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Abhijit Gupta (ABG) Rank 511 in UPSC Civil Services 2017, Rank 53 in Indian Forest Service (IFoS) 2017, Currently Serving in Indian Engineering Services (IES)

Abhijit Gupta (ABG) (earlier Civil Service Aspirant 2016) as you all know him on IASbaba. Those following IASbaba from long can quite easily recognize this name. He is one of the sincere followers and student of IASbaba (ILP Student) from last one and half years. He is already serving in Indian Engineering Services (IES). He qualified Indian Forest Services (IFoS) with All India Rank-53 in 2017 and moving forward he qualified UPSC Civil Services 2017 with 511 Rank. Amazingly, he has the distinction of qualifying all the top 3 examinations conducted by UPSC. A very down to earth and committed student of IASbaba. He has been a guiding light for many in our TLP Mains Answer Writing Programme. And it is not only because of his writing skills but equally competent and helping attitude for others. He has been part of a sincere cohort group of TLP writers from wherein outstanding results have stood to its testimony. We have full faith that he will secure a very good rank in coming years!   Let’s hear the role of Integrated Learning Program (ILP) and various initiatives of IASbaba (60 Day Plan, Current Affairs, TLP, Interview Workshop etc) in his Success from Abhijit Gupta (ABG)  himself-  An Advice for other aspirants: This year’s result has again proved that focused and committed approach with quality guidance is the key to success in this examination. Don't run because others are also running. Run with competence to stay ahead and focus on the crossing line with all your effort and energy. Backward-looking attitude will only lower your speed and lessen your chance! We wish ABG a very prosperous and productive year ahead. Thank You IASbaba Team

