Aug 4, 2019 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Science of Meditation – Inspirational Educative Articles

Science of Meditation: Meditation marks the beginning of a new quest in man to know himself. Meditation is the science of knowing oneself. It is a systematic way of using our own consciousness, our own awareness, to understand the phenomenon of life that is happening right here and right now. The science is so pure that it does not use any external instruments; it does not use any external objects, and it is not about going somewhere. It is not about the external reality at all. As far as meditation is concerned, the universe is the individual. If there is space somewhere in the universe, that space is within the individual. If there is air in the universe, it is within the individual. If there is matter, it’s within the individual. If there is gravity, it’s felt by the individual. There is absolutely nothing that exists in the universe that is not experienced by the individual. Light, darkness, solid, liquid, good, bad; everything is experienced and perceived by the individual. Meditation is the science of knowing what is this perception, and why are we perceiving the world the way we are perceiving it?  Naturally, just like experiencing the benefits of knowledge, when we know more about something, we can use it better. It’s the same with meditation. Meditation gives us the keys to unlock the doors of our minds and bodies. We have a body and we have a mind, but the mystery of how they function is hidden behind these closed doors. We have to explore our inner space to know how we function; the connection between the simplest of things. What is the connection between my desire and my thoughts? What is the connection between a thought and my body? Who leads who? Who is the master? Who is the servant? What is control? Where do I get control from? “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of MeditationFarm and IASBABA.”

