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Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 51

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 51 Archives Q.1) ‘Cher Chera festival’ is associated with Chhattisgarh Odisha Jharkhand Telangana Q.2) Which of the following are recognised ‘Sikh takhts’? Akal Takht (Amritsar) Takht Hazur Sahib (Nanded) Takht Patna Sahib (Bihar) Select the correct code: 1 only 1 and 2 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 Q.3) Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) is often in news in the context of India and USA Israel Japan France Q.4) Consider the following statements about Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas (IBAs) It was developed and sites are identified by BirdLife International IBAs are places of international significance for the conservation of birds and other biodiversity A site can be listed as an IBA only if it holds a population of a species categorized by the IUCN Red List as Critically Endangered Select the correct statements 1 Only 1 and 2 1, 2 and 3 2 and 3 Q.5) Consider the following statements about Nuclear Command Authority (NCA) Executive Council is chaired by the Cabinet Secretary Political Council is chaired by the Prime Minister The directives of the NCA are to be operationalised by the Strategic Forces Command under the control of a Commander-in-Chief of the rank of Air Marshal Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 None of the above To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Creative Thinking – Inspirational Educative Articles

Creative Thinking: One of the greatest tools we all possess as human beings is our ability to think. At the same time since everybody thinks, it does offer any unique advantage unless one is willing to learn, unlearn, relearn and alter the process of thinking. In this sense, thinking is not power, thinking about thinking in the right way is! Is there any right way of thinking? If there is, then what is it? Certainly there can be right and wrong way of thinking. To give a simple example, positive thinking is good and negative thinking is obviously bad. There is no arguing about the benefits of positive thinking, we all know it. So we know that there are different types of thinking, some good and some bad. There is positive and negative thinking, there is thinking focused on the past and thinking focused on the future, there is thinking about your strengths and thinking about your weakness, there is thinking about success and worrying about failure. Above all this one of the most advanced way of thinking is ‘thinking creatively’ Firstly, what is creativity? Creativity is the very process of creation. Creativity is not any isolated department of life. Creativity is the energy through which existence creates. It is an effortless form of creation. What is the fundamental difference between nature creating and a human being creating? The fundamental difference is in the effort involved. While nature creates without any effort man has to put in a lot of effort to create. This is mainly because we have forgotten that we are also a part of nature and the creative force that is flowing through us is the same force through which even nature is creating. When we forget that we are the source of our creativity, everything we create becomes an effort. Now back to creative thinking. Creative thinking is an approach to life where you truly believe that your thinking is a part of existence and it is simply happening through you. In this understanding, you don’t create thoughts rather existence creates it for you. All you do is acknowledge a thought. Seriously, think about this for a minute. Is it really possible for you to create a thought? We never create a thought. A thought happens and we simply acknowledge it. Throughout the day we have countless thoughts but we only remember a handful of them. Creative thinking is knowing fully that your thoughts are a part of the existential process and there is absolutely no effort involved in generating them. When you let go of the effort of thinking, it becomes a lot easier to let go of thoughts that are not useful for your progress. The single biggest problem with us is, just because we think that we have created a thought and it belongs to us, we find it very difficult to let go of it. When we acknowledge the fact that thoughts simple happen, just like the movement of clouds, it becomes a lot easier to pick and choose thoughts that are beneficial for us. This way of thinking without thinking is creative thinking! “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Meditation Farm and IASBABA.”

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 17th August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Reservations in Chhattisgarh Part of: GS Mains II – Social issues Chhattisgarh government announced an increase in reservations for OBCs and Scheduled Castes in state government jobs and education It will increase the quota for SCs by 1 % while nearly doubling reservation for OBCs from 14 % to 27 %. The quota for STs remains at 32 %. Once in effect, Chhattisgarh will have a total of 72 % reservation (32 % for STs, 13 % for SCs and 27 % to OBCs), the highest in the country and far above the 50 % cap on quotas mandated by the Supreme Court The state government is still considering the 10 % centre mandated EWS quota for the general category. if implemented, it would take the reservation to 82 %. According to government, this has been done to keep it in line with the population demographic in the state. The percentage of OBCs is close to 47 %, who along with STs form the major chunk of the population. Space Commerce Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS III – Science and Technology In News NewSpace India Ltd launched a formal search for industry consortia which can regularly manufacture and deliver entire PSLV satellite launch vehicles for its parent organisation, ISRO NSIL is looking for experienced companies or consortia to produce the launchers end to end: their job starts from component procuring, electronics, to large stages and finally the assembly, integration and testing (AIT) of the vehicles NSIL is a public sector space business company formed in March 2019 to promote Indian space commerce.  NSIL will initially outsource five PSLVs — Indian rockets that can lift light payloads to ‘low earth orbits’ some 600 km in space.  The four-stage PSLV is needed to place both Indian remote sensing satellites and small satellites of foreign customers to space. ISRO currently sources separate rocket parts from around 500 big and small vendors and does the AIT itself at its facilities in Kerala, Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh. For almost a decade, ISRO has been planning to hand the production over to public and private industries and itself focus on its core job of space R&D. National Essential Diagnostics List (NEDL)  Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS II – Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health In News India has got its first NEDL finalised by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) It aims to bridge the regulatory system’s gap that do not cover all the medical devices and in-vitro diagnostic device (IVD) as the current system is equipped to manage only few notified devices. India has become the first country to compile such a list that would provide guidance to the government for deciding the kind of diagnostic tests that different healthcare facilities in villages and remote areas require. NEDL would enable improved health care services delivery through evidence-based care, improved patient outcomes and reduction in out-of-pocket expenditure NEDL would also lead to effective utilisation of public health facilities; effective assessment of disease burden, disease trends, surveillance, and outbreak identification; and address antimicrobial resistance crisis too. NEDL builds upon the Free Diagnostics Service Initiative and other diagnostics initiatives of the Health Ministry to provide an expanded basket of tests at Public health system Key challenges anticipated during implementation of the National EDL include — Adoption by States and harmonisation with local standard diagnostic protocols and treatment guidelines, provision of requisite infrastructure, processes and human resources. Do You know? WHO released first edition of essential diagnostics list (EDL) in May 2018 which acts a reference point for development of national EDL To improve the availability of accessible and quality diagnostics in public health facilities, Union Health Ministry under the aegis of National Health Mission (NHM) launched the Free Diagnostics Service Initiative (FDI) in July 2015 Under this initiative, the NHM is supporting all states to provide essential diagnostics – laboratory and radiology at their public health facilities, free of cost Fertility rate Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS I – Social Issues In News During his Independence Day speech, Prime Minister Narendra Modi underlined challenges posed by population growth in the country Total Fertility Rate (TFR), defined as the number of children born to a woman until the end of her child-bearing age For four successive years (2013-2016) the TFR had stagnated at 2.3. The latest data estimates (2017) show the TFR dropping to 2.2. This figure is only marginally higher than the fertility rate (2.1) required for replacement of the existing population. TFR is calculated from data of the Sample Registration System (SRS) undertaken by the Office of the Registrar General of India. Even the states that have a higher TFR — Uttar Pradesh (3.0), Bihar (3.2), MP (2.7), Rajasthan (2.6), Assam (2.3), Chhattisgarh (2.4) and Jharkhand (2.5) — have been witnessing a declining trend in fertility rates. Two more states, Gujarat and Haryana, recorded a TFR of 2.2, which is above the replacement rate but is equal to the national average. Taken together, these nine major states account for 52 per cent of the 2011 population. This means that in the states barring these nine, and accounting for almost half the population, the replacement level is either 2.1 or has gone below it.  States with a lower TFR include Kerala (1.7), Tamil Nadu (1.6), Karnataka (1.7), Maharashtra (1.7), Andhra Pradesh (1.6), Telangana (1.7), West Bengal (1.6), Jammu and Kashmir (1.6) and Odisha (1.9). Do You Know? The SRS also looks at other indicators such as crude birth rate, general fertility rate, age specific/marital fertility rate, gross reproduction rate along with sex ratio at birth.  