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

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 12th May 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) India-Nepal Relations Part of: GS Prelims and Mains Paper II – India and Nepal; India and its neoghbours; IR In News: Yesterday, we had covered editorial on India-Nepal Relations. (Scaling up of India-Nepal bilateral relationship) Nepal government’s vision is to transform their land-locked Himalayan nation into a land-and-water-linked country and looks up to India to meet that vision. Key areas: Cultural Linkages Sita temple in Janakpur - Modi will be the first Indian prime minister to visit this temple, the mythical birthplace of Sita. Muktinath temple - revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. Ramayana circuit - Modi will kick-off the Ramayana circuit; inaugurate a bus service between Janakpur and Ayodhya (UP), the mythical birthplace of Rama. Energy Arun-III (900MW) hydel project India-sponsored Raxaul-Birgaunj integrated check-post Work has also started for the laying of an oil pipeline to Nepal. India also plans to build a rail link to Kathmandu. Do you know? The government has identified 15 destinations in India for development under the Ramayana Circuit theme — Ayodhya, Nandigram, Shringverpur and Chitrakoot (Uttar Pradesh), Sitamarhi, Buxar and Darbhanga (Bihar), Chitrakoot (Madhya Pradesh), Mahendragiri (Odisha), Jagdalpur (Chhattisgarh), Nashik and Nagpur (Maharashtra), Bhadrachalam (Telangana), Hampi (Karnataka) and Rameswaram (Tamil Nadu).   Pic link: https://static-news.moneycontrol.com/static-mcnews/2017/08/Ramayana-circuit-743x435.jpg Sexual harassment probe panels in courts soon Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Social and Welfare issue; Women safety In news: Supreme Court asked Chief Justices of High Courts across the country to set up anti-sexual harassment at workplace committees in High Courts and district courts within two months. The committees should be constituted in accordance with the mandate of The Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act of 2013 and the Vishaka case guidelines of the Supreme Court to protect women in workplaces. Important Value Additions: The Supreme Court-issued Vishaka Guidelines in 1997 that outlined procedural guidelines to be followed by establishments where a case of sexual harassment had occurred. In December 2013, Vishakha was superseded by the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention, Prohibition and Redressal) Act, which kept the essence of the Guidelines and added more provisions. The Act mandates that employers must constitute a four-member internal complaint committee (ICC) in any branch or office that employs more than 10 people of any gender. The law imposes a penalty of upto Rs 50,000 on employers who do not implement the Act in the workplace or even fail to constitute an ICC. Article link: Set up sexual harassment probe panels in courts ... - The Hindu India and Myanmar Part of: GS Prelims and Mains Paper II – India and its neoghbours; IR In News: India urges Myanmar to ensure the safe return of Rohingya citizens now staying in refugee camps in Bangladesh. A landmark land border-crossing agreement with the country was sealed. The agreement will allow people from both sides to cross the border with passport and visa for health and educational needs and tourism. Bangladesh has repeatedly urged India to intervene and pressure Myanmar to take back its citizens who are living in difficult circumstances on Bangladeshi territory. Both Myanmar and Bangladesh are members of the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) regional grouping, which is expected to hold a summit later this year. Important Value Additions: Myanmar is witnessing a brutal episode of violence since August 25, 2017 between Rohingya Muslims and Rakhine Buddhists. Some 2600 houses have allegedly been burnt, more than 100,000 Rohingyas have been forced to flee to neighbouring Bangladesh and approximately 1000 lives have been lost. Given the scale of death and destruction in such a short span of time, this latest phase of internal violence can easily be termed as the most horrifying in Myanmar’s recent history. The systematic deprivation and gross violations of basic human rights have forced Rohingyas to flee their native land and seek refuge in neighbouring states including Bangladesh, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia and India. They have been unable to rebuild their lives in most of these countries due to the lack of opportunities provided by the host nations to contribute to the economy of that country even through semi-skilled and unskilled labour work as well, due to the growing fear of their linkages with Islamic extremism. About BIMSTEC: The Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) is a regional organization comprising seven Member States namely Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand. The regional group acts as a bridge between South and South East Asia and represents a reinforcement of relations among these countries. Unseen for decades, rare butterflies re-emerge Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Biodiversity Key pointers: Unseen for decades, rare butterfly “Black windmill” (Byasa crassipes) spotted in Arunachal Pradesh’s Dibang Valley. “Siren butterfly” (Hestina nicevillei) was spotted in the Daranghati Wildlife Sanctuary in Himachal Pradesh in 2012. The species was being photographed for the first time in history, and being sighted for the first time in India since 1917. Both butterfly species are listed under Schedule I of India’s Wildlife Protection Act (1972), which ensures the insects the same protection as that given to tigers. “Frosted duskywing” (Erynnis pelias) was spotted in Arunachal Pradesh. Article link: Click here (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests India blocks Australia from Malabar naval exercise In news: Indian government decides to go ahead with this year’s ‘Malabar’ naval exercises trilaterally without including the Australian Navy. For three years, Australian officials have been lobbying to take part in the annual Malabar Exercise - but India has refused, under pressure from China. The war-gaming exercise includes the US and Japan and will take place off Guam this June. Key pointers: The annual Malabar exercise started in 1992 as a bilateral event between the navies of India and the United States. It was an important step in the process of reviving India’s relation with USA, as both countries had occupied opposite ends of the spectrum during the Cold War. Malabar exercise is done annually between India and US Navy. Earlier it was carried on west coast but from 2007 onwards, India is holding exercise in Bay of Bengal and alternatively in Sea of Japan. Japan have joined exercise 7 times before, but in 2017 they were formally inducted into the exercise. Malabar 2017 featured 95 aircraft, 16 ships and two submarines, making it one of the largest naval exercises in the region in recent times. Experts views: Australia’s exclusion has been viewed by experts as a casualty of India’s warming ties with China and a blow to efforts to revive the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, which the Australian Turnbull government has been keen to promote. Australian experts have said if all four quad countries — India, Australia, the US and Japan — were to be involved in military drills such as Exercise Malabar it would bolster the grouping. There is a fear that including Australia in the Malabar exercises will come out as signal against the Chinese. (says Experts) “Pitch Black” Air exercises India has stepped up bilateral naval exercises with Australia in the past two years, with the Indian Air Force will be taking part in the “Pitch Black” Air exercises in Australia for the first time in August 2018. In June 2017, the two nations held the AUSINDEX naval drills off the Western Australian coast, with a focus on increasing interoperability between their navies. Conclusion: In a way, the Indian government appears to be backtracking on the Quad while keeping bilateral defense ties with Canberra, Tokyo and Washington alive. India is playing a delicate geopolitical game, in which it has to take China’s perceptions into account. And New Delhi’s vetoing of a quadrilateral framework for naval drills with the US, Japan and Australia should be read as a sign of its unwillingness to join a multilateral front that Beijing could perceive as hostile. Connecting the dots: The Malabar exercise is a critical security exercise between countries who see china as a fierce challenger. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. NATIONAL TOPIC: General Studies 2: Functions and responsibilities of the Union and the States, issues and challenges pertaining to the federal structure, devolution of powers and finances up to local levels and challenges therein. Separation of powers between various organs dispute redressal mechanisms and institutions. Inter-State Water Dispute Cauvery riverine ecosystem on decline Introduction: The Cauvery has become a never-ending water-sharing dispute between Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. The complete riverine ecosystem in terminal decline. Problems at the source: The loss of forest cover and change in land use has meant a decline in rainfall levels, adversely affecting the inflow of water into the Cauvery and its tributaries upstream. A rise in temperature has been caused due to the rapid loss of tree cover due to reckless urbanisation in the town. A research shows how the doubling of land under coffee plantations, and developmental projects such as the construction of dams and roads, has resulted into the loss of 28% of the forest cover during the 30-year study period starting in 1977. Inter-State dispute: The inter-State water dispute is over a century old. The fight is over an overexploited river basin where demand has far outstripped the supply of water. Despite many attempts at resolving the dispute, neither the orders of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal nor those of the Supreme Court have been implemented faithfully. The Centre has not yet framed a Cauvery ‘scheme’ despite the court’s orders. Political parties and farmers in Tamil Nadu have been pressing hard for the constitution of a Cauvery Management Board. According to the court, the Board’s mandate is to manage the distribution of water between the States during distress periods and control the schedule of release of water from the reservoirs. Concerns: Deep borewells- Excessive withdrawal of groundwater using bore wells has caused a significant decline in the base flow of the river. The Bengaluru-based environmental research organisation ATREE has documented how the Arkavathi, a major tributary of the Cauvery in Karnataka, has been sucked dry by farmers using deep bore wells. Reclamation of riverbed- In the Cauvery delta districts of Tamil Nadu too, similar unsustainable farm practices are common. With the riverbed remaining dry for most of the year, farmers are reclaiming it for cultivation. In the 25-km stretch from Melur in Tiruchi to the Grand Anicut, there are several banana plantations and coconut trees on the riverbed, irrigated by motor pumps sunk deep into the river. The riverbed is heavily encroached on both sides in several stretches. In Tiruchi, for instance, large chunks of the riverbed have been taken over for construction of residential apartments and hotels. In parts of Kodagu, sand mining on the banks has widened the course of the river, reducing its pace. While sand mining on the riverbed was a major issue in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu until recently, judicial interventions and a concerted effort to switch to M-sand (manufactured sand produced from crushed granite) for construction has curbed this menace to a considerable extent. Hydel power projects on the river are also diverting too much water into reservoirs, thereby affecting the natural flow of the river. In 2013, the South Asia Network on Dams, Rivers and People drew attention to how 98 mini-hydel power plants commissioned or allotted on the Cauvery basin were diverting drinking water meant for Bengaluru. Construction of dams on the river- A Central Water Commission report in 2015 pointed out that sediment flow to the Cauvery delta has stopped due to siltation in the dams. Way ahead: Sustainable alternatives such as getting factories to use recycled industrial waste water and rainwater harvesting for domestic use, should be explored. Rain harvesting- In the Cauvery basin in Karnataka, at present only 23% of rainwater is harvested. In Tamil Nadu too, rainwater run-off flowing towards Kerala in the Cauvery basin has not been adequately tapped. The issue of rampant groundwater extraction, which directly impacts the flow of water in the river, has remained outside the purview of the Tribunal and the court. This needs to be checked by involving all the stakeholders, most importantly, the farmers. Connecting the dots: The complete Cauvery river ecosystem is on decline. Discuss the reasons behind. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Which of the below given pairs is/are correct? (Piligrim place) : : (Associated State) Bhadrachalam : : Andhra Pradesh Hampi : : Karnataka Buxar : : UP Mahendragiri : : Odisha Choose the appropriate answer: 1 and 2 only 2 and 4 only 1, 2 and 3 2, 3 and 4 Q.2) Consider the following statements: Under the Swadesh Darshan scheme, thirteen thematic circuits have been identified, for development. Ramayana Circuit is part of this Swadesh Darshan scheme. Under Swadesh Darshan scheme, the Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments/Union Territory Administrations, for various tourism projects. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 only 1, 2 and 3 None Q.3) Exercise MALABAR is a joint military exercise between which of the following given countries: India, USA, and Indonesia Japan, India, and Australia India, USA and France India, Japan and USA Q.4) “Pitch Black” Air exercise is between which of the following given countries: India and USA India and New Zealand India, USA and Australia India and Australia Q.5) Vishaka Vs State of Rajasthan case deals with – 2012 gang rape case which involved a rape and fatal assault. Enforcement of the fundamental rights of working women under Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution of India. Landmark judgment which declared that Preamble is part of the Constitution. Landmark judgment which played the most significant role towards the transformation of the judicial view on Article 21 of the Constitution of India so as to imply many more fundamental rights from article 21. Q.6) Sexual Harassment at Workplace Act 2013, was passed to protect women from sexual harassment. Which of the following statements are correct regarding this act? It is compulsory for an organization with atleast 100 or more employees to set up an internal complaints committee for addressing complaints of sexual harassment. It covers all kinds of work places including non – traditional ones as well as transport provided for work. It includes, unwelcome physical, verbal or non-verbal conduct of sexual nature, showing pornography, physical contact or advances, and making sexually-coloured remarks. Select the code from following: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above MUST READ A time to think fast The Hindu In state of energy poverty The Hindu Prosperity for peace Indian Express A challenging time for US, EU relationship Business Line

