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IASbaba’s OFFLINE and ONLINE Programs/Initiatives: MAINS 2019 and PRELIMS 2020

IASbaba’s OFFLINE and ONLINE Programs/Initiatives: MAINS 2019 and PRELIMS 2020    We have been receiving many enquiries regarding our OFFLINE and ONLINE initiatives/courses. This write-up is to address all the Programme details of IASbaba in a single post.   OFFLINE PROGRAMS/INITIATIVES FOR MAINS 2019: TLP MAINS MENTORSHIP BASED ANSWER WRITING PROGRAMME -2019 (General Studies & Essay)- Daily and Weekly Mains Test, One-One Mentorship, General Discussion, Evaluation, Synopsis -> CLICK HERE   TLP SOCIOLOGY OPTIONAL  MAINS TEST SERIES -> CLICK HERE   TLP KANNADA LITERATURE OPTIONAL  MAINS TEST SERIES -> CLICK HERE   FOR FRESHER'S 2020: ILP OFFLINE 2020 - It’s an integrated programme (15 months) covering Prelims + Mains + Interview, with regular Prelims and Mains Test.       For Complete Details/Payment/Faculty Profile/Schedule - > CLICK HERE   OFFLINE All India Prelims Test Series (AIPTS) 2020 -> CLICK HERE   OPTIONAL CLASSES (Test Series is included) provided at IASbaba: SOCIOLOGY OPTIONAL  ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL KANNADA LITERATURE OPTIONAL  GEOGRAPHY OPTIONAL  POLITICAL SCIENCE OPTIONAL  For Complete Details of the Optional Classroom Programme - CLICK HERE   ONLINE PROGRAMS/INITIATIVES: ONLINE ILP- FRESHER’S 2020 It’s an integrated programme covering both Prelims + Mains. Important Feature includes – Babapedia (Prelimspedia, Mainspedia), Value Added Notes (VAN), All India Prelims Test Series(40 GS, 10 CSAT), Mains Mocks, Essay guidance, Abhivyakti (Social Media of ILP) and many more. ONLINE ILP- VETERANS 2020 It’s an integrated programme covering both Prelims + Mains. Important Feature includes – Babapedia (Prelimspedia, Mainspedia), Value Added Notes (VAN), All India Prelims Test Series(40 GS, 10 CSAT), Mains Mocks, Essay guidance, Abhivyakti (Social Media of ILP) and many more. Please note that, here the Schedule of ILP Veteran’s will be different and Test Series will be from Moderate to Difficult level (Subject-wise from both Standard and NCERT's), whereas in ILP Fresher’s the Test Series will be of Easy to Moderate to Difficult Level, wherein in the Easy level will cover concepts from Basic NCERT’s, gradually to Standard Text Books and Reference Books. For Complete Details/Schedule/Fees - > CLICK HERE   ONLINE All India Prelims Test Series (AIPTS) 2020 -> CLICK HERE ** Please note that, there is NO DEADLINE to join ILP ONLINE/AIPTS 2020 Programme **   FOR MAINS 2019: TLP PLUS - ONLINE MAINS GENERAL STUDIES (GS and ESSAY) Test Series -> CLICK HERE OPTIONAL (ONLINE) MAINS TEST Series: TLP MAINS SOCIOLOGY Test Series -> CLICK HERE TLP MAINS ANTHROPOLOGY Test Series -> CLICK HERE TLP MAINS PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION Test Series-> CLICK HERE TLP MAINS KANNADA LITERATURE Test Series -> CLICK HERE   PROGRAMS/COURSES EXCLUSIVE to  DELHI CENTER   TLP OFFLINE Mains Answer Writing Programme 2019 TLP PLUS - ONLINE MAINS PROGRAMME (GS and Essay) 2019 OFFLINE ALL INDIA PRELIMS TEST SERIES (AIPTS) 2020  -> CLICK HERE   For Complete Details about IASbaba's Program's at DELHI ->CLICK HERE Delhi Centre : 5 B, PUSA road , Opposite to Karol Bagh Metro station (Landmark: CROMA Store) Office No.: +91 1141678500/ 1141672600   CONTACT US: You can visit any of the following centres for Admissions or Related Enquiries: Vijayanagar Centre: 1737/ 37, MRCR Layout, Vijayanagar Service Road, Vijayanagar, Bengaluru-5660040 Chandra Layout Centre: No. 1443/1444, Above Carzspa, 80 Ft. Main Road, Ganapathi Circle, Chandra Layout, Bengaluru- 560040   You can also reach us on  Email id: offline@iasbaba.com -> Offline initiatives ilp@iasbaba.com -> Online ILP/AIPTS Related Queries support@iasbaba.com -> General Queries   Mobile No.: 9035077800/7353177800 ( Office Timings: 10 am – 5.30 pm)     Thank You IASbaba

Topper's From IASbaba

TOPPER'S STRATEGY: Chitra Mishra Rank 20, CSE 2018- History Optional (Paper II) - 300/500 !!

TOPPER'S STRATEGY: Chitra Mishra Rank 20, CSE 2018- History Optional (Paper II) - 300/500 !!   On behalf of the student community, we would like to thank Chitra Mishra, Rank 20 for sharing her History Optional (Paper II) Notes and Strategy with IASbaba, so that it would benefit many aspirants who are preparing for Mains with History as their Optional. It's a Kind Gesture and very few people do this.  “When we share, we open doors to a new beginning.” ― Paul Bradley Smith    The 34 page PDF (available for Download) below, gives you a comprehensive strategy, Notes, Sources Chsitra had referred to. If your Optional is History make the best use of it, if not kindly share it with your friend's who are giving Mains with the same Optional. Strategy on HISTORY OPTIONAL (Paper I) will be shared soon.   Detailed Strategy for Paper II - History Optional History optional strategy requires a renewed analysis, delineating the topics, previous year paper analysis, and detailed strategy;  History optional has acquired a fossil-like significance and format post 2013-14. This is due to the fact students who zero down on taking up history as optional has very limited and specific institutes.  One being Insight IAS Academy under Baliyan Sir at Karol Bagh and The Study by Manikant Singh Sir, for Hindi Medium at Mukherjee Nagar- remains two major go-to-site for any beginner in the initial phase. Both these institutes are relevant and exam-oriented, to a large extent. However, simple enrollment to these would be partial and insufficient and one-dimensional, if one aims to score 300 +.  Study material for this optional is very extensive, scattered, diverse. In other words, it is far from being to-the-point, concise and organized to handle those crucial 500 marks effectively. While one standard option is to read exclusively the class notes given by these institutes, other option is clearly the more challenging one- to plan, prepare and review your strategy as per the changes in UPSC optional paper requirements;  Nonetheless, the relevance and importance of this optional is further enhanced due to its components in General Studies -1 and Prelims.  There are two specific purpose of writing this particular post.  During my course of preparation, there was a lot of resource material at hand and readings across, study material. As an enthusiastic aspirant, you tend to quickly hoard material- of all the possible, probable, potential books from the list of books.  In the first part of my post, I try to substantiate the co-relation between books and topic in the History syllabus.  Secondly, the purpose also would be to analyze if the sub-sections have been asked in last 5 years (2014-18) and if so, can the material, notes and ideas help us to tackle those?  The central idea behind this post is to also analyse the themes/topics on the basis of last few years of question paper pattern of UPSC. This would act as ready reckoner for future History optional aspirants.  This section will be useful for those of you interested in the preparation strategy of General Studies Paper 1 as well as importantly for Paper II in History Optional for 250 marks. I scored 169/250 in this paper CSE – 2018. In this post, I wish to analyse the syllabus- reading list and include my handwritten and word notes which was instrumental in scoring higher in Paper 2.    Few general points: The idea is not to let yourself get lost in multiple sources, resource material, reference books. Our main guide to this section & the central basis must be the topics clearly articulated in the syllabus. Utmost care should be taken that – while one has clear, understanding on the factual content, equal emphasis should also be to link, analyse the topics in logical manner with continuities. Flowcharts, Maps can be extremely instrumental to handle 10-mark questions. Statement based questions can be prepared to a large extent by following UPSC last 25 years question papers. Do have a copy of previous year papers.     Modern India - Part A How to approach Modern Indian History: This is perhaps the most important segment in the History optional preparation Prelims section (usually 12-15 questions) GS -1 (4-5 questions) 125 marks of Part A of Paper II of History Optional;   Books Referred for Modern Indian History Segment: Assuming such a crucial significance of the Modern Indian section, one must be very clear about the sources. During the course of my preparation, I made summary notes and here, attached the pdf of the chapters of two most important books suggested for history optional aspirants- Shekhar Bandhopadhyay’s Link attached –  Plassey to Partition Summary Notes Bipan Chandra’s India’s Struggle for Independence 1857-1947 (Specific Chapters summary) is attached.  Bipan Chandra- India Since Independence for last few topics (Chapters mentioned) and a 200 page summary of India After Gandhi by Ramchandra Guha ( for those of you interested in this section) Selected notes from IGNOU ( Social Reforms section, Industrialization, Permanent Settlement, Peasant and Tribal Uprising notes – attached along the topics ); Specific chapters from 32nd edition of A new look at Modern Indian History – From 1707 to the Modern Times- B.L Grover and Alka Mehta, S. Chand Publication; I used this book in selective manner. Some of the chapters are required to tackle those areas which are not quite the popular NCERT prelims- and GS mains topics and yet from optional paper and 10 marks- compulsory section, it becomes extremely crucial. One segment in this book, enables you to understand the narrative of Governor Generals Chapter 7– Clive’s Second Governorship of Bengal, 1765-1767; Chapter 8, Warren Hastings; Chapter 9, Cornwallis; Chapter 10, Lord Wellesley; Chapter 12, Lord Hastings; Chapter 14, Lord Bentinck; Chapter 18, Dalhousie; Chapter 24, Lytton and Ripon; Chapter 25, Lord Curzon; Second segment in specific is about: Chapter 4– Anglo-French Rivalry in the Carnatic and Chapter 6– Career and Achievements of Dupleix; Chapter 2 and 3– Marathas – Achievements of the Early Peshwas and Marathas Administration under the Peshwas and Chapter 13– Anglo-Maratha Struggle for Supremacy; Chapter 11– Anglo-Mysore, Chapter 15– Sind; Chapter 16 & 17– Anglo-Sikh; Chapter 26– Anglo-Afghan & Chapter 27– North-West Frontier; Third segment which can be selectively referred are Chapter 21– Tribal revolts, Civil Rebellions, popular Movements and Mutinies, 1757-1856 & Chapter 37– Peasant Revolts and Agrarian Movements For a selected 10-mark question on Famine policy, Chapter 38 – The development of famine policy; Finally, the reason this book would be useful is its introductory statement-based facts, right at the beginning of each chapter. Some of them are asked in previous year CSE exam. For example, Chapter 15 Annexation of Sind, Page 132 (Statement of Sir Charles Napier).   World History - Part B   General Sources: IGNOU B.A selected chapters. In addition, I have attached few theoretical chapters from M.A (on Imperialism, Colonialism, Total War). The latter is however optional for reading. Norman Lowe – Selected chapters for second half of syllabus; This is good source for 1900-1991 and beyond. A Study of Modern Europe and the World 1815-1950by Mukherjee. This is meant to be read and not made notes. It is like a good revision for narrative; This book should be read for chapters like Part 1- Congress of Vienna1815, Eastern Question (Part I- Chapter III, V,X, Part II, chapter IV), Part II, chapter VIII - United Nations Organisationand Part III section for Middle Egypt, Arab Nationalism, China, Japan, South-East Asiaand finally, for USA section, chapter V entirely).  Link of the book; Arjun Dev’s- Contemporary World History- Old NCERT Class XII book. Again, this book is only meant for basic reading for later half of syllabus. Wikipediafor factual clarity. I prepared sections of Locarno Pact, Inter-war treaties from here too.   For Detailed Topic Analysis and Strategy of HISTORY OPTIONAL (Paper II) -> Click here   Thank You Chitra Mishra Rank 20, CSE 2018