While Census figures provide the total population every decade, the regular SRS estimates provide dynamic trends underlying the population growth. (MAINS FOCUS) WATER MANAGEMENT/CONSERVATION TOPIC: General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. General Studies 3: Conservation, Environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment. A jan andolan for water Context: Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the Jal Jeevan Mission, which plans to supply water to all households by 2024.  Concern: For many years, the central and state governments have been making efforts to increase access to safe and adequate drinking water. While states like Sikkim and Gujarat have managed to achieve high levels of HWS, a relatively low percentage of rural Indian households have access to this service The strategy so far to increase access to HWS faced obstacles, including not paying enough attention to sustaining or recharging groundwater, the primary source, and treating service delivery primarily as an engineering solution, without adequate involvement of the users. Challenges and solutions: At policy level: The institutional landscape for water at both the Centre and state government has been somewhat fragmented, with several ministries in Delhi and departments in states dealing with different aspects of water management, with overlapping roles and responsibilities. Solution: The creation of the Jal Shakti Mantralaya in the Government of India to integrate the management of India’s water resources and supply of drinking water is a landmark step in diagnosing and addressing the problem. At implementation level: The inadequate attention to taking concrete measures to sustain the source of the water, in most cases groundwater.  Instead of taking simple and local measures, like creating rainwater harvesting structures and point recharge structures in the vicinity of borewells, the emphasis has been more on maximising the pumping of water and distributing it through pipes.  This led to many of the systems either shutting down or functioning sub optimally due to the groundwater source having dried up.  Solution: The proposed Jal Jeevan Mission will make source sustainability measures mandatory prior to pumping and distributing water to households. Traditional approach to service delivery: The provision of drinking water was viewed primarily as an engineering solution, with schemes being planned and executed by the public health and engineering departments. water is an ideal sector for the applicability of the principle of subsidiarity — the idea that a central authority should have a subsidiary function, performing only those tasks which cannot be performed effectively at a more immediate or local level. Solution: The Jal Jeevan Mission’s first preference will be to have single village ground water-based schemes, wherever sufficient quantity and good quality of groundwater exists.  These schemes would be managed by the community itself through the setting up of a village water and sanitation committee, a sub-committee of the gram panchayat. It is, therefore, planned to include a mandatory provision under the Jal Jeevan Mission for the effective channeling and treatment of household waste water (known as grey water), through appropriate and low cost drainage and treatment systems.  On the lines of the Swachh Bharat Mission, extensive information, education and communication will be needed to create a jan andolan for water management.  The ongoing Jal Shakti Abhiyan will help in creating awareness about the importance of integrating source sustainability and water reuse with the provision of household water supply Key notes: Jal Shakti Ministry The new ministry has been formed by merging the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation and Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation. All water related works will be merged under one ministry. The new ministry will encompass issues ranging from providing clean drinking water, international and inter-states water disputes, to the Namami Gange project aimed at cleaning Gang and its tributaries, and sub tributaries. Conclusion: This integrated approach to decentralised, community managed, and sustainable water management is the backbone of the government’s plan to ensure that every household gets the benefits of water supply. The Jal Jeevan Mission will be a major step towards improving our people’s ease of living and meeting their aspirations of a New India. Connecting the dots: India’s traditional water harvesting techniques provide a sustainable water management alternative. Do you agree? Critically examine Why has water become a stressed resource in many parts of the world? Analyse. Many parts of the country are facing severe water crisis and drought conditions. There are many traditional water harvesting and conservation practices in various parts of India which can be employed locally to fight the ongoing crisis. Can you identify few such practices? Also mention the states where they are more prevalant. HEALTH/YOGA TOPIC: General Studies 2: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation How yoga can boost exports Context: Linking to the wellness carnival of the International Yoga Day (IDY) on June 21, many yoga studios are opening up both in India and globally. Statistics: As estimated by the ‘2016 Yoga in America Study’, the US continues to lead with the rise in number of yoga practitioners from 20.4 million in 2012 to 36.7 million in 2016.  Over the same period, the spending by such professionals on yoga classes, clothing, equipment and accessories has increased by $6.1 billion ($16.8 billion during 2016).  Conversely, Asia is leading in wellness trips, where China and India are the top countries, adding over 12 million and 17 million trips, respectively, during 2015-17, as per the Global Wellness Economy Monitor 2018.  Till December 2016, India had trained and certified 799 yoga professionals as reported by the ministry of AYUSH. India is the second-largest exporter of Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) products with permission of 100% FDI therein.  But the government is yet to fully utilise the trade potential in yoga industry, which exists in both services and manufacturing. Growing trends in Yoga Trends suggest a growth in cross-border movement of yoga professionals (teachers, practitioners, trainers, instructors), which can be referred to as the ‘software’ part of yoga. Another growing segment is trade in yoga accessories, dealing with the ‘hardware’ part of yoga (technically considered to be part of sports goods sector). With growing need for yoga services mainly post-IDY, the demand of and spending on accessories has risen. Broadly, yoga accessories are the tools that support yoga, such as mats, bricks, blocks, clothes and other equipment.  Several foreign brands, too, have introduced special yoga mats, and various manufactures are shifting to recyclable, renewable or eco-friendly sources for making such equipment. Where India is placed in terms of trade of yoga services and equipment, as compared to the US, Europe and East Asia? The government has been opening centres in such regions to promote cultural exchange on yoga, music, dance, etc. For example,  India and Japan committed to liberalisation, under the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in 2011, across all services modes to cover provisions relating to movements of teachers and contractual service providers in the field of yoga, among others.  In July 2018, under India-Korea CEPA, both the countries agreed on certain terms related to export of yoga from India—Indian trainers/teachers/instructors to be sent to Korea for imparting lessons or providing guidance to Korean hospitals, etc, and instructors as well as Indian yoga institutes allowed to set up centres in South Korea . In its foreign trade policy Statement 2017 Mid-Term Review, the government emphasised on using branding/marketing campaign to facilitate exports “of commodities and services in which India has traditional strengths, such as handicrafts and yoga.” Conclusion: The challenge, though, remains for researchers and policymakers to verify the accuracy of data and information available on private websites with official government sources. Nevertheless, investment in promoting yoga exports and value addition under Make in India can support growth of concerned manufacturers and give the country a required export boost. Connecting the dots: In the Indian medicinal system, Yoga is the most popular and widely accepted form. Can you describe the benefits of Yoga? Also discuss it’s branding potential for 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) Consider the following statements about New Space India Ltd (NSIL) NSIL is a public sector space business company formed in 1992 to promote Indian space commerce.  Its parent organisation is ISRO NSIL is planning to outsource production of PSLVs to private players Which of the statement(s) given above is / are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements about National Essential Diagnostic List (NEDL) India has become the first country to compile such a list  NEDL will lead to effective assessment of disease burden, disease trend and helps address antimicrobial resistance crisis too. 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 Total Fertility Rate (TFR), defined as the number of children born to a woman until the end of her child-bearing age The latest data show that TFR in India has dropped from 2.3 to 2.2. The replacement fertility rate for India is 1.9. 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 Must Read: India gets its first national essential diagnostics list The Hindu ‘No First Use’ nuclear doctrine is not rigid The Hindu Popular anxiety Live Mint The challenges for one nation, one ration card Financial express

RSTV Video

RSTV IAS UPSC – Motor Vehicle Amendment Bill

