Jun 18, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 18th June 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 18th June 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) India to host UN meet on land degradation in September Part of Prelims and mains GS III Environment and ecology In news India for the first time will host the 14th session of the Conference of Parties (COP-14) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) in September 2019. It will see participation from at least 5,000 delegates from nearly 197 countries and will be held between September 2 and 14 in Delhi One of the primary functions of the COP is to review reports submitted by the Country Parties, detailing how they are carrying out their commitments. India will takeover the COP presidency from China for two years until the next COP in 2021. India and UNCCD Ahead of the COP-14, India launched a flagship project, part of a larger international initiative called the Bonn Challenge, to enhance India’s capacity for forest landscape restoration (FLR). It will be implemented during a pilot phase of three-and-a-half years in Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Nagaland and Karnataka. The project will aim to develop and adapt the best practices and monitoring protocols for the country, and build capacity within the five pilot States. This will eventually be scaled up across the country India faces a severe problem of land degradation, or soil becoming unfit for cultivation. A 2016 report by the Indian Space Research Organisation found that about 29% of India’s land (in 2011-13) was degraded, this being a 0.57% increase from 2003-05. At the previous edition of the COP, India had committed to restore 13 million hectares of degraded and deforested land by the year 2020, and an additional 8 million hectares by 2030. The Bonn Challenge The Bonn Challenge is a global effort to bring 150 million hectares of the world’s deforested and degraded land under restoration by 2020, and 350 million hectares by 2030. The three sister conventions The United Nations has three major Conventions: the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Established in 1994, the UNCCD is the only legally binding international agreement linking environment and development issues to the land agenda. India to actively curb ‘conflict’ diamonds Part of Prelims and mains GS II: International peace and security In news India has committed to play an active role to curb the circulation of ‘conflict diamonds’ or ‘blood diamonds’ in the international market by further strengthening the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS). The 4Cs [cut, clarity, colour and carat] of diamond may soon be expanded to 5Cs with the fifth C being ‘conflict-free’. And the 5Ps of diamond marketing [precious, popular, prestige, priceless] will include ‘peace’ diamonds. KPCS Intersessional Meeting is an annual mid-year event of KPCS, which unites administrations, civil societies and diamond industry to reduce the flow of conflict diamonds used to finance wars against governments around the world, mostly in African countries. India is the KP chair for 2019. The ‘blood’ or ‘conflict’ diamonds had been almost excluded from global trade and now account for only 2%. Every rough diamond is accompanied by a certificate confirming its non-conflict origin, and export-import procedures in most of the countries are now subject to rigorous control. Do you know? The Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) is the process established in 2003 to prevent "conflict diamonds" from entering the mainstream rough diamond market by United Nations General Assembly Resolution 55/56 following recommendations in the Fowler Report. Bitcoin use causing huge CO2 emissions: Study Part of Prelims and mains GS III Environment and ecology, Technology Background: Bitcoin mining has increased rapidly in recent years, raising the question of whether it is imposing an additional burden on the climate. The use of Bitcoin — a popular virtual currency — emits over 22 megatonnes of carbon dioxide annually, comparable to the total emissions of cities such as Las Vegas and Vienna, a study has found. For a Bitcoin transfer to be executed and validated, a mathematical puzzle must be solved by an arbitrary computer in the global Bitcoin network.The network, which anyone can join, rewards the puzzle solvers in Bitcoin. The computing capacity used in this process — known as Bitcoin mining — has increased rapidly in recent years. Statistics show that it quadrupled in 2018 alone. The power consumption of the network depends primarily on the hardware used for Bitcoin mining. The annual electricity consumption by Bitcoin, as of November 2018, to be about 46 TWh. Naturally there are bigger factors contributing to climate change. However, the carbon footprint is big enough to make it worth discussing the possibility of regulating cryptocurrency mining in regions where power generation is especially carbon-intensive. To improve the ecological balance, one possibility might be to link more mining farms to additional renewable generating capacity Global Peace Index 2019 Part of Prelims: International relations, Mains: GS Paper II – International relations In news Global Peace Index 2019 is Published by Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP) This is the 13th edition of Global Peace Index which ranks 163 independent states and territories according to their levels of peacefulness. It ranks countries and regions on three broad based themes: Extent of conflict Safety and Security Level of militarisation According to the report, For the world as a whole, 2019 was the first time the peace score has improved in the last five years. West Asia and North Africa is the least peaceful region of the world followed by South Asia. Europe is the most peaceful region of the world. Afghanistan was the least peaceful country of the world in 2019. Earlier it was Syria. While Iceland remains the most peaceful country in the world. India: India’s rank: 141 (Down 5 ranks from 2018) India’s ranking and scores have deteriorated largely due to internal conflicts, the country’s relation with Pakistan and border tensions with China. In 2018, the report noted India’s score was high on the ‘Political Terror Scale’. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Governance Government policies and issues arising out of its implementation and design In the absence of good law Background What is public procurement? Public procurement refers to the purchase by governments and state-owned enterprises of goods, services and works. As public procurement accounts for a substantial portion of the taxpayers’ money, governments are expected to carry it out efficiently and with high standards of conduct in order to ensure high quality of service delivery and safeguard the public interest. Policies of the government Establishment of GeM: Government e Marketplace (GeM) is an online procurement platform for government ministries and departments, and the most widely used channel for public procurement in India.  MSMEs, DPIIT recognised startups and other private companies can register on GeM as sellers and sell their products and services directly to government entities. Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSME) order 2012: The Public Procurement Policy for Micro and Small Enterprises (MSME) order 2012 has mandated Every Central Ministry/Department/PSU shall set an annual goal for procurement from the MSE sector at the beginning of the year, with the objective of achieving an overall procurement goal of minimum 25 per cent of the total annual purchases from the products or services produced or rendered by MSEs. Government has issued Public Procurement (Preference to Make in India), Order 2017 Under this purchase preference shall be given to local suppliers in all procurements undertaken by procuring entities in the manner specified. As per the order the minimum local content shall ordinarily be 50%. The Nodal Ministry may prescribe a higher or lower percentage in respect of any particular item and may also prescribe the manner of calculation of local content. The margin of purchase preference shall be 20% . Lacunas in the Present system and steps needed Procurement by the government accounts for 30% of the GDP; yet there is no comprehensive parliamentary legislation till date to regulate such public procurement by the Central government. Charges of corruption are common and instead of legislation, there is a maze of regulations, guidelines and rules. Existing constitutional provisions are themselves no great help in this area. While Article 282 provides for financial autonomy in public spending, there are no further provisions that address any guidance on public procurement principles, policies, procedures or for grievance redress. State public procurement is regulated by a State Act only in five States: Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh and Assam. The grievance redress mechanisms provided in these Acts are not confidence-inspiring as they are neither independent nor effective. Frequent Litigations: Courts have imposed stringent self-imposed restrictions in the area of judicial review vis-à-vis tenders that the power to interfere is very sparingly exercised, if at all. The procuring officer is empowered by judicial principles such as “Government must be allowed a play in the joints”. Hence the legal framework is feeble. In such a depressing legal scenario, it is no surprise that public procurement tender awards are often challenged in constitutional courts. Hence need of the hour is to provide efficacious remedy to redress grievances. Need of Legislation Parliamentary legislation to regulate public procurements which provide adequate means for aggrieved parties to challenge inequities and illegalities in public procurement needs to be put in place. The United Progressive Alliance had introduced the Public Procurement Bill in the Lok Sabha in 2012, “to regulate public procurement with the objective of ensuring transparency accountability and probity in the procurement process”. The National Democratic Alliance, in 2015, revamped the provisions of the earlier Bill to come up with the Public Procurement Bill, 2015; but it is pending. Conclusion Public procurement is a crucial pillar of services delivery for governments. Because of the sheer volume of spending it represents, well governed public procurement can and must play a major role in fostering public sector efficiency and establishing citizens’ trust. Well-designed public procurement systems also contribute to achieving pressing policy goals such as environmental protection, innovation, job creation and the development of small and medium enterprises. Connecting the dots: Public procurement is a crucial pillar of services delivery for governments. Do you think there is need of a well designed public procurement policy? Elaborate. NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers & privileges and issues arising out of these. Qualifying for Leader of the Opposition Background With the formation of the 17th Lok Sabha, the question of a formally recognised Opposition party and Leader of the Opposition (LoP) of the Lok Sabha under the Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977, will arise. The Act extends to LoPs in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. What is Leader of Opposition? Opposition party and Leader of the Opposition (LoP) of the Lok Sabha is appointed under the Salary and Allowances of Leaders of Opposition in Parliament Act, 1977. The 1977 Act defines LoP as that member of the House who is the “Leader in that House of the party in opposition to the Government having the greatest numerical strength and recognised as such by the Chairman of the Council of States or the Speaker of the House of the People, as the case may be.” The Act extends to LoPs in the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha the same official status, allowances and perks that are admissible to Cabinet Ministers. Appointment of Leader of opposition In the case of the Lok Sabha, this is subject to recognition of the leader by the Speaker. The Speaker’s decisions in this regard have so far been determined by Direction 121(c) which laid down one of the conditions for recognition of party or group as having “at least a strength equal to the quorum fixed to constitute a sitting of the House, that is one-tenth of the total number of members of the House”. The Leaders and Chief Whips of Recognised Parties and Groups in Parliament (Facilities) Act, 1998 also refers to a recognised party in the Lok Sabha as a party that has not less than 55 members. It is important to note that the single party and not an alliance must meet the 10% seat criteria in this regard. Significance of Leader of opposition A party might not be able to form the government at the center because of the lack of majority, but that doesn’t take away the responsibility of acting as a watchdog of the ruling party. For a healthy Parliamentary democracy it is always considered essential that there should be a strong opposition, which should always be in a position to saddle itself in authority. The incumbent should offer constructive criticism of government policies. He/she has to ensure that House proceeds expeditiously and holds adequate debate on pressing issues. Recommendations for improvement In order to get the designation as the Opposition party, the party must have secured at least 10% of the total number of seats in the parliament. Thus the “party” should be replaced ‘party or pre-poll alliance’. Pre-poll alliances have credibility and legitimacy the President and Governors while deciding on who to call first for forming the government in cases where no party secures a clear majority support in the House, move to call pre-poll alliance. Proposed benefits It has the potential for the growth of a sound two- or three-party (or alliance) system. It could end the present system of having more than 2,000 parties being registered with the Election Commission. It may provide for candidates of an alliance contesting on a common symbol and an agreed common minimum programme with only national alliances or parties contesting for the Lok Sabha. Connecting the dots: Considering the importance of role played by the leader of opposition in Lok Sabha, do you think there is need to modify eligibility criteria for recognition of leader of opposition? (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note: Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) is, For international trade in genetically modifies agro based products. For elimination of conflict diamonds from international trade. Certification uranium enrichment for civil use None of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements Global Peace Index 2019 is Published by Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). It ranks countries and regions on three broad based themes: Extent of conflict, Safety and Security, and Level of militarization. Select the incorrect statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) The Bonn Challenge recently seen in news is related to, The United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) The Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) All of the above MUST READ India Must Play A Key Role In Claiming The Indo-Pacific Region Indian Express A Blinkered Understanding Of Migration The Hindu Serious Concerns Over Bt Brinjal The Hindu

