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Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 61]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 61] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements about Battle of Haifa It is considered as one of the bravely-contested battles of World War I 15th (Imperial Service) Cavalry Brigade helped liberate Haifa from the clutches of the Turkish-German forces Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Asia–Europe Meeting (ASEM) It was officially established on 1 March 1996 at the first summit in Bangkok India joined ASEM in 2008 European Union and the ASEAN Secretariat are the regional organisations involved in ASEM Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.3) UNSC Resolution 2334 is concerned with? Resolving the constitutional crisis that followed the Gambian presidential election of 2016 United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL) United Nations Stabilisation Mission in Haiti Israel settlements in Palestine Q.4) Consider the following statements about World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) It is recognised as a reference organisation by the World Trade Organization (WTO) The World Assembly of Delegates is the highest authority of the OIE Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements about ‘FOXSI mission’ It is a sounding rocket mission It built specially to image high-energy X-rays from the Sun by directly focusing them It is collaboration between NASA and the European Space Agency Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 07th Septemeber 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 07th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) SC decriminalises consensual gay sex Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Social issue; Vulnerable Section In news: A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court unanimously decriminalised part of the 156-year-old colonial law under Section 377 of the IPC which criminalises consensual unnatural sex. The apex court struck down Section 377 as being violative of right to equality. The judgment set aside its own verdict in the Suresh Kaushal case. The Apex Court, however, said other aspects of Section 377 of IPC dealing with unnatural sex with animals and children shall remain in force. Sexual act without consent continues to be a crime under Section 377. Do you know? Section 377 discriminated against a minority based solely on their sexual orientation. It violated the right of the LGBTQ community to “equal citizenship and equal protection of laws.” Choice of a partner was part of the fundamental right to privacy. India signs COMCASA with U.S. Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International Relations In news: India and the US sealed the landmark Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) The move will lead to a new generation of bilateral military partnership. Both sides called on Pakistan to stop terrorist strikes on “other countries” and urged for maritime freedom in the Indo-Pacific region. COMCASA will facilitate access to advanced defence systems and enable India to optimally utilise its existing U.S.-origin platforms. India and the U.S. will also hold a first-ever tri-service joint exercise on the east coast of India in 2019. Do you know? India has concluded three of the four foundational agreements with the U.S. that had been planned for years. India has already signed two of them — General Security Of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) in 2002 and the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016. The GSOMIA allows sharing of classified information from the U.S. government and American companies with the Indian government and defence Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) but not with Indian private companies. Core concerns We know that - India’s core concerns are steel and aluminum tariffs levied by the US and US proposal to review the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). About GSP Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) is a preferential tariff system extended by developed countries (also known as preference giving countries or donor countries) to developing countries (also known as preference receiving countries or beneficiary countries). It involves reduced MFN Tariffs or duty-free entry of eligible products exported by beneficiary countries to the markets of donor countries. Benefits of GSP to India Indian exporters benefit indirectly - through the benefit that accrues to the importer by way of reduced tariff or duty free entry of eligible Indian products Reduction or removal of import duty on an Indian product makes it more competitive to the importer - other things (e.g. quality) being equal. This tariff preference helps new exporters to penetrate a market and established exporters to increase their market share and to improve upon the profit margins, in the donor country. For more, refer - https://www.eicindia.gov.in/Knowledge-Repository/Certification/Generalised-System-of-Preferences.aspx Role of CSIR in Disaster Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Disaster Management; Science and Technology In news: A seven-member team led by Sanjay D.Patil, senior scientist, from the Central Salt and Marine Chemical Research Institute (CSMCRI) under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) developed a mobile Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant 10 years ago, at an estimated cost of ₹1 crore. The Reverse Osmosis (RO) plant was developed for supplying drinking water to natural calamity-hit areas. The unit fitted to a bus can produce 3,000 litres of potable water an hour at an operating cost of just 60 paise a litre. Govt. grants ‘trust’ status to ‘Bharat Ke Veer’ initiative Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Role of NGO/CSOs The government has granted the status of a trust to ‘Bharat Ke Veer’, a private initiative promoted by actor Akshay Kumar, which aids families of paramilitary personnel killed in action. Contributions to Bharat Ke Veer have been exempted from Income Tax. (MAINS FOCUS) SECURITY TOPIC: General Studies 3 Security challenges and their management in border areas Various Security forces and agencies and their mandate Integrated Theatre Command: All for one, one for all? Introduction There has been much discussion in the media recently on the integrated military theatre commands. There are apprehensions that the creation of integrated commands would seriously hamper the effective application of air power, particularly because of the limited resources available with the Air Force. Do you know? Kargil committee report and Naresh Chandra Committee report focused on restructuring of higher defence organisation with an aim to improve synergy among different tools of state crafts such as bureaucracy, Military, R&D, intelligence and internal security mechanisms, etc. Through all these reports, for such synergy a regular concept emerged as Integrated Theatre Command, also known as Unified Command. An integrated theatre command envisages a unified command of the three Services, under a single commander, for geographical theatres that are of security concern. The commander of such a force will be able to bring to bear all resources at his disposal — from the IAF, the Army and the Navy — with seamless efficacy. The integrated theatre commander will not be answerable to individual Services, and will be free to train, equip and exercise his command to make it a cohesive fighting force capable of achieving designated goals. The logistic resources required to support his operations will also be placed at the disposal of the theatre commander so that he does not have to look for anything when operations are ongoing. Initial steps Moving ahead towards integrated commands without any meaningful restructuring in the higher defence organisation is premature. The initial steps should have been an integration of the Ministry of Defence and the appointment of a Chief of the Defence Staff. This would have put in place structures and practices that would encourage a jointness among the three services and perhaps pave the way in future towards integrated organisations. Differences among three Arms of military Keeping in view the character of future wars, Air force officers are opposing the idea of integrated command, considering the importance of air force. The Army and the Navy challenge this assertion with their opinions on the importance of land and sea power. The real problem lies in the fact that all three services have their own vision of how future conflicts could unfold and the primacy of their own arm in winning wars. The start point is therefore a common understanding between the services on the nature and character of wars that India could fight in the future. Nature and character of future wars According to Carl von Clausewitz, the nature of war does not change; it is the character of war that undergoes transformation. The enduring elements of the nature of war are its violent character, a clash of wills between two opponents, and political primacy. There is no war without these elements. The character of war, on the other hand, is related to how a war will be fought. This depends on our military capabilities, economy, technology, political considerations, civil-military relations, and the opponent’s aim and strategy. Political purpose will decide the start and termination of wars, and the manner in which they will be fought. The services have made their operational plans based on a proactive (cold start) strategy, with the assumption that the war will be short and swift. Maximum combat power is to be harnessed and applied across the border in a series of strikes that will rapidly degrade the military potential of the enemy. The weakness with this strategy is that it seldom takes political objectives into consideration. Examples of the recent past where military force was used or contemplated to be used by the Indian state The Kargil conflict broke out in 1999. The Pakistan Army had clearly committed an act of war by occupying territory on the Indian side of the Line of Control (LoC). While the complete military was poised to strike Pakistan by land, sea and air, the political leadership