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Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 64]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 64] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements about ‘International Criminal Court (ICC)’ It is the principal judicial organ of the United Nations (UN) It comprises a panel of 15 judges elected by the General Assembly and Security Council for nine-year terms. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) ‘Yudh Abhyas’ is a bilateral military exercise between India and United States of America Japan France Russia Q.3) ‘Lippa-Asra wildlife sanctuary’ is located in Himachal Pradesh Uttarakhand Sikkim Mizoram Q.4) The Bishkek Declaration is concerned with conservation of Pandas Snow Leopards Coral Reefs Cougars Q.5) The ‘Horn of Africa’ is bordered with which of the following water bodies? Red Sea Gulf of Guinea Gulf of Aden Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 63]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 63] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act’ It was enacted to prevent the infliction of unnecessary pain or suffering on animals and to amend the laws relating to the prevention of cruelty to animals The Animal Welfare Board of India was established under this Act It extends to the whole of India except the State of Jammu and Kashmir Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)’ It is under the aegis of Ministry of Earth Sciences It was founded in 1861 by James Prinsep Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Pacific trash vortex’ It is a gyre of marine debris particles in the central North Pacific Ocean It is the largest accumulation of ocean plastic in the world and is located between Hawaii and California Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘The Ocean Cleanup’ It is a foundation that develops technologies to extract plastic pollution from the oceans and prevent more plastic debris from entering ocean waters System 001 is the world’s first ocean clean-up system developed by ‘The Ocean Cleanup’ Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Article 161 of Constitution of India deals with Extent of executive power of State Oath or affirmation by the Governor Qualifications for appointment as Governor Power of Governor to grant pardons To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 11th September 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 11th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Good Governance: Delhi launches doorstep delivery of govt. services  Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Governance; Government schemes and policies In news: Delhi government launched its ambitious project to deliver public services at the doorstep of residents. From driving licences to marriage certificates, Delhiites can now apply for 40 government documents to be delivered at their homes for a fee of ₹50 per service. The applicant would have to call 1076 and fix an appointment with a mobile sahayak, who will go to their home and help with filling forms, payment of fees and collection of documents. The mobile sahayak would then submit the documents at the government office concerned, which would post the certificate or licence once issued. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/09/11/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_01/743478ae_2383537_101_mr.jpg Culture: Martial Arts Gatka (Shastar Vidya) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I – Indian Art and Culture About Gatka: Originating from the state of Punjab, Gatka is believed to be a battle technique created by Sikh warriors during the martial period of great Sikh Gurus. A style of stick fighting between two or more practitioners, Gatka is a toned-down version of the deadlier Shastar Vidya, the fighting style of the fearsome Akali Nihangs, the blue-turbaned sect of Sikh fighters banned by the British after the Anglo-Sikh wars. The sharp swords of Shastar Vidya have been replaced by wooden sticks (soti) and shields (farri) in Gatka. Pic: A Sikh youth performs ‘Gatka’ (martial arts) during a religious procession at the Golden Temple in Amritsar Changes in ASI Act opposed Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I - Heritage and Culture; Conservation of monuments; Urbanisation issues About: As per original Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 (AMASR Act 1958), an area of 100 mtrs from protected boundary has been declared as prohibited area and an area of 200 mtrs further beyond prohibited limit has been declared as regulated area, in which construction activities are regulated New constructions are not allowed in prohibited area. However, no restriction on sale and purchase of land. Concern: However, a recent note of the culture ministry to the cabinet has a proposal to amend the law that accords protection to heritage sites in the country. Ministry of Culture’s note suggests following amendments It suggests giving legal powers to the Central government with respect to new construction in protected sites by superceding existing bodies like the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and National Monuments’ Authority (NMA) respectively. In other words, the amendments suggested tends to do away with the prohibited zones around protected national monuments whenever it chooses to do so for some supposed “public” purpose. If above amendment or suggestion is implemented, several new constructions could happen in the immediate vicinity of protected properties of national importance. However, the government had announced that such restrictions on new construction within the “prohibited area” adversely impact various public works and developmental projects of the Central Government. This amendment will thus pave the way for certain constructions, limited strictly to public works and projects essential to the people, within the prohibited area and benefit the public at large. In news: Historians have opposed changes to the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958. (AMASR Act) The amendment proposes to allow the construction of Centre-approved public infrastructure within a 100 metre radius of Archaeological Survey of India (ASI)-protected monuments. Miscellaneous India is set to gain the top slot in farmed shrimp production, overtaking China in 2019-20. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2  Bilateral 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 Too close for comfort? (2+2 meeting) Introduction The India-U.S. 2+2 meeting between the Defence and Foreign Ministers of the two countries, held recently, appeared to be a singularly one-sided affair. While carefully analysing the outcomes of the talks and the future direction of India-U.S. relations, it is difficult to get overjoyed by heart-warming American phrases like “India is a consequential emerging partner” or Washington naming and shaming Pakistan. Buy American: Trade relations The U.S.’s insistence that India should bring down its oil imports from Iran to ‘zero’ in deference to the restrictions imposed by its unilateral withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal. The S. recommends that India buy American oil to make up the deficit. As a matter of fact, U.S. oil exports to India have more than doubled in the past year, thereby helping a booming domestic crude oil industry of US. Washington seeks to impose the punitive provisions of a U.S. federal law called Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA) on countries dealing with Russian defence and intelligence sectors, making it difficult for India to buy the much-needed S-400 missile system. For a country like India, with close to 60% of its weapons systems originating from Russia, this would be a huge setback, it’s clear that the U.S. would like India to buy its weapons instead. There is still no clarity on whether India’s request for a “one-time waiver” was granted by the U.S. to buy Russian weapons at the 2+2 meeting; the joint statement is silent on this. In the run-up to the 2+2 meeting, the U.S. also put considerable pressure on India to reduce the bilateral trade deficit, which is in India’s favour, by buying more American goods. Do you know? The four foundational agreements for military cooperation with US are; The General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) The Logistics Supply Agreement (LSA) or what is now called the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) The Communication and Information Security Memorandum of Agreement (CISMOA) or what is now called the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) to suggest a more India-specific agreement The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) India signed the GSOMIA in 2002 and the LEMOA in 2016. The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) is yet to be signed. COMCASA During the 2+2 meeting, the two countries also signed the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement, or COMCASA. The agreement is one of the four considered to be “foundational” for a viable India-U.S. military relationship. It is necessary to take stock of the national security implications of these agreements. Arguments in support of COMCASA It will facilitate access to advanced defence systems and enable India to optimally utilise its existing U.S.-origin platforms. India’s U.S.