The government has argued that relatively lower transfers crimped public spending for infrastructure projects and social sector programmes, considering the pressure to meet deficit targets and to provide space for private firms to borrow. How does the RBI generate surplus? A significant part comes from RBI’s operations in financial markets, when it intervenes for instance to buy or sell foreign exchange; Open Market operations, when it attempts to prevent the rupee from appreciating; As income from government securities it holds; As returns from its foreign currency assets that are investments in the bonds of foreign central banks or top-rated securities; From deposits with other central banks or the Bank for International Settlement or BIS;besides lending to banks for very short tenures and management commission on handling the borrowings of state governments and the central government. RBI buys these financial assets against its fixed liabilities such as currency held by the public and deposits issued to commercial banks on which it does not pay interest. What can the government do with this huge surplus? The money is transferred to the Consolidated Fund of India from which salaries and pensions to government employees are paid and interest payments done, besides spending on government programmes.  The large payout can help the government cut back on planned borrowings and keep interest rates relatively low. Besides, it will provide space for private companies to raise money from markets. And if it manages to meet its revenue targets, the windfall gain can lead to a lower fiscal deficit.  The other option is to earmark these funds for public spending or specific projects, which could lead to a revival in demand in certain sectors and boost economic activity. What did the Jalan Committee recommend? The Jalan Committee, as it was called informally, is actually called the Expert Committee to Review the RBI’s Extant Economic Capital Framework. The committee recommended that the RBI maintain a Contingent Risk Buffer — which mostly comes from the CF — of between 5.5-6.5% of the central bank’s balance sheet. Since the latest CF amount was about 6.8% of the RBI’s balance sheet, the excess amount was to be transferred to the government. The committee also decided, for the year under consideration, to use the lower limit of 5.5% of the range it recommended. So, basically, whatever was excess of 5.5% of the RBI’s assets in the CF was to be transferred. That amount was ₹52,637 crore. Regarding the RBI’s economic capital levels — which is essentially the CGRA — the committee recommended keeping them in the range of 20-24.5% of the balance sheet. Since it stood at 23.3% as of June 2019, the committee felt that there was no need to add more to it, and so the full net income of the RBI — a whopping ₹1,23,414 crore — should be transferred to the Centre. That ₹1.23 lakh crore plus the ₹52,637 crore is what comprises the ₹1.76 lakh crore that the RBI has decided to transfer to the government. It must be noted that this ₹1.76 lakh crore includes the ₹28,000 crore interim dividend earlier transferred to the Centre and does not come over and above it. Recommendation on a profit distribution policy has been endorsed by the Central Board meaning a more transparent and rule-based payout from next year, as in many other central banks, which could help narrow differences between the government and RBI. Conclusion: The bottom line however remains unchanged. India’s economy has weakened in the last few years. To reverse this trend, government needs to unleash a new round of reforms which encompass factors of production such as land, labour and capital. Connecting the dots: Why RBI’s surplus corpus transfer raises more questions? Discuss POLITY TOPIC:General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. Reconstituting and Reforming the Law Commission of India In news: The government is yet to take a call on reconstituting the Law Commission. The last commission had gone out of office a year. The Law Commission of India — the oldest amongst the national-level bodies — remains an odd one even in its 65th year. Background: Law Commission of India is an executive body established by an order of the Government of India. Its major function is to work for legal reform. Its membership primarily comprises legal experts, who are entrusted a mandate by the Government. The Commission is established for a fixed tenure and works as an advisory body to the Ministry of Law and Justice. In the eighth year of Independence, the Government of India decided to revive the British legacy of appointing law commissions to study, research and report on legal matters specified in their terms of reference.  The first commission was set up in 1955. Reports of the commission are generally written individually by members including the chairman and placed before the full commission for discussion and adoption. Issues: Unlike its sister organisations, established much later, it has no fixed composition, no defined eligibility criteria for its chair and members, and no set functions — everything rests on the government’s will.  The terms of reference are specified afresh each time it is reconstituted as if it were an ad hoc body.  Three of the other national commissions those for the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes and Backward Classes, are now regulated by the Constitution and there is a parliamentary charter for each of the national commissions for human rights, minorities, women, children and safai karmcharis. Though the commission’s job requires research-oriented juristic learning, which cannot essentially be the outcome of judicial experience, the commission has been a haven for retired judges.  Members of the commission are also generally drawn from the judiciary, and the member-secretary is always from the bureaucracy.  Way forward and Conclusion: If the commission has to work without regard for extra-legal and political considerations it must have a governing statute defining its powers and responsibilities, and limitations. Before constituting the 22nd Law Commission —the institution should be placed under a proper parliamentary charter.  The government should determine by legislation, the composition, tenure, functions and work procedure of the Law Commission. It should be a predominantly jurists’ commission, not a retired judges’ collective with a sprinkling of legal scholarship and jurisprudential expertise. Connecting the dots: Discuss the importance of the National Commission of India. The commission despited being one of the oldest is yet to be revamped. Comment. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about Eastern Economic Forum EEF is an international forum established by Russia in 1991 to support the economic development of Russia’s Far East  The Russian Far East comprises the eastern Russian territory between Lake Baikal in eastern Siberia and the Pacific Ocean 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 Eschericia coli (E-Choli)  It is a type of virus that which infects humans through mosquito bites It has been linked to intestinal disease as well as aggravating antibiotic resistance. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana The aim of the scheme is to make healthcare affordable by providing generic medicines through Jan Aushadi Kendras It is being implemented by Union Ministry of Health and Family welfare Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Must read: Murder most foul The Hindu Educational reforms require teachers to play a central role Live Mint Message delivered  The Hindu Democracy and its discontents The Hindu

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 59

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 59 Archives Q.1) ‘Guldasta-E-Haqiqat’ is a lyrical Urdu translation of the Ramayana Bhagvad Gita Mahabharat Bijak Q.2) Which of these cities is the capital of a BIMSTEC country? Naypyidaw Kuala Lumpur Vientiane Hanoi Q.3) Bahubali festival is associated with which of the following religions? Buddhism Hinduism Jainism Sikhism Q.4) China has been blamed for purposive devaluation. Consider the following statements in this regard. Price of country’s products in international market may fall due to devaluation of currency Appreciation of currency is always a good thing for the economy Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Federalism is important to Indian economy’s diverse nature. In regard to federalism what is not ideal for the economy? Dynamic and cooperative federalism Cooperative but not competitive federalism States as models and magnets for resources and ideas. Select the appropriate code: 1 and 2 2 Only 1 and 3 2 and 3 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 28th August 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 28th August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Child well-being index Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains I –Society  In News The index is prepared by NGO World Vision India and research institute IFMR LEAD to measure and tracks children’s well-being comprehensively.  The index contains 24 indicators based on three key dimensions of healthy individual development, positive relationships and protective contexts. Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh and Puducherry topped the index rankings whereas Meghalaya, Jharkhand and Madhya Pradesh were at the bottom of rankings The report helps States to prioritise the areas of interventions with respect to improving the status of children Some of the key indicators that need to be studied in the future include mobile usage, digital access, financial literacy, mental health and quality of relationships per se, between parents/peers and children https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/hpxglu/article29272083.ece/alternates/FREE_615/Col-Childrencol Bonn Challenge Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III – Environment Conservation In News India for the first time will be hosting the 14th session of the Conference of Parties (COP-14) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) from 2nd -13th September 2019 Bonn Challenge is a global effort to bring 150 million hectares of the world’s deforested and degraded land into restoration by 2020, and 350 million hectares by 2030 At the UNFCC COP 2015 in Paris, India also joined the voluntary Bonn Challenge pledge to bring into restoration 13 million hectares of degraded and deforested land by the year 2020, and additional 8 million hectares by 2030. In India about 29% or about 96.4 million hectares are considered degraded (soil becoming unfit for cultivation) Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, Soil Health Card Scheme, Soil Health Management Scheme and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana are some of the schemes to tackle land degradation. Do You know? United Nations has 3 Rio Conventions namely, United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD).  Established in 1994 UNCCD is the only legally binding international agreement linking environment and development issues to the land agenda In 1994, the United Nations General Assembly declared 17 June the "World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought" to promote public awareness and the implementation of the UNCCD Fedor  Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III – Science & Technology In News Fedor short for Final Experimental Demonstration Object Research is a Russian humanoid robot which has recently reached International Space Station(ISS). Fedor weighing 160 kg & standing 180 cm tall, was sent in an unmanned Soyuz capsule from the launch pad at Russia’s space facility in Baikonur, Kazakhstan.  It will copy human movements and will help with high-risk tasks at the ISS specially to work on the outside of the ISS While Fedor is Russia’s first robot in space, in 2011, NASA sent up Robonaut 2 and in 2013 Japan sent up a small robot called Kirobo into Space. Do You Know? The International Space Station is habitable artificial satellite in low Earth orbit.  The ISS programme is a joint project between five participating space agencies:  NASA - USA  Roscosmos - Russia  JAXA - Japan  ESA – Europe CSA – Canada The ownership and use of the space station is established by intergovernmental treaties and agreements The ISS serves as a microgravity and space environment research laboratory in which crew members conduct experiments in biology, human biology, physics, astronomy, meteorology, and other fields Xenotransplantation Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III – Science & Technology In News Xenotransplantation is the transplanting of organs from one species to another Pioneering transplant surgeon Sir Terence English, who had performed the first heart transplant in the United Kingdom in 1979, declared that his team would transplant a pig’s kidney into a human’s body by end of 2019. The first attempts at animal-to-human transplants were made in 1838, when the cornea of a pig was transplanted into a human. Over the past century there has been unsuccessful attempts to transfer organs from pigs, goats, sheep, monkeys, chimpanzees, baboons and pigs into humans With a lack of human cadavers as donors, researchers are looking at animal organs as viable alternative. A pig’s genetic make-up and internal organs are similar to a human’s. Its weight, lipids, arterial pressure, heart rate, renal function, electrolyte balance, and digestive system match those in the human body Disadvantage with xenotransplantation: fear of transmission of viruses from animals to humans and high rejection rate (human body’s immune system starts working against any foreign organ) Do You Know? India’s national registry shows 1,945 liver and 7,936 kidney transplants were conducted in 2018.  However, India needs 1.8-2 lakh kidney transplants every year, as per the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare data. In 1997, Dr Dhani Ram Baruah attempted pig-to-human heart transplant on a patient in Guwahati who died a week later due to infection. He was held guilty of an unethical procedure, culpable homicide, violation of the Transplantation of Human Organs Act, 1994 and sent to jail. (MAINS FOCUS) NAGALAND  TOPIC: General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections Chasing peace in Nagaland Context: More than three years ago, the government led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced with much fanfare the signing of a historic framework agreement to end the Naga insurgency, which is often termed as the mother of all insurgencies in India.  Concern: Lasting peace in the Northeast is not possible without resolving the Naga insurgency Framework Agreement: The framework agreement was signed between the Central government and the Naga Groups led by the National Socialist Council of Nagaland- Isak- Muivah (NSCN-IM). The central government accepted the uniqueness of Naga history and culture and primacy of the Indian Constitution was accepted by the NSCN-IM. Earlier the objective of Naga group was to establish an independent sovereign state for the Naga community but now the demand has been limited to the creation of a Greater Nagalim with the integration of the Naga-inhabited areas of Assam, Manipur and Arunachal Pradesh Key notes: Shillong Accord, 1975: The Naga National Council (NNC) led by Angami Zapu Phizo accepted the Indian Constitution. NNC was formed in 1946 to hold the Naga community and their interest together. NSCN, 1980: to oppose the decision of NNC to accept Indian Constitution, Maoist guerilla leaders Isak Chisi Swu, Thuingaleng Muivah, and SS Khaplang created NSCN in 1980. Later after the differences between the leaders, in 1988, the group split into the NSCN-IM and the NSCN-K. After the death of Phizo in 1991, the NSCN-IM came to be recognized as the voice of Naga assertion. The ceasefire agreement, 1997: Govt. of India and NSCN-IM signed a ceasefire agreement which started the peace talks with resolving the conflict but the demand of the group insisted on a separate flag as well as the inclusion of all Naga-inhabited areas in one administration became a roadblock in the peace talks. Later in 2015, the framework agreement was signed. Significance of the agreement: First-time NSCN-IM wipes out its demand for attaining sovereignty for Nagas from India. The agreement has started the peace talks between the government and the groups. The agreement shifts the nature of the group who prefer violence as a method to achieve their aims as now the groups are regularly held consultations with the government. The agreement will strengthen the security of India as the agreement will provide maximum sovereignty to the Nagas to grow. The agreement would generate more trusts among Nagas. Criticisms of the agreement: Though the agreement was signed three years ago there is no progress since then. The agreement is a secretive agreement as the provisions of the agreements have not been disclosed by the government which makes the rebel groups more active. The agreement has failed to address the illegal activities of NSCN-IM. The demand for autonomy to Nagas in other states i.e. Assam, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh will be a threat to integrity. Special arrangement for Nagas as per Article 371 and similar concessions are expected by Manipur also as the Naga insurgency is linked with Manipur insurgency where the Nagas are more active. The agreement does not address other important issues like the demand of Separate ‘flag’, non-codification of Naga customary law. Politically unviable to accept this demand even though the Centre has agreed to guarantee the protection of the Naga identity. The non-Nagas and other ethnic groups may be tempted to demand a similar arrangement Conclusion: Lasting peace in the Northeast is not possible without resolving the Naga insurgency, which had also lent some form of support to other disaffected elements in the region from time to time. However, given the complexities involved, there is no easy solution. In other words, any pronouncement about the Naga accord needs to be taken with a pinch of salt. (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) Which of the following best reflects the meaning of Xenotransplantation? Transferring mitochondrial DNA from donor into recipient embryo Process of plant reproduction whereby new plant grows from a fragment of the parent plant Transplanting of organs from one species to another None of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements  Fedor is Russia’s first robot in space which has recently reached International Space Station(ISS) ISS is a joint project between NASA, JAXA, Roscosmos, ISRO and European Space Agency Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about Bonn Challenge It aims to aims to conserve terrestrial, aquatic and avian migratory species throughout their range. India has also joined the voluntary Bonn Challenge pledge. 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 Child well-being index It is released by NITI Aayog to track state’s progress in enhancing children’s well-being in a comprehensive manner Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Himachal Pradesh and Puducherry topped this year’s index ranking Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ Cooking with gas, not wood The Hindu Rediscovering development banks  The Hindu Why women are still being treated as unequal to men Live mint Deforestation, desertification and climate solutions Financial express

RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – 10th Schedule

10th Schedule Archives TOPIC: General studies 2 Indian Constitution- historical underpinnings, evolution, features, amendments, significant provisions and basic structure. Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein. Parliament and State Legislatures – structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. In news: Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu said the time has come to revisit the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution. The Vice President, underlining the need to revisit the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution, also known as the anti-defection law, said, “We should discuss this and come to a conclusion. Legislatures are for debate, discussion without disruption. Further, credibility, capability and capacity should be the yardstick for anyone to enter the legislature and not caste, cash and criminality.” A comprehensive relook on the statute is required, he emphasised.  The Punjab Assembly has issued a notice to Sukhpal Singh Khaira, former rebel AAP leader and MLA from Bholath, for disqualification under the 10th Schedule of the Constitution. Mr. Khaira had resigned from the party on 6th January, but had not resigned as a legislator. Later, without informing, he floated a new political outfit. Anti-defection Law The anti-defection law under 10th Schedule of the Constitution was enacted through the 52nd amendment after a prominent culture of ‘Aaya Ram Gaya Ram’, in which legislators used to change parties frequently, was witnessed in the Indian polity. Aaya Ram Gaya Ram was a phrase that became popular in Indian politics after a Haryana MLA Gaya Lal changed his party thrice within the same day in 1967.   The anti-defection law sought to prevent such political defections which may be due to reward of office or other similar considerations. The Tenth Schedule was inserted in the Constitution in 1985.  Tenth schedule It lays down the process by which legislators may be disqualified on grounds of defection by the Presiding Officer of a legislature based on a petition by any other member of the House.  A legislator is deemed to have defected if he either voluntarily gives up the membership of his party or disobeys the directives of the party leadership on a vote (voting against the direction of whip in the house) This implies that a legislator defying (abstaining or voting against) the party whip on any issue can lose his membership of the House.  The law applies to both Parliament and state assemblies. Are there any exceptions under the law? The law allows a party to merge with or into another party provided that at least two-thirds of its legislators are in favour of the merger.  In such a scenario, neither the members who decide to merge, nor the ones who stay with the original party will face disqualification. The amendment, by which the Tenth Schedule was inserted in the Constitution, did three broad things. Firstly, it made legislators liable to be penalised for their conduct both inside (voting against the whip of the party) and outside (making speeches, etc.) the legislature — the penalty being the loss of their seats in Parliament or the state legislatures. Secondly, it protected legislators from disqualification in cases where there was a split (with 1/3rd of members splitting) or merger (with 2/3rds of members merging) of a legislature party with another political party. Thirdly, it made the Presiding Officer of the concerned legislature the sole arbiter of defection proceedings The 2003 Amendment The last step in the legislative journey of the anti-defection law came in 2003. A Constitution Amendment Bill was introduced in Parliament by the government of Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee to address some of the issues with the law. A committee headed by Pranab Mukherjee examined the Bill. Pranab Mukherjee Committee observations: It is observed that the lure of office of profit plays dominant part in the political horse-trading resulting in spate of defections and counter defections. The one-third split provision which offered protection to defectors was deleted from the law on the committee’s recommendation. The 2003 Amendment also incorporated the 1967 advice of the Y B Chavan committee in limiting the size of the Council of Ministers, and preventing defecting legislators from joining the Council of Ministers until their re-election. Injustice to a legislator’s right to vote: Legislators have become mere hostages of whip-driven tyranny (actual power residing in the political party)—Unable to vote according to his conscience, convictions, common sense and constituency concerns The party whip— Directs its members which way to vote practically on each and every bill (enforced adherence – a member invariably ends up voting for a bill if he/she is on the Treasury benches and against a bill if he/she is in the Opposition; parliamentarians sometimes voting against a legislative instrument which they had supported previously, depending on whether their party occupies the Opposition or Treasury benches) Disincentivises lawmakers from seriously thinking, researching or even striving for best practices to incorporate into legislation that is before the House for consideration and focus their energies on procedural matters Absence of a sunset clause— If a bad law is enacted, it remains on the statute books for at least a century Recent Trend: The usage of House majorities to get even Private Members’ Bills defeated at the introduction stage thus, restricting whatever little space individual members have left for legislative activity Increasing Moral Deviations & Anti-Defection Policies: Criminalisation of politics, disrespect to parliamentary conventions, parliamentary disruptions and improper conduct of members, has added to the glaring legislative paralysis. The intention behind bringing in Anti-Defection law was to curb political defections, promote party discipline and bring stability in the structures of political parties; on the contrary, it has led to the following: Curbs the Right to Dissent & Freedom of Conscience Ban on retail defections & legalisation of wholesale defections The Way forward: There is a need to prevent unholy alliances. Parties form post-poll coalitions with the opposing parties only to form government, even when the ideologies do not match and against the wishes of elected legislators, as happened in case of Karnataka.  Parties should promote internal democracy for the member to express their opinion on important matters concerning parties, like with whom to form coalition, who should be chief minister etc. Keeping defections in check ensures stability of governance and helps in keeping up with the mandate of people. Thus, to uphold this spirit, reforms within the parties are required apart from the legal solution. Must read: All about Whip Do you know? Disqualification vs Resignation A disqualified member cannot become a Minister without getting elected again, whereas one who resigns can be inducted into an alternative Cabinet without being a member.  Accepting a resignation is a simple function of being satisfied if it is voluntary, while disqualification is decided on evidence and inquiry.    Converting resignation into a disqualification matter is an attempt to deny a member’s right to quit his seat in the legislature before joining another party, even if the crossing-over is a politically expedient measure.  Role of Speaker  The Speaker already enjoys extraordinary powers under the Constitution.  In addition to immunity from judicial scrutiny for legislative matters, such as whether a Bill is a money bill, presiding officers get to decide whether a member has incurred disqualification under the anti-defection law.  Though the decision is subject to judicial review, many Speakers have evaded judicial scrutiny by merely not acting on disqualification matters.  The question whether the Speaker’s inaction can be challenged in court is pending before another Constitution Bench.  Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have instances of Speakers not acting on disqualification questions for years. Connecting the Dots: Discuss the concerns against anti-defection laws suggest the possible reforms that can be made to anti-defection law? Recent developments in Karnataka and Goa legislative assemblies prove that the political problem of defection can’t be addressed by the legal solution of the anti-defection law. Comment.   The anti-defection law and issuance of whips by political parties curtail the freedom of independence of mps. Critically analyse. What reasons would you attribute to the decline of parliamentary standards? Can you suggest some remedies?