Aug 3, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 3rd August 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 3rd August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Institutions of Eminence Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS- II – Issues relating to development and management of Education In News UGC recommends 20 institutions for Institutes of Eminence Background: After no Indian University found a place in World University ranking in 2017, the government decided to set up Institutions of eminence in India A notification released by UGC in Sep 2017, proposed to establish 20 such world class institutes (10 public and 10 private).It provides for Greenfield category too. Benefits of the status Autonomy: The IOE will enjoy greater autonomy in terms of deciding their fee structure and course duration & structure.  They will be exempt from approvals of government or UGC for academic collaboration with foreign institutions Funding: The 10 public institutions selected will get Rs 1000 crore each from HRD ministry to achieve world class status. No financial assistance will be offered to private institutions https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA9wg2hUwAIjw9d?format=jpg&name=360x360 https://pbs.twimg.com/media/EA9whZNUEAEjBxz?format=jpg&name=360x360 Census 2021 Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS II - Issues relating to development and management of Human resources. In News Census 2021 is unlikely to collect “caste wise” data as a similar exercise conducted in 2011 threw up about 40 lakh caste names that were difficult to tabulate Census 2021 exercise will be done in three phases House Listing phase: comprising 34 categories, It will be done from April to September 2020 Enumeration phase: Comprising 28 categories will be held between Feb 9 and 28, 2021 Revision: It will be done from March 1 to 5,2021 Government teachers will conduct the exercise (nearly 3 million enumerators) There will be a third gender category this time Data will be conducted on web based application developed under the Registrar General Every citizen is compelled by law to participate in the exercise and denial could lead to criminal action Do You know? The responsibility of conducting the decennial Census rests with the Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India under Ministry of Home Affairs The results of Census 2011 took nearly nine years to be published. The digitisation of process will ensure that most parameters of 2021 census will be available by 2024-25 The 2011 caste data, collected as part of the Socio Economic Caste Census (SECC), is yet to be released by the Centre The SECC, 2011 was conducted through a comprehensive programme involving the Ministry of Rural Development, Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation, The Office of the Registrar General and Census Commissioner, India and the State Governments. Khanij Bidesh India Ltd. (KABIL)  Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS III - changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth. In News A joint venture company KABIL has been set up with the participation of three Central PSEs to ensure supply of critical and strategic Minerals to Indian domestic market.  These CPSEs are National Aluminium Company Limited(NALCO), Hindustan Copper Limited(HCL) and Mineral Exploration Company limited(MECL).  The equity participation between NALCO, HCL and MECL is in the ratio of 40:30:30 Among such twelve minerals identified as strategic minerals, which have meagre resource base, Lithium Cobalt are significant given the recent push for Electric Vehicle Mobility in India The KABIL would carry out identification, acquisition, exploration, development, mining and processing of strategic minerals overseas for commercial use and meeting country’s requirement of these minerals. (MAINS FOCUS) ENVIRONMENT/FOREST TOPIC: General Studies 1 Social empowerment General Studies 2 Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation The taproot of conservation justice Context Cutting down the Forests Right Act will only weaken the conservation regime and affect the rights of forest dwellers What is Forest rights Act? The Forest Rights Act (FRA) is a piece of social legislation which aims to address the historical injustice that our forest dwelling communities have had to face for nearly 150 years by providing them with security of tenure over land for cultivation and habitation through individual right It also provides access to a variety of resources through more than a dozen types of community forest rights.  The FRA also empowers forest dwelling communities to protect, regenerate, conserve and manage any community forest resource which they have been traditionally protecting and conserving for sustainable use.  It has the provision for creating critical wildlife habitats within protected areas which currently is the strongest conservation provision among existing laws of the country. Background of Forest Rights Act In the colonial era, the British diverted abundant forest wealth of the nation to meet their economic needs. While procedure for settlement of rights was provided under statutes such as the Indian Forest Act, 1927, these were hardly followed.  As a result, tribal and forest-dwelling communities, who had been living within the forests in harmony with the environment and the ecosystem, continued to live inside the forests in tenurial insecurity, a situation which continued even after independence as they were marginalised. The symbiotic relationship between forests and forest-dwelling communities found recognition in the National Forest Policy, 1988.  The policy called for the need to associate tribal people in the protection, regeneration and development of forests.  The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006, was enacted to protect the marginalised socio-economic class of citizens and balance the right to environment with their right to life and livelihood. Related Acts and Provisions: Wildlife protection Act 1972 This act prohibits the capturing, killing, poisoning or trapping of wild animals. It extends to the whole of India except the State of Jammu and Kashmir It also regulates and controls trade in parts and products derived from wildlife. 1988 National Forest Policy The policy aims at maintaining of environmental stability. It looks at conserving the natural heritage of the country by preserving the remaining natural forests. Increasing forest/tree cover in the country through massive afforestation and social forestry programmes. Creating a massive people’s movement for achieving these objectives and to minimise pressure on existing forests. The Provisions of the Panchayats (Extension to the Schedule Areas) Act 1996 (PESA) It safeguards and preserves the traditions and customs of the people, and their cultural identity, community resources, customary mode of dispute resolution. PESA empowers Gram Sabha/Panchayat at appropriate level with right to mandatory consultation in land acquisition, resettlement and rehabilitation of displaced persons. PESA seeks to reduce alienation in tribal areas as they will have better control over the utilisation of public resources. It will help minimise exploitation of tribal population as they will be able to control and manage money lending, consumption and sale of liquor and also village markets. PESA looks to promote cultural heritage through preservation of traditions, customs and cultural identity of tribal population. What does the Forest Rights Act provide for? The Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act or FRA was passed by the Parliament in 2006 and came into effect in 2008. It was intended to correct the “historical injustice” done to forest dwellers from the colonial times. [The traditional rights of such communities were derecognised by the British Raj in the 1850s.] The Act recognises and vests the forest rights and occupation in forest land in the forest dwelling Scheduled Tribes. It also covers other traditional forest dwellers who have been residing in such forests for generations but whose rights could not be recorded. The Act recognises - individual rights to forest land and livelihood community rights to forest 'land' exercised by their gram sabha community forest 'resource' rights, giving gram sabhas the power to protect and manage their forest Conservation plans and developmental projects in these areas would have to be approved by gram sabhas. Rights under the act There are different rights recognised under the act which can be summarised as following Title rights- i.e. right to ownership to land farmed by tribals or forest dwellers subject to a maximum of 4 hectares, ownership is only for land that is actually being cultivated by the concerned family and no new lands will be granted. Use rights- to minor forest produce (also including ownership), to grazing areas, to pastoralist routes, etc. Relief and development rights- to rehabilitation in case of illegal eviction or forced displacement and to basic amenities, subject to restrictions for forest protection Forest management rights- to protect and conserve forests and wildlife Legal challenges It is extremely unfortunate that the very constitutionality of the FRA was challenged in the Supreme Court in 2008 by about half a dozen conservation organisations.  The court has tagged many other cases including from several High Courts which are currently being heard jointly.  The court’s order of February 13, 2019 since put in abeyance by its order dated February 28, 2019 highlights the very tardy implementation of the FRA by the State governments. One of the key arguments of the petitioners has been that it is beyond the legislative competence of Parliament to enact the FRA as ‘land’ is a state subject.  