-sourced P-8I and C-130J aircraft had to use low-tech communication equipment as the U.S. could not provide India with such technologies due to domestic legal restrictions, unless India signed COMCASA. In the absence of COMCASA, and the attendant high-tech equipment, the interoperability between Indian and U.S. forces would be severely hampered. Concerns related to COMCASA The India-specific COMCASA is not a public document, we do not know the scope of the agreement. Therefore, the government needs to clarify several concerns. There is the issue of visits by U.S. inspectors to Indian bases to carry out inspections on the COMCASA-safeguarded equipment sold to India. Since we do not know how intrusive this inspection would be, it is useful to look at the language from a similar agreement signed between the U.S. and South Korea in 2008. No doubt, South Korea is a U.S. military ally, which India is not. So one hopes that the provisions of inspections would be less intrusive. But there is no getting away from the fact that COMCASA will apply end-use monitoring and reconfiguration restrictions on India as well. In any case, by signing COMCASA and by agreeing to reduce the purchase of Russian weapon systems (in line with CAATSA), India has implicitly accepted the extraterritorial application of U.S. law on itself. The original End-Use Monitoring Agreement (EUMA) was agreed to between India and the U.S., in 2009, New Delhi has now taken the application of U.S. federal law on India to a completely new level. EUMA had reportedly ensured that U.S. inspectors would stay away from Indian bases: is that ensured under COMCASA as well? Moreover, did India push for a U.S. presidential waiver for receiving COMSEC equipment and materials without having to sign COMCASA. Whether the installation of U.S. communication systems would compromise the secrecy of Indian military communication systems. The debate ay start on the utility of such India-U.S. agreements since, at the end of the day, the two countries are not likely to be deployed alongside each other in a conflict situation. Balancing China Even though the “Joint Statement on the Inaugural India-U.S. 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue” did not explicitly mention China, the section on the Indo-Pacific region implicitly referred to it. Both sides said in a joint statement that they had discussed trade issues, cooperation on fighting terrorism, advancing “a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region” and promoting sustainable “debt-financing” in the region. Way forward India must not compromise her economic and strategic interests under the pressure of US, nor should distance herself from US. India should make use of American assistance in strengthening its national security, but there should be more clarity on what it entails. India is an Asian country, with several Southern Asian security challenges, and its ability to meet those challenges with the help of an offshore (and declining) superpower is at best limited, and counter-productive at worst. The India-U.S. relationship shouldn’t be allowed to define India’s geopolitical character, strategic future or the limits of its other bilateral relationships. In a world that is far more chaotic than ever since Independence, India must keep its options open and be multi-aligned, even as the U.S. forms a key part in that scheme of things. Connecting the dots: Comment on significance of India US relations in era of rising Asia. NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation Ending TB: "Political Declaration" Introduction After decades spent battling the scourge of tuberculosis (TB) in developing countries, 2018 might be the year that it is finally accorded the gravitas it deserves. On September 26, the UN General Assembly will, for the first time, address TB in a High-Level Meeting and likely release a Political Declaration, endorsed by all member nations, to galvanise investment and action to meet the global target of eliminating TB worldwide by 2035. Do you know? About TB The Mycobacterium tuberculosis bacterium causes TB. It is spread through the air when a person with TB (whose lungs are affected) coughs, sneezes, spits, laughs, or talks. TB is, by and large, easily diagnosable and curable. It is unacceptable that it nevertheless remains the leading causes of death from any single infectious agent worldwide. Each day, thousands of people with TB die, often because of inequitable access to quality diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the rapid emergence of drug-resistant forms of TB (DR-TB) in many countries brings a fresh set of needs including new and comprehensive diagnostic tests and second-line TB drugs, and health systems trained anew to manage DR-TB. TB in India India not only accounts for a fifth of the world’s TB burden, it also has the largest number of people living with multidrug-resistant TB. India has fought to retain its status as a maker and distributor of generic medicines, thereby protecting the right to health of people in developing countries. Indian patent law contains important provisions that help protect and promote public health goals — for example, by overcoming bids by big pharma to evergreen patents of old drugs, through compulsorily licensing for certain drugs, and by permitting pre- and post-grant opposition to patents to challenge unfair patenting practices by big pharma. Meaning of Elimination of a disease Elimination means reducing the number to one case per million people per year. It will be impossible without universal, equitable access to affordable, quality TB diagnostics and treatment for anyone who needs it. Omissions in Political Declaration Countries may avail of the various flexibilities under the Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights; Countries may invoke the Doha Declaration to compulsorily license drugs for use in public health emergencies. The option to de-link the pricing of new TB drugs from the costs incurred in their research and development. Criticism of Political Declaration Due to above mentioned omissions; the latest draft is a watered-down version of the original that actively committed to upholding access to affordable generics for all. Much to the disappointment of global civil society, issues around access to diagnostics and drugs have been considerably diluted in the most recent draft of the Political Declaration. Conclusion India aims to eliminate TB by 2025, ahead of the global targets. These targets cannot be achieved without access to affordable, quality diagnostics/ drugs. Unless India assumes a leadership role to restore every possible option to protect universal access to TB drugs in the Political Declaration, 2018 may end up being just another brick in the wall. Connecting the dots: TB remains one of the leading causes of death from any single infectious agent worldwide. Comment on the national and global efforts to eliminate the disease by 2035. Note: For more details and FAQ about TB in India, visit: Central Tuberculosis Division, Government of 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) Gatka, a traditional martial art associated with Lingayatism Bahá'í Sanamahism None of the above Q.2) Match List I (Martial Arts) with List II (Associated States) and select the correct answer with the help of the codes given below: List-I                                                    List-II (Martial Arts)                          (Associated State) Thang-Ta                             A. Andhra Pradesh Gatka                                   B. Tamil Nadu Silambam                            C. Punjab Karra Samu/Kathi Samu      D. Manipur Select the correct answer:           1-2-3-4 A-B-C-D D-B-C-A D-C-B-A C-A-B-D Q.3) Which of the following statement is incorrect? Andhra Pradesh is the leading fish producer of India. In India, production from marine fishing is higher than inland fishing. Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh is known as the shrimp capital of India. Apatani tribe of Arunachal Pradesh practice fishing in their paddy fields. Q.4) Health Ministries, NGOs and private sector representatives from 120 countries have signed the Moscow declaration of WHO. The target of declaration is To eradicate polio from the world till 2030 To eradicate vector borne infections To eradicate Tuberculosis by 2030 To end deaths by hunger in the world by 2030 Q.5) Consider the following with regard to Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) Tuberculosis (TB) is caused by Virus MDR-TB is a type of tuberculosis which is unresponsive to at least two of the first line of anti-TB drugs isoniazid and rifampicin Bedaquiline is a medication used in the treatment of MDR-TB Choose the appropriate code 2 only 2 and 3 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ Much must change in Kerala The Hindu  Cause for caution The Hindu The one who reached out to China The Hindu A foreign offence Indian Express  To put Kerala back on its feet Indian Express Raja Mandala: Reconnecting with Europe Indian Express

PIB

IASbaba PIB Weekly : Press Information Bureau – 3rd Sep to 9th Sep, 2018

IASbaba Press Information Bureau 3rd to 9th September, 2018 ARCHIVES GS-2 Cabinet approves Continuation of the Centrally Sponsored Umbrella Scheme of Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats beyond 12th Plan The Scheme consists of Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger (CSS-PT) Development of Wildlife Habitats (CSS-DWH) Project Elephant (CSS-PE) A total of 18 tiger range States, distributed in five landscapes of the country would be benefitted under the Project Tiger scheme. Similarly, for other two schemes, the coverage is entire country in case of Development of Wildlife Habitats (DWH) and 23 elephant range States for Project Elephant. It would foster wildlife conservation in general with specific inputs for tiger in Project Tiger area and elephant in Project Elephant area. Intended impact: Overall strengthening/ consolidation of tiger, elephant and wildlife conservation in the country Address the human wildlife conflict effectively Generate employment opportunities resulting in economic upliftment of people in and around tiger reserves/ Protected Areas Reduction in natural resource dependency with substitution by clean energy use Will generate direct employment of about 30 lakh mandays annually which shall include many local tribes besides non-tribal local workforce. People living in vicinity would also get indirect benefits Local populace would get opportunities to serve as guides, driver, hospitality personnel and in other ancillary jobs These schemes would foster imparting various skills towards making people self-dependent through various eco-development projects, thereby enabling them to go for self-employment. Resource generation through tourist visits, thereby fostering in securing tiger