IASbaba's Flagship Course: Integrated Learning Programme (ILP) - 2024 Read Details
ARCHIVES Hello Friends This is the 35th edition of IASbaba’s Monthly Magazine on Current Affairs for UPSC Civil Services Examination. This edition covers all important issues that were in news for the month of APRIL 2018 DOWNLOAD THE MAGAZINE- CLICK HERE
Many complain its difficult to balance work and studies. But Anjali S, who hails from Kerala has a different story to tell. She could not clear Prelims in 2 attempts, but in 3rd Attempt gets 26th Rank ! Like others, she too found it difficult at times, but never quit work. Infact she is still working with Deloitte Consulting. She believes that "Working gives you a sense of guilding, when you have failures.. it also gives you a solid place to fall on and you don't fall on the ground!" Come let's hear from Anjali S, Rank 26 about her UPSC journey, how she could balance work and study and how her work experience was helpful in Mains and Interview Other important highlights of the Discussion: Preparation Strategy for Prelims, Mains and Interview Emphasis on Essay Strategy and on how she made use of Graphical Representation in her Essay Emphasis on Ethics Strategy, she goes about explaining on how to solve Case Studies with examples Time Management for a Working Professional How to go about English Literature OPTIONAL Answer Writing Tips Importance of Mentors Motivational factor and many more Once again Heartiest Congratulations from IASbaba!! You can also check our Toppers from CSE-2017– Click Here Thank You IASbaba
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
Rank- 23, Tapasya Parihar CSE 2017, a student of ILS Law College, Pune who was our ILP-2017 student shares her preparation strategy with IASbaba. Apart from Integrated Learning Program, (ILP) she was a regular follower of our other initiatives like 60 days Plan, Daily Current Affairs and TLP Mains Answer Writing Program. Watch Tapasya Parihar sharing her Complete Preparation Strategy (Prelims, Mains, Essay and Interview) with IASbaba. Other important highlights of the Discussion: An app that was useful in time management, which plays a major role in UPSC preparation. Advice on how to choose an Optional? Emphasis on how to go about LAW OPTIONAL (which many say, has not been doing well in the past 2-3 years). Answer Writing Tips Role of IASbaba in her Success Tackling certain grey areas like S&T, Environment, Art & Culture, Current Affairs Advice for fellow Aspirants .. Last Minute Tips Motivational factor and many more When we started ILP (Integrated Learning Program), we had a vision that a person situated in the remote corners of the country can clear the exam relying only on it in the very first attempt. Tapasya Parihar and many more have proved it by their faith and consistent effort throughout the programme. And that is why ILP is unique and true to its motto. That’s the reason we mentioned it was not a mere test series , but a comprehensive learning platform! Let’s hear the role of Integrated Learning Program (ILP) in her Success from Tapasya Parihar herself- Examples like her give us strength and motivation to strive forward to achieve what we started our journey for – to provide quality education to aspirants in the remotest corner of India. She has also justified our moto i.e. “One stop destination for UPSC”. Once again Heartiest Congratulations from IASbaba!! You can also check our Toppers from CSE-2017– Click Here Thank You IASbaba
IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 10th May 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Walmart to buy control of Flipkart Part of: GS Prelims and Mains Paper III – Indian Economy In News: Walmart to buy control of Flipkart - $16 bn deal - largest ever Indian acquisition by a foreign firm The deal will help Walmart (world’s largest retailer) to compete with its U.S. rival Amazon.com in a battle for dominance of India’s online marketplace. Do you know? Previous biggest acquisition was by Vodafone in 2007 Vodafone spent $13 billion to buy Hutchison’s Indian business India is one of the most attractive retail markets in the world, given its size and growth rate Important Value Additions: Role of SEBI Securities and Exchange Board of India ("SEBI”) regulates Mergers and Acquisitions transactions involving entities listed on recognised stock exchanges in India. Listed public companies, unlike unlisted companies, are required to be in compliance with applicable SEBI laws and the listing regulations. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Substantial Acquisition of Shares and Takeovers) Regulations, 2011 (in short - Takeover Code) regulates both the direct and indirect acquisition of shares, voting rights and control in listed companies that are traded over the stock market. Article Link: Walmart to buy control of Flipkart - Today's Paper - The Hindu World’s second oldest rock is from Odisha Part of: GS Prelims and Mains Paper II and III – Geography (Geology) and Science In News: World’s second oldest rock discovered in Odisha (4,240 million years old) - Singhbhum rock Rock sample recovered from Champua in Odisha’s Kendujhar district 4.2 billion-year-old zircon in the rock offers fresh clues about the earth’s origins Where is the first oldest rock in the world? Oldest rock sample in the world was discovered in Jack Hill, Western Australia (4,400 million years old) On what method the rock sample is considered as the oldest? Scientists have found in the rock a grain of ‘magmatic zircon’ that is an estimated 4,240 million years old. Zircon is a mineral that contains traces of radioactive isotopes. The machine used is called Sensitive High Resolution Ion Microprobe (SHRIMP). It is not available in India. Benefit of this discovery Their study will add valuable information about the presence of water in the first few hundred million years of the Earth’s history. It will also give us clues to when plate tectonics began. Article link: World’s second oldest rock is from Odisha IMD in damage-control mode Part of: GS Prelims and Mains paper III – Disaster Management Key Pointers: India Meteorological Department (IMD) issues four types colour codes signifying the level of caution: green (which means no action), yellow (situation to be watched), amber (government agencies be prepared for severe weather) and red (action needed by the agencies). IMD had recently issued an amber-coloured alert for J&K, Uttarakhand, Himachal, Haryana, Delhi and west U.P. with a forecast of severe thunderstorm. Article Link: IMD in damage-control mode - NATIONAL - The Hindu Clean Ganga Mission spend less than a quarter of the funds Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Environment and Ecology; Water Pollution In News: Only about a fifth of the ₹20,000 crore allotted for the National Clean Ganga Mission (NCGM) has been utilised till March 2018. The NMCG [National Mission for Clean Ganga] has been able to spend less than a quarter of the funds earmarked for the project in the last two financial years. (Report by CAG in 2017) Concerns: Government’s Ganga-cleaning exercise has come under criticism. Government had promised a “visible change” in the Ganga water quality by 2019. However, only around 20% of Clean Ganga Mission funds have been spent till March. Key pointers: The Ganges passes through the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal. Coursing 2,500 km, the Ganga is the longest river within India’s borders. The river basin spreads across 11 States (from Uttarakhand to West Bengal) Much of its pollution load — chemical effluents, sewage, dead bodies, and excreta — comes from the five states which are located along the river’s main stem: i.e. Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and West Bengal. Do you know? The industrial pollutants (volume wise) accounts for about 20%. The municipal sewage accounts for 80% of the pollution load. The industrial pollutants largely emanate from tanneries in Kanpur and distilleries, paper mills and sugar mills in the Kosi, Ramganga and Kali river catchments. Important Value Additions: Ganges flows through the nations of India and Bangladesh. Source: Gangotri Glacier (Uttarakhand) Major left-bank tributaries include Gomti (Gumti), Ghaghara (Gogra), Gandaki (Gandak), and Kosi (Kusi) Major right-bank tributaries include Yamuna (Jumna), Son, Punpun and Damodar. The Ganges is the third largest river in the world by discharge. About National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) NMCG was registered as a society under the Societies Registration Act 1860. It acted as implementation arm of National Ganga River Basin Authority (NGRBA) which was constituted under the provisions of the Environment (Protection) Act (EPA), 1986. NGRBA has since been dissolved with effect from the 7th October 2016, consequent to constitution of National Council for Rejuvenation, Protection and Management of River Ganga (referred as National Ganga Council) National Ganga Council is under chairmanship of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. Empowered Task Force (ETF) on river Ganga under chairmanship of Hon’ble Union Minister of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. Article Link: Only 20% of Clean Ganga Mission funds spent till March 2018 Taj discolouration Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Art and Culture (Architecture); Environment and Ecology; Effects of Pollution; Conservation of Heritage sites and Monuments Key Pointers: Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has been criticized by the SC for its lack of commitment to protect the monument. ASI is charged with the responsibility of maintenance of the historic monument. ASI The ASI tells Supreme Court that the numerous footfalls everyday has taken a toll on the Taj. Unwashed socks worn by visitors and rampant algae seem to turn the Taj Mahal from its natural white to yellow, brown and green – according to ASI. Other concerns: River Yamuna, which used to flow nearby, has dried up. Encroachments and industries have cropped up in the neighbourhood of the white marble mausoleum. Marble was yellowing on account of sulphur fumes from the surrounding industries. Important Value Additions: Supreme Court is lauded for its constructive application of Article 142 in an effort to bring complete justice to various deprived sections of society or to protect the environment. Article 142 provides that “the Supreme Court in the exercise of its jurisdiction may pass such decree or make such order as is necessary for doing complete justice in any cause or matter pending before it…” About Taj Mahal and its architecture: The most important work and the pride of Mughal Architecture, built by Shah Jahan. Entire structure is made of white marble quarried from Makrana. It has four minarets which are made in such a way that just in case if they fall, they fall outwards and not on the central structure. Pietra dura work has been extensively used and colourful gems have been embedded in the white marble to provide different natural and geometric motifs. Arabesque of Quranic verses have been written in a unique way. Part of UNESCO World Heritage site (since 1983). Article link: Dirty socks, algae behind Taj Mahal discolouration, ASI tells Supreme Court India to face impact of U.S. decision on Iran Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – International Relations and Economy In News: U.S. President Donald Trump decides to pull out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) on Iran. Impacts of sanctions on India: Iran is India’s third biggest supplier (after Iraq and Saudi Arabia) of crude oil, and any increase in prices will hit both inflation levels and the rupee. New U.S. sanctions could slow or even bring India’s plans to develop Shahid Beheshti Port in Chabahar to halt. Plans for International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) gathered momentum after the JCPOA was signed in 2015 and sanctions on Iran were lifted. But with new sanctions INSTC plans may slow down. On 9 June 2017, at a summit in Astana, India and Pakistan officially joined SCO as full-fledged members. China is considering inducting Iran into the eight-member Eurasian security organisation. If the proposal is accepted, India will become a member of a bloc that will be seen as anti-American. For more details on SCO – click this link - https://iasbaba.com/2016/06/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-11th-june-2016/ Key Pointers: India is a founder member of the 18-year-old International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) that starts from Iran and aims to cut right across Central Asia to Russia over a 7,200-km multi-mode network. For more details on INSTC – click this link - https://iasbaba.com/2016/10/iasbabas-daily-current-affairs-25th-october-2016/ Article link: India to face impact of U.S. decision on Iran - NATIONAL - The Hindu (MAINS FOCUS) INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General Studies 2: India and its neighbourhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests U.S. withdrawal from Iran nuclear deal: Reason behind and Consequences In news: President Donald Trump recently decided to unilaterally pull the U.S. out of the Iran nuclear deal and to re-imposing nuclear sanctions against that country. It is a huge setback to multilateral diplomacy and the rules-based international order. Iran nuclear deal (The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action): The agreement, signed in 2015 by Iran with the five permanent members of the UN Security Council, Germany and the EU, curtailed its nuclear programme in return for withdrawing economic sanctions. It was reached after 18 months of painful negotiations. Under the deal, most of Iran’s enriched uranium was shipped out of the country, a heavy water facility was rendered inoperable and the operational nuclear facilities were brought under international inspection. Reason behind the decision: Mr. Trump’s decision is not about Iran acquiring nuclear weapons. If it was the actual concern, it would have supported a deal that closes the path towards nuclear weapons for Iran. Instead, the bigger concern for Mr. Trump as well as Washington’s closest allies in West Asia — Israel and Saudi Arabia — is Iran’s re-accommodation in the global economic mainstream. They fear that if Iran’s economic profile rises, it will embolden it to increase its regional presence, posing a strategic threat to the interests of the U.S.