Jun 18, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 17th June 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 17th June 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) G20 agrees to tackle ocean plastic waste Part of: Prelims and GS mains III environment and pollution In News Group of 20 Environment Ministers agreed to adopt a new implementation framework for actions to tackle the issue of marine plastic waste on a global scale. One of the top issues was ocean plastic waste as images of plastic debris-strewn beaches and dead animals with stomachs full of plastic have sparked outrage with many countries banning plastic bags outright. The new framework is aimed at facilitating further concrete action on marine waste, though on a voluntary basis, after the G20 Hamburg Summit in Germany adopted the “G20 action plan on marine litter” in 2017. Life-cycle approach Under the new framework, G20 members will promote a comprehensive life-cycle approach to prevent and reduce plastic litter discharge to the oceans through various measures and international cooperation. They will also share best practices, promote innovation and boost scientific monitoring and analytical methodologies. Assam temple bids adieu to rare turtle hatchlings Part of: Prelims and Mains GS III: Environment and Ecology In news The Ugratara Temple, one of the city’s landmarks, organised a special darshan of 34 hatchlings of the freshwater turtle, Black softshell turtle. Members of the temple committee and devotees turned up for what was essentially a ceremony to welcome and bid goodbye to these hatchlings. The welcome was because the eggs of black softshell were collected from temple ponds for incubation at the Assam State Zoo. And the goodbye was because these hatchlings will be reintroduced in the wild, never to return. Jorpukhuri translates into twin tanks, one of which abuts Ugratara Temple that is dedicated to Goddess Tara, a ‘fiery’ avatar of Kali. The black softshell turtle is extinct in the wild. The few that remain are in the ponds of some temples in Assam. A similar homecoming of 11 hatchlings of the equally endangered Indian roofed turtle (Pangshura tecta) and the Indian tent turtle (Pangshura tentoria) was organised at the Hayagriv Madhab Temple in Hajo, Assam. Do you know? Black Softshell Turtle: IUCN Extinct in wild Indian roofed turtle: IUCN Least Concern Indian tent turtle: IUCN Least Concern PM Modi invites chiefs of all parties to deliberate upon ‘one nation, one election’ Part of: Prelims and mains GS II: Polity and governance In news Ahead of the first session of the 17th Lok Sabha, Mr. Modi addressed leaders of the Opposition at an all-party meeting. An all-party meeting is a customary procedure before the beginning of every session of Parliament to ensure its smooth functioning. The meeting has been called to discuss “one nation, one election” issue, celebrations of 75 years of India’s Independence in 2022 and 150 years of Mahatma Gandhi’s birth anniversary this year. Bhutan on relations with India and China Part of Prelims and Mains GS II: International Relations Background India Bhutan relations rest on the mindset of the visionary leadership in two countries. Bhutan is also part of the BIMSTEC grouping that India says it is now promoting over the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). India Bhutan Relations Mangdechhu Hydropwer project in Bhutan, with the contribution of India, is in the final stages of completion now. Other bilateral projects that are being worked on: The South Asia Satellite programme, A stand-alone, multi-disciplinary hospital India is willing to support Another government-to-government mega-hydropower project on the Sankosh river Issues in India Bhutan Relations: Tariffs and Cross-border Trade in Electricity (CBTE) policy that first came out in India (in 2016) wasn’t friendly to Bhutan's interests. After Bhutan requested some changes, New Delhi agreed to change them. On BBIN: Bhutan need connectivity to enhance economic growth, but it is the smallest country in this partnership, and they have a very high commitment to environmental conservation. They are committed to balance their desire to preserve our environment, tradition and culture too. Geographically, South Asian countries are grouped together but they aren’t doing well economically together. On border issues (with China): Bhutan stick to their stand that the status quo must be maintained. No side should do anything without informing the other side at the border. Bhutan does not have diplomatic relations with any of the P-5 (UN Security Council Permanent members), which is our policy. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 3 Bio-technology Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation The mysterious case of GM Brinjal cultivation Introduction Brinjal production is extensively affected by insects: Brinjal fruit and shoot borer. Use of conventional chemical pesticides damaged the environment & affected human health. About BT Brinjal BT Brinjal was developed to combat Brinjal fruit and shoot borer & minimizing the use of chemical pesticides. Mahyco, the largest seed company in India, in which Monsanto Co. has a 26% stake, developed the first BT Brinjal. It was approved for commercialization in India in 2009, but a moratorium on its release was issued until further, unspecified, tests were conducted. BT Brinjal was approved for commercial release in Bangladesh in 2013. Application of biotechnology in Agriculture of India In India, application of biotechnology in agriculture is being dealt with by three different Ministries/Dept.: (1) Min. of Agriculture; (2) Min. of EF&CC & (3) Department of Biotechnology, Min. of S&T. Development, cultivation and transboundary movement of GM crops is regulated so as to ensure the safety of animal health, human health and biodiversity. In India, such regulations are provided in the Rules for Manufacture, Use, Import, Export and Storage of Hazardous Microorganisms (HM) Genetically Engineered Organisms or Cells, 1989 under the Environment Protection Act (1986). The rules cover: All activities involving research and development of products containing GMOs including transgenic crops. Appraisal of Genetically engineered products The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) functions in the MOEF&CC. As per Rules, 1989, it is responsible for appraisal of activities involving large scale use of hazardous microorganisms and recombinants in research and industrial production from the environmental angle. The committee is also responsible for appraisal of proposals relating to release of genetically engineered (GE) organisms and products into the environment including experimental field trials. Connecting the dots: Brinjal or BT Brinjal: why it is debated? Give your opinion. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 India and its neighborhood- relations Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Bishkek lessons Introduction The SCO brings together two of the world’s great powers — China and Russia — and four central Asian nations — Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan — with India and Pakistan. Launched by China and Russia nearly two decades ago, the SCO has also been billed by some as the “Alliance of the East” and as a continental counter to the US and more broadly, the maritime West. India with "Maritime West"(SCO) and "Maritime East"(US) India has moved steadily closer to the US in recent years and embraced the Indo-Pacific maritime construct. India’s navigation between the two competing worlds had become even more difficult as the US ratchets up tensions with both China and Russia. But India is very optimistic about Its emerging possibilities in the new dynamic with SCO. India at SCO India continued its stand on opposing the Belt and Road Initiative and turning down China’s advice to begin talks with Pakistan. With Russia, India sought to expand the strategic partnership to new areas of defence and energy. India joined with China and Russia in opposing the new threats to global trade from new American unilateralism under Trump. India's bilateral engagement with the SCO summit host Kyrgyzstan underlined the new political commitment to realise the full potential of India’s relations with the Central Asian republics. Bishkek summit also revealed India’s deepening challenges with Afghanistan and Pakistan, while India continues to emphasise an “Afghan-owned and Afghan-led” peace process. On a positive note, the forum strongly endorsed India’s concerns on cross-border terrorism. Conclusion Shanghai Cooperation Organisation is constructing a new region, now widely described as Eurasia. In recent years, India tilted more towards US. Therefore the need to manoeuvre between Moscow, Beijing and Washington is now a permanent condition for Indian diplomacy. Connecting the dots: The need to manoeuvre between Moscow, Beijing and Washington is now a permanent condition for Indian diplomacy. 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) The Ugratara Temple of Assam was recently in news because of, Its unique tradition of turtle conservation Due to its practice Devdasi tradition It is exclusively for men. Women of particular age are barred to enter. None of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements Mangdechhu Hydropwer project in Bhutan is being constructed with the help of China. Bhutan agreed to be part of BBIN motor vehicle agreement. Select the incorrect statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) As per IUCN, which of the following are extinct in wild. Indian tent turtle Black Softshell Turtle Indian roofed turtle All of the above MUST READ Self-serving nations The Hindu Explained: Why Healthy Animals Mean Healthy Humans, And How To Meet That Goal Indian Express If the rains fail Indian Express

