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Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 13th July 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 13th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) ISRO’s lunar touchdown has dry run on soil fetched from Tamil Nadu Part of Prelims and mains GS III: Science and Technology Background More than a decade ago, even as the Chandrayaan-1 orbiter mission of 2008 was being readied, the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) created a proto-Lunar Terrain Test Facility (LTTF) at its advanced satellite testing unit, ISITE, in Bengaluru. This, it did, by modifying a balloon research lab, about 30-40 m high, long and wide. Image: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/07/13/CNI/Chennai/TH/5_01/51062d03_3066909_101_mr.jpg Lunar Terrain Test Facility (LTTF) and need of lunar soil Equipping the LTTF and making it look and feel like being on the moon was the first challenge.  It needed lunar ‘soil’ with almost all its features and texture, lunar temperatures, low gravity and the same amount of sunlight as on the moon. On the Moon, the metre-long rover, weighing 27 kg, must move for about 500 metres during its expected life of 14 Earth days (one lunar day).  Lunar soil For recreating the terrain, an option was to import simulated lunar soil from the U.S. at an exorbitant price. ISRO decided to find its own solution at a lower cost. Geologists of various national agencies had found that a few sites near Salem in Tamil Nadu had the ‘anorthosite’ rock that somewhat matches lunar soil in composition and features. To simulate the lunar surface at the Bengaluru test facility, professional crushers broke down the rocks brought from around Salem in Tamil Nadu to the micro grain sizes. Two from Araku test positive for Anthrax Part of Prelims and mains GS II issues related to health  In news Two persons from Araku mandal of Andhra Pradesh, tested positive for the disease cutaneous anthrax. What is anthrax?  Anthrax is a serious infectious disease caused by gram-positive, rod-shaped bacteria known as Bacillus anthracis. Anthrax can be found naturally in soil and commonly affects domestic and wild animals around the world. According to officials from the Health Department, anthrax can spread in three forms — cutaneous anthrax (through the skin), pulmonary anthrax (through inhalation), and gastrointestinal anthrax (through the stomach). In Cutaneous anthrax, anthrax spores get into the skin usually through a cut or a scrape, which can happen when a person handles infected animals. After consumption of affected animals' meat, there are chances of contracting gastrointestinal anthrax.  New Constitution calls Kim head of state instead of ‘supreme leader’ Part of Prelims and mains GS II International Relations  In news Kim Jong-un has been formally named head of state of North Korea and the Commander-in-Chief of the military in a new Constitution observers said was possibly aimed at preparing for a peace treaty with the United States. North Korea has also long called for a peace deal with the United States to normalise relations and end the technical state of war that has existed since the 1950-1953 Korean War concluded with an armistice rather than a peace treaty. A previous Constitution simply called Mr. Kim “supreme leader” who commands the country’s “overall military force” Warming threatens Greenland’s archaeological sites, says study Part of Prelims and mains GS III Climate change In news In Greenland, climate change is not just a danger to ecosystems but also a threat to history, as global warming is affecting archaeological remains, says a study. There are more than 1,80,000 archaeological sites across the Arctic, some dating back thousands of years, and previously these were protected by the characteristics of the soil. Because the degradation rate is controlled by the soil temperature and moisture content, rising air temperatures and changes in precipitation during the frost-free season may lead to a loss of organic key elements such as archaeological wood, bone and ancient DNA. In addition to organic elements, such as hair, feathers, shells and traces of flesh, some of the sites contain the ruins of Viking settlements. The remains, some of which provide a glimpse into the lives of the first inhabitants of Greenland from around 2,500 BC, are at risk. Study predict that average temperature could increase by up to 2.6 degrees Celsius, leading to higher soil temperatures, a longer thaw season, and increased microbial activity within the organic layers. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 3 Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation Picking out plastic: on recycling and waste management Background The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has put 52 producers, brand owners and importers, including big online retailers such as Amazon and Flipkart, and companies such as Patanjali Ayurveda and Britannia, on notice, for failing to take responsibility for their plastic waste.  Issue –  The retail sector expects e-commerce to grow from about $38.5 billion-equivalent in 2017 to $200 billion by 2026. Given the role played by packaging, the waste management problem is likely to become alarming. Plastics are less expensive than other inputs in manufacturing, but recycling them into new products extends their life and provides a substitute for virgin material.  In spite of legal requirements, municipal and pollution control authorities fail to see this and mostly pursue business-as-usual waste management methods. Recyclable waste is rendered useless when it gets mixed with other articles.  Online retailers have not felt compelled to take back the thousands of polybags, plastic envelopes and air pillows used to cushion articles inside cardboard boxes.  This is in contrast to more developed markets where they are trying out labels on packages with clear recycling instructions.  Extended producer responsibility –  The concept of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) was incorporated into the Plastic Waste Management Rules, but municipal and pollution control authorities have failed to persuade commercial giants to put in place a system to collect and process the waste.  What is EPR? Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is a policy approach under which producers are given a significant responsibility – financial and/or physical – for the treatment or disposal of post-consumer products. Assigning such responsibility could in principle provide incentives to prevent wastes at the source, promote product design for the environment and support the achievement of public recycling and materials management goals.  Do you know? PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT RULES, 2016: SALIENT FEATURES – Increase minimum thickness of plastic carry bags from 40 to 50 microns and stipulate minimum thickness of 50 micron for plastic sheets also to facilitate collection and recycle of plastic waste; Expand the jurisdiction of applicability from the municipal area to rural areas, because plastic has reached rural areas also; To bring in the responsibilities of producers and generators, both in plastic waste management system and to introduce collect back system of plastic waste by the producers/brand owners, as per extended producer’s responsibility; To introduce collection of plastic waste management fee through pre-registration of the producers, importers of plastic carry bags/multi-layered packaging and vendors selling the same for establishing the waste management system; To promote use of plastic waste for road construction as per Indian Road Congress guidelines or energy recovery, or waste to oil etc. for gainful utilization of waste and address the waste disposal issue; To entrust more responsibility on waste generators, namely payment of user charge as prescribed by local authority, collection and handing over of waste by the institutional generator, event organizers. Solutions: The two prongs of the solution are packaging innovation that reduces its use by using alternatives, and up scaling waste segregation, collection and transmission. These companies can form waste cooperatives in India, employing informal waste-pickers.  