-Saudi-Israel axis. Iran's response: Iranian President Hassan Rouhani declared that his government remains committed to a nuclear deal with world powers, despite the US decision to withdraw, but is also ready to resume uranium enrichment should the new sanctions against Iran become effective. Undoubtedly, the US exit from the nuclear deal comes as a great defeat for Rouhani against the Iranian hardliners who warned him against diplomacy with the Americans. Fallout: In Iran, the moderate government of President Hassan Rouhani went ahead with the deal despite strong opposition from hardliners. Mr. Trump has wrecked all the efforts, despite numerous reports, including from American intelligence agencies, that Iran is 100% compliant with the terms of the agreement. The U.S. action doesn’t necessarily trigger an immediate collapse of the agreement. For now, Europe, Russia and China remain committed to it. But the challenges will emerge, not only for Europe but also for other nations with strong trade ties with Iran, including India, once American sanctions are in place. Trump’s decision to reinstate US nuclear-related sanctions against Iran could cripple the Iranian economy and most probably create new urban riots around the country. But, worsening domestic problems in Iran could spell widespread geo-political trouble for the whole region. Trump’s decision could make a war scenario much more likely, unless there is a regime change in Iran, which is very unlikely. For India: The reintroduction of sanctions against Iran is bad news. Iran is now India’s third largest source of oil. Apart from supply disruptions, a further surge in crude prices will worsen India’s current account imbalance and fuel inflation, at a time when the economy is just beginning to show signs of returning to a high growth trajectory. For global corporations too, there will be considerable pain. For example, there are said to be around 200 French companies operating in Iran and some like Renault have plants there. They will now have a 90-day period to wind down operations. India’s Chabahar port project in Iran, which was just showing signs of moving forward, could be in trouble. Way ahead: The U.S. stands isolated in its decision. Europe and other powers (UN permanent members) should stick together to respect the mandate of an international agreement. Any sanctions imposed by U.S. will hurt the global economy and may force Iran to stock nuclear weapons, further complicating the situation. Thus, the need of the hour is to standby with the agreement even after the U.S. has withdrawn. Connecting the dots: The U.S. has unilaterally decided to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal. Discuss the reason behind. Also, analyse the consequences of such a decision and how it would impact India. INTERNATIONAL TOPIC:General Studies 2: India and its neighbourhood- relations. Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests Between the Elephant and the Dragon Introduction: Iran, one of the major exporters of oil and natural gas to India and global markets will have a tough time in exporting its natural resources. What are the possible impacts of US’s decision to reinstate sanctions on Iran? Will it impact India’s trade relations with Iran? Experts say sanctions on Iran will not have much impact on India’s trade relations with Iran. However, what will impact India is the upward movement in international crude prices in the coming days, as the sanctions raise concerns that the global supply of oil will be squeezed. If the European Union (EU) were to continue status quo and not re-impose sanctions, Iranian supplies to India will continue unhindered. India pays its third largest oil supplier (Iran after Iraq and Saudi Arabia) in Euros using European banking channels and unless these are blocked, imports will continue. Major concern for India: China’s role in development of the Chabahar port Iran is attempting to woo Chinese investment in Chabahar. Development of Chabahar port is often projected as India’s pet project (and a response to Gwadar in Pakistan) Iran’s attempt to invite Chinese investment is perceived as an attempt to dilute Indian influence. Key shifts: For Iran, Chabahar means business. Post-sanctions, the development of the Chabahar port reflects Iranian quest for multilateralism, and China by default is an important player in the Iranian scheme of things. Given the negative ties between US and Iran, Iran will push to maintain cordial relationship with a rising power like China. China and Iran China is one of the few countries which never severed its ties with Iran. China had played a crucial role in bringing Iran to the diplomatic table to negotiate the P5+1 nuclear deal. China was also one of the countries that maintained steady trade relations with Iran even during the sanctions era. Iran may eye for further participation in China’s connectivity projects. A large chunk of China-Iran trade is petroleum-based products. China is the largest importer of Iranian oil. Over the years, China has emerged as Iran's leading trade partner. Post-sanctions, Chinese President, Xi Jinping was the first head of state to visit Iran, in January 2016. Both countries decided to increase their bilateral trade to $600 billion in the coming decade. Iran, with its massive infrastructural needs, sees China as its most valued partner and Beijing has been investing in Iran in crucial sectors like railways. China International Trust and Investment Corporation (CITIC), a state owned investment wing has extended $10 billion credit line to Tehran. Besides, China Development Bank has also signed a memorandum of understanding with the Iranian government worth around $15 billion. Chinese investments in Iran are part and parcel of its ambitious $1 trillion Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Iran also perceives the BRI as a project that would make it an indispensable transit hub for countries like China, India and Russia and an effective antidote to the U.S. sanctions. In addition to their economic partnership, China and Iran share substantial defence cooperation with each other. After the 1979 revolution, Tehran has been dependent on Beijing for meeting its defence requirements. China, being permanent member of the Security Council with veto power, could be of great strategic help for Iran when it comes to vetoing any proposal against Iran in the United Nations. A parallel, China-dominated global order suits Iran more than the U.S.-centric world order. India’s policy options: This strong relationship between Tehran and Beijing makes it pertinent for New Delhi to navigate its interests in the region accordingly. To assume that Iran would help India counter Chinese influence in the region might be wishful thinking. India needs to resist the temptation of falling prey to “excessive securitisation” in the case of Chabahar agreement in particular and India-Iran relations in general. The way ahead for India: For India, to be an influential player in the region, economics and politics should complement and not substitute each other. India will have to capitalise upon the existing synergies. India should offer favourable terms of trade in the region vis-à-vis China. To consolidate its strategic depth in the region, India should focus on initiatives like frequent joint naval exercises in the Persian Gulf. India should adopt a nuanced approach towards Chinese investment in Iran, especially now when Iran’s reliance upon China is likely to grow (with Trump’s decision to pull out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)). India might also consider option of joint cooperation with China in