Tenuous as this is, if this argument of the petitioners is accepted, the Wildlife Protection Act and the entire architecture of forest laws will have to be dismantled as ultra vires as all of them deal with ‘land’, including the Indian Forest Act and the Forest (Conservation) Act. Criticism of FRA The FRA has been savagely criticised as a land distribution legislation, which it is not.  The FRA very clearly states that forest dwellers who are either Scheduled Tribes or Other Traditional Forest Dwellers are only entitled to claim both individual and community forest rights through a clear process of submitting a claim and after its verification and subsequent approval or rejection.  For the rejected cases, an appeal process has been outlined.  The FRA aims to only confirm tenure and access rights which in some sense the forest dwellers have been exercising de facto but under severe restrictions and control especially by the forest department.  In fact, it is the failure of the state to settle pre-existing rights under existing forest and conservation laws that created the situation of historical injustice. The FRA does not sanction any fresh clearance of forest, as individual rights over land will only be granted if the forest dweller was in possession of that parcel of land on December 13, 2005. It also limits the extent of land that can be granted to the area that was occupied on December 13, 2005 and places an upper limit of four hectares per claimant for individual rights. These provisions are often overlooked or deliberately suppressed by those who criticise FRA. Conclusion: The FRA, by design, has tremendous potential to strengthen the conservation regime across India by recognising rights of forest dwellers over land and community forest resources, a key factor for conservation to succeed as shown both by research and practice in many countries. By democratising forest governance and conservation through the provision of rights and authority to local communities and gram sabhas for conservation and management of forests, the FRA will empower gram sabhas of the forest dwelling communities to halt the destruction of forests, as especially highlighted in the Niyamgiri case. Implementing the FRA in letter and spirit with empathy for forest dwellers will be a decisive step by India to achieve conservation justice. Connecting the dots: What is the genesis of Forest Rights Act? Critically analyse the successful implementation of the act with respect to tribal rights. ECONOMY TOPIC: General studies 2 & 3 Important International institutions, agencies and forums, their structure, mandate. Indian Growth & Economy Economic Developments Explaining the Asian rate cuts wave Content: Policy makers across Asia should ensure enough ammunition to manage a prolonged economic downturn Concerns: The latest International Monetary Fund (IMF)-World Economic Outlook update in July 2019 has confirmed a growing belief that global growth has decelerated and dark clouds seem to be looming in the near term.  Specifically, the IMF has downgraded global growth multiple times since October 2018 and now projects it to be 3.2% compared to 3.6% in 2018. The China Factor China is one of the few major economies that is expected to continue to decelerate into 2020 (along with Japan which is faced with acutely unfavourable demographics and seems unable to escape persistent deflationary pressures). The country has faced strong headwinds to growth both because of the ongoing supply-side reforms, including dealing with financial risks (reining in of shadow banking and hidden debt of local governments), as well as the negative effects of escalating tariffs and their consequent impact on its exports and investment. While there have been some short-term beneficiaries of the export and trade diversion from China to countries such as Vietnam, the global external demand slowdown has more than outweighed these gains.  Asian banks to the rescue In response to the global economic slowdown as well as generally subdued inflationary pressures, many Asian central banks (India, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, South Korea) have begun to ease monetary policy. The recent wave of rate cuts in Asia is consistent with research which suggests that emerging economies tend to be cautious about lowering interest rates  when the base country (usually the U.S.) does not do so as they are concerned about potential capital flight and sharp currency depreciations which in turn could have negative repercussions on domestic firms and other entities with unhedged external borrowings in foreign currencies. However, when interest rates in the base country decline, while emerging economies may experience massive surges in capital inflows if they stand pat on interest rates, they can maintain monetary policy autonomy via a combination of sterilised foreign exchange intervention (leading to sustained reserve accumulation) as well as tightening of capital controls and/or use of macro prudential policies (MaPs) Alternatively, if the emerging economies are themselves faced with an economic slowdown, they are comfortable lowering their interest rates along with the base country, as is the case currently in Asia.  This said, it is wise for Asian policy makers to ensure that they have enough ammunition to manage a prolonged downturn given that 2020 is “precarious” with many downside risks Where does all of this leave India?  On the one hand, since India has not been well-integrated with the Asian and global supply chains, it has not been as impacted directly by the China-U.S. trade war.  On the other hand, given existing acute domestic bottlenecks, policy missteps and ongoing structural challenges, India has not been able to reap significant benefits as an alternative production and export platform to China. On the back of a prolonged downturn in the capex cycle, the IMF has downgraded projected growth for India to 7% in 2019.  This is broadly in line with the forecasted range by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). While this growth is admirable relative to other major countries, it is well below the country’s likely potential growth of 7.5% and 8%. The concerns here however have been threefold. Despite the rapid interest rate cuts, India’s real interest rates are still higher than most other countries, though it remains unclear what the neutral real interest rate consistent with India’s potential output actually is. More than most other countries in the region, an ongoing concern for India is that interest rate policy transmission to bank rates tends to be rather slow and limited.This is likely due to a combination of factors:  The banking system has been faced with a deterioration in asset quality and remains saddled with bad debts. There has been and anaemic deposit growth. There is limited scope to reduce deposit rates. Despite the interest rate cuts, India’s real effective exchange rate (REER) has actually appreciated somewhat (around 7%) since October 2018, consistent with the fact that real interest rates have not declined Way forward: If India is to succeed in its ambition of becoming a $5-trillion economy by 2024-25, there can be no substitute for undertaking the necessary structural reforms needed to jump-start private investments and longer-term growth.  However, in the short term, in all likelihood, monetary policy will have to remain accommodative (more so than what it is currently) and much greater attention will be needed to be paid on how to revive public capex without raising the cost of capital further. In the face of constraints in raising revenues in a slowing economy, the government’s preferred solution seems to be to issue overseas sovereign bonds rather than streamline subsidies and revenue expenditures.  The proposed $10 billion sovereign issuance is manageable vis-à-vis the countries stock of forex reserves, while India’s sovereign external debt (as share of GDP) is modest at present.  However, increases in external borrowings add an additional element of risk to the economy.  Such a move also likely complicates monetary policy further, as any adverse exchange rate movements will lead to a ballooning of interest payments on government debt which is already eating up around a quarter of budgetary spending. It is not clear that the current policy mix is ideal for India. Connecting the dots: Critically examine the reasons for slowdown in the global economy with special reference to US and China. (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 Institutes of Eminence (IOE) The IOE will enjoy greater autonomy in terms of deciding their fee structure and course duration & structure  Only existing institutions are given the status of IOE All the 20 IOC will get Rs 1000 crore each from HRD ministry to achieve world class status Which of the statement(s) given above is/are incorrect? 1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements about Census It is a decennial exercise carried out by Office of the Registrar General & Census Commissioner, India Every citizen is compelled by law to participate in the exercise and denial could lead to criminal action Socio-Economic Caste Census -2011 was conducted by Ministry of Home Affairs Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.3) Consider the following statements about Khanij Bidesh India Limited(KABIL) It has been set up as subsidiary of National Mineral Development Coporation of India, a Navaratna company Its objective is to ensure supply of critical and strategic Minerals to Indian domestic market  Which of the statement(s) given above is / are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Must Read Two plus one Indian Express UAPA Bill gets Rajya Sabha nod The Hindu Too much of reforms has led to slowdown The Hindu Rethinking money: Ideas for capitalism  Livemint

