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May 21, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 21st May 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 21st May 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Incorporating Artificial Intelligence in military Part of: Mains GS Paper III- Internal Security Key pointers: In an ambitious defence project, the government has started work on incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the operational preparedness of the armed forces in a significant way. It would include equipping them with unmanned tanks, vessels, aerial vehicles and robotic weaponry. A high-powered task force headed by Tata Sons chairman N. Chandrasekaran is finalising the specifics and framework of the project, which would be implemented in a “partnership model” between the armed forces and the private sector. The application of AI in border surveillance could significantly ease the pressure on armed forces personnel guarding the sensitive frontiers with China and Pakistan. The move comes amid rising Chinese investments in AI — an area of computer science devoted to creating intelligent machines — for its military. China has been pouring billions of dollars into AI research and machine learning. The U.S., Britain, France and the European Union are also investing significantly in AI. The U.S. has been carrying out successful operations targeting terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan and northwest Pakistan using drones which operate with the help of artificial intelligence. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL 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 by the Centre and States and the performance of these schemes; mechanisms, laws, institutions and bodies constituted for the protection and betterment of these vulnerable sections. The EU’s Data Protection Regulation: Lessons for India Introduction: The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is the latest new regulation to address the issue of data privacy. The GDPR adopts a rights-based, consent-driven approach towards protecting the data of natural persons. Key features of GDPR: The GDPR applies to any act of processing data. The scope of the term ‘processing’ is broad enough to cover any operation, from data collection to analysis, storage, transfer, erasure and others. The GDPR’s territorial applicability clause states that it can be applicable to you in one of three ways: An establishment in an EU member-state, one offering goods or services to natural persons in the EU and one monitoring the behaviour of natural persons in the EU. The GDPR is not merely applicable to entities which collect or order the collection of data from EU natural persons for their own purposes, but also places liabilities on people who process this data on behalf of controllers. The GDPR addresses the concerns related to the transfer of personal data to third countries or international organisations. In addition to providing for compensation to natural persons whose privacy rights are violated, the GDPR empowers EU statutory authorities to impose administrative fines of up to €20 million or 4 per cent of total group turnover of a company, and to impose bans on data processing. A new paradigm in global privacy regulation: Any person processing data, whether on their own or on someone else’s behalf, having any kind of ‘establishment’ in the EU, or offering goods or services to natural persons in the EU, or monitoring the behaviour of natural persons in the EU, is subject to the GDPR. It is this factor that sets the GDPR up to become a new paradigm in global privacy regulation. Indian rules: Under India’s existing data protection regime, the Information Technology Act, 2000 (the IT Act) has attempted to deal with data protection in a comprehensive manner. The manner in which the GDPR addresses data protection compliance is hard to compare to the approach taken by the IT-RS Rules. The IT-RS Rules commit a portion of a single provision to consent, requiring that consent be obtained in writing through electronic communication. The GDPR, in contrast, commits five detailed provisions to the essentiality of lawful consent for processing data, factors to determine whether consent was lawfully obtained, conditions for consent etc. The language of the GDPR indicates that consent is interwoven through most of its important provisions, making it a key foundation of GDPR compliance. There are certain aspects of the GDPR which are not reflected anywhere in the IT-RS, such as the adoption of a rights-based approach to data privacy. The GDPR makes it clear at the very outset that it protects the fundamental right to protection of data of natural persons. Future of data regulation in India: The GDPR is being adopted at a time where India is arguably at a cusp regarding data privacy. The August 2017 decision of the Supreme Court in Justice Puttusamy vs Union of India confirmed the existence of a fundamental right to privacy, recognised the concept of informational privacy and noted that legislation should be enacted to ensure enforceability against non-State actors (private entities). The Justice Srikrishna Committee, established to make recommendations for a proposed data protection legislation in India, released a white paper on Data Protection Framework in India which utilises much of the GDPR’s terminology and approach. Conclusion: A future data protection legislation in India should be set by the standards set by the GDPR. GDPR compliance may be considered an opportunity for Indian companies to achieve early compliance with a potential Indian data privacy legislation. Connecting the dots: The European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) is the latest new regulation to address the issue of data privacy. Discuss its key features. A future data protection legislation in India should be set by the standards set by the GDPR. Discuss. NATIONAL TOPIC:General studies 2: Structure, organization and functioning of the Judiciary Judicial reforms : Modernising Indian courts Introduction: The Indian judicial system suffers from case delay and the use of antiquated methods. The discourse on judicial reform remains focused on areas such as appointments and vacancies. Two areas that greatly affect court efficiency are: case listing practices and court infrastructure. Number of cases listed per day: It is not uncommon to see over 100 matters listed before a judge in a day. When a judge is pressed for time, not only does the quality of adjudication suffer but it also means that several cases will inevitably go unheard. Matters listed towards the end (usually cases near the final stage of hearing) tend to be left over at disproportionate rates and often end up getting stuck in the system. The uncertainty around which cases will come up for hearing means neither judges nor lawyers can plan their preparation. This situation compels lawyers to waste time waiting in court. Registry staff must manage the massive task of re-listing leftover matters in an already bulging docket, instead of streamlining case flow. There is a need to scientifically determine how many cases should be listed per day. Court infrastructure: Issues ranges from inadequate support staff for judges to the dearth of basic courtroom facilities. Without research and secretarial support, judges are unable to perform their functions in a timely manner. For instance, in a private interview, a judge said that even though he managed to hear close to 70 cases in a day, it took two days for the stenographers to finish typing the orders. A 2016 report published by the Supreme Court showed that existing infrastructure could accommodate only 15,540 judicial officers against the all-India sanctioned strength of 20,558. The lack of infrastructure also raises serious concerns about access to justice. A recent Vidhi study on district courts in the National Capital Region found that even basic needs such as drinking water, usable washrooms, seating and canteen facilities are often not available in court complexes. Solutions: Courts must become more open to applying management principles to optimise case movement and judicial time. In this, external support agencies competent in strategic thinking should be allowed to work with judicial officers to understand and help the institution function better. Judicial policymakers will also have to expand their reliance on empirical data There appears to be little quantitative evidence available to back judicial policies, from how long cases at various stages actually stay in the case pipeline to audits of judicial infrastructure. Recording and analysing appropriate court-related data is thus the first step in addressing any problem that plagues courts — from arriving at reasonable case listing limits to improving infrastructure. Court processes must be modernised, and the role of technology is critical. Courts have taken various initiatives over the years to digitise case records and filing; the case information system (CIS) 2.0 is currently being implemented across the country. But using technology in courts cannot remain limited to digitising records alone but must affect how cases actually move through the system. Initiatives such as CIS must be supplemented with file-tracking and knowledge management systems, to help courts achieve an optimal level of functioning. Conclusion: For courts in India to dispense speedy justice, there must be a change in leadership thought and the willingness to seek help where it is evidently required. Solutions for above challenges will require a fundamental shift in how courts are administered. Connecting the dots: A fundamental shift is required in the way courts are administered. Discuss. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) The N. Chandrasekaran committee is related to which of the following: Select the correct statements Data protection law in India To study Artificial intelligence in military 15th Finance Commission None of the above MUST READ Making sense of Wuhan reset The Hindu The smart cities project must promote diversity Livemint We must adapt to EU data privacy rules Business Line