Jun 18, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 7

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 7 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)’ The Convention addresses specifically the arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas. It stems from a direct recommendation of the Rio Conference's Agenda 21. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) ‘Operation Sunrise’ was carried out on which of the following borders? Sudan and South Sudan Indo-Myanmar Israel-Palestine North & South Korea Q.3) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘National Anti-Profiteering Authority (NAA)’ It was constituted to ensure that the benefit of input tax credit is passed on to the recipient by way of commensurate reduction in prices. It has been constituted under Section 101 of the Integrated Goods and Services Tax Act, 2017. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) ‘Protocol on Establishment of Joint Ocean Observation Station’ is seen in news in the context of Maldives Seychelles Socotra Comoros Q.5) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Neptunian Desert’ It is the region close to stars where no Neptune-sized exoplanets are found This area receives strong irradiation from the star 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

Jun 17, 2019 PIB

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 9th June to 15th June – 2019

Press Information Bureau (PIB) IAS UPSC – 9th June to 15th June – 2019 ARCHIVES GS-2 Cabinet approves Signing of Memorandum of Understanding between India and Bolivia in the field of Railways regarding Bioceanic Railway Integration Corridor Project: The MoU will facilitate exchange of information, expert meetings, seminars, technical visits and implementation of jointly agreed cooperation projects Memorandum of Understanding between India and Finland in the area of cyber security: The MoU intends to promote closer cooperation for exchange of knowledge and experience in detection, resolution and prevention of security related incidents between India and Finland. Memorandum of Understanding between India and Russia in the field of Railways: The MoU will facilitate exchange of information, expert meetings, seminars, technical visits and implementation of jointly agreed cooperation projects. Memorandum of Understanding between India and Thailand in the field of Astronomy: The MoU will lead to new scientific results, human resource development through increased scientific interaction and training, joint use of scientific infrastructure etc. Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Bill, 2019: The Bill to replace the Special Economic Zones (Amendment) Ordinance, 2019 (12 of 2019). After the amendment of sub-section (v) of section 2 of the Special Economic Zones Act, 2005, a trust or any entity notified by the Central Government will be eligible to be considered for grant of permission to set up a unit in Special Economic Zones. Must Read: Link 1 Signing of Memorandum of Understanding between India and Kyrgyzstan in the field of Legal Metrology: Exchange of information and documents relating to legal metrology; Develop training programme for officials and non-officials dealing with the subject of legal metrology; Exchange of officials, experts and professionals for mutual cooperation in the area of legal metrology; Participation in Seminars, Workshops, Meetings, Attachment Learning Programmes etc. in area of mutual interest, as may be appropriate; Establishment of requirements for pre-packaged goods and carrying out the state metrological supervision of pre-packaged goods; Review of the status of the rules / regulations on pre-packaged goods. Sharing of experience in carrying out of metrological supervision in mutual settlements between producers and consumers Signing and ratification of bilateral investment treaty between India and Kyrgyzstan: The Bilateral Treaty is likely to increase investment flow between India and Kyrgyzstan and protection to investors of both countries making investments in both countries. Ratification of the Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty Related Measures to Prevent Base Erosion and Profit Shifting: The Convention will modify India's treaties in order to curb revenue loss through treaty abuse and base erosion and profit shifting strategies by ensuring that profits are taxed where substantive economic activities generating the profits are carried out and where value is created. MoU between India and Kyrgyzstan on Cooperation in the field of Health: Strengthening of healthcare systems; Non-communicable diseases, communicable diseases and anti-microbialresistance; Development of hospital management systems and health informationsystems Hospital Management; Maternal and child health; Medical Researches; Exchange of experience in transplantation of kidney and liver, cardiacsurgery, oncology, orthopedics, traumatology, etc.; Improving capacity of human resources in the field of health; Exchange of information and experience in the field of regulation ofpharmaceuticals & medical devices circulation; Exchange of experience and information on good practice of clinical trials ofmedicines and medical products; Integrated surveillance of diseases; Arranging visits for the experience exchange among physicians, nurses andIT-specialists; Exchange of experience on e-health; Providing opportunities   for health specialists to receive training and professional development at the "India-Kyrgyz Center for InformationTechnologies" with further internships in the Republic of India; Health Tourism Indian Medical Council (Amendment) Bill, 2019: The move will ensure transparency, accountability and quality in the governance of medical education in the country. The New Bill provides for supersession of MCI for a period of two years w.e.f. 26.09.2018. During this period, the Board of Governors shall exercise the powers and functions of MCI as assigned under the IMC Act, 1956. The number of members in the Board of Governors will be increased from existing 7 to 12. The Central Educational Institutions (Reservation in Teachers' Cadre) Bill, 2019: The Cabinet decision will address the long standing demands of persons belonging to SCs/STs/SEBCs and ensure their rights envisaged under the Constitution. It will also ensure providing of 10% reservation to EWS. This decision will: Allow filling up of more than 7000 existing vacancies by direct recruitment in Teachers' Cadre with 200 point roster. Ensure compliance of the Constitutional Provisions of Articles 14, 16 and 21. Ensure full representation of Scheduled Castes/ Scheduled Tribes Socially and Educationally Backward Classes and Economically Weaker Sections in direct recruitment in teachers' cadres. Expected to improve the teaching standards in the higher educational institutions by attracting all eligible talented candidates belonging to SCs/STs/SEBCs/EWS Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2019: The Bill would ensure gender equality and gender justice to Muslim women. The Bill would also help in protecting the rights of married Muslim women and prevent divorce by practice of ‘talaq-e-biddat’ by their husbands.  The Bill will be introduced in the forthcoming session of the Parliament. Implications: The Bill proposes to declare the practice of triple talaq as void and illegal. It also makes an offence punishable with imprisonment up to three years and fine. It also provides for payment of subsistence allowance to married Muslim women and dependent children. The Bill also proposes to make the offence cognizable, if information relating to the commission of an offence is given to an officer in charge of a police station by the married Muslim woman upon whom talaq is pronounced or by any person related to her by blood or marriage.  The offence is made compoundable with the permission of the Magistrate at the instance of the married Muslim woman upon whom talaq is pronounced.  The Bill further provides for hearing the married Muslim woman upon whom talaq is pronounced, before the accused is released on bail by the Magistrate. Must Read: Link 1 Hasty step:  Triple Talaq ordinance Religion versus Ethics Triple Talaq is criminal offence Extension of President's Rule in J&K for six months with effect from 3rd July, 2019: Under article 356(4) of the Constitution of India. New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Bill, 2019: Making India the hub of International Arbitration has been one of the pioneering initiatives of the Government and setting up of an independent an autonomous regime for institutionalized domestic and international arbitration are a step in this direction. This will result in quality experts being available in India and also an advantage in terms of cost incurred. It will facilitate India becoming a hub for institutional arbitration. The Bill provides for setting up of an independent an autonomous body for institutional arbitration and to acquire and transfer the undertakings of International Centre For Alternative Dispute Resolution (ICADR) to New Delhi International Arbitration Centre (NDIAC)w.e.f a specified date 2nd march, 2019. The Bill replaces the New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Ordinance, 2019, promulgated by President on 02.03.2019 for the creation of an independent and autonomous regime for institutionalized domestic and international arbitration and establishing India as an International Hub of Arbitration. The Bill provides for the repeal of the New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Ordinance, 2019 and saves all the actions done or taken under the Ordinance which will be deemed to have been done or taken under the provisions of this Bill. Prelims oriented News G20 Ministerial Meeting on Energy Transitions and Global Environment for Sustainable Growth in Japan India is implementing one of the largest renewable energy expansion and energy efficiency programmes and is moving towards achieving the target to fulfill the country's commitments made in Paris Agreement. India will achieve 40 per cent renewable in the energy mix by 2030. Various energy efficiency programmes such as through PAT, UJALA, Standard and Labelling and ECBC and reiterated India's commitment for a greener and healthier planet. India is achieving one of the largest expansions of renewable energy in the world and has become a net exporter of power in the past five years. The talk there was also about India's achievements in transmission systems like -- One nation one Grid and Green Energy Corridors. Must Read: In harmony with Mother Nature G20 summit The participants are leaders from 19 countries and the Europian Union (EU). The 19 countries are Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico, Republic of Korea, Republic of South Africa, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, United Kingdom, United States of America. The G20 Summit is formally known as the “Summit on Financial Markets and the World Economy”. As the “premier forum for international economic cooperation” (agreed by leaders at the Pittsburgh Summit in September 2009), representing more than 80% of the global GDP, the G20 has made continuous efforts toward achieving robust global economic growth. As globalization progresses and various issues become more intricately intertwined, the recent G20 summits have focused not only on macroeconomy and trade, but also on a wide range of global issues which have an immense impact on the global economy, such as development, climate change and energy, health, counter-terrorism, as well as migration and refugees. The G20 has sought to realize an inclusive and sustainable world through its contributions towards resolving these global issues. 20th Anniversary of ‘The Victory at Kargil’ The year 2019, marks the 20th anniversary of victory in ‘Operation VIJAY’ popularly known as the ‘Kargil War’. The Kargil War is a saga of strong political, military and diplomatic actions. The Kargil War will always be remembered for its strategic and tactical surprises, the self-imposed national strategy of restraint in keeping the war limited to Kargil - Siachen Sectors and swiftly executed tri-services military strategy and plans. The Kargil War will also be remembered for the determination and daring junior leadership and the raw courage of our jawans at tactical level. This year, 20th anniversary of victory in ‘Operation VIJAY’ is being celebrated with the theme ‘Remember, Rejoice and Renew’. We ‘remember’ our martyrs, by revisiting the sacrifices and instilling pride and respect among us, we ‘rejoice’ by celebrating the victory in Kargil and we ‘renew’ our resolve to safeguard the honour of the Tricolour. Nipah Virus disease Nipah Virus is an emerging infectious disease that broke out in Malaysia and Singapore in 1998 and 1999. It first appeared in domestic pigs and has been found among several species of domestic animals including dogs, cats, goats, horses and sheep. The infection is also known to affect human beings. The organism which causes Nipah Virus encephalitis is an RNA or Ribonucleic acid virus. Nipah virus infection gets its name from the village in Malaysia where the person from whom the virus was first isolated succumbed to the disease. How does Nipah spread or get transmitted? The disease spreads through fruit bats or ‘flying foxes,’ of the genus Pteropus, who are natural reservoir hosts of the Nipah and Hendra viruses. The virus is present in bat urine and potentially, bat faeces, saliva, and birthing fluids. Nipah Virus, which is a zoonotic disease, was known to affect humans in Malaysia and Singapore after coming in direct contact with the excretions or secretions of infected pigs. Symptoms of the Nipah infection: The human infection presents as an encephalitic syndrome marked by fever, headache, drowsiness, disorientation, mental confusion, coma, and potentially death. There is no specific treatment for Nipah Virus. The primary treatment for human cases is intensive supportive care. Girish Karnad Playwright, translator, film director and actor, screenplay writer, director of FTII in Pune, director of the Nehru Centre in London and chairman of the Sangeet Natak Akademi He was a recipient of the 1998 Jnanpith Award, the highest literary honour conferred in India.