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 58

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 58 Archives Q.1) Which of the following Conventions aims to conserve terrestrial, Marine and Avian migratory species? Rotterdam Convention Bonn Convention Ramsar Convention Washington Convention Q.2) The ‘Golden Triangle’ of South-East Asia refers to  The shallow seas near Straits of Malacca where high-density fishing is done  An area infested with insurgency, terrorism and trafficking  An area prone to maximum cyclone and Tsunami hits An extensive opium producing area  Q.3) Which of the following statement is INCORRECT about ‘Biosimilars’? Biosimilars are less costly imitations of drugs known as biologics Biosimiliar and Generic drugs are same and used interchangeably. Biosimilars can help cut drug costs Biologic drugs are made using living cells that treat disease, usually by genetically modifying cells Q.4) ‘Garole, Malpura, Patanwadi’ breed refers to - Cow Buffalo Sheep Goat Q.5) Logistics Performance Index is released by  World Economic Forum  United Nations Development Programme  World Trade Organisation World Bank  To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 19th Aug to 25th August – 2019

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 19th to 25th August – 2019 ARCHIVES GS-1 Relics found by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) in Maharastra’s Phupgaon (Topic: Ancient Indian History) The recent excavation carried out by Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) at Maharashtra’s Phupgaon has revealed evidence of an Iron Age settlement in the Vidarbha region.  The excavation at the site was taken up between December, 2018 and March, 2019. Location: The team of ASI took up an intensive survey in the region between Chandur Bazar to Dariyapur of Purna basin at Phupgaon, Amravati district of Maharashtra. The site is situated in the vast meander of the river Purna, a major tributary of Tapi, which used to be a perennial river, but at present is completely dried-up due to the dam construction in the upper stream. The site is situated about 20 m away from the river bed and its one-third portion has been subjected to frequent erosion during the heavy water current in the earlier times. Discoveries A total of 9 trenches were taken for excavations, which brought to light the house remains and other associated features like hearth, post-holes and artefacts. During the course of excavation, 4 complete circular structures were exposed. All were found encircled with post holes. These structures were found to be enclosed with a circular ditch like feature and postholes. Inside of these structure floor activity, storage bin platforms and hearths were noticed. The excavation also exposed antiquities like beads of agate-carnelian, jasper, quartz and agate were collected in large quantity. Iron, Copper objects have also been collected from all the trenches. Large quantity of graffiti marks had been observed on the potsherds. The river Purna, a major tributary of the river Tapi, has witnessed several archaeological sites on its either side of the banks. A number of cultural remains in the form of various antiquities and pottery have unraveled the nature of those settlements ranging from Paleolithic to late medieval period. The excavation is significant as it indicates the presence of sedentary (permanent) settlement, belonging to the Iron Age of Vidarbha.  The settlement comes under the category of a small village with evidence of a small agro-pastoral community with evidences of craftsmanship in the form of beads of agate-carnelian, jasper, quartz and also usage of other artefacts like hopscotch, wheel and barrel shaped beads.  The finding from Phupgaon indicates its contemporaneity with other Iron Age settlements of Vidarbha like Naikund, Mahurjhari, Bhagimori and Thakalkat. GS-2 Draft National Resource Efficiency Policy Released (Topic: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation) By: Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Natural resources form the backbone of any economic development. India, as one of the fastest growing economies with GDP at 2.6 trillion USD, has increased its material consumption to six times, from 1.18 billion tonnes (BT) in 1970 to 7 BT in 2015. The material consumption is expected to increase further to provide for an increasing population, rapid urbanization and growing aspirations. Enhancing resource efficiency and promoting the use of secondary raw materials has emerged as a strategy for ensuring that the potential trade-off between growth, resource constraints and environmental well-being can be minimized. The Draft National Resource Efficiency Policy (NREP) envisions a future with environmentally sustainable and equitable economic growth, resource security, healthy environment (air, water and land), and restored ecosystems with rich ecology and biodiversity. The Draft National Resource Efficiency Policy is guided by the principles of  (i) Reduction in primary resource consumption to ‘sustainable’ levels, in keeping with achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and staying within the planetary boundaries, (ii) Creation of higher value with less material through resource efficient and circular approaches,  (iii) Waste minimization,  (iv) Material security, and creation of employment opportunities and business models beneficial to the cause of environment protection and restoration. The Draft National Resource Efficiency Policy provides an overarching collaborative framework for resource efficiency across all sectors in the country, covering both biotic and abiotic resources and life cycle stages and aspires for cross-sectoral stakeholder partnerships for the cause of resource efficiency for sustainable development. Urgent need to bring in ‘Elimination of Discrimination against Persons Affected by Leprosy (EDPAL) Bill’ (Topic:  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) Issue: Even though the disease is now fully curable, it is disturbing to learn that there still exist 108 discriminatory laws against persons affected by leprosy including 3 Union and 105 State laws. National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) has achieved enormous success in leprosy control, particularly in the last four decades.  In addition to the routine activities, more than a dozen innovations were introduced from 2016 onwards in a phased manner to address the issues being faced by the programme. Leprosy Case Detection Campaign (LCDC) (specific for high endemic districts),  Focussed Leprosy Campaign (for hot spots i.e., rural and urban areas),  Special plan for case detection in hard to reach areas,  ASHA based Surveillance for Leprosy Suspects (ABSULS) have contributed to early casedetection Sparsh Leprosy Awareness Campaign (SLAC) is implemented to reduce stigma against persons affected by Leprosy in the community.  These innovations have given the much needed impetus to the programme. Moreover, leprosy has become fully curable by Multi–Drug Therapy (MDT). This therapy is available free of cost at all the Government health care facilities in the country.   