Aug 2, 2019 IASbaba's Monthly Current Affairs Magazine

IAS UPSC Current Affairs Magazine JULY 2019

IAS UPSC Current Affairs Magazine JULY 2019 ARCHIVES Hello Friends, This is the 50th edition of IASbaba’s Current Affairs Monthly Magazine. Current Affairs for UPSC Civil Services Examination is an important factor in this preparation. An effort towards making your Current Affairs for IAS UPSC Preparation qualitative. We hope you make the best use of it! This edition covers all important current affairs issues that were in news for the month of JULY 2019 DOWNLOAD THE MAGAZINE- CLICK HERE

Aug 2, 2019 Important Articles

Interaction Session by Rahul Sharanappa Sankanur, Rank 17 UPSC CSE 2018 on 4th August (Sunday)- OPEN TO ALL !!

Hi, There will be an interaction session by Rahul Sharanappa Sankanur, Rank 17 UPSC CSE 2018 on 4th August (Sunday) at 11.30 am. Haling from Hubli town in Karnataka, he secured Rank 17 in his 4th attempt. His Optional was Anthropology. It's been an inspirational journey with many up's and down's throughout his upsc preparation. UPSC Prelims 2018 was considered to be one of the toughest, but he was way ahead of the cut off scoring 133.34 in GS and 148.33 in CSAT. In Mains, he was one of the top scorer in Essay(137 Marks), Ethics (119 Marks) and in Interview (193 Marks). It's very rare to see an aspirant performing equally well in all the 3 phases of UPSC Preparation. So meet him in person, attend the session and make the best use of his experience, guidance and do's and dont's in the unpredictable journey called upsc. Both Fresher's and Veterans can attend the session. It is OPEN TO ALL !!   For Rahul's Strategy and Marks sheet -> CLICK HERE   Date and Timings: 4th August (Sunday) from 11.30 am -1 pm. Venue: Chandra Layout Centre: No. 1443/1444, Above Carzspa, 80 Ft. Main Road, Ganapathi Circle, Chandra Layout, Bengaluru- 560040   Thank You IASbaba    