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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 16th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Debate on the National Investigation Agency (NIA) (Amendment) Bill, 2019 in loksabha Part of Prelims and Mains GSIII security issues  In news The Lok Sabha on July 15, 2019 passes The National Investigative Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019. This Bill gives NIA officers power to investigate offences committed outside India too, and mandates the setting up of Special Courts. During the debate over the bill, erstwhile Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) was also became part of the political discussion. Do you know? “Prevention of Terrorism Act” (POTA), 2002 Came after the IC-814 hijack and 2001 Parliament attack. A suspect could be detained for up to 180 days by a special court. A separate chapter to deal with terrorist organisations was included. Union government was mandated to maintain a list of organised that would fall under the act’s radar and had full authority to make additions or removals. National Investigation Agency (Amendment) Bill, 2019 provides for the following: "In order to facilitate the speedy investigation  prosecution of Scheduled Offences, including those committed outside India against the Indian citizens or affecting the interest of India  To insert certain new offences in the Schedule to the Act as Scheduled Offences which adversely affect the national security, it has become necessary to amend certain provisions of the Act." National Green Tribunal (NGT) constituted a committee on illegal construction on the floodplains Part of Prelims and mains GS III Environment and ecology In news National Green Tribunal (NGT) has constituted a committee to look into a plea alleging illegal construction on the floodplains of river Kosi in Rampur, Uttar Pradesh, by a private university Do you know? National Green Tribunal is a statutory body established by a Government Notification using the powers of Section 3 of the NGT Act 2010. Objective  To provide effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forestsand other natural resources including enforcement of any legal right relating to environment. Giving relief and compensation for damages to persons and property Other Related Matters. River kosi Kosi River is known as the "Sorrow of Bihar" These include the Tamor River originating from the Kanchenjunga area in the east and Arun River and Sun Koshi from Tibet The Kosi is 720 km long and drains in Tibet (China), Nepal and Bihar (India). NGT directs Army to shift ammunition dump Part of Prelims and mains GS III Environment and ecology In news National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Army to shift its ammunition dump in Raiwala, Uttarakhand to ensure restoration of the Chila-Motichur Elephant Corridor. The ammunition dump was a threat to the wildlife and ecology of the Chilla-Motichur corridor. Do you know? Chilla-Motichur corridor It is a part of Rajaji national park  Loctedin uttarakhand It an elephant corridor , Declared free of human habitation Vaccine trials started to check Tuberculosis spread  Part of Prelims and Mains GS II Governance; Health services  In news: Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has started a TB vaccine trial with a view to preventing the occurrence of tuberculosis among the close contacts of a patient. Trial is being conducted to come up with the first TB vaccine for adults as the BCG vaccine is only for new-borns. Two vaccines — VPM1002 and Mycobacterium Indicus Pranii (MIP) — had been short-listed for the phase III trial among the healthy household contacts of a sputum smear-positive patient. Do you know? India contributes to 27% of global TB population. Few TB drugs of TB are Isoniazid, Rifampicin. Nikshay is a web based solution for monitoring TB, launched by the Health Ministry. India want to end TB by 2025 About Tuberculosis (TB) A serious infectious bacterial disease that mainly affects the lungs. TB is an infectious disease usually caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) Spread when an infected person. Through airborne respiratory droplets (coughs or sneezes) and by saliva (kissing or shared drinks). TB is Curable and preventable, when medicines are provided and taken properly. ‘Blue Flag’ challenge for Indian oceans Part of Prelims and Mains GS III Environment and ecology In news Union Environment Ministry has selected 12 beaches in India for a ‘Blue Flag’ certification, an international recognition conferred on beaches that meet certain criteria of cleanliness and environmental propriety About Blue Flag The Blue Flag programme for beaches and marinas is run by the international, non-governmental, non-profit organisation FEE (the Foundation for Environmental Education). It started in France in 1985 and has been implemented in Europe since 1987 Spain tops the list with 566 such beaches; Greece and France follow with 515 and 395, respectively What is the criteria to achieve this Blue Flag certification Nearly 33 criteria that must be met to qualify for a Blue Flag certification Such as the water meeting certain standards such as waste disposal facilities, disabled-friendly facilities, first aid equipment and no access to pets in the main areas of the beach. Some criteria are voluntary and some compulsory To help Indian beaches meet these criteria The Union Ministry has allowed structures such container toilet blocks, change rooms, shower panels, mini greywater treatment plants in an enclosed structure, mini solid waste recycling plants and off-grid solar photovoltaic panels to come up, provided they are a minimum 10 metres from the high tide line. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health A WASH for healthcare Introduction Healthcare facilities are many and varied. Some are primary, others are tertiary. Many are public, some are private. Some meet specific needs, whether dentistry or occupational therapy, and some are temporary, providing acute care when disaster strikes. Adequate water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) amenities, including waste management and environmental cleaning services, are critical to their safe functioning.  Impacts of lack of WASH facilities  When a healthcare facility lacks adequate WASH services, infection prevention and control are severely compromised.  This has the potential to make patients and health workers sick from avoidable infections.  As a result, efforts to improve maternal, neonatal and child health are undermined. Lack of WASH facilities also results in unnecessary use of antibiotics, thereby spreading antimicrobial resistance. Current scenario According to a report, published this year by the World Health Organization and the UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) jointly, outlines WASH services in many facilities across the world are missing or substandard.  According to data from 2016, an estimated 896 million people globally had no water service at their healthcare facility.  More than 1.5 billion had no sanitation service.  One in every six healthcare facilities was estimated to have no hygiene service. While data on waste management and environmental cleaning was inadequate across the board. Need of WASH services  In WHO’s South-East Asia region, efforts to tackle the problem and achieve related Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets are being vigorously pursued.  Improving WASH services in health-care facilities is crucial to accelerating progress towards each of the region’s ‘flagship priorities’, especially the achievement of universal health coverage.  Improving WASH services was deemed essential to enhancing the quality of primary healthcare services, increasing equity and bridging the rural-urban divide. Resolution to provide WASH services  A World Health Assembly Resolution is hoping to catalyse domestic and external investments to help reach the global targets.  These include ensuring;  At least 60% of all healthcare facilities have basic WASH services by 2022;  At least 80% have the same by 2025; and  100% of all facilities provide basic WASH services by 2030. Way forward Member states should implement each of the WHO- and UNICEF-recommended practical steps.  Health authorities should conduct in-depth assessments and establish national standards and accountability mechanisms.  Across the region, and the world, a lack of quality baseline data limits authorities’ understanding of the problem.  Health authorities should create clear and measurable benchmarks that can be used to improve and maintain infrastructure and ensure that facilities are ‘fit to serve’. Health authorities should increase engagement and work to instil a culture of cleanliness and safety in all health-care facilities.  Alongside information campaigns that target facility administrators, all workers in the health system — from doctors and nurses to midwives and cleaners — should be made aware of, and made to practise, current WASH and infection prevention and control procedures (IPC).  Modules on WASH services and IPC should be included in pre-service training and as part of ongoing professional development.  In addition, authorities should work more closely with communities, especially in rural areas, to promote demand for WASH services. Authorities should ensure that collection of data on key WASH indicators becomes routine.  Doing so will help accelerate progress by promoting continued action and accountability.  It will also help spur innovation by documenting the links between policies and outcomes.  Conclusion As member states strive to achieve the ‘flagship priorities’ and work towards the SDG targets, that outcome is crucial. Indeed, whatever the healthcare facility, whoever the provider, and wherever it is located, securing safe health services is an objective member states must boldly pursue. Connecting the dots: Without adequate water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) amenities, infection control is severely compromised in India's heathcare system. Comment. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests. India and its neighborhood- relations. India's foreign policy needs rework in the next five years Introduction The geopolitical scenario of the world is changing and this has brought up new global issues for India deal with. Therefore, various aspects of India's foreign policy also is required to be changed to fit the changing geopolitics of the world. Earlier Scenario: Strategic autonomy In the past, India did manage a shift from non-alignment to multi-alignment.  We could improve our relations with the United States without jeopardising our long-term relationship with Russia. We could paper over our prickly relations with China without conceding too much ground; all the while maintaining our strategic independence. Current Scenario - Impact of U.S. conflict with Russia/ China  Deepening India-U.S. relations today again carry the danger of India becoming involved in a new kind of Cold War.  According to the author, the earlier policy of multi-alignment based on strategic autonomy has now become unsustainable.  Firstly, it is due to rise in confrontation between the US with Russia & China. And Secondly this earlier policy needs to be changed because of the recent policies of Donald Trump.  Even the definition of a liberal order seems to be undergoing changes. Recommendations: South Asia, the region of our highest priority, needs close attention. Began engagement with Pakistan. Involve India further in Afghanistan to secure India's interest in expected US withdrawal from Afghanistan. Ensure resistance to BRI among India's neighbours. Avoid alignment in the new Cold War between US with Russia and China. India should focus on developing disruptive technologies such as AI, cyber technology, etc as part of its defence policy. Focus and build India's economic power. India must ensure that it does not become a party to the conflicts and rivalries between the U.S. and a rising China, the heightened tensions between the U.S. and Russia, and also avoid becoming a pawn in the U.S.-Iran conflict. Connecting the dots: With the change in global political scenario, India must also change its strategy of foreign relations. Comment. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q1) River kosi flows flows through?  India , China and Nepal India and Nepal  India Nepal and Bhutan Only in India Q2) Chilla-Motichurelephant corridor is located in Bihar Uttarakhand Uttar Pradesh Assam Q3) National Green Tribunal (NGT) objectives provide effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection conservation of forests and other natural resources including enforcement of any legal right relating to environment protecting the tiger and elephant corridors Select the wrong statement from above only III both I and II all of the above none of the above Q4) Bacille Calmette-Guerin (BCG) is a vaccine related to Leprosy Tuberculosis Hepatitis B Measles Q5) ‘Blue Flag’ certification is for  Peace agreement between blue water nations An international recognition conferred on beaches that meet certain criteria of cleanliness and environmental propriety Cleaning up of oil spills in oceans Naval exercise between India and Singapore MUST READ Maritime challenges and opportunities Indian Express A test of law and justice The Hindu India must play a role in Afghan peace talks Livemint

