Jul 19, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

Daily Current Affairs IAS | UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 19th July 2019

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 19th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Centre had announced hike in surcharges paid by high net worth individuals Part of: GS Mains Paper III – Government Budgeting In News Centre had announced hike in surcharges paid by high net worth individuals. The increase in surcharges effectively increases the combined tax rate by 2% for those earning between Rs.2 crore and 5 crore and by 7% for those earning more than Rs 5 crore annually. The higher tax will only apply to individuals and FPIs registered as trusts, which are also treated as individuals. However, the FPIs that are registered as companies will not be affected. The decision to increase rates drew criticism that it would lead to outflow of foreign funds from India because there would be decreased income as they have to pay more taxes now. Do you know? Surcharge is an additional charge or tax levied on an existing tax. For Example: A surcharge of 10% on a tax rate of 30% effectively raises the combined tax burden to 33% Cess is also tax on tax. However, the difference is that Cess is levied temporarily for a specific purpose. Once the purpose has been fulfilled, cess is no longer levied. However, surcharges are general and permanent in nature. The revenue earned via surcharge is solely retained by the Centre and, unlike other tax revenues, is not shared with States. The proceeds of surcharges flow into Consolidated Fund of India. Surcharges, in India, are used to make the taxation system more ‘progressive’ (average tax rate increases as the income increases) as they are generally levied on wealthy individuals and companies. Foreign Portfolio Investments are those investments which hold less than 10% in a company, beyond which it is regarded as FDI (Foreign Direct Investment). FPI hold a short term view on the company and generally participate through the stock markets and gets in and out of a particular stock at much faster frequencies. They are volatile in nature. The authority monitoring the guidelines for FPI regulation is the Securities and Exchange Board of India. Misuse of Money Bills Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Parliament and State legislatures—structure, functioning, conduct of business, powers and privileges and issues arising out of these. In News: The opposition has charged that the 2019 finance bill had provisions to amend a number of laws including the Benami, SEBI and PMLA Acts and that these amendments to laws were not related to finance but brought as part of financial bill to avoid proper scrutiny. Types of Bills Constitution Amendment Bills: These are Bills which seek to amend the Constitution. Money Bills: A Bill is said to be a Money Bill if it only contains provisions related to taxation, borrowing of money by the government, expenditure from or receipt to the Consolidated Fund of India. Article 110 deals with Money bills. Do you know? Money bill can only be introduced only in Lok Sabha with prior recommendation of the President and must be passed by simple majority. Rajya Sabha can only recommend changes to the bill, which Lok Sabha may reject if it chooses to. If such recommendations are not given within 14 days, it will have deemed to be passed by Parliament Who decides if a Bill is a Money Bill? The Speaker certifies a Bill as a Money Bill, and the Speaker’s decision is final. Financial Bills: A Bill that contains some provisions related to taxation and expenditure, and additionally contains provisions related to any other matter is called a Financial Bill. Article 117 deals with Financial bills. There are two categories of Financial bills under Article 117 Article 117(i) – Can only be introduced in Lok Sabha with prior recommendation of President. Rajya Sabha can reject or modify it Article 117(iii) – Can be introduced both in Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha with prior recommendation of the President. Rajya Sabha can reject or modify it. Ordinary Bills: All other Bills are called ordinary bills. This can be introduced in either of the Houses of Parliament. No prior recommendation of President is required and requires simple majority to pass the bill Man-made highlands come to rescue of animals during floods Part of: Main GS Paper III - Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment; Disaster management In News: During monsoon season, Brahmaputra rivers overflows and floods the adjacent regions including the Kaziranga National Park. As a result, most of the animals seek safe places during these floods. In order to keep animals above the water level, forest department has constructed highlands which were designed scientifically with provision of adequate grass and plants yielding fruits. These islands have turned into islands of relative safety whereby animals move to such highlands during floods. This has prevented huge loss to wildlife and sustenance of Kaziranga ecosystem. Do you know? Floods are considered as necessary evil in Kaziranga, which comprises mix of wetlands, grasslands and forests. The flood water flushes out the aquatic plants and weeds that choke its ecosystem. Kaziranga National Park is known for being the residence of 'Big Five' animals, ie, Great Indian One horned Rhinoceros, Indian Elephant, Royal Bengal Tiger, Eastern Swamp Deer and Wild Water Buffalo. Structural reforms in Agriculture Part of: Main GS Paper III – transport and marketing of agricultural produce and issues and related constraints; e-technology in the aid of farmers In news: CM’s panel tasked with recommending sweeping reforms in the agriculture sector has suggested the following measures at the recently held NITI Aayog meet: Scrapping of the Essential Commodities Act for the food sector Review of agricultural subsidies (The total outlay on fertilizer subsidy alone is around 70,000 crore rupees in 2018-19) Dismantling of market monopolies (which ensures that farmer’s bargaining power increases fetching him more price for his produce) Steps to increase private investment and investment credit in the sector (through tax benefits and subsidised credit). This will enhance private sector’s participation in supply chain infrastructure thereby reducing wastages and leakages in the process. Obstacles to the implementation of the digital e-NAM system to be removed. Do you know? National Agriculture Market (eNAM) is a pan-India electronic trading portal which networks the existing APMC mandis to create a unified national market for agricultural commodities. More Information about Essential Commodities Act The ECA was enacted way back in 1955. It has since been used by the Government