May 21, 2018 Motivational Articles

Creative Guidance – Saying No – Inspirational & Educative Articles

Saying No: Somehow we don’t like the idea of saying no. The first emotion that swells up within us when we have to say no is guilt. Why is it? If you actually think about it, it is natural to say no most of the time if you are focused on what you are doing and don’t want to be disturbed by unnecessary interruptions and distractions. And yet, it doesn’t come naturally to tell now. Why is it? This is a part of our upbringing. As children we are told to obey our parents and elders all the time and hence naturally we grow up saying yes to pretty much everything. But as adults, saying yes to everything is one of the worst habits we can develop. This is one of the biggest reasons why you are distracted most of the time. In a way, each individual is living in his or her own reality, trying to move towards a life that they are aspiring for. And in almost everybody’s life you are simply one small part of their journey of life. You are never the most important person in anybody’s life. This is one of the harsh realities we have to come to accept as adults. Life is all about knowing what you are doing and how to move towards it. When you develop the habit of saying yes to everything, you simply become a part of somebody else’s life. You will be left with very little time for your own dreams and aspirations. This is where being too good is almost always detrimental to one’s progress. Of course as social beings we want to be useful to others and also want others to be useful to us, but trying to be too good all the time is never the right approach. Developing the ability to say ‘No’ without feeling any guilt and regret is one of the best habits one can develop. It frees us from the burden of having to constantly think about and worry about all the no’s we have said. Once we accept that saying ‘No’ is natural, it helps us to keep our human interacts simple and effective. Of course, just because we can say ‘No’, it doesn’t mean that we say it just for sake of saying it. But in most situations it is better to say ‘No’ than ‘Yes’. We go through different phases of our lives. Some phases require us to be very firm on our individual decisions and say ‘No’ to most others. It is extremely important to understand the phase of life you are in now and accordingly decide on your level of human interactions. In a phase that requires you to be focused, if you keep saying ‘Yes’ to anything and everything, then you will end up nowhere. We have to let go of this childhood conditioning of saying yes to everything to be able to keep our human interactions honest and beneficial. It is perfectly alright to say ‘No’ to anybody. As long as we don’t use the habit of saying ‘No’ just for the sake of being rude, it is perfectly alright to say ‘No’, even if required, most of the time. “The articles are a copyright of The Ahamo Movement and IASBABA.”

May 21, 2018

IASbaba’s 60 Day Plan- Prelims Test 2018 ENVIRONMENT & CURRENT AFFAIRS [Day 58]

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

May 19, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 19th May 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 19th May 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Zojila: Asia's longest bi-directional road tunnel Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Infrastructure Key pointers: Zoji La will provide all-weather connectivity between Ladakh and Kashmir. It is said to be Asia’s longest bi-directional tunnel Situated at an altitude of 11,578 feet on the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh National Highway The project, on completion, would lead to enormous boost in employment as local businesses will get linked to the national market and the beautiful region is able to receive round-the-year tourist traffic. It will also be of strategic value to the armed forces. Part of Bharatmala project The government has set an ambitious target of construction of 35,000 km of national highways in the next five years involving an investment of Rs 5,35,000 crore under Bharatmala. Speaker Pro Tem Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II – Indian Polity Key Pointers: As provided by the Constitution, the Speaker of the last Lok Sabha vacates his office immediately before the first meeting of the newly- elected Lok Sabha. Therefore, the President appoints a member of the Lok Sabha as the Speaker Pro Tem. Usually, the senior most member is selected for this. The President administers oath to the Speaker Pro Tem. The Speaker Pro Tem has all the powers of the Speaker. He presides over the first sitting of the newly-elected Lok Sabha. His main duty is to administer oath to the new members. He also enables the House to elect the new Speaker. When the new Speaker is elected by the House, the office of the Speaker Pro Tem ceases to exist. Hence, this office is a temporary office, existing for a few days. (MAINS FOCUS) ENVIRONMENT TOPIC: General Studies 2 and 3: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment Death by Slow Poisoning Introduction: An estimated 10 million people in nine districts of West Bengal drink arsenic-laden groundwater — a poisonous metalloid that sickens and kills with chronic exposure. The World Health Organisation’s (WHO) prescribed safe level is 10 mcg per litre. However, about 15 years ago, scientists discovered that the shallow groundwater in some places had high levels of the mineral: up to 1,000 micrograms (mcg) per litre in places. When such water is consumed for years, either directly or through the food chain, the mineral damages organs like the skin, kidneys and lungs. Symptoms: The most visible symptom in early years is a classic blotchy pattern on the skin, a condition called raindrop pigmentation. If people showing such pigmentation don’t switch to safer water, they develop hyperkeratosis — dark crusts on their palms and soles, which can get infected and make it painful to work. Eventually, the skin can turn cancerous. Simultaneously, arsenic can destroy the kidneys and liver tissue, cause conjunctivitis and affect the lungs, just as heavy smoking does. Mass poisoning West Bengal’s problem first attracted international attention in 1995 when researcher from the University of Colorado compared its scale with the Chernobyl disaster. But despite the grave warnings from international bodies like the WHO, the West Bengal government has moved very slowly to tackle the crisis. Even though multiple technologies to filter arsenic from groundwater are there, awareness of arsenic’s ill-effects remains low. People continue drinking toxic water, even when alternatives exist. Concerns: Poor awareness: Despite the availability of water treatment plant, several people continue drinking contaminated groundwater. Children are worst affected. Outwardly, the children seem symptom-free. Arsenic is a silent killer; it takes years for keratosis to show in adults and even longer in children. But there is extensive evidence that children are not immune to internal damage — their lungs, kidneys and other organs are slowly being ravaged. Studies also show that arsenic-exposed children have lower IQ compared to control groups. If they continue drinking this water, they will definitely develop keratosis. Government’s slow reaction: The government did appoint committees in 1983, ’88, ’92 and ’93 to examine the problem, but the findings didn’t trigger substantial action. Polluted wells not marked: After denial in the initial years came some questionable decisions by the government. Even though the State had tested 1,32,267 tube wells for contamination by 2007, the polluted wells weren’t marked. Instead, the government dug alternative tube wells in some spots and installed filters in some others. Do you know? Several experts, and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), advocated that unsafe tube wells immediately be painted red, so that people would avoid them. Toxic arsenic sludge from both community and household filters were sometimes disposed of unsafely, sent back into the environment, instead of being treated as per protocol. Studies have shown that the source of arsenic is in the Ganga delta. The process is thought to have begun between 18,000 and 6,000 years ago, when small Himalayan rock particles, coated with iron oxide, entered the Ganga river delta. Source of arsenic is the Ganga delta The Ganga delta was also home to swampy wetlands some 5,000 years ago. The organic matter from these wetlands is now decaying slowly, alongside the arsenic. When the bacteria responsible for this decay come in contact with the iron oxide in the arsenic-bearing rocks, they use the oxygen from the iron oxide for their own metabolism, setting both arsenic and iron free. This is why the groundwater in West Bengal and Bangladesh are rich in both minerals. Researchers agree that shallow tube wells, less than 150 meters deep, are the worst affected, because they contain arsenic-rich sediments from the Holocene era, when the arsenic arrived in the delta. Conversely, deep aquifers, more than 150 meters underground, are unaffected because they tap into the older Pleistocene sediments. Such deep tube wells can potentially be used for a long time without fear of contamination. However, even deep aquifers can become tainted with the overuse of groundwater. Such overuse can disturb the clay separating the deep and shallow aquifers, allowing the arsenic to enter previously pristine waters. Way ahead: There is an urgent need for mitigation strategy such as - painting wells, holding door-to-door campaigns, conducting street plays and distributing flyers about the danger of using contaminated tube wells. Unless this happened, patients would not go to government-run arsenic clinics or switch to safe tube wells. Two solutions: State’s short-term strategy is to provide Hooghly water to about half the arsenic-affected villages. The other half are to be served by community arsenic-treatment plants. Until West Bengal is able to get safe water for all the 10 million at risk, its villages will remain dotted with tragedy. ECONOMY TOPIC: General Studies 3: Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. Improving ease of doing business: Focusing on micro-policy enforcement Introduction: The government must be commended for their focus on incremental reforms that resulted in India breaking into the top 100 in the World Bank’s Doing Business rankings for the first time. However, despite this success India continues to perform relatively poorly in many perception-based surveys of trade facilitation and ‘open-ness’ despite all these major reform initiatives. The governance challenge: Three broad institutional challenges in the Indian system. Poor quality of enforcement and lack of transparency: Mismatch between the intent of reforms and quality of actual enforcement and transparency on the ground, — the governance challenge. All businesses, Indian and foreign, complain that risk management and transparency related reforms that are boldly announced by senior officers in ministries are not adopted in spirit and content by their junior colleagues responsible for enforcement. This is true for a wide array and departments and services ranging from fire and safety inspectors and indirect tax officials to road transport regulators and municipal officers. Part of the problem is that a high level of discretion still exists with the officer enforcing rules on the ground. This is aggravated by the lack of a time-bound grievance redress mechanism, and the absence of independent ‘auditors’ who monitor on-ground enforcement quality and ensure there is accountability for poor decisions made in the field. The design challenge The second problem can be called the ‘design challenge’. Procedures are often designed to cater to the few instances of failure or non-compliance and not for efficiency and facilitation. Examples- India is perhaps the only country in the world that requires a boarding pass to be stamped after security check at airports (earlier even luggage tags needed the stamp). This entire activity is to ensure that no one ‘slips’ through the security system and is eventually apprehended at the boarding gate. Despite GST, if a truck is caught with a shipment about which authorities have some doubt, the entire vehicle is held up at the check-post. What is required is confidence in the government’s own enforcement ability. The management challenge: The third problem is the management challenge. There is a tendency to blame poor quality of government services on lack of infrastructure or human resources. This often over-looks the fact that there are many examples of better services with effectively less resources. Example- The problem of quality of policing in India. Per capita police personnel deployed is one of the lowest in India. But this cannot be an excuse to make the simplest of tasks, the filing of a formal complaint (i.e. FIR), to become an insurmountable challenge for the common person. Similarly, many efficient ports and cargo terminals in other countries have higher square-meter per ton ratio compared to Indian counterparts that are much less efficient. These management challenges add to transaction costs. Way ahead: The extent of India’s macro-policy reforms has borne results, it is time start focusing on the micro-policies of enforcement. Top down macro reforms can only be effective if they are twinned with bottom-up micro reforms. Unless the day-to-day experience of doing business improves, we will continue to under-perform relative to our true potential. Connecting the dots: While macro policy initiatives have helped us in improving overall ease of doing rankings, it is time that the enforcement of policy at micro-level and transparency is focused on. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Consider the following pairs Passes Connects 1. Banihal Jammu and Srinagar 2. Zoji La Srinagar and Leh 3. Shipki La Himachal Pradesh and Tibet 4. Mana pass Uttarakhand and Tibet Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched? 1 only 2 only 1 and 3 only All the above Q.2) Consider the following statements about ‘Zoji La Pass Tunnel Project’ It will be the longest tunnel in Asia when completed It is an upcoming project which aims at providing all weather connectivity between Srinagar, Kargil and Leh. Select the correct statements 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 MUST READ Death by slow poisoning The Hindu Questions of representation The Hindu New great game in the Indo-Pacific Indian Express Restoring trust Indian Express Let it fly Business Line