Jun 17, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 6

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 6 Archives Q.1) Which of the following countries are party to the ‘Shanghai Pact’? India Pakistan Russia Nepal Select the correct code: 1 and 3 1, 2 and 3 2 and 4 2 and 3 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Rhizoctonia solani’ It is a plant pathogenic bacterium endemic to India. It causes the Sheath Blight disease in rice. 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 ‘Glanders Disease’ While people can get the disease, glanders is primarily a disease affecting horses Glanders is an infectious disease that is caused by a virus Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) ‘Global Wage Report’ is published by World Economic Forum World Bank International Labour Organisation International Monetary Fund Q.5) Which of the following statements is/are correct? ‘Strait of Hormuz’ connects Red Sea and the Gulf of Aqaba Qatar and Yemen opens up into the Persian Gulf 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

Jun 17, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 15th June 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Modi, Imran exchange pleasantries at Bishkek Part of: Prelims and mains GS II: International relations In news Fight against Terrorism: Addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation Summit, PM Modi highlighted the spirit and ideals of the SCO to strengthen cooperation in the fight against terrorism. To combat the menace of terrorism, countries will have to come out of their narrow purview to unite against it, he said. Prime Minister called on the SCO member states to cooperate under the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS) against terrorism. The Bishkek Declaration urged the international community to encourage global cooperation to fight terrorism, without politicisation and double standards; with respect for the sovereignty and independence of all countries. It sought the support of the member countries to work towards a consensus on adopting the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism. The summit signed a document titled ‘Roadmap for Further Action of the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group. The other agreements on sports, mass media, coordination of humanitarian affairs, tourism, healthcare were signed. Do you know? Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure (RATS): The Regional Antiterrorism Structure (RATS) was established in the year 2004 at the Tashkent Summit. SCO-RATS is a permanent body established to bring about coordination and interaction between member states in ensuring security in the region. The Regional Antiterrorism Structure works on information sharing and joint counter terrorism measures between the member states. Post the Astana summit declaration of 2005, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation has emerged as a regional security organization. India to impose retaliatory tariffs on 29 American goods Part of Prelims and mains GS II international relations and GS III Economics In news The US has withdrawn the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) benefits to India, effective 5th June. India has accepted the decision of the US to withdraw GSP benefits gracefully, and would work towards making the exports competitive. It was also clarified that the duty hikes were against the tariff hikes on steel and aluminium products by the U.S. and not because it withdrew duty-free benefits to Indian exporters. America had in March last year imposed 25 per cent tariff on steel and a 10 per cent import duty on aluminium products. As India is one of the major exporters of these items to the US, the US decision has revenue implication of about $240 million on Indian steel and aluminium products. India had repeatedly postponed the imposition of retaliatory tariffs since they were first announced in June 2018. India has also dragged the US to the World Trade Organisation’s (WTO) dispute settlement mechanism over the imposition of import duties on steel and aluminium. India’s exports to the US in 2017-18 stood at $47.9 billion, while imports were at $26.7 billion. The trade balance is in favour of India. PM hits out at trade protectionism; Shanghai Cooperation Organisation   Part of Prelims: International relations Mains: GS Paper II – International relations In news Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Friday hit out at unilateralism and trade protectionism, and said there is a need for a rules-based, anti-discriminatory and all inclusive WTO-centred multilateral trading system. Economic cooperation is the basis of our people’s future... We need a rule-based, transparent, anti-discriminatory, open and all-inclusive WTO-centred multilateral trading system focused so that the interests of every country, specially the developing ones, can be taken care of. India’s stand India is committed to ensuring a favourable environment for the economic cooperation between the SCO member-countries. SCO members stand The SCO member-states said the situation in global politics and economy remains turbulent and tense, and the process of economic globalisation is being hindered by the growing unilateral protectionist policies and other challenges in international trade` The Bishkek Declaration of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation stressed the importance of deepening cooperation to build a transparent and stable environment for trade. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Government policies and issues arising out of their design and implementation. General studies 3 Conservation, environmental degradation, environmental impact assessment Reversing the scale of priorities: Balancing Sustainable development Introduction The Madras High Court in P.V. Krishnamoorthy v. The Government of India Case quashed the notifications that were issued by NHAI for acquiring land for a proposed eight-lane expressway connecting Chennai to Salem. The Case now has gone to the Supreme Court whereby NHAI had challenged that verdict of the Madras High Court. However, for now the SC has refused the request of NHAI for a stay on the Madras High Court judgment. Sustainable development In 1987, a United Nations-backed committee led by the former Norwegian Prime Minister Gro Brundtland proposed a long-term strategy which called for sustainable development, among other things. This programme titled “Our Common Future”, defined the principle of sustainable development as an endeavour to ensure that any development that “meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own needs.” Amartya Sen wrote: While the prominence accorded to sustainable development may be laudable, we must equally ask whether “the conception of human beings implicit in it is sufficiently capacious”. Madras High Court's judgment and the concerns raised The Madras High Court’s judgment in P. Krishnamoorthy case is well reasoned, whereby the HC has raised several questions about procedure with regards to environmental impact assessment (EIA) being carried out for developmental projects. 1st Concern: There was a failure to obtain an environmental clearance for the project before acquiring land. Whereby, according to the government, power to acquire land under the National Highways Act, 1956, was unconditional. There was no law mandating an EIA before efforts are made to acquire private land. The Environment (Protection) Rules, 1986, which required an EIA for the construction of a new highway (green field), did not decree such an assessment for the purposes of securing the land. 2nd Concern: Sustainable development meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of the future generations to meet their own needs. Moreover, the SC in Vellore Citizens’ Welfare Forum Case (1996) has asserted that Sustainable Development is intrinsic to India’s constitutional structure. However, it has been difficult to implement in practice the concept of sustainable development. Whereby what has happened is that a balance has been tried to be maintained between environment and the development project and in most cases the balance has been tilted towards development projects. So what happens is that if a development project that depletes groundwater or increases pollution but creates jobs, the project is undertaken whereby it is considered that current and even future generations would prefer a better economy rather than cleaner air or easier access to drinking water. Conclusion: The Judgment tilts the balance in Sustainable development towards the environment. It has raised concerns over environmental impact of the project with cutting down of trees, poaching of animals, fragmenting forest land, apart from other environmental concerns. As Amartya Sen rightly wrote, “there is need for anti-emission policies that could help future generations to have the freedom to enjoy the fresh air that earlier generations enjoyed.” Connecting the dots: The protection of environment stands in a higher pedestal when placed on scale with that of the economic interest. Comment. NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 3 Indian Economy and issues relating mobilization of resources Full disclosure: On SEBI norm for financial disclosure Introduction In the backdrop of IL&FS crisis, SEBI issued reguating norms for credit rating agencies in November 2018. Again now in June 2019 further disclosure norms issued by SEBI. Do you know? A credit rating agency is an entity which assesses the ability and willingness of the issuer company for timely payment of interest and principal on a debt instrument. The rating is assigned to a security or an instrument. The Credit rating agencies are regulated by SEBI. Based on the norms issued by the SEBI in June, 2019, the credit rating agencies will have to: The CRAs would now be required to provide their rationale for the rating. The Disclosure of probability of default by the companies has been made mandatory for all the CRAs. The CRAs have also been asked to disclose all the sensitive factors which could possibly trigger changes in credit ratings. In order to improve the transparency in the ratings, the CRAs have been asked to disclose all the liquidity related parameters such as access to credit, liquidity coverage ratio, adequacy of cash flows for servicing maturing debt obligation, etc. The adequacy of the liquidity is to be denoted in terms of standard terminologies such as Superior, Adequate, Stretched & Poor. It would address the problem of ambiguity. The CRAs must publish information on their performance in the rating of debt instruments compares with a benchmark created by SEBI. Remaining concerns to be addressed: The “issuer-pays” model where the entity that issues the instrument also pays the ratings agency for its services often leads to a situation of conflict of interest. The credit rating market in India has high barriers to entry leading to lack of competition and hence adversely affects the interests of the investors. The Credit rating agencies have to come up with lucrative business models which put the interests of the investors above the interests of borrowers. Connecting the dots: What are credit rating agencies? Regulating credit rating agencies will have positive effect on debt and securities market. 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) Bishkek Declaration recently seen in news is related to BRICS SAARC SCO None of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements regarding RATS The Regional Antiterrorism Structure (RATS) was established in the year 2004 at the Astana Summit. SCO-RATS is a permanent body established to bring about coordination and interaction between member states in ensuring security in the region. Select the incorrect statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Consider the following statements Only US provides duty free imports under Generalized System of Preferences (GSP). In Generalized System of Preferences (GSP), both the signing countries allow duty free imports to each other. Select the correct statements Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ Strait Of Hormuz, The World’s Most Important Oil Artery INDIAN EXPRESS It Is Forgotten That The Toughest Land Battle Of The Second World War Was Fought On Indian Soil INDIAN EXPRESS Shaky Building Blocks The Hindu