to regulate the production, supply and distribution of a whole host of commodities it declares ‘essential’ in order to make them available to consumers at fair prices. The list of items under the Act include drugs, fertilisers, pulses and edible oils, and petroleum and petroleum products. Here’s how it works: If the Centre finds that a certain commodity is in short supply and its price is spiking, it can notify stock-holding limits on it for a specified period. Anybody trading or dealing in a commodity , be it wholesalers, retailers or even importers are prevented from stockpiling it beyond a certain quantity. It thus empowers authorities to crack down on hoarders and black-marketeers of such commodities during crisis period. The ECA gives consumers protection against irrational spikes in prices of essential commodities. Miscellaneous Gender Equality Part of: Main GS Paper I – Role of women and women’s organization In News Presently women officers cannot be posted immediately on board ships as there are no separate facilities. In order to induct more women into services, Navy has recently issued tender for cadet training ships which has facilities catered for women This initiative will go a long way in increasing women participation in Navy who presently constitute only 6.7% of the Navy officers National Parks in news: Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh and Bandipur wildlife sanctuary in Karnataka India is spending 1300 Crore rupees to build 9 kilometres underpass on National Highway passing through Pench National Park in Madhya Pradesh to provide safe passage for wildlife (especially Tigers) in the region. Similar demand is being made to build underpass on the National Highway between Mysuru and Waynad to protect tigers in Bandipur wildlife sanctuary. Concerns In a developing country like India with limited resources and nearly 23% of our population living below poverty line, we need to balance our developmental needs with our responsibility to protect the ecology. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests India and the World ; India and its neighbourhood- relations. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests, Indian diaspora Important International institutions, agencies and fora- their structure, mandate Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) report to Xinjiang on Uighurs  Context: The below article deals with OIC record on China’s Xinjiang province, which is in the news on account of alleged violations of human rights and curbs on religious freedom of Uighurs and other Muslim ethnic groups. A Human Rights Watch report issued in September 2018 had also criticised Beijing’s policies in Xinjiang. About OIC The OIC, represents 57 member states and a population of about 1.8 billion people. It is the world’s second-largest intergovernmental organisation after the UN It is committed to protect the interests of the Muslim world. It routinely expresses solidarity with Palestine, Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria and Bosnia, as well as with the peoples of the Turkish Cypriot state, Kosovo and Jammu and Kashmir Who are Uighurs? The Uighurs are a minority Turkic ethnic group originating from and culturally affiliated with the general region of Central and East Asia. The Uighurs have been recognized as native to only one region, the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of the People's Republic of China Indian and OIC: India became the ‘Guest of Honour’ at the 46th session of the Council of Foreign Ministers of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) held in Abu Dhabi in March. The final declaration ignored the customary reference to Jammu and Kashmir. Reasons for the ignorance The strong personal and state-to-state ties built by the Indian government with important OIC states, especially the UAE. However, one of the resolutions did refer to Kashmir and expressed concern at the situation of Muslims in India. OIC’s report on China’s Xinjiang province: The main Abu Dhabi declaration, like the Dhaka Declaration, made no reference to China or its Muslim minorities. It is fascinating to come across the resolution passed at Abu Dhabi which chose to commend the efforts of the People’s Republic of China in providing care to its Muslim citizens. China has defended its policies and claimed that it’s so-called ‘internment camps’ are actually vocational centres meant to “to educate and save the local people of Xinjiang who were influenced by religious extremism”. Reasons for favouring China: China is a major power It is a permanent member of the UN Security Council It has a large market for hydrocarbons and a source of arms and investment Moreover, China refrains from preaching to others about human rights or systems of governance. As China’s continued import of oil from Iran suggests, countries under U.S. pressure and sanctions often turn to China for relief. In return, they do their best to guard China’s interests at the OIC. Do you know? Recently Pakistan’s Minister for Religious Affairs urged China to lift restrictions on Muslims in Xinjiang. Pakistan chief raised concerns about the Uighur issue with the Chinese Ambassador that has cone has deep embarrassment to the OIC. Connecting the dots: What is Organisation of Islamic Cooperation? Discuss its objectives and also discuss the significance of OIC’s first-time invitation to India. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about Foreign Portfolio Investment (FPI): Returns in FPI are in the form of dividends and interest payments Investment through FPI entails control of the management of the company FPI is the passive holding of securities and other financial assets by a foreign firm Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 2 and 3 only 1 and 3 only All of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements: Kaziranga National park is a Ramsar site. Kaziranga National Park is a 117-year-old park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) Rajya Sabha has equivalent powers as that of Lok Sabha with respect to which of the bills Ordinary Bills Money Bills Financial Bills Constitutional Amendment Bills Select the correct answer using the codes given below : 1 and 3 only 1,3 and 4 only 1 and 4 only 1,2,3 and 4 Q.4) Consider the following statements Proceeds from cess and surcharges form a divisible pool of Central resources. Only Centre can levy cess Which of the following statements is/are not correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ The threat of Ebola The Hindu Does the anti-defection law serve any purpose? The Hindu  Surely, 50 years is a good time to review bank nationalisation Indian Express  An AI innovation engine for New India Financial Express  An Ayushman Bharat database is a good step Financial Express