decided to restrict the conflict to only the Kargil sector and to our own side of the LoC. Only a small fraction of the Indian Amy was applied while the Air Force was restricted to bombing posts that had been occupied by Pakistan Army soldiers. Despite this, Kargil was a resounding political, diplomatic and military victory. The attack on the Indian Parliament in December 2001. Operation Parakram was launched and the Indian Army mobilised for an impending war against Pakistan. The Army remained deployed along the borders for almost one year. The Mumbai attack, November 2008 was the biggest terror strike launched from Pakistan. There was outrage in the country and calls for retaliation against Pakistan. The simple answer to why India did not immediately attack Pakistan is that after examining the options at the highest levels of government, the decision-makers concluded that more was to be gained from not attacking Pakistan than from attacking it. Lessons learned/ Way forward Apart from emphasising the need to synergise political and military objectives, another major lesson from these examples is that the importance of a military force lies in its utility to achieve the national aims, and not in the numbers of divisions, ships and aircraft squadrons. It is necessary for the three services to sit together and find realistic answers to questions of character and nature of future wars. India must be prepared for a whole range of options from non-contact warfare to a full-scale war. It is only after these discussions crystallise that we will be able to arrive at a common understanding of how future wars could possibly play out and the kind of joint structures that are required to best fight this conflict. We may not get everything right but each service extolling its own importance is not helping our ability to prepare for the future. Connecting the dots: What is an Integrated Theatre Command (ITC)? Do you think it can strengthen India’s military muscle? NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Public Distribution System; objectives, functioning, limitations, revamping; Issues of buffer stocks and food security; Science and Technology- developments and their applications and effects in everyday life. Food Grain Stocks: Steps to stop the rot Introduction India stores about 30.52 million tonnes of rice, wheat, maize, gram and sorghum in such structures at Food Corporation of India godowns and hired spaces. Most grain in India, which is procured from farmers by the government, is stored using the CAP, or cover and plinth method. Very cheap and easy to make, it is described in the preceding paragraph. There are many concerns and health hazards related to CAP storage method of FCI. A comparison In other parts of the world, grain is stored in silos. Here, stored grain is kept dry and aired so as to prevent fungal and insect attacks. When the North American mid-west came under the plough during the 19th and 20th centuries, the first thing that was done was to build large grain silos and a railway system to export the grain. Today, the U.S. has a permanent storage capacity nearly equivalent to its annual grain production. But in India, the government has considered only four silos to be sufficient for the nation’s needs — one each in Kolkata, Chennai, Mumbai and Hapur-Ghaziabad. The last one, in Uttar Pradesh, is the most modern with a storage capacity of 500 tonnes, according to a recent paper. The remainder of government-procured grain is stored in conditions so shoddy that it is estimated that there is a 10% loss of harvested grain, of which 6% (around 1,800,000 tonnes) is lost in storage. In order to export basmati rice, Punjab has, in a public-private partnership, built modern, temperature-controlled grain silos with a storage capacity of 50,000 tonnes — but this is not for the Indian market. Invitation to illness According to a World Health Organisation paper, titled “Mycotoxins”, mycotoxins, which are found in mouldy grain/foods, are associated with human disease and produce aflatoxins (cancer-causing), trichothecenes, ochratoxins, citrinin and other toxins. The paper says: “Aflatoxicosis causes abdominal pain, vomiting, hepatitis and (sometimes) death after acute exposure to high concentrations in food. Chronic low dose exposure to aflatoxin can result in impaired growth in children.” The government is aware of the deadly consequences of grain with mycotoxins. Although there are regulations in place to prevent the purchase of mouldy grain from farmers, there do not seem to be any published studies on the extent of mould infection in grain stored using the CAP method. Conclusion Given the weather conditions during the monsoon months, it is not acceptable that our foodgrains, which the public pays to procure, are stored in the open under tarpaulins. Even though foodgrain production has been encouraged and increased, there no effort being made to ensure that grain being procured annually is stored properly. There is an abundance of steel, cement and other building materials, money and the technological know-how, the government should move on a war footing to store food grains in the proper manner. Connecting the dots: India is one of the largest food grain producer countries, housing largest number of hungry people. Critically analyse the paradox. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Which of the following statements is/are true? Suresh Kaushal case deals with Section 377 Puttaswamy v Union of India case deals with Right to Privacy Choose correct answer: 1 only 2 only Both None Q.2) Which among the following is/are outcome(s) of India and US recently concluded 2+2 Dialogue? Signing of Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement. Signing of Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) Signing of three of the four foundational agreements with the U.S. that had been planned for years. Choose the correct code: 1 only 1 and 2 2 only 1,2 and 3 Q.3) Consider the following statements: India and the US have agreed to hold their first joint tri services exercise at the inaugural 2+2 dialogue. This will be the first such exercise to be carried out by India with another nation. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ For all that we may become: on the Section 377 verdict The Hindu Sexual equality affirmed: on the Section 377 verdict The Hindu  Is Punjab’s proposed blasphemy law retrograde? The Hindu Ending TB The Hindu  Freedom’s second coming  Indian Express A victory, a new battle Indian Express A nation’s moment of reckoning Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 60]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 60] Archives Q.1) Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (CSS-IDWH) consists of Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Project Tiger (CSS-PT) Development of Wildlife Habitats (CSS-DWH) Project Elephant (CSS-PE) Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements about ‘Nai Talim’ It is a principle which states that knowledge and work are not separate. An educational curriculum based on this pedagogical principle was promoted by the Mahatma Gandhi Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about ‘Hope Mission’ It is a space exploration probe mission to Mars It is set to be launched by the Brazil in 2020 Select the correct code: 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements about Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Most OECD members are high-income economies with a very high Human Development Index (HDI) and are regarded as developed countries All the members of BRICS are members of OECD Tax Information Exchange Agreements (TIEAs) was developed by the OECD Global Forum Working Group on Effective Exchange of Information Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 Only 1 and 3 1 and 2 2 and 3 Q.5) Koodiyattam, a Sanskrit theatre form performed in the state of Karnataka Kerala Tamil Nadu Andhra Pradesh To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 06th September 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 06th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) India and US: ‘2+2’ talks Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International Relations In news: Inaugural two-plus-two dialogue to be held in New Delhi. Let us understand few basics – What is the ‘2+2’ format? What is special about this round of ‘2+2’? Which other countries does the US have ‘2+2’ talks with? What issues will India and the US focus on? What is the ‘2+2’ format? It is a format of dialogue where the defence and foreign ministers or secretaries meet with their counterparts from another country. India holds such talks with select nations. With Japan and Australia, the talks are at the foreign secretary and defence secretary level. A similar dialogue with South Korea has been announced. India holds ministerial-level talks only with the US. The talks were announced when Prime Minister Narendra Modi met US President Donald Trump last June 2017 in Washington. What is special about this round of ‘2+2’? The dialogue represents an upgrade in ties, as it is seen as a platform for both sides to discuss issues of strategic importance. It is seen as an acknowledgment of India’s rise as a economic and strategic power. Which other countries does the US have ‘2+2’ talks with? Apart from India, the United States holds such ministerial dialogues only with Australia and Japan. What issues will India and the US focus on? The focus will be on possible US sanctions on India, if it does not cut down import of Iranian crude oil and Russian defence equipment. Other issues likely to be discussed are efforts to boost IndoPacific cooperation, finalizing a pact on encrypted defence technologies, terrorism, the Trump administration’s decision to make changes in the H1B visa programme and co-development of military platforms. Core concerns between India and the US Trump administration has sought formal commitment of additional purchases of $10 billion annually for the next three years India has a surplus of $23 billion in trade with America, and the U.S. wants to wipe that off by forcing more imports by New Delhi. India’s core concerns are steel and aluminum tariffs levied by the US and US proposal to review the GSP. (We shall cover about GSP