May 19, 2018 IASbaba's OFFLINE CLASSES

IASbaba’s Connect to Conquer (C2C) Initiative: Details of Offline Mentorship Based Mains Guidance Programme for GS

Hello Friends While Prelims is round the corner and you are breaking your sweat to get a chance to write Mains this year, we will take 5 minutes of your time to draw your attention to the initiatives that are lined up post Prelims. We wanted to announce the details only after Prelims. However, we have been receiving frantic mails from our followers regarding the Connect to Conquer (C2C) initiative- IASbaba’s flagship offline Mains guidance programme. In fact, many rank holders and candidates having appeared in the interview have been pressing us to reveal the details of C2C soon. Surely, it has got to do with the tremendous success that IASbaba’s followers have got in CSE 2017 (more than 75 selections with 12 in Top 100!) and also the popularity that C2C has received in the very first year of its announcement. C2C is a mentorship-based answer writing initiative that has been designed to make you capable of answering the questions asked in General Studies and Essay in the most effective (read scoring) way possible. C2C gives you a chance to connect with the best mentors at IASbaba and get your skills monitored, honed and upgraded to let you secure a place in the final list. The USP of this initiative is the connect that you get to establish with your mentor. Believe us, it helps a lot. The mentor is your friend, philosopher and guide in this process. You will enjoy the process even as you devote your maximum energy and time to keep pace with the course plan. Hear from our students about C2C Phase 1 While we could have easily launched a test series inviting hundreds of candidates and formed a peer group for them without effort from our side, we decided to choose quality over quantity. We know that individual strengths and weaknesses vary from person to person and in order to get through this examination one has to have personal attention and guidance. That is why we are here with C2C. We have decided to keep the numbers limited to 100, which means that not all will get the opportunity to become a part of C2C. But we can’t do much about that now as we know that taking too many candidates would dilute the very purpose of this programme. The features of (C2C) are: Small groups of 15 candidates each having their own mentors to connect with. 16 high quality and high order thinking tests (12 part tests and 4 full-length tests of GS excluding 4 Essay tests) to be conducted under strict supervisions and monitoring of the mentors. (Click here to download the sample test) Approach paper (Click here to download the sample) given in advance to streamline your preparation. Same day high-quality synopsis (Click here to download the sample) and individual feedback from the mentors. Booklets of tests to be corrected by the mentors in a week’s time. Regular tracking of your progress through intensive one on one session with your mentors. Provision of customised solutions for each candidate as per his/her needs and strengths. 8 highly specialised sessions under the Series of Interactive Lectures (SOIL) to help you grow your analytical ability in areas like Essay and General Strategy, Polity, Indian Society, International Relations, Internal Security, Economics and Ethics. IASbaba provides uniques 5 day strategies for GS 1,2,3 and 4 papers. Mentor moderated group discussions (GD) within and with the groups for helping you develop a critical perspective of the issues in hand. The detailed schedule of the tests is given below. The tests would start from 23rd June as we feel that you need at least three weeks to rejuvenate and shift your gears from Prelims to Mains mode. You can use these days to warm up and get ready for highly intense and compact three months of Mains preparation. DOWNLOAD THE SCHEDULE HERE After the completion of the programme, you would have: Practised more than 300 subjective questions. Gained in-depth perspective of 300 issues with the help of synopsis. Improved yourself a lot with the help of critical inputs from your mentor. Developed the ability to answer any type of question asked by UPSC. Formed a highly energetic, compact and competitive group of sincere aspirants into a social capital. Gained the wherewithals to conquer Mains 2018!! Imperatives for C2C: The candidates need to relocate to Bengaluru for C2C. It’s compulsory to attend all the tests in the C2C Building. If you take the tests home, it won’t be evaluated. Candidates must adhere to timings for discussion of tests and one on one slots. C2C is an intensive mentorship programme, therefore, regularity and sincerity is a must. Fee Structure: Will be conveyed over the mail to selected candidates. You will need to apply for this programme by filling up the form given below and submit to us at the earliest. FILL THE FORM HERE However, we recommend that you assess your chances in prelims and only then apply. Selected candidates will be sent an invite through e-mail. The admission process will be over by 16th June. We are also going to have a list of waitlisted candidates who might get a chance to be a part of C2C. The invites to such candidates shall be sent separately subject to availability of seats. We are also getting many queries regarding the online version of C2C. Although we are planning to launch online C2C from next year onwards, this year it won't be there. However, candidates can get benefited from IASbaba’s most popular online answer writing programme- Think Learn and Perform (TLP). It’s free and may UPSC toppers have acknowledged the role of TLP in their success. As for optionals, the details will be shared soon. We provide mentorship based answer writing guidance in Geography, Anthropology, Kannada, Public Administration and Sociology. Guidance for optionals will run parallel to C2C. Finally, we extend our warmest wishes for Prelims. If you have been sincere and consistent in your preparation, no one can stop you from achieving your goal. All the best and see you after Prelims! IASbaba Team Contact Email- support@iasbaba.com