Chabahar project. Some form of Chinese participation in the Chabahar project would be helpful for the future of the project, especially if the terms and conditions are clearly specified. Just like how India and China are exploring joint economic projects in Afghanistan; they can also extend this engagement to the Chabahar. Connecting the dots: The U.S. has unilaterally decided to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal. Discuss the reason behind. Also, analyse the consequences of such a decision and how it would impact India. (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Which among the following acquisition is the largest ever Indian acquisition by a foreign firm, which was in news recently? Walmart-Flipkart deal Amazon-Flipkart deal Vodafone- Hutchison deal Alibaba-Jio deal Q.2) Consider the following statements: The security market of India is regulated by SEBI. SEBI regulates Mergers and Acquisitions transactions involving entities listed on recognised stock exchanges in India. Which of the above statements is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 None Q.3) The world’s first oldest rock was discovered in? Singhbhum, Odisha Kendujhar, Odisha Jack Hill, Australia Both a and b Q.4) Consider the following statements with reference to river Ganga: The municipal sewage accounts for 20% of the pollution load. The industrial pollutants (volume wise) accounts for about 80%. The river basin spreads across 5 states. Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 and 2 only 3 only 1, 2 and 3 None Q.5) Which among the following are part of major left-bank tributaries of river Ganga? Gomti Ghaghara Damodar Kosi Yamuna Choose the correct code from the following 3 and 5 1, 2 and 3 1, 2 and 4 1, 2, 3 and 4 Q.6) Which of the statements given below is/are correct? National Ganga Council is under chairmanship of Hon’ble Prime Minister of India. Empowered Task Force (ETF) on river Ganga under chairmanship of Hon’ble Union Minister of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. Choose the correct code from the following 1 only 2 only Both None Q.7) Consider the following statements India is a founder member of International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) India was formally admitted as member in Shanghai Cooperation Organisation last year Which of the statements given above is/are correct? 1 only 2 only Both 1 and 2 None MUST READ Drowning in dust The Hindu Focus on building trust The Hindu Between the elephant and the dragon The Hindu Five ways to double farmers' income Business Line
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
Please find below the Preparation Strategy of our ILP Student Apurva Pandey, Rank 39 and General Studies and Essay Answer Copies She was also a regular follower of TLP Answer writing initiative of IASbaba. Apurva Pandey is/was better known as 'Veracity' and here she also discusses about the importance of strong peer group in the likes of @TheCredibleHulk, @Abhijit(ABG), @Heidi and @Toadsage Hello friends, My name is Apurva Pandey and I have secured AIR 39 in UPSC Civil Service Examination 2017. I live in Haldwani, the gateway to the hills of Kumaon, far away from the bustling lanes of ORN and Mukharjee Nagar, both literally and figuratively. I would have never thought of staying here and preparing for the civil services examination but for the great online revolution in this field spearheaded by the likes of IASBaba. Needless to say that today, I stand grateful and indebted to IASbaba for my success in UPSC CSE 2017. From excitedly reading and commenting on topper strategies on the internet to writing one myself, it has indeed been a transformative couple of years for me. But today, as I sit down to write my strategy I realise how daunting a task this can be. I remember being naive and taking every word a topper said very seriously, comparing myself to them, then getting upset over it and finally spending the rest of the day wondering if I will ever make it. It was only after sometime that I realised that each one of us is unique and will thus experience a unique journey. So if you are reading this and feel that your journey is not quite the same as mine, then do not get flustered. Have faith in yourself, pick up parts that you think might work for you and forget about the rest as you get back to studying. :) Association with IASBaba: When I first decided to prepare for the civil services examination, I was a third year B. Tech student, 100% sure of a bleak future in engineering. I first came across IASbaba sometime in 2015 when they were also beginning, just like I was. I was quick to start following their initiatives, especially TLP. The first answer I ever wrote was on TLP, and surprisingly enough, the review that I got from Baba was not half as bad as I had expected. That was when I decided to stop wondering whether I have it in me or not, and just get to business. Even though I couldn't take much time out for studying while in college, I tried to write on TLP at every possible opportunity. I would eagerly await reviews and was lucky enough to find a community of fellow aspirants from whom I learned a whole lot. Special mentions would be @TheCredibleHulk, @Abhijit(ABG), @Heidi and @Toadsage. In fact @TheCredibleHulk pretty much became a mentor to me and I will never be able to thank him enough for his kindness and wisdom that completely turned the course of my life. I still remember the first time my answer was chosen best answer on TLP. I was crazy happy, it was a great boost to my confidence and I have no qualms in saying that the kind of response I got on TLP helped me become more sure about myself, my strategy and my decision to prepare from my hometown. Other initiatives of IASBaba that I participated in were the 60 day plan, ILP-2016 & PIB summaries , and each helped me inch closer towards my dream in some way or the other. But what I am most grateful to IASBaba for, is for holding my hand and showing me the way when I was absolutely clueless, for being my mentor at the very start of my journey, for every pat on the back and every honest correction. Thank you for everything IASBaba. I would credit you completely for my transformation from a clueless girl who could never write an answer in 250 words to a more confident one who managed to complete all GS papers well within time in Mains 2017! Background: I did my bachelors in mechanical engineering from Govind Ballabh Pant University of Agriculture & Technology and graduated in 2016. Since I was determined about not giving more than 3 serious attempts in this exam, I decided to appear in 2016 itself for getting to know the exam better, since I was anyway going to waste 3 attempts. It was of course a disaster given my level of preparation but gave me a scare that kept pushing me everytime I got complacent. So I got back home from college and spent the next one year preparing religiously for CSE 2017, and fortunately got through this time. :) Strategy: Since marks are not out yet, I am not sure of what worked exactly. Nevertheless, here is my strategy and I hope it can be of help. Prelims: I hope I am not alone in thinking that prelims is the most difficult stage in CSE. I am not even exaggerating when I say that ,for me, the best part about making it to the list is not having to sit for prelims again. I am sure I scored only enough to get me past