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 27

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 27 Archives Q.1) ‘Limbuwan Region’ is part of which of the following states? Sikkim Jammu & Kashmir Bihar Madhya Pradesh Q.2) Uzbekistan is not bordered by which of the following countries? Kazakhstan  Russia Tajikistan  Afghanistan Q.3) Which of the following countries are doubly landlocked? Liechtenstein Lesotho Uzbekistan Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘SARFAESI Act’ It allows banks and financial institutions to recover their dues exceeding one lakh rupees by proceeding against secured assets of the borrower/guarantor without the intervention of the court/tribunals It allowed the creation of asset reconstruction companies (ARC) and allowed banks to sell their non-performing assets to ARCs. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) The Service Area Approach was implemented under the purview of Integrated Rural Programme Lead Bank Scheme Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme National Skill Development Mission To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 8th July to 14th July – 2019

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 8th  to 14th July – 2019 ARCHIVES GS-2 Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (Topic:  Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population 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 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources) Under Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY), deposit free LPG connection is provided in the name of an adult woman member of a poor family and the beneficiary has an option to avail connection with 14.2 kg or 5 kg cylinder. The existing beneficiary with 14.2 kg LPG cylinder has an option to swap with 5 kg cylinder also. Mantra: Swacch Indhan, Behtar Jeevan – Mahilaon ko mila samman As on 01.07.2019 – More than 10.27 crore prospective consumers filled their Know Your Customer (KYC) forms under PMUY, out of which more than 7.30 crore connections have been released. More than one crore LPG consumers have given up their subsidy under “GiveItUp” campaign. PAHAL Government has introduced well targeted system of subsidy delivery to LPG consumers through PAHAL. This initiative of the Government was aimed at rationalizing subsidies based on approach to cut subsidy leakages, but not subsidy per se. Applicable subsidy is directly transferred into the bank account of the beneficiaries. PAHAL has helped in identifying ‘ghost’ accounts, multiple accounts and inactive accounts. This has helped in curbing diversion of subsidised LPG to commercial purposes. Solve: Does there exist a direct relation of smokeless kitchens with economic development. Discuss. How far has the Ujjawala scheme been able to address the problems of rural women? Analyse. Why having an LPG connection important for woman empowerment? In this regard, do you think Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana can make a difference? Examine. Also discuss its other advantages. The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill – 2019 (Topic: General studies 2 Important aspects of governance, social justice Justice System General studies 3 Technology Security issues) The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill, 2018 has been introduced in the Parliament, with a view to creating a national DNA database for solving crimes and identifying missing persons. About the Bill: The purpose of the bill is to expand the application of DNA-based forensic technologies to support and strengthen the justice delivery system of the country. By providing for the mandatory accreditation and regulation of DNA laboratories, the Bill seeks to ensure that the DNA test results are reliable and the data remain protected from misuse or abuse in terms of the privacy rights of our citizens. Bill’s provisions will enable the cross-matching between persons who have been reported missing on the one hand and unidentified dead bodies found in various parts of the country on the other, and also for establishing the identity of victims in mass disasters. The Bill includes provisions for the destruction of DNA samples and removal of innocent people’s DNA profiles from the database. Criticism on DNA bill: Creating large databases is often not a cost-effective way to solve more crimes, and limited resources must be targeted effectively. Using DNA effectively during criminal investigations requires proper crime scene examination, trained and reliable policing, a trusted chain of custody of samples, reliable analysis, and proper use of expert evidence in court. Without these prerequisites, a DNA database will worsen rather than solve problems in the criminal justice system (false matches or misinterpretation or planting of evidence, etc.). The Bill’s proposed DNA Regulatory Board is still too powerful and insufficiently transparent or accountable. There are provisions which give the government or the Board the power to amend aspects of the safeguards in the Bill, and to avoid accountability in court. A number of other privacy protections are also missing — the need to restrict DNA profiling so that it uses only non-coding DNA, a commonly used international standard for one. There is no attempt to assess the cost effectiveness of these provisions or to estimate the database’s likely size. Way Forward: Consideration should be given to an independent forensic science regulator. An independent ethics board should be set up. The Board’s responsibilities for privacy protections need an independent regulator. Privacy or data protection bill should be adopted first. Any international sharing of DNA profiles should also be covered by a privacy or data protection law, and meet international human rights standards. There should be separate the databases for missing persons and for criminals set up by the Bill, so that people who volunteer their DNA to help find their missing relatives are not treated as suspects for criminal offences. It is needed to specify that volunteers must be fully informed about future storage and uses of their genetic information before they give consent. International evidence shows that the success of a DNA database is driven primarily by the number of crime scene DNA profiles loaded on to it, not by the number of DNA profiles from individuals, so proper crime scene analysis should be the top priority. Cabinet approves  The Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Bill 2019: The Bill will benefit a large number of transgender persons, mitigate the stigma, discrimination and abuse against this marginalized section and bring them into the mainstream of society. This will lead to inclusiveness and will make the transgender persons productive members of the society. Amendment in the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012: It will make punishment more stringent for committing sexual crimes against children including death penalty. The amendments also provide for levy of fines and imprisonment to curb child pornography. Impact The amendment is expected to discourage the trend of child sexual abuse by acting as a deterrent due to strong penal provisions incorporated in the Act. It intends to protect the interest of vulnerable children in times of distress and ensures their safety and dignity. The amendment is aimed to establish clarity regarding the aspects of child abuse and punishment thereof. Background The POCSO Act, 2012 was enacted to Protect the Children from Offences of Sexual Assault, Sexual harassment and pornography with due regard for safeguarding the interest and well-being of children. The Act defines a child as any person below eighteen years of age, and regards the best interests and welfare of the child as matter of paramount importance at every stage, to ensure the healthy physical, emotional, intellectual and social development of the child. The act is gender neutral. Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2019: The Bill will help tackle the menace of illicit deposit taking activities in the country, which at present are exploiting regulatory gaps and lack of strict administrative measures to dupe poor and gullible people of their hard-earned savings Code on Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Bill, 2019: This proposal would enhance the coverage of the safety, health and working conditions provisions manifold as compared to the present scenario. The decision will enhance the coverage of the safety, health and working conditions provisions manifold as compared to the present scenario. The New Code has been drafted after amalgamation, simplification and rationalisation of the relevant provisions of the 13 Central Labour Acts: The Factories Act, 1948; The Mines Act, 1952; The Dock Workers (Safety, Health and Welfare) Act, 1986; The Building and Other Construction Workers (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1996; The Plantations Labour Act, 1951; The Contract Labour (Regulation and Abolition) Act, 1970; The Inter-State Migrant workmen (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 1979; The Working Journalist and other Newspaper Employees (Conditions of Service and Misc. Provision) Act, 1955; The Working Journalist (Fixation of rates of wages) Act, 1958; The Motor Transport Workers Act, 1961; Sales Promotion Employees (Condition of Service) Act, 1976; The Beedi and Cigar Workers (Conditions of Employment) Act, 1966; and The Cine Workers and Cinema Theatre Workers Act, 1981. After the enactment of the Code, all these Acts being subsumed in the Code will be repealed. Benefits: Safety, Health, welfare and improved Working Conditions are pre-requisite for well-being of the worker and also for economic growth of the country as healthy workforce of the country would be more productive and occurrence of less accidents and unforeseen incidents would be economically beneficial to the employers also. With the ultimate aim of extending the safety and healthy working conditions to all workforce of the country, the Code enhances the ambit of provisions of safety, health, welfare and working conditions from existing about 9 major sectors to all establishments having 10 or more employees. GS-3 Challenges Faced by the Dairy Industry On GST: As per Goods and Services Tax Act 2017, the current rate of GST applicable on dairy products ranges from 5% to 18%. The Department has received representations from stakeholders like Indian Dairy Association and Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation Limited, to reduce GST on some dairy products like ghee, butteroil and flavoured milk and to reduce import duty on some dairy machinery. Indian cattle and buffaloes have among the lowest productivity in the world. Similarly there is a shortage of organized dairy farms and there is a need of high degree of investment to take dairy industry to global standards. To improve low productivity of indigenous bovine breeds, Department has been implementing Rashtriya Gokul Mission with aim of development and conservation of indigenous bovine breeds and enhancing production and productivity thereby making milk production more remunerative to the farmers. In order to promote organized dairy farming and investment, Department of Animal Husbandry And Dairying, Government of India has been supplementing the efforts of State Governments by implementing following dairy development schemes for creation/ strengthening of infrastructure for production of quality milk, procurement, processing and marketing of milk and milk products across the country: National Programme for Dairy Development (NPDD) Dairy Entrepreneurship Development Scheme (DEDS) iii. National Dairy Plan-I (NDP-I) Dairy Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF) Supporting Dairy Cooperatives and Farmer Producer Organizations engaged in dairy activities (SDCFPO) Must Read: Contribution of Dairy Farming in the Economy Solve: What are the upstream requirements of the dairy sector? Examine the existing levels of backward and