tomorrow) Pic:https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/09/06/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_01/9deba70d_2371405_101_mr.jpg Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/09/06/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_11/2a0c3670_2371451_101_mr.jpg Gutkha scam Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III and IV – Indian Economy and associated issues; Anti-corruption & Bribery in India; Ethics In news: CBI searches houses of T.N. Ministers and police chiefs in connection with the gutkha scam. It is alleged that they had received bribes from a leading gutkha manufacturer to allow the sale of the banned tobacco products in Chennai. Do you know? Laws and Provisions in India to tackle Corruption Indian Penal Code, 1860 The Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 – PCA The Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Act, 1988 India and the United Nations Convention against Corruption 2003 (UNCAC) - provides for international co-operation and mutual legal assistance in investigating cases of corruption and recovery of assets. India signed the UNCAC in December 2005. Prevention of Money Laundering Act 2002 (Article 23 of the UNCAC) - PMLA Foreign Exchange Management Act 1999 – FEMA Right to Information Act 2005 – RTI Cases referred by the Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) and the Chief Vigilance Officers (CVOs) of other Government Departments Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the state Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) Freezing, Seizure and Confiscation of Properties – The Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance, 1944 (Article 31 of UNCAC) Creation of an independent ombudsman (the Lokpal and the Lokayuktas) - to investigate and prosecute cases of corruption by Public Officials (including Ministers) Service Rules of Government Officials Foreign Contribution Regulation Act, 2010 – FCRA Companies Act 2013 Black Money (Undisclosed Foreign Income and Assets) and Imposition of Tax Act, 2015 Even in 4th century B.C., ‘Corruption’ had been a key theme as reflected in Kautilya’s Arthashastra, an ancient Hindu treatise on statecraft, economic policy and military strategy penned during the time. Role of CCI and ‘unfair pricing’ of private hospitals Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III and IV – Indian Economy and associated issues; Ethics In news: Competition Commission of India (CCI) widens probe into ‘unfair pricing’ by Delhi pvt. Hospitals. CCI has directed its investigative arm, the Director General, to probe into alleged violation of provisions of Section 3 and 4 of the Competition Act, 2002, relating to imposition of unfair prices by private super-speciality hospitals. According to DG, Huge profit margins are being earned by sale of products to the locked-in in-patients to the detriment of such patients. Important Value Additions Role of Competition Commission of India (CCI) CCI is a statutory body of the Government of India responsible for enforcing The Competition Act, 2002 throughout India and to prevent activities that have an appreciable adverse effect on competition in India. Goal of CCI is to create and sustain fair competition in the economy that will provide a ‘level playing field’ to the producers and make the markets work for the welfare of the consumers. Competition Act – The Act prohibits anti-competitive agreements, abuse of dominant position by enterprises and regulates combinations (acquisition, acquiring of control and M&A), which causes or likely to cause an appreciable adverse effect on competition within India. SC extends compensation plan to minor rape survivors In news: Supreme Court ordered that minor survivors of rape or sexual assault will get compensation on par with women victims. The apex court extended to minor children the National Legal Services Authority’s (NALSA) compensation scheme for women rape and sexual assault survivors. The NALSA scheme would be made applicable to minor victims from October 2 until the Centre frames compensation guidelines under the POCSO. Important Value Additions: Compensation Scheme for Women Victims/Survivors of Sexual Assault/Other Crimes-2018 It is scheme, proposed by the National Legal Services Authority, for compensating victims of sexual assault and acid attack. Supreme Court has now extended the scheme to make it applicable to child victims of such assaults. About the scheme: As per NALSA’s scheme, victim of gangrape in any part of the country would now get a minimum compensation of Rs 5 lakh and up to a maximum of Rs 10 lakh. Similarly, in case of rape and unnatural sexual assault, the victim would get a minimum of Rs 4 lakh and maximum of Rs 7 lakh as compensation. The scheme also says that victim of acid attacks, in case of disfigurement of face, would get a minimum compensation of Rs 7 lakh, while the upper limit would be Rs 8 lakh. In acid attack cases, if the injury was more than 50 per cent, a minimum compensation of Rs 5 lakh would be given, while the maximum would be Rs 8 lakh. Misuse of office/power Part of: GS Mains Paper IV – Ethics In news: Former IPS officer Sanjiv Bhatt arrested in connection with a 1996 narcotics case in which a Rajasthan-based lawyer, Sumer Singh Rajpurohit, was allegedly framed. Bhatt, who was then Banaskantha DSP, had arrested a man over possession of 1 kg of drugs. A probe later revealed that the man was falsely implicated to compel him to transfer a disputed property. Miscellaneous: Typhoon Jebi hit Japan west coast 34% Indians not active enough: WHO – Insufficient activity puts people at greater risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and dementia. Ambitious action on climate change could contribute an extra $26 trillion to the world economy by 2030. Dynamic action on climate could also generate “over 65 million new low-carbon jobs” by 2030 and avoid over 7,00,000 premature deaths due to air pollution. (According to International Experts) Quote in news: Voltaire’s quote –  “I may disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” The above quote can be used in topics dealing with - free flow of ideas in a democracy; Right to freedom of speech and expression; Essay and Ethics answers. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Constitution, Social justice Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. GS Paper 1 - Essay The nature of dissent Introduction Recent arrests of activists in certain states of India, started a debate on importance of Dissent in Democracy. General trait of Dissent or disagreement Disagreeing with each other is a fundamental human trait. There is not a single individual who does not disagree with something or the other all the time. Philosophers argue that a baby meaningfully attains its sense of the self — its recognition of ‘I’ and the concept of ‘mine’ — when it first begins to say ‘no’. At a primordial level, we become individuals only through this act of stating our disagreement. There is no family without dissent between parents and the children, or between the siblings. A family which learns to deal with dissent rather than authoritatively dismissing it is a more harmonious family. A way of being We dissent at home, with our friends and with our colleagues in the places we work. It is through these ways of dissenting that we establish a relationship with them. Our relations with our friends and family are based as much on how we learn to live with our disagreements as on other things. If our friends and family consist only of those who agree with us all the time, then we will not have any friends and family. Learning to live with others, the first requisite for a social existence is about learning how to live with them when they disagree with us. Dissent is so ingrained in us that we don’t even need others to disagree. We argue with our own selves all the time as if each one of us is an individual made up of many selves. Social dissent and Democracy Dissent is thus a condition of existence and the real problem is not dissent but silent assent. When we agree collectively, we are silently assenting, agreeing with what is being said and done. This is really not the existential characteristic of a human being but only that of a ‘bonded mind’. However, some might say that assent is the way societies come together, and it is needed for a stable society. But this is plain wrong. We will have a stronger identity of what our society and nation are through forms of dissent. Dissent, paradoxically, is the glue which makes a decent society possible. A group made up of people who agree to everything all the time is not really a society but an oligarchy. A mature society is one which has the capacity to manage dissent since members of a society will always disagree with each other on something or the other. No society has survived without making changes to what was present earlier. New knowledge and new ways of understanding the world, for good or bad, has always been part of every society. Democratic societies are the best of the available models in managing dissent with the least harmful effect on the dissenter. This is the true work of democracy; elections and voting are the means to achieve this. Dissent is progressive in nature Academics and research are two important activities where dissent is at the core. Many new ideas arise by going against earlier established norms and truths. Science, in its broadest meaning, is not possible without dissent since it is by finding flaws with the views of others that new science is created. No two philosophers agree on one point, and no two social scientists are in perfect harmony with each other’s thoughts. Artists are constantly breaking boundaries set by their friends and peers. Buddha and Mahavira were dissenters first and philosophers next. The Ramayana and Mahabharata are filled with stories of dissent and responsible ways of dealing with it. Thus, when academics dissent, it is part of their job expectation to do so! Dissent is not just about criticism, it is also about showing new perspectives. The scientific community does not imprison scientists for dissenting, so do the same applies to social scientists and artists. They should not be targeted in the name of dissent. Why Dissent is necessary? It is