In such a model, consumers will respond readily if they are incentivised to return segregated plastic waste.  Making municipal and pollution control authorities accountable is also equally important. Connecting the dots: Plastic pollution is a pressing environmental concern that requires our collective action. Do you think implementation of PLASTIC WASTE MANAGEMENT RULES, 2016 failed to achieve its objectives? Critically comment. NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization, of resources, growth, development and employment. Jobless growth becomes more systemic Jobless economic growth was a phenomenon that was earlier seen mainly in the organised sector. However, according to the Periodic Labour Force Survey (2017-18), this jobless economic growth has spread to other sectors of the economy mainly the unorganised sector.  Varous statistics about unemployment Labour force participation The two biggest issues shown in the Periodic Labour Force Survey is that there is a decrease in share of the labour force and that there is rising unemployment. The labour force participation rate (% of people working or seeking work in the above-15 years age category) in the earlier survey of 2012 was 55.5%. This has shrunk to 49.7% in 2018. There is an absolute decline in the number of workers from 467.7 million in 2012 to 461.5 million in 2018. The decline in women’s labour force participation from 31% to 24% means that India is among the countries with the lowest participation of women in the labour force. Similarly, self-employment has also decreased.   Do you know? Periodic Labour Force Survey: From 2017 onwards, a nationwide Labour Force Survey called Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) was launched by the NSSO. The PLFS has been launched with an objective of measuring quarterly changes of various labour market statistical indicators in urban areas as well as generating annual estimates of these indicators both for rural and urban areas, which can be used for policy making. Urban vs rural and men vs women unemplyment The highest unemployment rate of a severe nature was among the urban women at 10.8%; followed by urban men at 7.1%; rural men at 5.8%; and rural women at 3.8%. Severe unemployment among men at 6.2% was higher than among women at 5.7%. Unemployed youth Youth unemployment rate (unemployment among those in the 15-29 years age category) has reached a high 17.8%.  Educated unemployed Educated unemployment Defined as unemployment among those with at least a secondary school certificate. The unemployment rates go up as levels of education go up. Compared to the earlier 2012 survey, unemployment of educated men has more than doubled in both rural and urban areas.  Unemployment among those with at least a secondary school certificate, it is at 11.4% compared to the previous survey’s figure of 4.9%. Unemployment rates have gone up in basic educated youths. Among those with secondary school education, it is 5.7% but jumps to 10.3% when those with higher secondary-level education are considered.  The highest rate is among the diploma and certificate holders (19.8%); followed by graduates (17.2), and postgraduates (14.6%). Burden on women Highest burden of unemployment is on women. The highest unemployment rate of a severe nature was among the urban women at 10.8%; followed by urban men at 7.1%. In educated unemployment, urban women (19.8%) followed by rural women (17.3%), rural men (10.5%) and urban men (9.2%). Among the educated, women face a more unfavourable situation than men despite a low labour force participation rate. In youth unemployment, women unemployment rate of 27.2% is more than double the 2012 figure of 13.1%. The rate for urban men is at 18.7%. Conclusion The overall conclusion here is that the trend of ‘jobless growth’ that was till recently confined largely to the organised sector has now spread to other sectors of the economy, making it more generalised. This calls for a thorough re-examination of the missing linkages between growth and employment. Connecting the dots: The nature of economic growth in India in recent times often projects jobless growth. Critically comment. Q.1) Viking settlements are found in, Australia  Green Land  Madagascar  None of the above  Q.2) Anthrax disease is  A viral disease  A bacterial disease  Disease caused by protozoa  A fungal disease  Q.3) “Anorthosite” rock is recently seen in news because of,  Its uranium content  Its similarity with lunar soil Its fossil content None of the above  MUST READ Maximise revenue, minimise tax Indian Express A case of confused thinking: on draft National Education Policy The Hindu A welcome debate on electoral reforms The Hindu

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 12th July 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 12th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Can’t be pushed into a decision: Speaker Part of Prelims and mains GS II structure and functions of State assemblies   In news In the context of ongoing ruckus in Karnataka assembly, the Supreme Court asked Karnataka Speaker K.R. Ramesh Kumar to meet 10 rebel legislators from the Congress and the Janata Dal (Secular) and take a decision on their resignations. Mr. Ramesh Kumar insisted that he had a responsibility to understand whether the resignations were genuine and voluntary, as prescribed in the Constitution. Mr. Ramesh Kumar confirmed that all the 10 fresh resignation letters tendered by the rebel legislators were in accordance with the Rules and Procedure of Conduct of Business in the Assembly. Do you know? Article 190 (3)(b) If a member of a House of the Legislature of a State, resigns his seat by writing under his hand addressed to the Speaker or the Chairman, and his resignation is accepted by the Speaker or the Chairman, his seat shall thereupon becomes vacant: Provided that in the case of such resignation the Speaker or the Chairman is satisfied that such resignation is not voluntary or genuine. Death penalty for child abuse Part of Prelims and mains GS II social justice   In news Cabinet approves Amendment in the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act 2012 Do you know? Key features of the Act  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. Amendment  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. Bill to tackle Ponzi schemes Part of Prelims and mains GS III Economic Issues   In news  The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister had earlier given its approval to move official amendments to The Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2018, after the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Finance (SCF).  The 2019 Bill will replace the The Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Ordinance 2019.  The 2019 ordinance helped in the creation of a central repository of all deposit schemes under operation, thus making it easier for the Centre to regulate their activities and prevent fraud from being committed against ordinary people.  The ordinance allowed for compensation to be offered to victims through the liquidation of the assets of those offering illegal deposit schemes.    Background The Finance Minister in the Budget Speech 2016-17 had announced that a comprehensive Central legislation would be brought in to deal with the menace of illicit deposit taking schemes.  This was because in the recent past, there have been rising instances fraud by illicit deposit taking schemes across India. The worst victims of these schemes are the poor and the financially illiterate, and the operations of such schemes are often spread over many States.   The Unregulated Deposit Schemes Ordinance 2019 – Important features The ordinance aims to provide for a comprehensive mechanism to ban unregulated deposits schemes and thereby protect the interests of depositors.  