source areas and other areas important for wildlife conservation, besides being helpful in sustaining life support systems as well as ensuring the food, water and livelihood security. Establishment and operationalization of permanent campus of seven new IIMs at: Amritsar Bodh Gaya Nagpur Sambalpur Sirmaur Vishakhapatnam Jammu India and Bulgaria have signed five agreements during President Kovind’s visit (Topic: India’s relations with various countries) An agreement between Invest India and Invest Bulgaria An agreement on cooperation in and facilitation of tourism An agreement on enhanced science and technology cooperation An agreement on civil nuclear research and cooperation An agreement between the Indian Council of Cultural Relations and Sofia University to promote Hindi studies India and Czech Republic sign five agreements (Topic: India’s relations with various countries) Cooperation between the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, India, and the Czech Academy of Sciences A work plan to support Indo-Czech projects in diverse areas of science and technology, with the Department of Science and Technology taking the lead from the Indian side A visa waiver agreement for diplomatic passport holders Cooperation in laser technology between ELI Beamlines and the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research Cooperation between the Haryana Agricultural University and the Czech University of Life Sciences Have also agreed to initiate cooperation in civil nuclear energy. India and France sign an implementation agreement on “MOBILISE YOUR CITY” (MYC) (Topic: India’s relations with various countries) Mobilise Your City (MYC) is part of an international initiative which is supported by the French and the German Governments and was launched at 21st Conference of Parties (COP21) meeting in December, 2015. Based on a proposal made by AFD in 2015, the European Union has agreed to provide funds of Euro 3.5 million through the AFD to contribute to specific investments and technical assistance components within the Mobilise Your City (MYC) programme in India. The MYC aims at supporting three pilot cities viz. Nagpur, Kochi and Ahmedabad in their efforts to reduce their Green House Gas (GHG) emissions related to urban transport by implementing urban mobility plans at local level and to help India at national level to improve their sustainable transport policy. The three pilot cities selected under the programme as well as MoHUA will benefit from the Technical Assistance activities. The main components of the proposed assistance are: (1) To support planning and implementation of sustainable urban transport projects, (2) Support to strengthening institutional capacity for regulating, steering and planning urban mobility, and (3) Learning and exchange formats with other cities across India for exchanges on best practices. 3rd ASEM (Asia-Europe Meeting) Conference (Topic: India and international groups and Summits) On: Global Ageing and Human Rights of Older Persons Where: Seoul, Korea Purpose: Will reaffirm the universal value of the human rights of older persons Share information on discrimination against the elderly and exemplary cases of long-term and palliative care in Asia and Europe Discuss operation and tasks of the ASEM Global Ageing Centre as an implementing institution for mutual cooperation among ASEM members for the protection and promotion of the human rights of older persons. Will be beneficial for Policy formulation and implementation for welfare of senior citizens.     13th Sustainability Summit (Topic: India and international groups and Summits) Theme – “Everyone’s future” Environment India has registered 1 per cent growth in its forest and tree cover, according to the latest report of Forest Survey of India. ‘PARIVESH’- a single window clearance system in the spheres of Environment, Forest, Wildlife and Coastal Regulation Zone – the automated system will help applicants track the application status, as well as help in improving environmental compliance. India’s affirmative action in embracing a sustainable lifestyle by aligning the 5 Ps – People, Planet, Prosperity, Peace and Partnership. National Clean Air Action Plan and air quality monitoring infrastructure are the Government’s key areas of focus Housing and Urban Development India stands united in its efforts against rising global temperatures and a quick glance at India’s Intended Nationally Determined Contributions reaffirm this point. India’s target: 175 GW renewable energy capacities by 2022 Adoption of the Sustainable Development Goals in 2015 recognized the intrinsic linkages between climate change and urbanization. “Goal 11, titled “Make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable” has embedded in it, critical elements of climate action. Swacch Bharat Mission (SBM) is not only about infrastructure, but also bringing about behavioural and cultural changes among citizens (to make India ODF and have 100% scientific solid waste management by October 2, 2019) To ensure India’s city driven development is sustainable, the government has embarked on the world’s largest planned urbanization programme. The key to the process is “integration”, meaning all policies, projects, and proposals are considered in relation to one another. Use of new and alternate construction technologies in the construction of houses, locally available eco-friendly materials suited to local climatic conditions are being encouraged, reducing not only the cost of construction but also the resultant carbon footprint. Circular economy and resource efficiency can provide solutions to the challenges posed in the process of reconciling economic growth with environmental sustainability, and hence there is a need for corporate participation in building resource efficiency and a circular economy. MOVE: India’s First Global Mobility Summit 2018 (Topic: India and international groups and Summits) Focus of the summit: On raising awareness about various aspects of Mobility and bringing various stakeholders involved in enhancing mobility across different platforms. To revolutionise the way people travel in India, along with making mobility more connected, shared and seamless With disruptions in the mobility sector, we will be able to generate more employment & enhance the ease of living for citizens in India Please Note: 2030: Timeline for elimination of Tuberculosis fixed by WHO; For India, the timeline is 2025 (Link) AMRIT Deendayal: An acronym for 'Affordable Medicines & Reliable Implants for Treatment' – Centres that provide medicines for cancer & cardiovascular diseases and cardiac implants at significantly reduced prices. Joint surprise check to unearth misuse of oxytocin: Oxytocin is a peptide hormone used in various conditions such as induction of labor, control of postpartum bleeding or haemorrhage, etc. It has been reported from time to time that clandestine activities of manufacture and sale of oxytocin is leading to its grave misuse, which is harmful to animals and humans. Its misuse is mostly in the dairy industry, where livestock are injected with oxytocin to make them release milk. KAZIND: Indo-Kazakhstan Joint Army Exercise IOWave18: India, along with 23 otherIndian Ocean Nations, participated in a major Indian ocean-wide tsunami mock exercise (drill) Organized by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO, which coordinated the setting up of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (IOTWMS) in the aftermath of the 26 December 2004 tsunami. All coastal states tested communication modes for receipt of bulletins from INCOIS. The end-to-end warning system from tsunami detection and forecast, threat evaluation and alert formulation, alert dissemination to public and their awareness and response was put to test during this exercise. 2nd World Hindu Congress: At Chicago, on the occasion of 125th Anniversary of Swami Vivekananda’s Historic Speech at the Parliament of the World's Religions in 1893. Mahatma Gandhi International Sanitation Convention (MGISC): A 4-day international conference that will bring together Sanitation Minsters and other leaders in WASH (water, sanitation and hygiene) from around the world. To mark the beginning of the 150th birth anniversary celebrations of Mahatma Gandhi, also coinciding with the fourth anniversary of the launch of Swachh Bharat Mission. India aims to eliminate open defecation by October 2nd, 2019, the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who held sanitation very close to his heart. The success of the Swachh Bharat Mission will undoubtedly have a significant impact on the global achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 6.2), i.e. to achieve access to adequate and equitable sanitation and hygiene for all. Simultaneously, coordinated efforts are in place to improve sanitation levels in all sectors and all public places. The global Convention will be aimed at sharing sanitation success stories and lessons across all participating countries. WAN Connectivity to district and subordinate courts One of the important components of eCourts Mission Mode Project Phase-II (2015-19) is establishment of Wide Area Network (WAN) connecting all District and Subordinate court complexes, spread across the country. The eCourts project has made significant progress under the guidance of e-Committee of Supreme Court of India in computerizing 16,089 district and subordinate courts of the country through installation of case information software, hardware and local area network in courts, thus making judiciary ICT – enabled for efficient and transparent functioning with a positive overall impact on the justice delivery system. Launch of an online monitoring tool prepared by NIC for tracking real-time progress and monitoring of pan - Indian Wide Area Network (WAN) project against the set baselines Agreement between Financial Intelligence Unit, India, and Unit for Combating Money Laundering of Cyprus: Aims at sharing financial intelligence and fighting money laundering, terror financing and related crimes. ISA Stands for co-operation among 121 solar rich countries lying fully