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RSTV- The Big Picture : Flashpoint Syria

Flashpoint Syria Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests In News: Russian President Vladimir Putin warned that further Western attacks on Sevilla would bring chaos to world affairs as Washington prepared to increase pressure on Russia with new economic sanctions. Putin and his Iranian counterpart Hassan Rouhani, have agreed that the Western strikes had damaged the chances of achieving a political resolution in the seven-year Syrian conflict. The United States, France and Britain launched 105 missiles targeting three chemical weapons facilities in Syria in retaliation for a suspected poison gas attack in Duma. The Western countries blame Assad for the Duma attack that killed dozens of people. The Syrian government and its ally Russia have denied involvement in any such attack. The bombings marked the biggest intervention by Western countries against Assad and Ally Russia. Situation in Syria and what it means for the world The larger reality of the Syrian conflict: Seven years down the line, but it remains where it was. Assad seems to be firmly at his place and people are suffering, and it doesn't really impact the big players directly. The perceived notion is to enforce the international law: This is a wrong move as any action should be taken via United Nations. Trump’s Issues: It seems as though Trump is trying to deviate all the heat that he's receiving locally. He is trying to deflect the pressure that he is facing on his own ground, back home in America. What does the situation look like? We will see a greater Russian presence in Syria now. Putin will have to emerge with an action plan for the region as to how he's going to react because he cannot continue to keep getting this kind of beating from them. Washington does not really have the capabilities at this point to shape the battleground; the battleground is very complex – the Kurds and the Turks are fighting, the Israelis and the Iranians are fighting. The Syrian government and the opponents are fighting on the ground. So, there exists more than one battleground. There is a bigger big power conflict between the Russians and the Americans – as to who would fall first. It is not just Syria – now it is more about shaping the larger Middle Eastern reality, something that that Mr. Trump has already acknowledged. The only country right now that has the ability to shift this game is not the Americans – there is absolutely no interest or any coherent capacity to intervene. It’s Israel. Israel continues to be waiting to see how far Iran is prepared to go against them because they assume that at some point when Iran has consolidated its hold over Syria, they will turn on Israel. Israel has been preparing for what they see is a three front war with Hezbollah, Hamas and Iran coming in from the Syrian side – that's the real future that we should be looking at because that's the real battle that will be coming in potentially as early as next year. Conclusion: What happened is unfortunate for the international system which seemed to have undermined the very basic ideas. But if at all there was a proof of the chemical weapon attack, this was definitely deplorable and it could have been condemned by all. Syria is just a small part of that larger game in the larger Middle East, which if not controlled now will probably escalate in some form. Therefore, the whole Middle Eastern situation is currently very worrisome. Not only it's worrisome for us, it has a direct impact on our own security and our own safety. It is also going to be a difficult balancing act for India because both Israel and Iran are extremely crucial for us. There's only one peace process right now that has any credibility which is the Astana process. But it would be difficult. Russia while it's powerful on the ground is diplomatically very weak. But the real issue would be – at some point if it is possible for Russia and the West, and preferably even Russia, Iran and the West to end their present larger big-picture disputes at the geopolitical level.   Read the Background story: Link 1 Connecting the Dots: Chemical attack in Syria has yet again proved the lethality of chemical disasters. Comment. Be Prelims-Ready: Astana process: Deals with the peace negotiations around Syria Capital: Damascus, historically called the Fragrant City Learn the following on the basis of the map: Neighbouring countries of Syria Order of countries both from top and bottom

MOTIVATION-Are you a good Finisher? IASbaba’s message to the Candidates for the Last Few Days Left for Prelims 2018 (OPEN FULL MOCK PAPER 1 ON 16TH MAY)

Hello Friends, Do you know them- MS Dhoni, Michael Bevan, Lance  Klusener and Mike Hussy? Of course, you know them. They are legends of cricket. But what is common among these Cricketers? Any guess? Yes, you guessed it right- they are known to be the best finishers the game of cricket has ever witnessed. Today we know them because even if they started their innings slowly and steadily, they would explode in the final slog overs and take their teams to the winning spot. It tells us the significance of the last few overs in the game of cricket. Even the apparently insurmountable targets can be achieved if the batsmen have the requisite power and the right temperament. Isn’t Prelims the same? Aren’t the coming few days before Prelims same as the slog overs of a cricket match? However, the real question is- do you intend to be a Dhoni? Imagine yourself as Dhoni who has to score at a rate of 15 runs per over to win the game. How would you do it? You will muster all the strength and skills that you have to hit the remaining deliveries out of the park and take your side home. Won’t you? Your initial strike rate might be poor but you would manage to make up for that eventually. Ultimately you would forget the poor start that you had at the start of your innings. Friends, it is time that you make full use of the remaining few days before prelims. Your efforts and inputs must be at their peak in the upcoming days, hours, minutes and seconds. With each passing day, you will need to up the tempo and give your best to succeed. You might be feeling today that your preparation is not up to the mark but that ain’t any reason to stop. Your preparation, the questions asked in Prelims and the result, aren’t necessarily in sync always. You do need a bit of luck to succeed. After all, we have seen tail enders hitting sixes and winning the match for their teams! By no means, we are trying to downplay your preparation or compare you with the tail-enders. The only point we are trying to make here is that your efforts in the coming 15 days would matter the most. You might have started well but what if you have lost your way in between? What if you have grown overconfident without even realising it? All your efforts would go in vain then? Isn’t it? So this is no time to rest or be complacent. You have got thousands of candidates to compete with and who knows, the final push might prove to be the game changer for you! Here are some final do’s and don’ts for you in the last leg of your preparation: Do’s Don’ts Revise the scoring components of the syllabus like History, Polity, Geography and Economics. Devote at least 2 hours on each subject. Don’t start reading anything new or uncovered in Culture, Environment and Science. Revise the current affairs. Devote at least an hour on it. Don’t divert your attention to the current affairs of the last one month. Practice at least one CSAT paper in three days. Don't ignore CSAT Paper II. Many candidates failed to even cross 33% marks in Paper II. If possible, make a small and closed group of sincere candidates and discuss what you feel are important topics for this year. Ask questions to each other. Don't interact with negative minded people. Try to analyse the areas in which you have been making mistakes in the tests. Don't repeat the same mistakes that you have been making, especially the silly ones. Inculcate the habit of reading the questions at least twice. Don’t be in a hurry to answer questions. Take at least 6-8 hours of sleep. Don't compromise with your biological clock by sleeping during odd hours. Take proper nutrition. Don't eat junk food. ANNOUNCEMENT   There will be an OPEN MOCK of General Studies (Paper 1), first on 16th May and second on 23rd May.    Guidelines for Open Mock Mock has to be taken in Offline Mode from wherever you are. Download this OMR and keep a print of it. Download Here On 16th May, once the Mock is uploaded, take a print of the question paper and solve it in the way you will do in the real exam. Set a timer for the Mock and complete the same in 2 hours. Upload the Screenshot of OMR in the comment section once you are done with the examination. We will also provide a form wherein you have to fill your marks after the solution is updated. We will release the cut off and Rank List as well. Offline Mode is kept for your experience hence your honesty will let us know the exact rank list and cut off :) Kindly note- These two mocks are the same as given in 60 Day Plan. We are conducting it before so that you have sufficient time for revision.   Finally, we have got one last thing to say- When you enter the examination hall, you shouldn’t have regrets about the last few days of your preparation. You should be able to pat on your back and say to yourself- “preparation well done”.   All the Best IASbaba Team