The Ordinance bans Deposit Takers from promoting, operating, issuing advertisements or accepting deposits in any Unregulated Deposit Scheme.  A prize chit or money circulation scheme banned under the provisions of The Prize Chits and Money Circulation Scheme (Banning) Act, 1978 shall also be considered an unregulated deposit and has been banned accordingly.        The Ordinance enables creation of an online central database, for collection and sharing of information on deposit-taking activities in the country.  The law also makes it incumbent upon newspapers to verify the advertisements placed in them to ensure that none of them is for unregulated deposit schemes.      The Bill creates three different types of offences:  Running of Unregulated Deposit Schemes,  Fraudulent default in Regulated Deposit Schemes, and  Wrongful inducement in relation to Unregulated Deposit Schemes. IAF to adopt ASRAAM missile for fighter fleet Part of Prelims and mains GS III Science & Technology   In news The Indian Air Force’s (IAF) move to integrate British Advanced Short Range Air-to-Air missile (ASRAAM) to Russian-origin Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jets. IAF is looking to replace the Russian-made Vympel R-73 missile with the ASRAAM in phases. Do you know? About ASRAAM ASRAAM is widely used as a Within Visual Range (WVR) air dominance missile with a range of over 25km (Short range).  It is air-to-air missile. It is an imaging infrared homing ("heat seeking") missile. Green light for rural roads  Part of Prelims and mains GS III Inclusive growth, rural infrastructure development  In news  PMGSY-III scheme was announced by the Finance Minister in Budget Speech for the year 2018-19. Objective: It involves consolidation of Through Routes and Major Rural Links connecting 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. Project period: 2019-20 to 2024-25. Do you know? Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) PMGSY was launched in December, 2000 with an objective to provide single all-weather road connectivity to eligible unconnected habitation of designated population size (500+ in plain areas and 250+ in North-East, hill, tribal and desert areas as per Census, 2001) for overall socio-economic development of the areas. 97% of the eligible and feasible habitations have already been connected by all-weather road.  (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 1 population and associated issues General studies 2 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources. A demographic window of opportunity Background According to the UN Report released recently, India is expected to overtake China as the most populous country by 2027. In this regard, this article discusses as to how the Indian Government must manage its human resources efficiently. How to reduce the Population Growth rate? Punitive actions such as such as restriction on maternity leave, disqualification from panchayat elections for more than 2 children in some states etc. cannot lead to decrease in population growth rate. Such disincentives are not strong enough to overcome the desire for children as the people who desired larger families go ahead in spite of consequences. There are sharp differences in the Total Fertility rate (TFR) among the different socio-economic groups in India.  The TFR of the poorest women was 3.2 as compared to TFR of 1.5 of richer women.  The lower TFR among the richer households is because of their desire to invest in their children’s education and future prospects that seems to drive people to stop at one child. Richer individuals see greater potential for ensuring admission to good colleges and better jobs for their children, inspiring them to limit their family size. Thus, we must focus on reducing the TFR among the poorer households by improving the access to education and ensuring better jobs for their children. Such efforts have to be substantiated by provision of contraceptive services. Integrating Population policy into Development Policies The 15th Finance Commission has planned to use the 2011 census data for the distribution of taxes among the states. However, it has been opposed by the Southern states since such a policy would penalize them for taking efforts to reduce the population and it would implicitly reward the populous states which may not have implemented the population control measures strictly. Continuing with the 1971 census-based allocation would be mistake on the basis of following grounds: Varying Stages of Demographic Transition: Different states in India are at different stages of demographic transition. States such as Kerala and TN are already past their demographic dividend stage, while in next 20 years states such as Karnataka would have window of opportunity. States such as UP and Bihar are expected to have peak in their demographic dividend much later. The states with higher share of workers would be able to contribute to higher revenue to the centre and such revenue can in turn be used to support the states with higher share of ageing population. For example, workers in Haryana would be able to support ageing population of Kerala in future. Conclusion Presently, the states with higher fertility rates and higher population growth need to be supported by the Centre so as to enhance human capital formation in the form of Education, health etc. By sticking to 1971 census, we would not be able to address the demands of such states. Connecting the dots: In India, investing in the laggard States will ensure their role as being the greatest contributors of the future. Comment in context of demographic differences. NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 3 Infrastructure Energy Going electric Background The Union Budget has announced a bold move to make a transition to electric vehicles, and offered a tax incentive for the early adopters.  Its stated vision to leapfrog into an era of electric mobility and domestic vehicle manufacturing, led by public transport and commercial vehicles, is forward-looking.  It is also inevitable because poor air quality and noise pollution have sharply affected the quality of life, and pose a serious public health challenge.  Deadline  As the NITI Aayog has stated, the goal of shifting to electric vehicles cannot make progress without deadlines, and a market-driven approach sought by some sections of the automotive industry will leave India’s capabilities and infrastructure for e-mobility trailing others, notably China.  With 2030 as the outer limit, the imperative is to fix a realistic time-frame by which scooters, motorcycles, three-wheel carriages and, later, all new vehicles will be battery powered.  Incentives An additional income tax deduction of ₹1.5 lakh is now offered on interest paid on loans to purchase electric vehicles, and the GST Council has been moved to cut the tax on e-vehicles to 5% from 12%. Both demands were made by the industry earlier.  Budgetary allocation There is a significant outlay under the second iteration of the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing (of Hybrid and) Electric Vehicles (FAME) plan of ₹10,000 crore, to give a fillip to commercial vehicles and to set up charging stations. Way ahead Affordable charging will make these vehicles and commercial three-wheelers attractive because operating costs are a fraction of petrol and diesel equivalents.  Swapping the battery at convenient locations with one that is pre-charged, especially for commercial vehicles that run longer and need a quick turnaround, is worth considering. A longer-term policy priority has to be the setting up of lithium battery production and solar charging infrastructure of a scale that matches the ambition. Connecting the dots: India is moving ahead to become a world leader in electric vehicles industry. Critically analyse the issues and challenges in front of Indian automobile industry to shift to electric vehicles. (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 POCSO Act, 2012, The Act defines a child as any person below sixteen years of age. The act is gender neutral. Select the incorrect statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Ponzi schemes in India, Ponzi schemes are legal in India. Ponzi schemes are regulated by SEBI. Select the correct statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), PMGSY is being implemented by Ministry of road transport PMGSY was launched in December, 2014 with an objective to provide single all-weather road connectivity to eligible unconnected habitation of designated population size Select the correct statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Article 190 of the Indian Constitution is related to, Vacation of seats in both the houses of parliament Vacation of seats in both the houses of State legislature  Vacation of seats in Lok sabha None of the above MUST READ Tread with caution: on labour laws The Hindu India’s hidden challenges of employment, ageing and health Live mint Delhi to Tehran via US Indian Express