Motor Vehicle Amendment Bill Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. In News: The Bill seeks to amend the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988 to provide for road safety.  The Act provides for grant of licenses and permits related to motor vehicles, standards for motor vehicles, and penalties for violation of these provisions. Background: The past two decades have witnessed a huge rise in road accidents, fatalities and other safety concerns in India. A government committee estimated that road accidents rose by about 50% between 2005 and 2015. However, it was only in 2014 that the National Urban Transport Policy (NUTP) committee proposed a new legislation, incorporating all modes of transportation, multi-modal integration, road safety, etc. Following that, the Road Transport and Safety Bill was drafted in 2014. Finally, it was redrafted with the Motor Vehicles Amendment Bill in 2019. The bill suggests a new National Transportation Policy, which may replace the existing National Urban Transport Policy, 2014. Compensation for road accident victims:  The central government will develop a scheme for cashless treatment of road accident victims during golden hour.  The Bill defines golden hour as the time period of up to one hour following a traumatic injury, during which the likelihood of preventing death through prompt medical care is the highest.   The central government may also make a scheme for providing interim relief to claimants seeking compensation under third party insurance.   The Bill increases the minimum compensation for hit and run cases as follows: (i) in case of death, from Rs 25,000 to two lakh rupees, and (ii) in case of grievous injury, from Rs 12,500 to Rs 50,000.  Compulsory insurance: The Bill requires the central government to constitute a Motor Vehicle Accident Fund, to provide compulsory insurance cover to all road users in India.  It will be utilised for: Treatment of persons injured in road accidents as per the golden hour scheme Compensation to representatives of a person who died in a hit and run accident Compensation to a person grievously hurt in a hit and run accident Compensation to any other persons as prescribed by the central government.   This Fund will be credited through:  payment of a nature notified by the central government,  a grant or loan made by the central government balance of the Solatium Fund (existing fund under the Act to provide compensation for hit and run accidents) any other source as prescribed the central government Good Samaritans: The Bill defines a good Samaritan as a person who renders emergency medical or non-medical assistance to a victim at the scene of an accident.  The assistance must have been (i) in good faith, (ii) voluntary, and (iii) without the expectation of any reward. Such a person will not be liable for any civil or criminal action for any injury to or death of an accident victim, caused due to their negligence in providing assistance to the victim.  Recall of vehicles: The Bill allows the central government to order for recall of motor vehicles if a defect in the vehicle may cause damage to the environment, or the driver, or other road users.  The manufacturer of the recalled vehicle will be required to: (i) reimburse the buyers for the full cost of the vehicle, or (ii) replace the defective vehicle with another vehicle with similar or better specifications.   National Transportation Policy: The central government may develop a National Transportation Policy, in consultation with state governments.  The Policy will Establish a planning framework for road transport Develop a framework for grant of permits Specify priorities for the transport system, among other things.  Road Safety Board: The Bill provides for a National Road Safety Board, to be created by the central government through a notification. The Board will advise the central and state governments on all aspects of road safety and traffic management including: Standards of motor vehicles Registration and licensing of vehicles Standards for road safety Promotion of new vehicle technology Offences and penalties: The Bill increases penalties for several offences under the Act.   For example, the maximum penalty for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs has been increased from Rs 2,000 to Rs 10,000.   If a vehicle manufacturer fails to comply with motor vehicle standards, the penalty will be a fine of up to Rs 100 crore, or imprisonment of up to one year, or both.   If a contractor fails to comply with road design standards, the penalty will be a fine of up to one lakh rupees.   The central government may increase fines mentioned under the Act every year by up to 10%.  Taxi aggregators: The Bill defines aggregators as digital intermediaries or market places which can be used by passengers to connect with a driver for transportation purposes (taxi services).  These aggregators will be issued licenses by state. Further, they must comply with the Information Technology Act, 2000. Conclusion: The government needs to ensure better ways to implement and enforce the new rules and regulations to its fullest. There is no point of making a bill that requires huge amount of risks in enforcement, if the government fails to make it practical.

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Chief of Defence Staff Part of: GS Prelims  PM Narendra Modi announced that government has decided to establish the post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDF) for the three services -- the Indian Army, the Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force. CDS is a post that will act as the single-point advisor to the Government of India. CDS will be in a position to advise on matters related to all the three services -- Army, Navy and Air Force -- thus making India's armed forces integrated. CDS will be a 'first among equals', a fourth four-star officer who will be senior to the three other service chiefs The post is aimed at ensuring better coordination between the three services. The intention is to "reconcile possible differences" in service-specific opinions to enable the government to arrive at considered military decisions. The institution of a CDS will also foster inter-services jointness in terms of budgeting, equipment purchases, training, joint doctrines and planning of military operations- necessary for strategizing a robust and cost-efficient national defence policy. Do You know? The recommendation for creating the post of CDS was first made after the 1999 Kargil War. A group of ministers that was formed in 2001 to explore necessary reforms required to improve India's national security had also favoured creating the post of CDS In 2012, the Naresh Chandra Task Force recommended that post of a permanent chairman of the Chiefs of Staff Committee (CoSC) should be created.  The CoSC comprises chiefs of the Indian Army, Indian Navy and the Indian Air Force. The senior-most among them would act as the chairman. Tax Administration Part of: Mains GS-II - Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. In News All notices and orders of Income Tax Department issued on or after the 1st of October, 2019 shall carry a computer-generated Document Identification Number (DIN) It was found that majority of IT notices/orders have been issued manually, without maintaining a proper audit trail of such communication The initiative of DIN is intended to maintain proper audit trail of all such communication from IT department Under exceptional cases where manual communication is required to be issued, the reason for issue of manual communication without DIN has to be specified alongwith the date of obtaining written approval of the Chief Commissioner / Director General of Income-Tax. This is step taken by CBDT will bring greater transparency in the functioning of the tax-administration and improvement in service delivery Competition Law Review Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS II - Governance In News The Government constituted a Competition Law Review Committee on 1st October, 2018 to review the existing Competition law framework and make recommendations to further strengthen the framework to inter alia meet new economy challenges. The Committee was chaired by Shri Injeti Srinivas  The committee has submitted its report and some of its key recommendation are: Introduction of a ‘Green Channel’ for combination notifications to enable fast-paced regulatory approvals for majority of mergers and acquisitions having not much adverse effects on competition. Introducing a dedicated bench in NCLAT for hearing appeals under the Competition Act Introduction of express provisions to identify ‘hub and spoke’ agreements as well as agreements that do not fit within typical horizontal or vertical anti-competitive structures to cover agreements related to business structures and models synonymous with new age markets. CCI to issue guidelines on imposition of penalty to ensure more transparency and faster decision making which will encourage compliance by businesses. Strengthening the governance structure of CCI with the introduction of a Governing Board to oversee advocacy and quasi-legislative functions, leaving adjudicatory functions to the Whole-time Members. Merging DG’s Office with CCI as an ‘Investigation Division’ as it aids CCI in discharging an inquisitorial rather than adversarial mandate. However, functional autonomy must be protected. Opening of CCI offices at regional level to carry out non-adjudicatory functions such as research, advocacy etc. and interaction with State Governments and State regulators. Do You know? Competition Act, 2002 provided for the establishment of a Commission to prevent practices having adverse effect on competition, to promote and sustain competition in markets, to protect the interests of consumers and to ensure freedom of trade carried on by other participants in markets, in India. The 2002 act replaces “The Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Act, 1969” Microplastics Part of: Mains GS III- Environmental Conservation In News Tiny pieces of plastic (shreds less than 5mm in length ) was found in Arctic snow and the Alps The research predicts that microplastic particles are transported tremendous distances through the atmosphere. These particles are later washed out of the air by precipitation, particularly snow. The team’s hypothesis for airborne transportation builds on past research conducted on pollen, where experts confirmed that pollen from near the equator ends up in the Arctic. Similarly, dust from the Sahara desert can cover thousands of kilometres and end up in northeast Euro. The study raises concern as to whether and how much plastic we’re inhaling. (MAINS FOCUS) DEFENCE/SECURITY TOPIC:  General studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. General studies 3: Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate. Office of the Chief of Defence Staff  Context: In his Independence Day address Thursday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff to provide “effective leadership at the top level” to the three wings of the armed forces, and to help improve coordination among them. What is the office of the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)? The CDS is a high military office that oversees and coordinates the working of the three Services, and offers seamless tri-service views and single-point advice to the Executive (in India’s case, to the Prime Minister) on long-term defence planning and management, including manpower, equipment and strategy, and above all, “joints manship” in operations. In most democracies, the CDS is seen as being above inter-Service rivalries and the immediate operational preoccupations of the individual military chiefs. The role of the CDS becomes critical in times of conflict. Most countries with advanced militaries have such a post, albeit with varying degrees of power and authority. The United States Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), for example, is extremely powerful, with a legislated mandate and sharply delineated powers. He is the most senior military officer and military adviser to the President, and his remit extends to the National Security Council, the Homeland Security Council, and the Defence Secretary. Why had India not appointed a CDS until now? India has had a feeble equivalent known as the Chairman, Chiefs of Staff Committee (CoSC); but this is a toothless office, given the manner in which it is structured.  The senior most among the three Service Chiefs is appointed to head the CoSC, an office that lapses with the incumbent’s retirement. The current Chairman CoSC is Air Chief Marshal Birender Singh Dhanoa, who succeeded the former Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral Sunil Lanba on May 31.  When ACM Dhanoa retires at the end of September 2019, he would have served as Chairman CoSC for a mere four months. In 2015, then Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar had described the CoSC arrangement as “unsatisfactory”, and its Chairman as a “figurehead”. The post did not further tri-service integration, resulting in inefficiency and an expensive duplication of assets The CoSC system is a leftover from the colonial era, with only minor changes being carried out over the years. Apprehensions in the political class about a powerful military leader, along with inter-Services bickering, have long worked to dis incentivise the upgrade of the post. Background: The first proposal for a CDS came from the 2000 Kargil Review Committee (KRC), which called for a reorganisation of the “entire gamut of national security management and apex decision-making and structure and interface between the Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces Headquarters”.  The Group of Ministers Task Force that studied the KRC Report and recommendations proposed to the Cabinet Committee on Security that a CDS, who would be five-star officer, be created. In preparation for the post, the government created the Integrated Defence Staff (IDS) in late 2002, which was to eventually serve as the CDS’s Secretariat. However, over the past 17 years, this has remained yet another nebulous department within the military establishment. But what happened to the proposal? No consensus emerged among the Services, with the IAF especially opposed to such a move. The Congress, then in opposition, was against the idea of concentrating too much military power in the CDS’s post.  The Ministry of Defence (MoD) too, opposed it subtly for the same reasons, and because it could disrupt civil-military ties in the latter’s favour. The smaller Air Force and Navy fear that the CDS would be from the Army, by far the largest Service. The IAF has long argued that unlike the United States and other western militaries, the Indian Services are not an expeditionary force, for which a CDS is a necessity.  The appointment of a CDS would also lead to theatre commands, another aspect that the IAF opposes, fearing a diminution of its operational role. In 2011, more than a decade after the KRC Report, the UPA government, led by the Congress, which had opposed the CDS proposal when in opposition, set up the Naresh Chandra Committee on defence and security.  The 14-member Committee, comprising retired Service Chiefs and other defence experts, suggested a watered-down version of the CDS proposal, in which the Chairman CoSC in the rank of a four-star officer would have a fixed tenure of two years.  He would have significantly more authority and powers than the Chairman CoSC, and would be a CDS in all but name. What is the case for having a CDS? Although the KRC did not directly recommend a CDS — that came from the GoM — it underlined the need for more coordination among the three Services, which was poor in the initial weeks of the Kargil conflict. The KRC Report pointed out that India is the only major democracy where the Armed Forces Headquarters is outside the apex governmental structure. It observed that Service Chiefs devote most of their time to their operational roles, “often resulting in negative results”. Long-term defence planning suffers as day-to-day priorities dominate.  Also, the Prime Minister and Defence Minister do not have the benefit of the views and expertise of military commanders, in order to ensure that higher level defence management decisions are more consensual and broad based. The CDS is also seen as being vital to the creation of “theatre commands”, integrating tri-service assets and personnel like in the US military. India has 17 Service commands at different locations and duplicating assets. In 2016, China integrated its military and other police and paramilitaries into five theatres from the earlier seven area commands, each with its own inclusive headquarters, one of which has responsibility for the Indian border. In contrast, India’s border with China is split between the Eastern, Western, and Northern Commands. What are the arguments against? Theoretically, the appointment of a CDS is long overdue, but there appears to be no clear blueprint for the office to ensure its effectiveness. India’s political establishment is seen as being largely ignorant of, or at best indifferent towards, security matters, and hence incapable of ensuring that a CDS works. Militaries by nature tend to resist transformation. In the US, the 1986 Goldwater-Nichols Act elevated the Chairman from first among equals to the “principal military advisor” to the President and the Secretary of Defence. In the Indian context, critics fear, the absence of foresight and understanding might end up making the CDS just another case of “jobs for the boys”. Who at present advises India’s Prime Minister on military matters? In effect it is the National Security Adviser. This has been especially so after the Defence Planning Committee was created in 2018, with NSA Ajit Doval as its chairman, and the foreign, defence, and expenditure secretaries, and the three Service Chiefs as members. Connecting the dots: To what extent do you think India needs a chief of defence staff at the apex level to take the responsibility of decision making under critical and necessary conditions. Differentiate between defence forces, paramilitary forces and central armed police forces. Discuss the Pros and Cons for the creation of the post of Chief of Defence Staff? HEALTH TOPIC: General studies 2: Governance | Issues relating to development & management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources Measles Context: India ranked 4th and, according to WHO, has around 2.3 million children who remain unvaccinated for measles. Concern: Globally, 20 million children did not receive measles vaccination in 2018. India had the highest incidence rate—76.4 per million population—for measles amongst children under the age of one between July 2018-June 2019. However, the overall number of children having the disease fell to 24,076 (January-June 2019) from 69,391 in 2018. Spread of Measles and Rubella in India According to latest Global Measles and Rubella Update, India had 56,399 confirmed measles cases and 1,066 confirmed rubella cases in 2018. As per WHO, measles is a leading cause of death in children, with one-third (around 56,000 in 2011) of all measles deaths worldwide happening in India. Rubella causes birth defects, such as irreversible deafness and blindness in nearly 40 thousand children in India every year. At least 220 million children from 30 states and union territories have already been vaccinated under the nationwide campaign that started in 2017. Key notes: The disease is commonly known as German measles (or three-day measles) and is symptomatically similar to measles. It can have devastating consequences if a pregnant mother is infected with it and the foetus may be born with incurable congenital anomalies. Symptoms of the infection can include cataracts and deafness. It can also affect the heart and the brain. The congenital rubella infection is believed to affect approximately 25,000 children born in India every year. Measles vaccine is currently provided under Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). However, rubella vaccine will be a new addition to it. What is Measles? Measles is a deadly disease and one of the important causes of death in children. It is highly contagious and spreads through coughing and sneezing of an infected person. It can make a child vulnerable to life threatening complications such as diarrhoea, pneumonia and brain infection.  What is Rubella? Rubella is generally a mild infection, but has serious consequences if infection occurs in pregnant women, causing CRS, which is a cause of public health concern. CRS is characterized by congenital anomalies in the foetus and newborns affecting the eyes (cataract, glaucoma), ears (hearing loss), brain (mental retardation, microcephaly) and heart defects, causing a huge socio-economic burden on the families in particular and society in general.  