the cutoff, yet my two cents on preparation for prelims is as follows. Be thourogh with the basic books. Everybody knows the important NCERTs, everybody knows about Lakshmikant and spectrum. Point is doing these books again and again till you gain an absolute mastery on the static part. Mock tests. The importance of mock tests has been highlighted time and again by many. Solve as many mock tests as possible, and revise till you feel confident. While solving mocks, also develop your personal strategy for dealing with prelims. Try and infer what kind of question paper makes you feel confident enough to go 80+ in attempts or what kind of question paper demands you to be conservative. Identify your strong areas and weaknesses and schedule your study for the last two months accordingly. Pick up trends. I cannot highlight enough the importance of picking up trends. Go through previous year papers to gauge what areas are trending and require special attention. For instance, questions from Buddhism & Jainism figure in the paper almost every year, questions on national parks/wildlife sanctuaries, maps etc are common. So pick up these trends and work accordingly. This exercise is especially helpful during the last two months. While the rest of the year can be devoted to holistic coverage, in the last two months before prelims, you have to be selective and strategise your study smartly. Current affairs. You can prepare you own notes out of newspapers or go through compilations made available by different institutes. Whatever you do, trust you source and revise as much as possible. I personally found compilations very helpful in this regard. Finally, do not let your test marks affect you any more than pushing you to work harder. Stress takes away confidence, and confidence is key to doing well in prelims. So learn from tests and move on. Trust me, most people who make it to the list have their bad days where they don't score well in mocks. Let mistakes be learnings and not distractions. Grey areas: Art and culture: I read this part from NCERT Fine arts, Ancient history and selective reading of Nitin Singhania's book on Art and culture. Science and Technology: Relied mostly on Current affairs compilations from IASbaba. Being a PCMB student in plus two, I did not find it necessary to check out the few prelims-relevant chapters in NCERTs of Biology and Chemistry. Environment: Selective reading of Shankar IAS book, since there's a lot there that is not quite necessary in my opinion. To figure out how to read selectively, one must go through previous year question papers, detect the pattern and use it to extract prelims-relevant information from these bulky books. I also relied on current affairs compilations for this part. Mains: I feel more confident sharing my strategy for mains as I completely loved this stage. However, in my opinion, one has to strike a careful balance of several factors to score well in mains. Since marks are not out, I think it's only fair to give a general strategy for GS than elaborating on each paper separately. 1. Content: Your years of hardwork is pointless unless you can show it to the examiner on paper. Therefore, I think our content should be such so that the examiner is convinced that we have studied hard and know stuff. For this we must quote reports and committees, put in data, cite examples, refer to current developments etc. Of course one cannot read all reports and learn all kinds of data. Here again lies the importance of picking up trends. For instance, cyber security, subsidies, mob violence, river interlinking, privacy etc were really trending before mains. I was expecting questions on these and so had certain facts from reports/ committee recommendations jotted on a piece of paper. I did not read entire reports, simply googled and found facts & recommendations that were simple enough for me to remember. Then apart from current hot-topics, one must also keep an eye for all-time hot topics. These include topics like climate change, inclusive growth, Indo-China relations, Panchayati Raj, agriculture etc. You can ready some data, recommendations, committees, and innovations in these too. In fact, if time permits, it is best to go through all topics in the syllabus and jot down data on each one of them in not more than half a sheet. Revise it before the exam, and impress the examiner with the apparent wide range of your knowledge. However, all this only after you have covered your basic books and are doing your newspapers properly. Quoting data & committee recommendations cannot compensate for lack of analysis. There is no shortcut or trick to bettering your analytical skills and the only way is hard work and sincere study.The aforementioned is only to make more attractive what you have, the foundation lies in focused study and not in quick google searches. 2. Presentation: The examiner checks several copies a day and we must try our best to ensure that our answer script stands out. If our content is great then there is no way it will not stand out, but good presentation makes this content more readable, catchy and emphatic, thus directly impacting the examiner's impression of us. A few things that can be done to better presentation are: 1. Presentation a) Introduction and Conclusion b) Break down the answer in parts if the question is in parts. c) Use of heading/subheading for better organisation and visibility of content d) Use of flow charts, diagrams, maps for greater clarity. It also helps break monotony and makes the copy interesting to the examiner. e) Underlining important points, for eg any committee or report name that you may have mentioned f) Simplicity in answering. Language should be simple, not very flowery or complicated. If the examiner has to put in extra effort to understand your answer, it does not bode well for your marks. g) Concluding answer on a positive note, maybe with some kind of solution. For instance, I ended many of my answers with 'Way forward', listing few good solutions or recommendations. h) You must also try to begin your Essay on an interesting note, with some quote or story or poetry so as to capture the interest of the examiner at the very outset. i) Practise. All the points mentioned above cannot be implemented in the actual exam without prior practice. Remember, the more we sweat in practice, the less we bleed in war. 2. Time management: I, for one, struggled a lot with time management. When I first started writing full length tests post-prelims, I could only do around 14-15 questions in 3 hours. Then I starting solving questions on hour-basis, setting my target to 6 per hour. I practised this way one hour every day, while solving full lengths weekly. I also used flowcharts and wrote point wise to better the situation. My speed improved considerably by the time mains arrived, although I still ended up leaving 35 marks worth in Optional paper 1 due to speed issues. 