not that dissent is necessary only for democracy — it is necessary for the survival of the human race. Any society which eradicates dissent has only succeeded in eradicating itself. We cannot afford to forget the examples of Nazi Germany or Stalinist Russia. A sustainable, harmonious society can only be formed from practices which deal with dissent respectfully and ethically. Ethics of dissent There are two ethical principles associated with dissent. First, its relation to non-violence (Satya Graha), a principle which is so integral to the unique Indian practices of dissent from ancient times to Gandhi and Ambedkar. Second, dissent is an ethical means of protecting those who are worse off than others (Gandhi's Talisman). Dissent is not mere complaint which all of us, however privileged we are, indulge in. Social dissent is a necessary voice for all those who are oppressed and are marginalised for various reasons. This is the only thing they have in a world which has denied them the basic dignity of a social life. This is the truly ethical principle that can sustain a mature society. Thus, when we hear the voices of dissent from the oppressed and the marginalised, it is ethically incumbent upon those who are better off than them to give them greater space and greater freedom to dissent. Conclusion Dissent and disagreement is part of human nature, suppressing it may lead to destruction of society and democracy. Connecting the dots Write an essay; "For Democracy to succeed, Dissent is a key" Note: For better understanding, read this article along with, "Protecting the Dissenters", mains focus, IASbaba current affairs, 4 September 2018. NATIONAL/DISASTER MANAGEMENT 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 Environment and Disaster Management Addressing soil loss Introduction As the rains abate in Kerala and parts of Kodagu district in Karnataka, the loss of lives and the devastation of infrastructure and crops is apparent. However, as rebuilding is planned, what is often ignored is the soil that has been washed away. While roads and houses will be rebuilt, and crop losses compensated partially through insurance, the gradual loss of soil productivity can have a lasting impact on the local economy. Soil degradation due to flooding is a serious concern. A 2014 review of soil degradation in India by multiple institutions shows that an estimated 14 million hectares suffer soil degradation due to flooding annually. The impact of floods on soil was also studied in detail following the 2009 floods in North Karnataka, Which caused the loss of thousands of crore. Researchers from the National Bureau of Soil Survey and Land Use Planning (NBSS&LUP) and other institutes estimate that 13 flood-hit districts lost 287 million tonnes of top soil and soil nutrients across 10.75 million hectares of farmland. Under market prices, the replacement of nutrients such as nitrates, phosphates and iron would have cost Rs. 1,625 crore, while another Rs. 853 crore would have been spent on replenishing organic material lost. To recover and replace the lost would take a long time, and a steadfast programme of recovery. Nine years later, there is no comprehensive scheme for recovery, and the effect of the floods is still visible on the ground. A soil profile of a few affected districts, done under the State’s integrated watershed scheme, shows large swathes of these areas having “shallow or very shallow” soil depth, organic carbon deficiency, and low productivity of land. In the case of Kerala and Kodagu, the undulation and force of the water would have led to severe soil and land erosion. Soil, which has taken thousands of years to form through natural processes and through recent inputs by farmers, is being swept away, to be dumped in reservoirs or in the sea. Soil, a blessing from floods Not all floods are bad for the soil, as seen in the oft-occurring floods along the banks of the Ganga, Kosi, Brahmaputra and other rivers taking birth in the Himalayas. There, the gushing river emanating from the mountains carries with it loosened alluvial soil (Khadar), and not only washes over farmlands, but also replenishes flood plains with fertile soil. Conclusion Soil erosion has grave impact on economy of the affected area. Thus there is a need for Disaster Management in India to take this issue into account. Assessment of Soil and environment degradation should be part of Relief and Rehabilitation under the framework of Disaster management. Connecting the dots: The Disaster management in India fails to take into account the Soil and Environment degradation, and predominantly focuses on construction and rehabilitation. 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 about Compensation Scheme for Women Victims/Survivors of Sexual Assault/Other Crimes-2018 It is scheme announced by the Centre in 2013 after the December 16, 2012 gangrape and murder case in Delhi to support the initiatives on women’s safety across the country. The scheme is for compensating women victims of sexual assault and acid attack. Choose the correct answer: 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following about Central Bureau of Investigation: The CBI was initially setup to investigate cases of bribery and corruption during World war-II. The jurisdiction of the CBI extends only over Central government Employees. The agency comes under the jurisdiction of Department of Personnel and Training. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 3 1 and 2 2 and 3 1,2 and 3 Q.3) To check corruption and redress citizens’ grievances in India which of the following are included in the existing legal and institutional framework? Railway Services (Conduct) Rules, 1966 Anti-corruption bureaus in states Parliament and its committees Central Bureau of Investigation, 1963 Which of the above statements are true? 2, 3 and 4 only 2 and 4 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.4) Match the following: Tropical Cyclones Place of Occurrence 1.     Typhoons a) North Western Australia 2.     Hurricanes b) Guinea lands of West Africa 3.     Tornadoes c) China Sea 4.     Willy-Willies d) West Indian Islands in the Caribbean Choose the correct codes from the below given options: 1-c,2-d,3-b,4-a 1-a,2-b,3-c,4-d 1-c,2-b,3-d,4-a 1-a,2-c,3-b,4-d Q.5) With regard to the objectives of the Competition Commission of India, consider the following statements. To prevent practices having adverse effect on competition. To prevent monopolistic activities and to promote oligopolistic cartels. To protect the interests of consumers. To ensure freedom of trade. Which of the above options is/are correct? 1, 2 and 3 only 2, 3 and 4 only 1, 3 and 4 only All the above Q.6) Consider the following statements about Competition Commission of India (CCI) It is a quasi-judicial body. It is responsible for enforcing Competition Act, 2002 throughout India. It works to protect the interests of consumers. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ All for one, one for all? The Hindu Steps to stop the rot The Hindu An assault on the right to privacy The Hindu  Why Dalits want to hold on to Dalit Indian Express Will you tell me who I am? Indian Express  

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 59]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 59] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements about ‘Coffee Krishi Tharanga’ It is an IVR based Digital Mobile Extension Service aimed at maximizing the reach of the Board’s services to increase productivity and environmental sustainability It is jointly developed by Coffee Board and Precision Agriculture for Development India Foundation (PADIF) Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about ‘IOWave18’ It is a major Indian ocean-wide tsunami mock exercise. It is organised by the Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) The ‘kafala system’ governs Marriages Water sharing between GCC countries Public assassination Migrant Labourers Q.4) The ‘Khanjar’ an annual joint military exercise is held between India and Kazakhstan Turkmenistan Kyrgyzstan Uzbekistan Q.5) Partha Mukhopadhay Committee is concerned with Migrants Digital Economy Education Health To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 05th September 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 05th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Extremist right-wing fringe organisations on rise? Part of: GS Mains III – Internal Security In news: Four thinkers – Narendra Dabholkar, Govind Pansare, M.M. Kalburgi and Gauri Lankesh — were killed in Maharashtra and Karnataka between 2013 and 2017. Investigations have found that an unnamed group, some of whose members have been associated with the right-wing Hindu outfit, are behind these killings. Investigations have identified over 60 recruits, who were radicalised and trained to use firearms. This is an army of highly radicalised youth, trained in arms, to “protect Hindu Dharma”. Examples of such Extremist right-wing fringe organisations – Sriram Sene, Hindu Yuva Sene, Shivapratishthan Hindusthan and recently formed gaurakshak samitis. GM mustard and GEAC Part of: Prelims and Mains III – GM Crops; Agriculture; Science and Tech; Biodiversity and Environment In news: Environment ministry and GEAC to decide on field-trial approvals for the controversial transgenic mustard developed by the University of Delhi’s Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants (CGMCP). CGMCP had applied to grow transgenic mustard (Dhara Mustard Hybrid, DMH -11) in plots in Delhi and Punjab to test the plant. GEAC had initially cleared the GM crop for “commercial cultivation”, however later backtracked and demanded more tests and additional data on honeybees and other pollinators and on soil microbial diversity. About GEAC GEAC is the apex regulator of genetically modified crops and transgenic products. GEAC is constituted in the Ministry of Environment and Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) under ‘Rules for Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms/Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells 1989’, under the Environment Protection Act, 1986. GEAC is responsible for approval of activities involving large scale use of hazardous microorganisms and recombinants in research and industrial