Aug 2, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 2nd August 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 2nd August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Triple Talaq Act Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS- I – Indian Society In News President has given his assent to the Triple Talaq Bill that makes giving instant oral triple talaq a criminal offense with provisions of jail term up to three years. The triple talaq law or the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights On Marriage) Act, 2019, has come into effect retrospectively from September 19, 2018. The law now gives a police officer the power to arrest the offender without requiring a warrant However, to check misuse, the police takes cognisance only if the complaint is filed by the aggrieved woman or any of her relation by blood or marriage.  The Bill also provides for bail by a magistrate but only after hearing the aggrieved woman The aggrieved woman is entitled to demand a maintenance for her and her dependent children under the Act Do you know? In August 2017 the Supreme Court, by a majority of 3:2, set aside the practice of triple talaq in Shyara Bano Case.  The judgment held triple talaq to be unconstitutional under Article 14 read with Article 13(1) and concluded that the practice is not essential to the practice of Islam(Article 25) The practice of “triple talaq” was abolished in 38 countries including Muslim-majority countries of Saudi Arabia, Morocco, Afghanistan and Pakistan National Medical Commission(NMC) Part of: Mains GS II - Issues relating to development and management of Health. In News National Medical Commission Bill was passed by Rajya Sabha. The bill proposes to repeal Indian Medical Council Act, set up an NMC replacing MCI Proposed NMC will approve medical colleges, conduct MBBS examinations, regulate course fees The bill has a provision for constitution of 4 autonomous boards. These boards will look after issues related to UG education, PG education, assessment & accreditation of institutions, registration of practitioners. The bill proposes a common final-year MBBS exam, the National Exit Test (NEXT), before an individual starts practising medicine and for seeking admission to post-graduate medical courses. The NMC will regulate fees for half of the seats in medical colleges at both MBBS and postgraduate level in all private and deemed universities.  The bill empowers the government can grant licence to Community Health Providers (CHPs) to practice modern medicine for primary and preventive healthcare, This means CHPs (presently 2.5 lakh) can then prescribe limited allopathic medicines –a power which so far possessed only by those who hold an MBBS degree. Chimera Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS III- Science & Technology Chimera is an organism containing a mixture of genetically different tissues, formed by processes such as fusion of early embryos, grafting, In News The Japanese government has allowed to conduct human-animal embryo experiments, with the ultimate goal of someday creating organs to be transplanted into humans The cutting-edge — but controversial — research involves implanting modified animal embryos with human “induced pluripotent stem” (iPS) cells that can be coaxed into forming the building blocks of any part of the body The research involves generating animal embryos — mice, rats or pigs — that lack a particular organ such as a pancreas. The modified embryos are then implanted with human iPS cells that can grow into the missing pancreas.  The embryos would be transplanted into wombs where they could theoretically be carried to term with a functioning human pancreas. Indus Script Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS I- Indian Culture In News Discovered from nearly 4,000 ancient inscribed objects, including seals, tablets, ivory rods, pottery shards, etc., the Indus inscriptions are one of the most enigmatic legacies of the Indus Valley civilization  They have not been deciphered due to the absence of bilingual texts, extreme brevity of the inscriptions, and ignorance about the language(s) encoded by Indus script. A new research says that a majority of these inscriptions were written logographically (by using word signs) and not by using phonograms (speech sounds units) The inscribed seals and tablets were used in some administrative operation that controlled the commercial transactions prevalent in the trade-savvy settlements of the ancient Indus valley Civilisation.  The research points out that the inscriptions can be compared to the structured messages found on stamps, coupons, tokens and currency coins of modern times. https://www.thehindu.com/society/history-and-culture/il8bbi/article28787526.ece/ALTERNATES/FREE_460/2th-HinduFig (MAINS FOCUS) ECONOMY Topic: General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. General Studies 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Inclusive growth and issues arising from it. Effects of liberalization on the economy, changes in industrial policy and their effects on industrial growth. Micro- Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) Context: The low rate of greenfield investment could reflect poor demand for credit and supply-side problems among NBFCs What are MSMEs Micro- Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) are small sized entities, defined in terms of their size of investment.  They are contributing significantly to output, employment export etc. in the economy.  They perform a critical role in the economy by providing employment to a large number of unskilled and semi-skilled people, contributing to exports, raising manufacturing sector production and extending support to bigger industries by supplying raw material, basic goods, finished parts and components, etc. How MSMEs are classified? The MSMEs are classified in terms of investment made in plant and machineries if they are operating in the manufacturing sector and investment in equipment for service sector companies. Though the primary responsibility of promotion and development of MSMEs is of the State Governments, the center has passed an Act in 2006 to empower the sector and also has formed a Ministry (Ministry of MSMEs).     Manufacturing sector Enterprises Investment in plant & machinery Micro Enterprises Does not exceed twenty five lakh rupees Small Enterprises More than twenty five lakh rupees but does not exceed five crore rupees Medium Enterprises More than five crore rupees but does not exceed ten crore rupees Service sector Enterprises Investment in equipments Micro Enterprises Does not exceed ten lakh rupees: Small Enterprises More than ten lakh rupees but does not exceed two crore rupees Medium Enterprises More than two crore rupees but does not exceed five crore rupees New Classification: A micro enterprise will be defined as a unit where the annual turnover does not exceed five crore rupees; A small enterprise will be defined as a unit where the annual turnover is more than five crore rupees but does not exceed Rs 75 crore; A medium enterprise will be defined as a unit where the annual turnover is more than 75 crore rupees but does not exceed Rs 250 crore. Additionally, the Central Government may, by notification, vary turnover limits, which shall not exceed thrice the limits specified in Section 7 of the MSMED Act. Organizational structure The primary responsibility of promotion and development of MSMEs is of the State Governments The role of the Ministry of MSME and its organisations is to assist the States in their efforts to encourage entrepreneurship, employment and livelihood opportunities and enhance the competitiveness of MSMEs The Ministry of MSME consists of Small & Medium Enterprises (SME) Division, Agro & Rural Industry (ARI) Division, Integrated Finance (IF) Wing and Data Analytics and Technical Coordination (DATC) Wing, the Office of the Development Commissioner (DCMSME) and other attached organizations. What is the potential of India’s MSME sector? Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) play a vital role in the growth of Indian economy by contributing 45% of industrial output, 40% of exports. It employs 60 million people, creates 1.3 million jobs every year and produces more than 8000 quality products for the Indian and international markets. There are approximately 30 million MSME Units in India and 12 million persons are expected to join the workforce in the next 3 years. Importance of MSME in India: It creates large-scale employment:  Enterprises that are inclusive in this sector require low capital to start up new business. Moreover, it creates a vast opportunity for the unemployed people to avail. India produces about 1.2 million graduates per year out of which the total number of engineers are around 0.8 million. There is no economy so far that could provide that large number of freshers in one year only. MSME is the boon for the fresh talent in India. Economic stability in terms of Growth and leverage Exports: It is the most significant driver in India contributing to the tune of 8% to GDP. Considering the contribution of MSME to manufacturing, exports, and employment, other sectors are also benefitting from it. Nowadays, MNCs are buying semi-finished, and auxiliary products from small enterprises,  Encourages Inclusive Growth: The inclusive growth is at the top of the agenda of Ministry for Medium, and small and Medium-sized enterprises for several years. On the other hand, poverty and deprivation are a deterrent to the development of India. Besides, it includes marginalized sections of a society which is a key challenge lying before the Ministry of MSME. Cheap Labor and minimum overhead: While in the large-scale organizations, one of the main challenge is to retain the human resource through an effective human resource management professional manager. But, when it comes to MSME, the requirement of labor is less and it does not need a highly skilled laborer. Therefore, the indirect expenses incurred by the owner is also low. Simple Management Structure for Enterprises: MSME can start with limited resources within the control of the owner. From this decision making gets easy and efficient. On the contrary, a large corporation requires a specialist for every departmental functioning as it has a complex organizational structure. Whereas a small enterprise does not need to hire an external specialist for its management. The owner can manage himself. Hence, it could run single-handedly. The main role in the mission of “Make in India”: The signature initiative by the Prime Minister of India “Make in India” has been made easy with MSME. It is taken as a backbone in making this dream a possibility. In addition, the government has directed the financial institution to lend more credit to enterprises in the MSME sector. The list of the problems that are faced by existing/new companies in SME sector are as under: Absence of adequate and timely banking finance Limited capital and knowledge Non-availability of suitable technology Low production capacity Ineffective marketing strategy Constraints on modernisation & expansions Non availability of skilled labour at affordable cost Follow up with various government agencies to resolve problems due to lack of man power and knowledge etc The problem of low investment in MSMEs and what we can do  Structural problems retarding growth in pre-existing MSMEs: The Economic survey is more about the structural problems retarding growth in pre-existing MSMEs rather than the immediate problem, which is the lack of fresh investment. The chapter 3 of Economic survey  provides evidence that firms in India, whether they start out above or below the 100 worker line, do not grow as much over time as they do elsewhere because of these restrictions One of the many reasons why the generalized fear of being laid off from a job is particularly intense in India is because, until recently, pensions under the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) often died with the job, since the EPFO number was not portable. An age-related sunset clause to downsizing flexibility (as recommended by the ES) could switch off investment in MSME: A start below the downsizing threshold, despite the scale economies of being bigger, could be because of high downside risk to demand projections, which would vary by sector.  