Jun 17, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th June 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 14th June 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Modi, Xi meet in Bishkek, agree to speed up boundary talks Part of Mains GS II: International Relations In news India and China agreed to expedite the dialogue on the India-China boundary issue for securing a “fair” solution. The two leaders met in Bishkek, the capital of Kyrgyzstan, where they will participate in the summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). The two leaders discussed the status of the bilateral relationship since the Wuhan summit of April 2018, which came in the backdrop of tension following the 73-day Doklam standoff. China highlighted the need for regional cooperation and connectivity and singled out the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar (BCIM) economic corridor as an example for expanding the India-China ties, which had entered a “new phase” after the Wuhan informal summit. The two sides should adhere to the basic judgment that China and India are the opportunities for development and do not pose a threat to each other. Russia invited India to take part in the Vladivostok Forum in September Do you Know? Vladivostok Forum Eastern Economic Forum is an international forum held each year in Vladivostok, Russia, for the purpose of encouraging foreign investment in the Russian Far East. For Wuhan Summit, read: IASbaba daily current affairs 30 April 2018 India will have its own space station, says ISRO chief Sivan Part of Prelims and mains GS III: Science and Technology In News India plans to have its own space station, and the modalities for it will be worked out after the first manned mission, Gaganyaan, scheduled for August 2022. The ISRO would also join the international space community for a manned mission to the moon and beyond. A Gaganyaan National Advisory Council has been created with members from different institutions and industries. Selection of two to three crew members would be done in six months. They would then undergo training for 1-1.5 years after that A GSLV Mk-III launch vehicle will be used to launch the Gaganyaan. Prior to that, two unmanned missions would be undertaken, one in December next year and the second, six months after that. The Gagayaan mission aims to send a two or three member crew to space for a period of seven days. The spacecraft would be placed in a low earth orbit of 300-400 km. Do you know? The only countries that have had space stations so far are the US, Russia, China and a consortium of nations that own the International Space Station (ISS). Low Earth Orbit: Low earth orbits (LEO) are satellite systems used in telecommunication, which orbit between 400 and 1,000 miles above the earth's surface. They are used mainly for data communication such as email, video conferencing and paging. They move at extremely high speeds and are not fixed in space in relation to the earth. Microgravity: Microgravity is when the pull of gravity is not very strong. In microgravity, it is easy to move heavy objects. The studies help show what happens to people and other things in space. Microgravity does things to the human body. For example, muscles and bones can get weaker. Astronauts on the space station spend months in microgravity. Govt makes changes to Employees State Insurance Scheme Part of Prelims: Indian Economy In news The Government has recently decided to reduce the contribution of the employees and employers under the Employees State Insurance Scheme. The reduced rates will come into effect on July 1, 2019. Do you know? Details about Employees State Insurance Scheme What is it? Employees’ State Insurance Scheme of India is a multi-dimensional Social Security Scheme tailored to provide Socio-economic protection to the 'employees' in the organized sector against the events of sickness, maternity, disablement and death due to employment injury and to provide medical care to the insured employees and their families. Who administers the Scheme? The ESI Scheme is administered by a statutory corporate body called the Employees' State Insurance Corporation (ESIC). How is the Scheme financed? The ESI scheme is a self-financing scheme. The ESI funds are primarily built out of contribution from employers and employees payable monthly at a fixed percentage of wages paid. Coverage of the Scheme It extends to all the factories employing 10 or more employees. Further, it covers all the employees with wages up to Rs 21,000. TRAI asked to revisit spectrum auction recommendations Part of Prelims and mains GS II: Governance, GS III: Economics In news The Digital Communications Commission (DCC) — the highest decision-making body at the Department of Telecom, on Thursday asked the TRAI to reconsider its entire recommendation on the forthcoming spectrum auctions that includes reserve price and methodology, keeping in view the larger objective of Digital India. DCC seeks 5G for rural health and education. Do you know? About Digital Communications Commission The ‘National Digital Communications Policy-2018’ re-designated the ‘Telecom Commission’ as the ‘Digital Communications Commission’ to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of the National Digital Communications Policy-2018. The Secretary to the Government of India in the Department of Telecommunications is the ex-officio Chairman of the Digital Communications Commission. The Digital Communications Commission is responsible for: Formulating the policy of Department of Telecommunications for approval of the Government; Preparing the budget for the Department of Telecommunications for each financial year and getting it approved by the Government; Implementation of Government's policy in all matters concerning telecommunication. Asiatic Golden cat wears new colours Part of Prelims: Environment and Biodiversity In News Scientists have discovered six different 'colour morphs' of the Asiatic golden cat in Arunachal Pradesh. Do you know? Asiatic Golden cat is a medium-sized wild cat native to north-eastern Indian subcontinent and is listed as 'Near Threatened' on the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Colour morphs are basically occurrence of two or more discrete colour forms of the animal within a population, due to a genetic mutation. For example- Black panther is a color morph of the common leopard. National TOPIC: General studies 2 Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; Mechanisms, laws, institutions and Bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. Justice that heals: Why cases under POCSO law should deploy restorative justice Introduction A district court in Madhya Pradesh sentenced a person to death under the POCSO (Prevention of Children from Sexual Offences) Act was doing the rounds, research conducted by the Counsel to Secure Justice (CSJ) and National Law University Delhi (NLUD) offered significant insights. Meaning of Justice The meanings of “justice” tend to vary for the victim, offender, family, and community. The survivors or their families did not necessarily want the death penalty — or even strict punishment — for the accused. Rather, in many cases, they wanted the offenders to acknowledge their wrongdoing or tender an apology for their act. Restorative Justice Restorative justice is emerging as a powerful tool in the criminal justice process, especially with regard to conciliation and mediation. The concept involves bringing the victim and offender together to remedy the harm — it makes the offender accept his/her offence. Restorative justice involves the victim, offender and the community in its quest for solutions, which are about repairing, reconciliation, and reassurance. Punitive Justice Punitive options, including the death penalty, are not the product of the concerns of victims or their families — they are notions of the state and therefore, driven by political considerations. Punishment seldom matches with the idea of justice held by the victims, their families or the community. Victimisation leads to trauma, shame, insecurity, and several other social and emotional consequences. The study revealed that families of victims often felt that the offenders usually do not experience any remorse or guilt even after undergoing the severest of punishments. The stakeholders in these communities felt that, apart from harsh punishment, measures like community service, education — or even treatment for the offender — and restorative programmes ought to be initiated. Current justice system The current justice system often ignores the need to restore relationships that were broken, because family members blamed victims and failed to support them. The aim of the criminal justice process ought to be the creation of peace and, more importantly, enabling the community to deal with the effects of crime — as well as preventing it. Communities often perceive the system as corrupt, dismissive of the poor and insensitive towards victims and their families. The study presents a powerful case for applying restorative justice, especially because re-victimisation and secondary victimisation, including discrediting crime victims during cross-examination, results in more harm than good — they discourage victims from reporting abuse. Victims believe that the system shares the society’s victim-blaming culture. POCSO and Restorative justice In 90 per cent cases of child sexual abuse, the offender is not only known to the victim but is also a close relative. Many organisations worldwide have “victim offender reconciliation programmes” or “sentencing circles”. These involve trained facilitators who make the parties discuss possible solutions by driving the offenders to own up to their offence. A restorative justice approach would require the POCSO Act to concentrate on the victims’ needs — material, financial, emotional and social. POCSO ought to recreate or restore a community that supports the rehabilitation of victims and offenders — and in doing so, prevent crime. Adoption of such strategies will also obviate the costs and delays associated with the current legal justice system. Conclusion Restorative justice programmes enable the victim, the offender and affected members of the community to be directly involved in addressing the situation that arises after a crime. They become central to the criminal justice process, with government officers and legal professionals serving as facilitators of a system that aims at offender accountability and reparation. This restorative process — that often involves face-to-face interactions between all parties — is a powerful way of addressing not only the material loss as a result of the crime, but the social and emotional trauma caused by it. Connecting the dots: Restorative Justice versus Punitive justice: Which one side would you take? Justify your stand. (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) Bishkek was recently in news. It is A tribe residing in central Asia Capital city of Kyrgyzstan Desert in Russia None of the above Q.2) Consider the following countries : India Pakistan Afghanistan Tajikistan Which of the above are not members of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)?   1, 2 and 4 1 and 2 3 and 4 3 only MUST READ The Enigma Of English INDIAN EXPRESS The Jobs Thrust INDIAN EXPRESS A home in space INDIAN EXPRESS