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 25

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 25 Archives Q.1) ‘Amrabad Tiger Reserve’ is located in which of the following states? Telangana Karnataka Maharashtra Gujarat Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Pharmexcil’ It is the authorized agency for promotion of pharmaceutical exports from India It was set up under the provisions of Foreign Trade Policy by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Locust Warning Organisation (LWO)’ LWO is amalgamated with the Directorate of Plant Protection Quarantine and Storage (PPQS) of the Ministry of Agriculture Locust Control and Research scheme is implemented through the Locust Warning Organisation (LWO) Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) ‘Basel Accords’ is associated with Data Localisation Banking Climate Change Biodiversity Q.5) ‘Teesta River’ flows through which of the following Indian States? West Bengal Sikkim Assam 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

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th July 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 11th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Worker safety code Bill gets Cabinet approval Part of Prelims and mains GS II social justice GS III labour reforms   In news A Bill that seeks to merge 13 labour laws into one code on occupational safety, health and working conditions that would apply to all establishments with 10 or more workers was approved by the Union Cabinet. The Code on Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Bill, 2019, which would impact “40 crore unorganised workers”, was approved at a Cabinet meeting. The Bill was the second of four proposed codes that aim to merge 44 labour laws, with the Code on Wages Bill, 2019 that was approved on earlier being the first. The decision will enhance the coverage of the safety, health and working conditions provisions manifold. Applicable to While the code will be applicable to all trades, including IT establishments and service sector, where more than 10 workers are employed. It will be applicable to mines and docks that employ even one worker.  The code also framed rules for women workers working night shifts. Bengal port records country’s highest sea level rise in 50 years Part of Prelims and mains GS III Global warming and climate change  In news According to the data from the Ministry of Earth Sciences, four ports- Diamond Harbour (5.16 mm per year), Kandla (3.18 mm), Haldia (2.89 mm)and Port Blair (2.20 mm)- recorded a higher sea level rise than the global average.  Chennai and Mumbai recorded a sea level rise far below the global and the national averages at 0.33 mm per year (1916-2005) and 0.74 mm (1878-2005) respectively.  While recent studies reveal that sea level rise in the country has been estimated to be 1.3 mm per year along India’s coasts during the last 40-50 years. Cause and effects  Sea level rise is said to be linked with global warming and as per the fifth assessment report of the International Panel on Climate Change, the global sea level was rising at an average rate of 1.8 mm per year over the last century. Rising sea levels can exacerbate the impacts of coastal hazards such as storm surge, tsunami, coastal floods, high waves and coastal erosion in the low lying coastal areas in addition to causing gradual loss of coastal land to sea. The sea level rise is higher in West Bengal, particularly in the Sunderbans delta because of the deltaic sediment deposition as a result of the mixing of fresh water and saline water. Global warming not only causes melting of ice and glaciers, but also leads to internal expansion of water in oceans and thus a rise in the sea level. Single tribunal to hear water disputes Part of Prelims and mains GS II interstate relations and governance   In news The Union Cabinet has approved the Inter-State River Water Disputes (Amendment) Bill, 2019 that will help adjudicate disputes relating to waters of inter-State rivers and river valleys.  The Bill seeks to amend the Inter State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 to streamline the adjudication of inter-State river water disputes. Need to amend 1956 Act There are about a dozen tribunals that now exist to resolve disputes among States on sharing water from rivers common to them.  The standalone tribunal so envisaged will have a permanent establishment, office space and infrastructure so as to obviate with the need to set up a separate tribunal for each water dispute - a time consuming process. The Bill can also affect the composition of the members of various tribunals, and has a provision to have a technical expert as the head of the tribunal.  Currently all tribunals are staffed by members of the judiciary, nominated by the Chief Justice. Adjudication process A key feature of the Bill is the constitution of a single tribunal with different Benches, and the setting of strict timelines for adjudication. The Bill also proposes a Dispute Resolution Committee set up by the Central Government for amicably resolving inter-State water disputes within 18 months.  Any dispute that cannot be settled by negotiations would be referred to the tribunal for its adjudication.  The dispute so referred to the tribunal shall be assigned by the chairperson of the tribunal to a Bench of the tribunal for adjudication. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 3 Challenges to internal security Role of media and social networking sites in internal security challenges Security challenges and their management The growing power of the lumpen  Introduction Increasing cases of mob violence in the society based on discrimination on different fronts have raised concerns on law and order situation in the country including safety of the vulnerable sections of the society.  A rising graph Studies of hate crimes in India show that they have steadily risen over the past five years. Amnesty International India documented 721 such incidents between 2015 and 2018.  Last year alone, it tracked 218 hate crimes, 142 of which were against Dalits, 50 against Muslims, 40 against women, and eight each against Christians, Adivasis, and transgenders.  The more common hate crimes, they found, were honour killings and ‘cow-related violence’, that was rare earlier but has become more frequent over the past five years. One of the causes and solution Worldwide data show that hate speech encourages or legitimises acts of violence and a climate of impunity.  France has a draft Bill to prohibit hate speech, and Germany has already enacted one. Supreme Court direction Supreme Court in the case of Tehseen Poonawala v Union of India, has provided a 11-point prescription for preventive, remedial and punitive measures and has asked Parliament to legislate a separate offence for lynching and provide adequate punishment for the same. Do you know? Separate law on mob lynching by Manipur On the lines of Supreme Court judgment, State Government of Manipur has legislated a separate law to make lynching a criminal offence.     