3. Optional: It is important to devote to your optional as much time as possible. Choice of optional must be based on how much the syllabus interests you. If you are sure that you enjoy your optional enough to spend lots of time on it, then nothing else should matter. I found PSIR interesting, and I really felt that I could manage it on my own so I chose it without any second thoughts. Here again, answer writing is important. I joined Shubhra Ranjan mam's online test series for the same. I also purchased her notes since many toppers had recommended that, but for me reading directly from notes did not help gain the kind of insight and confidence that I thought I needed. So I purchased all the recommended texts for various parts of the syllabus and read them religiously. Reading these texts not only gave me a better understanding of the subject, but also helped me understand how exactly should a student of political science write. For PSIR, I read an excellent strategy article by Ananya Das ma'am that really helped me a lot. I would advise all those who have this optional to go through it at least once. Finally, Whatever you do, never lose hope. Because no matter how well prepared they are, nobody is absolutely sure of their selection. Not one time during the course of my preparation, did I think I would get a rank as good as 39. I was alsways full of self doubt and fear, but yes, I never stopped studying. I just thought that study never really goes waste and if not here then somewhere else, my learning will help me make a mark.So if you feel low, or if you feel that you are falling behind, then remember that those who get selected also face similar fears. More often than not, this fear pushes us to work hard and so your fear is not entirely a bad thing. Of course, luck does have a major role to play. But for your luck to work, you need to be well past a certain threshold. We must focus our energies on working hard and reaching that threshold, so that luck, if any, can get to play its role. This exam is a year long process in itself, and so please don't overwhelm yourself with its preparation. Take breaks, watch movies, talk to people who make you feel better, just don't stop living your life. It is after all just another exam in the great series of exams that life is. I wish all of you good luck and a very happy, fulfilling journey. Download - Essay_Apurva_Pandey_39 Esssay Topic: "The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others" Download - GS Answers_Apurva_Pandey_39 Thank you Apurva Pandey (Veracity) IASbaba's Toppers from CSE-2017– Click Here
Securing India’s Energy Needs Archives TOPIC: General Studies 2: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests General Studies 3: Infrastructure: Energy In News: Marking the growing prominence of India in the global energy map, the 16th International Energy Forum Ministerial (IEF16) is being hosted by India at New Delhi. International Energy Forum (IEF) Aims to foster greater mutual understanding and awareness of common energy interests among its members Its 72 member countries are signatories to the IEF Charter, which outlines the framework of the global energy dialogue through this inter-governmental arrangement. Apart from them, 20 countries are also participating in this meeting as special invitees. Covering six continents and accounting for around 90 per cent of global supply and demand for oil and gas, the IEF is unique in that it comprises not only consuming and producing countries of the IEA and OPEC, but also Transit States and major players outside of their memberships, including Argentina, China, India, Mexico, Russia and South Africa. Theme: "The Future of Global Energy Security - Transition, Technology, Trade and Investment" India’s Energy Needs: Prime Minister Modi Called for A mutually supportive relationship between producers and consumers Optimal use of the neutral platform of the IEF to build a global consensus on ‘responsible pricing’, that serves the mutual interests of both producers and consumers Said Country’s refineries are on track to meet the ambitious target to produce clean and affordable fuel by April 2020 India’s energy consumption will grow 4.5 percent every year for the next 25 years. There is a need for a more transparent and flexible market for the oil and gas sectors. India imports 80 percent of its oil needs and is the third largest oil consumer in the entire world. The efforts at artificially distorting oil prices were self-destructing and affected developing countries like India. Thus, it is in the interest of oil producers that consuming markets grow. India’s energy vision comprises of four pillars – Energy access Energy efficiency Energy sustainability Energy security India needs to – Establish an integrated planning process that factors in the implications of decisions concerning fossil fuels on renewables and vice versa, and develop a policy mindset that enables the fulfillment of short-term objectives without compromising longer-term goals. Correct the imbalances in the energy value chain, to minimize avoidable losses and create a unified energy market. Redesign and restructure the institutions of energy governance to enable and facilitate holistic energy planning and an integrated energy market. As a first step in that direction, the government should consider legislating an omnibus “energy responsibility and security act”. This will raise public awareness on the interconnections between the various components of energy and between energy and the rest of the economy. Cities are the reasons for surging energy demand and air pollution. The government should devolve the energy administration of cities to an autonomous and constitutionally safeguarded “city energy ombudsman”. These ombudsmen should be empowered to tackle issues related to energy efficiency, demand conservation, waste management, urban redesign and transportation and to develop and implement focused, small-scale and distributed solutions. There is a need to invest in supportive infrastructure, regulations, skills and innovation. While CNG buses have been introduced in various cities, the only way for a totally emissions-free public transport is by going all electric. Energy security would mean our ability to manufacture the full value chain in solar panels far more than getting access to equity oil or gas anywhere in the world. The sooner we match China's capacities in producing solar panels and storage batteries for electric cars, we will be better placed in handling our energy security in the years to come. Niti Aayog must carry out a detailed study on what will be required to shift from the incumbent fossil fuel energy system to a “clean energy” system. Refer Mindmap: Link 1 + Link 2
IASbaba's Daily Current Affairs (Prelims + Mains Focus)- 9th May 2018 Archives (PRELIMS+MAINS FOCUS) Animal-free testing for drugs Part of: GS Prelims and Mains II and III – Role of CSO/NGOs; Environment and Biodiversity In News: Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) approves modern animal-free testing for drugs. IPC replaces the pyrogen test and the abnormal toxicity test carried out on animals with tests that can be done in test tubes. New testing methodology – IPC suggests bacterial endotoxin test or a monocyte activation test which can be carried out in test tubes. (Animal-free testing) Why this decision? IPC’s decision is a step towards animal safety – it would spare animals from suffering due to drug experiments. Role of NGO/CSO - People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has been pushing for doing away with the cruel methods of testing on animals Pic link: http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/article23815683.ece/alternates/FREE_660/guinea%20pigcol About: Pyrogen test The pyrogen test is carried out to check impurity or substance that can cause