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 11th May 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 11th May 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Clean Ganga Mission: ‘70% of Ganga will be cleaned by May 2019’ Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Water Pollution In News: Yesterday we read that only about a fifth of the ₹20,000 crore allotted for the National Clean Ganga Mission (NCGM) has been utilised till March 2018. In response to it, Union Water Resources Minister said the government will spend ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 crore this year to ensure that at least 70% of the Ganga will be clean by next May (2019). Person in News: Mahathir Mohamad Part of: GS Prelims – World/Current Affairs In News: Mahathir Mohamad becomes the world’s oldest elected leader (aged 92 years) He was sworn in as Malaysia’s Prime Minister He had previously ruled the country for 22 years Place in News: Golan Heights Part of: GS Prelims – Geography or International Affairs Observe from the figure/map below the following – Sea of Galilee Jordan River and Yamuk river Surrounding countries - Pic link: https://i.pinimg.com/originals/7e/bb/8b/7ebb8b5eda782c38857f988f85e54f15.jpg Important Value Additions: About Golan Heights The Golan Heights, a rocky plateau in south-western Syria, has a political and strategic significance which belies its size. Whoever controls this area has a major strategic advantage. Golan Heights is the area captured from Syria and occupied by Israel during the Six-Day War, territory which Israel annexed in 1981. Israel unilaterally annexed the Golan Heights in 1981. The move was not recognised internationally. Why Golan Heights is important? Having control of the Golan gives Israel a vantage point from which to monitor any Syrian military movements towards Israel. The area is a key source of water for an arid region. Rainwater from the Golan's catchment feeds into the Jordan River. The area provides a third of Israel's water supply. The land is fertile, with the volcanic soil being used to cultivate vineyards and orchards and to raise cattle. The Golan is also home to Israel's only ski resort. Do you know? United Nations peacekeepers have been in the Golan Heights since 1974 supervising a ceasefire between Israel and Syria. The United States considers the Golan Heights to be Syrian territory held under Israeli occupation subject to negotiation and Israeli withdrawal. The United States considers the application of Israeli law to the Golan Heights to be a violation of international law, both the Fourth Geneva Convention's prohibition on the acquisition of territory by force and United Nations Security Council Resolution 242 (adopted under Chapter VI of the UN Charter). President Ram Nath Kovind visits Siachen Part of: GS Prelims In News: President Ram Nath Kovind visits Siachen Army base camp (located at an altitude of 18,875 feet) First time by a President in 14 years Important Value Additions: About Siachen Siachen Glacier has been militarized by both India and Pakistan since 1984 as a result of the countries' conflicting claims over Kashmir, and inadequate attention to achieving a permanent border in the regions' northernmost reaches. The Siachen Glacier occupies the northernmost reaches of Jammu and Kashmir, the disputed territory between northern India and Pakistan. The Glacier is part of the Karakorum mountain range. Do you know? Siachen Glacier exhibits a landscape characteristic of the Himalayas, which have been dubbed the "Third Pole" due to their comparability to the Arctic and Antarctic regions. 15th Asia Media Summit 2018 Part of: GS Prelims Key Pointers: This is the first time the summit has been organised in India. The theme is ‘Telling Our Stories Asia and More.’ Chytrid fungus: Fungus that attacks frogs Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Biodiversity Key Pointers: The chytrid fungus — which has caused amphibian declines worldwide and has been recorded in India too — possibly originated in east Asia The chytrid fungus has affected around 700 amphibian species worldwide and caused frog declines and even extinctions in many areas. Animal in News: Walrus Key pointers about Walrus IUCN status: Vulnerable The walrus is a large flippered marine mammal with a discontinuous distribution about the North Pole in the Arctic Ocean and subarctic seas of the Northern Hemisphere. They are considered to be a "keystone species" in the Arctic marine regions. [caption id="attachment_40941" align="aligncenter" width="548"] This undated photo provided by U.S. Fish and Wildlife shows Walrus cows and yearlings resting on ice in Alaska. An environmental activist wants the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to reconsider using anchored rafts in the Chukchi Sea to provide walruses a platform to rest. Diminished sea ice brought on by global warming in recent years has forced walruses to the Russia and Alaska coasts in herds of 35,000 or more. (Joel Garlich-Miller/U.S. Fish and Wildlife via AP)[/caption] Pic Link: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/05/11/MUM/Mumbai/TH/5_18/61bb35d3_2092042_1_mr.jpg This species is subdivided into three subspecies: the Atlantic walrus (O. r. rosmarus) which lives in the Atlantic Ocean, the Pacific walrus (O. r. divergens) which lives in the Pacific Ocean, and O. r. laptevi, which lives in the Laptev Sea of the Arctic Ocean. Range: The walrus is circumpolar in its range but they are found in geographically separate areas. The Pacific walrus is found in the Bering, Chukchi, and Laptev Sea, while the Atlantic walrus inhabits the coastal regions of northeastern Canada and Greenland. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/WELFARE ISSUE TOPIC:General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population Important aspects of governance Can having a DNA database increase rape case convictions? In News: According to the National Crime Records Bureau, only about a quarter of rape cases ended in conviction in 2016. Since identifying the rapist is the first step to serving justice, government is of the belief that India needs a sex offenders’ database or a DNA database of those accused and charged with rape. India has developed a draft Bill for such a DNA database and the Andhra Pradesh government even announced that it has signed up with a private agency for collecting DNA from all its citizens. Concerns Based on experience in other countries, building such a database is not easy, does not always offer justice, and is an ethical landmine of sorts. (says experts) Experts who routinely use DNA databases express serious concerns about DNA databases and profiling. DNA identification technologies have advanced so much that even minor genetic differences, such as those among family members, may be used to distinguish individuals and identify a person from his or her unique DNA. However, planting of DNA in a crime scene, misinterpretation of tests, and errors in analyses have all taken place in cases where DNA has been used to implicate a suspect, resulting in the miscarriage of justice. Besides, everybody leaves traces of DNA in numerous places, as cells are shed, leading to ridiculous mistakes. Protecting innocent people’s privacy and their civil liberties and rights are the main concerns. DNA information could be misused just as their personal information and profiles are being misused by many data mining companies. There are instances of Police department involving in unethical and unlawful collection of DNA samples without warrants. Such samples later get included in forensic DNA databanks, thus violating people’s civil liberties. Some people have said that having everyone’s DNA in the database would be a good thing, since anyone can be apprehended if matched to a crime scene. But experience with the U.K. and U.S. databanks has shown that having more innocent people’s DNA stored increases the chances of a false positive and has not increased the chances of finding a guilty match. Way ahead: Regarding a DNA database for India, at the very least, the following should be ensured: It is absolutely essential that the people from whom DNA is taken give their informed consent. Taking DNA secretively should be prohibited. A court order should be required for obtaining DNA without informed consent and the DNA should only be compared with the crime scene DNA for the suspect. Those who are cleared for a crime should not have their DNA information stored. DNA gathered from offenders should be destroyed after identification so that such information is not used for profiling in future. A court order should be necessary to access medical records for genetic data. Connecting the dots: According to the National Crime Records Bureau, only about a quarter of rape cases ended in conviction in 2016. Can having a DNA database of all citizens help increase convictions of rape accused? INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General Studies 2: India and its neighbourhood- relations. 