production from the environmental angle The GEAC is also responsible for approval of proposals relating to release of genetically engineered organisms and products into the environment including experimental field trials (Biosafety Research Level trial-I and II known as BRL-I and BRL-II) Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) negotiations Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – International; Multilateral organizations; Indian Economy In news: RCEP, 16-nation group, accepts some key demands from India: on differential tariff regimes for different country groups like China, and in allowing a 20-year implementation period of the agreement. Another key area where India scored was in establishing a linkage between services and goods negotiations, given that some countries were not as welcoming of allowing movement of labour. Do you know? RCEP includes 10 ASEAN nations + India, China, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Korea. Of the 16 countries that have been negotiating for the RCEP, India does not have Free Trade Agreements with three countries — Australia, New Zealand and China Person in news: Justice Ranjan Gogoi Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra recommends Justice Ranjan Gogoi as his successor and the 46th Chief Justice of India. CJI Misra has followed convention by recommending the next senior most Supreme Court judge, Justice Gogoi, as his successor. Jalaluddin Haqqani Haqqani network founder - Jalaluddin Haqqani – dies Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/09/05/CNI/Chennai/TH/5_14/8b52c348_798b873e_101_mr.jpg Miscellaneous Google to help EC track political ads After Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, an orphanage for girls in eastern Assam’s Sivasagar is under the scanner for alleged sexual exploitation of its minor inmates. Japan to test mini ‘space elevator’ - It’s the world’s first experiment to test travel between two mini satellites in space. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Social issue; Governance, Constitution, Polity, Social Justice(Social Services related to Education and Human Resources) Still too many children out of school Introduction: Education is the right of every child guaranteed by Indian constitution; also it is part of social justice. Objective of universal education will only be fulfilled if sincere efforts are made by the States under the guidance and prodding of a committed Centre. Do you know? The Directive Principles of State Policy mandate the state to provide children the right to access education (Under Articles 41, 45, 46). The 86th constitutional amendment Act of 2002 (inserting Article 21A under fundamental rights) and the RTE Act of 2009 dictate its implementation. Official Data: How Far it to be reliable? The official numbers of out-of-school children in India are either out of date or contradictory. According to the 2011 Census, the number of out-of-school children in the 5-17 age group was 8.4 crore. According to a survey commissioned in 2014 by the Ministry of Human Resource Development, the number of out-of-school children in the 6-13 age group was only 64 lakh. This is a gross underestimation. It is quite unlikely that the number of out-of-school children came down so drastically from 2011 to 2014, especially given that there were no significant changes in objective conditions, warranting such a miraculous reduction. Most recent estimates A study on the basis of the 71st round of the National Sample Survey (NSS) carried out in 2014 and taking into account the 6-18 age group, out-of-school children in this age group were more than 5 crores in the country, which is 16.1% children of this age group. The proportion of out-of-school children was higher in rural India (17.2%) than in urban India (13.1%). In rural areas, the proportion of out-of-school girls (18.3%) was higher than of boys (16.3%). The proportion of children from Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) was the highest, followed by Other Backward Classes (OBCs). Among religious groups, the proportion of Muslims was as high as 24.1% in rural areas and 24.7% in urban areas. There are seven states, Odisha, UP, Bihar, MP, Rajsthan, Gujrat and West Bengal, where nearly one fifth of the children of 6-18 age group, are out of the school. Kerala, Goa, Sikkim, Himachal Pardesh and Tamil Nadu are the states where out of the school children are less than the national average. Frequent and Common Reasons for dropping out of school: The most important reason for boys to drop out of school was to take up jobs to supplement the family earning. For girls, it was the compulsion to participate in household work. There is also a prejudice against educating girls that is prevalent in India. An important reason for drop-out is the socio-economic conditions of the parents of the children. Therefore, calls for a more comprehensive approach that is not reflected in the RTE Act. The most important social reason for drop-out is a lack of awareness of the importance of school education. According to the RTE Act and the Child Labour (Prohibition and Regulation) Amendment Act, these out-of-school children fall under the category of child labour. It is, therefore, not surprising that the largest number of child labourers in the world is in India. What can be done to bring more children to school? We would not have been confronted with this high proportion of drop-outs if all the provisions of the RTE Act had been implemented within the time limit prescribed in the Act (latest by April 2015). The Act provided for the availability of a school at a distance of 1 km from the residence of the child at the primary level and 3 km at the upper primary level. Until an adequate number of schools at the prescribed distances from the children’s homes become available, it would be necessary to provide secure modes of subsidised travel to schools, particularly for girls. If all the infrastructure facilities prescribed in the Act would have been put in place, another reason for drop-out (environment not friendly) will disappear. Another important provision which ought to have been included in the RTE is financial support to poor parents, adequate to enable them to send their children to school. Conclusion: The RTE aimed to provide a framework for private schools to supplement the efforts of the state to uplift disadvantaged sections of society through the means of education. We need to act immediately to address the gaps in the implementation of the law. The future of our children depends on it. There is need to create awareness of the fact that education is now a legal fundamental right. Ironically, education is the most important instrument for creating this awareness. Thus, education is a quintessential example of being vested with intrinsic as well as instrumental value being both the means and the end. Connecting the dots: Even after a decade of enactment of Right to Education Act, 2009, we have not achieved objectives in terms of quantity as well as quality. Critically comment. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2  India and its neighbourhood- relations Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests BIMSTEC Summit: Green shoots of revival Introduction Fourth BIMSTEC summit is going to held this week at Kathmandu, Nepal. Basic aspects about BIMSCTEC has been covered in Mains Focus of 30 August 2018 IASbaba DNA. There some positives which this summit is going to contribute in the progress of BIMSTEC and also there are some concerns which needs to be taken care for further developments. The Positives: The work begins now on drafting a charter for BIMSTEC, which has functioned so far on the basis of the Bangkok Declaration of 1997, and outcomes of the past three summits and the Leaders’ Retreat in 2016. A Permanent Working Committee will be set up to provide direction during the period between two summits and also to prepare the Rules of Procedure. The Secretariat has been promised additional financial and human resources and enhancement of its role to coordinate, monitor and facilitate the grouping’s activities. As the institution has been handicapped due to lack of financial muscle, the leaders took the decision to establish the BIMSTEC Development Fund. A push to increase its visibility and stature in the international fora will also be made. Recognising that 16 areas of cooperation represent too wide a spectrum, the BIMSTEC governments will make a serious endeavour to review, restructure and rationalise various sectors, identifying a few core areas. In this exercise, Thailand has proposed a new strategy of five pillars (viz. connectivity, trade and investment, people-to-people contacts, security, and science and technology). This will be considered, although the difficulty in dropping specific sectors dear to individual member-states should not be minimised. Concerns As to the debit side of the balance sheet, it should be noted that of at least six legal instruments awaiting finalisation, only one, the Memorandum of Understanding on Grid Interconnection, could be inked in Kathmandu. Fourteen years after signing the framework agreement on Free Trade Area (FTA), final agreement is yet to be signed. The Thai Prime Minister bravely urged participants to accept making BIMSTEC a Free Trade Zone by 2021 as “our common goal”, but this did not find a place in the summit declaration. The Myanmar President pointed out that the grouping had established its Energy Centre in 2009, but it is waiting for operationalization. India rightly emphasised that “the biggest opportunity is connectivity — trade connectivity, economic connectivity, transport connectivity, digital connectivity, and people-to-people connectivity.” Every participant dwelt on the advantages and potential of connectivity. The Kathmandu Declaration has spelt out a number of measures, old and new, to secure this objective. However, the Motor Vehicle Agreement and the Coastal Shipping Agreement would still need more time for finalisation. BIMSTEC summit is not an annual or regular affair. Probably the timing of the next summit will be determined by the degree of progress ministers and officials achieve in the coming months. If the grouping succeeds in holding its next summit in 2019, it will be seen as a healthy sign. Other facets Plans to revitalise the Business Forum and the Economic Forum should be welcome if they help in fully engaging business and industry. Cooperation in the security domain has been progressing satisfactorily, with a new instrument added to the arsenal: a meeting of home ministers. This will be in addition to annual meetings of national security advisers and the first meeting of army chiefs, which is due to take place in Pune this month. Also envisaged is a sound plan to establish forums for parliamentarians, universities, cultural organisations and the media community. The summit articulated a vision for the Bay of Bengal Region heading towards a peaceful, prosperous and sustainable future. The region is now widely viewed as a common space for security, connectivity and development. Conclusion Think tanks are fond of advising governments that they should walk the talk. But the Nepalese Prime Minister and the summit chairman asserted: “Now is the time not just to deliberate, but also to deliver. Now is the time to translate promises into performance.” If this prescription is followed by all, BIMSTEC can become a dynamic, effective and result-oriented organisation. Connecting the dots: Though there are many prospects and challenges, BIMSTEC is a natural choice for India. 