May 19, 2018 Topper's From IASbaba

POLITICAL SCIENCE OPTIONAL Strategy: Ankit Pannu Rank 31 UPSC CSE 2017 (Optional Marks 285 in 2016 and 300 in 2017)

Hi Friends, Ankit Pannu being a regular follower of all IASbaba's initiatives (TLP Mains Answer Writing and IASbaba's Daily News Analysis are his favourite) credits IASbaba's Super 60 - Online Mentorship Programme for his improvement in his ranking from AIR 444 in 2016 to AIR 31 in 2017 Ankit Pannu Rank 31 UPSC CSE 2017 - My Journey I started the preparation for UPSC in my 4th year in college. I have done B.Tech in Polymer Science and Chemical Technology from Delhi Technological University (2016 batch) and i gave my first attempt in 2016 and got AIR 444. That year my optional marks (285) helped me get my name in the list, likewise this year also my marks in optional (300) proved clinical for securing an AIR-31. OPTIONAL STRATEGY: Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) Importance of an optional subject is beyond doubt the most crucial aspect of UPSC preparation. In these similar terms, My optional, Political Science and International Relations (PSIR) has helped me clear UPSC in both my attempts. Choosing an optional subject can be difficult and sometimes many of us end up choosing an optional subject which is not right for us. Interest in a particular subject along with some prior proficiency in that must be the prime factors considered while choosing an optional. Other factor of “GS Overlap” can also be considered. I myself decided to choose PSIR after going through previous year papers of UPSC, reading the syllabus and NCERTs related to my optional subject, just to get a glimpse of it and analyse if i have any sort of interest in the subject. Key Points I followed during my preparation : Time Devotion : I devoted 40-50 percent of my daily time (After Prelims) to my PSIR preparation as it helped me in GS papers also. ( GS Overlap : GS paper 1- Social Issues, India’s Freedom Struggle, GS paper 2- complete, GS Paper 3- Internal Security, GS paper 4- Philosopher part) Sources : I focused only on Shubhra Mam’s Notes for covering the syllabus of PSIR, and read O.P. Gauba for Political Theory (3-4 times), O.P. Gauba for Indian Thinkers (2 Times), Global Politics by Andrew Heywood (Selective Reading by referring to the syllabus). For international relations i read blogs of various I.R. Experts. (Links Provided below). Notes Making : I had prepared lucid notes for PSIR, only for topics and subject part that i had difficulty remembering. Other purpose of making notes was for revision in the last 1-2 days before exams. Answer Writing : I practiced answer writing through Shubhra Mam’s Test series and also through previous year papers. The more you practice for PSIR the better answers you will be able to write. Now i will focus on the syllabus of PSIR and how i covered and prepared each dimension of it :- Paper 1, Section A Political Theories, Theories of state, ideologies, Indian Political Thought i covered from O.P. Gauba and from Shubhra mam notes. These are sufficient sources and we don’t have to go beyond these. Practice of Previous years Questions helped me a lot here as it provides a glimpse of how questions have been asked, and sometimes questions get repeated here, in a different way though. I wrote my answers in paragraph format in almost whole of my optional paper, also I tried to connect the Topics here and mention the name of thinkers and their theories where ever they fit in. In the introduction part in this section i emphasised on giving a background of the topic, For example in the question to comment on “Neo-Liberal Perspective of state” i started with what is Neo liberalism and why it came into being. In the body part i had written about the important dimensions of Neo liberalism and the names of their proponents/Thinkers alongwith and also focused on its drawbacks in a brief manner (Always provide examples to support whatever points you make in the Body). In the conclusion i remained positive, a little critical, futuristic and pragmatic ( Very Important in PSIR Conclusions). Paper 1, Section B This part is more connected with the GS paper 2. I prepared current affairs part for this paper (For questions like ‘Judiciary has acquired the role of both, a legislature and an executive in recent years. Explain with suitable examples.’ Here one must be aware of the current examples to write a good answer), and read Shubhra Mam’s notes along with Laxmikanth. Shubhra mam proves names of scholars in her notes which can be used in answers in this part, one thing must be taken care of here, whatever scholar you quote, it should be factually correct and proper explanation must be provided along with otherwise just a quote would solve no purpose. Paper 2, Section A In this part of the syllabus i only focused on Shubhra Mam’s Notes and Selective reading of Global Politics by Andrew Heywood. Here, Comparative politics can be done from shubhra mam’s notes, that will do it. Answers in this part should have a blend of current examples and historical background. (For example, in the question ‘Do you agree with the view that despite the limitations in the functioning of the UN, it has distinguished and unique achievements to its credit’, it becomes important to write about UN’s History and its achievements through current examples.) Also International experts can be quoted where ever it seems logical and appropriate , like in the Question of Brexit, last year, C.Raja Mohan can be quoted in “what india must do” in case of Brexit with proper explanation of whatever he said. These IR experts can be found in the notes on current Issues released by Shubhra mam in last days before mains. Pragmatic, logical and Futuristic answers are appreciated in this part. Paper 2, Section B In this part background knowledge of International relations between India and different countries and also evolution of India’s Foreign Policy is essential. One can do these from Shubhra mam notes. After this, current affairs part can be done from the notes provided by Shubhra mam in last month before mains examination. Apart from this, one can follow online sources like : https://chellaney.net/ , https://www.project-syndicate.org/ , http://indianexpress.com/profile/columnist/c-raja-mohan/ , https://thediplomat.com/tag/indian-foreign-policy/ , https://idsa.in/ , https://bharatkarnad.com/ . One must prepare and analyse the relations between different countries and india through a Pragmatic, Realist, and Futuristic lens to answer questions in this part in a better way. One More Thing : Do not leave anything in syllabus thinking that we will have choice and we will skip this particular topic, but there are always chances that the topic you left out comes in compulsory part of questions, or either clubbed with 2 other question which were on topics you prepared really well. So my advice to you is complete whole syllabus at least 3-4 times with minimum sources and maximum possible practice of answer writing. All the best to everyone for their UPSC journey Ankit Pannu You can also check our Toppers from CSE-2017– Click Here