or partially between the tropics in order to promote massive deployment of solar energy and make solar energy affordable. Provides an opportunity to all countries to bring prosperity, energy security and sustainable development to their peoples. Pradhan Mantri JanDhan Yojana (PMJDY): National Mission on Financial Inclusion to Increase banking penetration Promote financial inclusion Provide at least one bank account per household across the country The Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership: A mega regional free trade agreement being negotiated amongst 16 countries, comprising 10 ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam) and six ASEAN FTA partners, namely Australia, China, India, Japan, Korea and New Zealand. Coffee Connect - India coffee field force app To ease the work of field functionaries To improve the work efficiency Provides solution by harnessing the power of mobility comprising the latest technology in easing the whole process of the field activities like digitization of Coffee Growers & Estates with Geo Tagging, collecting the Plantation details Help in transparency in the activities of the extension officers and officials, transparency in subsidy disbursement and real time report generation. Coffee KrishiTharanga - Digital mobile extension services for coffee stakeholders Aimed at providing customized information and services to increase productivity, profitability, and environmental sustainability. The solution will help in to reach maximum growers in limited period, efficient, timely, customised advisory, improve the efficiency through digitisation and leverage existing mobile reach for wider delivery of improved technology. Quotes: President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind On Youth, Technology and Ideas: Shaping the Contours of the 21st Century Perhaps for the first time in history, youth are directly involved in bringing about sweeping changes and on such a massive scale. Technology has opened a whole new world of learning. And it has also made it easier to accomplish our tasks. The pursuit of excellence should be the key factor that dominates the minds of future generations. Access, equity and inclusion should remain key to developing and deploying technologies. By adding sustainability to development, by preserving forests, respecting ecology and by adopting clean energy options, we can tackle climate change. On this count, India has taken the lead through the International Solar Alliance. New age technology combined with the wisdom of the past can solve many of our ecological problems. Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu On the book release of Constitutionalizing India: an Ideational Project authored by Shri Bidyut Chakrabarty Constitution is the guiding light on all matters of governance and jurisprudence Even 68 years after it came into force, the Constitution continues to be the guiding light on all matters connected with governance and jurisprudence. Sardar Patel, who played a key role in drafting the Constitution, wanted a strong centre and a robust, homogenous administration to maintain the unity and integrity of India. He had presented reports on rights of minorities, tribals and Directive principles, among others, to the Constituent Assembly. The architect of the Indian Constitution Dr. B.R. Ambedkar in his address to the constituent assembly described how magnificently the framers of the constitution accomplished the formidable task in less than three years. Dr. Ambedkar pointed out that constitutions of America, Canada, South Africa and Australia were much smaller than our constitution. However good a constitution may be, if those who are implementing it are not good, it will prove to be bad. However bad a constitution may be, if those implementing it are good, it will prove to be good. - Dr. B.R. Ambedkar On Teachers Teachers are the key Architects of National Development. It is because of teachers like you that our system of education is moving steadily towards greater heights of excellence. It has been said that “values are caught and  that they can rarely be taught” which means the teachers must ensure through their behaviour, through their communication with students and in the way the classes are organised that values of equality, democracy, peace and  working together become an integral part of the school ethos. It has been found that an important contributory factor for creating high performing systems, like in countries like Finland for instance, is the respect that the society accords to its teachers. Swami Vivekananda said, “We want that education by which character is formed, strength of mind is increased, the intellect is expanded and by which one can stand on one’s own feet.” Teachers must make their instruction learner-friendly and this essentially implies that if we have to universalise quality education the teachers must individualise learning. They must know each child well and respond to the learning needs of each and every child in the classroom. Experiential learning or learning by doing is one the most effective methods. As Confucius had said, “I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand”. Teachers should make students learn through activities and this is the basic principle which has been detailed by educationists like Gurudev Tagore, Shri Aurobindo and Mahatma Gandhiji. Gandhiji had evolved a comprehensive, integrated vision of education called ‘Nayee Taaleem’ which relied on learning by doing, he added.

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 62]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 62] Archives Q.1) Which of the following statements is correct about ‘Colobopsis explodens’? It is a species of ant found in Southeast Asia It is a species of night frog found in Western Ghats It is a newly discovered moth at Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary It is a medicinal plant found in Pir Panjal range Q.2) ‘HupB’ is an essential protein of which of the bacteria? Vibrio cholerae Mycobacterium tuberculosis Bacillus anthracis Borrelia burgdorferi Q.3) ‘Eusociality’ is displayed in which of the following? Termites Bees Ants Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) ‘Kebul Lamjao’ is India’s only floating National Park. Which of the following lakes hosts this park? Dal Lake Wular Lake Chilka Lake Loktak Lake Q.5) ‘Greyhounds’ have been in news recently, they are Suicide bombers Coastal guards Anti-naxal force Police dogs used in detecting bombs To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 10th September 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 10th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Pardoning powers of President and Governor Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Indian Polity In news: Tamil Nadu Cabinet recommended to Governor that all seven life convicts in the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi assassination case be released under Article 161 of the Constitution. Do you know? Article 72 deals with power of president to grant pardons, etc., and to suspend, remit or commute sentences in certain cases. Article 161 deals with power of governor to grant pardons, etc., and to suspend, remit or commute sentences in certain cases. The Governor of a State shall have the power to grant pardons, reprieves, respites or remissions of punishment or to suspend, remit or commute the sentence of any person convicted of any offence against any law relating to a matter to which the executive power of the State extends. Important value additions: Governor can only pardon in the cases which are related to state's law not the central law. Governor can reduce the sentence or can completely pardon it. It is up to him but remember case must be within that state's law. He doesn’t have any power if the offender has been awarded with the death sentence, whether by the state's law or central law. If the capital punishment has been given then only president of India can pardon it however governor can delay it. Governor doesn’t have any power on the matters related to military rules like court-martial however president can pardon or alter them too. 2 irrigation facilities in Telangana get heritage tag Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Agriculture and Irrigation; Infrastructure In news: International Executive Council, the highest decision making body of International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID), at Saskatoon in Canada last month has accepted Telangana government’s nomination of 2 irrigation facilities in the ICID Register of Heritage Irrigation Structures. Names of the 2 irrigation facilities – Sadarmatt anicut across river Godavari in Nirmal district and Pedda Cheruvu in Kamareddy district. (over-century-old irrigation facilities) Do you know? The anicut, which is English word for Telugu’s ana-katta, meaning a rainfall bund. Animal in news: Endangered ‘Pondicherry shark’ ‘Pondicherry shark’, an endangered species protected under the provisions of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, was spotted in Kakinada, Andhra Pradesh. Known as ‘Pala Sora’ in the local parlance, the ‘Pondicherry Shark’ is on the verge of extinction even according to the conventional fishermen. Fishermen, however, are unaware of its conservation status which is on a par with the tiger. IUCN status: Critically Endangered. This is very rare Indo-West Pacific species. Swami Vivekananda quotes In news: 125th anniversary of Swami Vivekananda’s address to the Parliament of World Religions in 1893. Swami Vivekananda’s ideas of universal tolerance, compassion, and concern for the poor are as relevant today as they were during his lifetime. Important quotes for exam – Arise awake and stop not till the goal is reached — Swami Vivekananda (This quote can be used in Ethics/Essay answers dealing with Hope/Corruption/Faith) One ounce of practice is worth twenty thousand tons of big talk (Swami Vivekananda – This quote can be used to conclude almost every essay). “It is impossible to think about the welfare of the world unless the condition of women is improved. It