Then there is also a spatial dimension to the issue. Investment within agglomerations is less risky than stand-alone units in a provincial location Provincial MSME startups may be especially sensitive to an age-related sunset to downsizing flexibility. there are multiple thresholds that a small, young firm may not wish to cross. The goods and services tax (GST) has added another threshold, defined in terms of turnover, below which compliance is less burdensome.  All these thresholds would have to carry age-related sunset clauses for the incentive to work, but the most likely impact would be to discourage MSME startups altogether.  On the supply of credit:  Since banks have to now move in where NBFCs fear to tread, there could be process delays resulting from difficulties in due diligence, especially for locations spatially removed from major urban centres. Steps taken by the Government: Credit Guarantee Trust Fund for Micro & Small Enterprises (CGTMSE): Ministry of MSME and Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI), established a Trust named Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises (CGTMSE) to implement Credit Guarantee Fund Scheme for Micro and Small Enterprises and provide financial assistance to MSMEs. A Scheme for Promoting Innovation, Rural Industry & Entrepreneurship (ASPIRE): It aims to set up a network of technology centers, incubation centres to accelerate entrepreneurship and also to promote start-ups for innovation and entrepreneurship in rural and agriculture based industry Micro & Small Enterprises Cluster Development (MSE-CDP): It aims to support the sustainability and growth of MSEs by addressing common issues such as improvement of technology, skills and quality, market access, access to capital, etc. National Manufacturing Competitiveness Programme: The objective is to develop global competitiveness among Indian MSMEs. This programme targets at enhancing the entire value chain of the MSME sector. SFURTI-SI (Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries, Credit Guarantee Scheme): The scheme aims to organize the traditional industries and artisans into clusters to make them competitive and provide support for their long term sustainability and economy of scale Technology Centre Systems Programme (TCSP): Under this programme, technology centres have been developed for giving technical education and support to MSMEs MUDRA (Micro Units Development & Refinance Agency Ltd.): The establishment of the MUDRA (Micro Units Development & Refinance Agency Ltd.) bank under the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana has been a major initiative. The Bank gives loans for working capital and additional requirements to income generating small business activity in manufacturing, processing, services or trading. Credit Linked Capital Subsidy Scheme (CLCSS): CLCSS aims at facilitating technology upgradation of Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) by providing 15% capital subsidy (limited to maximum Rs.15 lakhs) for purchase of Plant & Machinery. Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP): The major objective is to generate employment opportunities in rural as well as urban areas of the country through setting up of new self- employment ventures/ projects/ micro enterprises. Udyog Aadhaar Memorandum (UAM): It is a simple one-page registration form aimed at easing out registration process. MSME SAMADHAAN: The Ministry of MSME launched a portal samadhaan.msme.gov.in. to facilitates MSEs to file their delayed payments related complaints online. Market assistance Scheme: It aims to help MSMEs to participate domestic and international exhibitions/trade fairs etc. Conclusion: MSME is the backbone of the Indian economy. This sector has proven the instrumental in the growth of the nation, leverage exports, creating huge employment opportunities for the unskilled, fresh graduates, and the underemployed.  It also extended the opportunities to banks for giving more credit to enterprises to MSME Sector.  The government should take the special care by addressing the importance of MSME in terms of providing more and more MSME Registration advantages by implementing better regulations and enable financial institutions to lend more credit at less interest rate for sustainability of this sector. Connecting the dots: Analyse the challenges that make Indian manufacturing less competitive globally? How can India ensure a greater share in global GDP from manufacturing? Do you think the micro, small and medium industries hold the key to India’s industrial growth? Examine. POLITY 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. National Medical Commission(NMC)bill 2019 Context: The National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill, 2019 has been passed by Rajya Sabha on August 1, 2019 even as hundreds of doctors are protesting across India. The Bill is replacing Medical Council of India (MCI) with National Medical Commission. National Medical commission bill 2019 Lok Sabha, the central government has made a fresh bid to replace the controversial Indian Medical Council (IMC) with a National Medical Commission (NMC) to regulate medical education and practices in India.  While the Medical Council of India (MCI) was an autonomous body with two-third of its members (160 plus) being directly elected by the medical fraternity, the new one would have 25 members with no directly elected member. What the Bill provides? The National Medical Commission Bill of 2019 proposes to have four autonomous boards to take care of its different functions: (i) Under-Graduate Medical Education Board to set standards and regulate medical education at undergraduate level (ii) Post-Graduate Medical Education Board to set standards and regulate medical education at postgraduate level (iii) Medical Assessment and Rating Board for inspections and rating of medical institutions and (iv) Ethics and Medical Registration Board to regulate and promote professional conduct and medical ethics and also maintain national registers of (a) licensed medical practitioners and (b) Community Health Providers (CHPs). As for admissions and licensing, the Bill provides for a National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET) for admission to all undergraduate and post-graduate "super-speciality" medical education, while providing for another one, National Exit Test (NEXT) for granting "license" to practice and admission to postgraduate "broad-speciality courses". The Bill also proposes for the NMC to "frame guidelines for determination of fee and other charges" for 50% of seats in private medical institutions and deemed to be universities. Currently, state governments determine fees for 85% of seats in such institutions and the rest are left for the management. Other powers of the NMC include permission to establish new medical colleges, start post-graduate courses, increase the number of seats, recognition of medical qualifications in and outside India etc IMA's four major concerns The first one is over the CHPs being allowed to practice modern medicine. The Bill does not define who they are or what qualifications they hold and yet they are to be given licenses to the extent of one-third of the total number of licensed medical practitioners in India The second major objection is to the proposed National Exit Test (NEXT) for giving both licenses for practice (to those who have already cleared the MBBS exam) as well as for admission to post-graduate "broad-speciality courses" The third major objection is to "frame guidelines" to determine fees and all other charges for 50% of seats in private medical institutions and deemed to be universities (the MCI did not have such powers). The fourth major objection is about the power the Bill gives to the central government to give policy and other directives to the NMC and its autonomous boards which will be binding and final. Six reasons why governments would like to regulate medical education: To ensure that doctors are appropriately trained and skilled to address the prevailing disease burden To ensure that medical graduates reflect a uniform standard of competence and skills To ensure that only those with basic knowledge of science and aptitude for the profession get in To ensure ethical practice in the interest of the patients To create an environment that enables innovation and research To check the corrosive impact of the process of commercialisation on values and corrupt practices. Conclusion: No law is perfect. It is dependent upon the people who interpret and implement it. Government has, under this Bill, arrogated to itself an unprecedented power to appoint people in the various arms of the proposed structure. The quality and integrity of these people will then define the future of the health system in India. Connecting the dots: Healthcare is an important area for development of nation and thus matters the quality of healthcare practitioners. Critically examine the salient features of National Medical Commission Bill 2019. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements The Bill becomes an act only after the President has given assent to it The President can give assent or withhold assent to a Constitutional Amendment Bill The enactment of ex-post-fact laws (having retrospective effect) is prohibited only on Criminal laws and Tax laws and not on civil laws. Which of the statement(s) given above is/are incorrect? 1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements about National Medical Commission(NMC) NMC will replace the Medical Council of India NMC has the power to regulate the fees of 50% of seats in private medical colleges NMC is purely a Central body with no representation from States Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 1 only 2 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.3) Consider the following statements. Stem cells are basic cells that can become almost any type of cell in the body Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are adult cells that have been genetically reprogrammed to an embryonic stem cell–like state Recently UK government has allowed researchers to implant human iPSCs into animal embryos with aim to develop human organs  Which of the statement(s) given above is / are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only 1,2, and 3 MUST READ How technology can be harnessed for social good Livemint India unhappy with U.S. aid to Pakistan The Hindu The rise of unemployment rate, within various religious groups Indian Express Gender justice The Hindu