forward linkages in the dairy sector. Dairy farming is a source of income and nutrition to a large number of Indian families. What are the typical features of the dairy sector in India? What are the problems being faced by the sector? Also, suggest a roadmap for improving the performance of the dairy sector. Dairy farming can’t sustain itself without a vibrant livestock processing industry. Comment. Prelims oriented News Gold in Women's 100m Sprint: Dutee Chand India-based Neutrino Observatory (INO): At Pottipuram in the Theni District of Tamil Nadu The project aims to set up a 51000 ton Iron Calorimeter (ICAL) detector to observe naturally occurring atmospheric neutrinos in a cavern at the end of an approximately 2 km long tunnel in a mountain. This will help to reduce the noise from cosmic rays that is ever present over-ground and which would outnumber the rare neutrino interactions even in a detector as large as ICAL. The INO project does not disturb the ecosystem around the site and does not release any radiation, as it does not have any radioactive substance. It measures cosmic rays. There is no other neutrino detector anywhere in India at present. ICAL at INO would be the first of its type. Child Labour: As per information received from the District Project Societies set up under the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme, a total number of 320488 children were rescued from all forms of child labour, and were rehabilitated and mainstreamed to formal education system during the last five years. National Translation Mission (NTM) is a scheme launched in 2008 which is being implemented through the Central Institute of Indian Languages (CIIL), Mysore to establish translation as an industry in general and to facilitate higher education by making knowledge texts accessible to students and academics in Indian languages. Under the scheme, the books of knowledge texts mostly text books of various subjects prescribed in Universities and Colleges are being translated in all Languages of the 8th Schedule of the Constitution of India.  Operation Thirst – An All India Drive to crack down selling of unauthorised Packaged Drinking Water “Silk Samagra” through Central Silk Board:  It focuses on improving quality and productivity of domestic silk thereby reducing the country’s dependence on imported silk.  Under the scheme, assistance is extended to sericulture stakeholders for the beneficiary oriented components like, raising of Kissan nursery, plantation with improved Mulberry varieties, Irrigation, chawki rearing centres with incubation facility, construction of rearing houses, rearing equipment, door to door service agents for disinfection and input supply, support for Improved reeling units like Automatic Reeling units, multi-end Reeling machines, Improved Twisting machines and support for post yarn facilities for quality silk and fabric production. Under North East Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS) implemented to promote Textile Industry in the North East Region by the Ministry of Textiles, 38 Sericulture projects have been implemented in the identified potential districts under three broad categories viz., Integrated Sericulture Development Project (ISDP) and Intensive BivoltineSericulture Development Project andAspirational Districts. Swadhar Greh Scheme for rehabilitation of women in difficult circumstances.  The scheme covers women who are deserted and without any social and economic support, women victims of domestic violence, family tension and natural disaster. Model Tenancy Act’, 2019  It envisages to balance the interest and rights of both the owner and tenant and to create an accountable and transparent ecosystem for renting the premises in disciplined and efficient manner.  It will enable creation of adequate rental housing stock for various income segments of society including migrants, formal and informal sector workers, professionals, students etc. and increase access to quality rented accommodation, enable gradual formalization of rental housing market.   It will help overhaul the legal framework vis-à-vis rental housing across the country.  It is also expected to give a fillip to private participation in rental housing for addressing the huge housing shortage across the country. As per Census 2011, nearly 1.1 crore houses were lying vacant in the country and making these houses available on rent will complement the vision of ‘Housing for All’ by 2022. Buddhist Circuit: One of the fifteen thematic circuits for development under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme. All sites in the country related to Buddhism are covered under this Circuit. Menstrual Hygiene Scheme for Adolescent Girls (aged 10 – 19) Increasing awareness among adolescent girls on menstrual hygiene Improving access to and use of high quality sanitary napkins by adolescent girls residing primarily in rural areas Ensuring safe disposal of sanitary napkins in an environmentally friendly manner Provision of funds to ASHAs to hold monthly meetings with adolescents to discuss issues related to menstrual hygiene. Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana-lll (PMGSY-III)  It involves consolidation of Through Routes and Major Rural Links connecting habitations to Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), Higher Secondary Schools and Hospitals. Under the PMGSY-III Scheme, it is proposed to consolidate 1,25,000 Km road length in the States.The Scheme will also include Through Routes and Major Rural Links that connect habitations to Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), Higher Secondary Schools and Hospitals. Impact This would facilitate easy and faster movement to and from Gramin Agricultural Markets (GrAMs), Higher Secondary Schools and Hospitals. Roads constructed under PMGSY would also be maintained properly. Witness Protection Scheme, 2018 provides for protection of witnesses based on the threat assessment and protection measures inter alia include protection/change of identity of witnesses, their relocation, installation of security devices at the residence of witnesses, usage of specially designed Court rooms, etc. The Scheme provides for three categories of witness as per threat perception: Category 'A': Where the threat extends to life of witness or his family members, during investigation/trial or thereafter. Category 'B': Where the threat extends to safety, reputation or property of the witness or his family members, during the investigation/trial or thereafter. Category 'C': Where   the   threat   is   moderate   and   extends   to harassment or intimidation of the witness or his family member's, reputation          or property, during the investigation/trial or thereafter. Creation of Gaganyaan National Advisory Council The Gaganyaan project is on track to be realized by the 75th Independence day or earlier. The design and configuration of major subsystems are finalised. The qualification tests pertaining to human rating of flight systems has commenced and Cryogenic Engine tests are in progress. The crew training plan is finalised and the crew selection process has commenced. Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) Bill Articles 15(6) and 16(6) have been inserted in the Constitution, vide the Constitution (One Hundred and Third Amendment) Act, 2019.  This enables the State to provide the benefits of reservation on preferential basis to the Economically Weaker Sections (EWSs) in civil posts and services in the Government of India and admission in Educational Institutions.  Accordingly, the provision for 10% reservation to the EWS was implemented by the Government in January 2019.   Instructions have been issued by the Ministry of HRD for increasing the total number of seats over a period of two years, to provide for 10% EWS reservation, without adversely affecting the proportionate seats of SCs, STs and OBCs.  An amount of Rs.4315.15 crores has been sanctioned for creation of additional 2,14,766 seats (1,18,983 additional seats during 2019-20 and 9,783 additional seats during 2020-21) in 158 Central Educational Institutions. 10% reservation under EWS category is applicable to those persons who are not covered under the existing scheme of reservations for the Scheduled Castes, the Scheduled Tribes and the Socially and Educationally Backward Classes. Women in Agriculture As per Agriculture Census conducted at an interval of every five years by the Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare, the percentage of female operational holdings in the country have increased from 12.78 percent during 2010-11 to 13.78 percent during 2015-16. Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP), which is a sub-component of Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAY-NRLM): The primary objective of MKSP is to empower women by enhancing their participation in agriculture and to create sustainable livelihood opportunities for them. Funding support to the tune of up to 60% (90% for North Eastern States) for such projects is provided by the Government of India. The Department of Agriculture Cooperation and Farmers Welfare is also promoting mainstreaming of Gender Concerns in agriculture by ensuring flow of funds and benefits to the tune of 30% for women farmers under its beneficiary oriented Schemes and Programmes.  Besides, Government is providing additional support and assistance to women farmers, over and above the male farmers under a few selected Schemes. LaQshya” (Labour room Quality improvement Initiative) to improve quality of care in labour room and maternity operation theatres in public health facilities. It’s a multipronged approach focused at Intrapartum and immediate postpartum period. Aim: To reduce preventable maternal and newborn mortality, morbidity and stillbirths associated with the care around delivery in Labour room and Maternity Operation Theatre and ensure respectful maternity care. Objectives: To reduce maternal and newborn mortality & morbidity due to hemorrhage, retained placenta, preterm, preeclampsia and eclampsia, obstructed labour, puerperal sepsis, newborn asphyxia, and newborn sepsis, etc. To improve Quality of care during the delivery and immediate post-partum care, stabilization of complications and ensure timely referrals, and enable an effective two-way follow-up system. To enhance satisfaction of beneficiaries visiting the health facilities and provide Respectful Maternity Care (RMC) to all pregnant women attending the public health facilities. Following types of healthcare facilities have been identified for implementation of LaQshya program Government medical college hospitals District Hospitals & equivalent health facilities Designated FRUs and high case load CHCs with over 100 deliveries/month ( 60 in hills and desert areas) Conservation of Mural Paintings A mural is any piece of artwork painted or applied directly on a wall, ceiling or other large permanent surface. Murals are important in that they bring art into the public sphere. Since these projects used to be huge and time consuming, they were commissioned by local government or patrons. IGNCA, an autonomous organisation under this Ministry is actively involved in the Government's endeavor for conservation of Mural Paintings and ancient folk paintings which are on the verge of extinction.  'The Condition of Buddhist Wall Painting Sites in Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh (Tribal and Backward Areas)’ aimed to develop a laboratory in Ladakh in collaboration with the partner institute especially for Himalayan material - thangkha and manuscript, with wall painting as a super specialty.  In the first phase of this project, conservations work of Maitreay Temple (Hunder- Nurba), Karsha Monastery – Nyingm/lakhangand Gonkhang- Thiksey monastery had been completed. Saboo and Diskit Monasteries have a sizeable collection of tangkha that are not in use for puja. IGNCA has signed MOU with Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (a Deemed University), Leh, Ladakh to explore, research, and for field work and capacity building programme in this domain.  