May 18, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 18th May 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 18th May 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) plan Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy; Monetary Policy; RBI reforms; NPA issue What is Prompt Corrective Action? To ensure that banks don't go bust, RBI has put in place some trigger points to assess, monitor, control and take corrective actions on banks which are weak and troubled. The process or mechanism under which such ac tions are taken is known as Prompt Corrective Action, or PCA. In News: Eleven of India’s 21 listed government-owned banks were placed under the Reserve Bank of India’s watch due to large bad loans, weak capital levels and low return on assets. (during Jan 2018) The Centre has expressed that it will ensure every possible support to strengthen the resolve of these banks to come out of the PCA framework as quickly as possible. Indiscriminate lending of the past has caused this distress the banking sector is facing. Do you know? RBI had come out with ‘Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework’ for banks (in Apr 2017). Earlier, the PCA framework was applicable only to commercial banks and not extended to co-operative banks, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) and FMIs. However, in May 2017, RBI issued revised PCA framework , which could be applicable to all banks operating in India including small and foreign banks. PCA is aimed at improving banks’ health. It also helps to contain NPAs. Recently, National Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development (Nabard) has come out with a ‘Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework’ for regional rural banks (RRBs). Urbanization issues Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Indian Economy; Urbanization issues In News: UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN-DESA) has released its 2018 Revision of the World Urbanization Prospects Highlights: Forecasting for the year 2050, the UN agency estimates that the percentage of urban residents in India would be 52.8, compared to 34 today. Delhi would be world’s most populous city by 2028. India, China and Nigeria are expected to lead other countries and account for 35% of the projected growth in urban population by mid-century. Concerns with Urbanization Report says – ‘Even with only a third of the population living in cities, civic anarchy is rampant in the country’. Rapid increase in the number of slums; lack of enforcement of building norms; heavily congested metros; poor investment in public transport; unsustainable levels of private vehicle use – are some of the issues. Recent data released by the World Health Organisation show – 14 Indian cities among the top 20 worldwide with the worst air quality profiles (especially with regard to PM 2.5) Most cities are also unable to collect and dispose municipal waste scientifically, and simply dump them in the suburbs. Integrating green spaces, open commons and wetlands will make cities cleaner and aesthetically richer. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General Studies 2: Government policies and interventions for development in various sectors and issues arising out of their design and implementation. India and its neighbourhood- relations. Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India's interests. Refugee Issue: Unanswered Aadhar Services In News: Supreme Court is currently hearing a petition against the government’s order which sought to deport/expel Rohingya refugees. Why this case is important? At current, India lacks a refugee specific legislation or a clear domestic asylum law. India currently hosts 32,000 refugees fleeing war, violence and severe persecution in countries such as Afghanistan, Myanmar, Somalia, Iraq, etc. This is in addition to the 175,000 long-staying refugees from Tibet and Sri Lanka who have been given asylum over decades. With conflicts around the world having intensified, fresh arrivals of refugees are only expected to increase. However, India is yet to enact a coherent and uniform law addressing the issue of asylum. In fact, the term “refugee” finds no mention under domestic law. Therefore, this case offers a great opportunity for the Court to lay down basic principles on refugee recognition and protection that reflect India’s constitutional values and its international commitments. Key issues to be solved: There is a need for a coherent asylum and refugee policy. There is a need for providing access to essential services to the refugees during their stay in India. Most of the facilities and services to refugees are now ineffective owing to the linking of these services to Aadhaar. The question of Aadhaar for refugees still remains unanswered. Aadhar’s true intention Aadhaar was primarily conceived as a tool for socio-economic inclusion. Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has designed a simple enrolment system that accepts a wide range of documents as proof of identity and residence so as to make it easy to procure an Aadhaar. For example, for those without any documents, UIDAI accepts a “Letter of Introduction” from a wide set of people who are pre-designated as introducers. In the interest of inclusiveness — UIDAI did not link Aadhaar to citizenship. The Aadhaar Act states that any individual who has resided in India for at least 182 days in the year immediately preceding the date of application is eligible for Aadhaar. UIDAI has clarified that foreigners fulfilling the above requirement can obtain an Aadhaar, subject to the submission of the prescribed documents. No access to Aadhaar nor essential services: Thus, based on the above, it would follow that refugees, who are registered with the government and/or the UN Refugee Agency (and are thus not “illegal immigrants”), should be issued Aadhaar if they meet both the residence and the documentation requirements. However, most Aadhaar centres are not clear about whether refugees are eligible to apply for Aadhaar. Refugees from the Afghan, the Burmese and the Congolese communities living in New Delhi report that they are being turned away by local centres due to the lack of clarity on the issue. Further, the documents held by them are not being recognised as valid proof of identity or residence. Many eligible refugees have also been scared to apply for Aadhaar due to the fear of being wrongly prosecuted as local authorities often incorrectly equate them with illegal immigrants. In recent months, with Aadhaar increasingly being enforced as a precondition to access any service, refugees are not even being able to avail of services that they once had. Many refugees report facing day-to-day difficulties like getting a SIM card, opening a bank account, renting accommodation, seeking livelihood opportunities or even accessing private hospitals. This is resulting in refugees being steadily excluded from mainstream systems and leaving them extremely vulnerable to exploitation. Such problems of exclusion of Aadhaar are being faced by many Indians as well. Way ahead: Government should consider issuing uniform documentation to refugees so as to confirm their status as legal residents and UIDAI must adhere to its commitment to inclusion by allowing more flexibility to refugees so as to establish their identity. Further, officials must be sensitised about refugees, and the existing systems to establish identity (like establishing identity through introducer systems etc.) must be extended to this group. Connecting the dots: Why there is a need for India to have a robust refugee policy? What actions can India take to provide hassle-free basic services to refugees? 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 India-Nepal relations: A new beginning Background: During the just-concluded visit to Nepal, termed “historic” by Prime Minister Narendra Modi himself, he and his host, Nepalese Premier KP Sharma Oli, reiterated their resolve to effectively implement the bilateral initiatives proposed during Prime Minister Oli’s recent visit to India, including in “agriculture, railway linkages and inland waterways development”. The visit reflected the realisation that the relationship had deteriorated in recent years and there was an urgent need to arrest the slide. Key takeaways: Mr. Modi described it as a visit by the ‘Prime Pilgrim’. With prayers offered in Janaki Mandir, Muktinath and Pashupatinath, the focus was on religious and cultural commonalities. A bus service between Janakpur and Ayodhya was inaugurated. Only one of the earlier commitments, the 900 MW Arun III hydel project, has progressed and both Prime Ministers jointly laid its foundation stone. The joint statement is short. It prioritises cooperation in agriculture, inland water-ways, a survey for a railway line from Raxaul to Kathmandu and increasing air connectivity. The “catalytic role of connectivity”: The two sides specially emphasised the “catalytic role of connectivity”. With cross-border connectivity being a crucial factor to “enhance people-to-people linkages and promote economic growth and development”, the two leaders lent a renewed dynamism to several infrastructural schemes and projects. The two Prime Ministers jointly inaugurated an integrated check post at Birgunj in Nepal to facilitate cross-border movement of people and cargo. The ground-breaking of the Motihari-Amlekhgunj pipeline done for petroleum supplies from India to Nepal. Decided to develop “cost-efficient”, economical movement of cargo through inland waterways, besides providing sea-connectivity to landlocked Nepal. India commands the centre-stage in South Asia, with 51 per cent of the region’s surface area, 71 per cent of population, and 40 per cent of GDP. Most of its neighbours share borders not only with India, but also in most cases with one more country in the region. They perforce depend on India for region-wide connectivity. Bilateral rail connectivity (Raxaul-Katmandu): A game-changer The most momentous project ever contemplated by India for its close neighbour was the joint pronouncement “to construct a new electrified rail line, with India’s financial support”, to connect Raxaul to Kathmandu, for which a preparatory survey will be conducted within one year. While assuring that Phase I cross-border rail lines (Jayanagar-Janakpur/Kurtha and Jogbani-Biratnagar) will be completed in 2018, the ongoing final location survey for the three additional rail links (New Jalpaiguri-Kakarbitta, Nautanwa-Bhairahwa, and Nepalgunj Road-Nepalgunj) will also be expedited. Challenge: India’s bureaucratic sloth What particularly irks India’s neighbours is lack of progress in implementing even minor projects. India doesn’t deliver on promises made even at the highest levels. For example, the 15-km missing rail link between Agartala on the Indian side and Akhaura rail-head in Bangladesh, that has been languishing since Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina graciously responded to India’s long-pending request for its construction during her visit in January 2010. Likewise, Myanmar is the only ASEAN country sharing a land border with India. For long, India has talked of improving road and rail connections and a new port on Myanmar’s Arakan coast, but the progress is minimal. In sharp contrast, China: China shares land borders with five SAARC countries and has a long border with Myanmar. China has for long wanted to fill the South Asian space that nature gifted to India. China views Nepal and Pakistan to be critically important for its security and territorial integrity in Xinjiang and Tibet. It is busy building a web of road and rail links, also ‘String of Pearls’ in Sri Lanka, Myanmar, Pakistan, and Bangladesh. Way ahead: Now that India has shown rare vision and courage to proceed towards building the Raxaul-Kathmandu rail link, it should seize the occasion to build its self-confidence and among its neighbours by completing the project in record time. The Raxaul-Kathmandu rail link has the potential of having a ‘transformational impact’ on the region. Conclusion: A new beginning based on the principles of “equality, mutual trust, respect and mutual benefit”, phrases that Mr. Oli now insists on including in every joint statement, has started and will require time. Sustained effort by India in ensuring implementation of long-pending economic cooperation projects is required and must be given priority. Connecting the dots: A new beginning has been initiated in India-Nepal relations. Sustained effort by India in ensuring implementation of long-pending economic cooperation projects is required and must be given priority. Comment. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Consider the following statements with regard to ‘Prompt Corrective Action (PCA) Framework’, which was in news recently. Identify the correct statement – RBI has come out with this framework in order to contain NPAs of Public Sector Banks only. NABARD has come out with this framework for regional rural banks (RRBs). Ministry of Home Affairs has come out with this framework for directing all NGOs and entities receiving foreign fundings. Lodha Panel has come out with this framework that will sort out the mess in sports once and for all. Q.2) World Urbanization Prospects is released by – WEF IMF UN WB MUST READ Should we do away with IB ministry The Hindu The east Asian reset The Hindu Growing cities The Hindu Identity in exile Indian Express This moment in the valley Indian Express Electric vehicles don't need a government Livemint Existential crisis for public sector banks Business Line