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) The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee is constituted under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999 Environment (Protection) Act, 1986 Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) It is under the Ministry of Science and Technology It is the apex body for approval of activities involving large scale use of hazardous microorganisms and recombinants It is responsible for approval of proposals relating to release of genetically engineered organisms and products into the environment including experimental field trials Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 All of the above Q.3) Consider the following statements about Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) It is associated with ASEAN All the members of RCEP are members of Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) Cambodia is the only land-locked country among RCEP members Select the INCORRECT statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 Only 2 Q.4) Which of the following countries is NOT a part of Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)? Myanmar Japan Bangladesh Singapore Q.5) Which of the following countries is/are NOT a part of RCEP? India Russia China Japan Select the appropriate option using the code below 2 only 1 and 4 only 2 and 3 only 2 and 4 only MUST READ Routes to Afghanistan: on 2+2 talks The Hindu ‘Drugs are not sweets’ The Hindu Addressing soil loss The Hindu  Where interests meet Indian Express   Dissent Is Democracy Indian Express Make India Vishwaguru again Indian Express  Re-imagining the university Indian Express Teacher vs System Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 58]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 58] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements about ‘Kanthasth’ It is aimed at making the learning of Hindi language easier It is developed by the Ministry of Home Affairs Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Which of the following countries was the top source of foreign direct investment (FDI) into India in 2017-18? Singapore Mauritius Seychelles United Arab Emirates Q.3) Consider the following statements about ‘Krishna Kutir’ It has been developed by the Ministry of Women and Child Development under the 'Swadhar Greh' scheme. It is developed to mitigate the plight of widows living in pathetic condition in Vrindavan. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Transformative Carbon Asset Facility (TCAF) was launched by? World Bank UN-Environment Green Climate Fund (GCF) Vulnerable Twenty (V20) Q.5) What is/are the purpose/purposes of Government's 'Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme' and 'Gold Monetization Scheme'? To bring the idle gold lying with Indian households into the economy To reduce Indian's dependence on gold imports Both (a) and (b) Neither (a) nor (b) To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 04th September 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 04th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Swachh Iconic Place - Ajmer dargah Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I - Conservation of Heritage sites and  monuments In news: Ajmer dargah is included among the Swachh Iconic Places, a clean-up initiative focused on iconic heritage, spiritual and cultural places through a multi-stakeholder approach model. MoU signed to give facelift to Ajmer dargah - Ajmer Municipal Corporation and Hindustan Zinc to spend ₹5.68 crore to clean and manage the shrine. In Ajmer, the Collector will act as the project’s nodal agency with the Dargah Committee and ‘khadims’ (workers) being the primary stakeholders. The campaign was initiated under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in 2016. Important Value Additions: Ajmer dargah - is a 13th-century Sufi shrine of sufi saint, Moinuddin Chishti. (located in Rajasthan) The Dargah Committee, appointed by the Government, takes care of the maintenance of the shrine. Do you know? The Swachh Iconic Places - project envisioned by the Prime Minister is being coordinated by Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation with the support of State governments and local administration. Bal Gangadhar ‘Lokmanya’ Tilak Part of: GS Prelims and Mains I – History; Role of freedom fighters and their contributions In news: Of late there have been heated arguments over – who organised the first public festivities? — the 19th century physician Bhau Laxman Javale or freedom fighter Bal Gangadhar ‘Lokmanya’ Tilak. According to our books, in 1893, the Indian freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak praised the celebration of sarvajanik Ganesha utsav in his newspaper, Kesari, and dedicated his efforts to launch the annual domestic festival into a large, well-organised public event. It is unclear when the festival started, it became a major social and public event with sponsorship of Shivaji after Mughal-Maratha wars, and again in the 19th century after public appeal by Indian freedom fighter Lokmanya Tilak, who championed it as a means to circumvent the colonial British government ban on Hindu gatherings through its anti-public assembly legislation in 1892. NECTAR and Green Gold: Bamboo Part of: GS Prelims and Mains Paper III – Agriculture sector (Indian Economy) In News: In Union Budget 2018, government had allocated a whopping Rs 1,290 crore to promote the bamboo sector — through restructured National Bamboo Mission (NBM). Government also removed bamboo grown outside forest areas from the definition of trees. However there are some concerns whether all these efforts help to achieve $10 billion market potential of bamboo. Concerns: Failure of National Mission on Bamboo Application (NMBA), National Bamboo Mission (NMB) and North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) Department of Science and Technology (DST) had in 2004 launched the National Mission on Bamboo Application (NMBA) with an outlay of ₹200 crore. NMBA failed. NMBA neither developed any technology nor facilitated technology transfer. ₹1,400-crore National Bamboo Mission (NMB) also failed from 2007-2014 Even related initiative called the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) has also failed. NECTAR is an autonomous society registered and headquartered in Shillong with a fund allocation of ₹292 crore. However, even after five years of its creation, NECTAR yet to shift to Shillong headquarters (from New Delhi). The entire team that made NMBA a failure was rehabilitated in NECTAR without any responsibilities being fixed. NECTAR functioned under DST and no proper functioning. About NECTAR The Central government had in 2013 approved the creation of an autonomous society registered and headquartered in Shillong with a fund allocation of ₹292 crore. The society was called North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach. Key pointers: Northeast part of India grows 67% of India’s bamboo. India has the world’s largest fields of bamboo. It grows on nearly 13% of the country’s forest land. The eight North-eastern States – Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Sikkim and Tripura – grow 67% of India’s bamboo and have 45% of global bamboo reserves. Nearly 35 species of superior quality bamboos are found in the region. Do you know? Centrally Sponsored Scheme of National Bamboo Mission (NBM) is now under National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) Department of Agriculture & Cooperation (DAC) under Ministry of Agriculture is implementing a 100% Centrally Sponsored Scheme called Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) in which National Bamboo Mission (NBM) is being implemented as a sub scheme. Animal in news: Indian Roofed Turtles Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III - Conservation of Biodiversity and Animal About: Indian Roofed turtle – got its name because of the peculiar shape of its shell (carapace). It is a part of the Asian river turtle family, Geoemydidae. It is most commonly found in Southeast Asia (India, Bangladesh). It is locally known as the Kori Kaitta. IUCN – Least Concern Pic: http://www.kidzone.ws/animal-facts/turtles/images/roofed01.jpg In news: Indian Roofed Turtles are usually found in temple ponds and were struggling to survive due to the pollution caused by devotees throwing oil, incense sticks, flowers and other ritual offerings into the small waterbody. Innovative idea helps revive these turtles – through tapping religious sentiments of devotees An idol of Vishnu in his Kurma (turtle) avatar was installed at the temple complex (Lota Devi temple, West Bengal), therefore devotees can place their offerings near the idol rather than directly polluting the pond. India – Russia ties: Logistics agreement Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – International Relations India and Russia are in the process of concluding a logistics agreement The proposed agreement follows a series of such agreements India has signed since the first logistics agreement with the U.S. We already know that - India signed the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Understanding (LEMOA), with the U.S. in August 2016 after a decade of negotiations. Since then it has concluded several such agreements with France, Oman, Philippines, Singapore and for access to the Sabang port in Indonesia. Australia too has sent a draft agreement. Do you know? Logistics agreements are administrative arrangements facilitating access to military facilities for exchange of fuel and provisions on mutual agreement simplifying logistical support and increasing operational turnaround of the military when operating away from India. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/09/04/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_11/5e771632_2367594_101_mr.jpg Miscellaneous India and Cyprus signed two agreements on combating money laundering and cooperation in the field of environment. @ Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) - China offers $60 bn aid to Africa - to boost industry, counter hunger and enhance security. China proposed Africa to tap new multilateral lenders such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), the New Development Bank (NDB) of the emerging economies, as well as the Silk Road Fund (marshalled by China). (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/HEALTH TOPIC: General Studies 2 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health  General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Indigenization of technology The need for growth in Indian biosimilars Introduction (Background) Due to a soaring demand for generic drugs, India’s pharmaceutical producers emerged as world market leaders in this sector and were a major business success story in the 2000s. In the process, Indian producers made a valuable contribution to reducing costs and to expanding access to life-saving treatments for patients, both in emerging markets and in developed countries. Emerging challenges Globally, and especially in developed countries, waves of consolidation among pharma retailers, stiffer competition from Chinese pharma manufacturers and wider acceptance of generic drug applications have combined to put downward pressure on drug prices. India’s stock market has reacted quite negatively to these developments, wiping nearly 20% off the value of Indian pharma stocks between August 2016 and August 2018. Given these adverse headwinds, it is imperative that India’s pharmaceutical manufacturers create new markets to restore market confidence in their growth prospects. Some positive moves There is a new push to produce more so-called complex generics. These are hybrid medicines that often contain complex active pharmaceutical ingredients (the part of the drug that produces its effects) or formulations, or routes of delivery. Things are still at an early stage in this segment but the signs are promising, with Indian firms having succeeded in capturing 19% of the global market in complex generics thus far. Another, they would be well-advised to pursue is to expand their footprint in the biosimilars market. Biosimilars are the generic versions of biologics medicines made from animal or plant proteins as opposed to chemicals. Biologics are notable for targeting the underlying causes of diseases as opposed to just the symptoms, with fewer side effects. Biologics are important market disrupters because they are transforming how we treat diseases, including certain types of cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis. The growth in the biosimilars market is welcome from a human development standpoint because they are more affordable than biologics, the high cost of which often puts them out of reach of many patients. While it is encouraging to see Indian firms beginning to ramp up biosimilars production, there is a lot of room for additional growth. Biosimilars currently account for just $5 billion of the $240 billion global market in biologics. Non-communicable diseases There is an alarming spike across developing countries in the prevalence of non-communicable diseases. To take one example, diabetes is fast becoming an epidemic in developing countries, with rates rapidly catching up with those of the developed world. In India also, with 69 million diabetics in 2015, a number projected to exceed 100 million by 2030, according to the World Health Organization. The number of diabetics across the South-East Asia region, which includes Bangladesh, India, and Indonesia, rose more than fivefold between 1980 and 2014, WHO has reported. Therefore, promoting the production of complex generics and biosimilars can have a positive development impact given how targeted they are toward treating non-communicable diseases such as cancer, asthma, and arthritis. Way forward Governments can support growth in production of complex generics and biosimilars by clarifying the regulatory framework for them, which is still evolving in many countries. China is a recent example, where the government has identified biopharma, including biosimilars, as a priority area for the country. Biosimilars, like biologics, require a large investment outlay both because of the high cost of product development and regulatory compliance, and the significant amount of time it takes to bring a product to market. For private sector, partnerships can make for a more cost-efficient pipeline. For example, it is often in manufacturers’ best interest to forge partnerships with contract research organisations that have the scientific expertise to develop that specific product, and such other partners. They can partner up with companies that are specialised in commercialising and marketing these products and have acquired the know-how to meet the regulatory requirements. There are many ways that partnerships can be structured but the bottom line is that new business models that increase patients’ access to innovative and cost-effective treatments should be encouraged. Conclusion It is increasingly clear that the segment of the pharmaceutical market where we will see demand grow the fastest in the coming years is products that treat non-communicable diseases. We should, therefore, strive to promote strong, indigenous producers of complex generics and biosimilars as this has enormous potential to improve public health in emerging markets. Connecting the dots: Write a brief not on Role of India in global pharma market. Give an overview of opportunities and challenges ahead. NATIONAL/HEALTH TOPIC: General Studies 2 Indian Constitution- significant provisions 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 Protecting the dissenters Introduction: Recent arrest of activists has started Political debate on right to dissent and right to ask questions on grounds of state accountability. India’s constitutional democracy is predicated on the people’s right to call state power to account. Do you Know? Right to Dissent The Supreme Court observed that “dissent is the safety valve of democracy”. Therefore, Right to dissent, right not to agree becomes very important aspect of any democratic institution The citizens’ have right to disagree with, denounce, and decry a situation or state of affairs that is unjust and oppressive. This pluralism of views and liberty to express any thought process within constitutional boundaries is one of the salient features of a democracy. Recently, while hearing a petition on the ban of protest on the Jantar Mantar in New Delhi, the SC held that Right to peaceful protest is the fundamental right guaranteed under the constitution. This particular right is also subject to reasonable restrictions in the interest of sovereignty and integrity of India, as well as public order. A distinguishing feature of any democracy is the space offered for legitimate dissent, which cannot be trampled by any executive action. Thus, the Court recognises that legitimate dissent is a distinguishable feature of any democracy. Also observed that, every individual or a group of individuals, whether they are minority or poor or marginalised, have the right to express their dissent to the government policies and fight their social circumstances. Protest strengthen representative democracy by enabling direct participation in public affairs where individuals and groups are able to; Express dissent and grievances Expose flaws in the governance Demand accountability from state authorities as well as powerful entities Article 19 Freedom of speech The constitution under Article 19(1)(a) provides for freedom of speech and expression and also under Article 19(2) provides for reasonable restrictions on such freedom. Like other fundamental rights, it is not absolute and is subject to; Sovereignty and integrity of India Security of the state Friendly relations with foreign states Public order Decency or morality or in relation to contempt of court Defamation or incitement to an offence Hate Speech Law commission of India in its 267th report on “hate speech” suggested adding new provisions to make speech inciting hatred and speech that causes fear, alarm or provocation of violence, a criminal offence under Indian Penal Code (IPC). Hate speech is an expression which is likely to cause distress or offend other individuals on the basis of their association with a particular group or incite hostility toward them. In order to protect this group from discriminatory attitude and practices, it is necessary to curb such forms of expressions that have the potentials of inciting fear, hatred or violence and such speeches must be regulated by law. Hate speech can be curtailed under Article 19(2) on the grounds of public order, incitement to offence and security of the state. Sedition Section 124A of IPC defines sedition as “whoever by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representations, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring hatred, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the government established by law in India, shall be punished for imprisonment for life. The disaffection includes disloyalty or all feelings of enmity.” In the kedarnath singh vs State of Bihar 1962, a constitutional bench ruled in favour of thee constitutional validity of Section 124A (sedition) in