Jul 19, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 30

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 30 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)’ It has a membership of governmental and non-governmental organizations. It works on the basis of four-year programs, determined by the membership. It runs field projects for habitat and species conservation around the world. Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Doklam’ It is strategically located at the tri-junction of Pakistan, Afghanistan and China Hunza Valley is located in this region bordering with the Wakhan Corridor 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 ‘Ebola’ It spreads through direct contact with body fluids It is a viral haemorrhagic fever of humans and other primates Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Deeksharambh’ It targets Higher Education Institutions for mentoring with a specific focus on quality as enumerated in the UGC “Quality Mandate”. It is a Student Induction Programme to help new students adjust and feel comfortable in the new environment, inculcate in them the ethos and culture of the institution. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) ‘Mauritania’ is NOT bordered by Senegal Mali Algeria Nigeria To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Jul 18, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 18th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Kulbhushan Jadhav case and ICJ ruling Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – India and its neighbourhood- relations; India and Pakistan relations In news: The International Court of Justice ruled that Pakistan should “review and reconsider” Kulbhushan Jadhav’s conviction and death sentence. ICJ also ruled that Pakistan should give the Indian government consular access to Kulbhushan Jadhav. Do you know? Jadhav, a retired Indian Navy officer, was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on charges of “espionage and terrorism” after a closed trial in April 2017. His sentencing evoked a sharp reaction in India. India moved the ICJ in the same year for the “egregious violation” of the provisions of the Vienna Convention by Pakistan by repeatedly denying New Delhi consular access to the 48-year-old Indian national. Important Value Additions: ICJ is the “principled judicial organ of the United Nations” (ICJ, 1945), and is based at the Hague in the Netherlands. Statute of the International Court of Justice, which is an integral part of the United Nations Charter established the ICJ. The ICJ is made up of 15 jurists from different countries (elected to nine-year terms by Permanent members of the UNSC) and no two judges at any given time may be from the same country. The court’s composition is static but generally includes jurists from a variety of cultures. The function of the ICJ is to resolve disputes between sovereign states. Karnataka crisis: What’s a ‘whip’, and what does it do? Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Indian Polity; Parliament - Whip In news: Amid a looming trust vote in the Karnataka Assembly, former chief minister Siddaramaiah appealed to postpone the motion of confidence as the Supreme Court’s decision did not shed light on his rights to issue a whip. What is a whip? A whip in parliamentary parlance is a written order that party members be present for an important vote, or that they vote only in a particular way. The term is derived from the old British practice of “whipping in” lawmakers to follow the party line. In India all parties can issue a whip to their members. Parties appoint a senior member from among their House contingents to issue whips — this member is called a Chief Whip, and he/she is assisted by additional Whips. Do you know? The office of ‘whip’, on the other hand, is mentioned neither in the Constitution of India nor in the Rules of the House nor in a Parliamentary Statute. It is based on the conventions of the parliamentary government. Every political party, whether ruling or Opposition has its own whip in the Parliament. He is appointed by the political party to serve as an assistant floor leader. He is charged with the responsibility of ensuring the attendance of his party members in large numbers and securing their support in favour of or against a particular issue. He regulates and monitors their behaviour in the Parliament. The members are supposed to follow the directives given by the whip. Otherwise, disciplinary action can be taken. Kinds of whips A whip can be classified into three types, based on the number of times it has been underlined. One-line whip A one-line whip, which is underlined once, is issued by the party to inform its members of an important vote in the pipeline, so that a quorum can be established. (A quorum is the minimum number of legislators that need to be present do that a vote can be held.) A one-line whip allows the legislators to abstain from voting if they decide to go against the party line. However, they cannot, under any circumstance, vote against the party. Two-line whip A two-line whip, which is underlined twice, demands that party members be present in the House at the time of voting. Abstention from voting, in this case, invites more scrutiny from party’s high command as compared to a one-line whip. Three-line whip A three-line whip, which is underlined thrice, is the gravest of the whips. This places the party members under an obligation to toe the party line and is usually employed when critical bills are tabled in the House or during a motion of no-confidence. What happens if a legislator does not follow the whip? Defying a three-line whip can not only lead to expulsion of the member from the party, but also risk his/her membership in the House. Under the Tenth Schedule of the Constitution of India, the Speaker of the House can disqualify a member who goes against the party line under the anti-defection law. The only exception is when more than one-third members decide to vote against the directive. Bimal Jalan committee on RBI’s economic capital framework (ECF) Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy and issues related to it; RBI In news: Bimal Jalan panel was formed to address the issue of RBI reserves, one of the sticking points between the central bank and the government. The expert panel to suggest how the central bank should handle its reserves and whether it can transfer its surplus to the government. Jalan panel to submit its report soon. Issue: The government has been insisting that the central bank hand over its surplus reserves amid a shortfall in revenue collections. Access to the funds will allow finance minister to meet deficit targets, infuse capital into weak banks to boost lending and fund welfare programmes. Therefore, the Jalan panel was set up to decide whether RBI is holding provisions, reserves and buffers in surplus of the required levels. Ebola outbreak a global health emergency: WHO In news: World Health Organization declared the Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo a public health emergency of international concern. About Ebola Ebola virus disease (EVD), formerly known as Ebola haemorrhagic fever, is a severe, often fatal illness in humans. The Ebola virus is transmitted to people from wild animals and spreads in the human population through human-to-human transmission. The Ebola virus causes an acute, serious illness which is often fatal if untreated. There are currently no licensed Ebola vaccines but 2 potential candidates are undergoing evaluation. Dam Safety Bill Part of: GS Mains II and III – Government schemes and policies; Disaster Management In news: The Centre is set to introduce the Dam Safety Bill, 2019. The Bill aims to put in place a systematic procedure to ensure that India’s 5,600 dams are made and maintained safely. The Bill provides for establishment of a National Dam Safety Authority as a regulatory body to implement the policy. The Bill lays the onus of the dam safety on the dam owner and provides for penal provisions for wilful “commission and omission of certain acts.” National Medical Commission Bill Part of: GS Mains II – Health sector; Education reforms; Government schemes and policies In news: Centre plans to introduce the National Medical Commission Bill (NMC Bill) and repeal the Indian Medical Council Act, 1956. NMC Bill was first