adverse side-effects. For the test, the drug is injected into a rabbit and the animal is closely observed for feverish symptoms. Abnormal toxicity test The abnormal toxicity test is carried out to check potential hazardous biological contamination in vaccine formulations. Important Value Additions: About Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) IPC is an Autonomous Institution of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. IPC is created to set standards of drugs in the country. Its basic function is to update regularly the standards of drugs commonly required for treatment of diseases prevailing in this region. It further promotes rational use of generic medicines by publishing National Formulary of India. Article link: Commission approves modern animal-free testing for drugs - The Hindu UN Economic and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific 2018 Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III – Economy and World Affairs; International Organizations In News: Economic and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific 2018 – is the latest flagship publication of the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (ESCAP). UN report on the Asia-Pacific region has urged – regional powers to invest in inclusive and sustainable growth regional countries to take advantage of high growth rate and share the benefits with the national society The report described South and Southwest Asia as the fastest growing sub-region of the Asia-Pacific region and urged the countries to increase social spending. For less developed countries, the role of external sources of finance, such as official development assistance, South-South cooperation, and global development partnerships... remains critical. The report was launched at the Indian Council for Research in International Economic Relations (ICRIER) Important Value Additions: The Economic and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific 2018 contains an examination of how Governments of countries in the Asia-Pacific region could increase domestic public financial resources and leverage private capital to strengthen their long-term economic prospects. Article link: UN report for social inclusion Cyclone Mora and Cyclone Ockhi Part of: GS Prelims and Mains III - Disaster and disaster management. In News: Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman highlighted the Navy’s responses to numerous crisis situations around the IOR in the last year (esp. during Cyclone Mora and Ockhi). Important Value Additions: Cyclone Mora Mora was a strong tropical cyclone that caused widespread impacts by devastation and severe flooding across Sri Lanka, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Bangladesh, Myanmar and Northeast India in May 2017. Mora developed from an area of low pressure over the southeastern Bay of Bengal. Cyclone Ockhi Cyclone Ockhi was named by Bangladesh after the Bengali word for "eye" and is considered to be the most intense cyclone to transverse the Arabian Sea since 2015's Cyclone Megh that affected Oman, Somalia and Yemen, killing 18 people. Originating near Sri Lanka over the Bay of Bengal on November 29, Cyclone Ockhi moved over the Arabian Sea via Kanyakumari, triggering heavy rains and high speed wind. Do you know? According to weather reports and experts, the coastal region of Bangladesh is prone to storm surges and that the topography along with high population density has earlier resulted in eight out of the top ten 'deadliest' cyclones to originate in the Bay of Bengal. Frequency of the cyclones is lower in Arabian sea when compared to Bay of Bengal Bay of Bengal being a closed and a smaller water body, it has higher surface temperature compared to Arabian sea. North Western region of Pacific ocean has the highest proportion of global tropical cyclones. These cyclones which originate in the Pacific ocean start moving towards south western direction and finally reach Bay of Bengal. But by the time they reach, they almost lose their energy and only remnants of cyclones reach Bay of Bengal. Similarly the cyclones originated in Bay of Bengal reach Arabian sea but only remnants of cyclones after shedding their energy while traversing over the peninsular landmass. (MAINS FOCUS) NATIONAL/SECURITY TOPIC:General Studies 3: North East Issues – Nagaland Issue Role of external state and non-state actors in creating challenges to internal security. Challenges to internal security through communication networks Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism. Forging peace in Nagaland Important Note: For those who are not aware of Nagaland issue, IASbaba recommends you to read our old article - NAGALAND ISSUE: FULL STORY After reading above article, one should be aware of the following – Why Nagaland issue originated? Basic idea of Naga National Council (NNC), Naga Federal Government (NFG) and Naga Federal Army (NFA) Failure of 1967 Peace Mission 1975 Shillong Accord Thuingaleng Muivah and group refuses to accept Shillong Accord – Formation of National Socialist Council of Nagaland in 1980 1988 Split - National Socialist Council of Nagaland split into NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) NSCN (IM) and NSCN (K) 1997 ceasefire agreement with NSCN (IM) Naga Framework Agreement, 2015 Key Pointers from Editorial: We know that, on Aug 3, 2015, Framework Agreement was signed between Union government and the National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah), or NSCN-IM. Idea of a pan-Naga Hoho (a proposed statutory body as part of the Framework Agreement) that will enjoy independent executive and budgetary powers to look after the welfare of Naga inhabited areas outside Nagaland – has raised expectations among the Naga people but also apprehension in neighbouring Assam, Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur. Neighbouring states that have been created after due consideration of a number of factors and their geographical boundaries clearly mapped out can hardly be expected to take kindly to any attempt at rearranging those boundaries. The editorial deals with few questions – Why should National Socialist Council of Nagalim (Isak-Muivah) headed by a Tangkhul Naga decide the future of the Nagas of Nagaland vide the Framework Agreement? Why large sections of the population have no say? So what democracy are they talking about? Why NSCN-IM? NSCN-IM had, for several decades, used the gun to silence its detractors, and indulged in large-scale extortion and imposed its diktat on the Nagas. It has also tried to sabotage platforms such as the Forum for Naga Reconciliation for alternative discourses on the peace process. But to be fair to the NSCN-IM, its leaders have remained steadfast to the goal of wresting an “honourable settlement” for the Naga people from the Government of India. Moreover, even today the tribes of this region are not influenced by the “Indian” culture. They are proud inheritors of a unique culture. The Nagas contend that they never signed the Instrument of Accession to India (which the Khasi chieftains of present-day Meghalaya and the Maharajahs of Manipur and Tripura did) and hence cannot be made prisoners to a Constitution they never had a hand in crafting. Today it is those in Naga civil society and political leaders who make visits to Delhi to prevail upon the ‘Indian’ establishment to take a more