is impossible for a bird to fly on only one wing” – Swami Vivekananda. (On women empowerment) All nations have attained greatness by paying proper respect to women. That country and that nation which do not respect women have never become great, nor will ever be in future – Swami Vivekananda. “All the different religions are but applications of the one religions adapted to suite the requirements of different nations”. - Swami Vivekananda. (on Religion) “If in this hell of a world one can bring a little joy & peace even for a day into the heart of a single person, that much alone is true; this I have learnt after suffering all my life, all else is mere moonshine” – Swami Vivekananda (on serving Humanity) SEBI reforms on FPIs Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III - Indian Economy and associated issues About: Foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) are currently allowed to invest up to 10% in a single listed Indian company. According to SEBI’s circular, their total investment in all the investee companies put together cannot exceed this limit. As of now, entity owning a majority stake in a fund is considered a beneficial owner (BO). A BO is one who directly or indirectly derives the benefits of ownership. However, according to SEBI’s recent circular, it said Resident Indians (RIs), Non Resident Indians (NRIs), Persons of Indian Origin (PIOs) and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs) cannot be the beneficial owner (BO) of a fund investing in India. In other words, SEBI asked FPIs to determine ownership based on both shareholding and control. In news: SEBI-appointed panel has suggested a few amendments to the circular. The panel, headed by former RBI Deputy Governor H.R. Khan suggested NRIs, OCIs and RIs be allowed to manage foreign funds that invest in India subject to certain holding limits. Second, a single NRI, OCI or RI cannot hold more than 25% of the assets under management of the foreign fund and the aggregate holding of such entities has to be below 50%. The Centre had told SEBI that it need not use the BO definition laid down under Prevention of Money Laundering Act. SEBI has been asked to consult the Centre to evolve a more objective criteria for defining high-risk jurisdictions. Miscellaneous Part of: GS Mains II and III – Role of NGO in environment conservation; Pollution The Ocean Cleanup Project by the Dutch non-profit group, hopes to clean up half of the infamous garbage patch within five years (in Pacific ocean) (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2  Bilateral 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 2+2 = ? (Analysis of India US equation) Introduction Recently, 2+2 meeting held in New Delhi between External and Defence ministers of India on one side and their respective counterpart secretaries on the other side from US. There are some positive outcomes of the meeting, but also there are many negative takeaways also. Positives The India-U.S. defence relationship has been given a significant boost with the three agreements signed after the inaugural 2+2 Dialogue in Delhi: the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), “hotlines” between the Defence and Foreign Ministers of both countries, and the first tri-services military exercises between the two countries. COMCASA is the third of four “foundational”, or enabling agreements signed by India after more than a decade of negotiations, and is perceived as an inevitable consequence of the large amount of U.S. defence hardware it has been purchasing. This will increase, going forward, given the U.S. decision to include India in the top tier of countries entitled to Strategic Trade Authorisation (STA-1). Apart from the defence agreements, both sides said in a joint statement that they had discussed trade issues, cooperation on fighting terrorism, advancing “a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region” and promoting sustainable “debt-financing” in the region. The last two points are clearly aimed at Beijing’s role in the South China Sea and the Belt and Road Initiative projects, respectively. Negatives India did not receive a clear-cut assurance of its GSP (Generalised System of Preferences) status being restored, or of waivers on steel and aluminium tariffs imposed by Washington. Instead, U.S. officials said clearly that they expect India to increase imports of American oil and gas as well as aircraft in order to wipe out the trade surplus India enjoys. It is unclear whether the Centre has acquiesced to this blatantly anti-free market demand, but its silence on the matter is disturbing. The U.S.’s other demand, to “zero out” oil imports from Iran by November, is simply unreasonable. It would hurt India dearly not only because of costs at a time when the dollar is strengthening and fuel prices are going up, but also in terms of its substantial engagement with Iran. No public statement was made on what the U.S. will do on India’s investment in the Chabahar port once its full sanctions kick in on November 4. American officials also gave no firm commitment in their statements that India will receive a waiver to purchase Russian hardware, beginning with the S-400 missile system. Conclusion While signing agreements the U.S. has pursued for years, India appears to have taken a leap of faith on its own concerns, expecting that the Trump administration will come through on waiving sanctions and being more flexible on trade issues. Delhi must work with Washington in the next few months to ensure that the benefits from the 2+2 dialogue don’t add up only on the other side. Connecting the dots: Critically analyse the India US relations and concerns related to it. NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Important Functions and responsibilities of the government Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability Bail over jail Introduction The power of arrest is an extraordinary one, conferred on the police to be employed with discretion and deliberation, not as a tool of oppression and harassment at the hands of prosecuting authorities or the government of the day. Arrests: Provisions and observations The Supreme Court has emphasised that arrests should never be a reflexive response to an allegation of an offence, or even its commission. The law that empowers the police to arrest people without warrants (Section 41 of the CrPC) is reasonably stringent, demanding that some conditions be met, including that such arrests be carried out to prevent commission of further offences, tampering of evidence, and influencing of witnesses. The Supreme Court noted in Arnesh Kumar v. State of Bihar (2014), arbitary use of power to arrest, affects the liberty of citizens and which can ‘bring humiliation… and cast scars forever’. Examples of questionable arrests Recently, Tamil Nadu has attracted attention in this connection, particularly for the heavy-handed treatment of those opposing the Chennai-Salem eight-lane highway project. Tamil Nadu was witness to another example recently, when a student was arrested and remanded to 15 days judicial custody (before eventually being let off on bail) for political sloganeering on an aircraft. The recent and shocking arrests of activists, over their alleged links to Maoists, have focussed attention on the severe restrictions on bail when booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. Issues In most cases arrests without warrant follow a dishearteningly familiar course, with the accused sent to custody after the police oppose bail. In this prosecutorial ecosystem, jail succeeds in trumping bail almost every time and magistrates, who are empowered to refuse remand and grant bail, continue to issue orders mechanically. The dilemmas over maintaining the right balance between individual liberty and the interests of society invariably become more acute when the charges against the accused, well-established or otherwise, are serious. Under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, the prosecution has 180 days to file a charge sheet, a period during which bail is routinely denied. After the charge sheet is filed, bail is extremely difficult to secure, dependent as it is on the accused establishing his or her innocence, a reversal of the usual burden of proof. If the Supreme Court decides that justice will be secured only by its intervention in the case, it will probably be forced to invoke its extraordinary powers under Article 142 of the Constitution, another reminder of the need to break the customary chain of arrest, custody and remand. Conclusion The chain of arrest, custody, and remand must be linked only by due process. Provisions of arrest without warrant must be used ethically and in a more just ways. Connecting the dots: Arbitrary arrests without warrant are becoming a political tool to silent thee dissent. Critically 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 The Governor can pardon a death sentence prescribed by a state law. The power to pardon is to be exercised by the President on the advice of the Union Cabinet. The President cannot pardon sentences inflicted by court martial. Which of the above statement[s] is/are incorrect? 1 only 2 only 1 and 3 1 and 2 Q.2) Sadarmatt anicut, which recently got heritage tag by the International Executive Council, the highest decision making body of International Commission on Irrigation and Drainage (ICID) is over – River Godavari River Krishna River Sabarmati River Siang Q.3) Article 142 is news often. The Article is associated with – Special Leave Petition of Supreme Court Advisory jurisdiction of Supreme Court Enforcement of orders of Supreme Court Review of judgments by Supreme Court Q.4) Which of the following is correctly matched? Hambantota – Sri Lanka Chabahar - Afghanisatn Duqm – Iran Select the correct code: 1 Only 3 Only 1 and 2 2 and 3 MUST READ Bail over jail: on due process The Hindu  Cloudy forecast: on climate change The Hindu Why not Dalit? The Hindu  Absence on the bench Indian Express  Jobs, lost and found Indian Express

Important Articles

Can I Join ILP-2019 Now? Motivation and Guidelines for Late Joiners!