Definition of Mob as per Manipur law - The Act has defined lynching in a comprehensive way and covers many forms of hate crimes. It covers any act or series of acts of violence or aiding, abetting such act/acts whether spontaneous or planned, by a mob on the grounds of religion, race, caste, sex, place of birth, language, dietary practices, sexual orientation, political affiliation, ethnicity or any other related grounds.  As per the law, mob means a group of two or more individuals, assembled with a common intention of lynching. However, the law does not cover solitary hate crimes carried out by one individual.   Punishments Provided under the Manipur Law Victim suffering from hurt: For a term which may extend to 7 years + fine, which may extend upto Rs. 1 lakh Victim suffering from grievous hurt: For a term which may extend to 10 years + fine, which may extend upto Rs. 3 lakhs Death of the victim: Rigorous imprisonment for life + fine upto Rs. 10 lakhs  Committee headed by Home Secretary on Mob Lynching Four Member Committee of secretaries headed by Home Secretary was formed in July 2018 to look into the incidents of mob violence and lynchings and submit recommendations on ways to tackle the challenge.     The committee has submitted its report to the Group of Ministers (GoM), headed by Home Minister who will now examine the recommendations of this panel.    The Committee was constituted in wake of Supreme Court judgment where the Court directed the Centre to draft strong legislation to make lynching a separate offence and also to take preventive measures to control the spread of fake messages on social media platforms, after a series of mob lynching incidents took place.  Responsibility of states As per the Constitutional scheme, 'Police' and 'Public Order' are State subjects. State Governments are responsible for controlling crime, maintaining law and order, and protecting the life and property of the citizens. They are empowered to enact and enforce laws to curb crime in their jurisdiction. Conclusion For a demographically diverse country such as India, hate crimes, including crimes of contempt, are a disaster.  Each of our religious and caste communities number in the millions, and crimes that are directed against any of these groups could result in a magnitude of disaffection that impels violence, even terrorism.  Far less diverse countries than India are already suffering the result of hate ‘moving into the mainstream’, as UN Secretary General António Guterres recently highlighted. Connecting the dots: For a demographically diverse country such as India, hate crimes are a disaster. Discuss. NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 1 Population and associated issues Poverty and developmental issues General studies 2 Issues relating to poverty and hunger The malaise of malnutrition Introduction A new report, ‘Food and Nutrition Security Analysis, India, 2019’, authored by the Government of India and the United Nations World Food Programme, paints a picture of hunger and malnutrition amongst children in large pockets of India. Vicious cycle poverty, malnutrition The report shows the poorest sections of society caught in a trap of poverty and malnutrition, which is being passed on from generation to generation.  Mothers who are hungry and malnourished produce children who are stunted, underweight and unlikely to develop to achieve their full human potential. According to a study in the Lancet, these disadvantaged children are likely to do poorly in school and subsequently have low incomes, high fertility, and provide poor care for their children, thus contributing to the intergenerational transmission of poverty. In other words, today’s poor hungry children are likely to be tomorrow’s hungry, unemployed and undereducated adults. Effects of malnourishment on cognitive development The effects of malnourishment in a small child are not merely physical.  A developing brain that is deprived of nutrients does not reach its full mental potential. According to Lancet study, undernutrition can affect cognitive development by causing direct structural damage to the brain and by impairing infant motor development.  This in turn affects the child’s ability to learn at school, leading to a lifetime of poverty and lack of opportunity. Progress so far India has long been home to the largest number of malnourished children in the world. Some progress has been made in reducing the extent of malnutrition.  The proportion of children with chronic malnutrition decreased from 48% percent in 2005-06 to 38.4% in 2015-16.  The percentage of underweight children decreased from 42.5% to 35.7% over the same period.  Anaemia in young children decreased from 69.5% to 58.5% during this period. But this progress is small. An ambitious target The government’s National Nutrition Mission (renamed as Poshan Abhiyaan) aims to reduce stunting by 2% a year, bringing down the proportion of stunted children in the population to 25% by 2022. A year after it was launched, State and Union Territory governments have only used 16% of the funds allocated to them. Fortified rice and milk were to be introduced in one district per State,  this had not been done.  Anganwadis are key to the distribution of services to mothers and children. But many States, including Bihar and Odisha, which have large vulnerable populations, are struggling to set up functioning anganwadis, and recruit staff. Pattern of socio-economic exclusion Malnutrition is a reflection of age-old patterns of social and economic exclusion. Over 40% of children from Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes are stunted.  Close to 40% of children from the Other Backward Classes are stunted. The lack of nutrition in their childhood years can reduce their mental as well as physical development and condemn them to a life in the margins of society. The problem is access to food As Amartya Sen noted, famines are caused not by shortages of food, but by inadequate access to food.  For the poor and marginalised, access to food is impeded by social, administrative and economic barriers In the case of children and their mothers, this could be anything from non-functioning or neglectful governments at the State, district and local levels to entrenched social attitudes that see the poor and marginalised as less than equal citizens. Conclusion UN report punctures the image of a nation marching towards prosperity. It raises moral and ethical questions about the nature of a state and society that, after 70 years of independence, still condemns hundreds of millions of its poorest and vulnerable citizens to lives of hunger and desperation. The poorest two-fifths of the country’s population, that is still largely untouched by the modern economy which the rest of the country inhabits. Connecting the dots: Despite rapid economic growth, declining levels of poverty, enough food to export, and a multiplicity of government programmes, malnutrition amongst the poorest remains high. Comment. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about Inter State River Water Disputes Act, 1956, It provides for single tribunal to hear water disputes  Tribunal is to be headed by technical expert. Select the incorrect statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements about labour reforms  in India, Four proposed codes aims to merge 44 labour laws. The code will be applicable to all trades, including IT establishments and service sector, where more than 10 workers are employed. Select the correct statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ An Indo-European partnership can be a winning combination Live mint Stagnant cess pool Indian Express A demographic window of opportunity: on population and policy The Hindu

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 24