introduced in Parliament in December 2017 and had provoked widespread protests over a proposal for bridge courses to allow AYUSH practitioners to prescribe allopathic medicines. However, the 2017 bill lapsed with the dissolution of the 16th Lok Sabha. The current Bill proposes to convert the final year MBBS examination into a licentiate exam, which will be a requirement for doctors to practise medicine. The examination, to be called the National Exit Test (NEXT), will also be used for entrance into post-graduate medical courses, and act as a screening test for foreign medical graduates. Miscellaneous Person in news: Hafiz Saeed In news: Pakistan recently arrested Hafiz Saeed, the alleged mastermind of the 2008 Mumbai terror attack that killed 166 people. Hafiz Saeed has been declared a global terrorist by the U.S. and the UN He is currently held in terror financing case. Dibang Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh In news: Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved the ₹1,600-crore pre-investment expenditure for the Dibang Multipurpose Project in Arunachal Pradesh, India’s largest hydropower project. Dibang River is a tributary of the Brahmaputra that originated and flows through the Mishmi Hills & northeast India from the state of Arunachal Pradesh. (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2 Role of UNSC; International organization International Relations India and the World India’s agenda as an UNSC member Context: India secured UNSC non-permanent membership for 2021-22 with support from Asia-Pacific group including Pakistan and China. Each year the 193-member UN General Assembly (UNGA) elects five non-permanent members for a two-year term at the high-table. India has been at the forefront of the years-long effort to reform the security council saying it rightly deserves a place as a permanent member of the council, which, in its current form, does not represent the geopolitical realities of the 21st Century. Concerns: Currently, the world is in a greater state of disorder than at any time since the end of World War II. Fear, populism, polarisation, and ultra-nationalism have become the basis of politics in many countries. The benign and supportive international system that followed the Cold War has disappeared. India finds itself in a troubled region between West and East Asia - a region with insurgencies, terrorism, human and narcotics trafficking, and great power rivalries (ranging from turmoil in Gulf, Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (Daesh), Iraq and Syria issue to Afghanistan’s peace process). India also faces issues in Asia such as strategic mistrust or misperception, unresolved borders and territorial disputes, the absence of a pan-Asia security architecture, and competition over energy and strategic minerals. Role of UNSC: Prime function of the UNSC should be to maintain international peace and security. It should also focus on shared goals, especially international social and economic cooperation. Try to bring coordination between 193 sovereign member nations. To this end, the permanent members (P-5) as also other UN members must consider it worth their while to reform the Council. What should India aim to do? Studies and reports predict that – by 2050, China will be the world’s number one economic power, followed by India.  UNSC permanent seat will come India’s way more by invitation and less by self-canvassing. As a non-permanent member of UNSC, India’s objectives should be – to help build a stable and secure external environment to promote regional and global security to promote growth and its own people’s prosperity to promote a rule-based world order to emerge as a partner of choice for developing and developed countries alike India must leverage this latest opportunity to project itself as a responsible nation. Agenda as a member of UNSC Increase financial contribution India will have to increase its financial contribution, as the apportionment of UN expenses for each of the P-5 countries is significantly larger than that for India. Although India has been a leading provider of peacekeepers, its assessed contribution to UN peacekeeping operations is minuscule. Provide effective leadership At a time when there is a deficit of international leadership on global issues, especially on security, migrant movement, poverty, and climate change, India has an opportunity to promote well-balanced, common solutions. Responsibility to Protect India must help guide the Council away from the perils of invoking the principles of humanitarian interventionism or ‘Responsibility to Protect’. Work towards rules-based global order Given the fragile and complex international system, which can become even more unpredictable and conflictual, India should work towards a rules-based global order. Sustainable development and promoting peoples’ welfare should become its new drivers. Ensure sanctions India should push to ensure that the UNSC Sanctions Committee targets all those individuals and entities warranting sanctions. Rational internationalism Having good relations with all the great powers, India must lead the way by pursuing inclusion, the rule of law, constitutionalism, and rational internationalism. India should once again become a consensus-builder, instead of the outlier it has progressively become. It should find a harmonised response for dealing with global problems of climate change, disarmament, terrorism, trade, and development. Conclusion: A rules-based international order helps rather than hinders India. India will be a rich country in the future and will acquire greater military muscle, but its people will remain relatively poor. India is a great nation, but not a great power. India cannot stride the global stage with confidence in the absence of stable relations with its neighbours. Besides whatever else is done within the UN and the UNSC, India must lift its game in South Asia and its larger neighbourhood. India must prepare for this contingency, but, at the same time, it must champion a return to the older rules-based global order. Connecting the dots: What do you understand by the term or concept – “Rules-Based International Order”? Also discuss the challenges to the rules-based international order and its impact on India. India is a great nation, but not a great power. Do you agree? Elucidate your opinion. Does the composition and rights in the Security Council represent 21st century world dynamics? Critically examine. Why is the permanent membership in UNSC so important for India? Do you think India’s claim to permanent membership is valid? Elucidate. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about ‘International Court of Justice (ICJ)’ Statute of the International Court of Justice, which is an integral part of the United Nations Charter established the ICJ It is composed of fifteen judges elected to nine-year terms by Permanent members of the UNSC Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) The office of the ‘Whip’ is mentioned in: Constitution of India Rules of the House In a separate Parliamentary Statute None Q.3) Based on the conventions of Parliamentary government, we have an office of ‘Whip’ in Indian parliament. Every political party has its own whip. What is the function of a ‘whip’? He is responsible for ensuring the attendance of his political party members. He decides the agenda of his party on the floor of the parliament. He ensures the support of his party members in favour or against a particular issue. Select the code from following: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.4) Zoonoses are infectious diseases of animals (usually vertebrates) that can naturally be transmitted to humans. Which of the following are zoonoses? Ebola virus disease Bird flu Swine influenza Zika fever Select the correct answer using the codes given below: 1, 2 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 2, 3 and 4 only All the above MUST READ Takeaways from the Kulbhushan Jadhav case ruling The Hindu The benefits of blockchain The Hindu New Education Policy will ensure our higher education system remains a client of global science Indian Express Testing the waters: Mention of Blue Economy in budget must serve as an impetus for the sector Indian Express  Scientists create Ramanujan Machine: what’s it for, why name it after him? Indian Express