Dear Friends,   At the outset, we at IASbaba would like to congratulate all our followers for making ILP a big success over the last couple of years and even bigger this year! Nothing can replace quality, passion and pedigree for which IASBaba has become the name for! Since launching ILP, we have received couple to hundreds of emails asking for : Is it the right time to join ILP? It is already September and I haven’t even covered half the syllabus. Should I join ILP/AIPTS? How will ILP/AIPTS be beneficial at this stage? How do I go about my preparation if I join ILP/AIPTS now? ILP is an intensive programme having daily coverage and regular tests. I am already lagging behind. How should I go about this? We have tried to address those queries personally. However, here, we are trying to dispel the most prevalent doubts that we have received from our followers. We hope that these clarifications would make you take the right decision and you would start with a new zeal and energy. Firstly, we have students who have taken ILP till the month of March, April, few of them even in May and be able to utilise it to the best outcome!  So we see no reason why cannot you use it to the fullest even now! Even as we speak close to half a hundred aspirants subscribe every day and start their journey.  Further, ILP is not a Prelims Test Series only. It consists of Micro-level Plan- Both Prelims and Mains- Block Wise Manner Prelims Tests and Mains Mocks with Synopsis Prelims Value Add Notes topic wise as per the plan Mains Value Add Notes topic wise as per the plan Babapedia- Current Affairs for prelims Mind Maps- Covering Mains Issues from Current Affairs Our guidance and push all the time through motivational and strategic write-ups Dedicated Platform for all ILP users having Forums/Answer Writing, Essay guidance and Confession forum where they discuss their daily strategy and achievements of the plan and help each other. Let us give you a glimpse of our ILP-2019 Platform, its features and feedback from ILP 2019 students who are part of it.  After login to the ILP 2019 platform, you will have access to the platform   Look at the Menu Bar carefully. You will find How to Use ILP Platform Abhivyakti-Doubt Resolution Mains Answer Writing Practice  Booklist and Note-Making VALUE ADD NOTES MIND MAPS ESSAY GUIDANCE BABAPEDIA MOTIVATION AND GUIDANCE ON MAINS ANSWER WRITING/NOTE MAKING ETC. (FEEDBACK of STUDENTS)   Similarly, other features are given in Menu Bar.  GUIDANCE/ADVICE FOR LATE JOINERS   Irrespective of the situation, if someone is determined to attempt UPSC 2019 at this stage, will have to work equally hard and compete with others who have started the preparation earlier. UPSC’s parameters remain the same and whatever be the case, one has to equip him/herself with everything that is required to crack this exam. The only way to compensate the time factor is more effort with sincere commitment and dedication. Nothing else will come to rescue. By being part of ILP/AIPTS-2019 you already have got that extra support for quality content and guidance. You need not spend much time in quality content consolidation. Cannot you focus on it and be more aggressive in covering the syllabus in whatever time you are left with? You are still in doubts, pondering over things not in control and busy in speculations. Why not focus on preparation instead? Is it too hard to follow your dream? Yes, it is. Not everyone has guts to follow their own dream (though everyone is blessed to dream) ILP and AIPTS will play a vital role in your next attempt provided you are honest with it and your effort. And if you want to regret later, then most welcome to be in the state you are in. We want to convey only one thing in the last- every moment in the life is a fresh beginning. Don’t lose your precious time in thinking too much about your past efforts or the lack of it. Just focus on the present and make it count by giving your 100%. Kindly bear in mind that, it is not too late even now. If you are determined to do it, just do it. Either start with the present plan and simultaneously finish the missed portions. Or start from the beginning depending on your convenience. Ultimately, before the exam, you must be prepared well. Are you prepared to embrace the sunny side of your life and flash it to the world? Oho, just get going already! NOTE- IF YOU ARE JOINING ILP 2019, NO NEED TO JOIN AIPTS-2019 Go through full details of ILP 2019 and AIPTS 2019 before joining.  ILP 2019 FULL PLAN- CLICK HERE AIPTS 2019 FULL PLAN- CLICK HERE ILP 2019- FULL DETAILS AIPTS 2019- FULL DETAILS FEE OF ILP 2019- 9999/- PLUS 18% GST FEE OF AIPTS 2019- 5999/- PLUS 18% GST PAYMENT LINK-CLICK HERE  

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Creative Guidance – Believe in Yourself – Inspirational Educative Articles

Believe in Yourself: It is impossible for anybody else to believe in you. The reason for this is because nobody else knows your thoughts, dreams and desires. Even if you try to explain exactly what is it that you want in life, still it is next to impossible to make anybody else understand your life’s true vision. So why waste time trying to expect someone else to believe in our dreams. The moment we drop this expectation from people around us, we become strong and practical. It is extremely unscientific and impractical to expect someone else to believe in us and our dreams. Trying to explain to people your deepest desires is like banging your head against a wall, there is absolutely nothing that is going to come out of it. You have to believe in yourself and there is no other way out. This is why life is such a difficult experience. There is nothing else that makes life so challenging other than the fact that you alone are responsible for everything that happens in your life. When the strength of your inner belief reduces, you become confused and lost. Lack of personal conviction and belief in something is the root cause of all pain and suffering. Each human being is an island, cut off from everything else. All our experiences and personal visions are restricted to this island. Once in a while we can invite a few people and give them a tour of our island, but it is impossible to make them understand why our island is the way it is? Each life is so unique and different that only the experiencing self knows what it really wants. This is why it is so important to invest considerable time and energy to understand your mind, body and yourself. The more you know about yourself, the clearer your path becomes. Knowing yourself is the way to eliminate unnecessary doubts and confusions. A person who knows himself enough does not need any external support mechanism like someone else’s belief. His belief is enough. Also, knowing that you are the only person who can see your dreams makes it extremely easy to understand different and contrary opinions of people. How much of our time is wasted in trying to explain to people what is it that we exactly want? How much of pain and suffering do we experience in being rejected and ridiculed by people around us. Self-belief will put an end to all this. Self-belief removes all other false comforts and helps you to stay focused on what you want. When the necessity to please everybody drops, it becomes that much easier to focus on working towards your dreams. You will not be unnecessarily troubled by negative criticism and distractions. Most people give up on their dreams not because they do not possess the necessary skills to get to their goals. They give up because they pay too much attention to opinions of people around them. Once an individual becomes clear about what he wants and makes a firm decision to belief in it fully, then the opinions of people around won’t matter much. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of The Ahamo Movement and IASBABA.”