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 24 Archives Q.1) Which of the following states is the largest producer of Natural Rubber? Kerala Tripura Assam Tamil Nadu Q.2) Which of the following statements is/are correct? The Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflows have been consistently increasing in the last 3 years The growth of India’s Manufacturing Gross Value Added (GVA) have been consistently increasing in the last 3 years Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘POCSO Act’ It defines a child as any person below sixteen years of age It provides for the establishment of Special Courts for trial of offences, keeping the best interest of the child as of paramount importance at every stage of the judicial process. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Indian Nuclear Insurance Pool (INIP)’ It aims to provide insurance to cover the liability against accidents as prescribed under Civil Liability for Nuclear Damage (CLND) Act, 2010 It is launched by the General Insurance Corporation of India Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Mahila Kisan Sashaktikaran Pariyojana (MKSP)’ It is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development It is aimed at empowering women in agriculture by making systematic investments to enhance their participation and productivity. 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

AIR

All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - Eradication of TB by 2025 from India

Eradication of TB by 2025 from India ARCHIVES Search 24th June, 2019 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx   TOPIC: General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health, Education, Human Resources Tuberculosis (TB) is a global pandemic and continues to be a huge public health threat in India. It currently has 27 per cent of the world’s new TB cases, which is around 2.8 million. According to World Health Organisation (WHO), the country holds the dubious distinction of being the TB capital of the world as around 480,000 people died due to the disease in 2014. As per Stop TB, 1:4 people with TB worldwide is an Indian. Although the annual incidence of TB has reduced from 289 persons per 100,000 in year 2000 to 217 per 100,000 in 2015, eliminating TB would necessitate a dramatic reduction to less than one person per 10,00,000. India’s vision: To end TB by 2025, five years ahead of the World’s Target under SDG’s India’s estimated annual TB burden is 28 lakhs, 27% of the global total; our population is only 18%. Every day 1,200 Indians die of TB — 10 every three minutes. According to Health Ministry data, only 63% of the patients infected with the airborne disease are currently under treatment. Further, 1,47,000 patients are resistant to first- and second-line TB medicines. At the current rate of progress, global targets to eliminate TB by 2030 will be missed by a 150 years. Link: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/pm-launches-campaign-to-eradicate-tb-from-india-by-2025-5096122/  Tuberculosis (TB) is a disease caused by bacteria called Mycobacterium tuberculosis. The bacteria usually attack the lungs, but they can also damage other parts of the body. TB spreads through the air when a person with TB of the lungs or throat coughs, sneezes, or talks. If you have been exposed, you should go to your doctor for tests. You are more likely to get TB if you have a weak immune system. TB is, by and large, easily diagnosable and curable. It is unacceptable that it nevertheless remains the leading causes of death from any single infectious agent worldwide. Each day, thousands of people with TB die, often because of inequitable access to quality diagnosis and treatment. In addition, the rapid emergence of drug-resistant forms of TB (DR-TB) in many countries brings a fresh set of needs including new and comprehensive diagnostic tests and second-line TB drugs, and health systems trained anew to manage DR-TB. Three processes: Infection, Progression, Transmission Infection: Infection occurs when TB bacilli are inhaled. Bacilli may stay in the lungs or travel to other organs. Infection is lifelong, with bacilli lying dormant. This phase is “latent TB”, diagnosed by a tuberculin skin test (TST). The “annual rate of TB infection” (ARTI) is about 1%. Cumulatively, 40% to 70% of us are living with latent TB. From this reservoir pool, a few progress to TB disease, one by one, 5-30 years, average 20 years, later. Progression: Progression occurs when bacilli become active, multiply and cause pathology; now we have “active TB”. Transmission: When active TB affects the lungs, the bacilli find an exit route to the atmosphere, necessary for transmission. Features of the National Strategic Plan for TB Elimination: The plan aims to achieve a 100% case detection by 2020 and complete elimination of the disease by 2025. Four strategic pillars of Detect-Treat-Prevent-Build (DTPB) have been developed for achieving the goals of the national strategic plan. The implementation will be the combined efforts of all the stakeholders. It aims at creating a synergy through a shift from a regulatory approach to a partnership approach to stream line the services in the largely unorganized and unregulated private sector. Anti-TB drug “Bedaqualine” has been introduced under the Conditional Access Programme (CAP). A proposal is made to explore the possibility of development of a first line anti-TB drug in the public sector, under the “Make in India” programme. Plan envisions a corpus fund for TB maintained under Bharat Kshay Niyantran Pratishtan (India TB control Foundation) E-Nikshay an online platform has been made user-friendly, so as to let the doctors notify the cases as and when they come across the infected patients. Various media campaigns have been planned to educate the masses about TB and its prevention. Swasth E- Gurukul is one such initiative of the World Health Organization. The case of Metropolitan cities  Stats: In metropolitan cities such as Mumbai have the maximum share of drug-resistant TB cases, according to the Central TB Division’s India TB Report 2018. The city has higher levels of MDR-TB than in other parts of India, at 24-30% of new cases. Studies show that Mumbai also has 22% of notified cases of TB and around 50% potential drug resistance; TB treatment is estimated at 600 per 100,000 in slum areas and 458 in non-slum areas.  Factors: The reasons for such high incidence are manifold—overcrowded, congested conditions, poor access to healthcare facilities, migrants entering the city daily. Other factors are inadequate nutrition, lack of ventilated spaces, proximity to industry that makes people vulnerable to the harmful effects of pollution, and lack of accessible quality diagnostic services.  Solutions: Extending testing facilities under trained staff to government dispensaries and primary health centres is a must. Many lives can be saved if tests are cheaper, accurate and patients, particularly migrants, are given counselling and other forms of support. The Way forward The Revised National TB Control Programme has scaled up basic TB diagnostic and treatment services, however, it can’t beat the powerful bacterium unless we adopt an out-of-the-box approach. There is a need to urgently increase funds for drug research, train health workers and technicians in accurate detection and increase counselling support for patients.  Based on the need expressed in the National Strategic Plan continue to increase the budget for the TB programme at the federal level and also at the state level to ensure no funding gap exists. Scale up new rapid molecular diagnostics and new drugs and treatment regimen. Ensure uniform good quality diagnostic and treatment services in both public and private sectors. Scale up quickly the direct benefit transfers to patients and improve it further to ensure that out-of-pocket costs to patients and their families are reduced. Implement the comprehensive approach of “search-treat-prevent” which is already in the national strategic plan. More needs to be done to operationalise prevention and preventive therapy for those at risk. Considering the diversity of India put in place a system for achieving TB-free villages and cities, encouraging health competition between states and local areas. Prioritise research and innovation, including research into new diagnostics, drugs and vaccine. Most important of all set up a system of monitoring progress by the state chief ministers