A leprosy affected person after treatment does not transmit the disease agent. Hence, there exists no justification for the continued stigmatization of the persons affected by leprosy Indo-French Road map on Cyber security and Digital Technology (Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests) France and India intend to make digital technology a transformative factor in their societies, to foster economic growth, sustainable development and secure enhanced internet access which is essential to bridge digital divide. France and India thus advocate a vision of digital technologies that empowers citizens, reduces inequalities, and promotes sustainable development. International security and diplomatic effort: France and India affirm their commitment to an open, reliable, secure, stable and peaceful cyberspace. International law, and in particular the Charter of the United Nations, is applicable and is essential to maintaining peace and stability and promoting an open, secure, peaceful and accessible Digital environment. Governance, sovereignty, and technological regulation: France and India recognise that the rapid development of digital technology and its use must be accompanied by a cooperative, coherent, determined and resolute action by the international community, aimed at guaranteeing the sovereignty of States over the Digital Infrastructure located within the territory of the States as well as the protection of online human rights and freedom of expression. Cooperation in the field of cybersecurity: Recognizing the need to strengthen the security of Digital processes, products and services, France and India intend to share information on the legal and regulatory framework and best practices, including on the protection of Economic Information Infrastructure impacting National security, and on testing and certification of Digital products. In this context, France and India intend to work together on the risks associated with the deployment of 5G technologies and the technical solutions adopted to deal with them. Cooperation in the area of fight against cybercrime: France and India recognize that cybercrime is a transnational crimethat requires enhanced international cooperation to effectively bring cyber criminals to justice. As such, they plan to strengthen their cooperation in this area, with a particular view to facilitating sharing of information, evidence collection, the identification of offenders, particularly malware developers, hosters / hosting platform providers or broadcasters. Regulation of artificial intelligence: France and India recognized the need for developing and implementing AI policies/programs inthe context of citizen centric services, data sovereignty from legal, regulatory and cyber security perspectives. France and India are committed to fostering research and development in AI by sharing expertise and best practices. France and India affirm their wish to further expand and deepen this cooperation, in three main areas: High performance computing applied to artificial intelligence; Quantum calculation, in this respect they appreciate the creation of an Indo-French Center of Excellence in Quantum Calculation in Pune; Exascale calculation GS-3 Launch of SARAL – ‘State Rooftop Solar Attractiveness Index’ (Topic: Environment; Solar energy) To achieve our rooftop solar targets, it is important to develop an ecosystem that ensures information symmetry, access to financing and clear market signals. Thus, the MNRE has developed the State Rooftop Solar Attractiveness Index–SARAL that evaluates Indian states based on their attractiveness for rooftop development. SARAL is the first of its kind index to provide a comprehensive overview of state-level measures adopted to facilitate rooftop solar deployment. It would incentivise rooftop solar by creating healthy competition among the States. Such an exercise is likely to create a more conducive environment for solar rooftop installations, encourage investment and lead to accelerated growth of the sector. SARAL has been designed collaboratively by the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), Shakti Sustainable Energy Foundation (SSEF), Associated Chambers of Commerce and Industry of India (ASSOCHAM) and Ernst & Young (EY). Captures five key aspects – Robustness of policy framework Implementation environment Investment climate Consumer experience Business ecosystem Note: The State of Karnataka has been placed at the first rank in the Index that evaluates Indian states based on their attractiveness for rooftop development. Telangana, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh have got 2nd, 3rd and 4th rank respectively. Proposal to declare ocean energy as Renewable Energy approved (Topic:  Environment Renewable energy - Ocean energy) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has clarified to all the stakeholders that energy produced using various forms of ocean energy such as tidal, wave, ocean thermal energy conversion etc. shall be considered as Renewable Energy and shall be eligible for meeting the non-solar Renewable Purchase Obligations (RPO). Ocean Energy: Oceans cover 70 percent of the earth’s surface and represent an enormous amount of energy in the form of wave, tidal, marine current and thermal gradient. A variety of different technologies are currently under development throughout the world to harness this energy in all its forms. Deployment is currently limited but the sector has the potential to grow, fuelling economic growth, reduction of carbon footprint and creating jobs not only along the coasts but also inland along its supply chains. As Government of India steps up its effort to reach the objectives to contemplate its Renewable Energy and climate change objectives post 2022, it is opportune to explore all possible avenues to stimulate innovation, create economic growth and new jobs as well as to reduce our carbon footprint. India has a long coastline with the estuaries and gulfs. MNRE looks over the horizon at development of new technology and considers the various options available to support its deployment. Most types of technologies are currently at pre-R&D / demonstration stage or the initial stage of commercialization. Basic R&D is being looked after by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (example: National Institute of Ocean Technology, Chennai). MNRE intends to support demonstration projects of proven technologies and as approved by expert committee constituted by MNRE. Objective: To accelerate and enhance support for the resource assessment and deployment of ocean energy in the country and to harness it for power generation and to overcome the barriers. The technology programme is open to public and private sectors to carry out projects in India.  Potential  Total identified potential of Tidal Energy is about 12455 MW, with potential locations identified at Khambat & Kutch regions, and large backwaters, where barrage technology could be used. The total theoretical potential of wave energy in India along the country’s coast is estimated to be about 40,000 MW – these are preliminary estimates. This energy is however less intensive than what is available in more northern and southern latitudes. OTEC has a theoretical potential of 180,000 MW in India subject to suitable technological evolution. Technology: Although currently under-utilised, Ocean energy is mostly exploited by just a few technologies: Wave, Tidal, Current Energy and Ocean Thermal Energy.  a) Tidal Energy: The tidal cycle occurs every 12 hours due to the gravitational force of the moon. The difference in water height from low tide and high tide is potential energy. Similar to traditional hydropower generated from dams, tidal water can be captured in a barrage across an estuary during high tide and forced through a hydro-turbine during low tide. The capital cost for tidal energy power plants is very high due to high civil construction and high power purchase tariff.  To capture sufficient power from the tidal energy potential, the height of high tide must be at least five meters (16 feet) greater than low tide. The Gulf of Cambay and the Gulf of Kutch in Gujarat on the west coast have the locations in the country where potential exists  b) Wave Energy: Wave energy is generated by the movement of a device either floating on the surface of the ocean or moored to the ocean floor. Many different techniques for converting wave energy to electric power have been studied. Wave conversion devices that float on the surface have joints hinged together that bend with the waves. This kinetic energy pumps fluid through turbines and creates electric power. Stationary wave energy conversion devices use pressure fluctuations produced in long tubes from the waves swelling up and down. This bobbing motion drives a turbine when critical pressure is reached. Other stationary platforms capture water from waves on their platforms. This water is allowed to runoff through narrow pipes that flow through a typical hydraulic turbine. c) Current Energy: Marine current is ocean water moving in one direction. This ocean current is known as the Gulf Stream. Tides also create currents that flow in two directions. Kinetic energy can be captured from the Gulf Stream and other tidal currents with submerged turbines that are very similar in appearance to miniature wind turbines. Similar to wind turbines, the movement of the marine current moves the rotor blades to generate electric power.  d) Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC): Ocean thermal energy conversion, or OTEC, uses ocean temperature differences from the surface to depths lower than 1,000 meters, to extract energy. A temperature difference of only 20°C can yield usable energy. Research focuses on two types of OTEC technologies to extract thermal energy and convert it to electric power: closed cycle and open cycle. In the closed cycle method, a working fluid, such as ammonia, is pumped through a heat exchanger and vaporized. This vaporized steam runs a turbine. The cold water found at the depths of the ocean condenses the vapor back to a fluid where it returns to the heat exchanger. In the open cycle system, the warm surface water is pressurized in a vacuum chamber and converted to steam to run the turbine. The steam is then condensed using cold ocean water from lower depths. Prelims oriented news P V Sindhu won Gold at BWF World Championship The second moon mission of India, the Chandrayaan-2 has been precisely inserted in defined orbit. First World Youth Conference on Kindness Organised by the UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development and Ministry of Human Resource Development on the theme 'Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam: Gandhi for the Contemporary World: Celebrating the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’ at the VigyanBhavan in New Delhi.  Inspired by Mahatma Gandhi, the conference aimed to provide global youth and policymakers an innovative, engaging and inspiring platform to come together and strive to discover ground-breaking pathways to achieve the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Review: Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana More than 39 lakh people have availed cashless treatment worth over Rs. 6,100 crore for serious illnesses since the launch of AB-PMJAY. This has resulted in savings of Rs. 12,000 crore to the beneficiary families. Government launched the newly designed grievance management portal of AB-PMJAY, an online system to help members of the general public to register their grievances and get assisted support. Launch of NISHTHA: National Mission to improve Learning Outcomes at the Elementary level- NISHTHA, National Initiative for School Heads and Teachers Holistic Advancement To build capacities of 42 Lakh government teachers across the country – to motivate and equip teachers to encourage and foster critical thinking in students Teachers will get awareness and develop their skills on various aspects related to Learning Outcomes, Competency Based Learning and Testing, Learner-centered Pedagogy, School Safety and Security, Personal-social qualities, Inclusive Education, ICT in teaching-learning including Artificial Intelligence, Health and well-being including yoga, Initiatives in School Education including library, eco club, youth club, kitchen garden, School Leadership qualities, Environmental Concerns, Pre-school, Pre-vocational Education and School Based Assessment in a joyful learning manner. The prominent features of this integrated programme are activity based modules including educational games and quizzes, Social-emotional learning, motivational interactions, team building, preparation for school based assessment, in-built continuous feedback mechanism, online monitoring and support system, training need and impact analysis (Pre and Post training). This mega capacity building programme has been integrated with technology to ensure smooth facilitation, availability of digital content and technology enabled teaching methods to support the teachers. In order to ensure sustainable impact on classroom transactions, this integrated training programme is embedded with post training interventions including provision of mentoring. Sabka Vishwas-Legacy Dispute Resolution Scheme, 2019 Target Audience: To be availed by large number of taxpayers for closing their pending disputes relating to legacy Service Tax and Central Excise cases The two main components of the Scheme are dispute resolution and amnesty.  The dispute resolution component is aimed at liquidating the legacy cases of Central Excise and Service Taxthat are subsumed in GST and are pending in litigation at various forums. The amnesty component of the Scheme offers an opportunity to the taxpayers to pay the outstanding tax and be free of any other consequence under the law.  The most attractive aspect of the Scheme is that it provides substantial relief in the tax dues for all categories of cases as well as full waiver of interest, fine, penalty, In all these cases, there would be no other liability of interest, fine or penalty.  There is also a complete amnesty from prosecution. Competition Commission of India (CCI)  CCI is a statutory body of the Government of India responsible for enforcing The Competition Act, 2002 throughout India and to prevent activities that have an appreciable adverse effect on competition in India. Goal of CCI is to create and sustain fair competition in the economy that will provide a ‘level playing field’ to the producers and make the markets work for the welfare of the consumers. Competition Act – The Act prohibits anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominant position by enterprises and regulates combinations (acquisition, acquiring of control and M&A), which causes or likely to cause an appreciable adverse effect on competition within India. For a robust law – Read here

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Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 27th August 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 27th August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) India-G7 Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II –International relations  In News The 45th edition of G7 Summit is currently being held in France. The host country typically gets to invite dignitaries from outside the G7 to attend the Summit PM Modi was invited to attend the G7 Summit as a special guest of French President Emmanuel Macron 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. The Group was initially formed as an effort by the US and its allies to discuss economic issues, which in the late 1970s included battling a global oil crisis Since then, the scope of G7 discussion has enlarged to include financial crises, economic changeover of ex-Soviet bloc nations, terrorism, arms control, and drug trafficking, among others. The G7 does not have a formal constitution or a fixed headquarters. The decisions taken by leaders during annual Summits are non-binding. The rise of India, China, and Brazil over the past few decades has reduced the G7’s relevance, whose share in global GDP has now fallen to around 40% Do You Know? 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 G20 is a larger group of countries, which also includes G7 members. The G20 was formed in 1999, in response to a felt need to bring more countries on board to address global economic concerns Apart from the G7 countries, the G20 comprises Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, and Turkey. India is slated to host a G20 summit in 2022. Cardiovascular disease burden (CVD) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II – Issues relating to Health In News Three-quarters of CVD-related deaths happen in lower-middle income countries, according to the WHO, which classifies India among such countries  In India, the leading CVD diseases are ischaemic heart disease and stroke, contributing 61.4 % and 24.9 % of total DALYs (Daily Adjusted Life Years) lost from CVDs The research study found that among Indian states, West Bengal, Odisha and Tripura have the highest burden whereas Mizoram, Sikkim and Delhi have the lowest burden of strokes in terms of crude DALY rates.  In the case of ischaemic heart disease, Punjab, Tamil Nadu and Haryana have the highest burden while Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya have the lowest https://images.indianexpress.com/2019/08/lanet.jpg https://images.indianexpress.com/2019/08/cvd.jpg Do You Know DALY = Disability Adjusted Life Year = the sum of years of potential life lost due to premature death, and the years of productive life lost due to disability.  