Jul 18, 2019 AIR

All India Radio (AIR) IAS UPSC - Health Scenario in Bihar

Health Scenario in Bihar ARCHIVES Search 18th June, 2019 Spotlight here: http://www.newsonair.com/Main_Audio_Bulletins_Search.aspx  TOPIC: General studies 2 Welfare schemes for vulnerable sections of the population by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes General studies 3 Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health In News: Children in Bihar's Muzaffarpur and adjoining districts have been plagued with Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) which has resulted in loss of lives. The rising death toll of children in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur district not only points to a health crisis, but also the crippling healthcare infrastructure in the state. Numbers indicating the sorry state According to the latest data available with the ministry of health and family welfare, about 79.5% of the 1,719 villages in Muzaffarpur district do not have a public healthcare facility. There are only 630 public healthcare facilities in Muzaffarpur.  According to the census of 2011, Bihar is the third most populous state in India, with around 40% of its population below the poverty line.  The major health and demographic indicators of the state, such as infant mortality rate, maternal mortality ratio, and total fertility rate, are substantially higher than the all-India average, and reflect the poor health status of the people.  The state has a shortage of 1,210 sub-centres, 131 primary health centres (PHCs), and 389 community health centres (CHCs). So far, 167 children have died in Bihar, with Muzaffarpur recording 117 deaths. Other districts include Vaishali (19), Motihari (12), Begusarai (8), Samastipur (8), and one each in Arrah, Sheohar and Purnia. Three issues emerge out of these concurrent flare-ups.  First, despite this region being endemic to brain fever, there is a dearth of reliable research-based evidence on what kills so many children each year.  Secondly, the serious lack of health infrastructure in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh makes handling of such outbreaks and disease epidemics more challenging. Thirdly, the Centre issued Rs 88.5 crore to the Bihar state government in the last fiscal year to strengthen its public health system. Astonishingly, the state government spent less than one-third of it. The confusion over what has killed over 100 children in Bihar is a symptom of the gangrenous rot in public healthcare in India. While even doctors are casually bandying about the term Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) to talk about the disease that has repeatedly struck one of the poorest regions in the country, the fact is untrained health workers may use the term AES to talk about an undiagnosed brain disease which manifests symptoms like convulsions, loss of consciousness, etc. But when doctors use the phrase after a 100 deaths, it is a worrying sign—the doctors themselves are not sure of what they are dealing with. While experts agree that a host of diseases and ingestion of certain toxins exhibit the symptoms seen in the current outbreak in Bihar, the fact that over 300 children have been hospitalised should have immediately pointed at lines of investigation to ascertain cause. Instead, there is confusion, with senior doctors at one of the major treatment hospitals in Bihar calling it a case of heat-wave related morbidity while a set of researchers who studied past outbreaks in the region believe it to be litchi-toxicity related critical hypoglycemia. Irrespective of whether a biological agent or malnutrition is to blame, Bihar’s poor track record in ensuring that the poorest have access to adequate nutrition and distrust in the public health care system are major causes for the deaths. The Numbers are Unsettling Malnutrition: There is enough evidence to show that malnourished children are more prone to the infection. In Bihar, 48 percent of the children are stunted, 20.8 percent are wasted and 44 percent children are underweight. For Uttar Pradesh, these numbers stand at 46 percent, 18 percent and 39.5 percent, respectively. More than 63 percent children in both the states are anaemic. Only 25 percent households in Bihar and 35 percent in Uttar Pradesh have access to sanitation facilities. Healthcare Resources: In terms of healthcare resources, each doctor in Bihar serves an average population of 28,391, and in Uttar Pradesh, the average is about 20,000 per doctor. To put this in context, each doctor in Tamil Nadu serves about 9,544 people. Bihar has one hospital bed per 8,645 people and Uttar Pradesh has 2,904 people per bed. Tamil Nadu has 899 people per bed. Total Expenditure on Health: Despite such skewed numbers, only 3.94 percent of Bihar's total expenditure is for health, the second lowest after Haryana. The Way Forward A greater push is needed for supporting the development of dedicated public health cadres in States. Whether it is combating a Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala or preventing the death of children due to the Acute Encephalitis Syndrome in Bihar, a strong public health system is crucial. In fact, in a rapidly urbanising and densely populated India, the risk of disease outbreaks and spreading of contagion is much higher. Prevention and efficient disease management is the key to reducing the bulging patient load. A key enabler for implementing these reforms and programmes is an increase in government health expenditure to at least 2.5 per cent of GDP by, if not before, 2025. State governments also have a key role to play in ensuring that they spend at least 8 per cent of their budget on the health sector. At a time when public health in India languishes amidst shortages of doctors and inadequate infrastructure and government spending remains low, it is important to recognise the Bihar child deaths as a preventable tragedy. With this in mind, state governments failing to make the most of what is accorded to them for public health, must be held to account. We must make the recent deaths in Bihar a turning point for prioritising public health in India! Note: Encephalopathy (Brain disease) The early morning onset and frequent finding of low blood glucose level (hypoglycaemia) point to a biochemical disease related to glucose metabolism.  Several hours after food intake (early morning) is when the body tends to develop hypoglycaemia. In addition, there is brain swelling caused by toxic damage to brain cells — encephalopathy, specifically, “hypoglycaemic encephalopathy”.  If the fasting interval is longer than 6-7 hours, because some children were not given a night meal, the situation becomes more severe. Malnourished children do not have glucose reserves in the liver, which makes matters worse. Moreover, many children were referred to Muzaffarpur medical college, and the long delay in reaching there resulted in many deaths. Prevention is simple, as is treatment. Source: https://d39gegkjaqduz9.cloudfront.net/TH/2018/08/08/DEL/Delhi/TH/5_07/ac7e44e3_2304601_101_mr.jpg  Must Read: Enhancing the Health Infrastructure of the Country