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 10th July 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 10th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) SC to decide if illegal migrants can be given the status of refugees Part of Prelims and mains GS II International Relations  In news Two Rohingya men filed a prtition against the government’s proposal to deport their 40,000-strong community to their native land of Myanmar, where “discrimination and possibly summary executions await them”. According to the petitions, the Centre’s move violated the constitutional guarantee that the Indian State should “protect the life and liberty of every human being, whether citizen or not”. The Rohingya, who fled to India after violence in the State of Rakhine in Myanmar, are settled in Jammu, Hyderabad, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi-NCR and Rajasthan. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) had also issued notice to the government on the proposed deportation. Do you know? Status of refugee in India:- India is not a party to the 1951 Convention relating to the Status of Refugees or the 1967 Protocol, nor does it have a legal framework and national refugee status determination system.  As a result, UNHCR processes claims for refugee status in India. The UNHCR carries out a Refugee Status Determination (RSD) procedure, which starts with registration as asylum seekers. Following the registration, UNHCR will then conduct interviews with each individual asylum seeker accompanied by a qualified interpreter.  This process provides a reasoned decision on whether refugee status is granted or not, and gives the individual an opportunity to appeal a decision if the claim is rejected. CPCB pulls up 52 firms over handling of waste Part of Prelims and mains GS III Environment and ecology In news  The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) has pulled up 52 companies, including Amazon, Flipkart, Danone Foods and Beverages and PatanjaliAyurved Limited, for not specifying a time line or a plan to collect the plastic waste that results from their business activities. Do you know? Facts:  According to CPCB estimates in 2015, Indian cities generate about 15,000 tonnes of plastic waste per day and about 70% of the plastic produced in the country ends up as waste. Nearly 40% of the plastic waste is neither collected nor recycled and ends up polluting the land and water. The Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, (which was amended in 2018) Rural areas have been brought in ambit of these Rules since plastic has reached to rural areas also. Responsibility for implementation of the rules is given to Gram Panchayat. First time, responsibility of waste generators is being introduced. Individual and bulk generators like offices, commercial establishments, industries are to segregate the plastic waste at source, handover segregated waste, pay user fee as per bye-laws of the local bodies. Plastic products are left littered after the public events (marriage functions, religious gatherings, public meetings etc) held in open spaces. First time, persons organising such events have been made responsible for management of waste generated from these events. Extended Producer Responsibility: Earlier, EPR was left to the discretion of the local bodies. First time, the producers and brand owners have been made responsible for collecting waste generated from their products. They have to approach local bodies for formulation of plan/system for the plastic waste management within the prescribed timeframe. DRDO gets clearance for missile test facility in A.P. Part of Prelims and mains GS III Science and tech, GS II Defence and security  In news The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has granted environment and Coastal Regulatory Zone clearances for setting up Missile Testing Launch Facility on the Bay of Bengal coast and Technical Facility at Gullalamoda village in Krishna district. Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary is in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh  Honour for ‘Plan Bee’ that helped save jumbos Part of Prelims and mains GS III Environment and ecology In news Plan Bee, earned the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) the best innovation award in Indian Railways for the 2018-19 fiscal. Need of Plan There are 29 earmarked elephant corridors with the operating zone of NFR spread across the north-eastern states and parts of Bihar and West Bengal. Trains are required to slow down at these corridors and adhere to speed specified on signs. But elephants have ventured into the path of trains even in non-corridor areas, often leading to accidents resulting in elephant deaths. Plan Bee Under this plan, a device was designed to generate the amplified sound of honey bees audible from 700-800 metres. It is an amplifying system imitating the buzz of a swarm of honey bees to keep wild elephants away from railway tracks. NFR now has 46 such devices installed at vulnerable points. 88 manual scavenging deaths in 3 years Part of Prelims and mains GS II Social justice  Image:https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2019/07/10/CNI/Chennai/TH/5_11/3cdbf8ad_3060214_101_mr.jpg In news The number of deaths of sanitation workers while cleaning septic tanks and sewers has risen, despite a ban on manual scavenging, with 620 cases reported since 1993, of which 88 occurred in the past three years, according to the Social Justice and Empowerment Ministry.  On casualities due to manual scanvenging, some States had not reported and some had reported nil, leading to the possibility of the actual deaths from manual scavenging being higher. Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act, 2013 had laid down a mechanism of monitoring its implementation through vigilance committees and monitoring committees at different levels. Karnataka offers quota for girl children of trafficked women Part of Prelims and mains GS II Social justice In news Recently Karnataka government has announced for providing 1% reservation for girl children of women who were victims of sexual assault or were Devadasis in all State-run universities. It will be enforced by universities in the 2019-2020 academic year in all undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. Devadasi system in India According to the Indian National Commission for Women(NCW), there are still at least 44,000 active devadasi in India.  Although the numbers are difficult to confirm due to the practice being not only underground but also difficult to differentiate from non-religious prostitution, the practice is particularly concentrated in a few states.  According to the NCW, the majority of active devadasis are in Karnataka (22,491 individuals), Andhra Pradesh (16,624 individuals), and Maharashtra (2,479 individuals). (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Government policies and interventions and issues arising out of their design and implementation. A regrettable conviction Background: The conviction of prominent pro-LTTE politician Vaiko on the charge of sedition, based on a typically impassioned speech he had made in Chennai a decade ago, is a worrying development. Even though Section 124A, the IPC section that makes sedition an offence, attracts either a three-year term or imprisonment for life, the trial court sentenced him to a somewhat lenient one-year jail term. Sedition has been defined in Indian Penal Code under section 124A: Whoever, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government estab­lished by law, shall be punished with im­prisonment for life, to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine. Article 19: It gurantees freedom of speech and expression subject to reasonable limitations under Article 19(2) on the grounds of, In the interests of the sovereignty and integrity of India,  The security of the State,  Friendly relations with foreign States,  Public order, decency or morality or  In relation to contempt of court,  Defamation or  Incitement to an offence Section 124A should be scrapped There is greater recognition now than in the past that Section 124A is neither relevant nor needed today.  