May 18, 2018 RSTV Video

RSTV- The Big Picture : Pollution Alert

Pollution Alert Archives TOPIC: General Studies 3: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment In News: The World Health Organization (WHO) in its pollution report ranked 14 Indian cities among world’s 15 most polluted cities in the world. Air Pollution: National Health Crisis Kanpur is the most affected based on PM2.5 levels in 2016. While Gwalior stood second in the chart, other cities like Delhi, Varanasi Kanpur, Faridabad, Gaya, Patna, Agra, Muzaffarpur, Srinagar, Gurgaon, Jaipur, Patiala and Jodhpur also featured in the list. The study ranked 4,300 cities in 108 countries across the world. 9 out of 10 people or 90 per cent of people in the world breathe air containing high levels of pollutants. The estimations revealed an alarming death toll of 7 million people every year caused by ambient (outdoor) and household air pollution. More than 90 per cent of air pollution-related deaths occur in countries with low-and-middle income Around three billion people — more than 40 per cent of the world's population — still do not have access to clean cooking fuels and technologies in their homes, the main source of household air pollution. The WHO report, however, praised India's Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana Scheme for providing some 37 million free liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) connections in the past two years that help promoting the use of clean household energy. India targets to reach 80 million households by 2020. WHO recognises air pollution as a critical risk factor for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), causing an estimated 24 per cent of all adult deaths from heart disease, 25 per cent from stroke, 43 per cent from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and 29 per cent from lung cancer. India needs to take urgent but calculated steps – Urgent intervention is needed for implementing the National Clean Air Action Plan with a strong compliance strategy to meet the clean air standards in all cities. Real-time air quality monitoring, especially that of PM2.5, will have to be expanded significantly to assess air quality in all cities with sizeable population. India needs massive energy transition across industries and households, mobility transition to public transport, walking and cycling, and effective waste management to control this run-away pollution. If Indian cities are to cut their own air pollution levels, the change and planning has to happen at the city level and state level, instead of depending on the overall climate control goals and programmes set at the union level. There should be a formation of holistic strategy in which Centre and states including UTs should have equitable involvement with same sense of commitment and accountability so that pollution levels are brought down with suggested a road map in place. The solutions are not particularly complicated - but it depends on political will and the ability to reduce corruption at the planning in monitoring level. Again, these are not insolvable problems. But fixing them requires dedicated work, and enforcing pollution norms strictly. The problem with the air pollution control of Indian cities has to be tackled at the city governance level - not at the central level. Note: In a paper published Monday in the American Heart Association's journal Hypertension, researchers reported that children of mothers who were exposed in their third trimester to higher levels of fine particulate pollution — the tiny airborne matter that causes haze in many cities around the world — were at a 61 percent higher risk of elevated blood pressure. Do Read: Link 1 + Link 2 + Link 3 Connecting the Dots: A failure to act will not reflect well on our use of the environment, for which there is no replacement. Examine the statement in the light of the recent WHO Report. Be Prelims-Ready What is PM2.5? PM2.5: Includes pollutants, such as sulfate, nitrates and black carbon, which pose the greatest risks to human health. PM2.5 is a particulate matter in the atmosphere that has a diameter of 2.5 micrometres, which is around three per cent the diameter of a human hair. These particulate matters reduce visibility and even cause respiratory problems. Owing to its small size, it can easily pass through a person’s nose and throat and cause chronic diseases such as asthma, heart attack, bronchitis and other respiratory problems by making way the circulatory system. National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): A long-term, time-bound, national-level strategy to tackle the increasing air pollution problem across the country in a comprehensive manner. The total tentative cost of NCAP is estimated at Rs 637 crore. Objective: Comprehensive management plan for prevention, control and abatement of air pollution, besides augmenting the air quality monitoring network across the country. Focuses on: Collaborative and participatory approach covering all sources of pollution and coordination between relevant central ministries, state governments, local bodies and other stakeholders Intensive awareness, training and capacity-building drive, with specific impetus on augmentation of manpower and infrastructure facilities of the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and the state pollution control board (SPCBs) A credible, transparent and accountable data collection and monitoring system that is available for timely swift action is to be ensured Increasing the number of monitoring stations, data dissemination, public participation on planning and implementation Setting up of air information centre for data analysis, resource apportionment studies, national inventory and rural monitoring stations, besides guidelines for indoor air pollution LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging): Being used to vertically monitor the air quality of Delhi-NCR To track the evolution of a pollutant over time To detect leakage of organic pollutants in storage facilities and industrial plants, such as oil refineries To observe the structure and height of mixing layers To measure the transport and diffusion of plumes or clouds of particulates To remotely determine smoke-plume opacity Climate & Clean Air Coalition Unites governments, civil society and private sector, committed to improving air quality and protecting the climate in next few decades by reducing short-lived climate pollutants (SLCP) across sectors By the governments of Bangladesh, Canada, Ghana, Mexico, Sweden and the United States, along with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) Objective: To address short-lived climate pollutants. Initial focus on: Methane, black carbon, and HFCs National Air Quality Index (AQI) Would measure Particulate Matter 2.5 Ozone Carbon monoxide Ammonia Lead Nitrogen oxide Sulpher dioxide PM 10 Six AQI categories AQI Associated Health Impacts Good (0–50) Minimal Impact Satisfactory (51–100) May cause minor breathing discomfort to sensitive people. Moderately polluted (101–200) May cause breathing discomfort to people with lung disease such as asthma, and discomfort to people with heart disease, children and older adults. Poor (201–300) May cause breathing discomfort to people on prolonged exposure, and discomfort to people with heart disease Very Poor (301–400) May cause respiratory illness to the people on prolonged exposure. Effect may be more pronounced in people with lung and heart diseases. Severe (401-500) May cause respiratory impact even on healthy people, and serious health impacts on people with lung/heart disease. The health impacts may be experienced even during light physical activity.