Jul 18, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 29

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 29 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Trade Infrastructure for Export Scheme (TIES)’ It assists Central and State Government Agencies for creation of appropriate infrastructure for growth of exports from the States. It provides financial assistance in the form of grant-in-aid to Central/State Government owned agencies for setting up or for up-gradation of export infrastructure Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘‘Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojana’ The scheme provides relief in case the Insured Person (IP) is rendered unemployed It is launched by Employees' State Insurance Corporation Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) ‘Kihoto Hollohan case’ is associated with which of the following schedules of the Indian Constitution? Tenth Schedule Fourth Schedule Eighth Schedule Sixth Schedule Q.4) Which of the following pairs are correctly matched? NavIC – India GLONASS - Russia BeiDou – Japan Select the correct code: 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.5) ‘Ploonets’ refers to Moon Comets Lakes created by a meteor impact Trans-Neptunian Objects To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Jul 17, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

IAS UPSC Prelims and Mains Exam – 17th July 2019 Archives (PRELIMS + MAINS FOCUS) Pakistan opens its airspace after 6 months Part of : Mains GS paper II - India and its neighbourhood- relations In news :  Pakistan reopened its airspace for all flights early  after a gap of six months  Pakistan shut its airspace in February after India carried out an air strike against what it said was a terrorist training camp in Pakistani territory. How does the curb affect India?  Airlines had to take a longer route to their destinations and burn more fuel,  stop midway for refuelling Roster more pilots and cabin crew as their duty hours are regulated. An increase in fuel expenses, which constitute 40% of an airline’s operational costs Advantage of lifting the curb on airspace The move will benefit Indian carriers as well as the airlines that enter or exit Pakistan from its eastern border with India. Flights between Delhi and the west will see travel times drop by up to four hours Close polluting units in critical areas: NGT Part of: Prelims and Mains GS paper III - Environmental pollution and degradation In news:  National Green Tribunal (NGT) has directed the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) to shut down all polluting industries in “critically polluted” and “severely polluted” areas within three months. It also directed all States and Union Territories to furnish a report on the amount of biomedical waste generated and asked them to set up common treatment and disposal facilities, if not done yet. Do you know? National Green Tribunal was established in 2010 under National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 to dispose of cases having environmental ramification.  Its headed by retired judge of supreme court or being chief justice of high court and almost 20 experts and 20 judicial members. Mandate of NGT To dispose of cases dealing with any environment law violation, conservation of forests and natural resources. Eg: The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 The Air (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974 The Environmental Protection Act ,1986 The Biological Diversity Act, 2002 etc. Indian forest act, 1927 and wildlife protection act, 1972 are out of purview from this jurisdiction. Powers: Recommend penalties and fine Recommend policies for environment protection Disposal of cases within 6 months Enforcement of any legal right relating to environment Giving relief and compensation for damages Has power of civil courts Significance Helps reduce burden on higher courts Faster resolution of cases Specialised member brings efficiency to justice Less expensive than courts Fulfils constitutional provision like article 21 i.e. right to clean environment and article 48(a) i.e. protection of environment and safeguarding of forests The rapid pace of development is harming the environment. The NGT provides a check and balance for this. It takes suo – moto cases like banning the crackers, directing states to speed up action to clean Ganga. All India Kisan Sabha (AIKS) demanded that the Centre scrap the Manual for Drought Management, 2016 Part of : Mains GS paper III - Agricultural produce and issues In news : Manual for Drought Management, 2016, had changed the way that droughts are declared and the circumstances under which Central help can be sought by affected States. Data: Data from the India Meteorological Department show over half the country’s land area still faces rainfall deficits of more than 20% this monsoon season.  Saurashtra and Kutch are the worst affected region, with a 60% deficit  Before 2016, it was considered a drought year in a particular area if there was deficient rainfall and the crop yield was less than 50% of the average of the previous 10 years. Manual for Drought Management, 2016 parameter States are required to assess conditions using five indicators: rainfall, agriculture, soil moisture, hydrology and crop health.  The Manual allows States to request for support from the National Disaster Response Fund if a drought is declared as “severe”. This can only happen if three impact indicators (apart from rainfall) fall into the “severe” category, These conditions are so stringent that an area may not be officially declared as facing a severe drought even while its farmers are suffering Centre, Assam move SC for sample re-verification of NRC Part of : Mains GS paper II - Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. In news :  The Centre and the State of Assam  made an urgent mention before the Chief Justice of India for an extension of the deadline for final publication of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) for the State from July 31, 2019 to a “future date”. Why? To conduct a “sample re-verification process” in relation to names included in the draft NRC published on July 30, 2018. Background: The first draft of the updated National Register of Citizens (NRC) of Assam has been published recently by the Office of the State Coordinator of NRC on December 31, 2017. The objective behind updating and publishing the 1951 NRC is to compile a list of the names of genuine Indian citizens residing in Assam and, in the process, detect foreigners (read Bangladeshis) who may have illegally entered the state after March 24, 1971. The publication of the initial NRC list is the outcome of a long-standing demand of the Assamese people to detect and deport illegal Bangladeshi migrants from their state. The Assam Accord of 1985 did not contain any specific mention of updating the NRC. The Government of India constituted a number of Tribunals and Appellate Courts under both the Illegal Migrants (Determination by Tribunals) Act of 1983 and the Foreigners Tribunal Act of 1964 to detect illegal Bangladeshis. In May 2005 that the first step towards updating the NRC of 1951 was taken, when a tripartite meeting between the Centre, the Assam government and AASU was held to review the progress made in the implementation of the Assam Accord. Successive governments have been extremely reluctant to update the NRC of 1951 due to various political considerations and vested interests. Supreme Court ordered the Union and State governments to begin the process of updating of the NRC in Assam. Accordingly, the Ministry of Home Affairs, issued the notification for starting the work of updating the NRC. The Supreme Court constituted a Committee “to take care of any clarification that would be required with regard to the modalities in the preparation of the NRC.” (MAINS FOCUS) ENVIRONMENT TOPIC: General studies 3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation Impact of Climate Change and Global Warming Reducing Carbon emissions from road transport Introduction: Congested streets and polluted air are common experiences in India’s metropolises. Delhi tops the charts and emissions are more than twice as high as other Indian megacities, such as Mumbai, Bengaluru or Ahmedabad. India’s road transport emissions are small in global comparison but is increasing exponentially. The Global Carbon Project reports that India’s carbon emissions are rising more than two times as fast as the global rise in 2018. Reducing CO2 emissions of road transport leverages multiple co-benefits, for example, improving air quality and increasing physical activity, which are critical for well-being, particularly in urban areas. Factors: Climate action requires an understanding of how emissions vary with spatial context. Income and urbanisation are the key determinants of travel distance and travel mode choice and, therefore, commuting emissions.  