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 Scaling up of India-Nepal bilateral relationship In news: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be visiting Nepal from 11-12 May. This visit is taking place approximately a month after Nepalese Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli visited New Delhi. These back-and-forth visits indicate that India and Nepal are working towards scaling up their bilateral relationship. Modi was the first Indian PM to visit Nepal after a gap of 17 years in 2014. The upcoming visit will be his third, also a record for any major leader. Most importantly, this is the first time any top Indian leader will start a Nepal tour from a city other than Kathmandu. Facts: To reaffirm the shared cultural heritage between the two countries- Modi will be the first Indian prime minister to visit the Sita temple in Janakpur, the mythical birthplace of Sita at the Madhesi heartland, in the Terai region. He will also visit Muktinath (Mustang district) in the northern part of Nepal. The Muktinath temple is revered by both Hindus and Buddhists. By visiting cultural destinations in Nepal’s south as well as north, Modi will be emphasizing the depth of cultural linkages between the two nations. Significance of the visit: For those in Janakpur and around, it is an opportunity to put the city on the world tourism map as Modi will kick-off the Ramayana circuit. The two PMs will also inaugurate a bus service between Janakpur and Ayodhya (UP), the mythical birthplace of Rama. For Modi and Oli this will also be an opportunity to give India-Nepal relations a renewed push. Background: In the year 2015, India-Nepal relations hit a low over the promulgation of the constitution and the Madhesi agitation. Oli, who assumed power in October 2015, emerged as the most popular leader of Nepal, accusing Delhi of enforcing a nearly six-month-long ‘blockade’ between end 2015 and early 2016, in support of Madhesis. In April, the Nepalese PM made his first foreign tour to India. Apart from entering a host of bilateral agreements, including the ambitious river transport deal; Oli promised cooperation for India-sponsored projects. This was an important step as Indian projects had suffered during Oli’s first term between October 2015 and August 2016 and China had taken advantage of that. Reasons behind revival: The left alliance government in Nepal, headed by Oli, enjoys a strong presence in the national parliament as well as in provincial governments. Given the current domestic political stability, there is greater confidence in Nepal’s external engagements. There seems to be a growing recognition in India as well as in Nepal that deterioration in relations between the two countries, with close socio-economic-cultural relations, is not desirable. There is a strong opinion that India is reaching out to Kathmandu because of China’s growing presence in Nepal. Some also suspect a Chinese hand behind Nepal’s thaw in relations with India. Beijing can connect Kathmandu by rail from the Northern border but the Belt and Road will be incomplete, if not unviable, until India grants connectivity. The Challenge: Given its location, Nepal would play one major power against the other to maintain its autonomy. Even during the Cold War, Nepal received assistance from the US and its allies, as well as from the erstwhile Soviet Union. Like India, which sought to use its non-alignment policy to benefit economically from both camps during the Cold War, Nepal also deployed its foreign policy for economic gain from all powers. Given Nepal’s power asymmetry with India and China, it seeks to swing between the two nations to maintain autonomy. Countering China: While China does not have people-to-people interactions on a par with India, it has a long history of deploying overseas assistance to Nepal. In the 1960s and 1970s, it was involved in developing the Kodari-Kathmandu road and Kathmandu-Pokhara road. Unlike the earlier projects, recent proposed Chinese projects, such as the proposal to build a railway line connecting Tibet with Kathmandu, will have significant geopolitical as well as geo-economic implications for India. Acceleration of Indian projects: In his second term, Nepalese PM Oli has made concerted efforts to improve ties. In the last few months the Nepalese government cleared hurdles for the Rs. 5,723-crore Arun-III (900MW) hydel project. Recenty, the Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam Ltd got the much awaited generation license and both the leaders will soon lay the foundation stone for the project. Nepal has also promised all cooperation to India’s plan to build a rail link to Kathmandu. A survey will be launched soon in this regard. India-sponsored Raxaul-Birgaunj integrated check-post became operational last month. Work has also started for the laying of an oil pipeline to Nepal. Conclusion: PM Modi’s visit to Nepal will significantly improve ties after the relationship hit the low in 2015. Connecting the dots: India and Nepal are working towards scaling up their bilateral relationship. Comment. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Who is considered to be the world’s oldest elected leader? Joko Widodo Mahathir Mohamad Elizabeth II Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Q.2) The area known as ‘Golan Heights’ sometimes appears in the news in the context of the events related to Central Asia Middle East South-East Asia Central Africa Q.3) Consider the following statements: Sea of Galilee is between Syria and Lebanon Golan Heights is a grassland plain in south-western Syria but annexed by Israel Rainwater from the Golan's catchment feeds into the Jordan River. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 3 only 1, 2 and 3 None Q.4) Siachen Glacier is part of – Pir Panjal Range Karakoram Range Zanskar Range Ladakh Range Q.5) Consider the below map: Identify the mountain ranges marked 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively: Ladakh, Zaskar, Karakoram and Pir Panjal Karakoram, Zaskar, Pir Panjal and Ladakh Ladakh, Pir Panjal, Karakoram and Zaskar Karakoram, Ladakh, Zaskar and Pir Panjal Q.6) Which of the following species are known as the ‘Panda of the sea’? King Penguin Walrus Vaquita porpoise Indian Dugong Q.7) Consider the below statements about United Nations Security Council Resolution 242: United Nations Security Council Resolution 242 deals with Six-Day War. It was adopted under Chapter VI of the UN Charter. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ It's not about the nuclear deal The Hindu Pokhran II- Twenty years later The Hindu Sop to China or signal to Australia? Indian Express The dream of a Harvard on the Ganga banks Livemint Trump's Iran move isn't surprising Business Line