Jun 16, 2019 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Avoiding Distractions – Inspirational Educative Articles

Avoiding Distractions: If there is any one thing that a young mind has to be wary of in this fast paced, chaotic day and age, it is getting distracted. There is probably nothing more easily achievable than getting distracted. With so much going on around us, it is very easy to forget that distraction is the single biggest obstacle for our success. The biggest problem with distraction is that when you are actually distracted you are totally unaware of it. Only when you get back to an important task that you wanted to finish which you could not because of that distraction, will you actually reflect on the fact that you have been distracted. This is a much bigger problem than we think. Internet, social media, cell phones, television, sports, movies are all black holes of time; they suck time right out of our lives. Not to say that they all don’t have some entertainment and educational value which is good once in a while, but the problem is, once in a while is a very subjective phenomenon. We can so easily get hooked on to these things and forget our important tasks. We have gotten so used to the idea of being distracted that we have totally forgotten how much easier it is to focus and put our minds to achieve something, without any of these distractions. Just go back 30 or even just 10 years ago – how much easier it was to simply relax and concentrate on things that were important to us. Today, without a contest, the biggest sucker of our time is entertainment. Entertainment is somebody else’s business not ours – we have to be careful in not letting entertainment take over our lives completely. To be aware of how much of your time is being consumed by useless entertainment is important. None of this is necessary for someone who has chosen a way of life where they can accommodate enough entertainment in their lives. But if you are competing against someone else, then while you are being entertained, somebody is moving ahead with their plans. In any competitive domain, the one who can stay away from these constant distractions can achieve greatly. Just look around you – pay attention to all your daily distractions. If you want, even make a note of them. And then go about systematically reducing or eliminating those distractions. Just make some space and time for your life. The single biggest change you can make to find more time for yourself is getting rid of your distractions. The moment you can identify your distractions and slowly get rid of them, you will find more than necessary time for your most important things. Life is still your experience – when you have decided to move in a certain direction, it is not beneficial to have constant distractions that keep pushing you in different directions. Get rid of those distractions so that you can move in the direction of your choice. “This article is a part of the creative endeavor of Inner-Revolution and IASBABA.”

Jun 15, 2019 AIR

All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - Awareness and Cure of Thalassemia