Recent issues: Delhi High Court put on hold the govt plan for a measles rubella vaccination campaign in schools across the capital, saying the decision did not have the consent of parents. The court’s order introduced a dimension to vaccination — the question of consent — that had not been adequately dealt with earlier. Court’s order said that ‘measles vaccination cannot be administered “forcibly” and without the consent of parents,’ it introduced a dimension to vaccination — the question of consent — that had not been adequately dealt with earlier. Different views on consent Parents: It is settled principle that choice of an individual, even in cases of life-saving medical treatment, is an inextricable part of dignity which ought to be protected. Government: Consent in routine immunisation is implied because it is the parents or members of the family who bring the child to the hospital or healthcare centre. For public good and for a vaccine that is tried and tested, there is ample evidence on safety and efficacy and something which is already a part of the universal immunisation programme, written consent should not be essential. Schools were consciously chosen, rather than health centres or hospitals, because nowhere else can such large numbers of children in the relevant age group be targeted. Global practice: Parental consent should be obtained prior to vaccination. This is the standard practice around the world. Although, World Health Organization recognises oral, written, and implied consent for vaccination, but countries are encouraged to adopt procedures that ensure that parents have been informed and agreed to the vaccination Why India ranks 4th in terms of measles outbreak? Vaccination rates must rise at a large scale, especially, in conflict ridden and poor areas—the worst-hit by plummeting vaccination rates The migration from these regions to other countries, the problem of missing vaccination could truly become universal Poor healthcare infrastructure and awareness The ‘anti-vaxx’ propaganda is emerging as the biggest obstacle. Concrete steps to negate and curb the spread of such propaganda also need to be taken. Connecting the dots: The reported cases and deaths due to the measles are on the rise in comparison with previous years’ records. Discuss the reasons behind it. Also elaborate on what preventive steps should be taken by the government. (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 Competition Law Review Committee constituted in October 2018 The Committee was chaired by Bimal Jalan The committee proposes introducing a dedicated bench in NCLAT for hearing appeals under the Competition Act The committee also proposes opening of CCI offices in every state to carry out non-adjudicatory functions such as research, advocacy etc. and interaction with State Governments and State regulators. Which of the statement(s) given above is / are incorrect? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Document Identification Number It is an initiative of GST Council  It will bring greater transparency in the functioning of the tax-administration and improvement in service delivery 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 Tiny pieces of plastic (shreds less than 5mm in length) are found in Arctic snow The presence of microplastics in such places suggests that they are being carried around the planet in atmospheric winds, and that we’re breathing them in.  Which of the statement(s) given above is / are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ: Micro plastics in Arctic snow point to widespread air contamination  The Hindu Lessons after the great deluge  The Hindu Why WTO needs an interim arbitration body Financial Express Lessons after the great deluge The Hindu

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 50

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 50 Archives Q.1) ‘Operation Golden Victory’ is associated with Yemen Djibouti Sudan Venezuela Q.2) Yemen borders which of the following countries? Saudi Arabia Oman United Arab Emirates Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.3) ‘Dakshina Bharat Hindi Prachar Sabha’ was established by Mahatma Gnadhi Sardar Vallabhai Patel Jawaharlal Nehru Lokmanya Tilak Q.4) ‘Nalbana Bird Sanctuary’ is located near Kolleru Lake Dal Lake Chilika Lake Nal Sarovar Q.5) ‘Lambahraun lava field’ was in news recently. Where is it located? Iceland Chile Japan New Zealand To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

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Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th August 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Swachh Survekshan Grameen Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-II - Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. In News Government launched the 'Swachh Survekshan Grameen 2019', which will be three times bigger in scale than the previous edition of the rural sanitation survey. It's not just a survey but an opportunity to encourage behavioural change and take sanitation to the secondary level, beyond the concept of ODF villages In the first edition in 2018, the survey covered over 6,000 villages across the country. This year the survey aims to cover 18,000 sample villages — approximately 30 per rural district — and take feedback from over 2.5 crore villagers.  The effort is to look beyond toilets and to kick off the Open Defecation Free Plus (ODF+) phase — focussing on solid and liquid waste management The ODF-Plus programme has four verticals -- biodegradable waste management, plastic waste management, greywater (household waste water) management and faecal sludge management. For Swachh Survekshan Grameen 2019, Citizen feedback will account for 35% of the ranking of districts.  Another 30% weightage is being given to direct observations by surveyors from third party Ipsos, who will look at the prevalence of plastic litter and water-logging as well as the availability and usage of toilets.  The remaining 35% will be drawn from service-level progress measuring the final activities of the original Swachh Bharat mission. Do You know? Ever since the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan was launched on Gandhi Jayanti in 2014, its main focus has been on eliminating open defecation by constructing toilets and promoting their usage through widespread behaviour change programmes.  With the October 2, 2019 deadline looming near, and the original goal is almost achieved and the mission is moving on to its next phase (ODF+) Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN). Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS III – Issues in Indian Federalism In News A joint committee of Naga civil society groups has warned the Nagaland government against changing the cut-off date for including people in the RIIN The Nagaland government had, through a notification on June 29, 2019, decided to undertake the exercise to update the RIIN with December 1, 1963, as the cut-off date for inclusion of people in the register. RIIN is a master list of all indigenous inhabitants of the State of Nagaland with the aim of preventing fake indigenous inhabitants’ certificates. Based on detailed survey, it will have records of indigenous residents from rural and urban areas The process will be done as part of the online system of Inner Line Permit (ILP), which is already in force in Nagaland. This provisional list will then be collated and published on the government websites by September 11, 2019 Unique Identity: All indigenous inhabitants of Nagaland would be issued a barcoded indigenous inhabitant certificate Do You know? Nagaland was carved out of Assam as a State on December 1, 1963.  The State government had in April 1977 issued a notification that laid down the criteria for issuing indigenous inhabitant certificates to the residents when the State was formed Inner Line Permit (ILP) is an official travel document required by Indian citizens residing outside certain “protected” states while entering them.  ILP’s origin dates back to the Bengal Eastern Frontier Regulations, 1873, which protected the British Crown’s interest in tea, oil and elephant trade. It prohibited “British subjects” or Indians from entering into these protected areas.  After Independence, in 1950, the word “British subjects” was replaced by Citizens of India and the focus of the ban on free movement was explained as a bid to protect tribal cultures in north-eastern India. India’s water scarcity challenge Part of: Mains GS III- Environmental Conservation In News India, the world’s largest groundwater user, is seeing levels declining across the country with farmers in Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan facing the prospect of having no groundwater left for irrigation by 2025. More than 90% of the rice-wheat areas in north-west India are irrigated using groundwater. Groundwater, the source of 40% of India’s water needs, is depleting at an unsustainable rate, according to Niti Aayog, India accounts for 12% of global groundwater extraction, pumping some 230 billion cubic metres each year. At this rate, by 2030, nearly 60% of the aquifers will be in a critical state. Consecutive years of weak monsoons, massive deforestation, poor rainwater harvesting and pollution of rivers and lakes have led the country to depend on groundwater. https://www.graphicnews.com/en/pages/39416/ENVIRONMENT_India_groundwater_stress Paddy stubble burning Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III – Environment In News Burning of paddy crop residue, one of the major causes of air pollution, declined by 41% last year over 2016-level in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Delhi-NCR with the help of a ₹1,151 crore central scheme. 