DALYs are used to measure the combined quantity and quality of life of a population. One DALY can be thought of as one lost year of 'healthy' life.  The sum of these DALYs across the population, or the burden of disease, can be thought of as a measurement of the gap between the current health status and an ideal health situation where the entire population lives to an advanced age, free of disease and disability - WHO Conservation of Otters Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains III – Environmental Conservation In News The Eighteenth Conference of the Parties (CoP18) of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) was recently held in Geneva. Members at the Conference have voted to move the smooth-coated otter (Lutrogale perspicillata) from CITES Appendix II to CITES Appendix I, a species native to the Indian subcontinent and some other parts of Asia This is done as otters are considered to be facing a high risk of extinction and is detrimentally affected by international trade, as well as habitat loss. The other proposal that was passed was to include the Tokay gecko (Gekko gecko) in CITES Appendix II, as it faced threats from hunting and collection for use in traditional medicine. The CITES is as an international legally binding agreement aimed at ensuring “that international trade in specimens of wild animals and plants does not threaten their survival”. However, it does not take the place of national laws. The text of the Convention was agreed in Washington, DC, in 1973 and entered into force in 1975. Thus, the convention is sometimes referred to as the Washington Convention. CITES Appendix: Appendix I includes species “threatened with extinction”. Trade in specimens of these species is permitted only in exceptional circumstances. Appendix II provides a lower level of protection. Appendix III contains species that are protected in at least one country, which has asked other CITES Parties for assistance in controlling the trade. http://www.walkthroughindia.com/wildlife/top-4-rivers-to-spot-3-species-of-otters-in-india/ https://live.staticflickr.com/4183/34441427301_7c0659509b_b.jpg National Digital Library(NDL) Part of: GS Prelims and GS Mains II – e-governance In News Bangalore University plans to launch an e-library, where students and staff can download books available online through the university's library app The university has taken up this project under the National Digital Library of India initiative Human Resource Development Ministry under its National Mission on Education through Information and Communication Technology launched NDL in 2018 NDL is the Single Window Platform that collects and collates metadata from premier learning institutions in India and abroad, as well as other relevant sources.  NDL is a digital repository containing textbooks, articles, videos, audio books, lectures, simulations, fiction and all other kinds of learning media. Anybody can access the digital library anytime and anywhere absolutely free of cost and is a step towards “Padhe Bharat Badhe Bharat”. As of now, there are more than 3 crore digital resources available through NDL More than 50 lakh students have registered themselves in the National Digital Library with about 20 lakh active users. NDL has been integrated with UMANG App Do You Know? UMANG stands for Unified Mobile Application for New-age Governance developed by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and National e-Governance Division (NeGD) to drive Mobile Governance in India UMANG provides a single platform for all Indian Citizens to access pan India e-Gov services ranging from Central to State to Local Government bodies and other citizen centric services.  (MAINS FOCUS) INFRASTUCTURE SECTOR/AVIATION TOPIC: General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes Giving wings to better air connectivity Context: A cooperative federalism framework can provide the required impetus to the civil aviation sector Concern: Civil aviation is a Central subject and one that barely got significant attention from the States until recently.  It is evident from the fact that very few States in India have active civil aviation departments.  This is also due to the reason that States have had a passive role, invariably, having had to look up to the Central government for the development of airports and enhancing air connectivity.  UDAN: In the last four years, the situation has changed considerably. The cooperation of States is seen as a major factor in the growth of the civil aviation sector. The Regional Connectivity Scheme, Ude Deshka Aam Naagrik (UDAN), has become a game changer as this flagship programme has a built-in mechanism to develop stakes of State governments in the growth of the sector. Key policy interventions Thirty States and Union Territories have already signed memoranda of understanding with the Central government.  The policies of States and Centre are now being interlinked to make flying accessible and affordable. Some policy intervention suggestions to jump-start the aviation market: Firstly, For any airline in India, the cost of Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF) forms about 40% of the total operational cost.  Keeping petroleum products out of the purview of Goods and Services Tax (GST) may be a policy imperative for the State governments but this is a step that adversely impacts the expansion of air services to the States States have very high rates of value-added tax (VAT) on ATF — sometimes as high as 25% — which has dampened the growth trajectory of civil aviation Therefore, relief on ATF is a major incentive for airlines to augment their operations as the airline industry is capital-intensive and works on very thin profit margins.   UDAN has motivated State governments to reduce the VAT on ATF to 1% for the flights that are operated under this scheme.  Airports such as Jharsuguda (Odisha) and Kolhapur (Maharashtra) have successfully attracted airlines to connect these hitherto unconnected region Reducing VAT on ATF is the biggest lever States can operate, which will enable them in being an equal partner in steering sector policy. Secondly, The second area is in the development and management of airports There are many regional airports which can be developed by States on their own or in collaboration with the Airports Authority of India (AAI).  In this, there have been different models of public-private-partnership which can be leveraged to develop infrastructures. Innovative models can be explored to create viable ‘no-frill airports’. These functional airports can open up regions and change the way people travel.  India had about 70 airports since Independence until recently.  Under UDAN, the Union government, with the help of the States, has operationalised 24 unserved airports over the past two years; 100 more are to be developed in the next five years, which can only be achieved through the active collaboration between willing States and the Centre. Third, States and the Central government can play a crucial role in supporting airlines to develop air services in the remote regions. To reduce operational cost of airlines and airport operators, incentives from State governments have been sought:  some in the form of financial support such as VAT reduction;  sharing of viability gap funding with airlines, and  non-financial incentives such as providing security and fire services free of cost to airport operators.  Under the scheme, the Union government has declared concessions on excise duty on ATF and made budgetary allocations for airport development.  