Topper's From IASbaba

An Inspiring Story for Working Professionals - Anjali S (AIR 26) UPSC CSE 2017, English Literature OPTIONAL

Many complain its difficult to balance work and studies. But Anjali S, who hails from Kerala has a different story to tell. She could not clear Prelims in 2 attempts, but in 3rd Attempt gets 26th Rank ! Like others, she too found it difficult at times, but never quit work. Infact she is still working with Deloitte Consulting. She believes that "Working gives you a sense of guilding, when you have failures.. it also gives you a solid place to fall on and you don't fall on the ground!" Come let's hear from Anjali S, Rank 26 about her UPSC journey, how she could balance work and study and how her work experience was helpful in Mains and Interview Other important highlights of the Discussion: Preparation Strategy for Prelims, Mains and Interview Emphasis on Essay Strategy and on how she made use of Graphical Representation in her Essay Emphasis on Ethics Strategy, she goes about explaining on how to solve Case Studies with examples Time Management for a Working Professional How to go about English Literature OPTIONAL  Answer Writing Tips Importance of Mentors Motivational factor and many more  Once again Heartiest Congratulations from IASbaba!! You can also check our Toppers from CSE-2017– Click Here Thank You IASbaba

IASbaba’s 60 Day Plan- Prelims Test 2018 ENVIRONMENT & CURRENT AFFAIRS [Day 52]

Hello Friends,  The 60 Days Training has finally begun:) Before any competition, there is a preparatory phase. That phase involves a lot of sessions on strengths and weaknesses. Throughout the preparatory phase, the athletes train in a gradual manner. In the last phase, just before the actual competition, the training is done so as to sharpen their skills. This training requires complete focus and dedication. In this phase, the athletes do not try anything new or train in a new fashion rather focus on sharpening of skills, focusing on strength and precision. Similarly, the upcoming 60 days, is like the last phase (training session), just before the actual competition. Here, the focus should be on sharpening the concepts, consolidating the knowledge base and solidifying the learning with loads and loads of revision. CLICK HERE TO READ FULL DETAILS AND SOLVE QUESTIONS

Topper's From IASbaba

UPSC/IAS TOPPER’S STRATEGY: Tapasya Parihar (AIR 23) CSE 2017, LAW OPTIONAL-IASbaba’s ILP Student

Rank- 23, Tapasya Parihar CSE 2017, a student of ILS Law College, Pune who was our ILP-2017 student shares her preparation strategy with IASbaba.  Apart from Integrated Learning Program, (ILP) she was a regular follower of our other initiatives like 60 days Plan, Daily Current Affairs and TLP Mains Answer Writing Program.   Watch Tapasya Parihar sharing her Complete Preparation Strategy (Prelims, Mains, Essay and Interview) with IASbaba. Other important highlights of the Discussion: An app that was useful in time management, which plays a major role in UPSC preparation. Advice on how to choose an Optional? Emphasis on how to go about LAW OPTIONAL (which many say, has not been doing well in the past 2-3 years). Answer Writing Tips Role of IASbaba in her Success Tackling certain grey areas like S&T, Environment, Art & Culture, Current Affairs Advice for fellow Aspirants .. Last Minute Tips Motivational factor and many more  When we started ILP (Integrated Learning Program), we had a vision that a person situated in the remote corners of the country can clear the exam relying only on it in the very first attempt. Tapasya Parihar and many more have proved it by their faith and consistent effort throughout the programme. And that is why ILP is unique and true to its motto. That’s the reason we mentioned it was not a mere test series , but a comprehensive learning platform! Let’s hear the role of Integrated Learning Program (ILP) in her Success from Tapasya Parihar herself-  Examples like her give us strength and motivation to strive forward to achieve what we started our journey for – to provide quality education to aspirants in the remotest corner of India. She has also justified our moto i.e. “One stop destination for UPSC”. Once again Heartiest Congratulations from IASbaba!! You can also check our Toppers from CSE-2017– Click Here Thank You IASbaba