pragmatic view of the peace deal. The way ahead: Nagas must admit that they have journeyed a long way with the rest of India. Both have developed a comfort level with each other. Therefore, it is time to shed political egos and move on keeping in mind the best interests of the next generation of aspirational Nagas. A comprehensive plan with flexibility that is prepared on the ground in broad consultation with stakeholders for development of the region is the need of the hour. It is understandable that without significantly developing all the states in the Northeast, realising the vision of the Act East policy from all dimensions remain to be a difficult proposition. There is a need to comprehensively engage India’s Northeast with the strategic community based in New Delhi and to transform the NER as a gateway for trade and commerce with ASEAN countries. For any meaningful outcome, all factions of the undergrounds even including overgrounds, shall have to be involved, otherwise piecemeal peace/dialogue will not bring a satisfactory political solution. A lasting solution lies in more autonomy to the state, genuine economic development, accelerated infrastructural development, new trade routes, less Central funds and a little bit of pressure on militant groups to accept the peace proposal. Sincerity on the part of political and insurgent leadership alone can bring ‘peace to the land of the exhilarating Nagas’. Connecting the dots: The North East states require economic freedom along with political freedom to truly explore their development options. Comment. Discuss the reasons behind the ongoing crisis in Nagaland. Why does North East India remain a theatre of political crisis even after 70 years of independence? Analyse. NATIONAL TOPIC:General Studies 3: Infrastructure: Energy Indian Economy and issues relating to planning, mobilization of resources, growth, development and employment. Rural Electrification: Gap between accessibility and adoption Introduction: The government has recently announced the electrification of all inhabited census villages. A village is considered electrified if it possesses basic electrical infrastructure and 10% of its homes have access to power. However, nearly one-fifth of India’s rural households (around 31 million) still remain in acute darkness. The government is committed to reaching these households through the Saubhagya scheme by 31 December 2018—a deadline that has been moved up from 31 March 2019. The project’s ambition is praiseworthy. Electrification schemes: Like the previous Rajiv Gandhi Grameen Vidyutikaran Yojana (RGGVY), and the ongoing Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana (DDUGJY) and Saubhagya schemes have focused on establishing village electricity infrastructure. DDUGJY provided electricity access to the remaining 18,452 inhabited villages. There are issues with these schemes- Confusion over data regarding the number of households in the country. Inconsistencies in the data put out by state electricity discoms. Lack of focus on supply-side barriers. Gap between electricity accessibility and adoption: The rapid pace of rural electrification has clearly not been matched by adoption at the household level. According to a 2015 World Bank study, Power For All: Electricity Access Challenge In India, “even where electricity service has been locally available, many village households choose not to adopt a connection”. For instance, states like Tripura and Sikkim, despite almost universal access, have among the lowest consumption rates. Reasons behind: Poor power reliability: India faces a terrible power reliability situation. Load shedding and power outages are frequent enough to make the term a mere technicality. A study shows that only six states had, on average, 24-hour power supply in rural areas as of December 2017. This lack of reliability often discourages households from adopting electricity, which disincentivises discoms, thus undermining investment in rural electrification. This makes power supply even more unreliable, perpetuating a vicious cycle. Challenges faced by Discoms: Discoms face multiple challenges, ranging from- Revenue losses due to high costs of power procurement Power theft and Irregularity Delay in disbursement of state subsidies assured to domestic and agriculture consumers. The lack of political will across governments to rationalize tariffs and slash these subsidies is a long-running problem. UDAY Yojana: The government’s attempt to address discoms’ financial stress via the Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana (Uday), rolled out in 2015, is the latest in a long line of government bailouts. It hasn’t been more successful than previous attempts. The continued stress has negative consequences on the demand side in the form of reduced investment in network modernization, upgradation of transformers and unreliable power supply. Summary: The economic logic suggests that the rural households in areas with poor power reliability adopting grid electricity connection will not adopt electricity in first place. They have to pay a monthly fixed minimum charge irrespective of brownouts and blackouts. Meanwhile, poor reliability forces them to also use traditional fuels, like kerosene and fuelwood, for lighting and cooking purposes. In effect, these households end up paying for two power sources. This affects rural households’ decision making when it comes to electricity adoption. Conclusion: While India has made remarkable progress in bringing electricity to every village, the achievement on this front still faces challenges. There’s still a long way to go for lowering barriers to adoption, easing discoms’ financial stress and incentivising rural adoption. Connecting the dots: India has made remarkable progress in bringing electricity to every village. Still much remains to be done. The biggest challenge in this regard is lack of adoption of electricity at household level in rural areas. Analyse. Also read: Saubhagya Scheme: Critical analysis (TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE) Model questions: (You can now post your answers in comment section) Q.1) Which among the following institution recently approved modern animal-free testing for drugs replacing the pyrogen test and the abnormal toxicity test carried out on animals? Indian Drugs Manufacturers' Association (IDMA) Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) Central Drugs Standard Control Organization Q.2) Economic and Social Survey of Asia and the Pacific 2018 is a flagship report published by WB IMF WEF UN Q.3) What is the name of the tropical cyclone that made landfall in Bangladesh recently? Cyclone Mora Cyclone Phaline Cyclone Tora Cyclone Humsa Q.4) The frequency of the cyclones is lower in Arabian sea when compared to Bay of Bengal. This is because Arabian sea surface temperature is higher compared to that of Bay of Bengal. Bay of Bengal receives the remnants of the typhoons originated in Northwestern Pacific ocean. Arabian sea receives the remnants of cyclones from Bay of Bengal. Choose the correct code from the following 1 and 2 only 1 and 3 only 2 and 3 only 1, 2 and 3 MUST READ Reviving neighborhood The Hindu There is a counting threat from Islamist terrorists The Hindu When code is law Indian Express The bane of patronage-based governance Business Line
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