In Jammu and Kashmir, the conservation work of Karsha Monastery- Nyingma Lakhang, Gonkhang- Thiksey monastery and in Himachal Pradesh, conservation work of Maitreay Temple (Hunder- Nurba), Saboo and Diskit monasteries has been done by IGNCA. Must Read: Later Mural Traditions Qn:  What information of about the contemporary society is provided by Ajanta Paintings? How are murals different from frescoes? National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020 A National Mission document providing the vision and the roadmap for the faster adoption of electric vehicles and their manufacturing in the country. This plan has been designed to enhance national fuel security, to provide affordable and environmentally friendly transportation and to enable the Indian automotive industry to achieve global manufacturing leadership. As part of the NEMMP 2020, Department of Heavy Industry formulated a Scheme viz. Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme in the year 2015 to promote manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology and to ensure sustainable growth of the same. The 1st Phase of FAME India Scheme was implemented through four focus areas namely  (i) Demand Creation (ii) Technology Platform (iii) Pilot Project (iv) Charging Infrastructure Under the NEMMP 2020, there is an ambitious target to achieve 6-7 million sales of hybrid and electric vehicles by the year 2020. Based on the experience gained in the Phase-I of FAME India Scheme, it has been observed that sufficient number of charging infrastructure is required to achieve expected outcome of the plan, which is being addressed presently in Phase-II of FAME Scheme. Various initiatives have been taken by the Government to promote electric mobility in the country. Some of them are summarized here under: Under new GST regime, the rates of GST on Electric Vehicles has been kept in the lower bracket of 12% (with no Cess) as against the 28% GST rate with Cess up to 22% for conventional vehicles. Ministry of Power has allowed sale of electricity as ‘service’ for charging of electric vehicles. This would provide a huge incentive to attract investments into charging infrastructure. Ministry of Road Transport Highways issued notification regarding exemption of permit in case of battery operated vehicles. Issue of Expression of Interest (EoI) for deployment of 5000 electric buses by State Transport Departments/Undertakings etc. Quotes The Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu On Indian Culture & Ancient Knowledge India needs a cultural renaissance, a large scale awareness and knowledge-sharing movement to bring the best in the Indian thought to the common man. Indians have been fortunate that spiritual leaders like Adi Shankaracharya and Swami Vivekananda have shaped our country’s ethical foundations. The pieces of wisdom initially written by Adi Shankaracharya in Prashnottara Ratnamalika have universal relevance irrespective of religion or community and they represent the ethical and moral perspectives underpinning the Indian world view. Schools and colleges across the country should take the lead along with non-governmental organisations like Vedanta Bharati to spread the universal message of tolerance, inclusion, harmony, peace, well-being, righteous conduct, excellence and empathy that recurs in the Indian spiritual tradition with resounding clarity. Personality in News Adi Shankaracharya – Hinduism’s Greatest Thinker Was an early 8th century Indian philosopher and theologian who consolidated the doctrine of Advaita Vedanta He is credited with unifying and establishing the main currents of thought in Hinduism His works in Sanskrit discuss the unity of the ātman and Nirguna Brahman “brahman without attributes”. He also explained the key difference between Hinduism and Buddhism, stating that Hinduism asserts “Atman (Soul, Self) exists”, while Buddhism asserts that there is “no Soul, no Self”. He is reputed to have founded four mathas (“monasteries”), which helped in the historical development, revival and spread of Advaita Vedanta of which he is known as the greatest revivalist On Women: Adi Shankaracharya opens his beautiful hymn called “Saundarya Lahari” (The wave of beauty; a set of shlokas) with a clear statement on how Lord Shiva is totally powerless without his wife Shakthi. One complements the other. Qn: Assess the contribution of Adi Shankara in the development of Hindu philosophy. Swami Vivekananda Swami Vivekananda’s ideas of universal tolerance, compassion, and concern for the poor are as relevant today as they were during his lifetime.  Was born Narendra Nath Datta, on 12th January, 1863. He was the chief disciple of Sri Ramakrishna Paramhansa. He introduced Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the Western world and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, bringing Hinduism to the world stage during the late 19th century. Represented India in the first Parliament of Religion held in Chicago (U.S.) in 1893. Some of his quotes: Arise awake and stop not till the goal is reached — Swami Vivekananda (This quote can be used in Ethics/Essay answers dealing with Hope/Corruption/Faith) One ounce of practice is worth twenty thousand tons of big talk (Swami Vivekananda – This quote can be used to conclude almost every essay). “It is impossible to think about the welfare of the world unless the condition of women is improved. It is impossible for a bird to fly on only one wing” – Swami Vivekananda. (On women empowerment) All nations have attained greatness by paying proper respect to women. That country and that nation which do not respect women have never become great, nor will ever be in future. “All the different religions are but applications of the one religion adapted to suite the requirements of different nations”. – Swami Vivekananda. (on Religion) “If in this hell of a world one can bring a little joy & peace even for a day into the heart of a single person, that much alone is true; this I have learnt after suffering all my life, all else is mere moonshine” – Swami Vivekananda (on serving Humanity) “We want that education by which character is formed, strength of mind is increased, the intellect is expanded and by which one can stand on one’s own feet.” Two excerpts from Swami Vivekananda’s letters to Sister Nivedita, written in Sanskrit, translated to English reads – “Tougher than rocks; more tender than flowers”. It points to Swamiji’s ability to balance the idealism of his work with the practical aspects of everyday life. “A person who does good to others, never meets a bad end …” Karma Yoga and Niskama Karma – In this he emphasized the selflessness of an individual in all his endeavors.Today, when the world around us engulfed in acts of sheer selfishness, his teachings can show a new path. Love and compassion as the law of life – He emphasized on loving all living beings and to be compassionate and sensitive towards sufferings. He said that – “So long as millions live in poverty and hunger, I consider every person a traitor who, having been educated at their expense, pays not the least heed to them” He believed that every Indian must work hard to uplift the millions from the clutches of poverty and superstitions. Note: National Youth Festival is celebrated every year on the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda – January 12 For supporting single girl child, a special scholarship is Swami Vivekananda Single Girl Child Scholarship for Research in Social Science. Belur Math in Kolkata is built by Swami Vivekananda. Vedanta It was based on Upanishads and their interpretation. Its aim was to enquire about ‘Brahman’ (ultimate reality) which was the central concept of Upanishads. It saw Veda as the ultimate source of information and whose authority could not be questioned. It emphasized on path of knowledge (jnana) as opposed to that of sacrifice (karma). Ultimate aim of knowledge was 'Moksha' i.e. liberation from 'sansara'. Qns:  What lessons have you learnt from the life and ideas of Swami Vivekanand? How do you apply them in your daily life? We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts, we make the world. Comment. Do you find the ideas of Swami Vivekananda relevant today? Examine. “There is no chance for the welfare of the world unless the condition of woman is improved. It is not possible for a bird to fly on only one wing.” Comment. Be the Servant of all, and do not try in the least to govern other. Nobody will come to help you if you will put yourself forward as a leader. Kill self first, if you want to lead. Discuss. Celebrating 550th birth Anniversary of Guru Nanak Devji Born in 1469 in Nankana Sahib, Pakistan He advocated nirguna bhakti He firmly repudiated practices of religions around him like sacrifices, ritual baths, idol worship, austerities, and scriptures of both Hindus and Muslims. He took the god as formless which has no gender and proposed a simple way to connect to him by just remembering and repeating his name. He set up rules for congregational worship (sangat) involving collective recitation. He appointed Angad to succeed him as the Guru. He never wished to establish new religion, but after his death his followers consolidated his practices and distinguished from both Hindus and Muslims by calling themselves ‘Sikhs’. Fifth Guru Arjandev Ji compiled Guru Nanak, his successor, and other religious poets teaching in Adi Granth Sahib. Values & teaching of Guru Nanak and present social challenges — The time in which Guru Nanak lived and present time are not very different. Back then, caste system, idol worship, exploitation of poor and women, intolerance towards other religions, fraud godman, addiction of drugs and other problems were prevalent. Unfortunately, all of them are present today also. Some basic teachings of Guru Nanak were — Submission to the will of God (Waheguru) One God Goodwill for all Speaking truth Social Service Overcoming 5 evils — Ego, Anger, Greed, Attachment and Lust Adopting 5 virtues — Truth, Compassion, Contentment, Discipline and Contemplation No discrimination Stop following rituals/idol worship/superstitions Guru Nanak opined that moral principles have great value not just in thinking but also in practical orientation in society. Therefore, social philosophy of Guru Nanak was primarily based on moral philosophy with support of religious outlook. His teaching hold great value today in overcoming caste and religious discrimination, intolerance of other views, corruption, addiction of alcohol and drugs, clash of civilisations, terrorism and other social evils. Problem with today’s generation is we have limited Guru Nanak and his teaching just to Guru Granth Sahib and have not adopted it, i.e., moral philosophy is lacking. Therefore, there is a strong need to revive the values and teachings of Guru Nanak. Kartarpur corridor Founding stone for the four-lane “human corridor” i.e. Kartarpur corridor was laid, it is to be completed by November 23, 2019 A public rally was organised for the event in the border town of Dera Baba Nanak, just 2 km from the International Border with Pakistan. It is hoped that the corridor would pave the way for peace and greater progress of all people. The corridor will drastically cut down the journey pilgrims have to make from more than 200 km to just 6 km. The gurdwara in Kartarpur stands on the bank of the Ravi, about 120 km northeast of Lahore. It was here that Guru Nanak assembled a Sikh community and lived for 18 years until his death in 1539. The shrine is visible from the Indian side, Sikhs gather in large numbers for darshan from the Indian side, and binoculars are installed at Gurdwara Dera Baba Nanak. Access to gurdwaras in Pakistan: Sikh jathas from India travel to Pakistan on four occasions every year — for Baisakhi, the martyrdom day of Guru Arjan Dev, the death anniversary of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, and the birthday of Guru Nanak Dev. These Indian pilgrims are given access to all gurdwaras in Pakistan.