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 10th May 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 10th May 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Walmart to buy control of Flipkart Part of: GS Prelims and Mains Paper III – Indian Economy In News: Walmart to buy control of Flipkart - $16 bn deal - largest ever Indian acquisition by a foreign firm The deal will help Walmart (world’s largest retailer) to compete with its U.S. rival Amazon.com in a battle for dominance of India’s online marketplace. Do you know? Previous biggest acquisition was by Vodafone in 2007 Vodafone spent $13 billion to buy Hutchison’s Indian business India is one of the most attractive retail markets in the world, given its size and growth rate Important Value Additions: Role of SEBI Securities and Exchange Board of India ("SEBI”) regulates Mergers and Acquisitions transactions involving entities listed on recognised stock exchanges in India. Listed public companies, unlike unlisted companies, are required to be in compliance with applicable SEBI laws and the listing regulations. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011 (in short - Takeover Code) regulates both the direct and indirect acquisition of shares, voting rights and control in listed companies that are traded over the stock market. Article Link: Walmart to buy control of Flipkart - Today's Paper - The Hindu World’s second oldest rock is from Odisha Part of: GS Prelims and Mains Paper II and III – Geography (Geology) and Science In News: World’s second oldest rock discovered in Odisha (4,240 million years old) - Singhbhum rock Rock sample recovered from Champua in Odisha’s Kendujhar district 4.2 billion-year-old zircon in the rock offers fresh clues about the earth’s origins Where is the first oldest rock in the world? Oldest rock sample in the world was discovered in Jack Hill, Western Australia (4,400 million years old) On what method the rock sample is considered as the oldest? Scientists have found in the rock a grain of ‘magmatic zircon’ that is an estimated 4,240 million years old. Zircon is a mineral that contains traces of radioactive isotopes. The machine used is called Sensitive High Resolution Ion Microprobe (SHRIMP). It is not available in India. Benefit of this discovery Their study will add valuable information about the presence of water in the first few hundred million years of the Earth’s history. It will also give us clues to when plate tectonics began. Article link: World’s second oldest rock is from Odisha IMD in damage-control mode Part of: GS Prelims and Mains paper III – Disaster Management Key Pointers: India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues four types colour codes signifying the level of caution: green (which means no action), yellow (situation to be watched), amber (government agencies be prepared for severe weather) and red (action needed by the agencies). IMD had recently issued an amber-coloured alert for J&K, Uttarakhand, Himachal, Haryana, Delhi and west U.P. with a forecast of severe thunderstorm. Article Link: IMD in damage-control mode - NATIONAL - The Hindu Clean Ganga Mission spend less than a quarter of the funds Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Water Pollution In News: Only about a fifth of the ₹20,000 crore allotted for the National Clean Ganga Mission (NCGM) has been utilised till March 2018. The NMCG [National Mission for Clean Ganga] has been able to spend less than a quarter of the funds earmarked for the project in the last two financial years. (Report by CAG in 2017) Concerns: Government’s Ganga-cleaning exercise has come under criticism. Government had promised a “visible change” in the Ganga water quality by 2019. However, only around 20% of Clean Ganga Mission funds have been spent till March. Key pointers: The Ganges passes through the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. Coursing 2,500 km, the Ganga is the longest river within India’s borders. The river basin spreads across 11 States (from Uttarakhand to West Bengal) Much of its pollution load — chemical effluents, sewage, dead bodies, and excreta — comes from the five states which are located along the river’s main stem: i.e. Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and West Bengal. Do you know? The industrial pollutants (volume wise) accounts for about 20%. The municipal sewage accounts for 80% of the pollution load. The industrial pollutants largely emanate from tanneries in Kanpur and distilleries, paper mills and sugar mills in the Kosi, Ramganga and Kali river catchments. Important Value Additions: Ganges flows through the nations of India and Bangladesh. Source: Gangotri Glacier (Uttarakhand) Major left-bank tributaries include Gomti (Gumti), Ghaghara (Gogra), Gandaki (Gandak), and Kosi (Kusi) Major right-bank tributaries include Yamuna (Jumna), Son, Punpun and Damodar. The Ganges is the third largest river in the world by discharge. About National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) NMCG was registered as a society under the Societies Registration Act 1860. It acted as implementation arm of National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) which was constituted under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act (EPA), 1986. NGRBA has since been dissolved with effect from the 7th October 2016, consequent to constitution of National Council for Rejuvenation, Protection and Management of River Ganga (referred as National Ganga Council) National Ganga Council is under chairmanship of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. Empowered Task Force (ETF) on river Ganga under chairmanship of Hon’ble Union Minister of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. Article Link: Only 20% of Clean Ganga Mission funds spent till March 2018 Taj discolouration Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Art and Culture (Architecture); Environment and Ecology; Effects of Pollution; Conservation of Heritage sites and Monuments Key Pointers: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been criticized by the SC for its lack of commitment to protect the monument. ASI is charged with the responsibility of maintenance of the historic monument. ASI The ASI tells Supreme Court that the numerous footfalls everyday has taken a toll on the Taj. Unwashed socks worn by visitors and rampant algae seem to turn the Taj Mahal from its natural white to yellow, brown and green – according to ASI. Other concerns: River Yamuna, which used to flow nearby, has dried up. Encroachments and industries have cropped up in the neighbourhood of the white marble mausoleum. Marble was yellowing on account of sulphur fumes from the surrounding industries. Important Value Additions: Supreme Court is lauded for its constructive application of Article 142 in an effort to bring complete justice to various deprived sections of society or to protect the environment. Article 142 provides that “the Supreme Court in the exercise of its jurisdiction may pass such decree or make such order as is necessary for doing complete justice in any cause or matter pending before it…” About Taj Mahal and its architecture: The most important work and the pride of Mughal Architecture, built by Shah Jahan. Entire structure is made of white marble quarried from Makrana. It has four minarets which are made in such a way that just in case if they fall, they fall outwards and not on the central structure. Pietra dura work has been extensively used and colourful gems have been embedded in the white marble to provide different natural and geometric motifs. Arabesque of Quranic verses have been written in a unique way. Part of UNESCO World Heritage site (since 1983). Article link: Dirty socks, algae behind Taj Mahal discolouration, ASI tells Supreme Court India to face impact of U.S. decision on Iran Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – International Relations and Economy In News: U.S. President Donald Trump decides to pull out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran. Impacts of sanctions on India: Iran is India’s third biggest supplier (after Iraq and Saudi Arabia) of crude oil, and any increase in prices will hit both inflation levels and the rupee. New U.S. sanctions could slow or even bring India’s plans to develop Shahid Beheshti Port in Chabahar to halt. Plans for International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) gathered momentum after the JCPOA was signed in 2015 and sanctions on Iran were lifted. But with new sanctions INSTC plans may slow down. On 9 June 2017, at a summit in Astana, India and Pakistan officially joined SCO as full-fledged members. China is considering inducting Iran into the eight-member Eurasian security organisation. If the proposal is accepted, India will become a member of a bloc that will be seen as anti-American. For more details on SCO – click this link - https://iasbaba.com/2016/06/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-11th-june-2016/ Key Pointers: India is a founder member of the 18-year-old International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) that starts from Iran and aims to cut right across Central Asia to Russia over a 7,200-km multi-mode network. For more details on INSTC – click this link - https://iasbaba.com/2016/10/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-25th-october-2016/ Article link: India to face impact of U.S. decision on Iran - NATIONAL - The Hindu (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General Studies 2: India and its neighbourhood- relations. 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 U.S. withdrawal from Iran nuclear deal: Reason behind and Consequences In news: President Donald Trump recently decided to unilaterally pull the U.S. out of the Iran nuclear deal and to re-imposing nuclear sanctions against that country. It is a huge setback to multilateral diplomacy and the rules-based international order. Iran nuclear deal (The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action): The agreement, signed in 2015 by Iran with the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, Germany and the EU, curtailed its nuclear programme in return for withdrawing economic sanctions. It was reached after 18 months of painful negotiations. Under the deal, most of Iran’s enriched uranium was shipped out of the country, a heavy water facility was rendered inoperable and the operational nuclear facilities were brought under international inspection. Reason behind the decision: Mr. Trump’s decision is not about Iran acquiring nuclear weapons. If it was the actual concern, it would have supported a deal that closes the path towards nuclear weapons for Iran. Instead, the bigger concern for Mr. Trump as well as Washington’s closest allies in West Asia — Israel and Saudi Arabia — is Iran’s re-accommodation in the global economic mainstream. They fear that if Iran’s economic profile rises, it will embolden it to increase its regional presence, posing a strategic threat to the interests of the U.S.