23 million tonnes of rice residue were being burnt in rice-wheat cropping system (around 4.1 million ha) in this region to clear the field for conventional wheat sowing because of the narrow window (about 10-20 days) between rice harvesting and wheat sowing. Crop residue burning in north-west India contributes to air pollution, health hazards, disruption of transportation, school closures and soil degradation. To tackle this issue, government launched Central Sector Scheme - ‘Promotion of Agricultural Mechanization for In-Situ Management of Crop Residue in the State of Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi’ The scheme involved  Distribution of in-situ crop residue management machinery to the farmers on subsidy Establishment of Custom Hiring Centres (CHCs) of in-situ crop residue management machinery Undertaking Information, Education and Communication (IEC) activities for creating awareness among farmer  ICAR is implementing the scheme through 60 Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) of Punjab (22), Haryana (14), Delhi (1) and UP (23). More than 4500 villages in Punjab and Haryana were declared as Zero Stubble Burning Villages during 2018 as not a single crop burning incident was reported from these villages during the year. In addition to the above Scheme, separate funds are being allocated to the States for crop residue management under Sub-Mission on Agriculture Mechanization by the Department of Agriculture Cooperation and Farmers Welfare (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) HEALTH TOPIC: General studies 2 and 3 Public Health issues Science and technology: medical research Notifiable disease  Context: A month after Union Health Minister Dr HarshVardhan asked the Delhi government to make malaria and dengue notifiable diseases, the South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) has initiated the work to notify malaria in the capital. What is a Notifiable disease? A Notifiable disease is any disease that is required by law to be reported to government authorities. The collation of information allows the authorities to monitor the disease, and provides early warning of possible outbreaks. The World Health Organization’s International Health Regulations, 1969 require disease reporting to the WHO in order to help with its global surveillance and advisory role. Making a disease legally notifiable by doctors and health professionals allows for intervention to control the spread of highly infectious diseases.  Registered medical practitioners need to notify such diseases in a proper form within three days, or notify verbally via phone within 24 hours depending on the urgency of the situation. Advantages: This means every government hospital, private hospital, laboratories, and clinics will have to report cases of the disease to the government. The process helps the government keep track and formulate a plan for elimination and control. In less infectious conditions, it improves information about the burden and distribution of disease. The Centre has notified several diseases such as cholera, diphtheria, encephalitis, leprosy, meningitis, pertussis (whooping cough), plague, tuberculosis, AIDS, hepatitis, measles, yellow fever, malaria dengue, etc. The onus of notifying any disease and the implementation lies with the state government. Any failure to report a notifiable disease is a criminal offence and the state government can take necessary actions against defaulters. Key notes: According to Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) report titled “India: Health of the Nation’s States”, contribution of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) to total death in the Country was 61.8% in 2016, as compared to 37.9% in 1990. Some examples of common NCDs, i.e. diabetes, hypertension and cancers (Oral, Breast and Cervical cancer) are on the rise in India. Risk factors for NCDs inter alia include ageing, unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high cholesterol and overweight Also In the States of Kerala, Goa and Tamil Nadu, due to epidemiological transition, fewer deaths are recorded for communicable, maternal, neonatal and nutritional diseases, thereby raising the share of NCDs in total deaths Epidemiologic Transition The epidemiologic transition is that process by which the pattern of mortality and disease is transformed from one of high mortality among infants and children to one of degenerative and man-made diseases (such as those attributed to smoking) affecting principally the elderly. Though public health is a State subject, Central Government supplements the efforts of the State Governments.  For example: National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke (NPCDCS) is being implemented under the National Health Mission (NHM) The objectives of the programme include health promotion activities and opportunistic screening for common Non-Communicable Diseases (NCDs) including cancer Key components of population-based screening include community-based risk assessment, screening, referral, and follow up of all individuals of 30 years and above for common NCDs The initiative will help in early diagnosis and will generate awareness on risk factors of NCDs. Citing growing occurrence of cancer in India, the Union government sought to enhance the facilities for tertiary care of cancer. The Central Government is implementing Strengthening of Tertiary Care Cancer facilities scheme to support setting up of State Cancer Institutes (SCI) and Tertiary Care Centres (TCCC) in different parts of the country. Oncology in its various aspects has a focus in case of new AIIMS and many upgraded institutions under Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY). Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) Deendayal outlets have been opened at 159 Institutions/Hospitals with an objective to make available Cancer and Cardiovascular Diseases drugs and implants at discounted prices to the patients. Jan Aushadhi stores are set up by the Department of Pharmaceuticals to provide generic medicines at affordable prices. Conclusion: There is a greater need to tailoring strategies not just State by State but in some cases district by district to end the disease. It is also high time that a collective demand for timely provision of amenities is made at the community level and a sense of shared responsibility by the citizenry to ensure that the gains from government’s efforts to reduce the incidence of vector-borne diseases bear fruit. Connecting the dots: Diseases like Dengue and Chikungunya claim many lives every year. The panic generated and the scales of response there on give these diseases the essential characteristics of a disaster. Discuss. Also examine the areas that require immediate attention to address such medical disasters. RIVER/POLLUTION TOPIC: General Studies 3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Legal rights to water bodies Context: Giving legal rights to water bodies a great leap forward  There are many more than seven rivers in India.Since there is no proper definition of a river, it is impossible to answer this question. One way to list is in terms of river basins, so that the main river and its tributaries are both included. For Himalayan Rivers, one will then list Indus basin, Ganga basin, Brahmaputra basin, Barak basin and so on. Similarly, in the south, one will list basins of rivers flowing east (Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri, Mahanadi) and those flowing west (Narmada, Tapti). This still leaves some loose ends, minor rivers along the coast and rivers that don’t drain into oceans. Depending on what is included, there can be more than 100 river basins and more than 600 rivers in the listing. Rivers now have legal rights. Background: In a way, it started with some rivers in Victoria. Then, in 2017, we had the Whanganui river in New Zealand and Ganga and Yamuna.  Because of news reports, most people know what the Uttarakhand High Court said in March 2017, though there is now a stay because of an appeal before the Supreme Court.  All the Hindus have deep Astha in rivers Ganga and Yamuna, and they collectively connect with these rivers Accordingly, while exercising the parens patrie jurisdiction, the Rivers Ganga and Yamuna, all their tributaries, streams, every natural water flowing with flow continuously or intermittently of these rivers, are declared as juristic/legal persons/living entities having the status of a legal person with all corresponding rights, duties and liabilities of a living person in order to preserve and conserve river Ganga and Yamuna The Director NAMAMI Gange, the Chief Secretary of the State of Uttarakhand and the Advocate General of the State of Uttarakhand are hereby declared persons in loco parentis as the human face to protect, conserve and preserve Rivers Ganga and Yamuna and their tributaries.  These Officers are bound to uphold the status of Rivers Ganges and Yamuna and also to promote the health and well-being of these rivers.” Ganga and Yamuna obtained legal rights, but as minors. They needed guardians. Granting legal rights to rivers (and water bodies) opens up a new area of environmental jurisprudence. Why did Ganga and Yamuna need legal rights? The core issue is pollution.  Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) brings out reports on water quality in our rivers. Strictly speaking, these are measures of water quality along stretches of rivers. There is actually a hierarchy of pollution, based on levels of biochemical oxygen demand (BOD). One can legitimately argue BOD is at best a partial indicator. T There are other measures of a river’s well-being. If BOD values exceed 8 milligrams per litre, the river will be regarded as severely polluted. Between Wazirabad and Okhla, Yamuna has a BOD level of 32, 55 and 70, at three different places. Between Kala Amb and Narayan Garh, Markanda river in Haryana has a BOD value of 590.  Similarly, there are also lists of most polluted rivers in India and these lists will typically include Ganga, Yamuna, Sabarmati, Oshiwara and Damodar. More often than not, these lists are based on CPCB findings and therefore mean stretches of rivers, not entire rivers.  Somewhat more rarely, there are also lists of cleanest rivers in the world and cleanest rivers in India. For instance, stretches of Chambal, Narmada, Brahmaputra, Umngot, Teesta and Tuipui are remarkably clean. What is the reason of Ill-being of rivers? Ill-being of rivers is primarily due to raw sewage and industrial waste. Neither problem is new. In Britain, a Royal Commission on Sewage Disposal was established in 1898. Between 1901 and 1915, this produced ten reports Kashi Ganga Prasadini Sabha, established by concerned citizens of Varanasi in 1886. The Sabha’s objective was to introduce drainage and clean up the river.  The Royal Commission and Namami Gange are primarily about what government does. (Namami Gange does have a public awareness component.) The Sabha was about what citizens did and in addition to the government bit, the citizen bit is also needed. Connecting the dots: Why haven’t the efforts to clean the polluted rivers in India succeeded so far? Examine by taking the case study of the river Ganga? Do you think according the status of ‘living entity’ to rivers would help in their rejuvenation? Critically analyse. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Inner Line Permit is operational in which of the following states Mizoram Nagaland Manipur Arunachal Pradesh Tripura Select the correct answer from the codes given below 1,2 and 3 only 1,2,4 and 5 only 1,2 and 4 only 1,2,3,4 and 5 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Register of Indigenous Inhabitants of Nagaland (RIIN) RIIN is a master list of all indigenous inhabitants of the State of Nagaland with the aim of preventing fake indigenous inhabitants’ certificates. The list was published when the state of Nagaland was carved out of Assam in 1963  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 Groundwater is the source of 40% of India’s water needs  More than 90% of the rice-wheat areas in north-west India are irrigated using groundwater. Consecutive years of weak monsoons, massive deforestation, poor rainwater harvesting and pollution of rivers and lakes have led the country to depend on groundwater. 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 Must Read: Whether we will survive ought to be our foremost concern Live Mint A reality check on India’s renewable energy capacity The Hindu How does negative rate policy work? Indian Express Let’s draw lines in water The Indian express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 49