Awareness and Cure of Thalassemia ARCHIVES Search 14th May, 2019 Public Speak here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx TOPIC: General studies 2 Health World Thalassemia Day 2019: 8th May Thalassemia (or Mediterranean Anaemia) is the most common monogenesis disease affecting people across the world. This debilitating disorder, characterised by abnormal production of haemoglobin in the body, is a silent killer. India is the thalassaemia capital of the world with 40 million carriers and over 1,50,000 thalassaemia majors under blood transfusion every month. There are almost 42 million carriers of beta-thalassemia trait. While an average prevalence rate of 3-4% has been established across the country, a higher frequency has been observed in certain communities, such as Sindhis, Punjabis, Gujaratis, Bengalis, Mahars, Kolis, Saraswats, Lohanas and Gaurs. An estimated 10,000 -15,000 babies with Thalassemia Major are born every year. The tragedy is that most of these children succumb to cardiac complications at an early age. The heartbreak suffered by their families is another tale of anguish. Added to this, is the significant economic burden on the families as conventional treatment such as life-long blood cell transfusion, iron chelation therapy or splenectomy (surgical operation to remove the spleen) are hugely expensive. What is Thalassemia? Thalassemia is an inherited (i.e., passed from parents to children through genes) blood disorder caused when the body doesn’t make enough of a protein called haemoglobin, an important part of red blood cells. When there isn’t enough hemoglobin, the body’s red blood cells don’t function properly and they last shorter periods of time, so there are fewer healthy red blood cells traveling in the bloodstream. Red blood cells carry oxygen to all the cells of the body. Oxygen is a sort of food that cells use to function. When there are not enough healthy red blood cells, there is also not enough oxygen delivered to all the other cells of the body, which may cause a person to feel tired, weak or short of breath. This is a condition called anaemia. People with thalassemia may have mild or severe anaemia. Severe anaemia can damage organs and lead to death. Thalassemias are inherited conditions — they're carried in the genes and passed on from parents to children. People who are carriers of a thalassemia gene show no thalassemia symptoms and might not know they're carriers. If both parents are carriers, they can pass the disease to their kids. Thalassemia’s are not contagious. Types of Thalassemia Thalassemia minor: In Thalassemia minor, the hemoglobin genes are inherited during conception, one from the mother and one from the father. People with a Thalassemia trait in one gene are known as carriers or are said to have thalassemia minor. Thalassemia minor is not a disease and they have only mild anemia. Thalassemia Intermedia: These are patients who have mild to severe symptoms. Thalassemia Major: This is the most severe form of Thalassemia. This occurs when a child inherits two mutated genes, one from each parent. Patients Children with thalassemia major develop the symptoms of severe anemia within the first year of life. They require regular transfusions in order to survive or a bone marrow transplant and are at a grave risk of iron overload and other complications. Symptoms The signs and symptoms of beta thalassemia vary depending on the type that a child has. Most children with beta thalassemia trait have no symptoms. Those with beta thalassemia major and intermedia may not show any symptoms at birth, but usually develop them in the first 2 years of life. Some of the more common symptoms of beta thalassemia include: Fatigue, weakness, or shortness of breath A pale appearance or a yellow color to the skin (jaundice) Irritability Deformities of the facial bones Slow growth A swollen abdomen Dark urine Treatment BMT is the only treatment that offers a potential cure for thalassemia at this time. In BMT, high-dose chemotherapy eliminates thalassemia-producing cells in the marrow and replaces them with healthy donor cells from bone marrow or umbilical cord blood. BMT has a better outcome in younger patients with thalassemia. Other factors affecting the success include adequacy of chelation, the presence or absence of liver fibrosis and the presence or absence of liver enlargement. Advances in infrastructure and techniques for BMT have made the procedure safer and more effective. Problems of rejection are improving with the use of intensive immunosuppressive therapy. After a successful bone marrow transplant, a patient with thalassemia will not require further blood transfusions. But he may require treatment for the pre-existing iron overload from his previous transfusions. Challenges & Concerns Lack of safe blood transfusion facilities: The biggest challenge that thalassemia patients face today is the lack of safe blood transfusion facilities. They run the risk of life threatening viral infections. We must make it mandatory to test for haemoglobin HPLC in the population to identify persons at risk of transmitting the abnormal gene. Urgent need for genetic screening: The available treatments for Thalassemia Major place a huge economic burden on patients.  The cost of supportive care and management of a child with thalassemia major is estimated at Rs 1,00,000- 2,50,000 per year depending on the age and presence of complications. Cost of a bone marrow transplant (BMT) is estimated to be Rs 14-Rs 15 lakh, according to the union ministry statistics. Also, getting a match for BMT is very difficult. Therefore, the best cure for thalassemia is prevention through genetic screening. Absence of General Population Screening: What we generally do in India is secondary prevention where the parents go for carrier screening only after one child is born with Thalassemia. But, ideally, there should be general population screening so that such births can be prevented. The carrier screening test is a simple and inexpensive test called the Haemoglobin Electrophoresis which can be done at most biochemistry labs. The awareness about this disorder is high in cities, but low in rural areas. Lack of Awareness around Pre-marital genetic screening: There are three stages at which a couple can undergo screening - pre-marriage, post-marriage but pre-conception, and first trimester of pregnancy. Unfortunately, in India, there is a lot of stigma attached to pre-marital genetic screening. It has been made mandatory in many Mediterranean countries. The availability and safety of blood are important for thalassemia major patients. Gynaecologists should make couples undergo the test for Thalassemia when they prescribe other tests, so that no one is born with Thalassemia Major. The more aware the public is about thalassemia, the more likely they are to take this test. The Way Ahead: Thalassemia free India is a very real possibility. To achieve it, focused, backward planning and awareness generation is the need of the hour. Patients from impoverished families do not have sufficient information regarding free treatment centres. They do not even know where to go to collect free medicines. The government should take up thalassaemia as a serious public health concern and arrange patient education programs. We need quality drugs to be made available freely by the government at least to poor patients. The time is ripe for medical researchers, doctors, research institutes and early-stage clinical companies to enter the arena and work on a feasible gene therapy solution for thalassaemia. If successful, it can pave the way for therapeutics for other rare, genetic disorders in India. The model of Pre-marital genetic screening must be replicated and there is a need to increase the number of centers in India which are able to perform premarital diagnosis, and provide this facility at a subsidised cost or free for the poor, and introduce quality control programs. An important challenge is to develop pre-implantation genetic diagnosis as many couples are distressed by having affected children in consecutive pregnancies. Investment in grass root level techniques for premarital screening would be worthwhile, as this would help to provide diagnosis in peripheral areas also. The need of the hour is to introduce control programs in the high risk States.

Jun 14, 2019 AIR

All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - India’s Contribution in UN Countering Terrorist Travel Programme

India’s contribution in UN countering Terrorist Travel Programme ARCHIVES Search 8th May, 2019 Spotlight News Analysis here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx TOPIC: General Studies 3: Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism In News: The United Office of Counter-Terrorism launched the 'UN Countering Terrorist Travel Programme'. Funded by: India, Japan, the Netherlands, Qatar and Saudi Arabia It is a flagship programme to support member states to help prosecute suspected terrorists. India helped the UN agencies get the programme started with its contribution of USD 250,000, giving them a push in the right direction and now other donors are also stepping in. India is at the forefront of efforts at the UN to combat terrorism and ensure that perpetrators of heinous terror attacks are brought to justice. UN Countering Terrorist Travel Programme The programme aims to support member states to use travel information to detect, prevent, investigate and prosecute suspected terrorists, while respecting high safeguards for data protection and in compliance with international human rights laws.  The UN will provide state-of-the-art software – 'goTravel' - capable of analysing travel data which, based on context-specific risks, will help them to detect and track suspected terrorists and their movements across borders. The programme will help member states collect, process and share travel data with other competent national and international authorities, with full respect for privacy and other fundamental freedoms. This information sharing will enhance the abilities of Member States to effectively detect, prevent, investigate and prosecute terrorist offences, including their related travel. Importantly, this will also enable the detection and disruption of human trafficking and other forms of serious organised crime and to faster identify their victims The first phase of the programme will run for five years and an estimated USD 12 million per year is required for it. A mix of technology and legislation Several UN counter-terrorism departments, as well as the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO), will work closely together to implement the initiative, which provides countries with free access to advanced “goTravel” software, which analyses travel data to help countries detect and disrupt terrorists’ movements. Another aspect of the Programme involves the UN supporting national authorities in the development of legislation and national expertise, via training and certification to operate the software lawfully and effectively. The “goTravel” software is a reconfigured version of a system donated by the Netherlands to the United Nations. Recent attacks 'tragic reminders of global reach of the scourge of terrorism' Sri Lanka is among the first confirmed beneficiary States of the programme. The island nation came under attack on Easter Sunday as terrorists killed over 250 people. The recent despicable attacks in Kenya, New Zealand and Sri Lanka, among others, are tragic reminders of the global reach of the scourge of terrorism. These attacks underscore the need to work closely with partners across the United Nations system and beyond. Merely days after Pakistan-based Jaish-e-Mohammed chief Masood Azhar was listed as a global terrorist at the UN Security Council, India gave a clarion call for strengthening efforts to adopt the long-pending Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism for countering the global scourge. India had proposed a draft document on the Comprehensive Convention on International Terrorism at the UN in 1986 but it has not been implemented as there is no unanimity on the definition of terrorism among the member states.  Following the territorial defeat of ISIS, many terrorists are trying to return home or relocate to safe havens or other troubled parts of the world. Many are well trained and could carry out future terrorist attacks. Others are hoping to radicalise and recruit new followers to their cause, representing a major transnational threat. Detecting and disrupting these terrorists and other high-risk criminals prior to them carrying out an an attack is a high priority for the international community. Balancing surveillance with data and human rights protection The technology is built with safeguards in place for data and human rights protection, explaining that after a certain period of time, sensitive data elements, such as sexual orientation, or trade union membership, will be automatically deleted by the system. The UN will work with national parliaments to ensure that new surveillance laws include independent and transparent oversight mechanisms. The programme represents the kind of cooperative, inter-governmental and institutional approach that should be adopted to meet the growing expectations and demands from countries most affected by terrorism. Must Read: Necessity of Stringent measures for global security