May 18, 2018

IASbaba’s 60 Day Plan- Prelims Test 2018 SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY AND CURRENT AFFAIRS [Day 57]

May 17, 2018 IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs [Prelims + Mains Focus] - 17th May 2018

IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 17th May 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Karnataka Governor invites BJP to form government Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Polity; Appointment of chief minister and role of Governor Key Pointers: Appointment of chief minister The Constitution does not contain any specific procedure for the selection and appointment of the Chief Minister. Article 164 only says that the Chief Minister shall be appointed by the governor. However, this does not imply that the governor is free to appoint any one as the Chief Minister. In accordance with the convections of the parliamentary system of government, the governor has to appoint the leader of the majority party in the state legislative assembly as the Chief Minister. But, when no party has a clear majority in the assembly, then the governor may exercise his personal discretion in the selection and appointment of the Chief Minister. In such a situation, the governor usually appoints the leader of the largest party or coalition in the assembly as the Chief Minister and ask him to seek a vote of confidence in the House within a month. Do you know? Situational discretion (i.e., the hidden discretion derived from the exigencies of a prevailing political situation) of Governor. Governor can use situational discretion in the following cases: Appointment of chief minister when no party has a clear-cut majority in the state legislative assembly or when the chief minister in office dies suddenly and there is no obvious successor. Dismissal of the council of ministers when it cannot prove the confidence of the state legislative assembly. Dissolution of the state legislative assembly if the council of ministers has lost its majority. Concept of ‘Political ethics’ and Bommai judgment Former Supreme Court judge, Justice K.T. Thomas, said it is “political ethics” for the Governor to first invite the single largest party to form a “stable government.” Justice Thomas refers to the Bommai judgment of 1994 to support his argument. The Bommai judgment endorses the Sarkaria Commission report of the 1988. The Commission recommends that in case of no pre-poll alliance among parties, the Governor should give first preference to the single largest party. However, the Bommai judgment also mentions that the Governor can either invite the “single largest party/group.” Place in news: Kishanganga hydroelectric project at Bandipore Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II In News: Prime Minister Narendra Modi to open the Kishanganga hydroelectric project at Bandipore in north Kashmir Important Value Additions: The Kishanganga Hydroelectric Plant is part of a run-of-the-river hydroelectric scheme that is designed to divert water from the Kishanganga River to a power plant in the Jhelum River basin. Pic link: http://images.indianexpress.com/2018/04/kishanganga-project.jpg Do you know? Construction on the Kishanganga hydroelectric project began in 2007 and was expected to be complete in 2016. Construction on the dam was temporarily halted by the Hague's Permanent Court of Arbitration (CoA) in October 2011 due to Pakistan's protest of its effect on the flow of the Kishanganga River (called the Neelum River in Pakistan). However, in 2013, the CoA ruled that India could divert all the water leaving a minimum amount of water to the downstream of the dam on Kishanganga River for the purpose of environmental flows. About Hague's Permanent Court of Arbitration (CoA) It is an intergovernmental organization, located at The Hague in the Netherlands. The PCA is not a court "in the traditional sense" but provides services of arbitral tribunal to resolve disputes that arise out of international agreements between member states, international organizations or private parties. The cases span a range of legal issues involving territorial and maritime boundaries, sovereignty, human rights, international investment, and international and regional trade. The organization is not a United Nations agency, but PCA is an official United Nations Observer. Article Link: Centre halts security ops in J&K Vulture Conservation: Critically endangered vultures Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Biodiversity; Animal Conservation In news: Palarapu cliff vulture habitat in Telangana. Forest Department officials from Palarapu cliff vulture habitat visited Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre (JCBC), Pinjore, Haryana, to study the methods and status of conservation. Vulture Safe Zone (VSZ) initiative of the Pinjore JCBC to be implemented in Telangana. The project envisages elimination of the probability of consumption of the drug diclofenac through animal carcasses by the vultures within a radius of 100 km which is considered to be the range of the habitat. Important Value Additions: Of the 9 species found in India, 4 have been listed as critically endangered. Remember only critically endangered vultures Indian White-rumped Vulture (Gyps bengalensis) -- Critically endangered Long-billed Vulture or Indian Vulture (Gyps indicus) -- Critically endangered Slender-billed Vulture (Gyps tenuirostris) -- Critically endangered Red-headed Vulture (Sarcogyps calvus) -- Critically endangered Article link: Cliff habitat needs a vulture safe zone ‘Swachh Survekshan 2018’: Swachh rankings are out Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Biodiversity; Pollution Key Pointers: Swachh Survekshan survey is released by Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs ‘Swachh Survekshan 2018’ Rankings: State-wise Ranks City-wise Ranks Jharkhand Indore Maharashtra Bhopal Chhattisgarh Chandigarh State-wise: Jharkhand emerges as best performing State. Maharashtra stood second, while Chhattisgarh was at the third position in the category of ‘best-performing States’. City-wise: Indore gets cleanest city tag; followed by Madhya Pradesh capital Bhopal, while Union Territory of Chandigarh stands at the third place Mysuru has been ranked the cleanest medium-sized city in the country. Mysuru has been ranked the cleanest among cities with a population of between 3 lakh and one million. Mangaluru has been ranked the best city in solid waste management. Article Link: Swachh rankings are out, Indore gets cleanest city tag - NATIONAL ... New Bio-Fuel Policy Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Biodiversity; Pollution In news: Union Cabinet approved a national policy on biofuels. Key pointers: The new policy seeks to help farmers dispose of their surplus stock in an economic manner and reduce India’s oil-import dependence. Scope of raw material for ethanol production expanded The policy expands the scope of raw material for ethanol production by allowing use of – sugarcane juice sugar containing materials like sugar beet, sweet sorghum starch containing materials like corn, cassava damaged food grains like wheat, broken rice rotten potatoes [that are] unfit for human consumption Policy allows use of surplus food grains for production of ethanol for blending with petrol with the approval of National Biofuel Coordination Committee. The policy provides for a viability gap funding scheme for second generation (more advanced) ethanol bio-refineries in addition to tax incentives and a higher purchase price as compared to first generation biofuels. Important Value Additions: A biofuel is a fuel that is produced through contemporary biological processes, such as agriculture and anaerobic digestion, rather than a fuel produced by geological processes such as those involved in the formation of fossil fuels, such as coal and petroleum, from prehistoric biological matter. Earlier Bio-fuel policy had proposed indicative target of 20% blending of biofuels, both for bio-diesel and bio-ethanol, by 2017. Ethanol run bus launched in Nagpur under ‘Green Bus’ Project Article link: Cabinet approves new biofuels policy - The Hindu Banned ozone-destroying chemical on rise: scientists In News: The 1987 Montreal Protocol banned industrial aerosols such as chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) that were chemically dissolving ozone, especially above Antarctica. Measurements at remote sites, including the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii, of the chemical, known as CFC-11, point to East Asia as the source or renewed production. All-women crew of INSV Tarini to return Part of: GS Prelims – Defence/Science In news: INSV Tarini, the naval sail ship with an all-women crew circumnavigating the globe for the past nine months, will return to India this week after successful completion of the ambitious mission. The expedition is named as ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama’ Important Value Additions: INSV Tarini is almost identical to her illustrious predecessor, the iconic Mhadei which has sailed over 115000 nautical miles in the past eight years. About Tarani and Mhadei The boat draws her origin from the famous Tara-Tarini temple of Orissa’s Ganjam district. The word Tarini means a Boat and is also a Sanskrit word for Saviour. Tara-Tarini is a patron deity for sailors and merchants and is worshipped for safety