-Saudi-Israel axis. Iran's response: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani declared that his government remains committed to a nuclear deal with world powers, despite the US decision to withdraw, but is also ready to resume uranium enrichment should the new sanctions against Iran become effective. Undoubtedly, the US exit from the nuclear deal comes as a great defeat for Rouhani against the Iranian hardliners who warned him against diplomacy with the Americans. Fallout: In Iran, the moderate government of President Hassan Rouhani went ahead with the deal despite strong opposition from hardliners. Mr. Trump has wrecked all the efforts, despite numerous reports, including from American intelligence agencies, that Iran is 100% compliant with the terms of the agreement. The U.S. action doesn’t necessarily trigger an immediate collapse of the agreement. For now, Europe, Russia and China remain committed to it. But the challenges will emerge, not only for Europe but also for other nations with strong trade ties with Iran, including India, once American sanctions are in place. Trump’s decision to reinstate US nuclear-related sanctions against Iran could cripple the Iranian economy and most probably create new urban riots around the country. But, worsening domestic problems in Iran could spell widespread geo-political trouble for the whole region. Trump’s decision could make a war scenario much more likely, unless there is a regime change in Iran, which is very unlikely. For India: The reintroduction of sanctions against Iran is bad news. Iran is now India’s third largest source of oil. Apart from supply disruptions, a further surge in crude prices will worsen India’s current account imbalance and fuel inflation, at a time when the economy is just beginning to show signs of returning to a high growth trajectory. For global corporations too, there will be considerable pain. For example, there are said to be around 200 French companies operating in Iran and some like Renault have plants there. They will now have a 90-day period to wind down operations. India’s Chabahar port project in Iran, which was just showing signs of moving forward, could be in trouble. Way ahead: The U.S. stands isolated in its decision. Europe and other powers (UN permanent members) should stick together to respect the mandate of an international agreement. Any sanctions imposed by U.S. will hurt the global economy and may force Iran to stock nuclear weapons, further complicating the situation. Thus, the need of the hour is to standby with the agreement even after the U.S. has withdrawn. Connecting the dots: The U.S. has unilaterally decided to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal. Discuss the reason behind. Also, analyse the consequences of such a decision and how it would impact India. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General Studies 2: India and its neighbourhood- relations. 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 Between the Elephant and the Dragon Introduction: Iran, one of the major exporters of oil and natural gas to India and global markets will have a tough time in exporting its natural resources. What are the possible impacts of US’s decision to reinstate sanctions on Iran? Will it impact India’s trade relations with Iran? Experts say sanctions on Iran will not have much impact on India’s trade relations with Iran. However, what will impact India is the upward movement in international crude prices in the coming days, as the sanctions raise concerns that the global supply of oil will be squeezed. If the European Union (EU) were to continue status quo and not re-impose sanctions, Iranian supplies to India will continue unhindered. India pays its third largest oil supplier (Iran after Iraq and Saudi Arabia) in Euros using European banking channels and unless these are blocked, imports will continue. Major concern for India: China’s role in development of the Chabahar port Iran is attempting to woo Chinese investment in Chabahar. Development of Chabahar port is often projected as India’s pet project (and a response to Gwadar in Pakistan) Iran’s attempt to invite Chinese investment is perceived as an attempt to dilute Indian influence. Key shifts: For Iran, Chabahar means business. Post-sanctions, the development of the Chabahar port reflects Iranian quest for multilateralism, and China by default is an important player in the Iranian scheme of things. Given the negative ties between US and Iran, Iran will push to maintain cordial relationship with a rising power like China. China and Iran China is one of the few countries which never severed its ties with Iran. China had played a crucial role in bringing Iran to the diplomatic table to negotiate the P5+1 nuclear deal. China was also one of the countries that maintained steady trade relations with Iran even during the sanctions era. Iran may eye for further participation in China’s connectivity projects. A large chunk of China-Iran trade is petroleum-based products. China is the largest importer of Iranian oil. Over the years, China has emerged as Iran's leading trade partner. Post-sanctions, Chinese President, Xi Jinping was the first head of state to visit Iran, in January 2016. Both countries decided to increase their bilateral trade to $600 billion in the coming decade. Iran, with its massive infrastructural needs, sees China as its most valued partner and Beijing has been investing in Iran in crucial sectors like railways. China International Trust and Investment Corporation (CITIC), a state owned investment wing has extended $10 billion credit line to Tehran. Besides, China Development Bank has also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Iranian government worth around $15 billion. Chinese investments in Iran are part and parcel of its ambitious $1 trillion Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Iran also perceives the BRI as a project that would make it an indispensable transit hub for countries like China, India and Russia and an effective antidote to the U.S. sanctions. In addition to their economic partnership, China and Iran share substantial defence cooperation with each other. After the 1979 revolution, Tehran has been dependent on Beijing for meeting its defence requirements. China, being permanent member of the Security Council with veto power, could be of great strategic help for Iran when it comes to vetoing any proposal against Iran in the United Nations. A parallel, China-dominated global order suits Iran more than the U.S.-centric world order. India’s policy options: This strong relationship between Tehran and Beijing makes it pertinent for New Delhi to navigate its interests in the region accordingly. To assume that Iran would help India counter Chinese influence in the region might be wishful thinking. India needs to resist the temptation of falling prey to “excessive securitisation” in the case of Chabahar agreement in particular and India-Iran relations in general. The way ahead for India: For India, to be an influential player in the region, economics and politics should complement and not substitute each other. India will have to capitalise upon the existing synergies. India should offer favourable terms of trade in the region vis-à-vis China. To consolidate its strategic depth in the region, India should focus on initiatives like frequent joint naval exercises in the Persian Gulf. India should adopt a nuanced approach towards Chinese investment in Iran, especially now when Iran’s reliance upon China is likely to grow (with Trump’s decision to pull out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)). India might also consider option of joint cooperation with China in Chabahar project. Some form of Chinese participation in the Chabahar project would be helpful for the future of the project, especially if the terms and conditions are clearly specified. Just like how India and China are exploring joint economic projects in Afghanistan; they can also extend this engagement to the Chabahar. Connecting the dots: The U.S. has unilaterally decided to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal. Discuss the reason behind. Also, analyse the consequences of such a decision and how it would impact India. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Which among the following acquisition is the largest ever Indian acquisition by a foreign firm, which was in news recently? Walmart-Flipkart deal Amazon-Flipkart deal Vodafone- Hutchison deal Alibaba-Jio deal Q.2) Consider the following statements: The security market of India is regulated by SEBI. SEBI regulates Mergers and Acquisitions transactions involving entities listed on recognised stock exchanges in India. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 None Q.3) The world’s first oldest rock was discovered in? Singhbhum, Odisha Kendujhar, Odisha Jack Hill, Australia Both a and b Q.4) Consider the following statements with reference to river Ganga: The municipal sewage accounts for 20% of the pollution load. The industrial pollutants (volume wise) accounts for about 80%. The river basin spreads across 5 states. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 3 only 1, 2 and 3 None Q.5) Which among the following are part of major left-bank tributaries of river Ganga? Gomti Ghaghara Damodar Kosi Yamuna Choose the correct code from the following 3 and 5 1, 2 and 3 1, 2 and 4 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.6) Which of the statements given below is/are correct? National Ganga Council is under chairmanship of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. Empowered Task Force (ETF) on river Ganga under chairmanship of Hon’ble Union Minister of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. Choose the correct code from the following 1 only 2 only Both None Q.7) Consider the following statements India is a founder member of International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) India was formally admitted as member in Shanghai Cooperation Organisation last year Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 None MUST READ Drowning in dust The Hindu Focus on building trust The Hindu Between the elephant and the dragon The Hindu Five ways to double farmers' income Business Line