The Law Commission released a consultation paper highlighting arguments for its reconsideration.  There is a body of opinion that a modern democracy does not need a free speech restriction based on political concepts such as disloyalty and disaffection towards the state.  Britain, which introduced the offence of sedition in India in 1870 to check the use of speech and writing to criticise its colonial administration, has abolished it. Conclusion: In recent years, there has been an alarming rise in sedition charges being used to quell political dissent. In a modern democracy like India, there no need of restrictions on freedom of speech based on political concepts.  Connecting the dots: What do you understand by sedition? Critically comment on the way section 124a is being used politically. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora A shot at economic logic Background The 12th Extra-Ordinary Summit of the African Union (AU) which concluded on July 8 at Niamey, the capital of the Niger Republic, saw 54 of 55 of its member states signing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) for goods and services. What is African Continental FTA?  The 18th session of the African Union, held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in 2012 adopted a decision to establish a Continental Free Trade Area (CFTA) by 2017. Most of the African countries signed the African Continental Free Trade Area and the Protocol establishing the African Economic Community in Kigali, Rwanda in 2018. This led to the Kigali Declaration. Objectives of AfCFTA: Create a single continental market for goods and services Free movement of business persons and investments Accelerate the establishment of the Continental Customs Union and the African customs union Expand intra African trade   Coordination among members for trade facilitation regimes and instruments Enhance competitiveness at the industry and enterprise level on Pan-African level Exploiting opportunities for scale production and continental market access Hurdles & Roadblocks for AfCFTA: The African Union has been largely ineffective in dealing with the continent’s various problems & therefore, AU past failures and ineffectiveness raises concerns whether it can successfully implement AfCFTA.  AfCFTA has to work against the ongoing global protectionist trends as seen in the U.S.-China trade conflict, Brexit and the problems in WTO functioning.  The intra-African trade currently comprises just about 15% of the continent’s trade. This is quite low when compared to regional trade in other continents – roughly 67% in Europe, 58% in Asia and 48% in North America. The exports of most African countries are predominantly primary commodity. This would need to be pared down in international trade and adjusted among members. Most African countries currently lack in additive manufacturing, automation and other fourth industrial revolution innovations. This issue is highly un-likely to be resolved by CFTA. Negotiations on important issues like intellectual property rights, tariffs for some goods, are still on-going among AU members. Nigeria and South Africa, the two largest economies of Africa have  shown reluctance for AfCFTA.  AfCFTA impact on India: Africa is an important economic partner for India with total annual merchandise trade estimated at $70 billion & with India as Africa’s third largest trading partner.  India’s global exports have weakened due to the economic slowdown, however India's exports to Africa has increased. Africa has a strong demand market for goods and services that India produces such as automobiles, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, IT/IT-Enabled Service, health care and education, among other. AfCFTA would ensure African economies would become more formalised and transparent and this would be in India’s interest.  Local manufactured items and services may ultimately compete with Indian exports, however it also provides Indian firms an opportunity for joint ventures with African firms.  India had donated $15 million to Niger to fund the Niamey AU Summit & similarly India can also help the African Union to prepare the requisite architecture, such as common external tariffs, competition policy, intellectual property rights, and natural persons’ movement.  India can identify various African transnational corporations which are destined to play a greater role in a future continental common market and engage with them strategically. India can augment its economic strength in Africa by engaging with Indian diaspora in Africa. After the AfCFTA is accepted & implemented in Africa, both India and Africa can negotiate for an India-African FTA. Conclusion If taken to its logical conclusion, this audacious project would eventually create an African Common Market of 1.2 billion people and a GDP of over $3.4 billion — the metrics are comparable to India’s. The AfCFTA would be world’s largest FTA, and in a world dependent on African markets and commodities, it would have global impact. Connecting the dots: Analyse the significance of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) for India and the world. (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 Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, (which was amended in 2018),  Rural areas have been brought in ambit of these Rules First time, responsibility of waste generators is being introduced. Select the correct statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code frequently seen in news is related to, Cyber crime Sedition  Child labour None of the above Q.3) “Plan Bee” recently seen in news is, Bee keeping plan to enable natural pollination  It is an amplifying system imitating the buzz of a swarm of honey bees to keep wild elephants away from railway tracks. Beekeeping or apiculture to produce honey. None of the above MUST READ One more quota India Express Going electric: on plans to switch to electric vehicles The Hindu Reserve Bank of India’s new sweeping powers Live mint

Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 23

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 23 Archives Q.1) Recently, scientists from Mumbai-based Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) developed a new material known as ‘Black Gold’. Consider the following statements  It can potentially be used for solar energy harvesting and desalinating seawater It was developed using gold nanoparticles and by rearranging size and gaps between them Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘World Food Programme’ It is the world's largest humanitarian organization addressing hunger and promoting food security. The WFP operations are funded by voluntary donations from governments of the world, corporations and private donors Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Which of the following is India's first UNESCO heritage city? Jaipur Ahmedabad Varanasi New Delhi Q.4) Godavari River drains which of the following states? Maharashtra  Telangana  Andhra Pradesh Chhattisgarh Odisha Select the correct code: 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 1, 2, 3 and 4 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Shahtoosh’ Shahtoosh shawls are prepared from the fur in the undercoat of Pashmina goats Selling or owning of shahtoosh was made illegal in all countries that signed the CITES Convention Select the correct statements  1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

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