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 49 Archives Q.1) ‘Golden Butterfly’ which was in news recently is a variety of Tea Coffee Cotton Rice Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘AKRUTI’ It enables and empowers villages with eco-sustainable Science & Technology based work plan for Techno-economic growth. It is an initiative by the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC) Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements  Operation Thunderbird is code-name of INTERPOL’s multinational and multi-species enforcement operation for wildlife protection Operation Save Kurma is a specific operation on Mangroves Select the correct statement 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Sigur Plateau’ was recently in news. Where is it located? South Karnataka Southern Slope of Vindhyas Vidarbha region of Maharashtra Nilgiris Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Raibenshe’  It is a genre of Indian folk martial dance performed by male only It is primarily performed in Arunachal Pradesh Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Perseids Meteor shower Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-I - Geography In News The Perseid meteors appears as streaks of light in the sky.  These start around every year around late July and will peak on August 12 night to August 13.  The meteor shower appears as the Earth passes through the cosmic dust left by the comet Swift-Tuttle. The Perseids are widely sought after by astronomers and stargazers because most years at its peak, one can see 60 to 100 meteors in an hour from a dark place.  They are visible in the Northern Hemisphere and can be viewed in skies all across.  As NASA explains, Meteor showers take their name from the location of the radiant. The Perseid radiant is in the constellation Perseus.  For example, the Geminid meteor shower, which is observed each December, is named for a radiant in the onstellation Gemini. Repo-linked deposit and lending rates Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS II- Indian Economy In News Public sectors banks(PSB) SBI, Syndicate Bank, Bank of India, Union Bank and Allahabad Bank have announced to link their deposits and loans to the repo rate. The RBI has been looking at various ways in which banks can be made to transmit repo rate cuts to depositors and borrowers. Given that banks source only about 1 per cent of their funds from RBI’s repo window and the bulk of deposits from the public, PSBs used to complain that they cannot slash their lending rates unless their deposit rates also reduced. Curbing inflation or stimulating growth by raising or lowering the repo rate is the key objective of monetary policy. However, hikes or reductions in the repo rate by India’s Monetary Policy Committee have had only a marginal impact on the economy because of the partial transmission of these cuts by banks. This action of PSBs linking savings account interest rates to the repo rate partly solves this problem of transmission of rate cuts by RBI Using an external benchmark like the repo rate makes the process more transparent to retail borrowers and depositors. On the flip side, both savings bank account and loan rates will swing with the repo rate making it volatile. Concern: SBI, for instance, applies it only to depositors who have a balance of over Rs 1 lakh in their savings accounts. This make up less than 10% of its deposit base and is bound to lead to partial transmission. Do You know? Repo Rate is the rate at which the RBI lends money to commercial banks Decrease in deposit rate will discourage people to deposit their savings in bank deposits and instead adopt informal channels like gold.  Decrease in lending rate will boost credit uptake and increase the investment & production activity in an economy. Regulatory sandbox Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS III- Economy In News The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) issued the final framework for regulatory sandbox A regulatory sandbox usually refers to live testing of new products or services in a controlled/test regulatory environment for which regulators may permit certain regulatory relaxations for the limited purpose of the testing. The objective of the sandbox was to foster responsible innovation in financial services, promote efficiency and bring benefit to consumers. RBI will launch the sandbox for entities that meet the criteria of minimum net worth of ₹25 lakh as per their latest audited balance sheet The entity should either be a company incorporated and registered in the country or banks licensed to operate in India. While money transfer services, digital know-your customer, financial inclusion and cybersecurity products are included, crypto currency, credit registry and credit information have been left out. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS-III – Indian Economy In News Centre had recently amended the Company Law to make CSR spend mandatory for companies. It also stipulated that non-compliance could be treated as a criminal offence and attract penalties. A High-Level Committee CSR constituted in Sep 2018 under the chairmanship of Injeti Srinivas to review the existing framework on CSR has submitted its report Some of its recommendations include CSR spends should be eligible for tax deduction under the income tax law. Currently, income tax law does not allow CSR spends as tax deductible amount. Allowing the carry-forward of unspent balance for a period of 3-5 years Aligning Schedule 7 of the Companies Act (which outlines the kinds of activities that qualify as CSR) with the UN Sustainable Development Goals. Companies having CSR-prescribed amount below ₹50 lakh may be exempted from constituting a CSR Committee Violation of CSR compliance may be made a civil offence and shifted to the penalty regime. Introducing impact assessment studies for CSR obligations of ₹5 crore Registration of implementation agencies on the Ministry of Corporate Affairs portal RENEWABLE ENERGY TOPIC: General Studies 3 Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation Infrastructure: Energy Indigenization of technology and developing new technology. Solar energy-KUSUM scheme Concern: The World Bank predicts that around 60% of the aquifers in India will be in a critical state by 2032 if we do not change the current practice of overexploitation of groundwater for irrigation. Large-scale deployment of solar pumps, without a comprehensive plan to monitor and control water usage, is likely to make this prediction a reality Renewable energy: The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) recently rolled out a massive solar-pump programme called the PM-KUSUM scheme. The scheme has a target to set up 25,750 megawatts (MW) solar capacity by 2022 to power irrigation pumps, with central financial support of Rs 34,422 crore. It includes installation of 1.75 million off-grid and 1 million on-grid solar pumps as well as 10,000 MW of solar capacity in rural areas through decentralised ground-mounted plants of 0.5 MW to 2 MW capacity. These plants will be used to solarise the rural grid. This rapid transition is possible because the scheme makes buying pumps extremely affordable for medium-sized and large farmers. With 30% subsidy from the central and state government each and provision to take bank loans for 30% of the cost, farmers have to sell out only 10% of the cost to buy solar pumps Positives of the scheme: It increases farmers’ income in the short term.  As solar power is cheaper than diesel, in states like Bihar, where farmers largely use diesel pumps, off-grid solar pumps will reduce the cost of irrigation significantly. This will allow farmers to grow more crops, even the water-intensive ones, at a lower cost of cultivation, thereby increasing income. In Punjab, where electric pumps dominate and the power subsidy to the agricultural sector is about `7000 crore annually, solarisation of agriculture feeders will reduce the subsidy burden significantly.  Farmers’ income will also be augmented by selling electricity from solar plants on to the discoms. The most important part of the solar pump is that the solar cycle matches the irrigation cycle. Farmers will get assured irrigation for at least six hours during day time, and they don’t have to remain awake at night to irrigate their farms (grid supply is more assured at night in most states). Negatives of the Scheme: Over exploitation of groundwater: a high possibility of overuse of these pumps, leading to groundwater depletion.  The KUSUM scheme fails to promote efficient irrigation and incorporate explicit and strict measures against groundwater exploitation.  The scheme only mentions exploring the possibility of its convergence with state-level schemes for promoting the micro-irrigation systems and energy-efficient pumps instead of mandating the same In the case of solarisation of agriculture feeders, the implications can be even more disastrous. Currently, states like Punjab and Haryana bear a huge burden of agriculture power subsidy.  