Aug 2, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 40

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 40 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to PRAGATI: It is aimed at addressing common man’s grievances, and simultaneously monitoring and reviewing important programmes and projects of the Government of India as well as projects flagged by State Governments It involves Digital data management, video-conferencing and geo-spatial technology Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 Only  2 Only  Both 1 and 2 None of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs)’ It is governed by the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA) A limited liability partnership (LLP) cannot raise ECBs Select the correct statements  1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements about ‘Public Accounts Committee (PAC)’ It was first set up in the wake of the Montague-Chelmsford Reforms It is formed every year with all the members from Rajya Sabha 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 ‘equalisation levy’ It is aimed at taxing business-to-business transactions in the digital advertising space It is an indirect tax which was introduced through Finance Act, 2016 Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) ‘Distance to Frontier’ score is associated with which of the following organisations? World Economic Forum World Bank World Trade Organisation International Monetary Fund To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Aug 1, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 1st August 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 1st August 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Inter-State river water disputes Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS- II - issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure In News Lok Sabha passed a bill to establish a single central tribunal for inter-state water disputes in place of the numerous existing ones so as to speed up resolution process The tribunal can set up multiple benches for different disputes Composition of Central tribunal – Chairperson (retired SC judge), a vice-chairperson, three judiciary members and three experts. Appointment of tribunal members - by the Central government on recommendation of a selection committee comprising the PM, CJI and ministers of law & justice and Jal Shakti The bill proposes to set up a dispute resolution committee of experts, headed by a secretary-level officer of the government. Once a dispute arises, it would be referred to this committee, which would have a year to resolve it, with an extension of six months If the committee fails to arrive at a conclusion, the matter would be referred to a Central tribunal whereby final award will be delivered in two years and whenever it gives the order, the verdict will be notified automatically. The decision of the tribunal would be binding on states and have the “same force as an order of the Supreme Court" Concerns raised by Opposition A major concern has been over data collection from river basins, the core of adjudication. Centralization of powers as the selection committee to recommend tribunal members does not have any representation from the States  Do you know? India has 18 % of the world's population but only 4% replenishable water At present, there are nine tribunals including those on Cauvery, Mahadayi, Ravi and Beas, Vansadhara and Krishna river.  Of the nine tribunals set up to adjudicate such disputes, only four have given their awards and the time taken to do so ranged from seven to 28 years Centre has constituted a National Water Informatics Centre on March 2018, which will collate data from all organizations including the Central Water Commission, IMD and state departments. Happiness Classes Part of: Mains GS II- Issues relating to development and management of Education. In News ‘Happiness Utsav ’was organised by the Delhi government to celebrate a year since the launch of happiness classes in Delhi government schools. “Without happiness, education can never be complete.” CJI Ranjan Gogoi said while speaking at the concluding ceremony Happiness classes in schools is need of the hour as India’s position on the World Happiness Index has dropped from 118 to 140 WHI is an annual publication of the United Nations Sustainable Development Solutions Network. Four states -Manipur, Madhya Pradesh, Puducherry and Nagaland – have planned to replicate Delhi’s Happiness classes in their state-run schools. Equalization Levy Part of: GS Prelims and Mains GS III- Indian economy and Government Budgeting In News Domestic SMEs and start-ups have written to centre complaining about the equalisation levy as foreign companies continue to invoice Indian start-ups and SMEs from their overseas office. The equalisation levy, introduced in 2016, is a direct tax on payments made by residents to non-resident companies for online advertisement, provision of digital and advertising space or any other facility or service for online advertisement. Indian start-ups and SMEs are required to deposit 6% equalisation levy (TDS) on behalf of these foreign companies which leads to additional compliance and cost burden on these firms Since this is a levy, these firms are unable to claim Input Tax Credit for this cost incurred In order to rectify this, the start-ups have requested the government to mandate that “any global corporation having sales and marketing operations in India must be required to invoice their customers in India from a registered entity in India.” Do you know? Market for online ads on which a 6% equalization levy is applied is up from ₹9,800 crore in FY18 to ₹11,870 crore till February 2019 The idea behind the equalization levy is to tax services of digital service providers in foreign markets which has customer base in India (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS TOPIC: GS paper 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. Fortifying the Africa outreach Context: This week two important Indian dignitaries began their respective visits to Africa. President Ram Nath Kovind commenced his seven-day state visit to Benin, Gambia and Guinea-Conakry (July 28 to August 3) and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Maputo on a three-day visit (July 28 to July 30) to Mozambique. Concerns: There seems to be a conspicuous disconnect between Indian developmental assistance to and India’s economic engagement with Africa Economic ties of India and Africa: During the past five years, Indian leaders have paid 29 visits to African countries.  Forty-one African leaders participated in the last India-Africa Forum Summit in 2015 India agreed to provide concessional credit worth $10 billion during the next five years.  Trade ties of India and Africa: By 2017, India had cumulatively extended 152 Lines of Credit worth $8 billion to 44 African countries.  India has also unilaterally provided free access to its market for the exports of 33 least developed African countries India escalated its commitments to Africa in an era of low-commodity prices when most other partners, including China, have scaled back theirs. India’s trade with Africa totalled $63.3 billion in 2018-19. India was ranked the third largest trading partner of Africa having edged past the United States during the year. Issues in India and Africa Relations: India is neither a rich country nor has its hands been tainted by a history of slavery, colonisation and the exploitation of Africa.  In fact, it is a developing country with similar domestic challenges of poverty, infrastructure deficit and underdevelopment.  India’s funds committed and seats in our prestigious academic institutions offered to Africa are at the expense of the tax-paying Indians.  India’s aid to Africa should be reciprocated by acknowledgement and quid pro quo in terms of goodwill (beyond the easy-flowing official rhetoric), and institutional preference.  India cannot simply be a cash cow for Africa, particularly when its own economy is slowing down. Steps to be considered by India: we need to take direct control of our development programme instead of handing our funds to intermediaries such as the African Union, the African Development Bank Group and the Techno-Economic Approach for Africa-India Movement (TEAM 9), whose priorities are often different from India’s To make an impact, our aid should be disbursed bilaterally and aligned with national priorities of the recipient state, which should be a substantial stakeholder and co-investor in schemes and projects from initiation to operation. India’s development assistance should prefer the countries with its substantial interests, both existing and potential For Example: Nigeria, South Africa, Egypt, Ghana, Angola and Algeria are India’s top six trading partners in Africa, accounting for nearly two-thirds of its trade and half its exports to the continent; yet, they do not figure commensurately in India’s developmental pecking order.  India’s own needs for raw materials, commodities and markets should be factored in its aid calculus We ought to prefer aiding countries which are willing to help us — from access to their natural resources to using our generics. The aided project selected should be compatible with local requirements. They should be cost-effective, scalable, future ready and commercially replicable. For greater transparency, India should prefer its public sector to implement the aid projects. The Indian Head of Mission in the recipient African state must be an integral part of the aid stream including project selection, co-ordination and implementation.  The aforementioned should not distract us from our duty to provide the needed humanitarian assistance to Africa to be rendered promptly and with sensitivity, but without noise. Conclusion: There seems to be a conspicuous disconnect between Indian developmental assistance to and India’s economic engagement with Africa.  The time has now come to integrate these two axes for a more comprehensive and sustainable engagement.  It would also facilitate aided pilot projects being scaled up seamlessly into commercially viable joint ventures. The simultaneity of the two visits may be a coincidence, but it also indicates enhanced priority to Africa. This should be welcomed. Connecting the dots: What makes India and African relations Unique? Discuss how these relations help the Indian economy? AGRICULTURE TOPIC-General studies Paper 3 Major crops cropping patterns in various parts of the country, different types of irrigation and irrigation systems storage, transport and marketing of agricultural produce  Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Concept of Farm ponds Context: Ponds can be an effective tool for rainwater harvesting Concerns: With an increased variability of monsoons and rapidly depleting groundwater tables, large parts of India are reeling under water stress. A number of peninsular regions like Bundelkhand, Vidarbha and Marathwada have been facing recurring drought-like situations.  There is a need to implement innovative water management measures, stressing particularly the importance of rainwater harvesting both at the household and community levels. What are Farm Ponds? A farm pond is a large hole dug out in the earth, usually square or rectangular in shape, to harvest rainwater and store it for future use. It has an inlet to regulate inflow and an outlet to discharge excess water.  Farmers build ponds for many reasons: irrigation, water for livestock, fire protection, erosion control, aquaculture, wildlife value, recreation and aesthetics. The size and depth depend on the amount of land available, type of soil, the farmer’s water requirements, cost of excavation, and the possible uses of the excavated earth.  Water from the farm pond is conveyed to the fields manually, by pumping, or by both methods. Retention of water through Farm ponds: Farm ponds retained water for 8-10 months of the year; thus farmers could enhance cropping intensity and crop diversification within and across seasons. The area used to cultivate vegetables and other commercial crops also increased In parts of peninsular India, They are being used as intermediate storage points, accelerating groundwater depletion and increasing evaporation losses as the groundwater is brought to the surface and stored in relatively shallow structures. Why it is necessary to have  inlet and outlet provisions to the Farm ponds? Farm ponds cannot arrest the excess run-off  if there is no inlet, and therefore they cannot be used effectively for rainwater harvesting as the same happened with Maharastra Further, farmers line them at the bottom with plastic, restricting seepage and converting the ponds into intermediate storage points. Such farm ponds have an adverse impact on the water tables and accelerate water loss.  The usual practice here is to lift water from a dug well and/or a borewell, store it in the pond and then draw it once again to irrigate the fields, often using micro-irrigation. What are the advantages of Farm Ponds? Farm ponds can be cost-effective structures that transform rural livelihoods.  They can help enhance water control, contribute to agriculture intensification and boost farm incomes They aided in superior water control through the harvesting not just of rainfall but also of surface run-off and subsurface flows especially in the states of Jharkhand and west Bengal. They functioned exclusively as recharge points, contributing to groundwater replenishment. They also helped in providing supplemental irrigation in the kharif season and an enhanced irrigation coverage in rabi.  The yield of paddy, the most important crop in kharif, stabilised, thus contributing to greater food security. Conclusion: Overall, farm ponds can act as effective harvesting structures and also yield healthy financial returns. But if they are promoted merely for on-farm storage of groundwater and canal water, they could accelerate, rather than reduce, the water crisis in the countryside. Connecting the dots: Agriculture is always a gamble in India with multiple factors being contingent. Critically analyse the budget provisions for agriculture and suggest the necessary modifications. (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 statement about Equalization levy It is an indirect tax on payments made by residents to non-resident companies for online advertisement services provided in India Indian start-ups and SMEs are required to deposit 6% equalisation levy on behalf of these foreign companies which leads to additional compliance These start-ups and SMES are able to claim Input Tax Credit for this cost incurred Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 only 2 and 3 only 1,2 and 3 Q.2) World Happiness Index is brought out by which of the following organisation? World Economic forum World Bank Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network Q.3) Consider the following statements. Article 280 of the constitution empowers the Parliament to make laws for the adjudication of inter-state water dispute. National Water Informatics centre was setup in 2018 as a single window source of updated data on water resources   Which of the statement(s) given above is / are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Which of the following states has a serious conflict on the sharing of waters of the Vansadhara Water Disputes? Andhra Pradesh and Odisha Andhra Pradesh and Telangana Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh Karnataka and Telangana MUST READ Cauldron of sexual misconduct The Hindu In hate crime fight, a voice still feeble The Hindu Fortifying the Africa outreach The Hindu Taking down patriarchy Indian Express Filter bubbles and echo chambers are dangerous, not quite the way most people think Financial Express