and success at sea. Tara-Tarini of Orissa is known to have historical linkages with the river Goddess Mhadei- the exclusive boat deity of the Mhadei river of Goa. Both the deities Tarini and Mhadei have sculptural similarities. Article Link: Crew of INSV Tarini to return Newest frog: Mangaluru narrow-mouthed frog Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Biodiversity In News: The latest addition to India’s frog fauna is the Mangaluru narrow-mouthed frog The new frog is christened Microhyla kodial after the city of Mangaluru (called kodial in the Konkani language) The frog is found only in a small industrial space in the city Article Link: Newest frog for India from Karnataka (MAINS FOCUS) 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: Conservation, environmental pollution and degradation, environmental impact assessment India on its path to becoming an Electric Vehicle hub Background: Over the past 12 months, the government has been steadfastly advocating a move to phase out petrol and diesel cars completely and transforming the country into an all-electric market by the year 2030. Action plans have been formulated. The question remains, however, is India on the right track to becoming an EV hub? Benefits of shifting to EV: Cut down on fuel bills. Reduce emissions. Cut the escalating demand for road infrastructure. Above all, it will change the face of the automotive industry and transform India into the leading electric vehicle market in the region and perhaps the world. Opportunities: All eyes remain on India to excel in this space, not only due to the strong presence of many of the world’s leading automotive brands, but also the government’s clearly voiced support. Malaysia has announced recently that it plans to lean on Indian expertise in developing its own auto industry. Many leading companies are already gearing up for EVs. Maruti Suzuki and Hyundai announced their plans to introduce their first electric vehicles in India by 2020 and 2019, respectively. Challenges: With more than half of the automotive suppliers in India based on engine-and-transmission systems, the industry is likely to take a hit. Strong government support will be required to help transform these companies. The risk falls on the industry in determining the market readiness of electric vehicles. Charging infrastructure: While the EV fleet and charging networks across the world have grown concurrently, it has led to the emergence of different charging standards in different regions. Every car has a different charging system. All models of different manufacturers cannot be charged at any station. At present, there are very few charging stations in India, which makes long-distance travel almost impossible. Given that more than 80 per cent of car owners in India state that they have only one car for their household, this limitation has always been a big hurdle to accepting EVs. Government incentives such as offering subsidised electricity tariffs and promoting public awareness will help in developing the infrastructure. The recent government initiative to set up EV charging stations at parking lots of railway stations is likely to generate greater interest and acceptability. Other focus areas: Platforms to develop battery cell technologies and pack, innovative software, and telematics — whereby detailed data about the areas in a city that have the most number of EVs at any point in time, should be developed. The strategic placement of charging points at coffee shops, restaurants, and malls — will help in easing the potential hiccups faced by the prospect of charging EVs outside key hub spots. Increased energy generation: There are opportunities for energy and renewable energy firms to leverage on the eventual increased demand for electricity (by the EVs). Addressing the increased energy needs hand-in-hand should thus go hand in hand with discussions surrounding the EV sector. India’s largest power generation utility, NTPC, is currently seeking a pan-India licence to set up charging stations. In order to increase the momentum of electrification development, an innovative and pragmatic approach should be adopted to address energy supplies. Govt support: Short-term incentives such as cash subsidies, lowering road taxes and cutting GST for EVs, along with other measures such as tax rebates, would help to project a stronger long-term committed strategy. The industry awaits further clarity on the government’s position on electric vehicles (EVs) regarding: Availability of charging infrastructure. Investment and incentive guidelines. The role of state governments to support the launch of EVs. China example: China has already shown the way on how to support growth in this sector. Besides offering EV owners generous subsidies, China has also introduced a preferential vehicle licensing system, whereby EV buyers get their license plates free and with least delay. China is focusing investments into EV charging stations. These measures have culminated in a boom for the industry with sales of electric vehicles and hybrid vehicles up 53 per cent in 2016. If India can look to replicate at least some of these measures, the EV industry would respond positively. Conclusion: India’s automotive industry is headed for an inflection point. To make India an EV hub setting up the required infrastructure is most crucial. Also, keeping the industry and its customers at the core of all relevant smart mobility plans is crucial to ensure that India stays on the right track to becoming an EV hub. Connecting the dots: India’s automotive industry is headed for an inflection point. To make India an EV hub setting up the required infrastructure is most crucial. Discuss. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) In which of the following cases, Governor can use situational discretion? During appointment of chief minister when no party has a clear-cut majority in the state legislative assembly. When the chief minister in office dies suddenly and there is no obvious successor. Dismissal of the council of ministers when it cannot prove the confidence of the state legislative assembly. Dissolution of the state legislative assembly if the council of ministers has lost its majority. Choose appropriate code: 2 and 3 only 1, 3 and 4 1, 2 and 3 1, 2, 4 and 4 Q.2) Consider the following statements Constitution does not contain any specific procedure for the selection and appointment of the Chief Minister. According to the Indian Constitution, in case of no pre-poll alliance among parties, the Governor should give first preference to the single largest party. Governor has provision to exercise his/her personal discretion in the selection and appointment of the Chief Minister, when no party has a clear majority in the assembly. Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 All of the above Q.3) The oath of office and secrecy is administered to the Chief Minister by Speaker of Legislative Assembly Governor Chief Justice of the High Court Senior most Member of Legislative Assembly Q.4) ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama’ is a voyage of circumnavigation of Globe by an India crew. What is special about it? It is first ever attempt to circumnavigate the globe by an Indian crew. It is the first time an indigenous ship is being used to circumnavigate the globe. This is the first-ever Indian circumnavigation of the globe by an all-women crew. This is the first ever circumnavigation of globe attempted in History. Q.5) Pakistan has objected over the India’s 330 MW Kishanganga hydroelectric project in kishanganga river, Kishanganga is a tributary of which river? Jhelum Indus Chenab None of the above Q.6) Consider the below statements in reference to Permanent Court of Arbitration (CoA) It is an intergovernmental organization, located at The Hague in the Netherlands. The organization is not a United Nations agency, but PCA is an official United Nations Observer. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 Neither 1 nor 2 Q.7) Jatayu Conservation Breeding Centre (JCBC) is part of – Telangana’s vulture conservation programme Haryana’s vulture conservation programme Maharashtra’s vulture conservation programme Madhya Pradesh’s vulture conservation programme Q.8) Vultures are considered to be declining in population mostly due to consumption of carcasses of livestock and cattle injected with Ketoprofen Diclofenac Both (a) and (b) Neither (a) nor (b) Q.9) Consider the below statements with regard to Swachh Survekshan 2018’: Swachh Survekshan survey is released by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. Mysuru has been ranked the best city in solid waste management. Indore gets cleanest city tag; followed by Madhya Pradesh capital Bhopal, while Union Territory of Chandigarh stands at the third place. Which of the following statements are correct? 1 and 2 1 and 3 2 and 3 All of the above Q.10) Which among the following can be used as raw material for ethanol production? Sugarcane sugar beet broken rice rotten potatoes corn Choose appropriate answer: 1, 2 and 5 1, 2, 4 and 5 1, 2 and 4 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 MUST READ A pilgrimage to Nepal The Hindu Anything but green The Hindu New vistas for India The Hindu One man's meat... Indian Express Doklam, Wuhan meet and the road ahead Business Line Bite the bullet Business Line

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