The way cities are built and the design of public transit are critical for low-carbon mobility systems.  Average per capita commuting emissions are highest for the most affluent districts, which are predominantly urban, and that heavily use four-wheelers for commuting. In contrast, average per capita commuting emissions are lowest for Indian districts that are poor, and commuting distances are short and rarely use three-wheelers. Way ahead: Focusing on well-being: Mayors and town planners should organise cities around public transport and cycling, thereby improving mobility for many, while limiting car use. Uptake of non-motorised transport emerges as a sweet spot of sustainable development, resulting in both lower emissions and better public health in cities. According to the recent National Family Health Survey (2015-16), nearly 30% of all men are overweight or obese in southwest Delhi, but only 25% in Thiruvananthapuram and 13% in Allahabad. These data correlate with high reliance of car use in Delhi and low demand for walking. Increase in cycling will lower chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases, while also abating emissions. Car use, in contrast, correlates with higher rates of diabetes. Fuel price increases, congestion charges or parking management could be a strategy that improves the well-being of individuals living in urban areas. Technology transition: India should double down in its strategy to transition to electric two and three-wheelers. India is the third-largest market for automobiles and is one of the world’s largest producers and consumers in two- and three- wheelers and Indian companies can take a leading role in switching to electric vehicles. This will also help in transforming India’s vision of ‘Make in India’. City planning: Compact cities improve accessibility and reduce emissions from transport and even the building sector. Most Indian cities are already very dense, with few benefits expected by further high-rise. City managers should ensure that existing urban areas provide short routes and fast access to schools, hospitals and jobs, otherwise, residents would be required to travel long distances.  Conclusion: Providing access to public service, choosing rapid transit over car driving in cities and supporting the rise of electric two and three-wheelers will help drive India to a modern and low-carbon transport system fit for the 21st century. Connecting the dots: Reducing CO2 emissions of road transport leverages multiple co-benefits, for example, improving air quality and increasing physical activity, which are critical for well-being, particularly in urban areas. Comment. NATIONAL TOPIC: General studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation General studies 3: Indian agriculture Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM) Introduction: Earlier this year, the Cabinet approved the Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahabhiyan (KUSUM). With a Budget allocation of Rs. 34,000 crore, and a similar contribution expected from the States, KUSUM aims to provide energy sufficiency and sustainable irrigation access to farmers. It is also essential to achieve the country's 100 GW solar target by 2022. Present situation: At present, despite burgeoning farm power subsidies, nearly 30 million farmers, especially marginal landholders, use expensive diesel for their irrigation needs as they have no access to electricity.  More than half of India’s net sown-area remains unirrigated.  Three components of the scheme: 10,000 MW of de-centralised ground- mounted grid-connected renewable power plants.  Installation of 17.50 lakh standalone solar powered agricultural pumps. Solarisation of 10 lakh grid-connected solar-powered agricultural pumps Way ahead: Addressing inequity between States: KUSUM should aim to reduce the existing disparity among States with regard to solar pumps deployment and irrigation access. Chhattisgarh and Rajasthan together account for about half of the two lakh solar pumps currently deployed in the country. On the other hand, States such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal, where penetration of diesel pumps is among the highest, have not managed to deploy any significant number of solar pumps. This disparity highlights poor State budget allocation towards solar pumps and the lack of initiative by State nodal agencies. To encourage more equitable deployment of 17.5 lakh off-grid pumps by 2022, the Centre should incentivise States through target-linked financial assistance, and create avenues for peer learning. Addressing inequity within a State: 90% of Bihar’s farmers are small and marginal. Yet, they have received only 50% of government subsidies on solar pumps. On the other hand, in Chhattisgarh, about 95% of beneficiaries are from socially disadvantaged groups due to the mandate of the State. Learning from these contrasting examples, a share of central financial assistance under KUSUM should be appropriated for farmers with small landholdings and belonging to socially disadvantaged groups. Addressing inequity between farmers: Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, KUSUM should provide greater financial assistance to smaller farmers. KUSUM proposes a 60% subsidy for the pumps, borne equally by the Centre and the States, and the remaining 40% will be the farmer’s contribution — 10% as down payment and 30% through loans. This unilateral financing approach will exacerbate the inter-farmer disparity given the inequity in access to credit and repayment capacity between small and large farmers. A higher capital subsidy support to small and marginal farmers and long-term loans with interest subsidies for large and medium farmers would be a more economical and equitable alternative. KUSUM should not woo a certain section of farmers with short-sighted objectives. Solarising existing grid-connected pumps, as proposed under the scheme, needs a complete rethink. Existing grid-connected farmers, who have enjoyed power subsidies for decades, would receive the same financial support as that received by an off-grid farmer. In addition, they would earn regular income from the DISCOM on feeding surplus electricity, furthering the inequitable distribution of taxpayers’ resources.  Solarising grid-connected pumps must include replacement of the pump. Poor efficiency levels of the existing pumps would mean unnecessary oversizing of the solar panels and lesser available energy to feed into the grid.  It is also essential that distribution companies pay fair rates to farmers for the electricity they purchase from their solar arrays. The scheme holds the potential of enabling farmers to become exporters of clean solar energy from importers of subsidized energy. Conclusion: If designed better and implemented effectively, KUSUM holds the potential to catapult the Indian irrigation economy from an era mired in perpetual subsidy, unreliable supply, and inequitable distribution of resources to a regime of affordable, reliable, and equitable access to energy and water. Connecting the dots: KUSUM could radically transform the irrigation economy if the government chooses an approach of equity by design and prudence over populism. Analyze. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Note:  Featured Comments and comments Up-voted by IASbaba are the “correct answers”. IASbaba App users – Team IASbaba will provide correct answers in comment section. Kindly refer to it and update your answers. Q.1) Consider the following statements about ‘Kaziranga National Park’ It has the largest population of the Wild water buffalo It has been identified as an Important Bird Area by Birdlife International It is a World Heritage Site Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 3 All of the above Q.2) Which of the following statements is/are correct about National Green Tribunal (NGT)? Establishment of NGT made National Environment Appellate Authority defunct. Mumbai is one of the place of sitting of Tribunal. Code: Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 None of the above Q.3) Which of the following statements is/are correct? All India Kisan Sabha (All India Peasants Union)was the name of the peasants front of the undivided Communist Party of India The Kisan Sabha movement started in Bihar Choose correct code: Only 1 Only 2 Both 1 and 2 None of the above MUST READ The many hurdles in providing citizenship The Hindu Tapping the potential of communities to end AIDS The Hindu The great dollar gamble Indian Express The escape from freedom Indian Express