Important Articles

Orientation Session for ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL by VISHNU VARDHAN Sir will be held on 20th July, 2019 (Saturday)

Orientation Session for ANTHROPOLOGY OPTIONAL by VISHNU VARDHAN Sir will be held on 20th July, 2019 (Saturday) Timings:11 am - 1 pm   Anthropology subject is the unique discipline which deals about you and me(Human beings) In this optional we will be studying about ourselves historically, culturally and comparatively mainly regarding social aspects, cultural aspects and biological aspects. In anthropology we have 2 papers, one paper deals about General Anthropology and the 2nd paper about Indian anthropology. These 2 papers cover socio-cultural aspects of man in general and India in particular Anthropological thought and thinkers and their theories applications create interest while reading about man and his culture. In Physical anthropology everybody thinks that it is favorable to science students, but is 100% false notions. The answers of physical anthropology should not be in biology context but it should be written in cultural point of view. To Unbox the Anthropology syllabus and how to choose the optional and why to choose the anthropology as the optional, we at IASBABA are conducting an OPEN FOR ALL Orientation session on how to approach and plan for scoring high in Anthropology optional. The Session will be taken by Vishnu Vardhan Sir (a Topper himself in Anthropology in UPSC 2012, 2014, 2015) M.A (Anthropology) pursuing Ph.D. in Anthropology discipline. Did field work on Saora tribal community in Odisha. Associated with CSB Ias academy, Hyderabad, Fortune Ias Trivandrum, Unacademy Plus and now at IASBABA, Bangalore. VISHNU VARDHAN regularly submits articles to Anthropological Society of India as well.   KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THE ORIENTATION: As many of you know the importance of optional in ensuring your success in the UPSC mains, Optional will be the deciding factor whether you will be selected or not into the Elite services of India. This orientation session will ensure Why to choose ANTHROPOLOGY as optional. How to tackle Anthropology answer writing. How Anthropology is helpful in ensuring high marks in Essay, GS-1 and Ethics. (only optional with guaranteed multidimensional application) Why ANTHROPOLOGY IS 80% static and 20% dynamic The Mantra to unveil the reason behind how people scored more than 300 easily. Anthropology is interesting, fun and highly scoring if preparation is done in the right way.   Feedback: https://www.quora.com/How-is-Vishnu-Vardhan-sir-classes-for-anthropology-at-CSB-IAS-Academy-Hyderabad   For Complete Details and Feedback of the of the Optional Classroom Programme - CLICK HERE   TIME and VENUE: The Orientation Session is OPEN FOR ALL!! 20th July, 2019 (Saturday) from 11 am - 1 pm Vijayanagar Centre: 1737/ 37, MRCR Layout, Vijayanagar Service Road, Vijaynagar, Bengaluru-560040   For any Queries: You can also reach us on Email id: support@iasbaba.com Mobile No.:   9035077800   Thank You IASbaba

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 26

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 26 Archives Q.1)  The term ‘HR 1044’ was in news recently. It associated with which of the following? European Union United States of America Great Britain China Q.2)  Which of the following States is the first to have a State Water Policy to ensure conservation of Water? Meghalaya Maharashtra Karnataka Tamil Nadu Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Merchant Discount Rate’ It is the sum total of all the charges and taxes that a digital payment entails. The cost of MDR is transferred and incurred by the customers Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) ‘Protection of Plant Varieties and Farmers’ Rights Act, 2001’ talks about which of the following rights? Breeders’ Rights Researchers’ Rights Farmers’ Rights Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Draft Model Tenancy Act (MTA)’ It provides for its applicability only in urban areas A landowner cannot cut power and water supply in case of a dispute with the tenant Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Important Articles