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 08th September 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 08th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) SAHI - India's future mobility Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Infrastructure; Transportation In news: SAHI – Safe, Adequate, Holistic Infrastructure PM Modi recommends for SAHI at Global Mobility Summit (held in New Delhi) As fuel prices soar, PM Modi’s push for public transport at global summit got attention. NITI Aayog report also called for efficient and convenient public transport to answer the twin problems of pollution and congestion. PM Modi elaborated on ‘7Cs’ for the future of mobility — common, connected, convenient, congestion-free, charged, clean and cutting-edge. Absence of good public transport system led to rapid rise in private vehicle ownership. In crux - Public transport must be the cornerstone of India’s mobility initiatives. Cow Vigilantism and Lynching: Rule 3 of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – National; Issues affecting secular character and integrity In news: Rule 3 in the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (Establishment & Regulation of Societies for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals) Rules, 2001, empowers “civil society groups” to protect animals. According to Rule 3(5) of PCA Rules, 2001 – a State can confer powers upon “any society” in district to prevent cruelty against animals. Rule 3 is providing State accreditation to cow vigilantism. Rule also providing police powers to civil society groups to stop vehicles, search premises and seize animals. Supreme Court expresses shock over this Rule. Swachh Bharat catch-up Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Government schemes and Policies; Health issue About: This October marks four years into the Swachh Bharat programme. This mission emphasized on making India an ODF (Open Defecation Free) country by the 150th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi (2nd October 2019). Key facts: Bihar is the second worst performing State, lagging behind with almost 66% coverage. Odisha, with 62.5% coverage, fares worse. In news: In order to become open defecation free (ODF), Bihar takes new route. It has given up on a model of only allowing community-based incentives for toilet construction. The State has switched to allowing individual household-based incentives. Do you know? Under the Swachh Bharat programme, States were given freedom to tweak the way the scheme was implemented. Every household building a toilet was eligible for an incentive of ₹12,000. Person in news: Hima Das In news: Hima Das, India’s newest sprint star was nicknamed ‘Dhing Express’ after the little-known town that was the cultural and literary hub of Assam till the 1950s. Hima bagged a gold and two silver medals in the recently concluded Asian Games. Assam state govt. awards ₹1.6 crore to ‘Dhing Express’. Miscellaneous India-Iran Ties: Iran to proceed with handing over the responsibility of running the port to an Indian company in a month. (India- US ties) COMCASA to help keep a watch over Indian Ocean: As a consequence of CISMOA, India will get access to Combined Enterprise Regional Information Exchange System, or CENTRIXS, which is the secure communication system network of the US. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 2 and 3 Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures. Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Indian Economy – Financial Inclusion and Inclusive Growth All about India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) Introduction: Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) IPPB will act as a financial service provider that will operate under the country’s age-old postal department. The new India Post Payments Bank can hasten financial inclusion. Benefits: The primary rationale behind the launch of IPPB is to help in the government’s goal of achieving financial inclusion, especially to the rural and unorganised sectors of the economy. (In short it will help in bringing the unbanked into the banking system). It will also help reinvigorate the postal system, which has a wide network of branches across India. (Holders of postal savings accounts are worth over ₹85,000 crore.) IPPB will also have a digital platform that is expected to make financial services more accessible even from remote locations. IIPB will also focus on providing basic payments services such as social security payments, utility bill payments and money transfers. It will also provide access to third-party financial services such as mutual funds, insurance, pension, and loan products. Do you know? IPPB has been set up as a 100% Government of India owned Public Limited Company under the Department of Posts. It will initially have 650 branches and 3,250 access points in post offices across the country. What are Payment Banks? Payments Banks are banks with the following features: They will provide a limited range of products such as acceptance of demand deposits and remittances of funds. They will not perform the function of lending money in the form of loans. These banks will have a wide network of access points particularly in remote areas. They will supplement their own network with business correspondents and even depend on network provided by others. Technology will be extensively used to add value. Important Features of IPPB: IPPB is offering 4% interest to its savings account customers. IPPB is currently not offering its customers an ATM or debit card. IPPB account holders will be issued a QR Card with a unique QR code. The QR card in an ATM since it is not an ATM card. The QR code will be used to identify India Post Payments Bank account holders through smartphones or micro-ATMs. Further, after verification using biometric data, the customer is paid in cash. According to RBI guidelines, one can hold a maximum of Rs 1 lakh in a savings account of a payments bank. Funds exceeding Rs 1 lakh in the regular savings account can be transferred to the account holder’s linked Post Office Savings Account (POSA). There is no cap on the number of withdrawals in a month. You can make unlimited deposits in a month, subject to the Rs 1 lakh limit. Cheque book facility is not available. There are no cash deposit or withdrawal charges. But for doorstep banking services, India Post Payments Bank will charge Rs 15 for digital transactions and Rs 25 for cash-based transactions. Account holders can also use the mobile banking app for checking balance, statement, bill payments and for online transfers. How India Post Payments Bank savings account differs from post office savings account? Post Office Savings Account (POSA) offer ATM facility. Cheque facility is available. (Min. balance 500rs) For non-cheque facility account, the minimum balance of Rs 50 has to be maintained. POSA offers 4% interest to account holders. At least one transaction of deposit or withdrawal in three financial years is necessary to keep the POSA active. Key challenges: Whether it can manage to earn the profits required to survive as a standalone business entity, given the severe restrictions imposed by the Reserve Bank of India on how payments banks in general can employ their funds. The first wave of new payments banks that commenced business last year — Airtel, Paytm and Fino — have not exactly set the market on fire. IPPB plans to charge nominal fees on money transfers and other financial services while investing idle customer deposits in safe government securities in order to earn interest. Whether this will be sufficient to cover interest and operational costs remains to be seen. IPPB is also likely to face stiff competition from private companies, which are generally more nimble in adapting to business realities and far more customer-friendly compared to the government-owned behemoths. Areas of Caution Two areas where a cautious approach needs to be adopted are the understanding of the business model as well as the objective of financial inclusion that they seek to achieve. However, if it succeeds, the new payments bank could usher in a new era of rapid financial inclusion across rural India. Connecting the dots: Payment Banks are the next big thing for the government’s success in financial inclusion. Comment. Highlight the hurdles in the way of their success and their integration with the existing banking system. INTERNATIONAL/SECURITY TOPIC: General Studies 2 and 3 Important International institutions, agencies and fora; their structure, mandate Defence and Security For a world free of chemical weapons Introduction The Chemical Weapons Convention Act was enacted in 2000 to give effect to the Convention on the Prohibition of the Development, Production, Stockpiling and use of Chemical Weapons and on their Destruction signed by the government on January 14, 1993. Do you know? The Chemical Weapons Convention (CWC) is a multilateral treaty that bans chemical weapons and requires their destruction within a specified period of time. CWC negotiations started in 1980 in the UN Conference on Disarmament. The convention opened for signature on January 13, 1993, and entered into force on April 29, 1997. The CWC is open to all nations and currently has 193 states-parties. Israel has signed but has yet to ratify the convention. Three states have neither signed nor ratified the convention (Egypt, North Korea and South Sudan). The CWC is implemented by the Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW), which is headquartered in The Hague. The OPCW receives states-parties’ declarations detailing chemical weapons-related activities or materials and relevant industrial activities. After receiving declarations, the OPCW inspects and monitors states-parties’ facilities and