This unique scheme has been successful in encouraging airlines to operate on regional unconnected routes instead of trunk routes. Under UDAN, some success stories have motivated States to announce innovative approaches and policies in support of airlines. Further interventions to be needed: Considering the infrastructural constraints and difficult terrain, small aircraft operators need to be encouraged Areas which cannot be connected meaningfully by road or rail have to be linked by air States may converge their relevant schemes relating to tourism, health, and insurance for supporting air connectivity to supplement the objectives of regional connectivity. For this States need to create a conducive business environment to facilitate the strong aspirations of a burgeoning Indian middle class to fly at least once a year. It would boost ticket sales from the present level of eight crore domestic tickets. Developing airports, incentivising airlines and pooling resources of both the Union and State governments can accelerate the harmonised growth of the Indian civil aviation sector which would be equitable and inclusive. Ude Desh ka Aam Naagrik (UDAN) scheme Key pointers: The Civil Aviation Ministry launched Regional Connectivity Scheme UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) in 2017. UDAN is an innovative scheme to develop the regional aviation market. It is a market-based mechanism in which airlines bid for seat subsidies. This first-of-its-kind scheme globally will create affordable yet economically viable and profitable flights on regional routes so that flying becomes affordable to the common man even in small towns. Connecting the dots: Critically examine the significance of regional connectivity for a developing economy like India. Also discuss the features of the UDAN scheme launched by the government. INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS TOPIC: General Studies 2: 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. Talking trade with the EU Concerns: As the economy begins to suffer from the U.S.-China trade war, it is imperative for India to pursue a free trade agreement (FTA) with the European Union (EU). Last month, negotiators from both sides met in Brussels, for more talks about talks, but time is now running out for New Delhi. Moving beyond the U.S. and China, this is the right time for India to engage the EU as an indispensable democratic partner to craft a favourable geo-economic order A series of economic and geo-strategic factors make the need for an economic deal with the EU more urgent. First, India risks being left behind amidst a collapsing global trade architecture, rising protectionism and a new emphasis on bilateral FTAs. India is the only major power lacking an FTA with any of its top trade partners, including the EU, the U.S., China and Gulf economies. This situation is not tenable as most trade is now driven either by FTAs or global value chains. The EU’s revived focus on FTAs could only exacerbate this risk for India. In June, Brussels concluded a trade deal with Vietnam and a historic FTA with the Mercorsur countries in South America.  India, in the meantime, is hanging on to its Most Favoured Nation (MFN) status. Its status under the EU’s Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) will face rising competition from Pakistan or Sri Lanka, who enjoy GSP+ benefits. Stuck in a ‘grey zone’ Without preferential FTA tariffs or GSP+ status, India will struggle to keep exports competitive for Europe, its largest trade partner where 20% of its exports land up. Positive aspects of India include: India’s talks with the EU have been advancing slowly but steadily From agriculture to intellectual property, the EU and India have quietly been exchanging and aligning views.  New areas like e-commerce have registered significant convergence because India’s position on data privacy is not that different from the EU’s. As with the EU-Japan deal, India may wish to proceed at two speeds: it could delay discussions about free flow of data for a few years and freeze differences on the tax moratorium issue or data localisation, even while committing to liberalise in other areas. Second, beyond mere economic cost-benefit analysis, India must also approach an EU FTA from a geo-strategic perspective. With Mr. Trump’s hostile spotlight focussing on India, and lingering concerns about the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, New Delhi must realise the long-term strategic benefits of a trade deal with Europe. Democratic regulations EU negotiators are now more willing to make concessions on labour or environmental regulations, which used to be insurmountable obstacles.  The collapse of the Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership and concerns about excessive economic reliance on China have propelled the EU to become a little more pragmatic, which New Delhi should leverage before it’s too late. The EU also offers India a unique regulatory model that balances growth, privacy and standards.  India’s governance framework shares the European norms of democratic transparency and multi-stakeholder participation on a variety of new technological domains, from regulating artificial intelligence to 5G networks. New Delhi must see this as a strategic premium that is not accounted for in a strict cost-benefit economic analysis. Key notes: A Free Trade Agreement or FTA is an agreement between two or more countries where the countries agree on certain obligations that affect trade in goods and services, and protections for investors and intellectual property rights, among other topics. FTAs normally cover trade in goods (such as agricultural or industrial products) or trade in services (such as banking, construction, trading etc.). FTAs can also cover other areas such as intellectual property rights (IPRs), investment, government procurement and competition policy, etc. India has bilateral agreements with ASEAN, European Union, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand. Article 1 of General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) which enunciates the most favoured nation (MFN) principle of WTO states that "any advantage, favour, privilege, or immunity granted by any contracting party to any product originating in or destined for any other country shall be accorded immediately and unconditionally to the like product originating in or destined for the territories of  all other contracting parties." This MFN principle is permitted for forming FTAs under some specific conditions as per the provisions of the WTO Agreements. Proposed India-EU FTA: India-European Union (EU) FTA, officially known as the Broad-Based Trade and Investment Agreement is being negotiated for quite a while. However, in 2013, there was a breakdown in talks in between the two sides and the talks have been stalled ever since. The European Union wants India to reduce the import duties on alcohol and automobiles and India wants the EU to declare India as a ‘data secure’  country. Conclusion: In regard with the FTAs, India should be very careful in the clauses of negotiation. Despite having a strong services sector in a select few categories, ( IT, ITES, Healthcare and Education etc.) the agricultural sector as well as the industrial sector, especially the Micro, Small and Medium Scale Enterprises are still not as mature and strong as compared to the other countries with which India is negotiating FTAs. Connecting the dots: What are free trade agreements? Discuss the benefits of free trade agreements. Critically analyse the free trade agreements signed by India? (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) UMANG app by Government of India intends to achieve which of the following objectives? Monitoring of Villages and Households Electrification  To Curb illegal coal mining like rat hole mining, pilferage To promote mobile governance in India None of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements about CITES is as an international legally binding agreement aimed at restricting the trade in endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora It replaces the National domestic laws It is also sometimes referred to as Washington Convention as it was agreed in Washington, DC, in 1973. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 only Q.3) India is a member of which of the following International organisations? G7 Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) Select the correct answer from codes given below. 1,2 and 3 only 2 only 1,3 and 4 only 1,2 and 4 only Must Read: Earth’s burning lungs The Hindu A judicial overreach into matters of regulation The Hindu Asian cats, Western monkeys Indian express The Last Window Indian express

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