Orientation Session for GEOGRAPHY OPTIONAL by ATYAB ALI ZAIDI will be held on 20th July, 2019 (Saturday)

Orientation Session for GEOGRAPHY OPTIONAL by ATYAB ALI ZAIDI will be held on 20th July, 2019 (Saturday) Timings - 9am - 11 am   The purpose of this write up is twofold – to help you understand the merits of Geography as an optional and to share the details of the comprehensive Geography Offline Classroom Programme. But before we let you know the merits of Geography as an optional, please remove the notions and biases from your mind that might have developed as a result of your discussions on various online forums and maybe with your friends and seniors. UPSC doesn’t intentionally “butcher” a subject. All the optionals have their distinct advantages and drawbacks but by no stretch of imagination would UPSC give preference to one optional over the other. What may happen though is that some optionals might have scored more than the others in a particular year but that trend gets reversed also. That is the unpredictability of the Civil Services Examination that we have to live with. In fact, till the time optionals remain a part of CSE, this unpredictability will remain. So, learn to live with it rather than blaming it. Most of the times, the answers to one’s failure or unexpected performance lies within and not externally. So the message is clear for all the sceptics-   Before blaming UPSC for it’s so called “bias” for or against any optional, try to find the reasons of not doing well by looking inward! So coming to the point, let us enumerate the merits of Geography as an optional to help you decide whether it’s the subject for you: Geography is scoring: If you maintain the essence of Geography in your answers, it will definitely fetch you good marks in Mains. Geography is interesting: You will have a fun ride with geography as most of the concepts relate to the physical and social environment of which you are an integral part. Geography has maximum overlap with GS syllabus: If you prepare Geography optional, more than 30-40% of your GS syllabus is automatically prepared. Moreover, you develop better perspectives for Essay paper and interview as well. Geography is logic driven and scientific: Unlike some other humanities subjects, study of Geography entails logic, scientific theories and empirical evidences. This makes Geography easy to understand and apply. Geography has abundance of sources to refer: There is no dearth of quality materials and good books in Geography. You don’t have to dig too much into bookstores to find good books on Geography.   We at IASBABA are conducting an OPEN FOR ALL Orientation session on how to approach and plan for scoring high in Geography optional. The Session will be taken by Atyab Ali Zaidi Sir (One of the highest scorers in Geography in the year 2012 and 2013), an Alumni of NIT Allahabad, Chemical Engineering and Associated with IASBABA since its inception. He has been mentoring UPSC aspirants since past 5 years and many of his students have qualified this prestigious exam with flying colours.  The testimony of the quality of the classes is the following feedback comments provided by the students of the last year’s batch.   The KEY TAKEAWAYS from the session: Understanding whether geography is suitable for you as an optional or not. How to score well in geography Basic ideology of the subject and its evolution. Important sources to refer. How to evolve a geographic bent of mind so that you can tackle dynamic questions with conceptual clarity Basic concepts of geography that will help in GS as well as Optional How to use geography to score well in Essay and GS paper 1, 2 and 3.   FEEDBACK of Geography Optional Class:                             For Complete Details and Feedback of the of the Optional Classroom Programme - CLICK HERE   TIME and VENUE: The Orientation Session is OPEN FOR ALL!! 20th July, 2019 (Saturday) from 9 am - 11 am Vijayanagar Centre: 1737/ 37, MRCR Layout, Vijayanagar Service Road, Vijaynagar, Bengaluru-560040   For any Queries: You can also reach us on Email id: support@iasbaba.com Mobile No.:   9035077800   Thank You IASbaba