Jul 17, 2019 Daily Prelims CA Quiz

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IAS Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 28

UPSC Quiz - 2020 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz Day 28 Archives Q.1) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Markandeshwar temple’ It belongs to the Svetambara sect of Jainism It is situated on the bank of River Wainganga Select the correct statement 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.2) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Bureau of Indian Standards’ It has been established as the National Standards Body of India under the BIS Act, 2016. The standards and certification scheme of BIS supports various public policies in areas of product safety, consumer protection, food safety, environment protection, building and construction, etc. Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.3) ‘Pink Bollworm’ primarily affects which of the following crops? Maize Paddy Wheat Cotton Q.4) Consider the following statements with respect to ‘Financial Action Task Force (FATF)’ It is an inter-governmental body It reviews money laundering and terrorist financing measures taken by countries Select the correct statements 1 Only 2 Only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.5) Broadband Readiness Index (BRI) for Indian States and UTs will be developed by NITI Aayog Department of Telecom Indian Council for Research on International Economic Relations (ICRIER) Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Select the correct statements 1 and 2 2 and 3 1 and 4 2 and 4 To Download the Solution - Click here All the Best  IASbaba

Jul 17, 2019 IASbaba's OFFLINE CLASSES

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

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

Jul 16, 2019 Topper's From IASbaba

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

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

Jul 16, 2019 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

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

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