With solar power predicted to be at least 30% cheaper, the subsidy burden is likely to reduce significantly. This means that the state governments have even less incentive to increase agriculture tariff to conserve water when the grid is solarised. Thus, the gross overexploitation of groundwater is likely to continue. Few points to consider improving the design of the scheme: One, the central government could push massive irrigation reforms in states through this scheme. For instance, KUSUM should only be extended to states willing to take strong measures to improve irrigation efficiency and control exploitation of groundwater. Two, it must mandate micro-irrigation for solar pump beneficiaries. Groundwater extraction must be closely monitored and strict mandates on pump size and bore-well depth must be set. Supporting low water-intensive crops in water-scare regions, too, is crucial. Three, deployment of off-grid solar pumps must be restricted to areas where the grid has not reached and groundwater is abundant. Even in groundwater-abundant areas, off-grid solar pumps must be used for rural electrification or developed into community-based water sale models to maximise utilisation and reduce water wastage. Four, solarisation of rural feeders should be the preferred solution, given that it is most economical and provides additional income to farmers. However, this should be accompanied by a gradual increase in electricity tariffs, which is crucial to control groundwater exploitation and reduce the burden of agricultural subsidy. Last, given the central role of discoms, electricity regulators need to ensure that solar pumps and decentralised plants are allowed to evacuate power to the grids easily and payments are made to the farmers regularly. Conclusion: Renewable energy is clean energy, but it doesn’t always lead to green solutions. For clean energy to become green, solutions must be comprehensively designed in an integrated manner. Connecting the dots: What is the essence of ‘energy conservation’ in today’s time period? Examine the role of energy in one’s life with respect to sustainability of that source Discuss the challenges in implementing KUSUM scheme and suggest the measures for the same. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) ECONOMY TOPIC: General studies 3 Economy and development; Intellectual Property Rights Context: Geographical indication can boost agriculture exports Concern:  The key concern is the value of agri-imports has surged by four percentage points, touching an all-time high of $25 billion in FY18, which can possibly surpass the value of agri-exports, thus making India a net agri-importer.  Geographical indication: An initiative India should take is branding agri-products through steps such as geographical indication (GI), especially for organically-produced commodities that would realise higher returns in global markets.  Establishing effective agricultural brands can help farmers gain a competitive advantage in ‘buyer-driven’ global markets.  Some globally recognised brands (California almonds, Chilean wines, Swiss chocolates) enjoy a high stature in their respective product groups. Branded items usually fetch better price and can lead to brand loyalty, and are seen as a move towards a strong customer base. Branding adds value by differentiating the product and also because of the consumer perception that such products are of superior quality than unbranded ones What is Geographical Indication? Geographical Indication is a genre of Intellectual Property. GI tag is an insignia on products having a unique geographical origin and evolution over centuries with regards to its special quality or reputation attributes. The status to the products marks its authenticity and ensures that registered authorised users are allowed to use the popular product name. These could be naturally grown crops like Assam Chilies or manufactured products like Jaipur Pottery. GI tags are given on the basis of the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. The registration of GI is valid for 10 years after which it needs to be renewed. Violation of GI tags is punishable offence under law.  What are the benefits of a GI Tag? Legal protection to the products Prevents unauthorised use of a GI tag products by others Helps consumers to get quality products of desired traits Promotes economic prosperity of producers of GI tag goods by enhancing their demand in national and international markets. The GI tag allows the producers of the objects to claim a premium for their products.Thus, it is financially beneficial to them. The GI tag can also pique interest of consumers and thus raise demand for a product again benefiting the producer.  What are the legalities related to GI Tag? It is covered as an element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under the Paris Convention for the Protection of Industrial Property. At international level, GI is governed by World Trade Organisation’s (WTO’s) Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). In India, GI registration is governed by the Geographical Indications of goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. This Act is administered by Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks, who is also Registrar of Geographical Indications and is based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. India and GI Tag: India has about 300 registered GIs, but few have been used for commercial value addition. Two of India’s well-known GIs are Darjeeling tea and Basmati rice, but both seem to be minuscule in terms of market impact when compared with, say, Chilean wine or Danish cheese.  While a programme to promote branding and commercialisation of GI products for exports has been initiated in the Directorate General of Foreign Trade policies during 2015-20, it is pertinent to take it to the next level. What lessons can also be learnt from other countries in promoting brands: Many countries have opted for clustering, which is at the root of branding agricultural commodities and adding value to products.  For example, France started this for wine, and soon after many other countries followed—Japan for Kobe beef, Colombia for Juan Valdez coffee and New Zealand for Manuka honey. A celebrated example is that of Malaysia for having implemented commodity branding programme called Malaysia’s Best. It is an umbrella brand for selected horticultural products that guarantee quality and safety in accordance with Malaysian standards and good agricultural practices. Aggressive branding of agri-products is that government support, if given, would be WTO-compliant as it is placed under the ‘green box’ instead of ‘amber box’.  Currently, India supports agri-exporters through duty drawback and under the Merchandise Export from India Scheme, which may carry the risk of being WTO non-compliant. It goes without saying that adequate budgetary allocations towards aggressive branding and packaging can encourage producers and exporters. Conclusion: An initiative India should take is branding agri-products through steps such as geographical indication. An increased thrust on agricultural exports is well documented in the Agriculture Export Policy 2018, and is also visible through alterations in the tariffs and non-tariffs measures. Connecting the dots: Discuss the benefits and problems of GI tag? How geographical indication can boost agriculture exports. Explain? (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about Perseids Meteor shower They occur every year during December  The meteor shower appears as the Earth passes through the cosmic dust left by the comet Swift-Tuttle. They are visible in the Northern Hemisphere and can be viewed in skies all across. Which of the statement(s) given above is / are correct? 1 and 2only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements  Reverse repo Rate is the rate at which the RBI lends money to commercial banks Repo-linked deposit and lending rates will bring transparency in bank rates and leads to quick transmission of monetary policy rate cuts. Decrease in bank deposit rate will lead to increase in formalisation of economy Which of the statement(s) given above is / are incorrect? 1 and 2only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.3) Consider the following statements about Regulatory sandbox It refers to live testing of new products or services in a controlled/test regulatory environment for which regulators may permit certain regulatory relaxations for the limited purpose of the testing RBI will launch the sandbox for entities involved in money transfer services, digital know-your customer, crypto currency, credit registry and credit information. Which of the statement(s) given above is / are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Injeti Srinivas Committee appointed by Union Government deals with which of the following issues? Recapitalization of Public Sector banks Economic Capital Framework for RBI Cryptocurrency Reviewing of Corporate Social Responsibility MUST READ: The contours of the Kashmir move The Hindu Biodiversity in the time of deluge The Hindu India must recycle or reuse water and adopt conservation methods now Financial Express National Education Policy needs more extensive reforms to succeed Financial Express

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UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 48

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 48 Archives Q.1) Which of the following is/are correctly matched? Kobani – Syria Deir ez-Zor – Yemen Raqqa – Palestine Select the correct code: 1 Only 1 and 2 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) ‘Warsaw International Mechanism’ is associated with Climate Change Disaster Risk Reduction Proliferation of missile and unmanned aerial vehicle technology Chemical and biological weapons Q.3) Which of the following is/are correctly matched?          Water Bodies     Country Aral Sea – Turkey Lake Baikal – Hungary Markermeer Lake – Netherlands Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only 2 and 3  3 Only Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Criminal Tribes Act’ The term, ‘De-notified and Nomadic Tribes’, can be traced to this Act It was repealed in 1952 and the Habitual Offenders Act was enacted in its place. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Mekedatu dam project’ which is often seen is news is being built across which of the following rivers? Cauvery Mandovi Krishna Godavari To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

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