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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Visa-free year-long access for pilgrims to Kartarpur Sahib Part of Prelims and mains GS II International Relations  In news Pakistan agreed to give year-long visa-free access for Indian pilgrims to the holy Gurdwara of Kartarpur Sahib. It was agreed to allow visa-free travel for the Indian passport-holders and OCI card-holders seven days a week. Do you know? The Kartarpur Corridor is a proposed border corridor between the neighbouring nations of India and Pakistan, connecting the Sikh shrines of Dera Baba Nanak Sahib (located in Punjab, India) and GurdwaraDarbar Sahib Kartarpur (in Punjab, Pakistan). Currently under planning, the corridor is intended to allow religious devotees from India to visit the Gurdwara in Kartarpur, 4.7 kilometres (2.9 miles) from the Pakistan-India border, without a visa. The Kartarpur Corridor was first proposed in early 1999 by the prime ministers of India and Pakistan, Atal Bihari Vajpayee and Nawaz Sharif, respectively, as part of the Delhi–Lahore Bus diplomacy. The corridor will reportedly be completed before the 550th birth anniversary of Guru Nanak Dev in November 2019. Currently pilgrims from India have to take a bus to Lahore to get to Kartarpur, which is a 125 km journey, despite the fact that people on the Indian side of the border can physically see GurdwaraDarbar Sahib Kartarpur on the Pakistani side. An elevated platform has also been constructed for the same on the Indian side, where people use binoculars to get a good view. India set for new lunar trophy hunt Part of Prelims and mains GS III Science and Tech  In news Indian mission takes its first step towards touching the moon, with a leggy lander and a six-wheeled rover. The mission will hunt for minerals and water ice deposits that Chandrayaan-1 confirmed. Chandrayaan-2’s journey, beginning at 2.51 a.m. on Monday, will last about 52 days. When it lands on the moon, Chandrayaan-2 will make India the fourth country to safely land on lunar terrain.  No space agency has landed on the south pole of the moon to date, making the landing spot also historic. About Chandrayaan-2 Chandrayaan-2 Called to be the most complex mission from India so far.  Chandrayaan-2 will have two modules stacked together inside a launch vehicle — an orbiter and a lander. It will have a third module, the lunar rover. ISRO has named the lander ‘Vikram’, after India’s space pioneer Vikram Sarabhai and rover 'Pragyan', which in Sanskrit means wisdom. The heavy-lift rocket Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle - Mark III (GSLV Mk III), which will carry Chandryaan-2 to the Moon, is nicknamed as 'Baahubali'. The first Indian lunar mission to land on Moon is being headed by two women — mission director RituKaridhal and the project director MuthayyaVanitha. Chandrayaan-2 Moon mission will explore for signs of water and helium-3 on the lunar surface and analyze crust samples. The rover will send pictures of the lunar surface within 20 minutes of landing. Tirupati may run out of water in a month Part of Prelims and mains GS III Environment and ecology In news The temple city, which attracts thousands of pilgrims every day, will run out of water in a month, if the monsoon continues to remain elusive. At present, residents receive water in their taps once in three days. With Kalyani dam reaching the dead storage level. After, Bangluru, Chandigarh, and Chennai, Tirupati will be the next Indian city to face water crisis.  Nearly half of sex offence cases not being investigated in time Part of Prelims and mains GS II Social Justice  In news Investigation into nearly half the sexual offences cases are not being completed within the stipulated 60-day period, according to an analysis of crime data of seven States.  In many States, the fast-track courts designated to handle rape cases are also handling other criminal cases leading to delay in verdicts. The Supreme Court noted that trial had been completed in only 4% of the 24,000 cases of sexual offences that were filed from January to June. Steps Taken by Government The Home Ministry launched an analytics tool — Investigation Tracking System for Sexual Offences (ITSSO) to monitor and track time-bound investigation. It is part of the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network and System (CCTNS) that connects over 15,000 police stations across the country. To check sexual crimes against women and children, the Centre approved the Criminal Law (Amendment) Act, 2018 last year which prescribed the time-limit for completion of investigation. Speed restrictions and sound alerts mooted for protection of dolphins Part of Prelims and mains GS III Environment and ecology  In news Restricting the speeds of vessels and blowing sirens and horns is how the Ministry of Shipping plans to safeguard the population of the Ganges River Dolphin, in the country’s one dolphin reserve through which National Waterway-1 connecting Haldia to Varanasi passes. The other mitigation measures, according to the Ministry, include fitting vessels with propeller guards and dolphin deflectors to minimise dolphin accidents and using non-toxic paints for painting vessels. The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (VGDS) The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (VGDS), from Sultanganj to Kahalganj on the Ganga in Bihar is the only dolphin sanctuary in the country. Experts have pegged the population of the Ganges dolphin in VGDS from 150 to 200. The habitat of the Ganges dolphin is not limited to the sanctuary. Criticism Dolphins are difficult to spot and even after they are spotted if sirens are sounded it will not only disturb them more but also a number of other migratory birds and aquatic fauna. Do you know? About Gangetic Dolphin Ganges River Dolphin is placed under “Endangered Category” in the IUCN Red List.  The Ganges River dolphin, or susu, inhabits the Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna and Karnaphuli-Sangu river systems of Nepal, India, and Bangladesh.  It is threatened by removal of river water and siltation arising from deforestation, pollution and entanglement in fisheries nets, etc. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 3 Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment. Ecological perils of discounting the future Background  In a report last year, the Comptroller and Auditor General of India (CAG) called the Chennai floods of 2015 a “manmade disaster”, a pointer to how the encroachment of lakes and river floodplains has driven India’s sixth largest city to this ineluctable situation.  The Chennai floods are a symbol of consistent human failings and poor urban design which are common to most urban centres in India if not urban centres across the world.  Now, Chennai is in the midst of another crisis — one of water scarcity. Visibility of environmental degradation  Unlike issues such as traffic congestion or crime which are visible, environmental degradation is not what most people can easily see or feel in their every day lives.  Therefore, when the consequences of such degradation begin to wreak havoc, it becomes difficult to draw the correlation between nature’s revenge with human failings.  Causes of Water crisis throughout India  In Chennai, more than 30 waterbodies of significance have disappeared in the past century.  Concretisation or the increase in paved surfaces has affected the percolation of rainwater into the soil, thereby depleting groundwater levels to a point of no return. Urbanisation without vision; Urbanisation at the cost of reclaiming water bodies is a pan-India phenomenon.  In Bengaluru, 15 lakes have lost their ecological character in less than five years according to a High Court notice.  The lakes, which are now encroached areas, find use as a bus stand, a stadium and, quite ironically, as an office of the Pollution Control Board.  In Telangana, the byzantine network of tanks and lakes built by the Kakatiya dynasty has disappeared over the years.  Some of the successful case studies  Mission Kakatiya In Telangana, tanks have been the lifeline of the State because of its geographical positioning.  The State’s topography and rainfall pattern have made tank irrigation an ideal type of irrigation by storing and regulating water flow for agricultural use. The Chief Minister of Telangana launched a massive rejuvenation movement in form of “Mission Kakatiya” which involves the restoration of irrigation tanks and lakes/minor irrigation sources built by the Kakatiya dynasty.  From the perspective of inter-generational justice, this is a move towards giving future generations in the State their rightful share of water and, therefore, a life of dignity.  Sustainable hydraulic model The city of Hyderabad is now moving towards a sustainable hydraulic model with some of the best minds in the country working on it.  This model integrates six sources of water in a way that even the most underdeveloped areas of the city can have equitable access to water resources and the groundwater levels restored in order to avoid a calamity of the kind that has gripped Chennai now. Hyderabad and the larger state of Telangana rebuild its resilience through a combination of political will and well-designed policies such as the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Scheme and Mission. Corporate social responsibility and PPP Bengaluru reclaimed Kundalahalli lake (once a landfill) through corporate social responsibility funds in a Public Private Partnership model. Way forward Other urban centres should not shy away from adopting, remodelling and implementing some of the best water management practices to avoid disaster.  The is tendency of policymakers to discount the future and they are obsessed of focussing on the here and now. It is estimated that in just 30 years from now, half of India will be living in cities therefore long term vision is necessary. Conclusion If we truly envision a great future for this country, we must not risk the lives of half of our people and the next generations who could be facing a life in cities parched by drought, stranded by floods, mortified by earthquakes or torn by wars over fresh water. What has happened in Chennai now or what happened in Kerala last year in the form of floods are not a case of setting alarm bells ringing, but one of explosions.  If we do not wake up now, we have to be prepared to face the consequences of nature wreaking great havoc on humanity. We would not need nuclear bombs for our extermination. Connecting the dots: Water crisis in major Indian cities is a wake-up call for policy makers. What are examples of sustainable steps being taken to contain the future crisis? NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2 Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. Karnataka conundrum: Resignation, Disqalification and defection  Introduction In the backdrop of the ongoing crisis in Karnataka, Supreme Court ordered the Speaker of Karnataka to not to decide the issue of MLAs’ resignation or disqualification. It was argued in court that “the rebel MLAs are trying to avoid disqualification by tendering resignations.” This is surprising, as the penalty for defection is loss of legislative office.  Quitting the current post before joining another party is a legal and moral obligation. Disqualification vs Resignation A disqualified member cannot become a Minister without getting elected again, whereas one who resigns can be inducted into an alternative Cabinet without being a member.  Accepting a resignation is a simple function of being satisfied if it is voluntary, while disqualification is decided on evidence and inquiry.    Converting resignation into a disqualification matter is an attempt to deny a member’s right to quit his seat in the legislature before joining another party, even if the crossing-over is a politically expedient measure.  Role of Speaker  The Speaker already enjoys extraordinary powers under the Constitution.  In addition to immunity from judicial scrutiny for legislative matters, such as whether a Bill is a money bill, presiding officers get to decide whether a member has incurred disqualification under the anti-defection law.  Though the decision is subject to judicial review, many Speakers have evaded judicial scrutiny by merely not acting on disqualification matters.  The question whether the Speaker’s inaction can be challenged in court is pending before another Constitution Bench.  Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu have instances of Speakers not acting on disqualification questions for years. Do you know? What is the anti-defection law? Aaya Ram Gaya Ram was a phrase that became popular in Indian politics after a Haryana MLA Gaya Lal changed his party thrice within the same day in 1967.   The anti-defection law sought to prevent such political defections which may be due to reward of office or other similar considerations. The Tenth Schedule was inserted in the Constitution in 1985.  Tenth schedule It lays down the process by which legislators may be disqualified on grounds of defection by the Presiding Officer of a legislature based on a petition by any other member of the House.  A legislator is deemed to have defected if he either voluntarily gives up the membership of his party or disobeys the directives of the party leadership on a vote.  This implies that a legislator defying (abstaining or voting against) the party whip on any issue can lose his membership of the House.  The law applies to both Parliament and state assemblies. Are there any exceptions under the law? The law allows a party to merge with or into another party provided that at least two-thirds of its legislators are in favour of the merger.  In such a scenario, neither the members who decide to merge, nor the ones who stay with the original party will face disqualification. Connecting the dots: The anti-defection law and issuance of whips by political parties curtail the freedom of independence of mps. Critically analyse. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about The Kartarpur corridor, The Kartarpur Corridor is a proposed border corridor connecting the Sikh shrines of Dera Baba Nanak Sahib and GurdwaraDarbar Sahib Kartarpur. The Sikh shrine of Dera Baba Nanak Sahib is located in Punjab, Pakistan and GurdwaraDarbar Sahib Kartarpur in Punjab, India. Select the correct statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about ‘Gangetic Dolphin’  Its IUCN status is “Critically endangered” . It is found only in Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (VGDS) Select the correct statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) The Vikramshila Gangetic Dolphin Sanctuary (VGDS) is located in, Uttar Pradesh  Bihar Jharkhand  None of the above  MUST READ India has to bite the bullet to fix its water crisis Livemint Explained: What does the anti-defection law say? What can disqualify a legislator? Indian Express The burden of perfect 10 Indian Express

Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Staying Focused – Inspirational Educative Articles

Staying Focussed: Life offers us nothing but this moment. This might sound a little crazy but just pause for a moment and reflect on this statement – you are given only one moment at a time, nothing more, and nothing less. Everything you achieve or fail to achieve simply boils down to a single moment. This is why success is such a tricky affair. Success has very little to do with the past and the future – success is all about learning how to make the best use of the available moment. This is where focus becomes such an important factor of success. Without learning how to focus, more often than not, we are not even aware of what is happening in the present moment. We can get so caught up in what has happened or what might happen that we completely forget the present moment. It is our ability to focus that helps us to stay aware of life’s challenges. Have you heard of any individual who has succeeded without possessing this ability to focus on one thing long enough? Isn’t success simply a measure of our ability to focus? The one who has learnt the art of focusing invariably succeeds. Focus is the key differentiating factor between success and failure. Also, focus is not easy. It takes considerable effort to learn the art of focusing. Distraction comes naturally to us. We can get very easily distracted, no effort whatsoever is needed to get distracted; it is always around the corner. But focus, always requires effort on our part. The moment we stop putting in the effort, we become easily distracted. So how do you develop the ability to focus? It’s simple, when you pick up any activity to complete, make a conscious effort to stay with it as long as possible before calling it a day. This might sound too simplistic, but it always works. Let us say you pick up a book to read and you read, let’s say, 5 pages and then you are tired. For whatever reason you decide to stop reading and pick it up may be the next day. This is where you can practice the art of focusing. Just at the moment of quitting, tell yourself – one more page. When you get there, tell yourself again, one more. Do this as much as possible. This will do wonders to your ability to focus. Every activity you pick up has a definite pattern to it. You engage in that particular activity for a while and then drop it. Just at the moment of dropping it, make a conscious effort to stick with it a little longer. Do this with all those activities that are important and useful. Even a few seconds of extended focus can do wonders for your success. As your ability to focus improves, your ability to stay in the present moment improves, and that can change your quality of living completely. When you have learned how to be more and more in the present moment – your ability to understand life improves drastically. Remember that all your frustrations arise when you drift into the past and the future. Learning how to be in the present moment is the best way to ensure your success. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Inner-Revolution and IASBABA.”