the IPC, but said that- a person could be prosecuted for sedition only if his acts caused “incitement to violence or intention or tendency to create public disorder or cause disturbance in public peace”. Comments expressing disapprobation of the measures of the government, with a view to obtain their alteration, without exciting or attempting to excite hatred, contempt or disaffection, do not constitute an offence of sedition. Conclusion: The course of democracy anywhere in the world is defined by events that test the resilience of democracy and also add to it. The philosophy of dissent and democracy has also inspired our freedom movement and defines India’s constitutional democracy, which is predicated on the people’s right to call state power to account, albeit within the constitutional framework. Connecting the dots: What do you understand by sedition? Critically comment on the way the courts have interpreted the Section 124(A) of the penal code. (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 Swachh Iconic Places Swachh Iconic Places campaign was initiated under the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in 2016. Ajmer dargah is included among the Swachh Iconic Places. The Swachh Iconic Places - project envisioned by the Prime Minister is being coordinated by Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) Which of the following statements about Bal Gangadhar Tilak is/are correct? He founded the Fergusson College in Pune. He was part of the extremist faction of Indian National Congress. He was associated with the Hindu Mahasabha. Select the correct answer using code below 1 and 2 Only 2 1 and 3 1,2 and 3 Q.3) Which of the following was termed as the ‘Green Gold’ in the Budget 2018-19? Bamboo Electric Vehicles Tendu tree Bonds issued to mobilize funds for Green energy projects Q.4) As per Indian law, Bamboo is taxonomically a Grass Tree Shrub Weed Q.5) Consider the following statements Bamboo is called as poor man’s timber. Nearly 35 species of superior quality bamboos are found in North-eastern States. India has the world’s largest fields of bamboo. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 2 only 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.6) In Union Budget 2018, government had allocated a whopping Rs 1,290 crore to promote the bamboo sector. The fund will be spent mainly through which among the below scheme – National Mission on Bamboo Application (NMBA) Green Gold Mission (GGM) Restructured National Bamboo Mission (NBM) North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR) Q.7) Consider the below statements with respect to National Bamboo Mission: It is under National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) It is under Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) The Mission is expected to bring more than 100000 ha area under plantation during the period 2018-19 & 2019-20. Which of the statements above is/are correct? 1 only 3 only 1 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ  Green shoots of revival: on BIMSTEC summit The Hindu Still too many children out of school The Hindu When the levee breaks The Hindu  Why rupee fall remains a worry Indian Express  Higher mountains to scale Indian Express

AIR

All India Radio (AIR) : Ease of Doing Business in India

Ease of Doing Business in India ARCHIVES TOPIC: General Studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Listen to the Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx Ease of doing business: This index is an aggregate figure that includes different parameters which define the ease of doing business in a country. Report: ‘Doing Business 2018: Reforming to Create Jobs’, by World Bank India’s Rank: Leapfrogged to 100th among 190 countries India has jumped over 30 ranks to attain 100th spot from 130th position in 2017 Ease of Doing Business Index. Its score also increased from 56.05 in 2017 to 60.76 in Doing Business 2018 Ease of Doing Business Index Indicators: Starting a business Dealing with construction permits Getting electricity Registering property Getting credit Protecting minority investors Paying taxes Trading across borders Enforcing contracts Resolving insolvency Each one of these indicators carry equal weightage. New initiatives by the government: The SPICe form merges 5 processes — PAN, TAN, DIN, Company Incorporation and Name Reservation – into a single application. Trading across Borders ranks at a low 146. The WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA), which India has actioned, encouraged reforms in the area Initiatives including the shift to paperless compliance system, enhanced customs clearances under the integrated Risk Management System, encouragement to Direct Port Delivery and development of an effective Port Community System, have helped lower transaction costs for exports as well as imports and would be reflected in the next ranking. Registering property is witnessing many administrative changes, especially at the state level. States are defining clear timelines for processing applications for land allotment, adopting a model sale deed format for property registration, and enhancing the efficiency of land banks. Many states have introduced Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and digitised land records across departments. To improve ranking, there must be additional effort in strengthening our weakest areas: Dealing with Construction Permits (181/190) States have aimed to reduce time and costs for obtaining building and construction permits and introduced the provision of deemed approvals. To expedite the building plan approvals, inspections are being integrated and made risk-based. b) Enforcing Contracts (164/190) - Enforcing Contracts has suffered owing to lack of a well-defined system for dispute resolution. National Judicial Data Grid is being introduced which serves as a monitoring tool to identify, manage and reduce pendency of cases. Several states have established dedicated Commercial Courts at the district level to ensure speedy resolution of commercial disputes and have published model contract templates. They are also implementing e-Courts, entailing facilities such as e-cause lists, e-payments, e-filing and e-summons. Starting a Business (156/190) Supply side reform is important – focussing on the micro regulatory regime — such as making it easy to start or close down business. It is here that India still has a lot of ground to cover, as local entrepreneurs would testify. The World Bank report flags the areas where the country lags — local entrepreneurs need to go through 12 procedures to start a business in India’s commercial capital, which is way higher than many high-income economies, besides cumbersome procedures for construction permits, registration of property and enforcement of contracts. Institutional Challenges in the Indian system Mismatch between the intent of reforms and quality of actual enforcement and transparency on the ground, — the governance challenge A high level of discretion still exists with the officer enforcing rules on the ground. Aggravated by the lack of a time-bound grievance redress mechanism, and the absence of independent ‘auditors’ who monitor on-ground enforcement quality and ensure there is accountability for poor decisions made in the field. Design challenge: Procedures are often designed to cater to the few instances of failure or non-compliance and not for efficiency and facilitation. Management challenge: There is a tendency to blame poor quality of government services on lack of infrastructure or human resources. This often over-looks the fact that there are many examples of better services with effectively less resources. The Way Ahead: While we can truly be proud of the extent of India’s macro-policy reforms, it is time we started to focus on the micro-policies of enforcement. Top down macro reforms can only be effective if they are twinned with bottom-up micro reforms. Unless the day-to-day experience of doing business improves, we will continue to under-perform relative to our true potential. To secure changes in the remaining areas will require not just new laws and online systems but deepening the ongoing investment in the capacity of states and their institutions to implement change and transform the framework of incentives and regulation facing the private sector. India's focus on 'doing business' at the state level may well be the platform that sustains the country's reform trajectory for the future Must Read: Link 1 + Link 2 Connecting the Dots: While the government deserves credit for the impressive improvement in the Doing Business rankings for 2018, it should not lose sight of the distance India still needs to cover. India has no other way but to improve its ‘ease of doing business’ scenario, if it’s most important manufacturing campaign ‘Make in India’ has to be successful. Elucidate. What do you understand by ‘ease of doing business’ index? Why so much significance is attached to this index? What are the parameters that determine the index? Discuss.

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 57]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 57] Archives Q.1) ‘Chola Naikar’ tribe is found in Odisha Kerala Manipur Mizoram Q.2) ‘Brow-antlered Deers’ are found in which of the following countries? Cambodia Myanmar India Select the correct code: 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 2 and 3 3 Only Q.3) Consider the following statements about ‘Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis’. It selectively affects motor neurons, the cells that control voluntary muscles of the body. It is characterized by stiff muscles, muscle twitching, and gradually worsening weakness due to muscles decreasing in size. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements about ‘Chitosan’ It is found in the shell of crab, shrimp and also in the cell wall of fungi. It is among the biological adsorbents used for heavy metals removal without negative environmental impacts It is useful in bandages to reduce bleeding and as an antibacterial agent Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 Q.5) Tinkhatia system is associated with Bardoli Satyagraha Ahmadabad Mill Strike Kheda Satyagraha Champaran Satyagraha To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba