IAS Baba

Sep 16, 2018 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Present Moment – Inspirational Educative Articles

Present Moment: It is so easy to get distracted and be lost in some unwanted thought process. If only we can clearly understand how easy it is to get lost in some random and useless thought process, most of what we do will change immediately. Just at the very moment of realizing that most of our thinking is simply unwanted and repetitive, a new way of looking at things will emerge. We all can without any doubt agree that our minds simply have no definite purpose of their own. The purpose of our mind changes moment to moment depending on our moods, emotions and physical condition. If only our minds had some definite purpose in life, we didn’t have to struggle so much finding our true identity in this chaotic world. Relying on our mind to show us the right way is like relying on a blind man to find our way out of the confusion of life. The more we become simply attached to our thought process and desires, the lesser we will be certain about who we are and what our real purpose is. There is another dimension of intelligence apart from thinking. We have totally ignored this dimension. There is tremendous intelligence in being in the present moment. Present moment is filled with intuition, awareness and some kind of cosmic intelligence that has the ability to point our lives in the right direction. No need to get all spiritual and other worldly to understand the importance of being in the present moment. Just a pure scientific way of looking at things will help us to understand the importance of being in the present moment. Everything in existence is in the present moment except for man. This is why he is so much in pain and suffering. When we move away from the present moment and begin to drift into the past and future of our thought process, we are stepping away from our home. How can there be any comfort to the one who has travelled very far away from home and has lost his way. There is no respite for us till we find our way back to the present moment. Our thinking has to be only one part of our life. There has to be a nurturing of intuitive intelligence through which we can understand emotions, effects of time and space around us, effects of people and places and so much more which can never be grasped by our thoughts. Without finding our way to this intuitive intelligence we will always be lost, constantly searching for meaning and purpose. Each one of us is born with this intuitive intelligence. Each one of us has the ability to access this dimension within us; all we have to do is give more importance to being in the present moment than to being lost in some random thought process. Life is a beautiful experience only in the present moment. Everywhere else, it is a pure torture. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of The Ahamo Movement and IASBABA.”

Sep 15, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 15th September 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 15th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Welfare panels cant evaluate dowry complaints: SC Part of: Prelims and Mains GS II - Social issues In News The Supreme Court modified its earlier order on setting up family welfare committees to look into cases of dowry harassment. Section 498-A IPC It is a cognisable and non-bailable offence. A guilty person faces up to three years in prison and shall also be liable to fine. 2017 Order The court had ordered ‘family welfare committees’ to be set up in the districts. These committees, composed of eminent citizens, were supposed to act as a vanguard against “disgruntled wives” using the anti-dowry harassment provision of Section 498-A of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) as a “weapon” against their husbands and in-laws, young and old, rather than a “shield.” Even the police could register an FIR only after the committee cleared the complaint as valid and not frivolous. SC had raised this concern over abuse of the anti-dowry law and had also said that no arrest “should be affected” without authenticating allegations as a violation of human rights of innocents can’t be swept aside. Current Judgment A bench led by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra withdrew the court’s direction from July 2017 The judges accepted that such a committee would create an extrajudicial entity not envisaged in the Code of Criminal Procedure. They also decided to remove another guideline that gave a district judge the power to dispose of proceedings if the parties in a case reach a settlement. Such a power in a non-compoundable provision such as Section 498A exclusively belongs to the High Court, the top court held It restored to the police their power to immediately register an FIR and act on a dowry harassment complaint filed by a married woman. It further says a designated police officer should be there to probe dowry complaints. It ordered the Director General of Police of every State to provide such officers rigorous training. Hindi Divas Part of: Prelims and mains GS I- CULTURE In news It is celebrated on 14 September because on this day in 1949, the Constituent Assembly of India had adopted Hindi written in Devanagari script as the official language of India. Do you know? Hindi’s Popularity in other countries Fiji: The island country in the South Pacific Ocean is the only other country, apart from India, where Hindi is designated as an official language. The migration of the language to Fiji can be traced back to the late nineteenth century, when it became a British colony and when the colonial authorities needed imported labour in order to sustain the sugarcane industry there. Today, about 37 per cent of Fiji’s population consists of Indians, a large majority of whom are the descendants of indentured labourers from India. Mauritius: The island nation on the Indian Ocean passed on as a colony from the Dutch to the French to the British over the course of three centuries. Indian presence in Mauritius can be traced back to the time when it was a Dutch colony and a large number of slaves and convicts were brought in from Bengal and South India. The trend followed during the French colonial period as well. With the British occupying the island in 1810 and the indentured labour system being established from the 1830s in order to meet the requirements of the sugarcane industry, Indian presence in Mauritius entered a whole new period. National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) study on AIDS Part of: Prelims and mains GS II- Health services and issues In news According to figures released by National AIDS Control Organisation (NACO) it said it would not be an easy battle to end the disease as there are still around 21.40 lakh people living with HIV in India, with the prevalence among adults stood at 0.22 per cent. Pic: https://www.thehindu.com/todays-paper/tp-national/z28wf5/article24951089.ece/alternates/FREE_660/14-bindu-HIVAIGT84MBSUJ1jpgjpg Why is this study important? The objective of HIV estimations is to provide updated information on the status of the HIV epidemic in India at the national and State/Union Territory level. Estimations of adult HIV prevalence, annual new infections (HIV incidence), AIDS-related mortality, and prevention of mother-to-child transmission (PMTCT) needs are produced as outcomes of HIV estimations. The modelled estimates are needed because there is no direct reliable way of measuring these core indicators, which are used to track the epidemic monitor and evaluate response around the world What does the report say? This epidemic is high in some geographical regions and population groups The report has noted that the rate of decline in annual new HIV infections has been relatively slower in recent years The impact of the HIV/AIDS control programme has been significant, with more than an 80 per cent decline in estimated new infections from the epidemic’s peak in 1995. Some statistics There were around 87,000 new HIV infections and over 69,000 AIDS-related deaths (ARDs) in 2017. Around 22,675 mothers needed Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) for prevention of mother-to-child transmission of HIV. India’s 2017 figures also do not show a significant positive shift from 2015, the previous year for which when such a survey had been carried out. In 2015, India had reported 86,000 new HIV infections. Of these, children (<15 years) accounted for 12 per cent (10,400) Remaining (75,000) were adults (15+ years). In 2015, the total number of people living with HIV in India was estimated at 21.17 lakh, while the same figure was 22.26 lakh in 2007. Way ahead There should be no place for complacency as the country aims to achieve the ambitious goal of ending AIDS in India by 2030. Doklam final report lauds government Part of: Mains GS II- INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS In news A report by the parliamentary panel on External Affairs, headed by Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, has lauded the efforts of Narendra Modi Government for the overall handling of the Doklam crisis by standing up against china but has expressed concern that Chinese infrastructure built close to the India-Bhutan-China tri-junction has not been dismantled Extracts from report The Army’s reaction to the crisis was laudable but Indian diplomacy failed to measure up to the task The panel appreciated the “brave and timely” action of security forces for checking the PLA troops from continuing with their road construction. The Committee is concerned about the multiple reports which allude to Chinese presence around Doklam plateau and the statements from Chinese authorities about chances of similar happenings in future also, even after the stand-off ended Suggestions The panel said the Indian government should not take the Chinese lightly at any point and continue to monitor the Chinese activities along the border in general and the area in particular very intensely. It also suggested that military infrastructure, especially the roads on the Indian side, need to be improved. There is also an urgent need for high-technology gear to prepare our security forces to respond befittingly. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Constitution, Democracy, Governance and issues related to it Polity; India and the world Government policies and issues arising Performing moderately: the state of democracy in South Asia, especially India Introduction Today, the world celebrates the 11th International Day of Democracy (15 September) in pursuance of a UN resolution. Rise of Democracy The world saw a huge wave of democratisation after World War II. The newly-liberated states in Latin America, Africa and Asia adopted democratic forms of government after centuries of colonial subjugation. Today more people live under various forms of democracy than ever before. More than 120 of the 192 countries in the world have some form of democracy — only 11 parliamentary democracies existed in 1941. This indicates the appeal of democratic ideas and systems. Current challenges Despite the democratic upsurge, there are significant challenges like poverty, inequality, gender injustice, nepotism and corruption. Elected despots and authoritarian leaders are weakening democracies across the world. Political experts have argued that democratic values are on the decline, especially in the West. People are losing faith in democracy because of corruption, nepotism and unemployment. This often leads to people disengaging with key public policy issues, which in turn makes those in power less accountable. Transparency in political processes, accountability of elected representatives, basic freedoms for all citizens, equal rights for women and minorities and high rates of voter participation are the things which contribute to the popularity of democracies. Study of state of democracy The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), an inter-country organisation, tried to evaluate the state of democracy in the world in the light of such worrying claims. The Global State of Democracy Index (GSoD) looks at the trends in democratisation from 1975 to 2017. With the help of a set of 98 indicators, IDEA aims to study the factors which threaten democracy throughout the world and those that make it strong and resilient. The study covers a variety of important indicators such as representative government, fundamental rights, checks on the government, impartial administration and participatory engagement. These have many sub indicators for an in depth indices-based analysis. Democracy in South Asia South Asia is home to 3 per cent of the world’s area and 21 per cent of the world’s population. It’s significant that 50 per cent of the world’s population living under some form of democratic rule resides in this region. When it comes to representative government, India and Sri Lanka have maintained relatively high scores. Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and Pakistan have had periods of non-elected regimes. The general trend in South Asia in this respect has, however, been positive. With respect to ensuring fundamental rights, the region’s score matches that of Asia Pacific but it is slightly below the global average. At the country level, Afghanistan and Nepal have seen the most improvement. Sri Lanka and Pakistan saw a slight decline in the 1970s and 1980s. India’s score has been stable since the late 1970s. However, a decline has been observed since 2015. South Asia shows a steady improvement on the yardstick that measures gender equality with Nepal standing out. India’s score was better than the world average till 2003 but there has been a dip in the country’s performance on the gender equality yardstick since then. When it comes to checks on government, South Asia has shown a steady increase from 1975 to 1994. Afghanistan, Nepal and Pakistan have shown the most improvement. Bangladesh, India and Sri Lanka have remained relatively stable with scores in line with the global average. In the yardstick on impartial administration, South Asia follows both the regional and global trends with no significant change, except in Nepal, which has seen a significant improvement. However, the “absence of corruption” sub-indice within the “impartial administration” category shows a worrying tendency in South Asia. The region has the lowest scores in the world despite a slight improvement between 2012 and 2015. A robust civil society is essential for deliberative decision making. Civil society participation has increased in India by leaps and bounds between 1978 and 2012 after which it declined drastically to fall below the average of Asia Pacific and that of the World. In 2017, it was the lowest since 1975. In 2017, the gap between the Indian score and the world average in the yardstick that measures “personal integrity and security” was the widest since 1977. This is worrying. In the past 10 years, South Asia’s scores for electoral participation are in line with the global average but slightly below the Asia Pacific average. Recently, there has been a decrease in voter participation in Bangladesh but a slight increase in India and Sri Lanka. Democracy in India The GSoD report analyses India’s performance on all the above-mentioned indicators and shows that the country has done moderately well. On yardsticks such as elected government, effective parliament and impartial administration, the country’s scores hover around the world average. In the last decade, there has been a significant dip in the country’s record on civil liberties, personal integrity and security, freedom of association, media integrity, gender equality and basic welfare. India’s performance on the yardstick to measure media integrity was better than the global and South Asian average between 1994 and 2012. However, the country’s score has fallen below the global and Asia-Pacific average in 2017. Given that a free and fair media is crucial to a meaningful democracy, this is a worrying tendency. The Election Commission has played an important role in conducting free and fair elections in the country. The Commission’s Systematic Voters Education for Electoral Participation Programme role has been crucial in this respect. An independent judiciary is another reason for the resilience of democracy in India. The apex court has given judgments that keep a check on the government and ensure a transparent and accountable system. Conclusion Democracy does not merely mean voting rights for people, it means empowering people by granting them equality. It also means the creation of mechanisms to resolve differences through dialogue and with mutual respect and understanding. India does have the highest rating among South Asian democracies. But its performances on several yardsticks makes it a flawed democracy. If we want the largest democracy to count among the world’s greatest, there must be serious introspection among all stakeholders. Connecting the dots: India is world's largest democracy but there is much more to be done to become world's greatest democracy, Comment. NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Constitution, Democracy, Governance and issues related to it Polity; India and the world Government policies and issues arising The Supreme Court trans-formed Introduction The decriminalisation of homosexuality in the Navtej Johar judgment holds special relevance for transgender rights. Not only was Section 377 used disproportionately against transgender persons, the legal battle also took a new and positive turn from 2014 after the Supreme Court recognised the right to gender identity in NALSA v. Union of India . Step by step When the Supreme Court in 2013 passed the Koushal judgment, overturning the Delhi High Court judgment reading down Section 377 in Naz v. Union of India 2009, the LGBTQ community faced a huge setback. The silver lining was that the LGBTQ movement on the ground was growing rapidly, with social acceptance for LGBTQ concerns increasing. Transgender persons continued to be the most marginalised and vulnerable group within the community. They were routinely arrested and harassed by police, sexually abused, and had to bear the brunt of criminal threats as they were on the streets forced into begging and sex work. This changed with NALSA. In 2014, a bench of Justices K.S. Radhakrishnan and A.K. Sikri passed a judgment holding that transgender persons have the constitutional right to self-identify their gender as male, female or transgender even without medical re-assignment. The Supreme Court held that the rights to life, dignity and autonomy would include the right to one’s gender identity and sexual orientation. NALSA judgment immediately gave new grounds and new hope, to revive the Section 377 challenge. In 2016, two fresh petitions were filed under Article 32 of the Constitution: the first by Navtej Johar and others, and the second by Akkai Padmashali, Umi and Sana, three transgender activists from Karnataka. Both petitions urged the Supreme Court to reassess the constitutionality of Section 377. This was also the first time that transgender voices were before the Supreme Court. In 2017 came another big judgment in Puttaswamy v. Union of India , in which the Supreme Court said that there is a constitutional right to privacy inherent in the right to life, equality and fundamental freedoms. It went on to hold that the right to privacy specifically includes the right to have intimate relations of one’s choice and the right to sexual orientation and gender identity, and that the Koushal judgment was incorrect. After Puttaswamy , more petitions and interventions were filed against Section 377. Finally, the Supreme Court, in a five-judge Bench led by the Chief Justice of India, unanimously held in Navtej Johar that Section 377 was unconstitutional to the extent that it criminalises consensual relationships of any kind between adults, and overruled Koushal. Different minorities The most far-reaching contribution is the elaboration on the right against non-discrimination on the basis of sex, guaranteed in Article 15 of the Constitution. The Supreme Court confirmed that as held in NALSA, ‘sex’ under Articles 15 includes discrimination on the ground of gender identity. It went even further to say that discrimination on the grounds of ‘sex’ would also include discrimination due to sexual orientation or stereotypes. This means that being gender non-conforming or not adhering to society’s ‘norms’ of gender roles, which is the main reasons for violence against trans persons, be it in the way you dress, speak or behave, cannot be a ground for discrimination. This inclusion of discrimination on the ground of sex stereotyping will go a long way in dismantling gender stereotypes not just for the LGBTQ community, but also for women. Conclusion The impact of the Navtej Johar decision is unprecedented.The ‘Navtej Johar’ judgment has created the conditions to dismantle gender biases in diverse ways. Justice D.Y. Chandrachud recognised that Section 377 had consigned a group of citizens to the margins and was destructive of their identities, and held that lesbians, gay, bisexual and transgender persons have the constitutional rights to full and equal citizenship and protection of all fundamental rights. In this way, with the Navtej Johar judgment, the court has gone far beyond the anti-sodomy judgments from around the world that were referred to it. By recognising these twin aspects of gender identity and sexual orientation, the court acknowledges the voices of the most vulnerable sexual minorities within the LGBTQ community and takes the stand that the Constitution protects the rights of all. Connecting the dots: Supreme Court verdict on Section 377 is a landmark judgement but it also will spark many more challenges to inequality, discrimination. 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) Section 498A of IPC has been in the news for quite some time for its increasing misuse. It deals with which of the following cases? Domestic violence Sedition Anti-National Activity Martial Law Q.2) Family Welfare Committee was in news related to To control population via family planning. A formal committee in each ward of urban local body to oversee implementation of government health schemes. Committee to look into complaints of dowry harassment set up by District Legal Services Authorities. Committee to oversee the functioning of primary health center. Q.3) Antiretroviral therapy (ART) is concerned with AIDS/HIV Virus Tuberculosis Blood Cancer Leprosy MUST READ India’s shrinking democratic space The Hindu Beyond recompense: on the ISRO spy case The Hindu Power games: on issues in the power sector The Hindu We, the chokers Indian Express The Ungoverned Land Indian Express Performing moderately Indian Express About false promises Indian Express

Sep 15, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 14th September 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 14th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Government announces measures to stabilize rupee Part of: Prelims and GS III- Indian Economy In News The Government announced a series of measures to boost market confidence, curb the widening current account deficit which touched 2.4% of gross domestic product and stabilize the rupee. Details To attract more Foreign Portfolio Investors (FPI) into the corporate debt market, the government has said it will review a couple of restrictions on their investments. So, the condition that FPIs’ investment in a single corporate entity cannot exceed 20% of its corporate bond portfolio will be reviewed. The condition that FPIs cannot invest more than 50% of an issue of corporate bonds will also be reviewed The government will review the mandatory hedging condition for infrastructure loans borrowed under the external commercial borrowing (ECB) route. Presently there is no compulsion on borrowers to hedge these loans. Manufacturing companies borrowing up to $50 million through ECBs will be able to do so only for a one-year term as against the three-year term allowed earlier. Masala bonds will be exempted from withholding tax this financial year and Indian banks will be allowed to become market makers in masala bonds including by underwriting. Masala bonds are rupee-denominated instruments issued abroad by Indian borrowers. The advantage of these bonds is that any depreciation in the rupee will not affect the borrower. The government will take necessary steps to cut down non-essential imports and increase export. SC questions ‘leprosy-free’ tag for India Part of: Prelims and mains GS II- Health services and issues In news Supreme court questioned the leprosy free tag and said the country was declared leprosy-free on December 31, 2005, the reality is “entirely different” in reference with reports of the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) which said only 543 districts of the total 642 districts in the country had achieved the World Health Organisation-required prevalence rate of less than one case of leprosy for 10,000 persons. Details The underestimation of cases of leprosy and the declaration of elimination of leprosy has resulted in the integration of leprosy in general health services thereby leading to diversion of funds which would have otherwise been dedicated to eliminating leprosy, Concerns Patients and their families continue to suffer from leprosy and its stigma. They are denied their fundamental right to food. They are not issued BPL (Below Poverty Line) cards to claim the benefit of various welfare schemes such as the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY). They are deprived of housing, basic civic amenities, adequate sanitary facilities and rehabilitation programmes. Constitutional Principles Violated Majority of the populace afflicted with leprosy live as a marginalised section in society, deprived of even basic human rights. This manifestly results in violation of the fundamental right to equality under Article 14 and right to live with dignity under article 21. Human Development Index (HDI) Part of: Prelims and mains GS II & III- Social development and Economic development In news HDI was released by the United Nations Development Programme with the findings indicating a glaring inequality in the country though “millions have been lifted out of poverty”. Details The HDI is the composite measure of every country’s attainment in three basic dimensions: Standard Of Living measured by the gross national income (GNI) per capita Health measured by the life expectancy at birth Education levels calculated by mean years of education among the adult population and the expected years of schooling for children. Stats with reference to India India ranks a low 130 out of 189 countries The UNDP report stated that with an HDI value of 0.64 compared to 2017’s 0.636, India is categorised as a medium human development and that its rank rose one spot compared to the 2017 HDI. According to the 2018 findings, between 1990 and 2017, India’s HDI value increased from 0.427 to 0.640, an almost 50 per cent increase, which is an indicator that millions have been lifted out of poverty. At the same time, in what signals the glaring inequality in the country, the HDI value declines by more than a fourth when adjusted for inequality. The value of India’s Inequality-adjusted HDI (IHDI) falls to 0.468, a 26.8 per cent decrease, far worse than the global average decrease in the global HDI value due to inequality at 20 per cent. Do you know? In reference to Women Empowerment The report notes that in India women hold only 11.6 per cent of parliamentary seats Only 39 per cent of adult women have reached at least a secondary level of education as compared to 64 per cent men. India’s worst performance on the gender scale is with regards to its female participation in the labour market which is 27.2 per cent compared to 78.8 per cent for men even as globally 49 per cent women are part of the labour force as compared to 75 per cent men. India performs better than its neighbours Bangladesh and Pakistan, ranking 127 out 160 countries on the Gender Inequality Index Other Countries Norway at 0.95 has been ranked the highest on the HDI scale Followed by Switzerland, Australia, Ireland and Germany Niger is the bottom at 0.35. Central African Republic, South Sudan, Chad and Burundi have the lowest scores The greatest increase in HDI rank over the last five years is by Ireland This is followed by Turkey The worst decline was seen in conflict-hit countries of Syria, Libya, and Yemen. Person in News: Justice Ranjan Gogoi is next CJI of India In news: As the 46th Chief Justice of India, Justice Gogoi will have a tenure of about 13 months, till November 17, 2019. Justice Ranjan Gogoi is the first person from the Northeast to claim a top position in the Supreme Court. The President of India has appointed Justice Ranjan Gogoi (the most senior judge in the Supreme Court) as the next Chief Justice of India. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education, Human Resources Government schemes and Policies An education that is in sync Introduction Higher education in India has grown exponentially in recent years. A survey by the All India Survey on Higher Education published in July this year shows that the gross enrolment ratio (GER) was 25.8% in 2017-18, up from 10% in 2004-05. What is GER? GER is the ratio (expressed as percentage), of the total enrolment within a country in a specific level of education, regardless of age, to the population in the official age group corresponding to this level of education. GER and issues of higher education India For higher education, the survey calculates the ratio for the age group 18 to 23 years. Internationally, the age group 18 to 22 is also used. For India, the Survey gives the corresponding figure as 30%. The GER for higher education in India is still less than what it is in developed countries, the growth rate is still quite impressive. The next step is to ensure that the outcome of academic programmes by higher education institutes (HEIs) is acceptable. The debate in the media on higher education is often focussed on issues related to governance and autonomy. There needs to be a debate on other important issues, including the content of higher education in HEIs. Radhakrishnan Commission Report (RCR) (1948-49) Just after Independence, a commission comprising educationists from India, the U.K. and the U.S., and chaired by Dr. S. Radhakrishnan, was formed “to report on Indian University Education and suggest improvements and extensions that may be desirable to suit present and future requirements of the country”. The RCR recommended a well-balanced education with ‘general’, ‘liberal’ and ‘occupational’ components. Without all-round general (including liberal) education, one could not be expected to play roles expected of a citizen outside one’s immediate professional sphere. It advocated that general and specialised education should proceed together. The study of languages should be given equal importance as one communicated to the outside world only through the medium of language. Therefore, a lack of communication skills could be a handicap. The RCR drew inspiration from the emphasis on general education in universities in the U.S. It cited a lecture by Einstein (1931) where he said: “The development of general ability for independent thinking and judgement should always be placed foremost, not the acquisition of special knowledge…” The American parallel The National Academies Press (NAP) of the U.S. which represents the national academies of sciences, engineering and medicine published the report, “The Integration of the Humanities and Arts with Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine in Higher Education: Branches from the Same Tree”. According to the NAP’s report, the purpose of higher education is to prepare graduates for work and life, as well as active and engaged citizenship. This can be achieved only through the acquisition of knowledge, skills and competencies related to the profession they chose to specialise in and also written and oral communication skills, ability to work as a team, ethical decision making, critical thinking, and ability to apply knowledge in real world settings. Significance of RCR and NAP Philosophical deliberations in the RCR report that are related to the content of higher education are still relevant today. Both the RCR and NAP reports attach the importance to the integration of Sciences, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine and humanities in university teaching. The RCR, in turn, talked about including general education as an essential element. But the NAP report goes much beyond what the RCR states and advocates integrating the teaching of humanities in STEM. Why inter-disciplinary approach is needed? Problems in a real-life setting are interdisciplinary and require an appreciation of related fields. The NAP report acknowledges that disciplinary specialisation has resulted in many developments but also points out that emerging problems are multi-disciplinary. This can be seen in examples: rising demand for energy, and continuing advances in technology. The use of energy on a large scale and the continued availability of energy in an environmental-friendly manner are challenges which cannot be addressed by narrow specialists. There are technical advances every day, influencing everyday life in diverse ways. This is also leading to concerns about privacy, technology-driven social and workforce changes, and the evolving need for individuals to retrain themselves to remain in employment. In such a scenario, it is important that professionals study the impact of innovations on society in a holistic manner. Scene in India Higher Education Institutions are far from integrated. As far as the inclusion of elements of general education in the curriculum for undergraduates is concerned, the situation is mixed. Several engineering, and science education and research institutes have embedded general education programmes at the undergraduate level. Such programmes are missing in most university-affiliated science colleges. Rather, there are institutions that cater to a single stream which precludes the possibility of even an informal interaction between students and faculty with different specialisations. Conclusion The concept of general education and specialised education proceeding together needs to be widely adopted in India. The focus of undergraduate education should be on classical disciplines, with enough credits for general education. Focus on specialisation can wait until the post graduate level. In 1959, C.P. Snow spoke about “The Two Cultures”. It is time to bridge the divide between the two cultures in the education system and evolve a third culture where the two sides understand and appreciate each other. Connecting the dots The quality of higher education in India requires major improvement to make it internationally competitive. Do you think that the entry of foreign educational institutions would help improve the quality of technical and higher education in the country? Discuss. (UPSC mains 2015) ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 3 Indian Economy, inflation, taxation Paying at the pump: On the causes and consequences of soaring fuel prices Introduction From last six months, petrol and diesel prices continuing to rise. There are many causes of it, some local and other global. Why are petrol and diesel prices continuing to rise? In June 2017, India’s state-run oil marketing companies switched to a dynamic pricing approach to set pump prices of petrol and diesel on a daily basis. The move was aimed at helping ensure a market-driven approach to fuel pricing by enabling oil firms to factor in day-to-day fluctuations in crude oil prices as well as movements in the exchange rate of the U.S. dollar to the rupee. As a result, with both crude oil and the dollar becoming significantly dearer over the last six months, petrol and diesel prices have remained on a steady upward trajectory countrywide. According to the Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), petrol hit a record high of Rs. 88.26 per litre on September 11 in Mumbai, where fuel prices are the highest among India’s four major metros. At that level, the cost of petrol to consumers had climbed 8.4% in this fiscal year. Besides the cost of crude oil and the exchange rate, the incidence of Excise Duty (levied by the Centre) and VAT (charged by the respective States), along with a nominal dealer commission that the oil companies pay to fuel pump owners, ends up approximately doubling the final price consumers pay. To illustrate: a consumer in Delhi paid Rs. 79.15 for a litre of petrol that was delivered to the dealers in the city at a cost of Rs. 39.21. What are the major consequences of this trend in fuel prices? Diesel is used to transport goods and commuters and therefore has a direct pass-through impact on retail inflation. When consumers end up facing higher fuel bills for using their petrol-powered two-wheelers or cars, and are also unsure of how the overall increase in the cost of living is going to impact their monthly budgets, they are likely to curtail non-essential consumption expenditure. Thus, even as inflation accelerates, consumer spending, a key driver of economic growth, could start to soften. What can the government do to ease the situation? Given the extent to which Central and State taxes inflate the final fuel prices paid by consumers; the governments have the option of trimming excise duty and VAT. This would entail foregoing some revenue in the short-term. In the longer term, policymakers must look at more enduring structural solutions including ways to reduce the dependence on crude oil imports. Connecting the dots: Consumer goods prices and in general inflation are affected by highly volatile fuel prices. Do you think, bringing down fuel imports will stabilize prices in general? Elaborate alternatives to fuel imports. (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) Decline in interest rates: Will lead to large outflow of foreign portfolio investment Will lead to large inflow of foreign portfolio investment Will not affect foreign portfolio investment May affect or not affect portfolio investment Q.2) ‘Hot Money’ refers to Foreign Portfolio Investment Reserves with the RBI Net GDR receipts Net Foreign Direct Investment Q.3) In the context of India, Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI) relates to – Investment by non-residents in Indian securities Takeover of domestic companies by foreign companies Private remittances to foreign companies Institution established or incorporated outside India which proposes to make investments in Indian securities Q.4) Consider the following statements with reference to the Masala Bonds These can be issued outside India as well as within India. These are rupee denominated bonds. Both banks and corporate entities can issue these bonds. Which of the statements given above are correct? 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ When it isn’t right to forget Indian Express A higher policy burden Indian Express No right of way for the majority Indian Express

Sep 15, 2018 PIB

IASbaba PIB Weekly : Press Information Bureau – 10th Sep to 15th Sep, 2018

IASbaba Press Information Bureau 10th to 15th September, 2018 ARCHIVES GS-2 Fight against malnutrition taken up in a mission mode Increase of daily cost norms for the beneficiaries of the ICDS Programme A technology based real time monitoring system of the Anganwadi services Identification and elimination of fake beneficiaries which is an ongoing process: Eliminated approximately one crore fake beneficiaries from the system Increase the honorarium of Anganwadi: It is being increased by 1½ times from the existing amount – The Anganwadi workers will be given Rs. 4500/- instead of Rs. 3000/- Mini Anganwadi worker will be given Rs.3500/- instead of Rs.2250/- Anganwadi helper will be given Rs. 2250/- instead of Rs. 1500/- per month This will boost their morale and help improve the delivery of services by the frontline workers and will in turn help to achieve the goal of Poshan Abhiyan. Poshan Abhiyan The Rs. 9,000-crore mission will strive to reduce stunting, under-nutrition, and low birth weight by 2 per cent and anaemia (among young children, women and adolescent girls) by 3 per cent annually over the three-year mission period. The focus of the Abhiyaan is on the first 1000 days of the child and preventive care for adolescent girls, women and mothers. Home-based Care for Young Child (HBYC) would be a crucial component of the Abhiyaan. In HBYC, ASHAs supported by Anganwadi workers will visit the homes of children aged between 3 to 15 months and sensitise mothers on energy density and diet of child. Must Read: Health and Nutrition: No child left behind Human Immunodeficiency Virus and Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (Prevention and Control) Act, 2017 The Act safeguards the rights of people living with HIV and affected by HIV. The provisions of the Act address HIV-related discrimination Strengthen the existing programme by bringing in legal accountability Establish formal mechanisms for inquiring into complaints and redressing grievances The Act lists various grounds on which discrimination against HIV positive persons and those living with them is prohibited. These include the denial, termination, discontinuation or unfair treatment with regard to: (i) Employment (ii) Educational establishments (iii) Health care services (iv) Residing or renting property (v) Standing for public or private office (vi) Provision of insurance (unless based on actuarial studies). The requirement for HIV testing as a pre-requisite for obtaining employment or accessing health care or education is also prohibited. Cabinet approves MoU between India and South Africa on cooperation in the exploration and uses of outer space for peaceful purposes: The areas of cooperation under this MoU are the following: Remote sensing of the earth; Satellite communication and satellite-based navigation; Space science and planetary exploration; Use of spacecraft, launch vehicles, space systems and ground systems; Practical applications of space technology including geospatial tools and techniques MoU on Collaborative Research on Distributed Ledger and Block Chain Technology in the context of Development of digital economy by Exim Bank under BRICS Interbank Cooperation Mechanism Distributed Ledger/Block chain technology holds potential for solutions to various challenges being faced in the financial sector space of the BRICS nations. The MoU intends to enhance understanding of Distributed Ledger/Block Chain technology, through the joint research efforts to identify areas within respective business operations where it may have the potential for applications aimed at enhancing the operational efficiencies. MoU between India and Egypt on cooperation in the field of Agriculture & allied sectors The MoU provides for cooperation in areas of agricultural crops (especially wheat and maize), agricultural biotechnology, nanotechnology, irrigation and water management technology including water harvesting and micro-irrigation technology, management of agriculture wastes management for energy production; food security, safety and quality; horticulture; organic agriculture; livestock husbandry, livestock breeding, dairying, fisheries, feed and fodder production; animal products and value addition; sanitary and phyto-sanitary issues concerning trade in plant and animal products; agriculture machinery in small scale; agri-business and marketing; pre and post-harvest procedures; food technology and processing; integrated pest management in agriculture; agricultural extension and rural development; agricultural trade & investment; intellectual property rights issues; technical know-how and human resources in seed sector; infrastructure development and capacity building in agriculture & allied sectors and other related areas of interest that are mutually agreed upon by both Parties. Cooperation will also be effected through exchange of research scientists and experts; exchange of agricultural information and scientific publications (journals, books, bulletins, statistical data on agriculture and allied sectors); exchange of germplasm & agriculture technology; and conducting joint seminars, workshops, symposiums and other similar activities. Signing of MoU between India and Malta for strengthening cooperation in the field of Tourism To encourage the quality destination of tourism industry in both countries; To increase tourist arrivals in both countries from the entire world through the territories of India and Malta; Promoting human resource development in tourism and travel-related industries in both countries; To contribute to a new tourism, offer, particularly through the promotion of natural and tangible, and intangible cultural heritage, the development of sustainable tourism and the use of information technologies; and To recognize that tourism is a means to foster relationship between peoples of the two countries. Policy Framework to Promote and Incentivize Enhanced Recovery Methods for Oil and Gas Strategic objective of the Policy: To build a supportive ecosystem through academic and research institutes, industry- academia collaboration and to support and encourage Exploration and Production (E&P;) Contractors to deploy ER/IR/UHC Methods/ techniques. The ER includes Enhanced Oil Recovery (EOR) and Enhanced Gas Recovery (EGR), Unconventional Hydrocarbon (UHC) production methods include Shale oil and gas production, tight oil and gas production, production from oil shale, gas hydrates and heavy oil. Enhanced Recovery, Improved Recovery and exploration and exploitation of unconventional hydrocarbons are capital intensive, technologically complex and challenging in nature. It calls for supporting infrastructure, logistic support, fiscal incentives and enabling environment. New Umbrella Scheme “Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay SanraksHan Abhiyan” (PM-AASHA) The Scheme is aimed at ensuring remunerative prices to the farmers for their produce as announced in the Union Budget for 2018. The increase in MSP will be translated to farmer’s income by way of robust procurement mechanism in coordination with the State Governments. GS-3 Model International Center for Transformative Artificial Intelligence (ICTAI) Collaboration between: NITI Aayog, Intel, and Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) Purpose: Towards developing and deploying AI-led application-based research projects Model ICTAI aims to conduct advanced research to incubate AI-led solutions in three important areas – healthcare, agriculture and smart mobility – by bringing together the expertise of Intel and TIFR. It aims to experiment, discover and establish best practices in the domains of ICTAI governance, fundamental research, physical infrastructure, compute and service infrastructure needs, and talent acquisition. Through this collaborative effort, the model ICTAI is chartered to develop AI foundational frameworks, tools and assets, including curated datasets and unique AI algorithms – To develop standards and support policy development related to information technology such as data-storage, information security, privacy, and ethics for data capture and use. To develop AI foundational technologies to promote applied research that can scale for national impact and will lead to the creation of a vibrant and self-sustaining ecosystem. Collaboration with industry leaders, start-ups, and AI services and product companies to productize technologies and IP that are developed at the model ICTAI Support skilling and talent development for world-class AI talent Prelims Oriented News Next Chief Justice of India: Justice Ranjan Gogoi First Tribal Circuit Project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme: Jashpur- Kunkuri- Mainpat- Kamleshpur- Maheshpur- Kurdar-Sarodadadar- Gangrel- Kondagaon- Nathiya Nawagaon- Jagdalpur- Chitrakoot- Tirthgarh Apsara – U Reactor Becomes Operational: Upgraded version of the first research reactor in Asia. The reactor, made indigenously, uses plate type dispersion fuel elements made of Low Enriched Uranium (LEU). By virtue of higher neutron flux, this reactor will Increase indigenous production or radio-isotopes for medical application by about fifty percent Would also be extensively used for research in nuclear physics, material science and radiation shielding Three ‘A’s’ for successful implementation of Mission Indradhanush: ASHA Auxiliary Nurse Midwife (ANM) Anganwadi workers Nomadic Elephant-2018: Indo-Mongolia joint exercise; an annual, bilateral exercise since 2006 which is designed to strengthen the partnership between Indian Army and Mongolian Armed Forces Successful Air-to-Air Refuelling of LCA Tejas: The Air-to-Air refuelling capability for LCA is a ‘force multiplier’ for the IAF, giving the aircraft the potential to stay airborne for much longer periods of time. The enhanced range and endurance in air is expected to provide IAF a host of options in exploiting the operational potential of the LCA as well as to participate in international exercises without having to stage through several locations enroute. PM Modi, Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina, CMs of West Bengal and Tripura, jointly dedicate three projects in Bangladesh: (a) 500 MW additional power supply from India to Bangladesh, through the existing Bheramara (Bangladesh) - Baharampur (India) interconnection (b) Akhaura – Agartala Rail Link (c) Rehabilitation of the Kulaura-Shahbazpur section of Bangladesh Railways Quotes/Words to Quote Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu On India – Addressing the 2nd World Hindu Conference 2018, in Chicago, USA The extraordinary vision of ancient India encapsulates a message that is timeless and eternally relevant because it is holistic, integrated and universal. Whenever the world is faced with the threats of fragmentation, conflict, hatred and irrational prejudices, the Indian voice brings to the world the soothing, inclusive perspectives that have pervaded its cultural world for more than two millennia. We have inherited a treasure house of ideas, values and attitudes. In a world of unprecedented changes, we need a sheet anchor and a spiritual compass. India could offer those to the world. In a world that is filled with bitterness, India could provide the honey of wisdom gathered from different flowers by different bees. Words to Quote in Mains answer: On Smart Cities Leaving people with disabilities out of economic opportunities leads to a loss of 3-7%of GDP annually Divyang-friendly measures need to be integrated at planning stage for ensuring inclusive growth in Smart Cities in India In conjunction with the Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT), the Smart Cities Mission seeks to ensure that the most vulnerable sections of our society enjoy ‘Ease of Living’ in Indian cities. We have the Accessible India Campaign, AMRUT, HRIDAY, Swachh Bharat, Digital India and the Smart Cities Mission – and accessibility cuts across them all. The 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development with its 17 goals and 169 targets, has given the nations of the world a very ambitious framework with the underlying theme of ‘Leave No One Behind’. “This framework is inspired by the Indian ethos of Sarvodaya through Antyodaya. On Agriculture The goal of agricultural development planning and investment in India needs to go beyond the production, productivity and acreage. Important as they are but these three are merely output indicators so far as the farmers as producers are concerned. The outcome from their perspective is to be seen in their gains in terms of profit and prosperity. As per the Fourth Advance Estimate a record production of 284.83 million tonnes during 2017-18 was achieved; which means an increase in production continuously for a second year. The challenge that such a situation of abundance puts up before us is that of maintaining food prices at levels that ensure farmers get their due profits, while not letting the general consumers remain deprived of the gains of bumper harvest. It is for this purpose that the following policy instruments help us in tacking the situation – Minimum Support Price Procurement for Public Distribution System Price Support Scheme Market Intervention Scheme The farmers face numerous problems in both managing agricultural production with the minimum possible cost and selling their produce at the maximum feasible agricultural produce prices because of serious market imperfections. The farmer faces farm input market imperfections which are handiworks of the business and industry involved in the production and distribution of these inputs. Similarly, when it comes to realizing maximum prices the agricultural produce market ground realities disable and deprive the farmers of their due prices. This shows in terms of non-availability of markets as such, and the exploitative nature of functioning of farm business and industry handling in agricultural markets. The other factors that enable farmers to profit and prosper by ideal use of their land, animal, water, and forestry resources are related to their ability to maximize their income with a focus on maximizing revenue; and earn more by enhancing their farm business acumen. This requires serious attention to use innovative farm technology and management to increase both produce and earning on the one hand and reducing uncertainties related to crop, prices, and supporting services on the other hand.

Sep 15, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 13th September 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 13th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) U.S. threatens sanctions on ICC Part of: GS Mains II and Prelims – International In news: US has threatened to prosecute International Criminal Court (ICC) officials if Americans are charged with war crimes committed in Afghanistan. Hague-based court’s response - As a court of law, will continue to do its work undeterred, in accordance with those principles and the overarching idea of the rule of law. Do you know? The Hague-based ICC was set up in 2002 with a jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute the world’s worst crimes, including genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. The court, however, does not have the capacity to arrest suspects and depends on member states for their cooperation. The United States has not signed up to the court and in 2002, its Congress passed a law enabling Washington to invade the Netherlands to liberate any U.S. citizen held by the court. Hurricane Florence Part of: GS Mains I and II and Prelims – International; Geography (World) In news: Hurricane Florence to hit America Emergency declared for both North Carolina and South Carolina Important Additions: A hurricane is a type of storm called a tropical cyclone, which forms over tropical or subtropical waters. Hurricanes are large, swirling storms. They produce winds of 119 kilometers per hour (74 mph) or higher. That's faster than a cheetah, the fastest animal on land. Hurricanes form over warm ocean waters. Sometimes they strike land. When a hurricane reaches land, it pushes a wall of ocean water ashore. This wall of water is called a storm surge. Heavy rain and storm surge from a hurricane can cause flooding. How Does a Storm Become a Hurricane? A hurricane starts out as a tropical disturbance. This is an area over warm ocean waters where rain clouds are building. A tropical disturbance sometimes grows into a tropical depression. This is an area of rotating thunderstorms with winds of 62 km/hr (38 mph) or less. A tropical depression becomes a tropical storm if its winds reach 63 km/hr (39 mph). A tropical storm becomes a hurricane if its winds reach 119 km/hr (74 mph). What Makes Hurricanes Form? Scientists don't know exactly why or how a hurricane forms. But they do know that two main ingredients are needed. One ingredient is warm water. Warm ocean waters provide the energy a storm needs to become a hurricane. Usually, the surface water temperature must be 26 degrees Celsius (79 degrees Fahrenheit) or higher for a hurricane to form. The other ingredient is winds that don't change much in speed or direction as they go up in the sky. Winds that change a lot with height can rip storms apart. SEBI reforms on FPI consent norms Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Government schemes and Policies; Indian Economy and related issues In news: Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to give final shape to the regulations governing investments by foreign investors especially those managed by Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Decision after feedback on Khan panel recommendations. The FPI norms have been in the news in the recent past with overseas investors objecting to a circular issued in April that barred NRIs, along with Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) and Resident Indians (RIs) from managing the investments of SEBI-registered FPIs. Cabinet clears new procurement policy Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Agriculture, MSP, PDS, Procurement and storage In news: The Centre has announced a Rs. 15,053 crore scheme to ensure that farmers growing oilseeds, pulses and copra actually get the minimum support prices (MSP) they are promised for their crops every year. Current status of MSP and Government procurement About one-third of the harvest of the two major foodgrains, rice and wheat, are procured by the Centre at the MSP for sale in ration shops. However, most of the 21 other crops are sold at market prices, often below the MSP, as the government’s procurement operations are temporary. Over the last two years, the government has increased the procurement of pulses and oilseeds at MSP under the Price Support Scheme. About Policy: Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) The umbrella policy — Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan (PM-AASHA) — was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs. It clubs together an existing procurement scheme with newly introduced options — meant for oilseeds only — of additional procurement by private traders or a cash payment scheme. The Cabinet approved government credit guarantee of Rs. 16,550 crore for agencies undertaking procurement. The government announces minimum support prices for 23 crops every year. This year, these rates were set at 50% higher than the farmers’ production costs, including labour cost. Copra, pulses will still get price support Under the PM-AASHA scheme, the existing Price Support Scheme (PSS) will continue for pulses and copra, with Central agencies physically procuring the produce whenever the market rates fall below MSP, up to a maximum limit of 25% of the total harvest. The Centre will bear the costs, as per existing guidelines. For oilseeds, the States will be allowed to choose between the PSS or two new schemes. One, the Price Deficiency Payment Scheme is modelled on the Bhavantar experiment in Madhya Pradesh last year, where there is no physical procurement at all. Farmers will sell their produce in the market, and the government will directly pay them the difference between the MSP and the average market rate. The cash payment will be deposited in their bank accounts. The burden will be shared between centre and states. Two, a pilot scheme where selected private agencies will procure the commodity at the MSP, instead of the government. Challenges NAFED has a stock of more than 4 million tonnes [of pulses and oilseeds] because of the last two years’ procurement, but their distribution policy is non-existent. Market prices are 30% lower than the MSP, who is going to bear the loss? Earlier experiments with private procurement had collapsed once demand fell. India’s health report reads worse Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Health In news: The ‘India State-level Disease Burden Initiative’ report is a joint initiative of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the Public Health Foundation of India (PHFI) and the Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, along with experts and stakeholders associated with over 100 Indian institutions. Findings of report on NCDs Indians have registered a 50% increase in the prevalence of ischemic heart disease and stroke over the period from 1990 to 2016. The number of diabetes cases increased from 26 million to 65 million. In the same period, the number of people ailing from chronic obstructive lung disease went up from 28 million to 55 million. The proportional contribution of cancers to the total loss of health in India has doubled from 1990 to 2016, but the incidence of different types of cancers varies widely between the States. The State-wise disease burden showed that Punjab has been ranked at the top for the burden of ischemic heart disease, followed by Tamil Nadu, and vice-versa for diabetes. West Bengal topped with the largest number of stroke cases followed by Odisha, according to the comprehensive analysis of several major non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Kerala was ranked at the top for the burden of cancer, followed by Assam. Being overweight was found to be a major risk factor for diabetes doubled in every State of India from 1990 to 2016. Highest rate of increase in ischemic heart disease and diabetes is in the less developed States of India. The proportional contribution of cancers to disease burden in India has doubled since 1990, but the incidence of individual cancers varies widely between the States, the reasons for which need to be understood better to guide prevention and control of cancer. Findings of this report are very timely for the planning of Ayushman Bharat, the National Health Protection Mission. Findings of report on Suicide Suicide is the leading cause of death in the 15-39 years age group in India. 71.2% of the suicide deaths among women and 57.7% among men were in this age group. India’s contribution to global suicide deaths increased from 25.3% in 1990 to 36.6% in 2016 among women, and from 18.7% to 24.3% among men. The suicide rate among the elderly has increased over the past quarter century. India must develop a suicide-prevention strategy that takes into account these variations in order to address this major public health problem, it stated. The ten-fold variation between the States in the SDR for women emphasises the need to better understand the reasons behind these suicides and make concerted efforts to reduce this avoidable loss of predominantly young lives. If the trends observed up to 2016 continued, the probability of India achieving Sustainable Development Goals for SDR reduction in 2030 will be zero. Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, which are in the higher-middle and high epidemiological transition level groups, consistently had a higher SDR for both men and women Criminal politicians: special courts to be set up to fast-track the long-pending trials of lawmakers Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Governance, Constitution, Polity In news: 25 States and UTs did not respond to repeated Supreme Court orders for information about the number of criminal cases pending against their MPs/MLAs and the setting up of special courts to exclusively try them. Due to lack of enthusiasm on the part of the States, the Supreme Court would monitor the compliance of its orders to form special courts to try MPs/MLAs and the functioning of these courts. SC also directed authorities to provide information on the functionality of 12 special courts which have already been set up in 11 States. It has also sought information on the volume of cases required to be transferred to the special courts and whether there is a need to set up more such courts. Of the 11 States, Delhi has two special courts while Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh have one each. The Supreme Court had in December 2017, ordered special courts to be set up to fast-track the long-pending trials of lawmakers. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Education, Human Resources Government schemes and Policies Encouraging young minds Introduction When the Fields medals were awarded earlier this year, the Indian media was quick to highlight that Akshay Venkatesh, one of the four medal winners, is of Indian descent. There arises a question, did our education system has contributed to Prof. Venkatesh’s achievements? and whether, given the present state of affairs, an Indian education can produce Fields medallists? Do you Know? The Fields Medal is awarded every four years on the occasion of the International Congress of Mathematicians to recognize outstanding mathematical achievement for existing work and for the promise of future achievement. The Fields Medal is regarded as one of the highest honors a mathematician can receive, and has been described as the mathematician's "Nobel Prize". This prize awarded to two, three, or four mathematicians less than 40 years of age. Indian education system and Fields Medals Although Prof. Venkatesh was born in Delhi, his family moved to Australia when he was a child. The Indian education system hardly played any role in moulding the child prodigy and this was also rather the case with Manjul Bhargava (Fields medal 2014). Subhash Khot, who won the Rolf Nevanlinna Prize in 2014, had more of an Indian education — a bachelor’s degree in computer science at IIT Bombay. Indian education system did not produced any Fields medallists. There is no dearth of talent, but the opportunities and training that these talents receive — or fail to receive, rather the lack of these makes them less than others. Programmes in India for training of mathematics students One of the programmes in India devoted to training students of mathematics and identifying and nurturing talent is the Mathematics Training and Talent Search, which was started 25 years ago, in 1993. There are also programmes that train students to compete in the Mathematics Olympiad. Yet the number of students being trained in these programmes is still small. With 36.6 million students enrolled in higher education and 36.4% joining the science and humanities streams (All India Survey on Higher Education data), it is safe to assume that there is a considerable gap between the requirement and the availability of training and nurture. Global examples France, a country with a population close to 6.5 crore, has about 3,000-4,000 scientists. It also boasts of 12 Fields medallists. This is comparable to the U.S., which has much more in terms of resources. There are schools of talent where a number of Fields medallists were trained in these countries. Such schools must be nested in a balanced network of universities, teacher education systems, and most importantly, a solid base in school education. Conclusion It is true that top prizes are not themselves a solution to all problems that beset education in India, but they remain a characteristic of a healthy educational ecosystem. Only such an ecosystem can create enough space for young minds to explore abstract mathematical and scientific ideas freely and in turn challenge the boundaries of existing knowledge. Connecting the dots: Give a brief overview of the government steps to promote studies in STEM. NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 1 Social Empowerment Role of women and associated issues, poverty and developmental issues, urbanization, their problems and their remedies General Studies 3 Economic growth Inclusive growth and issues arising from it Prison of patriarchy: Why India’s female workforce participation is so low Introduction Marriage is a career stopper for the majority of Indian women and this cultural abhorrence towards women working is a not-so-subtle way of ensuring that the escape routes out of a marriage are minimised, if not entirely closed. Female workforce in India India’s female workforce participation is among the lowest in the world. The Economic Survey 2017-18 revealed that women comprise only 24% of the Indian workforce. In fact, as India grows economically, the number of women in workplaces is declining steadily. Though the enrolment of girls in higher education courses is growing steadily — to 46% in 2014 from 39% in 2007. Causes of Low women workforce In India’s leaking pipeline of women employees, the first and most significant drop-off point is between the junior and middle management levels. A survey by Catalyst, a management consultancy firm, pegged this number at a whopping 50%, compared to 29% in other Asian economies. When plotted against life milestones, this often corresponds to the time women choose to get married. The cultural baggage about women working outside the home is so strong that in most traditional Indian families, quitting work is a necessary precondition to the wedding itself. The richer the family is, the lower the chances that they allow women to pursue a career. In low-income families, economic pressure sometimes trumps social stigma. Childbirth and taking care of elderly parents or in-laws account for the subsequent points where women drop off the employment pipeline. Consequences of decrease in women workforce On the macroeconomic level, this suggests that we’re giving up on a 27% boost to the country’s GDP. At the individual level, without any recourse to financial means, women stay tethered to the family. Ending a marriage is such a daunting task — socially and legally — that even the thought of embarking on it without financial independence is terrifying. Conclusion: Having grave consequences at macroeconomic and societal levels, unemployed women suffer at individual level too. The Supreme Court has set a benchmark of 25% of a husband’s net salary as a “just and proper” amount for alimony, leaving divorced women with full custody of the children at a quarter of the family income. Much credit for India’s low divorce rate goes to this Stockholm syndrome-like situation of Indian marriages. Financially independent women are need of the hour for strong economy as well as egalitarian society. Connecting the dots: With the rise in per capita income, women workforce participation in India is declining. Elucidate. (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 are correct regarding the ‘International Criminal Court’ (ICC)? It is primary judicial branch of the United Nations. Rome Statute is the treaty that established the ICC. ICC has the jurisdiction to prosecute individuals for the international crimes of genocide, crimes against humanity, and war crimes. India is founding member and signatory of ICC. Choose the correct answer: 1, 3 and 4 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2, 3 and 4 only Q.2) The name, Jebi, was in the news recently. Who or what is it? The rare breed of polar bear A newly found Earth-like planet in a faraway galaxy A deadliest and most destructive hurricane None of the above Q.3) Which of the following are preconditions for the formation of a tropical cyclone? A low pressure center High temperature Presence of moisture Absence of Coriolis force Select the code from the following: 1,2 and 3 2,3 and 4 1 and 2 1,3 and 4 Q.4) Cyclones, hurricanes and typhoons, may have different names, but cyclones, hurricanes and typhoons are all violent tropical storms that can generate 10 times as much energy as the Hiroshima atomic bomb. Which one of the following most appropriately differentiates the three? Names of storms according to their rising strength Names of storms in the South Pacific-Indian Ocean, the Atlantic-northeast Pacific and Asia respectively Names of storms according to their shape Name of storms according to frequency of occurrence Q.5) Consider the following about “Pradhan Mantri Annadata Aay Sanrakshan Abhiyan” (PM-AASHA) and choose the correct answer: It guarantees a minimum package of antenatal care services to women in their 2nd / 3rd trimesters of pregnancy at designated government health facilities It aims to ensure remunerative prices to the farmers It aims to provide assured, comprehensive and quality antenatal care, free of cost to all pregnant women residing in rural areas on the 9th of every month. It is a flagship social security scheme which ensures food security to the farmers. MUST READ Section 377: Drawing a curtain on the past The Hindu An education that is in sync The Hindu Dam disclosures: on the Kerala floods The Hindu Reform that isn’t Indian Express In public interest Indian Express The commission’s omissions Indian Express

Sep 15, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 12th September 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 12th September 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Small loans could turn bad: Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Government schemes and Policies; Indian Economy and related issues In news: According to Former RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan – the next crisis in India’s banking sector could come from loans given to the unorganised micro and small businesses, called MUDRA loans, and credit extended through the Kisan credit card. Government should refrain from setting ambitious credit targets or waiving loans. Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs, run by the Small Industries Development Bank of India, needs to be examined with urgency (as it is “a growing contingent liability”). A large number of bad loans originated in the period 2006-2008, when economic growth was strong and it is at such times that banks make mistakes. Do you know? As per the data from the Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency (MUDRA) website, a total of ₹6.37 lakh crore has been disbursed under the scheme by public and private sector banks, regional rural banks and micro-finance institutions till date. MUDRA loans are offered under the Prime Minister Mudra Yojana or PMMY, launched in 2015 by the NDA government. Important schemes IASbaba recommend you to have different perspective and assessment of following schemes for this year Mains or for next attempt. MUDRA Scheme Kisan credit card Credit Guarantee Scheme for MSMEs Ecological damage to Aravallis Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Conservation of Biodiversity In news: Supreme Court ordered the demolition of structures built illegally in the protected forests of the Aravallis. SC bench ordered that all structures built after August 18, 1992 in the area known as ‘Kant Enclave’ at Anangpur in Faridabad district of Haryana should be demolished. Important Value Additions: Aravalli Range is a range of mountains running in a southwest direction, starting in North India from Delhi and passing through southern Haryana, through to Western India across the states of Rajasthan and ending in Gujarat. It is the oldest range of fold mountains in India. Map work: Locate Aravalli range and other mountain ranges Influx of alien fish species due to Kerala Floods Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Conservation of Biodiversity In news: The catastrophic floods in Kerala have released several alien species of fish into waterbodies. Influx of alien fishes has raised a threat to the endemic aquatic ecosystem and biodiversity. Alien species had escaped in large numbers from flooded commercial and ornamental fish farms. As per IUCN, proliferation of alien species poses a serious threat to the freshwater ecosystems of Kerala, which is considered to be a global hotspot for fish diversity. No water aerodrome project in Chilika Lake Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Conservation of Biodiversity In news: Airports Authority of India (AAI) has dropped the proposed water aerodrome project at Chilika Lake in Odisha. Fast recap: AAI had proposed to set up a water aerodrome in Chilika Lake for starting amphibious aircraft operations in Odisha. Project faced green hurdle due to possible ecological consequences. Chilika turns into a temporary habitat for lakhs of migratory and residential birds. If an aircraft flies at low height, there is every chance of the birds getting hit. Noise pollution generated by close to 10,000 boats has already taken a toll on the endangered Irrawaddy dolphins in the lake. The amphibious aircraft operation would add to the woes. Do you know? Nearly one million avian visitors come from the Arctic and Eurasian regions to Chilika. India’s first missile tracking ship Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Defence; Security; Science and Technology In news: India’s first missile tracking ship is readying for sea trials Built by Hindustan Shipyard Ltd., the hi-tech vessel will enter elite global club The ship is being built for the National Technical Research Organisation This will be the first of its kind ocean surveillance ship About NTRO NTRO is the technical intelligence agency working directly under the supervision of the Prime Minister’s Office and the National Security Adviser. The NTRO acts as the primary advisor on security issues to the Prime Minister and the Union Council of Ministers of India. It also provides technical intelligence to other Indian agencies. NTRO's activities include satellite and terrestrial monitoring. It cannot, however, legally monitor Internet or other communications; there are nine other agencies authorized to do so. NTRO is also charged with developing technology relevant to Indian national security and intelligence. These technologies include cryptology, cybersecurity and data management. Do you know? Visakhapatnam is considered a strategic location on the East Coast for the Indian defence forces as it is home for Ship Building Centre to build nuclear powered submarine INS Arihant class, Naval Alternate Operational Base at Rambilli, the second naval base after Eastern Naval Command headquarters, training centre for Marine Commandos and headquarters of the submarine arm. Pic: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/09/12/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/c2eb2975_2385663_101_mr.jpg BIMSTEC First joint military exercise: MILEX 18 exercise Part of: GS Mains II and Prelims – International; India and its neighbours In news: MILEX 18 exercise – to be held in Pune – is aimed at helping BIMSTEC nations practise “planning and conduct of counter terrorist operations”. Each country was asked to send a contingent of 30 personnel including five officers and 25 soldiers in addition to three observers. However many countries backed out from sending full contingents and sent only observers. U.S. threatens sanctions on ICC Part of: GS Mains II and Prelims – International In news: US has threatened to prosecute International Criminal Court (ICC) officials if Americans are charged with war crimes committed in Afghanistan. Hague-based court’s response - As a court of law, will continue to do its work undeterred, in accordance with those principles and the overarching idea of the rule of law. Do you know? The Hague-based ICC was set up in 2002 with a jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute the world’s worst crimes, including genocide, war crimes and crimes against humanity. The court, however, does not have the capacity to arrest suspects and depends on member states for their cooperation. The United States has not signed up to the court and in 2002, its Congress passed a law enabling Washington to invade the Netherlands to liberate any U.S. citizen held by the court. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2 Constitution; fundamental right, social justice, liberty, equality, fraternity Welfare schemes, mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections A greater transformation Introduction In its decision in Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of Indi, the Supreme Court has struck down the colonial-era law criminalising homosexuality and the lives of LGBTQ persons. In its four concurring judgments, the court traversed the protections of fundamental rights in the Constitution to find that the provision violated the rights of LGBTQ persons to dignity, equality, privacy and expression. Observations of the Court: ‘Personal matters’ and a stereotypical morality Section 377 of the Indian Penal Code indifferently intruded into a zone of intimate decision which is entitled to constitutional protection. “The choice of a partner, the desire for personal intimacy and the yearning to find love and fulfilment in human relationships have a universal appeal.” "The state has no business to intrude into these personal matters. Nor can societal notions of heteronormativity regulate constitutional liberties based on sexual orientation.” The opinion of the Chief Justice of India, stresses the right to develop one’s individuality against the demands of social conformity. The guarantee of equality at its heart was the guarantee of equal citizenship. The criminalising ambit of Section 377 violated this guarantee as it “singles out people, by their private choices” and “marks them as less than citizens — or less than human”. The harm of Section 377 was not just that it prohibited a form of intimate and personal choice but that it encoded a stereotypical morality which has deep-ranging social effects. Section 377 “perpetuates a certain culture”, based on “homophobic attitudes” which make “it impossible for victims to access justice”. Constitutional guarantee of the right to develop one’s personhood and the right to equal citizenship is firmly anchored in the notion of constitutional morality, as referenced by Justices of the SC. The denial to LGBT persons of the right to dignity is incompatible with the morality of the Constitution. Significance of the judgment The right not to be discriminated against on grounds of one’s sexual orientation is violated by the prejudicial stereotypes about the LGBTQ community fostered by Section 377. By explicitly setting out the Court as a guarantor of minority rights, regardless of the opinion of “popular or legislative majorities”, the Court has signalled its determination to defend the Constitution. In a time when lynchings have become the order of the day and government remains a mute spectator, the role that the judiciary has to play in safeguarding the right to life of minorities of all stripes and hues cannot be overstated. The idea that majority opinion should prevail over the right to dignity and liberty of the minority was explicitly rejected. The logic of Navtej Singh Johar is anchored within what bench called “a transformative Constitution”. According to judges, “the purpose of having a constitution is to transform society” to “embrace therein” the “ideals of justice, liberty, equality and fraternity”. The mandate to transform society in allegiance to the Constitution is a task vested in the state, the judiciary and the citizen. Way forward If a law has taken root in the social, cultural and legal consciousness, the challenge of wiping out the prejudice which the law has fostered is still immense. Similar Example; the prejudice and violence Denotified Tribes still face at the hands of the state and society even after the colonial-era Criminal Tribes Act was repealed. Court mandated the Union of India to give “wide publicity to the judgment” and conduct “sensitisation and awareness training for government officials and in particular police officials in the light of observations contained in the judgment” to combat the prejudicial attitudes encoded in Section 377. The implications of a transformative Constitution are wide ranging and its power can be harnessed by inter-caste, inter-religious and same sex couples, all of whom are battling a form of social morality which is at odds with the Constitution. The court observed, “The right to love not just a separate battle for LGBTQ individuals but a battle for us all”. If respect for dignity, equality and fraternity, against all the forms of discrimination by a conservative social morality, becomes more widely accepted, India will be less of a majoritarian democracy and more of a form of constitutional democracy. Connecting the dots: SC judgments and striking down of provisions such as Section 377, is beginning of the war against discriminatory social morality. Elucidate. ENVIRONMENT TOPIC: General Studies 3 Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment International efforts for protection environment and mitigation of degradation Cloudy forecast: on climate change Introduction The conference of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change in Bangkok was to draft a rulebook for the Paris Agreement ahead of a crucial international conference in Poland in December, ran into predictable difficulties over the issue of raising funds to help poorer nations. Some developed countries led by the U.S. has rejected the agreement and are unwilling to commit to sound rules on raising climate finance. Till now, Emissions done by Developed Countries: Those emissions raised living standards for their citizens but contributed heavily to the accumulated carbon dioxide burden, now measured at about 410 parts per million of CO2 in the atmosphere, up from 280 ppm before the industrial revolution. If scientific estimates are correct, the damage already done to the West Antarctic Ice Sheet is set to raise sea levels; a 2° Celsius rise will also destabilise the Greenland Ice Sheet. Failed agriculture in populous countries will drive more mass migrations of people, creating conflict. A deeper insight on all this will be available in October when the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change releases its scientific report on the impact of a 1.5° C rise in global average temperature. India and China: should take Leadership Role: There is international pressure on China and India to cut GHG emissions. Both countries have committed themselves to a cleaner growth path. India, which reported an annual CO2 equivalent emissions of 2.136 billion tonnes in 2010 to the UNFCCC two years ago, estimates that the GHG emissions intensity of its GDP has declined by 12% for the 2005-2010 period. As members committed to the Paris Agreement, China and India have the responsibility of climate leadership in the developing world, and have to green their growth. Do you know? Background: At COP 21 in Paris, on 12 December 2015, Parties to the UNFCCC reached a landmark agreement to combat climate change and to accelerate and intensify the actions and investments needed for a sustainable low carbon future. Under the pact concluded in Paris, rich countries pledged to raise $100 billion a year by 2020 to help developing countries reduce their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and aid populations to cope with extreme events such as floods, droughts and storms. However, Mr. Trump in June last year announced his decision to withdraw from the Paris deal, saying the accord would have cost America trillions of dollars, killed jobs, and hindered the oil, gas, coal and manufacturing industries. United States of America (USA) is the second largest Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emitter presently. However, if cumulative historical emission is considered, USA would be largest GHG emitter. So, its withdrawal will affect control of cumulative global GHG emissions. It will also affect the availability of international funds for climate change, as USA was a contributor to climate finance. India’s Contribution to reduce GHGs: In the pre-2020 period, India announced its voluntary goal to reduce the emission intensity of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 20-25 per cent from 2005 levels by 2020. Government of India is implementing the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) which includes eight national missions being implemented by various Ministries in specific areas: Solar Energy, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic knowledge for Climate Change. Measures and Policies for Tackling Climate Change by India: Under the Paris Agreement, India has submitted its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) to the UNFCCC outlining Eight (8) targets for 2021-2030, including To reduce Emission Intensity of its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 33 to 35 percent by 2030 from 2005 level, To achieve about 40 percent cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel-based energy resources by 2030 with the help of transfer of technology and low-cost international finance including from Green Climate Fund (GCF), To create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent through additional forest and tree cover by 2030. The other targets pertain to sustainable lifestyles; climate friendly growth path; climate change adaptation; climate change finance; and capacity building and technology. Way forward Obstructing the transition to a carbon-neutral pathway and preserving the status quo is short-sighted, simply because the losses caused by weather events are proving severely detrimental to all economies. Developing countries need a supportive framework in the form of a rulebook that binds the developed countries to their funding pledges, provides support for capacity building and transfer of green technologies on liberal terms. Incremental changes along with increasing contributions from renewables and improvements in energy efficiencies would not be sufficient. There should instead be major changes in technological innovation, behaviour, values and governance. This is an unprecedented challenge for humanity. This is the time for the world’s leaders to demonstrate that they are ready to go beyond expediency and take the actions needed to avert long-term catastrophe. Connecting the dots: In the backdrop of negative developments in climate change efforts, on behalf of some developed nations under the leadership of US, do you think that Paris summit (COP21) will be able to achieve its targets? (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 regarding Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY) It aims to provide formal access of financial facilities to non-corporates, small businesses. Under the scheme, Pradhaan Mantri Mudra Yojana three categories of interventions have been named which include Shishu (Loan up to ₹50,000), Kishore (Loan ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹5 lakh) and Tarun (Loan above ₹5 lakh and below ₹10 lakh) Food Processing is an eligible activity for coverage under one of the MUDRA schemes. Select the correct option 1 and 3 2 and 3 1 and 2 1, 2 and 3 Q.2) Which of the following is not correct about Kisan Credit Card? It was introduced by Indian Banks based on NABARD’s Model scheme. Commercial banks, Regional Rural Banks as well as State co-operative banks can provide loans under this scheme. The card holder is also covered under personal accident insurance. The card is valid for lifetime or till the person is in employed in agriculture. Q.3) Which one of the following mountain ranges is spread over only one State in India? Satpura Aravalli Sahyadri None of the above Q.4) Which of the following statements are correct regarding the ‘Aravalli’ ranges of India? It is the oldest block mountain range of India It is highly denuded because of erosion. The highest peak of Aravallis is Guru Shikhar Select the code from below: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.5) Consider the following about National Technical Research Organisation: It is the technical intelligence agency working directly under the supervision of the Prime Minister’s Office and the Home Ministry. It involves in satellite and terrestrial monitoring activities. It also develops technology relevant to Indian national security and intelligence. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 Q.6) Choose the correct pair/s from the below: MILEX 18 exercise : : ASEAN Exercise Peace Mission 2018 : : SCO IBSAMAR exercise : : BRICS Select incorrect answer: 1 only 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ ‘For the security of India, stability in Sri Lanka is very important’ The Hindu Encouraging young minds The Hindu Understanding bad loans Indian Express A perilous edge Indian Express

Sep 14, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 66]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 66] Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements Swadesh Darshan is a scheme of the Ministry of Tourism, for development of thematic circuits in the country in a planned and prioritised manner. First Tribal Circuit Project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme will be in Chhattisgarh Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about ‘United Nations Interagency Task Force on NCDs (UNIATF)’ It was established by the United Nations Secretary-General in 2013 in response to the 2011 Political Declaration of the High-level Meeting of the General Assembly on the Prevention and Control of NCDs. The World Health Organization acts as a Secretariat and lead for the Task Force Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) ‘Exporting Corruption Report’ is released by Transparency International World Economic Forum United Nations Development Programme World Bank Q.4) Consider the following statements about ‘OECD Anti-Bribery Convention’ It establishes legally binding standards to criminalise bribery of foreign public officials in international business transactions India is a party to the convention Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) IBSAMAR is a naval exercise between members of which of the following groupings? BRICS ASEAN BIMSTEC Andean Community To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba

Sep 14, 2018 RSTV Video

RSTV- Section 377 Decriminalised

Section 377 Decriminalised Archives TOPIC: General studies 2: Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. Human Rights Issue – LGBT community issue Government policies and interventions in regard to the above issue. In News: Celebrations broke out 6 September, 2018 as the LGBTQ community and others welcomed the Supreme Court judgment decriminalising consensual gay sex, asserting that the "historic" verdict granted them a basic human right but also acknowledging that complete equality was still some distance away. In the case: Navtej Singh Johar v. Union of India Why: A five-judge Constitution bench of the Supreme Court unanimously decriminalised part of the 158-year-old colonial law under Section 377 of the IPC, which criminalises consensual unnatural sex, prompting joyous tears, hugs and dancing across the country. Performing its classic function of judicial review, the court has struck down Section 377 as being violative of Articles 14 and 15. What does this mean? Society cannot dictate a sexual relationship between consenting adults. The choice of a partner, the desire for personal intimacy and the yearning to find love and fulfilment in human relationships have a universal appeal and the state has no business to intrude into these personal matters. Nor can societal notions of heteronormativity regulate constitutional liberties based on sexual orientation. The guarantee of equality at its heart was the guarantee of equal citizenship. The criminalising ambit of Section 377 violated this guarantee as it “singles out people, by their private choices” and “marks them as less than citizens— as or less than human”. What is Section 377 of IPC? Section 377 of the IPC states: “Whoever voluntarily has carnal intercourse against the order of nature with any man, woman or animal, shall be punished with 1[imprisonment for life], or with imprisonment of either description for a term which may extend to ten years, and shall also be liable to fine.” The first petition to get rid of Section 377 was filed in the Delhi Court in 2009 by Naz Foundation, an NGO that works for LGBTQ rights. It stated that the section violates the fundamental rights of the LGBTQ community. Section 377 has a “chilling effect” on the right of equality, liberty, life, dignity and non-discrimination on the ground of sex – it violates the following fundamental rights as claimed by the petitioners: Article 14 – Right to equality Article 15 – Prohibition of Discrimination Article 21 – Right to Life and Personal Liberty Article 19 (1)(a) – Freedom of Expression The Way Forward: Transformative constitutionalism: Indian constitution ought to adapt and transform with the changing needs of the times. The very purpose of constitutionalism is to transform society. Dynamic constitutional interpretation allows for the progressive realisation of rights as societies evolve, and is also essential to enable transformative constitutionalism. Decriminalising homosexuality may not remove the social stigma around it: Law and morality are different issues. Our legislators may frame laws or courts deliver judgments that are ahead of the moral values of a society. But it would be farfetched to expect that moral values can be changed because of court judgments. Battling the stigma: While this decision by the country’s highest court is certainly significant, there needs to be more of an impetus for social change and removing ignorance from society. There needs to be a campaign to not only to raise awareness but to educate people on what homosexuality is. The government should conduct programmes to end the stigma around homosexuality and individuals employed with the government should receive workshops to sensitise them to subject. Rape law reforms for male survivors: There is a need for rape law reform to protect male survivors of sexual violence. There is no law to protect adult male victims of sexual assault, whether they are cis- or transgender. Parliament needs to fill these lacunae in the law. Note: 1861: This is the year when Section 377 was introduced by the British Raj. The section was drafted in 1838 by Thomas Macaulay and was brought into effect in 1860. It was modelled on the Buggery Act of 1533 and it states ‘buggery’ is an unnatural sex act which goes against nature, God and man’s will. The act criminalises anal penetration, bestiality, and homosexuality. Connecting the Dots: Do you think section 377 of the IPC is out of sync with the social reality today? What approach would you suggest to address the issue? Discuss. In India, Section 377 of the IPC was introduced not as a reflection of existing Indian values and traditions, but rather, it was imposed upon Indian society due to the moral values of the colonisers. Indian society prior to enactment of the IPC had a much greater tolerance of homosexuality. Comment.

Sep 13, 2018 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 65]

UPSC Quiz- 2019 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz [Day 65] Archives Q.1) World Economic Outlook is released by World Economic Forum International Monetary Fund World Bank None of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements about ‘Environmental Defense Fund’ It was established on the eve of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit to help tackle our planet’s most pressing environmental problems. It was established in the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD). Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Which of the following strait connects Aegean Sea with the Sea of Marmara? Bosporus Dardanelles Gibraltar Bering Q.4) Mukurthi National Park is located in which of the following states? Karnataka Tamil Nadu Uttarakhand Andhra Pradesh Q.5) ‘Dagadusheth Halwai’ is a famous ‘Ganapati/Ganesha’ temple which was recently in news. Where is it located? Hampi Pune Kolhapur Dharwad To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best IASbaba

Sep 12, 2018 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

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