activities that are relevant to the convention, to ensure compliance. OPCW won the 2013 Nobel peace prize. Features of the Chemical Weapons Convention Act of 2000 The Act defines chemical weapons as toxic chemicals, including munitions and devices, specifically designed to cause death or other harm. The definition includes in its ambit “any equipment” specifically designed for employing chemical weapons. It empowers the Centre to set up a National Authority to act as the “national focal point” for effective liaison with organisations and other state parties on matters relating to the Convention and for fulfilling the obligations of the country. Section 19 of the Act gives full power of inspection of any person who is engaged in the production, processing, acquisition, consumption, transfer, import, export or use of any toxic chemical or discrete organic chemical. Inspections extend to any place where any chemical weapon, old chemical weapon, or abandoned chemical weapon is located, or where a chemical weapon production facility exists. The Act allows inspections teams to conduct “challenge inspections” of chemical facilities in the company of an Observer. An enforcement officer under the Act shall also accompany the team. In 2010, the Act was amended to widen the scope of Section 9 to give the Centre power to appoint any of its own officers, other than those of the National Authority, as enforcement officers. Section 16 has also been amended to provide that no person shall transfer to, or receive from, a state which is not a party to the Convention any toxic chemicals. Functions of National Authority Regulation and monitoring the development, production, processing, consumption, transfer or use of toxic chemicals or precursors as specified in the Convention, among others. Issue directions and even close down facilities which violate the Convention. It can liaise with other countries to seek or give assistance and protection against the use of chemical weapons. Conclusion: Use of chemical weapons in ongoing Syrian civil war, and Salisbury attack are some of the recent examples, which increases the importance of CWC and OPCW. This convention should be not only ratified and implemented globally but also there should be stringent international mechanism to control its violations. Connecting the dots: Use of chemical weapons in civil wars is brutal crime against humanity. Analyse the global scenario in the light of CWC. Also comment on India's measures on the line. (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 below statements: The Animal Welfare Board of India comes under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate change. Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Rules empowers “civil society groups” to protect animals. Which of the statements above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both None Q.2) With reference to Animal Welfare Board of India, consider the following statements: It is a statutory body created under Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. It can order the Central government to make a new law to prevent cruelty on Animals. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Global Mobility Summit was recently held in - Singapore India Nepal Japan   MUST READ For all that we may become: on the Section 377 verdict The Hindu  2+2 = ?: On India-US defence relationship The Hindu Punjab’s new addicts: on the rise of female drug addicts The Hindu  Rights over wrong Indian Express Clashing With Kabul Indian Express

RSTV Video

RSTV- India Post Payments Bank

India Post Payments bank Archives TOPIC:General Studies 2 and 3 Important aspects of governance, transparency and accountability, e-governance- applications, models, successes, limitations, and potential; citizens charters, transparency & accountability and institutional and other measures. Indian Economy – Financial Inclusion and Inclusive Growth In News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 1 September, 2018 launched the payments bank of Indian postal department. What is Payments Bank: A payments bank is like any other bank, but it operates on a smaller scale without involving any credit risk. Purpose: It will take banking to the doorstep of every citizen through an unmatched network of post offices and almost 3 lakh postmen and 'Grameen Daak Sewaks'. Why: Financial Inclusion still a challenge. The idea of financial inclusion, particularly in developing markets, has always met with challenges pertaining to accessibility and affordability. The RBI and the Government have tackled these challenges in numerous ways and have made substantial progress. But problems remain in reaching out to those who are most vulnerable, namely, the illiterate, low-income and rural population. As of 2017, 37 per cent of the Indian adult population remain excluded from the formal financial system; 21 per cent of those included do not actively use their bank accounts. According to World Bank’s FINDEX 2017 report, primary reasons why the unbanked chose not to transact through banks was: They do not have enough money to start banking The cost and distance from bank branches were an impediment They do not have an account because a family member already has one Lack of documentation and distrust in the financial system Will it be beneficial both ways? The existing familiarity with post offices could help them overcome the hesitation of going to bank branches and dealing with bank personnel. If rural savings begin moving into the banking system, it will hasten the shift from physical assets such as real estate and gold to financial assets. Freeing the farmers and other residents of rural India from the clutches of moneylenders will be yet another positive. Besides these, India Post, which has been recording losses due to high operational expenditure and falling revenue, will get a fresh lease of life. The real estate that is owned by India Post can be leveraged for a more sustainable revenue stream. Salient Features: India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) will be like any other bank but its operations will be on a smaller scale without involving any credit risk. It will carry out most banking operations like accepting deposits but can't advance loans or issue credit cards. Offers three types of savings accounts—regular, digital and basic. IPPB savings accounts are zero-balance accounts. The freshly-minted payments bank will Accept deposits of up to Rs 1 lakh – Open a post office savings account and link it with your IPPB account. Any balance in excess of Rs 1 lakh will be transferred to your post office account, which is a regular savings bank account. Offer remittance services, mobile payments/transfers/purchases and Offer other banking services like ATM/debit cards, net banking and third-party fund transfers. The government owns 100 per cent in IPPB, which has been set up under the aegis of the Department of Posts, and will offer products and services through multiple channels such as counter services, micro ATMs, mobile banking app, messages and interactive voice response. Is there a need to revamp India Post? The creation of the India Post Payments Bank is a good step but there is a need to revamp Indian Post services if we want India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) to achieve its desired objective - The number of post offices has come down. The employees on the rolls appears to be in line with the declining volume of business, which has come down by around 7 per cent. The handling of the savings pie has increased. It consists of small savings that is contributed more by the middle-and lower-income groups with a strong rural bias. However, here too the compound growth rate of around 6.8 per cent is much lower than bank deposits which have grown at almost double the rate. The losses of the department have increased by over nine times. The department has been running as an essential service which is primarily used by the weaker sections especially in the rural areas. As a result it becomes very difficult for the government to increase the postage rate given that it is uniform across the country. The losses have been mounting as several costs like administration, maintenance, salary, etc. move with inflation while transportation costs keep moving up more than proportionately. Therefore, with the volume of each business coming down, these fixed costs increase the cost per unit of business. The Way Forward: There is considerable scope to leverage the present strengths of India Post to not just make it financially sustainable but also maximise the utilisation of the infrastructure to link it with other goals of the government to create a virtuous cycle. But there are reforms that should be implemented for better services – The pricing structure has to be revamped as heavy losses cannot be sustained. Differential pricing based on location can be considered with the rural areas getting a subsidy. The other centres would have to be made to pay the full cost. Post office spaces should be leveraged to earn rent. As financial inclusion includes non-banking products also, these can be sold in post offices by the mutual funds or their agents. The existing staff can be trained to sell financial products like insurance and mutual funds in rural areas and a commission earned by the department. The post offices can be integrated with the eNAM initiative where terminals can be kept in these offices for use by farmers. Further, dak sewaks can be used to also form a link with the agricultural markets (eNAM) as they have direct interface with farmers and can be given the responsibility of spreading awareness as well as be the link with the market prices. Connecting the Dots: IPPB has the potential to be a game-changer in financial inclusion. Discuss.