Aug 1, 2019 Important Articles

IMPORTANT TIPS ON ANSWER WRITING - Shreyans Kumat Rank 4, UPSC CSE 2018

IMPORTANT TIPS ON ANSWER WRITING - Shreyans Kumat Rank 4, UPSC CSE 2018 My Two Cents on Answer Writing It has been almost two weeks since Prelims results are out. Also, not much time is left before Mains. In between these quite different ways of testing, one has to shift gears and prepare oneself to write 4000 words in 3 hours twice a day for a few consecutive days. And, with the Prelims results, the horn has been blown. Usain Bolts and Asafa Powells of the world are already clocking good time in the practice sessions. It is crucial to maintain this practice every day for new as well as experienced runners in order to get great timings on the final day too. In this article, I will discuss the answer writing tips which worked for me, sources I had used to cover different parts of the syllabus and will post some practice tests for your reference. Answer Writing Almost everyone faces inertia when one tries to start with answer writing but the trick is to start anyway. One will write a bad answer for the first time or the second but definitely not the 100th time. Any good answer comprises of 3 crucial elements i.e. 1) Structure 2) Content 3) Presentation In the initial days of answer writing, it is difficult to have good quality content and presentation but one can easily practice structuring. 1. Structure It may sound cliché but it is important. Any answer should have a simple structure containing Introduction, Body, and Conclusion. a) Introduction: The introduction is a crucial element of any answer because it is the time when examiner makes an impression on the examinee’s understanding of the question asked. There are different ways of Introduction: - Connect it to some recent event - Describe the significance of the subject matter asked - Use of data point or fact to explain the gravity - Connect it some historical event - Define a technical term asked in the question etc. The introduction should be crisp and must be to the point, in line with the demand of the question. Some Introductions from practice tests b) Body: The body of the answer must address exactly what has been asked in the question. The body must be broken down into different sections answering different parts of the question. Keywords like Discuss, Critically examine, etc. are crucial in determining the areas one needs to address while answering. E.g. when the question asks “Do you think..?”, One needs to explain both sides of the issues i.e. for and against before giving one's inclination. Here is a document which describes the expectation out of each Keyword As a thumb rule, the body of the answer must have as many points as the marks allotted to the question by the examiner. It must clearly address different parts of the question asked. Relevant points should take priority and fodder points should be written later. As each part of the question has some marks associated with it, one must address every part to ensure maximization of the marks awarded by examiner. Read the question twice and underline parts to ensure none of the parts are missed. c) Conclusion: The conclusion is also a crucial element because it is after reading it the examiner will award marks. A positive, forward-looking and relevant conclusion has the potential to fetch an extra half mark. There are times when it is difficult to think of a conclusion, one can save one good point from the body and use it as a conclusion. Also, SDGs, Government Schemes, Case study, and vision like Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas can be good hinges to conclude. Following article has some good examples of such vision statements for conclusion— link 2. Content For the initial one month of answer writing, I felt that my content was not up to the mark. To this doubt, one of my senior replied, ‘Initially, we have to practice structure in answer writing with our average level of content. We have to ensure that we are addressing each and every part asked in the question with good and relevant points. Once we excel at that, when we try to analyze our answers using the model and best answers, slowly we start to improve on content as well.” There were different ways I had adopted to improve upon content apart from referring to my earlier notes: a) Sources: GS I 1. Modern History: Made personality and strand-specific notes (shared in sample notes) 2. Art and Culture: Short notes on culture including some details, Maps, diagrams (shared in sample notes) 3. Geography: Model answers of few sectional tests of Vision+ NCERT diagrams 4. Society: Model answers of few sectional tests of Vision + Mains 365 5. World History: Short notes (shared) 6. Post Independence History: Short notes (shared)   GS II 1. Polity: Mains 365 + Short notes — A4 size one-pagers (shared in sample notes) 2. Governance: Short notes — A4 size one-pagers (shared in sample notes) 3. International Relations: Mains 365 + Keyword one-pager   GS III 1. Economy & Agriculture: Mains 365 + Short notes on Infrastructure and Transportation topics 2. Security: Mains 365 3. Environment: Mains 365 4. Disaster Management: Short notes — A4 size one-pager   GS IV 1. Ethics: Excel with keywords, description, and examples (Shared in sample notes)   b) Answer Writing Practice: Daily writing practice (I had followed IASbaba'sTLP Phase II) also helped in improving content. On comparing my answer with model and best answers, I got good improvement points for structure, content as well as presentation.   3. Presentation Important points w.r.t. presentation: a) Different parts and sub-parts of the answer must be clearly visible b) Headings must be concise (preferably the same phrase as asked in the question) c) Headings can be highlighted — using a box or underline d) Underlining important words — as examiner generally goes through the answer vertically rather than reading every point, underlining makes his/her life easier e) Diagrams/Amoebas/Maps/SmartArts from PowerPoint should be added as and when needed to break the monotony of the answer sheet f) Spacing between lines and paragraphs, alignment and indentation should be proper g) Figures should be boxed and a proper description e.g. Fig 1. — — — should be added For the Marathon: It is pretty much possible to do the above mentioned in one particular answer. But the problem arises when we are asked to maintain consistency in 20 answers that too in a time bound manner. Hence, daily practice in a time bound manner becomes crucial. One must aim to answer all 20 questions with good quality content if not best. Some important points to remember: Like every runner needs good shoes, identify the pen which suits you and can endure along with you Allocate 7 mins to a 10 marker and so on to ensure proper time to each question Use a table stopwatch in the initial phase to attempt answers in a time bound manner. With enough practice muscle memory will take over and one will be able to complete each answer in a time bound manner Try to maximize the score by attempting all 20 answers Necessary food and beverage items should be kept nearby. Also, carry enough stationary in case of any eventuality Have a simulation run if you are attempting mains for the first time. I had taken Simulator Test at ForumIAS a week before the final mains — these copies are not checked. Take good care of your health — physical and mental. It is only this which will allow you to give your best on the final days. My Simulator Test Copies General Studies I — GS I General Studies II — GS II General Studies III — GS III General Studies IV— GS IV Wish you all the very best for next few months. Practice regularly so that you can also clock good timings and give a tough fight to Usain Bolts and Asafa Powells of the world. My best wishes. Hope the above share will help you in some way or the other. Practice. Analyze. Improve. Repeat. SHREYAN’S BLOG HERE – CLICK HERE Telegram channel: t.me/shreyansupsc. He is regularly sharing his sample notes and strategy on it. Thank You Shreyans Kumat (Rank 4, UPSC CSE 2018)

Aug 1, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 39

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 39 Archives Q.1) ‘Liberica’ and ‘Robusta’ is associated with Silk Coffee Tea Cotton Q.2) ‘TOI 270’ refers to a  Malware Planetary system Regulatory Sandbox Seed Vault Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Innovating for Clean Air (IfCA)’ It is funded by the World Bank It is a joint initiative between Indian and the United Kingdom 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 ‘Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS)’ It is being implemented by Department of Fertilizers, under Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. It ensures sufficient quantity of P&K; is available at farmer’s disposal at statutory controlled prices. Select the correct statements  1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Consider the following statements about Anti-dumping duty The Department of Commerce recommends the anti-dumping duty, while Ministry of Finance levies such duty It is imposed on both exports and imports The use of anti-dumping is not permitted by the WTO Select the correct statements 1 Only  1 and 2 1 and 3 All of the above To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Aug 1, 2019 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance: Book Review – Capitalism – Ayn Rand

Capitalism: Ayn Rand One of the most powerful and authoritative writers of our time, Ayn Rand has touch upon an extremely crucial and relevant topic for our generation. Is capitalism dying? How much is altruism affecting our understanding of capitalism? More and more people are beginning to lose faith in capitalism. People are beginning to see the ruthless nature of capitalism and are moving towards a more compassionate and simple lifestyle. What does this mean to the future of capitalism? In her characteristic and charismatic style Ayn Rand tackles this important subject with great depth of clarity and understanding. She believes that the world is changing rapidly and capitalism is changing too. Read this book to get a broader perspective of the changing landscape of reality all around us. This book holds some great answers to the future of capitalism and life. You will thoroughly enjoy the insights shared by Ayn Rand here.